May 16, 2013
Inside
Learning Center
Fred L. Mathews Library
Delicious Summer Reading Program
Stop by through July 1 to get a kit
Contact: Katharine @
klandstrom@swmich.edu
Learning Center Hours
Dowagiac campus
Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Niles campus
Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday: Closed
SAC summer hours
Fitness Center Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 6:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. – Noon
Canyon Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, & Friday: 1 – 4 p.m.
Open House
Student Service Center
Dowagiac campus
College Services Building
July 8
Open House
Niles campus
Aug. 10
Healthy Roadrunner
Activities
SAC Room 807
Boot Camp
Mondays: 6:30 – 7:15 a.m.
Bodypump
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 12:15 – 1 p.m.
Tuesday & Thursday: 6:30 – 7:30 a.m.
Tuesday & Thursday: 12:15 – 12:45 p.m.
Book Buyback in August
Dowagiac campus
Aug. 7 & 8
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Niles campus
Aug. 8
2 – 7 p.m.
Holiday Hours
Dowagiac & Niles campuses
Memorial Day
Closed Monday, May 27
Independence Day
Closed July 4
Zollar Café
Monday-Thursday
7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Closed Friday, Saturday, & Sunday
Birdfeeder
Closed for the summer
Steve’s Run July 27
10K/5K run/5K walk
Register online at
stevesrun@swmich.edu
Johanna Johnston, of Goshen, graduated from Southwestern Michigan College with top honors receiving a 4.0 G.P.A for
two years. Johnston earned her associate in applied science in graphic design during the college’s 46th commencement
ceremony Saturday, May 4.
46th commencement
ceremony celebrates students’
academic accomplishments
S
outhwestern Michigan College hosted its 46th
commencement ceremony Saturday, May 4 at 11
a.m. in the gymnasium of the Charles O. Zollar
Building on the Dowagiac campus. The college conferred 587 associate degrees and certificates to 403
SMC students. In addition, Ferris State University at
Southwestern Michigan College awarded 29 bachelor’s degrees during the ceremony.
The commencement address was given by Dr.
Diane Chaddock, executive vice president and chief
operating officer at SMC. Dr. Chaddock, of Niles, has
served as the college’s executive vice president for the
past nine years. She will retire June 30 after 23 years
at the college.
Dr. Chaddock’s higher education career began in
1984 as a community college faculty member. During her time at Southwestern Michigan College, she
served as Math/Science Department chair and instructor of Human Anatomy and Physiology. She
then served as dean of Arts and Sciences until 2001
see
ceremony page 2
Two students
receive math/
science award
Nick Barber and Kara Edge were honored
for their academic excellence by the SMC
math/science faculty recently for their
contribution to STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, & Mathematics).
N
ick Barber and Kara Edge were honored by
the SMC math/science faculty recently for
their contribution to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics).
Barber received the Darrin Williams Scholarship because of his hard work and involvement in the
department and the college. As a founding member
of the SMC STEM Club, Barber has never missed a
meeting, presented himself as an outstanding teacher
and math/science departmental representative at the
Eagle Lake Elementary School science outing, met
with Terry Groth before his nuclear energy talk as
part of a STEM Club, worked the recent SMC open
house, and represented STEM Club at Campus Bash.
In addition, he was selected as one of three SMC
students for the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. Barber will be transferring to Michigan Technological University in the
fall to major in mechanical engineering.
Edge received the Math/Science Appreciation
Award. After last year’s award it was decided that the
award should go to either a high school or first-year
student who has contributed to the department. Edge
is the “unofficial” photographer of the STEM Club
and photographed Groth’s talk to the SMC student
body and faculty and on the recent trip to Eagle Lake
Elementary School. She is currently going through
hundreds of photographs for Photoshop editing, but
some of her work can be seen on the departmental
Facebook page.
In addition, she is always willing to volunteer her
time for the department and volunteered to work
both the SMC Open House and Campus Bash. After
Edge heard SMC faculty Andrew Dohm talk about
engineering at one of the mass advising meetings in
fall, she decided to switch majors to biomedical engineering.
Page 2
from page
1 ceremony
when she began as vice president of instruction and ultimately as chief operation officer
of the college. A product of a community college education herself, Dr. Chaddock is committed to the mission of the community college both personally and professionally.
Dr. Chaddock has a Doctorate in Higher
Education Administration from Western
Michigan University, a Master of Arts in
Science Education from Western Michigan
University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the State of New
York. She has published numerous articles on
outcomes assessment and is also a frequent
presenter on issues in higher education including the development of partnerships in
higher education; student retention; professional development for faculty and staff; and
strategies for organizational effectiveness. Dr.
Chaddock currently also serves as both a faculty member and advisory board member for
the Ferris State University Doctorate in ComMICHIGAN
Bangor
Associate in
Applied Science
Nidia Ruano
Baroda
Associate in
Applied Science
Alison Kerlikowske
Benton Harbor
Associate in Arts
Tilisa Anderson
Stephen Gunter
Kiasha Jones
Betty Sims
Associate in Science
Max Eberhart, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Trey Kilburnt,
Sandra Martinez
Katherine Phillips, honors
Timothy Pletz
Certificates
Tilisa Anderson
Max Eberhart
Stephen Gunter
Kiasha Jones
Charles Martinez
Aaron Ramsey
Betty Sims
Angela Wieand
Berrien Center
Associate in Arts
Cynthia Salome, honors
Associate in Science
Cynthia Salome, honors
Certificates
Cynthia Salome
Berrien Springs
Associate in Arts
Crystal Harrington, honors
Adam McGregor
Brittany Tanke
Stephanie Turney, honors
Amber VanLuvanee
Associate in Science
John Robertson, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Marlene Bourget
Krystal Davis
Ashley Handy
Benjamin Hausmann, honors
Jeremiah Hollis
Ryan Kubsch, honors
Ryan Marschke, honors
John Walters
Certificates
Krystal Davis
Crystal Harrington
Benjamin Hausmann
Austin Mays
Adam McGregor
Sanson Suarez
Brittany Tanke
Amber VanLuvanee
Bridgman
May 16, 2013
the southwester
Associate in Arts
Christina Evans, honors
Emily Mead
Mary Milliken
Rebecca Roth
Associate in Science
Brandon Ashley, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Erika Peterson, honors
Certificates
munity College Leadership program.
