BRIDGES Fall 2023 by Holly Wright

FALL 2023

NURSING EDUCATION IMPACT:

UM-FLINT'S PARADIGMSHIFTING APPROACH

NEW IN COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

FOUR PROGRAMS INCREASE OPPORTUNITIES

UNIV

ERSIT

Y OF MICH

FLINT

F L I N T, D AV I D

M. FRE

NCH, D

COLL

MICHIG

EGE

IGAN

ean

March To t h e

Class

of 195

1 7, 1 9 5

Two ye ars ag o almo r, s o m st to a e w h a t hesit office day th ant, at in Roo e first m the do ones o 1 00 of of con or of t f you b the Cu tinuin he imp egan t r t g i c y e rovise o o ur col Buildi of sur d Flin lege w ng to prise a t Colle ask wh ork in nd ple ge progra F a a t l i s t n u he pro t. I we re wit ms of spects h whic ll rem study ember h man were would y of yo the ex b e ava pressi u gree ilable ons t e i d the n Sept But yo news t ember u had h printe i a n t y our ch to tak d cata e a gre osen f logue ields. at dea even p of the l roper o C n o llege, f a i a t p h p . licatio no cla T to you h e r e was ss sch n blan r cred not ye edule, ks for it for t a new ve no list admis all tim sion. I nture, of fac e that u l t y, n t w y h ou did ish it at you early d ot to be r not sh accept ays, an ecorde y at th ed in g d that d fulnes e o h u o ere y n d hum ou hav certai s to m or the nties o e appl any ta i nc o nv ied yo f sks of t h is urselv enienc creati es wit es of o ng a li h spir ur ving c i t a ollege Yo u a n nd res . d your ourceclass w Colleg ill eve e r f a be qui c u partic l t y te able have a ular in specia to mat terest l bond specia c h . We and w l senti that n will fo i l l welc ment. o succ llow y ome y eeding our ca ou bac reers w k in fu ith ture y ears w It is m ith a v y hope on wh ery that y at you o h u a will lo ve acc certai ok bac ompli n resp shed h k with onsibi ere an pleasu lity fo d will re and r the C feel bo satisfa ollege th a fo ction y o u h ndnes Yo u h a ave he s and a lped t ve my o brin sincer g into est go being. od wis hes. appea

D av id

M. Fre

nch

A Message from the Executive Director of Alumni Relations

New Beginnings... Looking Ahead

“We

are here to indicate our mutual interest in an educational experiment. The project is a co-operative one, involving the facilities of the Flint schools and the University of Michigan, the Mott Foundation, and the community. In a larger sense, however, it may be looked upon as a test of the ability of a state institution of higher education, a public school system, a private foundation, and a city to work together in providing increased educational opportunities for our citizens.” ~ Remarks by U-M President Alexander G. Ruthven on occasion of the celebration of the initiation of the Michigan University Extension in Flint, November 2, 1944. [SOURCE: The Beginnings of the University of Michigan-Flint, 1944-1974. Genesee Historical Collections Center.]

Alexander G. Ruthven, U-M President 1929-1951. Ruthven gave a speech to alumni in 1946 in which he expressed a need to grow beyond the Central Campus. Mike Gorman heard it and interpreted it to C. S. Mott. In his 1963 memoir, "Naturalist in Two Worlds", Ruthven clarified his views on expansion.

With the passing of time, I have become more familiar with our institution’s history and the many individuals who have been part of our past. When President Ruthven made the remarks above, he didn’t know that one day UM-Flint would become an anchor in the community. That Charles Stewart Mott and many others would lead the charge to bring the University of Michigan’s first campus outside of Ann Arbor to the city of Flint. That our identity would transform gradually from Flint Senior College (1956-1964) to Flint College (1964-1971) to the University of Michigan-Flint (1971). Like the sentiments expressed by Dean David M. French in his letter to the Class of 1958, every transition requires a leap of faith. And, every leap of faith that we’ve taken as a university has helped to pen a story of innovation, impact and significance. This edition of Bridges features alumni who have continued that story as leaders in their fields. Their stories, like the story of UM-Flint, include elements of risk, compromise, courage and resolve, elements I hope to embody in the next chapter of my own story. This edition of Bridges will be my last as I will retire on January 3, 2024 . . . 40 years to the day that my career began at the University of Michigan-Flint. To everyone at UM-Flint who has been part of my journey, thank you. It has been a privilege! You inspired me to be my best self and gave me space to live into my purpose. I am closing a door, but the room behind it holds a lifetime of memories.

Harlan Hatcher, U-M President 1951-1967. Harlan Hatcher succeeded Ruthven as president in 1951 and supported the establishment of branches.

Forever Go Blue!

Mary Jo Sekelsky, EdD Executive Director Alumni Relations

For those who leave Michigan, but for whom Michigan never leaves.

Arthur G. Bishop and Michael Gorman, Flint and University of Michigan Boosters, 1940. Flint banker Arthur G. Bishop (Class of 1871), an original investor in Buick, and his protege, Michael Gorman, editor of the "Flint Journal," demonstrate their support of University of Michigan football by dressing in uniforms. Bishop's son, R. Spencer, was a Regent.

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

University of Michigan-Flint Chancellor Donna Fry, Interim

Regents of the University of Michigan Jordan B. Acker, Huntington Woods Michael J. Behm, Grand Blanc Mark J. Bernstein, Ann Arbor Paul W. Brown, Ann Arbor Sarah Hubbard, Okemos Denise Ilitch, Bingham Farms Ron Weiser, Ann Arbor Katherine E. White, Ann Arbor Santa Ono, ex officio

University Advancement Vice Chancellor

CONTENTS

Shari Schrader

Executive Director Alumni Relations Mary Jo Sekelsky

Alumni Relations Coordinator

University of Michigan-Flint | BRIDGES ALUMNI MAGAZINE | FALL 2023 | VOL. 1, NO. 3

Christina Blitchok

University of Michigan-Flint Alumni Engagement Board Brian J. Barrie, ‘85 Bethany Brooks, ‘22

HEALTH CARE FUTURES

Christie L. Copeland, ‘93 Vanessa C. Ferguson, ‘03 Gregory S. Hare, ‘92

WELCOME INTERIM CHANCELLOR DONNA FRY

Kim S. Knag, ‘96, ‘01 Tina M. Nies, ‘89 Terry J. Wisner, ‘81

College of Health Sciences adds new programs in growing fields

A message from our new interim chancellor

Editors Christina Blitchok, ’14 Mary Jo Sekelsky

Contributors Logan T. McGrady, ’13 Martha Pennington Robb King, ’90 Dayne Hopkins, ’15; ’18 Madeline Campbell, ’15

Graphic Design Olmsted Associates, Inc.

TIMELINE OF ACHIEVEMENT

Alumni through the decades (1950s – 2020s)

Member

NURSING EDUCATION IMPACT UM-Flint’s nursing program celebrates its impact on community and graduates

Council for the Advancement and Support of Education

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

UM-Flint Alumni

@umflintalumni

University of Michigan-Flint Alumni Relations

26 19

BE THE TIPPING POINT

Help UM-Flint continue opening doors for generations to come

WORD SEARCH Search through UM-Flint's past, present & future

ALUMNI LEADERSHIP CORPS Name change reflects new season of engagement and service

OUR COVER: The cover for this issue was created by UMFlint students. Title of Work: Doors & Windows Student Artists: Paige Cronce, Carol Dahdal, Kelly Gartley, Avery Hambleton, Mike Hutasangkas, Kendall Keener, Jessica Kolevar, Jacob Long, Sidnee Sheldon, Veronica VanCleve Instructor: Alla Dubrovich, MFA Course: Intro to Visual Arts – Winter 2023

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

TIMELINE OF

ACHIEVEMENT Over the decades, the University of Michigan-Flint has educated some truly remarkable minds. Our graduates have gone on to make significant impacts in their careers, communities and the world at large. In their respective sectors of business, education, physics and mathematics, their educations have opened doors of achievement for these alumni and those they have inspired.

