spring arbor university: journal spring 2014

THE CONCEPT SPRING ARBOR UNIVERSITY IS A COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS DISTINGUISHED BY OUR LIFELONG INVOLVEMENT IN THE STUDY AND APPLICATION OF THE LIBERAL ARTS, TOTAL COMMITMENT TO JESUS CHRIST AS THE PERSPECTIVE FOR LEARNING, AND CRITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD. THE CONCEPT SPRING ARBOR UNIVERSITY IS A COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS DISTINGUISHED BY OUR LIFELONG INVOLVEMENT IN THE STUDY AND APPLICATION OF THE LIBERAL ARTS, TOTAL COMMITMENT TO JESUS CHRIST AS THE PERSPECTIVE FOR LEARNING, AND CRITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD. THE CONCEPT SPRING ARBOR UNIVERSITY IS A COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS DISTINGUISHED BY OUR LIFELONG INVOLVEMENT IN THE STUDY AND APPLICATION OF THE LIBERAL ARTS, TOTAL COMMITMENT TO JESUS CHRIST AS THE PERSPECTIVE FOR LEARNING, AND CRITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD. THE CONCEPT SPRING ARBOR UNIVERSITY IS A COMMUNITY OF LEARNERS DISTINGUISHED BY OUR LIFELONG INVOLVEMENT IN THE STUDY AND APPLICATION OF THE LIBERAL ARTS, TOTAL COMMITMENT TO JESUS CHRIST AS THE PERSPECTIVE FOR LEARNING, AND CRITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD.

A S P R I N G A R B O R U N I V E R S I T Y P U B L I C AT I O N

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SPRING 2014 | VOLUME 37 ISSUE 2ournal

Countering BUSINESS CULTURE GREED

STEM CELL BOOKBiochemistry professor writes book regarding the stem cell debate

PURSUING WISDOMBrent Ellis shares vision for SAU at his inauguration

BUILDING A CASESAU’s CASE program helps youth impacted by autism

SPRING 2014ournal

E D I TO R Julie (Spencer ’04) [email protected]

D E S I G NMichelle Albert ’15 Aaron Moore

W R I T E R S

Lynne Markiewicz Susan Panak ’12Kelly Skarritt-Williams ’03Julie (Spencer ’04) Tison Sydney Williams ’13

P H OTO G R A P H YMichelle Albert ’15 Brandon McCarrell ’12

M A R K E T I N G & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S

Malachi CraneAssistant Vice President

U N I V E R S I T Y A D VA N C E M E N T

Doug WilcoxsonExecutive Vice President Rhonda (Davis ’94) SaurbekAssistant Vice President

The JOURNAL (volume 37, issue 2) is published for the alumni and friends of Spring Arbor University. SAU is a private, Christian liberal arts university, affiliated with the Free Methodist Church of North America.For information on alumni, the Arbor Fund, major gifts, planned giving, Corporate Partners program, external relations, church relations or to change contact information, please call or email Sherry Keeler in the Office of University Advancement at 877.SAU.1873 or [email protected].

[email protected]

University Admissions800.968.0011arbor.edu

T H E C O N C E P T

Spring Arbor University is a community of learners distinguished by our lifelong involvement in the study and application of the liberal arts, total commitment to Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning, and critical participation in the contemporary world.

office of the president

Brent Ellis, Ed.D.PRESIDENT

Dear alumni and friends,

Greetings to you all from Spring Arbor University. Spring is a wonderful season here in Michigan. The grass is beginning to grow, flowers are in bloom and we are

hopeful that the final remnant of snow in our western parking lot will be gone by graduation. While I am joking about our snow, I am genuinely excited about our spring graduation.

We will again graduate over 700 students sending them to all four corners of our world prepared both as professionals and as ambassadors of Christ Jesus. Pursuing wisdom is not merely a phrase here at SAU, but it captures the heart and soul of our institution. We are not interested in providing knowledge for knowledge sake, but in aiding our students with how to

apply their knowledge in ways that accomplish God’s redemptive work within his creation. Wisdom is knowledge applied justly and our graduates scattered all over our globe are prepared to live lives of wisdom.