When describing Dr. Chaddock’s accomplishments, SMC President Dr. David
Mathews said, “Under her stewardship,
Southwestern Michigan College has implemented a culture of continuous quality improvement anchored in the college goals
of quality, student success and service to
the community. The success of this culture
change is evidenced by the ranking of the college in the top 10 percent of the nation in student course success and the top 2 percent of
the nation in student transfer success as well
as by record high enrollments.”
Jeffrey Whittaker, senior pastor of the
Michiana Christian Embassy, of Niles, gave
the invocation and benediction. The SMC
Symphonic Band, conducted by Dr. Jonathan
Korzun, and Select Voices, under the direction of David Carew, provided music for the
ceremony.
Christina Evans
Emily Mead
Mary Milliken
Rebecca Roth
Buchanan
Associate in Arts
Courtney Bennett
Alejandra Guerrero
Heather Martell, honors
Caitlin McCalebb
Courtney Miller, honors
Grace Williams
Associate in Science
Adam Byrdak
Associate in
Applied Science
Steven Andriukaitis, honors
Rikki Ferrell, honors
Leah Holleman
Vance Kittleson
Pamela Kuntz, honors
Brittany McBain
Cora-Lee Mervine
Joseph Samuel
Certificates
Jacob Allen
Courtney Bennett
Ramanda Benson
Jason Campbell
Rikki Ferrell
Alejandra Guerrero
Pamela Kuntz
Heather Martell
Cora-Lee Mervine
Jasmine Ward
Cassopolis
Associate in Arts
Tara Borsa
Brittany D’Antonio
Heather Ellis, honors
Elizabeth Graham
Katlyn Grumm
Meghan Haas, honors
Emily Hartsell
Amanda Higley, honors
Peter Hill
Heather Neu, honors
Kristen Williams
Associate in Science
Vincent Frank
Emily Hartsell
Associate in
Applied Science
Donald Adams
Michelle Canfield, honors
Christopher Carpenter
Holly Clark
Robin Danzy
Cassie Flora
Allison Hankins
Sherri Keefe
Audrea LaBaDie, honors
Joan Norman, honors
Jennifer Parrish, honors
Rick Pasley, honors
Victoria Peterson
Michele Poitras, honors
Donna Unolt
Lacy Wences
Certificates
Donald Adams
Michelle Canfield
Christopher Carpenter
Brittany D’Antonio
Elizabeth Graham
Katlyn Grumm
Meghan Haas
Emily Hartsell
Tina Hazlett
Amanda Higley
Michelle Mann
Nickole Martin
Heather Neu
Rick Pasley
Sherri See
Lacy Wences
Kristen Williams
Coloma
Associate in Arts
Bianca Wright, honors
Certificates
Bianca Wright
Constantine
Associate in Arts
Jennifer Jones, honors
Jonathan Morris
Associate in Science
Nicklas Barber, honors
Certificates
Nicklas Barber
Jennifer Jones
Decatur
Associate in Arts
Lauren Glynn, honors
Marissa Graham
Brook Krall, honors
Victor Rodriguez
Carin Wilber, honors
Associate in Science
Kristina Henderson, honors
Brook Krall, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Nychole Flowers
Kevin Holmes
Kevin Mead, honors
David Slavings
Sharon Stambek
Gary Stoll, honors
James Tidd, honors
Certificates
Dorrie Anderson
Nychole Flowers
Lauren Glynn
Brook Krall
Nolan Polomcak
David Slavings
James Tidd
Detroit
Associate in Arts
Chaseri Karamoko
Associate in Science
Chaseri Karamoko
Certificates
Chaseri Karamoko
Dowagiac
Associate in Arts
Kristen Armstrong
Mindy Armstrong
Shellie Bowlin
Bria Brookins
Rachel Carlisle, honors
Rebecca Craft, honors
Emanuel Custodio
Kelly Frantz
LeVance Henry
Joseph Larson
Samantha Mathews, honors
Sarah McCuddy, honors
Brooke Means
Paloma Medina Cano
Alex Miller
Eric Morton
Matthew Oosterwal, honors
Brittany Parritt, honors
Danyelle Rife
Justin Samuel
Tara Smith
Qatisha Stevenson
Lindsey Taylor
Jared Wesaw
Jessica Whitmore, honors
Diana Winchester
Associate in Science
Zachariah Blank
Paula Boyll
Shannon Keene, honors
Sarah McCuddy, honors
Qatisha Stevenson
Associate in
Applied Science
Anita Beach, honors
Tiffany Brooks, honors
Christopher Carlsen
Belinda Checkley
Dayna Coquillard
Beth Dayson, honors
Bethani Eichel, honors
Kelly Frantz
Jason Fricke
Jessica Gajewski
Mercedes Glynn
Elisabeth Gokey, honors
Lindsay Heidenreich, honors
Amanda Hobbs
John Hokanson, honors
Cherie Longden, honors
Drew Luthringer
Ardell Mahone
Jonathon Myers, honors
Emily Phillips, honors
Jonathan Reinhardt
Sheri Schoff
Danielle Taylor, honors
Erika Taylor, honors
Kaitlyn Tyrakowski
Ashley Weatherspoon
Ashley Williams, honors
Toby Yuhas, honors
Certificates
Kristen Armstrong
Zachariah Blank
Shellie Bowlin
Tiffany Brooks
Christopher Carlsen
George Coomes
Rebecca Craft
Beth Dayson
Kara Gaideski
Mercedes Glynn
Elisabeth Gokey
Antonette Green
Rachel Kelley
Rachael Kidman
Courtney Klann
Andrew Kurdelmeyer
Sara Lawrence
Drew Luthringer
Guadalupe Manzano
Danielle Martinez
Samantha Mathews
Sarah McCuddy
Paloma Medina Cano
Alex Miller
Sara Mosier
Jonathon Myers
Brittany Parritt
Tara Smith
Qatisha Stevenson
Lindsey Taylor
Krystin Weberg
Jared Wesaw
Jessica Whitmore
Eau Claire
Associate in Arts
Sydney Harner
Lauren Sandmire
Associate in Science
Tyler Harmon
Associate in
Applied Science
James Laubach, honors
Certificates
Sydney Harner
Sherrie Herter
Lauren Sandmire
Edwardsburg
Associate in Arts
Bryana Craig, honors
Timothy Maret, honors
Ashley Meuzelaar
Stephanie Null
Stefanie Roeder
Corina Savage
Sasha Westfall
Brittany Wright
Associate in Science
Ashley Meuzelaar
Stephanie Null
Associate in
Applied Science
Jill Bralick, honors
Benjamin Fahey
Calvin Hall
Aubrey Hiemstra
Christina Houser
Stacie Litty, honors
Stephanie Sellers, honors
Jessica Wallace
Janelle Wesley, honors
Jessica White
Certificates
Jacqueline Coots
Bryana Craig
Calvin Hall
Timothy Maret
Alyssa Muller
Corina Savage
Stephanie Sellers
Brittany Wright
Galien
Associate in Arts
David Reisenbichler, honors
Jacqueline Tschupp
Certificates
David Reisenbichler
Gobles
Associate in Arts
Rebecca Cramer, honors
Certificates
Rebecca Cramer
Grand Rapids
Associate in Arts
Jamal Abbey
Certificates
Jamal Abbey
ceremony continued on page 12
May 16, 2013
the southwester
Page 3
College accepts $2,500 donation to
establish Latourette Family Scholarship
A
n endowed scholarship, set up at Southwestern Michigan College to encourage others to develop a love for the fine
arts, has been established by the family of Ron
Latourette, a former Dowagiac Union School
math teacher who passed away last year.