M. 1950s Phyllis Cmejrek Class of 1958 | English

hyllis Cmejrek always wanted to go to college, and the convenience of attending Flint Junior College appealed to her. Circumventing the cost of room and board by living at home and getting a degree from U-M were compelling factors in her decision to enroll.

“There were a lot of older students in the early years, and I really admired what they did. There were also a lot of veterans returning on the GI Bill. I got to know everybody. I loved the family atmosphere and the availability of the faculty. I remember Graduation Day 1958 standing in the tunnel on graduation day; how exciting it was when our class president held up the sign that said, ‘Flint College.’ It was such a novel idea. I’ve always felt very proud to be a member of the first class at Flint.”– Phyllis M. Cmejrek 4

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

A. Tomalia 1960s Donald | Class of 1961 Chemistry “As long as I can remember, I’ve been curious about what life is, how it works, and what its purpose is. Since chemistry is focused on the dynamics, behavior and composition of all matter in the universe, it seemed logical that chemistry would help me find those answers.” After high school, Donald Tomalia illustration of Dr. Tomalia’s set out in earnest to find those answers. An dendrimer, now found in cancer Following completion of undergraduate therapies and antiviral agents. (‘61, UM-Flint) and graduate degrees (‘61, Bucknell University) in chemistry, he began working in R&D at Dow Chemical Company, inventing the dietary high-fiber supplements known as Citrucel in the 1970s. He would go on to complete a PhD in physical-organic chemistry at Michigan State University (‘68). Transitioning to a new role as a research fellow at Dow, Tomalia began exploring how to create synthetic molecules and polymers that mimicked the growth and appearance of a tree, including its trunk, branches and leaves. This research led to his discovery of dendrimers. Today, dendrimers are found in cardio-diagnostics, targeted cancer therapies, antiviral agents that protect people from COVID-19, and antiviral therapies for HIV and HPV. Tomalia’s first startup company, Dendritech, launched in 1992 and was acquired by Dow six years later. His next startup, Dendritic Nanotechnologies, was founded in 2001. The company, acquired by Australia’s Starpharma in 2006, uses dendrimers to enhance cancer treatment drug delivery. Tomalia’s current company, NanoSynthons LLC, founded in 2010, focuses on the development, production, and distribution of high-quality dendrimers and welldefined nano-building block structures. Dr. Tomalia referred to his life as a journey, saying, “‘Journey’ is a code word for learning. I’ve learned so much along the way. I never thought I would have discovered something as important as dendrimers.”

Dallas Wayne

1970s Anderson

Class of 1971 | Mathematics, Biology

orn and raised in Flint, Michigan, Dallas Anderson wanted to attend college locally. It was his close relationships with Math Department faculty that led to a unique experience his senior year. Dallas was the only college student invited to work with math faculty in a program called Project SEED (Special Elementary Education for the Disadvantaged), where he taught abstract mathematics to 3rd and 5th grade students. Leveraging his coursework in mathematics and biology, Dallas went on to pursue graduate studies in biostatistics at U-M Ann Arbor, earning an MPH degree in 1973 and a PhD in 1976. With his PhD in hand, pursuing a career in public health with a focus on neuroepidemiology was on the horizon. Dallas has worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, for nearly 47 years, first with the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (1976-2003) and then the National Institute on Aging (2003-present).

1980s John Long Class of 1987 Physics and Philosophy “When I finished high school, my parents recommended a good general education done locally so I wouldn’t have to live away from home. They also believed smaller classes would provide a better educational experience. UM-Flint provided both.” John Long is quick to acknowledge that his most rewarding on-campus experience was working as a teaching

Dallas has many favorite memories of his undergraduate education, among them his freshman zoology course taught by Professor William R. Murchie, for whom the Murchie Science Dr. Anderson delivers a lecture to students and Building is named. faculty during a visit to campus, April 27, 2023. Dallas still remembers Dr. Murchie saying, “I don’t care whether you believe in evolution, but you better know it.” And then, there was Professor Renate McLaughlin (Mathematics) who stepped in to create a tailor-made mathematical German course when, due to a schedule conflict, Dallas could not enroll in the German course he was supposed to take. Last, but certainly not least, Dallas remembers his chief mentor, Professor William Caldwell (Mathematics). Dr. Caldwell encouraged Dallas to become a math major, reminding him that, “A degree in mathematics could lead in many different directions.”

"For a student, simply listening is not learning; for a teacher, simply speaking is not teaching. Students, especially scientists, must learn with their hands." – Dr. DeGraaf assistant for various professors. This began in the second semester of his freshman year when the opportunity to work with Dr. Donald DeGraaf, a founding member of the physics department, presented itself. “The networking, mentoring, and recommendations I received through my activities in the physics and mathematics departments were absolutely invaluable.” John would go on to complete a PhD in physics at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, in 1995. Since then he has been at Deakin University in Victoria, Australia, teaching physics, materials science, and electronics. Dr. Long is an expert

in distance and online learning, and serves as co-editor in chief of the International Journal on Innovations in Online Education. John says that his career was forged through four things: studying physics as a major, working as a teaching assistant in the department of physics, securing a work experience at AC Spark Plug with the help of UM-Flint’s cooperative education program, and studying in Australia for four months as part of UM-Flint’s Honors Program. Dr. DeGraaf

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

1990s Gregory S. Hare Class of 1992 Criminal Justice

Marsha R. Hare Class of 1995 Business Administration Greg Hare and Marsha Harper met while students at the University of Michigan-Flint. Married in 1994, Greg believes their children have benefited from the first-generation college experience he and Marsha embraced. Their daughter Stephanie followed suit, receiving her undergraduate degree from UM-Flint in 2016. Upon completion of a master’s degree in higher education administration and working at Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri, Stephanie returned to UM-Flint and currently holds the position of residence hall director. Marsha has spent most of her career working in the international

2000s

Kyle J. Jankowski

LCSW, MSW, MADP Class of 2006 | Social Work 6

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Greg and Marsha Hare with their daughter Stephanie

space for GM customer care and aftersales. She credits School of Management faculty and staff for her professional success and says her career was enhanced by courses such as international business, supply chain management and logistics. Upon completion of his criminal justice degree in 1992, Greg worked as a probation parole officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections until 2009. Greg received a bachelor's degree in religious education from

mong Kyle’s favorite campus memories are, “Conversations with social work faculty and recreation center time with friends.” Kyle J. Jankowski is the co-founder and COO of The Center for Change & Healing, a clinical social work and depthpsychology based psychotherapy and consultation practice outside Chicago. The Center for Change and Healing clinic specializes in over 15 modalities of psychotherapy and counseling, addressing addictions, anger management, eating disorders, family therapy, first-generation immigrant struggles, reconnecting with ethnic roots, and all types of adolescent mental health issues. In 2022, Kyle and

his spouse, Vanessa (Kell) Jankowski, LCSW, opened a second clinic, Birch Forest Children’s Therapy Center, specializing in occupational therapy, treating autism spectrum and sensory disorders, trauma-informed treatments, art therapy, and family counseling. Kyle earned his Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from UM-Flint, where he also served as president of the Social Work Club, and was inducted into the Phi Alpha National Honor Society for Social Work, Zeta Lambda Chapter, in 2006. Kyle then earned a graduate degree from the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice (MSW/AM). Continuing his