In this issue we are highlighting many points of celebration at SAU. From academic achievements to athletic accomplishments, our students perform well. Along with our current students, we are relating how many of our graduates live out lives of wisdom within their workplace. While we only have space to explore two stories in a significant manner, I am confident that many of you live out your faith in compelling ways and are impacting your sphere of influence for Christ.

Our Spring Arbor University family is now 38,000 people strong. As each of us is faithful within our work, family and life, it is amazing how we serve corporately as the body of Christ. Thank you for living lives of wisdom and applying the knowledge you gained in a just manner.

God’s blessings,

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CENTENNIAL GARDEN FEATURES SPRING ARBOR UNIVERSITY’S ICONIC SCULPTURE BY JAMES SNYDER.

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4 Countering business culture greedThe Gainey School of Business continues to graduate students who serve companies, both big and small. Read about two graduates and one student who exemplify excellence within the program.

Building a CASE for autismA student-led initiative, SAU’s CASE program helps youth impacted by autism and helps raise awareness around the community.

Pursuing wisdom: Inauguration recapBrent D. Ellis became Spring Arbor University’s 30th president in 2013. Dr. Ellis shared his vision during the inaugural ceremony.

Cougar athletes compete on national levelSpring Arbor University Athletics continues to make a name for the university by placing well at the national level. Read more about some of the recent successes of several Cougars.

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18 arbor today: read about the latest Spring Arbor University news

20 cougar zone: see how our athletes are breaking records

22 SAU photos: relive SAU events and happenings through this photo collage

25 alumni news: catch up on old friends, alumni news and notices

COVER AND FEATURE PHOTOS BY: BRANDON MCCARRELL ’12 [ + ]

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a 15-year work tradition of traveling around the country and the world to help other companies. In 2011, his consultant work led him to Eli Lilly, an American global pharmaceutical company with headquarters located in Indianapolis. Walker helped Eli Lilly launch a new Alzheimer’s diagnostic throughout the United States. When the project was first presented to him to bid on, Walker fought hard to win it. “My mother passed away from Alzheimer’s, so it was a project I really wanted,” said Walker. After securing the job, Walker set out to work on the project for 8-11 weeks, but it developed into a lengthier project. Walker helped kick start the product that can help properly diagnose Alzheimer’s. The radioactive product, Amyvid, helps detect amyloid plaque on the brain. Accurate diagnosis can help families to better plan for the future. Amyvid has a very short shelf life, so finding the right locations to manufacture and deliver the timely drug was one of Walker’s roles. Fourteen months later, Walker stood back as he thought about what he calls his capstone project. “I was able to combine my finance background with my supply chain knowledge and my passion to fight Alzheimer’s,” said Walker. After the project’s completion, Eli Lilly offered him a full-time position. After working as a consultant, where he traveled non-

stop, Walker has found a home at Eli Lilly. “This is my dream job,” said Walker. “Most days as I leave the office, I am pinching my arm because it doesn’t seem real.” Walker works just 1.3 miles from his home in downtown Indianapolis. The grocery store where he and his wife shop, it’s just down the block and so are several of their favorite restaurants. Walker is now helping to launch the product in Europe. While his career has been marked by one success after another, Walker never compromised his Christian roots to get ahead. Even in his current role, Walker noted the opportunity to talk about Lent with a Catholic colleague. He is happy to work within a good culture of people who want to help patients enjoy better lives. “If you find a job you love, it’s fun to go to work,” said Walker, who also enjoys getting lost for hours within spreadsheets. SAU graduates are able to conquer new skills if required to succeed in whatever life throws their way.