Ron’s family, which includes his wife Bonnie,
and their sons, Ryan and Matt, donated $2,500 to
create the scholarship to honor his love of the fine
arts. The scholarship has since grown to $3,100.
All endowed scholarships of $2,500 or more up to
$25,000 are matched by the college’s Foundation,
ensuring that funds will always be available to students who have a financial need.
Bonnie described how a ceramics class at the
college years ago sparked a love of art that even after an accident left him a quadriplegic; she said he
continued to enjoy art.
Art has long been a family affair for the
Latourette family. Bonnie, who is a retired teacher
from the Dowagiac school system, taught art at
various grade levels, while Matt became interested
in art while studying at Michigan Technological
University and Ryan’s daughter has enjoyed art
classes at Michigan State University.
“It made sense then to establish a scholarship in
our family’s name to encourage other adults to find
the joy that comes from the creative process,” said
Bonnie. “We are hopeful that this scholarship will
help pave the way for others to develop a lifetime
involvement in the arts, be it studying the history
of art, learning appreciation of the artwork or actually creating pieces of artwork themselves.”
Bonnie Latourette, (second from right) her sons, Ryan, (to the left of Bonnie), and Matt (not picture) have created an
endowed scholarship at Southwestern Michigan College. Representing the college were Sarah Mathews, (far left)
a former student of Bonnie’s and wife of SMC President Dr. David Mathews (right).
“Seventy percent of our students are financial
needy. That’s seven out 10 of our students have
a real significant financial need,” said Dr. David
Mathews, president of Southwestern Michigan College. “Generous donations such as the Latourette
Family Scholarship ensure that students today and
in the future will have access to a college educa-
tion.”
For more information about Southwestern Michigan College Endowed Scholarships, contact the
college’s director of Development at 269-782-1301
or email her at etoney01@swmich.edu.
David Reisenbichler named Top Advocate for his speech
S
outhwestern Michigan College, David Reisenbichler, of Galien, was
named the Top Advocate for the college’s spring semester persuasive
speech competition. His topic was on why employers should not be
allowed to fire employees for refusing to get a flu shot.
SMC freshman Stephanie Cluster, of Watervliet, competed with
Reisenbichler for the top honor. She argued on the subject of banning
smoking on the SMC campus.
Reisenbichler, who beat out six other SMC students, received the award
after the final competition April 19. Judging the final competition was
Dr. Jashu Patel, the Hon. Susan Dobrich, Dr. Barbara Howes, and Rob
Kowalewski.
Reisenbichler, who graduated May 4 with an associate in arts and business degree, argued that as Americans we have the freedom to choose to
get the flu shot or not as determined by the Constitution. Citing statistics,
Reisenbichler said there is no proven data that shows that getting the flu
shot reduces the likelihood of a flu outbreak nationally.
The speech had to be 10 minutes and the speaker had to demonstrate
their ability to present an argument that was organized, and included an
introduction, conclusion and main points; clearly state their position on
the subject; and be able to deliver the speech at the level of a novice public
speaker.
Other semi-finalists were Stephanie Rich, Tim Giesler, Andrea
Nuemayer, Melina Manzie, and Leslie Adriance. Reisenbichler received the
award from Sarah Mathews, SMC’s adjunct speech instructor. All the students were enrolled in Speech 102 class.
David Reisenbichler, right, was named Top Advocate for his speech on why employers
should not be allowed to fire employees for refusing to get a flu shot. He is pictured
with Sarah Mathews, SMC communications instructor and organizer of the event.
SMC freshman Stephanie Cluster competed with Reisenbichler for the top honor.
Semi-finalist were Stephanie Rich, Tim Giesler, Andrea Nuemayer, Melina Manzie,
and Leslie Adriance.
Memory Project
First TPC grads
(L-R) SMC students Rick Pasley, Rebecca Scott, and Monica Bielski pose with the
finished artwork for the Memory Project. This is the third time art students have
participated in the project that provides students the chance to paint or draw a portrait
of an orphan. The artwork will be sent to Haiti orphans.
(L-R) Ferris graduates Vernon Austin, Courtney Livingston, Rachel Breden, and
Andrew Churchill are the first students to graduate from the Technical & Professional
Communication program through Ferris @ SMC. As part of their capstone project,
the four, along with student Jenelle Huskey presented their final portfolios with five
students from the Big Rapids campus. “They really were in the top of the pack,” said
instructor Karen Harris.