2010s Midwestern Baptist College in 2007. In 2015, he completed studies at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science and has worked as a licensed mortician at Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home since 2015. Asked what influenced their decision to attend UM-Flint, the Hares list location, scholarships, and love for the Maize and Blue! A member of UM-Flint’s Alumni Leadership Corps since 2021, Greg enjoys volunteering in the community and at campus events. Marsha and Greg have fond memories of the co-curricular activities they participated in while students. Greg has been a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, Theta Tau Chapter, since 1989 and Marsha became a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated in 2021. Their favorite campus memory? President Bill and Hillary Clinton’s 1994 visit to UM-Flint.

postgraduate education, Kyle completed a seven-year advanced clinical training program and earned a second master’s from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Jungian & Depth Psychology (MADP). Currently, Kyle is working with former classmates from Pacifica Graduate Institute on a three-book series through Rowman and Littlefield about educational pedagogy and using poetry and other arts for enhancing traditional teaching, mentoring and psychotherapy practice. He has written two historically informed poetry books, Dispatches from the Dnipro: Poems in the War in Ukraine, and Unorthodox: Poetry of Winter Solstice, Hanukkah, Christmas, and Advent.

The Bendas pose with friends at an Oh Hello event.

Kayla J. Benda

Class of 2013 | Communication

Alexander (Alex) K. Benda Class of 2014 International Business and Entrepreneurship

University of Michigan-Flint alumni Alex Benda and Kayla Cornell forged a connection during their undergraduate years that would lead them to create Oh, Hello Companies—a thriving business specializing in stickers and stationery. Initially an e-business, their venture quickly gained nationwide popularity. In 2020, they proudly opened their first physical store, Oh, Hello Paper and Gifts, in downtown Grand Rapids, with overwhelming support from the community. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Oh, Hello Companies flourished. By April 2022, they expanded their retail presence with Courage and Soar, a captivating concept store adjacent to their flagship location. Their mission goes beyond commerce, as they envision their stores as community gathering spaces inspired by spaces like the University Center KIVA. Monthly, they unveil new clothing and home goods collections, complemented by engaging events like kittens and cocktail nights, book signings, and spoken word performances by local artists. Alex and Kayla's dedication extends beyond their business—serving on boards and committees throughout Grand Rapids, they actively contribute to the community's strength and prosperity. When in Grand Rapids, drop by 40 Monroe Center Street NW to experience the vibrant world of Oh, Hello Paper and Gifts. Connect with fellow alumni and support the entrepreneurial success of Alex and Kayla—a testament to the transformative power of our university's spirit.

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

2020s Ja’Nel Jamerson Class of ‘12, ‘14, ‘19, ‘22 English (BA), Secondary Education (MA), Curriculum & Instruction (EdS), Educational Leadership (EdD)

Leadership is a journey . . .

Dr.

Ja’Nel Jamerson’s journey as a leader in education began in his Bachelor of Arts program at UM-Flint, during which he held leadership positions in First Street Residence Hall, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Theta Tau Chapter and Black Student Union. He also earned a position with the university’s office of Educational Opportunity Initiatives (EOI). For decades, EOI has provided pre-college and college students with academic support, leadership development and community engagement opportunities in an inclusive and nurturing environment. By his second semester, Ja’Nel was working as a program associate in EOI, and he went on to hold positions of increasing responsibility over the course of both his undergraduate and master’s programs. After completing his BA, MA and EdS, Ja’Nel earned his doctorate in education from UM-Flint in 2022. Ja’Nel applied his academic foundation in educational leadership by serving as executive director of Flint & Genesee Literacy Network (2014-2019) and executive director of Educare Flint (20192023). In January 2023, Ja’Nel was named executive director of the Flint Center for Educational Excellence. He will serve in this role as part of his work at Community Foundation of Greater Flint, where he is vice president for policy and P-20 partnerships. Ja’Nel’s experience building and managing multistakeholder efforts to advance outcomes in the education sector has equipped him to launch this new organization.

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Left: Dr. Jamerson receives his doctoral hood. Below: Dr. Jamerson speaks on a panel during the 5th anniversary celebration of Educare Flint in December 2022.

Launched with funding from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, the Flint Center for Educational Excellence is creating a system that works for all Flint kids by providing educational programs, research and advocacy that ensure Flint kids, their families and communities thrive. The Flint Center leads and coordinates six cooperative efforts: a community education initiative, afterschool programming, the Flint Early Childhood Collaborative, a parent collaborative, a community council on education and a Network for School Excellence. These programs and initiatives work together to improve academic outcomes and well-being for Flint kids. Ja’Nel and his wife, Phaejare (Class of ‘13), have a two-and-a-halfyear-old son.

In a message addressed to UMFlint faculty, staff and students, Interim Chancellor Fry wrote:

Welcome from Interim Chancellor

Donna Fry In July 2023 it was announced that then chancellor Deba Dutta would be leaving UM-Flint for a new position at the University of Illinois. After consulting with senior leadership and gathering thoughts from the UM-Flint community, President Ono announced that Donna Fry, Dean of the College of Health Sciences, would serve as interim chancellor. In his announcement, President Ono wrote, “I’m convinced that Dean Fry, who also has an appointment as a professor of physical therapy, is the right person to lead us through this period of transition. Her deep commitment to engaging the UM-Flint community in the transformation work was critical in the selection of an interim leader. Dean Fry’s appointment will allow this process to move forward, and we will do everything in our power to ensure the success of Interim Chancellor Fry and assure a bright future for UM-Flint.”

In my 36 years at the University of Michigan-Flint I have witnessed immense change in the university, the city of Flint and our region. Last year, our campus community engaged in a process of dreaming and planning for a change in the future of UMFlint. I am immensely grateful to Chancellor Deba Dutta and his visionary work in initiating the planning process. As a long-standing faculty member and administrator at this resilient institution, I have seen the incredible talent of our faculty members who care passionately about providing exceptional education to our students. I’ve witnessed staff members going the extra mile to help students. And I’ve had the privilege of watching creative and inspiring students gain the education they needed to achieve their career goals. The talent at our institution is amazing! Our work in the coming year is to advance the transformation plan that will be designed to provide excellent opportunities for future generations of students who will attend our great institution. As your interim chancellor, I will commit my primary focus to working with all of you and with President Santa J. Ono and the university’s Board of Regents to advance the transformation of UM-Flint. Let us commit together to a strong future for the university.

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

ALUMNI PROFILE:

Beth LIPKA

“We Bleed Maize & Blue”

Chief CRNA Beth Lipka and Team of Alumni Leading Patients Safely through Surgery

you have had a surgery at Hurley Medical Center in Flint, chances are good that a graduate of the University of Michigan-Flint’s nurse anesthesia program helped you make it through safely. Beth Lipka, ‘13, has been the Chief Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at Hurley since 2019. Of the 26 employees she supervises, 25 of them are UM-Flint alumni. She also mentors current students as a preceptor for clinical rotations. The role is full circle for Lipka, a Frankenmuth resident who worked at Hurley as a registered nurse in the neonatal ICU prior to enrolling in the program. She also completed clinicals at Hurley and was hired as a CRNA shortly after graduating. She is one of many UM-Flint graduates working in leadership roles in the field. 10

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

“UM-Flint CRNAs are leaders,” she said. “U-M gives you the skills you need to lead an operating room and direct the surgeon, nurses and techs.