Too often the latest business news headlines are filled with stories about allegations of corruption, lies and deceit as professionals allow greed and a “win-at-all-cost” mentality to take over their desire to succeed. Spring Arbor University hopes to change that culture by graduating students who aspire for more than climbing the corporate ladder. Our graduates run businesses that counter the greed that has marred the business industry over time. Don Walker ’78 knows logistics. He also knows the automotive industry and international business practices. Most importantly, he knows Christ. Thanks to his faith, Walker navigated the devastation of a mid-career job loss knowing, through faith, that something greater was ahead. Right after his Spring Arbor graduation, Walker went to work at Rockwell Automotive in financial-oriented roles. After many years with the company, Walker shifted

his professional focus toward materials and supply chain. Ultimately, he was recruited by one of his

suppliers for a management role in a logistics company. This required a move back to

Michigan. He was working for Ryder Integrated Logistics for just 18 months

when he, and nearly 2,000 others, was let go in a company-wide cutback.

Even though losing his job wasn’t expected, Walker would likely be

quick to say the Lord’s path is often better than anything we

could plan. The Saturday after losing

his job at Ryder, a new door opened for Walker to begin working as a

supply chain consultant for Coopers and

Lybrand (eventually acquired by IBM).

He began

by Julie Tison

successful alumni

Since Shaun Page ’06 was 6-years-old, he has known his professional passion — to own and operate a Chick-fil-A Restaurant. As a son of teachers, Page and his three siblings always piled in a van with their parents to drive down to South Carolina to visit his grandparents. ”Chick-fil-A was the only restaurant we all loved,” said Page. “For as long as I can remember, I have loved their food, the clean environment we have always encountered and the Christian principles on which the restaurant was founded.”

Fast forward a couple of decades (give or take) and Page’s dream became a reality in July 2013. He is now the owner of the Chick-fil-A in Davenport, Iowa. Reaching his ultimate goal was no small feat. Page began the process three years ago as one of nearly 20,000 candidates applying to Chick-fil-A’s

management development program to become an owner. He was one of hundreds accepted into the program. As an interim owner, for the first year Page traveled to five stores throughout the Midwest. He then worked directly under an owner in Memphis, Tenn., for two years to finish out the program.

As a graduate of SAU’s Gainey School of Business, Page’s dream career was delayed when he was diagnosed with leukemia during his senior year in college. Since there were no nearby Chick-fil-A restaurants in Michigan and staying close to home for treatment was a must, Page started his career at Alro Steel in Jackson, Mich., a position he nailed down following a college internship.

In addition to his internship, Page took advantage of the Gainey School of Business’ investment group

as one of the student founders. Page, who also played golf at SAU, recalls the small class sizes and the Christian faith for helping him establish — or reinforce — his own career goals. “The relationships I developed even beyond the classroom helped me. It was amazing to surround myself with believers in small class settings,” said Page.

Page continues to surround himself with people of integrity as he owns and runs the popular restaurant that stands behind its faith foundation. Page and his wife, Meg (Peters ’05), live in Davenport with their two sons.

The foundational elements that helped Walker and Page become successful business leaders continue to help current students.

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DePoy continues to look for a permanent job after her May graduation, but her résumé is full of quality work experiences thanks to hands-on curriculum within the Gainey School of Business. “I have completed several client projects that have helped me learn the best ways to work with people while I practice the principles I am also reading about in class.” said DePoy.

“My personal framework for business as missions includes helping responsibly, ministering with presence and becoming a Kingdom professional. It is my hope that my faith permeates every aspect of my life — from family to vocation,” said DePoy.

Spring Arbor University’s Gainey School of Business aggressively pursues and develops programs that push students to start perfecting their professional skills long before they graduate. With six undergraduate majors on campus and the Master of Business Administration, which is offered at 10 locations throughout Michigan and online, Gainey School of Business programs are accredited and relevant to today’s business world. The emphasis on incorporating the Christian faith into the curriculum has been Spring Arbor University’s niche since its inception. That faith integration has made an impact on students and graduates for decades.