Page 4
the southwester
May 16, 2013
Congratulations 2013 Honor Students!
You’re ready to begin a new chapter in your life
May 16, 2013
S
Page 5
the southwester
SMC announces spring
2013 President’s & Dean’s lists
outhwestern Michigan College has named
the following students to the President’s List
for the 2013 spring semester. Students hon-
President’s List
MICHIGAN
Benton Harbor
Roy Kolinske
Nora Slavin
Berrien Center
Rebecca Dubs
Stephen Dubs
Berrien Springs
Andrew Miller
Taylor Whealy
Bridgman
Erika Peterson
Rebecca Roth
Laura Stama
Buchanan
Trevor Gray
Elizabeth Jones
Cassiddy Kendall
Richard Martin
Cassopolis
Tyler Butrick
Vincent Frank
Lorrie Gardner
Rick Pasley
Joanna Sommer
Coloma
Hannah Davis
Madeline Quinones
Constantine
Kevin Anderson
Nicklas Barber
Kerri Morris
Decatur
Brook Krall
Kevin Mead
Elexis Parish
Regina Phillips
Eric Reed
Dowagiac
Matthew Collins
Timothy Craig
Whitney Donaldson
Jessica Hannapel
Brittany Parritt
Mary Stewart
Jessica Whitmore
Eau Claire
Dakota Doberstein
James Laubach
Leah Tillstrom
Andria Wolske
Edwardsburg
Whitney Ellis
Victor Gutierrez-Schultz
Jessica Mitchell
Alyssa Nasco
June Niermann
Hartford
Lauren Dowd
Theo Haubold
Julia Kling
Keren Reyes
Faith Styx
Holly
Jamie Mason
Marcellus
Zachary Gunther
Niles
Ashlee Bielski
Holly Cowan
Christine Germann
Jonathan Gleason
Sean Gleason
Jordan Harris
Theresa Meador
Jeromie Morse
Caitlin Rifenberg
Lois Sattler
Emily Wagner
Amie Wilson
Paw Paw
Leslie Adriance
St. Joseph
Stephen McAndrew
Karen Munoz-Perez
Adam Tiefenbach
Stevensville
Maryam Al-Gassab
Alexia Mamouzelos
Three Rivers
Vercysia Jorge
Crystal Morrow
Vandalia
Cortney Ramsey
Watervliet
Stephanie Cluster
Alisha Mandarino
INDIANA
Elkhart
Valerie Emerson
Sara McCuddy
Granger
Emily Koszyk
Scott Marshall
South Bend
Andrew Popielski
Natalie Rodriguez
INTERNATIONAL
Accra, Ghana
Samuel Kwarteng
Dhaka, Bangladesh
George Kapali
Dean’s List
MICHIGAN
Bangor
Franciszek Pach
Baroda
Zachary Hays
Alison Kerlikowske
Hunter Krieger
Lindsay Lowery
Belleville
Andrea Marshall
Benton Harbor
Matthew Ross
Dustin Simon
Lawrence
Colin McLauchlin
Berrien Center
Cynthia Salome
Joseph Yoder
Roberta Zelmer
Lawton
Kerry Rimes
Berrien Springs
April Bishop
ored on the President’s List must earn a perfect
4.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale while carrying a full load of studies (at least 12 credits).
Students honored on the Dean’s List must earn a
minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale
while carrying a full load of studies.
Morgan Dollar
Shaina Elnick
Aldeana Foster
Patrick Grzybowski
Crystal Harrington
Skyler Johnson
Michaela Legg
Adam McGregor
Stephanie Rich
John Robertson
Kristin Rumer
Mendon
Colin Batten
Bridgman
Jacob Clark
Kyle Morrow
Winter Scheer
Melanie Watson
Bronson
Jorge Ramos Lopez
Buchanan
David Baltazar
Adam Byrdak
Morgan French
Cody Morris
Daniel Papczynski
Katherine Reitz
Thomas Seay
Chkuhmoen Topash
Jasmine Ward
Misty Whelpley
Grace Williams
Cassopolis
Joshua Ampey
Nathan Blad
Paula Carpenter
Faulnesa Cooper
Rebeca Diaz
Gavin Francis
Meghan Haas
Stanley Hart
Kevin Hatcher
Ashlie Herman
Amanda Higley
Audrea LaBaDie
Lawrence Litherland
Desirae Massey
Justin Massey
Renee Ottman
Michele Poitras
Sherri See
Lucky Thammavongsa
Coloma
Nathaniel Adams
Allison Corbin
Tyler Johnson
Yaneli Perez
Bianca Wright
Constantine
Monique Berg
Jennifer Jones
Kyle Workman
Decatur
Amanda Brewster
Jazzmine Gallas
Lauren Glynn
Nicole Holmes
Nolan Polomcak
Detroit
Amber April
Quentin Greenlee
Dorr
Megan Raya
Dowagiac
Dixie Adams
Zachariah Blank
Shannon Burkett
Fawn Bussler
Christopher Carlsen
Kevin Conley
Daniel Dudek
Kyle Dufour
Shelley Gordon
Zacharias Guernsey
Kyle Hemenway
Alexandra Hess
Kayla-Christine Hollowell
Rachael Kidman
Beverly Lockhart
Danielle Martinez
Samantha Mathews
Paloma Medina Cano
Taylor Meiser
Tasha Meyers
Jonathon Myers
Hannah Pacheco
Melissa Potter
Brandon Rapp
Brad Ruminer
Dawn Secord
Danny St Cin
Brian Stout
David Troxell
Kaitlyn Tyrakowski
Lindy Valenzuela
Toby Yuhas
Eau Claire
Rebekah Bartz
Jackson Harner
Courtney McGregor
Shawna Ridenour
Katherine Sage
Samuel Sanchez
Jeremy Sapp
Rebecca Scott
Edwardsburg
Amanda Barella
Jill Bralick
Jeffery Clark
Robin Craddock
Brandi Huskey
Michelle LaMore
Lacy Lentine
Stacie Litty
Andrew Madison
Emily Navarre
Rebecca Pace
Corina Savage
Nikholas Sedam
Heather Valentine
Cody Yoder
Hartford
Chadd Arthur
Janell Birmele
Julie Briney
Holly Kucharski
Emily Larsen
Iliana Lopez
Iron Mountain
Matthew Cumber
Jones
KaSandra Jackson
Lawrence
Rebekah Langworthy
Lawton
Rachel Mroz
Marcellus
Chelsea Small
Justin Sonnevil
Michael Spencer
Travis Utter
Kimberly VanSchoick
Marshall
Ariel Deitrich
New Buffalo