If you are composed and strong, the room is going to read you.” She is grateful for the training that she received, and knows that when she hires a UM-Flint graduate, they will provide amazing care. The program was master’s level when she graduated and became a doctoral program in 2018. “We bleed Maize and Blue,” Lipka said. “I love to hire U-M graduates because they have a lot of hands-on experience and are ready to practice. They can perform in an intense setting.” As a preceptor, she sees students make the same journey she did, from timid and unsure to a confident practitioner.

I love to hire U-M graduates because they have a lot of hands-on experience and are ready to practice.” - Beth Lipka

“We build their confidence,” she said. “We have been through it ourselves and know where they should be at each stage. We want students coming out of the program to represent it well.” When Lipka isn’t in the operating room, she is watching her two teenage sons play sports. In her experience, a career in nurse anesthesia has great worklife balance and continues to be challenging and fulfilling. “Nurse anesthetists have a unique job,” she said. “People are vulnerable when they are put to sleep for surgery. They trust us to protect them. It is a lot of responsibility, but it is super rewarding.”

Lipka instructs students in the nurse anesthesia program (not in photo order), Mackenzie Cooper, ‘25; Brianna Allen, ‘25; Christopher LaGraff, ‘23; and Lauren Hamlin, ‘23, at Hurley Hospital in Flint.

The UM-Flint connection may only get stronger for Lipka. Her 17-yearold son Logan is planning to attend UM-Flint after high school to study nursing and then nurse anesthesia.

“He sees the difference that we make in people’s lives and that I come home excited about my job,” she said. “I am giving back to the community that gave so much to me.” BRIDGES / FALL 2023

NURSING EDUCATION

IMPACT

UM-Flint’s Paradigm-Shifting Approach

"The fundamental approach to nursing education today is very similar to the approach of the 1950s,” said Cynthia McCurren, who was appointed dean of the University of MichiganFlint School of Nursing (SON) in 2021.

“W

hat we teach has changed as knowledge, interventional options and technology have expanded exponentially. But we have been reactive – rather than proactive – to the circumstances that affect health care, like staffing shortages, inefficiencies, inequities and lack of care coordination as examples,” she said. McCurren is working to promote meaningful innovation that will revolutionize nursing education, both in her role as SON dean and as chair of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, which represents more than 860 member schools. This combination of national leadership and local opportunities positions UM-Flint to have an outsized impact on the future of nursing. “We obviously need nurses in hospitals, but we have a call to do much more than that. As a profession we need to move away from an illness episodic approach to caring for individuals to an intentional approach to illness prevention and health promotion, aligning with public health principles and policy advocacy. Preparing nurses for person-centered care is critical, educating them to support the mind, body and spirit,” said McCurren. Just two years into her tenure as dean, that paradigmshifting impact is already beginning to take shape. Among the initiatives being implemented are key community partnerships, placing nursing education at UM-Flint closer to its stakeholders and offering students real-world experiences before earning their degrees. At Ascension Genesys Hospital in Grand Blanc, plans are underway to create a “dedicated education unit,” an area of the hospital dedicated to the preparation of future nurses. 12

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Plans for the unit developed from discussions organized by McCurren that occurred between UM-Flint and the area’s major health care providers. Having a centralized space in which learners and practitioners will consistently interact allows for the building of deep, lasting relationships. “With a partnership of this depth, it is vital that the staff of the hospital really buy into the program, and we are seeing that happen,” McCurren said. “Students from different levels of learning can be integrated into the model and you can work collaboratively to identify the outcomes that are most meaningful for both patients and students. The opportunities for learning exist 24/7.” While the dedicated education unit will provide a centralized hub for learning, another initiative will take UM-Flint nursing students into the community, meeting stakeholders where they live. The Luke Project 52 Clinic offers prenatal care to mothers in Flint, delivered via a free clinic. But rather than care starting and ending during the visit, particular emphasis is placed on connecting families with lasting resources to provide sustainable health solutions. “It is increasingly accepted that if we don’t address people's social determinants of health – such as access to nutritious food and safe housing – we aren’t improving outcomes,” McCurren said. “I can give you antibiotics for your ear infection, but if you don't have any food to eat, remaining healthy is unlikely.

We are helping nurses to conduct those assessments and use their findings to link individuals to resources.” An increasing emphasis on community partnerships is paired with forward-thinking opportunities and investment on campus for SON. The Center for Simulation & Clinical Innovation allows students to develop high-quality, safe patient care skills throughout three floors and more than 10,000 sq. ft. in the William S. White Building. In addition to human

patient simulators, the CSCI also offers standardized patient and interprofessional simulation-based experiences along with virtual, augmented and mixed-reality technologies enabling students to experience multiple unique patient experiences highlighting vulnerable or underserved populations during their coursework. Nursing students had another novel opportunity to practice interacting with patients earlier this year in collaboration with the UM-Flint Theatre program and other fields of study in health care. Theatre students and alumni acted out scenes that included a health care provider misgendering a patient, and a therapist working with a provider who is insensitive to the patient's physical limitations. The scenes were written jointly between health care and theatre faculty. "Exposing students to different health care scenarios helps them in a couple of different ways," said William Irwin, associate professor of theatre. "First, it enables them to practice clinical reasoning, and how to perform evaluations and interventions in realistic situations. Second, it prepares them for their careers because they learn how to act in their role as a health care provider and gain a better working knowledge of body language, vocal energy, interpersonal skills and relationship dynamics." In 2022, the first students joined SON’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner certificate program. Spearheaded by

professors of nursing Carman Turkelson and Megan Keiser, the SANE program prepares nurses to meet a vital need in Michigan health care: providing trauma-informed care and medical forensic exams for patients who have experienced sexual violence. The competence of health care providers conducting these exams is vital not only for legal proceedings but also for the mental and physical well-being of patients. Technology-assisted simulations are also a key component of SANE preparation at UM-Flint. "Using simulation, we're able to mimic things that would happen in real life, but without putting a patient or an individual at risk,” Turkelson said. “And it also provides the opportunity for the learner to get feedback, guidance, instruction, and reflect on what happened. From there, you can take what you did in that simulation setting and apply it to the patient care environment." Through community partnerships, curricular innovations, and cutting-edge resources, SON is at the forefront of producing students who possess much more than just excellence in their clinical skills and knowledge. The school cultivates nursing leaders who are passionate about a patient’s holistic wellness.” “Ask any patient what's missing in their care–it's humanity, connecting with the individuals helping them,” McCurren said. “I have learned that nursing lives where the hands of those who give care and those who receive care meet. If our students are reflective in their work, they will understand who they are as a professional and what their patients truly need.”

Partnering with Trinity Health for Tuition Assistance Program The UM-Flint School of Nursing has entered into an agreement with Trinity Health Michigan to provide tuition assistance for select applicants to the Traditional and Accelerated Second Degree BSN programs. Per the agreement, Trinity Health Michigan will provide two semesters of tuition support (up to $10,000 per semester) for students graduating in April 2024. Those students will commit to a defined employment period with Trinity Health Michigan in exchange for the tuition assistance. Presently, it is anticipated that there will be 16 participating students in the first cohort of scholarship recipients.