COMBINING MISSIONS AND BUSINESSSenior Rachel DePoy (New Hudson, Mich.) became an international business student by default more than by any long-term goal. “I was looking for the broadest career path I could find,” said DePoy. So when she took Caleb Chan’s international business course, which studied the business field as missions work, she felt at home.

DePoy has completed two internships as a student. During a semester in Guatemala, she interned for a bilingual preschool where she performed administrative marketing and had a chance to practice conversational Spanish while helping the native Guatemalans practice English.

Even though her other internship was within the United States, DePoy worked with several international business professionals while serving Bosch (Farmington Hills, Mich.), a global supplier of technology and services, as an administrative intern. “I served the needs of 200 engineers who came from India, Germany, France, Syria and other places,” said DePoy.

“All of the business professors are great examples of how to integrate faith into their careers,” said DePoy. “Because of the examples they have set, I am not concerned about dealing with ethical dilemmas. I know I might face hard decisions in my career, but I know the right ways to handle those situations.”

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CASE program

CASEbuilding a

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CASE

For families with autistic children, sometimes weeks can blend together as parents and children shuffle from school to one therapy session to the next, which doesn’t always allow the children to focus on the important stuff — like being kids. SAU’s Center for Autism Spectrum Enrichment (CASE) program is working with local schools and families to change that culture.

Most Wednesday afternoons, Karen Farr and her 9-year-old son, Tyler, spend an hour-and-a-half on the third floor of Spring Arbor University’s Poling Center where Tyler works one-on-one with a college student on a variety of skills. This time is no ordinary tutoring session. It’s part of a community outreach partnership Spring Arbor University has with the Jackson County Intermediate School District (JCISD) and the community to help youth impacted by autism.

The CASE program started about three years ago after Terri (Abbott ’86) Pardee, Ph.D., LPC, associate professor of psychology and program director, fielded call after call from local families looking for help. “The community had nothing,” says Pardee, who enlisted the help of Tony Starr from the JCISD, then SAU social work students Bri James ’12 and Madeline (Stout ’12) McDonald, and fellow Spring Arbor University faculty to develop a pilot program for local families who have children with autism.

The first year, the program was capped at 10 children and ran for six weeks. During the second year, it was expanded to allow for more students in grades K-8. Around 40 highly-functioning autistic youth participated in addition to 60 Spring Arbor University students from a wide variety of majors including social work, psychology, youth ministry, drama, art, education, special education, pre-physical therapy and more.

This year it expanded to include K-12. According to junior Lizzie Scherba (Flushing, Mich.), CASE student director, this program provides resources for parents, raises autism awareness, and helps maximize independence skills by providing children with opportunities for social, emotional and educational enrichment. The CASE program is also teaming with other colleges like University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University to help the research efforts of larger institutions.

Every Wednesday, families arrive and check in between 4 and 4:30 p.m. During this time, students participate in fun activities as they wait for the tutoring session. Some of the activities they do include watching experiments that science faculty members set up, while others participate in physical activities, create art, and perform or watch drama skits.

At 4:30 p.m., mentors pick up their students and escort them to the next activity. This walk includes a time for one-on-one interaction, which allows youth to work on their interaction and social skills, as well as gain confidence.

The actual lesson for program participants only lasts 10 minutes, which is the right amount of time for the short attention spans of youth. Following the lesson, all activities throughout the evening tie back to the social or emotional skill for which the lesson was designed.

From 4:30-5:30 p.m., CASE participants work with their individual mentors and in small group settings to learn different skills. Each session concludes with an optional Bible study.

Sibling Support is offered for brothers and sisters of CASE participants. Not only does this lift a burden on parents, but siblings learn conflict resolution and other skills that help to enhance relationships with their affected family member. They also get to play with the same group of children each week and have fun instead of passing time in a waiting room.