Shelby Sexton
Niles
Angela Anderson
Mirella Avila
Brandon Bailey
Dylan Baxter
Monica Bielski
Lee Brubaker
Michael Chappel
Lisa Cherrone
Ryan Clutter
Casey Cochran
Adam Dyczko
Alyssa Fritz
Valerie Garcia
Sara Gushwa
Brea Haines
Tyler Hartman
Jonathan Howe
Tearah Hutcheson
Sierra Intravia
Austin Knight
Kimberly Konold
Hunter Krueger
Alvin Kyles
Paige Linback
Valentine Lindzy
Brian Luke
Kimberly Marazita
Kaytlyn Miller
Amy Mills
Emily Mills
Hannah Mock
Brittney Molica
Jeffrey Nagy
Allyson Newlin
Austin Payne
Alexander Phillips
Patricia Rader
Kacy Reeves
William Riley
Brandon Rouse
Kristin Ruff
Rosario Sergio
Aaron Sieting
Warren Simpson
Abigail Stickney
Stephanie Vernier
Paw Paw
Erica Haselberger
Yee Moua
John Wolff
Three Rivers
Anna Balog
Delaney Beekmans
Bryann Books
Paul Chamberlain
Nicholas Holden
Matthew Jacobs
Union
Kent Rodman
Kimberly Ryans
Vandalia
Kellie Bienz
Anna Brock
Scotty Chandler
Kelly Farr
Abigail Wall
Waterford
Nicole Kessman
Watervliet
Jessica Dudek
White Pigeon
Mary Yoder
INDIANA
Bristol
Chelsey Lynch
Melissa McClain
Elkhart
Devinne Storm
Goshen
Rolando Alcaraz
Justus Brinkerhoff
Granger
Tyler Anthony
Michael Bronsing
Kerry Frazier
Alexander Horning
Alexander King
Sarah Ready
Lakeville
Harrison Huys
Mishawaka
Lorraine Peterson
Tyler Powell
Kennedy Runyan
Nappanee
Holly Wilson
Plainwell
Amanda Haase
Osceola
Natasha Butler
Sawyer
Allyson Wittenburg
South Haven
Kendall Jasper
South Bend
Patsy Barfield
Jason Bonner
Hannah Chlebek
Alexander Jackson
Southfield
Rashaud Walker
Syracuse
Kaitlin Powell
Stevensville
Laura Deloria
Craig Fowler
OUT OF STATE
Charlotte,
North Carolina
Rachel Gargagliano
Sturgis
Jolei Menter
Three Oaks
Tyler Allen
Alexander Ehlert
Heather Lester
INTERNATIONAL
Seoul, Korea
Induck Lee
Page 6
the southwester
A Time for
Celebration!
Photos by Dennis Hafer and Ann Burch
May 16, 2013
May 16, 2013
the southwester
Page 7
Page 8
May 16, 2013
the southwester
113 students honored for
high academic achievement
S
outhwestern Michigan College recognized
113 students who graduated with honors at
the college’s 46th commencement May 4.
The annual SMC Honor Reception, held in the
Fred L. Mathews Conference Center East, showcased students who earned a cumulative grade
point average of 3.5 or higher.
“Every year Southwestern Michigan College
takes pride in the quality of education it is able to
give its students,” said college President Dr. David
Mathews, who welcomed the students, their families and friends to the event. “This quality speaks
for itself by the number of students graduating
with honors each year. It is SMC’s goal to ensure
its students have a solid educational foundation
when they transfer to another university or enter
the workforce.”
Honor student Jennifer Jones, of Constantine,
was also recognized as representing the college on
the All-Michigan Academic.
The guest speaker for the reception was Dr.
Stacy Horner, chair of the college’s School of Business. Dr. Horner, who has a doctorate in leadership
MICHIGAN
Benton Harbor
Max Eberhart
Katherine Phillips
Berrien Center
Cynthia Salome
Berrien Springs
Crystal Harrington
Benjamin Hausmann
Ryan Kubsch
Ryan Marschke
John Robertson
Stephanie Turney
Bridgman
Brandon Ashley
Christina Evans
Erika Peterson
Buchanan
Steven Andriukaitis
Rikki Ferrell
Pamela Kuntz
Heather Martell
Courtney Miller
Cassopolis
Michelle Canfield
Heather Ellis
Meghan Haas
Amanda Higley
Audrea LaBaDie
Heather Neu
Joan Norman
Jennifer Parrish
Rick Pasley
Michele Poitras
Coloma
Bianca Wright
Constantine
Nicklas Barber
Jennifer Jones
Decatur
Lauren Glynn
Kristina Henderson
Brook Krall
Kevin Mead
Gary Stoll
James Tidd
Carin Wilber
Dowagiac
Anita Beach
Tiffany Brooks
Rachel Carlisle
Rebecca Craft
Beth Dayson
Bethani Eichel
Elisabeth Gokey
Lindsay Heidenreich
John Hokanson
Shannon Keene
Cherie Longden
Samantha Mathews
with an emphasis on higher education administration from Andrews University, has taught business
classes at SMC since 2005.
Musical entertainment was provided by the
college’s Select Voices, directed by David Carew,
SMC’s director of Choral Music.
Dr. Horner told honor students that they are
“the best of the best.
“You have just finished your first chapter and
like any first chapter of a good book, it should get
you interested in the entire book.”
Dr. Horner described how she is a goal setter
and while many students may feel like they are
finished or want to take a break, they should enjoy their new role as graduate but still consider the
next chapter.
Describing her journey a few years ago to China
and Japan, Dr. Horner told students she climbed
the Great Wall in “of all things, flip-flops instead of
supportive Addis. But I kept climbing.”