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Health Care Futures

College of Health Sciences Adds New Programs in Growing Fields In response to a growing number of critical workforce shortages throughout various areas of the health care industry, the University of Michigan-Flint’s College of Health Sciences (CHS) is expanding its programming to provide students with additional opportunities to train for in-demand, high-paying careers.

he college launched two new bachelor’s degrees, two combined bachelor’s/graduate programs, and a new master’s degree this fall. It will also continue to develop new programs and make plans to expand existing programs. 14

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

“The College of Health Sciences is committed to meeting changing health care needs,” said Donna Fry, interim chancellor. “Our new programs advance our mission of training health care professionals to advance the health of local, regional and global communities.”

New programs will include:  EXERCISE SCIENCE The bachelor’s in exercise science is designed for students interested in the science of physical activity and its impact on health. It is a great degree for students interested in moving on to one of the

university’s graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy or physician assistant, while also being prepared to apply to graduate programs in athletic training and kinesiology. Graduates will also be ready to earn two national certifications, as a certified exercise physiologist or a strength and conditioning specialist, and be immediately prepared to work in a growing field, developing exercise programs to help patients recover from injury and disease. Other possible careers for program graduates include cardiac rehabilitation therapist, wellness coach, fitness center manager, fitness sales agent and personal trainer. Students will gain hands-on skills in state-of-the-art labs and in the community, including fieldwork and internships.

 HEALTH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY The need for professionals trained to manage medical records and other important health care data is growing quickly. Jobs in health information technology are projected to grow 17% through 2031, with a median salary of $55,560 per year. This new bachelor’s degree will be offered 100% online. It will prepare students to earn the registered health information technician credential and meet the current and future needs of health systems: big data, information security and document integrity. The program is a great choice for tech-savvy students who want to play an important role in the field by organizing data that helps to improve health care systems performance and patient satisfaction, and to reduce costs. Students will complete an internship and gain valuable, hands-on experience in a busy health care setting.

 PHYSICAL THERAPY AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ACCELERATED PATHWAYS Thanks to two new innovative pathway programs, there will now be a faster and less expensive road to a career in physical therapy or occupational therapy. The traditional path to a doctorate in occupational therapy or physical therapy is seven years. With the innovative accelerated pathways programs, students can complete both a bachelor’s and a doctorate in six years, saving one year of time and tuition. Students will spend their first three years completing requirements for a Bachelor of Science in health sciences and apply to begin the graduate program in their fourth year.

If accepted, the first two semesters will also work as the final semesters of the bachelor’s degree, meaning both degrees will be completed with 31 to 33 fewer credits required compared to the traditional path. UM-Flint is proud to offer the state’s top-ranked Doctor of Physical Therapy program. The program has a 100% graduation rate and a 100% employment rate after graduation. UM-Flint’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program was the first fully-accredited doctorate in the field in Michigan. The program provides more opportunities in leadership, teaching, research and advocacy than master’s programs.

 HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION (HSA) As health care evolves, the need for qualified administrators, leaders, and health and business professionals continues to grow. To meet that demand, CHS has launched a customizable Master of Science in health services administration. The unique program allows students to stack several graduate certificates to custom-build a degree with the in-demand skills that interest them most. Students will choose two to three certificates and take one additional elective or capstone course for a minimum of 30 credits. Certificate options include health care administration, health care supply chain management, health data analytics, long-term care administration and public health. The program may be completed online or in a hybrid format. The HSA degree program will prepare students to be well-rounded, highly effective health care leaders. Depending on the certificates chosen, learners will be prepared for a number of high-paying and sought-after jobs such as health care administrator, long-term care administrator, clinical care manager, health information manager and insurance underwriter. Jobs for health services managers are growing quickly and pay well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the field has an estimated 28% job growth rate through 2031 and a median salary of $101,340. BRIDGES / FALL 2023

ALUMNI PROFILE:

Quion Wheeler

Something else that Wheeler believes everyone should be fine with is speaking honestly and openly about mental health. The current Oakland County school resource officer is an outspoken supporter of therapy. “I'm definitely an advocate for therapy, without a doubt,” said Wheeler. “But make no mistake, a therapist does not solve all your problems but is rather a compassionate listener that can help you navigate your journey and that goes a long way. “It’s good to be around someone who can listen without necessarily responding and can assess or figure out what moves a person should make in a particular direction when they can’t do that for themselves. I've had the experience of having two therapists, one of whom started with me because of job-related trauma and distress. I struggled with things I saw and didn't know how to process. Talking to someone licensed or trained in assisting someone find their way is an incredible opportunity that I’m thankful for.”

hen Quion Wheeler made the decision to pursue a career in law enforcement, it wasn’t because he wanted to “throw the book” at anyone. Rather, the University of Michigan-Flint graduate with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice (2013) and master’s degree in public administration (2015) has spent the better part of the past few years writing a book of his own and is now the author of “Becoming Me.” According to Wheeler, the book is an autobiographical collection of stories that recount challenging periods that led to valuable life lessons. Throughout the book, he addresses some of his struggles with self-doubt and acceptance while pursuing his true self. “I think a lot of my self-doubt started in high school for various reasons and when I got Photo Credit: to UM-Flint, I didn't think I was smart enough Tarnisha Denson to compete academically on a university level,” said Wheeler, a former city of Flint police officer. “I entered college already on academic probation, my confidence was low, and I struggled my first few years. Then, I started - Quion Wheeler speaking to a few faculty members and staffers who were incredibly supportive and helped keep my spirits up. They kept telling me that I would make it, to believe in the system and follow the path I had chosen… and to believe in myself. I took their belief in me to heart and really shifted myself into overdrive my junior year.” That drive not only powered Wheeler to an undergraduate degree but also to follow in the footsteps of his father, Jeff, who also served as an officer in the Flint Putting his thoughts and experiences into focus through Police Department (1987-2010) and was himself an author. Looking deeper into himself is just what Quion Wheeler has therapy helped Wheeler do the same when drafting his book, itself a form of self-help. done with “Becoming Me” and is something he hopes that “(Writing the book) was (like therapy) for sure,” Wheeler readers of his book will do for themselves. said with a laugh. “I think the biggest thing for me was after “The title has a lot to do with stepping into my own and stepping into myself, so when people read the book, I just want reading it on paper, it made me realize how much I had been holding in throughout the years.” them to see the unguarded version of me, not this person who Wheeler said that the biggest personal takeaway from always tries to make chess moves without making any mistakes,” Wheeler said. “I want people to read it, see that it exists, and see becoming an author and sharing such personal matters is coming away from the process more confident than when he it in themselves. Read my story as someone who hasn't figured began. “Obviously vulnerability was a big thing going into it all out yet but is working and moving in the right direction. I just want people to feel that peace for themselves. It’s okay not this process, but I feel freer than I was at the start and if my doing this can help just one other person feel the same, it to go 100% all the time and not see the road miles down the was worth the journey.” way. We're all just trying each day, which is fine."

It's okay not to go 100% all the time and not see the road miles down the way.”

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

CHECK IT OUT!

Carrying Quion Wheeler's book, "Becoming Me."