“We all need support,” Dr. Horner said. “You
needed support to get here today. Sometimes you
wanted to stop, go out with friends instead of
Sarah McCuddy
Jonathon Myers
Matthew Oosterwal
Brittany Parritt
Emily Phillips
Danielle Taylor
Erika Taylor
Jessica Whitmore
Ashley Williams
Toby Yuhas
Eau Claire
James Laubach
Edwardsburg
Jill Bralick
Bryana Craig
Stacie Litty
Timothy Maret
Stephanie Sellers
Janelle Wesley
Galien
David Reisenbichler
Gobles
Rebecca Cramer
Hartford
Lauren Dowd
Jones
Derek Bent
Robert Ross
Lawton
Rachel Mroz
Dr. Stacy Horner, chair of Southwestern Michigan
College’s School of Business, addresses the college’s
honor students, their family, and college staff during the
Honor Reception Thursday.
studying, but kept climbing towards your goal.”
Dr. Horner concluded that the climb will always
be long and hard, but worth it; especially when you
get started and finish strong.
“Today, is the next chapter in your life.”
Below are the honor graduates listed by home
town:
Marcellus
Cody Mikel
Jesica Mitchell
Kelsey Steinkraus
New Buffalo
Shelby Sexton
Niles
Donnie Batman
Ashlee Bielski
Nicholas Bowker
Andrew Eckstein
Amanda Grice
Cole Hensel
Desire Ingabire
S Jones
Julie Kater
Samuel Petersen
Courtney Reed
William Riley
Brandon Rouse
James Schrader
Lance Shortman
Emily Wagner
Sarah Weatherburn
Portage
Brooke Schoudt
Pullman
Trevor Schewe
St. Joseph
David Brown
Livia Mussi
Sodus
Lisa McCaig
Union
Shirley Hood
Richard LeCount
Kent Rodman
Vandalia
Lila Cox
INDIANA
Elkhart
Adriana Sanchez
Valerie Emerson
Sara McCuddy
Goshen
Johanna Johnston
Granger
Anastasija Kristala
Michael Welsch
Nappanee
Melissa Martin
Osceola
Dylan Souza
South Bend
Shawna Kellogg
Hannah Marquardt
Angela Rampi
Southwestern Michigan College honors Jennifer Jones
T
he Southwestern Michigan College Board
of Trustees recognized Jennifer Jones, of
Constantine, for her representation of the
college on the 2013 All-Michigan Academic Team.
Jones, 20, graduated with honors May 4. She is also
a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
SMC President Dr. David Mathews presented
Jones with a certificate of recognition from the college. Jones will earn an Associate in Arts degree.
She plans on transferring to a four-year university
to study secondary education/English. Her career
goal is to become a high school English teacher.
Jones has been on the President’s List and Dean’s
List while at SMC.
Jones said she came to SMC because it was
close to home and affordable.
“This gave me the chance to ease into the college experience and to save money so I could move
on to a higher institution at a later date,” she said.
“I also learned to balance responsibilities such as
work and school.”
While at SMC, Jones worked one summer at a
YMCA Camp in northern Wisconsin. She said she
used her public speaking skills she learned from
her speech class at SMC.
“During the class, I had a rather rough time,”
Jones said. “But once I had a true reason to apply
it, however, it began to come more naturally. The
camp is designed for families, so as a counselor,
I would have to speak in front of large groups of
mixed ages and races, answer questions, and impart certain pieces of knowledge that campers had
come to learn. I feel more able to take on different
speaking situations now, thanks to this experience.”
Jones also played in the college’s Symphonic
and Brass bands as well as the Jazz Ensemble. She
also has had a leadership role within the music/
drama department at her church.
SMC’s Band Director Dr. Jonathan Korzun described Jones as demonstrating “a high level of maturity, focus, and motivation.”
Jones was honored recently during the annual
Phi Theta Kappa Awards luncheon in Lansing as
part of the 2013 All-Michigan Academic Team.
Jones was selected based on academic achievement, community service involvement, and leadership accomplishment.
The state academic teams, a division of the Academic All-American Team for community, technical, and junior college students, is an international
program sponsored annually by Phi Theta Kappa,
USA TODAY and the American Association of
Community Colleges. All-State Team members
receive special recognition including medallions,
certificates, and scholarships.
Southwestern Michigan College President Dr. David
Mathews presented a certificate of recognition to student
Jennifer Jones who was nominated to the 2013
All-Michigan Academic Team.
May 16, 2013
Photos by Dennis Hafer
the southwester
Page 9
Campus Bash Spring 2013
Page 10
the southwester
Spring art students
honored for their work
S
outhwestern Michigan College’s Fine Arts
Department presented merit and scholarship awards to outstanding fine art students
at SMC’s Student Art Show in April. The show was
judged by Brian Makowski, a Delton-Kellogg High
School art teacher and SMC alumnus. SMC President Dr. David Mathews handed out the awards to
students.
The $300 Mina Scholarship Award was given
to Tyler Smith for his charcoal drawing. Monica
Bielski received the coveted ‘Pfliger Award’ for her
drawing. Bielski received a toaster and a check for
$49.95 from the Pfliger Foundation
“We give this award to a piece of work that
would look nice on our wall,” said Terry Pfliger,
SMC art instructor.
Pfliger also awarded $10.43, collected from students, to Jill Bralick for her work. The award is presented by the Regroupement d’ Artistes.
Three students were given top honors by their
peers for their work in ceramics. Timothy Craig,
Faith Styx, and Ben Frank were recognized by
Sherri Styx, ceramics instructor.
The following is the list of students who received
merit awards.
Judge’s Merit Awards
2-D Design: Jessika Clement and
Katherine Reitz.
Advanced Drawing: Rick Pasley.
Ceramics: Timothy Craig and Johanna Johnson.
Digital Photography: Jacqueline Baker,
Holly Cowan, James Laubach, Paige Linback,
and Carla Nagy.
Digital Publishing: Valentine Lindzy and
Laura Stama.
Directed Study Painting: Johanna Johnson.
Drawing: Tyler Smith, Jessica Knapp, and
Madison Stubbs.
Graphic Design: Kortney Huston, Kyle James,
and Rick Pasley.
Photographic Design: Valerie Adams,
and Carson Daum.
Typography: Valentine Lindzy, Kerri Morris,
and Naomi Stevenson.
Watercolor: Paige Linback and Rick Pasley.
Watercolor II: Pam Alphenaar.
May 16, 2013
May 16, 2013
The
Southwester
Read the Southwester online at
www.swmich.edu/southwester
Volume 49, No. 7, May 16, 2013
SMC Marketing Department
Published for students,
faculty, staff and friends of
Southwestern Michigan College
Dowagiac campus
58900 Cherry Grove Road
Dowagiac, MI 49047
Niles Area Campus
3380 U.S. Highway 12
Niles, MI 49120
Submissions
Students, faculty, and staff of
Southwestern Michigan College
are encouraged to submit
electronically story ideas, articles,
reviews, photos, and/or graphic
images to swester@swmich.edu.
Comments, suggestions, and
Letters to the Editor are always
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and do not reflect those of the
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or Southwestern Michigan
College. Letters to the Editor
should be no more than 300
words in length and should
include the writer’s name,
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usage pertaining to abbreviations,
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Send editorial submissions to
swester@swmich.edu.
The Southwester
office is located in Suite 2105
of the College Services Building
on the Dowagiac campus.
The Southwester
Editorial Staff
Editor
Ann Burch
Phone: 269.782.1457
Email: aburch@swmich.edu
Southwestern
Michigan College
Board of Trustees
Dr. Fred L. Mathews, Chairman
Keith McKenzie, Vice Chairman
William White, Secretary
Thomas F. Jerdon, Treasurer
Beth J. Cripe, Trustee
Paul D. File, Trustee
Becky L. Moore, Trustee
College President
Dr. David M. Mathews
Southwestern Michigan College
is accredited by the Higher
Learning Commission of the
North Central Association of
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The Southwester reserves the right
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© Copyright 2013 by
Southwestern Michigan College
the southwester
Page 11
Page 12
from page
2 ceremony
Harbert
Associate in Arts
Kathryn Rosenbaum
Hartford
Associate in Arts
Joseph Baumeister
Lauren Dowd, honors
Julianne Oliver
Jessica Rosses
Associate in Science
Joseph Baumeister
Associate in
Applied Science
Alicia Johnson
Mark Styx
Certificates
Joseph Baumeister
Lauren Dowd
Alicia Johnson
Shannon Oliver
Jones
Associate in Arts
Corianne Fisher
KaSandra Jackson
Associate in
Applied Science
Derek Bent, honors
Wendy Mulder
Robert Ross, honors
Certificates
Derek Bent
Corianne Fisher
Nicole Hiscock
Kalamazoo
Associate in Science
Collin Kiessel
Associate in
Applied Science
Manohar Basnet
Danielle Bular
Certificates
Collin Kiessel
Lawrence
Associate in
Applied Science
Kelsey Filip
Melina Manzie
Kelsey Overley
Ellen Thomas
Lawton
Associate in Arts
Justin McCray
Megan Mikel
Associate in
Applied Science
Rachel Mroz, honors
Sharon Whitfield-Yancy
Certificates
Justin McCray
Megan Mikel
Rachel Mroz
Marcellus
Associate in Arts
Erin Brown
Hannah Reuter
Bryn Shugars
Donald Smith
Justin Sonnevil
Zachry Williams
Associate in Science
April Lewis
Cody Mikel, honors
Jesica Mitchell, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Tamey Scoggin
Kelsey Steinkraus, honors
Certificates
April Lewis
Cody Mikel
Bryn Shugars
Donald Smith
Zachry Williams
Mattawan
Associate in Arts
Shirley Thomas
Certificates
Shirley Thomas
New Buffalo
Associate in Arts
Shelby Sexton, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Marcus Rosenbaum
Shelby Sexton, honors
Certificates
Marcus Rosenbaum
Shelby Sexton
Zach Sutton
Niles
May 16, 2013
the southwester
Associate in Arts
Japhet Acheampong
Kaitlyn Andrews
Paw Paw
Jamie Biggs
Anna Billingsley
Charles Billingsley
Carrie Brooks
Kyle Bruegmann
Arielle Colcord
Lisa Demeulenaere
June Dos Santos
Andrew Eckstein, honors
Fawn Fisher
James Fortuna
Valerie Garcia
Christine Germann
Dakota Harding
Kimberly Hodges
Rachel Holloway
Tearah Hutcheson
Desire Ingabire, honors
Sophia Jackson
Tyler Knisely
Chelsey Manis
Kimberly Marazita
Nicholas Mathias
Nicole Mayer
Michael Morse
Tawana Nash
Michele Prillwitz
Barbara Shelton
Julie Snodgrass-Haney
Emily Wagner, honors
Sarah Weatherburn, honors
Associate in Science
Japhet Acheampong
Andrew Eckstein, honors
Fawn Fisher
Michael Morse
Brittney Patterson
Sean Stark
Associate in
Applied Science
Vernis Absher
Brandon Bailey
Shane Bankston
Donnie Batman, honors
Ashlee Bielski, honors
Nicholas Bowker, honors
Shana Chrismon
Cricket Fisher
James Fortuna
Kristi Gerdes
Amanda Grice, honors
Shannon Guyott
Cole Hensel, honors
Kimberly Hodges
S. Jones, honors
Julie Kater, honors
William Kreutz
Claudia Mills
Jeromie Morse
Samuel Petersen, honors
Courtney Reed, honors
William Riley, honors
Tammy Ropp
Brandon Rouse, honors
James Schrader, honors
Lance Shortman, honors
Penny Smith
Leah Virgil
Moira Weaver
Certificates
Shane Bankston
Donnie Batman
Ashlee Bielski
Anna Billingsley
Andrew Bizoe
Caitlin Brady
Carrie Brooks