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Renewed Partnership with Flint's Factory Two By Dayne Hopkins

uilding partnerships, encouraging innovation and empowering students through learning and hands-on experiences are values shared by the University of Michigan-Flint and Factory Two. The shared dedication to strengthening relationships within the community, and opening pathways to create, is what fueled the desire for the two entities to continue what each believes to be a valuable partnership into 2023. Factory Two, a community makerspace located in downtown Flint, "is built on the idea that learning, sharing and creating are empowering and transformative forces which can open doors and revolutionize both perceptions and realities." It provides tools and training to anyone in the community interested in furthering their

UM-Flint and Factory Two are natural partners as we both work to help build a stronger community.” - Craig Farrington knowledge. Some of the technology that can be found at Factory Two includes 3D printers, drones, wood and metal shops, screen printing, and more. Their members span business owners, students, hobbyists and retirees. Those involved can be found making items as delicate as jewelry, or as durable as iron worked on a coal-fired forge. The renewed partnership with UM-Flint will provide students with another outlet to be creative and learn new skills outside of the classroom. When Ben Gaydos, UM-Flint associate professor of design, recognized 18

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

A smith hammers out freshly fired metal in the shop at Factory Two.

the need for this important community connection, he advocated for the renewal. "Factory Two is a part of the lineage of innovation that Flint is known for," said Gaydos. "At UM-Flint we are focused on creating the innovators of tomorrow and through this partnership, our students, staff and faculty can share ideas and learn from and alongside others within the community." Craig Farrington, director at Factory Two, said that on top of getting access to the makerspace and all of the specialized equipment, students also get a free class to get them started on using the equipment. Students can utilize the space for creating merchandise including t-shirts, stickers, posters and more. "UM-Flint and Factory Two are natural partners as we both work to help build a stronger community," said Farrington. The renewed partnership provides 75 memberships to UM-Flint students from January through the end of 2023. "As our college continues to grow and seek additional experiences for our students, the relationship between ourselves and Factory Two is a tangible example of both real-life learning and a community connection that benefits all parties involved," said Christopher Pearson, dean of the College of Innovation & Technology.

Try Your Hand at Creating with Factory Two Factory Two not only offers memberships that allow the use of their many different tools, equipment and materials, but they offer classes as well.

Below is a sample of the classes Factory Two offers: (actual class schedule varies depending on season) • Intro to 3-D Printing • Intro to Sewing • Sewing Projects • Open Forge Sessions • Screen Printing • Vector Design with Inkscape • Laser Cutter Basic Skills • Leathermaking Projects • Intro to Blacksmithing • Intro to Stained Glass

To learn more, visit factorytwo.org.

Your generosity will open doors . . .

BE THE TIPPING POINT “The Alumni Scholarship for Excellence granted me opportunities to further expand my educational and personal knowledge, whether it be through academic projects or community activities.” Hanna Ferguson

College of Health Sciences Class of ‘23 Behavioral Technician in Northville, Michigan

erguson’s decision to attend the University of Michigan-Flint was influenced by her parents, Todd and Lisa Ferguson. Her mother enrolled to acquire prerequisites necessary to attend the Hurley School of Nursing and her father completed his MBA in 1999. “The chances afforded to myself and my family are not taken lightly. I am forever grateful I chose the University of Michigan-Flint to earn my degree.” The Alumni Scholarship for Excellence makes

it possible for students, like Ferguson, to experience everything UM-Flint has to offer. Make a gift and help UMFlint continue opening doors for generations to come.

(888) 518-7888 https://myumi.ch/JpVNw

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

ALUMNI PROFILE:

Lorne & Beth MacDonald Caring for the Community

orne and Beth MacDonald don’t always follow traditional paths. In fact, the owners of the Colorado Institute of Sports Medicine in Colorado Springs have built their businesses on their own terms. In his 66 years, Lorne, or Mac as he prefers, has also been called physical therapist, paratrooper, veteran, nontraditional student, business owner, and even an integral part of a U.S. Olympic team. He enrolled at UM-Flint at the age of 38, after 12 years in the U.S. Army, and went on to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences in 1999 and a master’s degree in physical therapy in 2001. 20

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Beth met her husband, a Detroit native, in Texas while he was in the Army. At the time, she was a jewelry store manager, but now manages the business side of their practices. Already the owner of an MBA, she would go on to earn a master’s degree in health care management in 2022 from the University of Michigan-Flint because she wanted to be a U-M graduate. While the pair has accomplished a lot, they consider two of their roles the most vital–mentor and community supporter. “We are duty bound to take care of people,” Lorne MacDonald said. “That is what we signed up for. We remind

our therapists that we are all part of the fabric of the community.” The pair has treated thousands of patients at their clinics, where they pride themselves on personal care and being the “Cheers” of physical therapy, where they know everyone by name. But most importantly, they have provided thousands of free physicals for local high school students, raised thousands of dollars for the community and mentored many physical therapists into business ownership. They are currently mentoring several of their employees on owning and operating their own franchises of the practice. Lorne MacDonald returns to the UM-Flint campus each year to speak with physical therapy students about owning their own business. He also funds a physical therapy scholarship. “I am a cheerleader for small businesses,” he said. “We want to get physical therapists thinking outside of the box. You have to adapt constantly.” After he graduated from the physical therapy program at 43, the MacDonalds wasted no time in getting down to business, opening their first Coloradobased practice and steering its quick growth from that single location to eight clinics. They ran that business for 10 years before opening their current practice in 2016. Along the way, Mac found himself working with athletes from Team USA and was the physical therapist for USA Judo at the 2012 London Olympic Games. The MacDonalds show no signs of slowing down and will continue caring for their community. Mac said that the pair owe it all to UM-Flint. “We don’t have the life we have without UM-Flint,” he said. “My physical therapy cohort was a family and the faculty and staff were amazing. I didn’t have the memory that the young people had, so I had to work very hard at it. I didn’t know any other option.”

ALUMNI PROFILE:

Laura Jolovic

A Calm Presence in the Storm

aura Jolovic, ‘15, is not scared of facing tough situations head on. As a radiation therapist at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tennessee, she treats children with cancer who are facing a challenge well beyond their years. The Flint native says that she could not imagine doing any other job. She operates complicated equipment while also providing comfort and conversation to families going through unspeakable hardship. During 30 days of treatment with patients who range in age from infants to 24 years old, she strives to be a calm presence in the storm. “The kids make the hard days worth it,” she said. “They are so resilient and almost always cheerful. It is truly a miracle to watch them go through treatments.” Jolovic was hired at St. Jude shortly after graduating with her bachelor’s degree in radiation therapy. She said that she always felt the call to care for children, dreaming of being a pediatrician or physical therapist until she learned of radiation therapy from a friend in the program. She was compelled by the ability to form personal relationships with patients in a deeper way. “You must be detail-oriented but also flexible. You also need to have a social aspect of your personality. Sometimes patients don’t want to talk about cancer anymore. They just want to have a normal conversation and talk about food, TV shows or the books they are reading.” Jolovic said that she knew she wanted to work in pediatrics after treating pediatric patients during a clinical rotation at Michigan Medicine. “We were able to train with world-renowned doctors,” she said of her clinicals. “You see such a variety of cases and learn so much about treatment options and patient populations. You get a very wellrounded education. Each patient is different.” She also says that the program’s faculty and the support of her small cohort prepared her to succeed in the job from day one.

To be there for someone at their lowest point is extremely fulfilling.” - Laura Jolovic

“You get to really rely on each other,” she said. “We still keep in touch.” Julie Hollenbeck, radiation therapy program director at UM-Flint, is planning to take her students to St. Jude in the fall to take a tour, observe treatments and connect with Jolovic. Jolovic knows that she has found the perfect career. “You hear from patients that they felt comfortable with you and could talk to you. That outweighs any hard part. To be there for someone at their lowest point is extremely fulfilling.”