Arielle Colcord
David Edwards
Marki Firth
James Fortuna
Valerie Garcia
Christine Germann
Sara Gibson
Amanda Grice
Dakota Harding
Randi Hoffman
Tearah Hutcheson
Sophia Jackson
Joseph Kaiser
Julie Kater
James Kinas
William Kreutz
Hunter Krueger
Christina Low
Chelsey Manis
Kimberly Marazita
Nicole Mayer
Jonathan Mitchell
Tony Moffitt
Jeromie Morse
Michael Morse
Ashley Motuelle
Tawana Nash
Chelsea Powers
Barbara Shelton
Julie Snodgrass-Haney
Sean Stark
Madeline Stelter
Emily Wagner
Lynda Ward
Kelsey Wells
Associate in Arts
Jamila Gipson
Christopher Nix
Associate in
Applied Science
Ashley Walko
Benjamin Wood
Certificates
Sunny Mercie
Christopher Nix
Shannon Ross
Certificates
Leisa Mann
Kent Rodman
Vandalia
Certificates
Mallory Cribley
Associate in Arts
Abigail Wall
Associate in Science
Lila Cox, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Abigail Wall
Certificates
Lila Cox
Abigail Wall
Vicky Woods
Portage
Watervliet
Associate in Arts
Brooke Schoudt, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Kellie Wilson
Pullman
White Pigeon
Pinconning
Associate in
Applied Science
Trevor Schewe, honors
Certificates
Trevor Schewe
Saugatuck
Associate in Arts
Robert Krause
Certificates
Robert Krause
Sodus
Associate in
Applied Science
Lisa McCaig honors
Certificates
Lisa McCaig
South Haven
Associate in Arts
Robert Nugent
Torrence Sanders
Associate in
Applied Science
Jacqueline Velazco
Certificates
Robert Nugent
Torrence Sanders
Stevensville
Associate in Arts
Melissa Otten
Associate in
Applied Science
Tyler Dragomer
Dulcie Stormo
Certificates
Tyler Dragomer
Melissa Otten
St. Joseph
Associate in Arts
David Brown, honors
Zoey Darnelle
Livia Mussi, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Amanda Crow
Melody Smith
Meredith Swart
Certificates
Amanda Crow
Alex Dine
Sturgis
Associate in
Applied Science
Jolei Menter
Three Oaks
Associate in Arts
Heather Lester
Jason Lumley
Associate in Science
Jason Lumley
Alexander White
Certificates
Heather Lester
Jason Lumley
Three Rivers
Associate in
Applied Science
Oliver Gabbeart
Kylee Knapp
Certificates
Dylan Cornish
Oliver Gabbeart
Andrew Labencki
Trey Lint
Union
Associate in Arts
Leisa Mann
Megan Mays
Kent Rodman, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Shirley Hood, honors
Richard LeCount, honors
Associate in Arts
Brandy Miller
Associate in
Applied Science
Tracy Denney
Certificates
Brandy Miller
INDIANA
Elkhart
Associate in Arts
Elizabeth Avery
Kristen Curtin
Valerie Emerson, honors
Sara McCuddy, honors
Adriana Sanchez, honors
Sarah Weigold
Certificates
Valerie Emerson
Sara McCuddy
Sarah Weigold
Goshen
Associate in
Applied Science
Johanna Johnston, honors
Granger
Associate in Arts
Emily Horvath
Anastasija Kristala, honors
Michael Welsch, honors
Associate in
Applied Science
Lyndsie Perkins
Certificates
Alexander King
Michael Welsch
LaPorte
Associate in
Applied Science
Austin Adams
Jacob Gast
Certificates
Jacob Gast
Mishawaka
Associate in Arts
Travis Leemreis
Richard Obeng
Associate in Science
Richard Obeng
Associate in
Applied Science
Gary Glassford
Certificates
Travis Davis
Richard Obeng
Nappanee
Associate in
Applied Science
Melissa Martin, honors
Kendrea Weaver
Osceola
Associate in
Applied Science
Dylan Souza, honors
South Bend
Associate in Arts
Candise Lassus
Hannah Marquardt, honors
April Milcoff
Marisia Pulkowski
Angela Rampi, honors
Associate in Science
Natalie Rodriguez
Associate in
Applied Science
Melissa Fleming
Shawna Kellogg, honors
Certificates
Maryann Good
Michael Noonan
Natalie Rodriguez
INTERNATIONAL
Associate in Arts
Catherine Kabui; Limuru, Kenya
Certificates
Catherine Kabui; Limuru, Kenya
Samuel Kwarteng; Accra, Ghana
Daniel Bau; Nakuru, Kenya
Ferris State University @ SMC grads
Twenty-five Bachelor of Science degrees from Ferris State University at
Southwestern Michigan College will also be awarded May 4.
Graduates from the cooperative bachelor’s degree program through Bethel
College will receive their degrees during the commencement ceremony on the
college’s Mishawaka, Ind. campus.
Bachelor of Science in
Accountancy/ Public
Accounting
Buchanan
Karen Cole
Melanie Roberson
(Summa Cum Laude)
Dowagiac
Londa Collins
Emily Utermark
Edwardsburg
Shawna Kelley
Katrina Rule
Mishawaka, Ind.
Shreyas Shekhar
(Summa Cum Laude)
Niles
Lisa Demeulenaere (Cum Laude)
Jeremy Jankoviak
Sheryl Miller (Summa Cum Laude)
Bridget Tuohy-Thomas
Sarah Weatherburn (Cum Laude)
Paw Paw
Paige Gardner (Magna Cum Laude)
St. Joseph
Lilia Adame
Vandalia
Stacy Gless (Cum Laude)
Watervliet
Laura Baumeister
(Summa Cum Laude)
Bachelor of Science in
Business Administration
Berrien Springs
Lisa Jackson-Mitchell
Granger, Ind.
Sarah Popovich
Hartford
Amber Kirby
Marcellus
Brian New (Cum Laude)
Niles
Tyler Duncan
Kathleen Schuelke
Katie Smallwood
Bachelor of Science in
Computer Information
Systems
Dowagiac
James Vroman
Niles
Nicole Hunt
Bachelor of Science in
Technical and Professional Communication
Dowagiac
Andrew Churchill
Courtney Livingston
(Magna Cum Laude)
Edwardsburg
Rachel Breden
(Summa Cum Laude)
Niles
Vernon Austin (Cum Laude)