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Word Search

In Search of: UM-Flint Past, Present & Future

Word Bank: ■ David French

■ William Moran

■ Recreation Center ■ CROB ■ SLOB

■ Longway Apartments ■ Brewery

■ Clint’s Café

■ Sarah Miles

■ Thompson Library

■ Black Box Theatre

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

■ Thumbprint Sculpture ■ First Street

Residence Hall ■ Murchie Science Building ■ William S White

■ Northbank Center

■ Forever Go Blue

■ KIVA

■ Esports

■ Gandhi Statue

■ Happenings Room ■ McKinnon Plaza ■ Willson Park

■ The Michigan Times ■ University Pavilion ■ Donna Fry

■ Strategic Transformation

ALUMNI PROFILE:

Kay Doerr Fighting for Lasting Change One Policy at a Time

ay Doerr knows that change doesn’t happen overnight. She also knows that progress is sometimes only pushed forward when you fight for it. That belief was the guiding force in her long career as a public health leader in Flint. Doerr, ‘91, ‘02, was inducted into the Genesee Health Plan Health Care Hall of Fame in 2022 following three decades of service to the community. Many public health policies in Genesee County exist largely thanks to her advocacy. During the Flint water crisis, she spearheaded a communitysupported health equity policy while serving on the Genesee County Board of Health. That policy passed in 2016 and was one of the first of its kind in the nation, calling for leaders to address health impacts in all policy decisions. Doerr was also an important figure in the fight to reduce tobacco use in the 1990s and early 2000s, helping lobby for policies locally and nationally. “We need to look at things through the lens of health in order to achieve equity,” she said. “It is wonderful to

be a part of something larger. No one person does anything alone.” A Flint native and graduate of bachelor’s and master’s programs in health care education at UM-Flint – the latter of which is now offered as a Master of Public Health – Doerr was a mother to four young children when she started her college career. She took classes part time and worked toward her bachelor’s degree for 12 years before realizing her goal. She applied that same tenacity and drive to her work. While interning with the Genesee County Health Department, she got involved with the American Lung Association and was trained to help people stop smoking. Through that work, and a longtime job as a research coordinator for the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, her interest in developing policy was born. Though she had been working with individuals to promote behavior change, she realized that policy change could be an even more powerful way to impact the poor health outcomes she witnessed through her research.

“As I continued through my career, I could see that policy change was like painting with a roller instead of a fine point brush,” Doerr said. “You could really change things quickly.” Doerr lived through many wins and setbacks in the fight against tobacco use. She worked with a variety of organizations on initiatives including banning smoking at Bishop International Airport, regulating tobacco sales, and increasing the legal smoking age in Genesee County to 21. While the last one was quickly overturned after its successful adoption, she soon witnessed that same change take hold on a national level. “A lot of progress has been made since 1990,” she said. “Our environment is no longer filled with smoke. Everyone takes it for granted now, but it was incredibly hard fought. We were fighting for kids and people who didn’t have a voice.”

As I continued through my career, I could see that policy change was like painting with a roller instead of a fine point brush.” - Kay Doerr Despite being retired, Doerr is still a familiar face in many organizations in Flint and mentoring others working to make the community a better place. “Public health is critical,” she said. “We put a lot of emphasis on health after people are sick. Public health pulls it back to prevention. If we want a vigorous society, we must keep people healthy instead of waiting until the damage is done. There is still a lot of work to be done.” BRIDGES / FALL 2023

ALUMNI PROFILE:

Rebecca Myszenski and Andrea Lowell Like Mother, Like Daughter

all started with Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day. Andrea Lowell would watch her mom, Rebecca Myszenski, a graduate of two University of Michigan-Flint physical therapy programs, on the job as a school-based physical therapist. Lowell saw firsthand the impact her mother made on others. It was moments like those that led Lowell to follow in her mom’s footsteps in many ways, including attending UM-Flint and going on to make a difference in the lives of others, specifically children. But in other ways, she forged her own path. A Clarkston native, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in health sciences (2019) and was part of the first graduating class of UM-Flint’s Occupational Therapy Doctorate program in 2022. She originally considered a career in physical therapy or special education. Then, while job shadowing in an elementary school classroom, she watched a student work with an occupational therapist. It was another moment that made an impression on the two-time graduate as she was drawn to the field for its comprehensive approach and the improvements it made in people’s lives. “I saw the immense impact that occupational therapists have,” Lowell said. “They advocate for individuals in a holistic way.”

Above: Lowell (left) and classmate demonstrate some of the tools available to treat patients during their occupational therapy program.

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

After graduating, she began her professional endeavors as a pediatric occupational therapist at Mobile Therapy Centers in Franklin, Tennessee. The difference she is now making is in the lives of children with autism, sensory processing difficulties and fine motor deficits, as she is helping them to increase their independence. “Kids’ primary occupation is play,” Lowell said. “It may look like we are just playing the whole time, but we are addressing 20 different skills. The best part of my job is watching a child try something and keep practicing until they get it.” She said that the program at UM-Flint, especially the clinicals and capstone project, prepared her well to make an immediate change in the lives of her patients. “The curriculum was well-rounded,” she said. “The faculty were so supportive. They had experience in many different OT specialties and shared their knowledge and expertise. There are so many different types of therapy you can specialize in. If you spoke to my classmates about their jobs, a lot of them look very different. The field has a lot of creativity.” Lowell said that throughout her journey, her mom has unsurprisingly played the role of mentor and motivator. She has also watched her mom continue to make an impact on her own career, currently as the assistant vice president of career and technical education at Mott Community College. “It was special to be the next generation to graduate from UM-Flint and continue to give back to the community with my mom,” Lowell said. “Seeing the education she received, how she grew in her career, and the number of people she helped, inspired me to do similar things.”

Michigan High School Esports Federation Partnership By Logan McGrady

Put on the headphones and stretch out your keyboard fingers. It's time for a showdown to find who has the fastest mouse in the state. The University of Michigan-Flint partnered with the Michigan High School Esports Federation (MiHSEF) to host the organization's spring 2023 state finals event, May 13, at the UMFlint Recreation Center. The event was the first in a series of finals to be held at the university, as UM-Flint has been selected by MiHSEF to host tournaments at the conclusion of the organization's fall and spring seasons through 2028. "UM-Flint's dedication to esports is apparent and we believe that the university's state-of-the-art facilities, experienced staff, and commitment to esports aligns with our mission," said Zach Garner, board secretary with MiHSEF and technology coordinator at Perry Public Schools. "This partnership will enable us to provide a professional and competitive

environment for all participants while promoting good sportsmanship, teamwork and leadership skills." Erik Taipalus is the esports program strategy manager and information technology project management office manager at UM-Flint. He said that the university's investment in esports reflects growing trends in a worldwide industry. A 2018 Deloitte research study found that esports attracted $4.5 billion in investment capital that year. "At the highest level, you see an alignment between traditional sports and esports in which you have 20-30 support personnel for every professional player. Marketing, legal, health care, broadcasting and journalism all play an auxiliary role in the competition, creating new opportunities for students preparing for their careers," said Taipalus, who went on to say that students from every school and college at UM-Flint participate in esports.

"Young people who game these days are not automatically 'computer geeks.' They are studying in all fields, not just computer science. No matter their particular area of interest, however, all of our students are interested in technology. By hosting events like the MiHSEF finals we can showcase the technology-based initiatives happening across UM-Flint's academic units to prospective students and the community." BRIDGES / FALL 2023

ALUMNI

L to R: Gregory Hare, Kim Knag, Jameela McCree

LEADERSHIP CORPS

Name Change Reflects New Season of Engagement and Service for Former Alumni Leadership Corps

he Alumni Leadership Corps (ALC) was founded as a partnership between the Office of Alumni Relations and UM-Flint alumni with a common goal of serving campus and its various stakeholders. During a meeting in June of this year, the group discussed their vision and how best to implement their goals at a practical level. The results of that discussion included a change in name and structure, as well as an intended expansion of the group’s membership.

Rather than one entity, the ALC is now divided into three separate yet cooperative groups–the Alumni Engagement Board, the Alumni Engagement Committees, and the Alumni Engagement Network. This structure was adopted in order to create a space for all alumni with an 26

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

interest in serving their alma mater, regardless of location and capacity. The Alumni Engagement Board will have an advisory role in helping the Office of Alumni Relations focus and implement its programming. Members of the board will partner with campus staff to lead one of the four committees, each with a different focus–connecting with other alumni, serving the campus community, providing career development resources for alumni and current students, and engaging with the greater Flint community. Members of the Alumni Engagement Network will be notified of events and programs throughout the year and will be invited to volunteer to a degree that best represents their interests, experience and availability. The alumni of UM-Flint represent a host of dynamic perspectives and experiences that have the potential to enrich and transform the campus community for the better. The UMFlint Alumni Engagement Organization

UM-Flint Alumni Engagement Organization Vision Statement: We foster a culture of growth and continued engagement for University of MichiganFlint alumni by increasing opportunities to serve and connect with fellow graduates, current students, and the greater UM-Flint campus and community. is dedicated to providing opportunities for that transformation to happen. There are currently open positions on several committees as well as in the larger volunteer network. If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact Christina Blitchok, alumni relations coordinator, at andersch@umich.edu.

A Letter from Peggy A vibrant spirit is in the air this year. The origin of this force is questionable, but it may have been caused by growth in the classroom, informal coffee shop discussion with instructors, or the influence of alert fellow students. Whatever the cause, an awareness of the potential of our college is evident. The students this year have combined their interests, energies and abilities to create a new academic and social atmosphere. Much effort has been expended this year to improve our “Way North Campus.” With pride and assurance we relinquish the task of furthering the growth of our school to the future classes of the University of Michigan, Flint College. Peggy Anne Parsons ‘63 Senior Class President

Peggy Anne Parsons receiving her diploma from Dean David M. French

These words were written 60 years ago by a student who likely had no idea what the potential she and her classmates recognized in their school would end up producing. When she received her diploma from Dean French, it would have been impossible for her to have imagined touring the new Murchie Science Building addition, grabbing coffee in UCEN, or walking across the Flint River to the William S. White Building. Nevertheless, Parsons recognized that she was part of a story that would carry on long after her own commencement, one continually written by every student who came after her; a story now including more than 50,000 alumni. It is our hope you will stay in touch, so that 60 years from now UM-Flint is just as unrecognizable in the ways in which it has grown and evolved to serve new generations of students.

Let's Get Connected! Scan to Update Your Alumni Record

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

Meet

DEON SMITH II

eon Smith II was 6 years old when police kicked in the door at his St. Louis, Missouri, home. He remembered time slowing down as his sister was pushed against the wall and his father pressed to the ground and handcuffed at gunpoint. “Where are the drugs at?” one officer screamed at Smith’s father, who tried to calmly explain that there were no drugs in the home. Police soon realized they had made a mistake. Their search warrant was for a different address, and, just as quickly as they stormed into Smith’s living room, they were gone, leaving the family to pick up the pieces. The experience would be traumatic under any circumstances, but was especially impactful for Smith, who had dreamed of becoming a police officer for as long as he could remember. “It completely derailed my perception of what law enforcement was supposed to be, what my dreams for the future were,” said Smith. But the actions of one officer kept the possibility of Smith pursuing his childhood dreams open. He recalled that, as things were settling down after the mistaken search warrant, there was another knock. Understandably

BRIDGES / FALL 2023

I may not really see what I have truly meant to this earth until I'm gone, and that is a beautiful thing.” - Deon Smith II

hesitant, his father opened the door to find another police officer, who asked to say a few words to the Smith family. “He got down on one knee, to get on the same level as me and my brother and sister,” Smith said. “He said two words that were very simple, but profound: ‘I’m sorry.’” More than a decade later, Smith, then a junior at the University of Michigan-Flint, happened to take a CPR certification class taught by Chris Swanson, who is now the Genesee County Sheriff. Smith said that he and Swanson “clicked instantly,” and at the end of the semester, Swanson asked Smith if he had ever considered becoming a police officer.

The example set by Swanson, and the interest he showed in Smith, was more than enough to convince the college student to revisit his boyhood dreams. He immediately switched his major to criminal justice and after earning his degree in 2013, Smith became a corrections officer at the Genesee County Sheriff ’s Office later that year. He graduated from the police academy in 2017 and has worked in several roles for the sheriff ’s office, including as a liaison officer for the Genesee Intermediate School District. Smith is now a police officer with UM-Flint’s Department of Public Safety, and recently underwent social work training in partnership with the Genesee Health System to aid in de-escalating tense situations and effectively carry out problem-oriented policing. The same desire to help others that pushed Smith toward a career in law enforcement motivated him to found Determination Is Why, Smith’s inspirational speaking organization, through which he shares a message of love, compassion and empathy.

L to R: Diana Castle, Director of Curriculum, Beecher High School; Officer Deon Smith II; Lance Sumpter (’01, ’05, ’12), Principal, Beecher High School

“I started Determination Is Why to make life better for people, to help them see more in their current situation and circumstances,” said Smith. “I often meet kids that look outside their doors and see abandoned homes, saying ‘This is all I'm going to be.’ I want them to see that there is so much more in store for them, that there is a person inside of them capable of amazing things.” Smith’s plans for Determination Is Why were solidified during the protests of George Floyd’s killing in 2020. As the protests took place in Flint, the Genesee County Sheriff ’s deputies marched alongside the protestors, Smith included. During the

march, Smith came across a former high school classmate, who asked him how he felt about the situation, both as a police officer and a Black man. “To all the law enforcement officers that are coming behind me, I’m working hard to leave things better than how I found them,” Smith responded. A recording of his remarks would later be shared widely online. “From pouring my heart into my work as a school liaison officer to that George Floyd protest, I had found my passion, to give people hope through motivational speaking,” he said. Much of Smith’s work as a speaker takes place in the schools

he previously served in his liaison officer role. During the 2022-23 academic year, he conducted an eightweek course in Carman-Ainsworth Community Schools, speaking to students on a variety of topics including mental health and bullying. Just as Smith expressed his desire to leave the law enforcement profession better than he found it, a clear theme in his work as a motivational speaker is to find purpose in not just bettering yourself, but bettering others and leaving a lasting, positive legacy. “I may not really see what I have truly meant to this earth until I'm gone, and that is a beautiful thing,” said Smith. “I understand why God has given me the tools that I have, to take someone experiencing trauma and getting them out of that situation and circumstance. I keep it in the front of my mind every day.” BRIDGES / FALL 2023

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID FLINT, MI PERMIT NO. 89

303 E Kearsley Street Flint, MI 48502