This marks the second year the Farrs have participated in the program, where Karen gathers with other parents. “Sharing with other families has been helpful for me. It’s comforting knowing there are others dealing with the same stuff,” says Farr.

“This is a great program for parents who just want to talk. It offers support and opportunities to meet other parents who share the same ideas and concerns. There isn’t any other programming like this in the area and the ones that do exist are expensive,” says Starr.

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“I love that each student in the CASE program is paired with a college student,” says Bill Hofer, teacher consultant for the JCISD. “They get to connect with a mentor and build an individual relationship.”

“I’m so impressed with students who volunteer their time,” says Farr. “They genuinely care about the kids. They are loving and build

relationships. They have been a blessing to us.”

Conversation games have helped Tyler Farr most, according to his mom. “After starting this program, at

baseball practice one day, Tyler turned around and initiated a conversation with some boys on his team. He did it twice that day,” says Farr. “His teacher also noticed a difference.”

“CASE helps educate communities on what kids can and can’t do and how to communicate with kids to expand on strengths, while not making a big deal about weaknesses,” says Farr.

“Socialization is an area where these children have a significant problem and it is nice to see them in a program where they had an opportunity to learn to deal with situations as opposed to being expected to function ‘normally’,” said parents of one participant.

Randee Cantrell’s son, Noah, participates in the CASE program. “Out of all the therapies we have tried, this program has been the

most impactful for Noah’s daily life. He works on social skills in a safe environment,” says Cantrell, who also notes that the parent support has helped her.

Some of the skills used during the program are also utilized at home and at school. “One idea we took from CASE was a volume chart that looked like a thermometer. It was helpful for the students to visually rate the volume of their voices,” says Cantrell.

The CASE program doesn’t just help families with autistic children. The college student volunteers benefit,

too. “SAU students are able to learn about the autistic population. Whether they are mentoring, helping with snack, or greeting, it is my hope that they are able to learn how to engage and relate to the students who attend the CASE program. Within our communities, people are often unaware and uneducated on how to help those with special needs. Too often, we outcast

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these vulnerable individuals and deem them as uncontrollable, dangerous or helpless. By being involved in CASE, SAU students are able to gain valuable real-world experience they will be able to take back to their communities, churches and professions. Given enough knowledge and experience, they can become ambassadors for individuals with autism spectrum disorder,” says Scherba.

Students do everything from write lesson plans to greet participants to mentor CASE participants and more. Planning the lessons in iteself requires the college students to conduct literature reviews to determine best practices for every lesson. “For our SAU students, this is hands-on experience that is invaluable. It takes lessons out of textbooks,” says Pardee.

“I have learned so much that I will be able to take with me to my future career,” says Scherba, who hopes to be a pediatric occupational therapist for children with special needs. “Although all of the CASE students have been diagnosed with high-functioning autism, they are all individuals with specific needs and abilities. I have learned to see what is unique

about each student and this will guide me as I work with children in the future.”

Spring Arbor University doesn’t stop at helping youth and their families. The university hosts summits and other events to help educate the public about autism facts and squelch myths.

Last spring more than 150 community members gathered including State Representative Earl Poleski, Jackson’s mayor Martin Griffin, and Julie Alexander with the Jackson County Board of Commissioners. The summit provided the needed opportunity for dialogue among police officers, firemen, educators, pastors, employment organizations, mental health professionals, community leaders, and about 50 family members. “The number of community members who showed an interest in this topic was amazing,” says Pardee.

Educating the community is important, as the number of youth diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder is on the rise. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that 1 in 88 children born will meet the diagnostic criteria for an autism spectrum

disorder. This new figure is up from the previous 1 in 110 statistic.

“CASE is an innovative program for other colleges and communities to emulate. It is exciting to be on the forefront of breaking through barriers that prevent children who are autistic from living life fully. Making a difference in their lives and the lives of their family members is something any community can be proud of,” says Scherba, who wanted to learn about the autistic population, gain real experience, and be a source of encouragement for the children.

For more information about the CASE program, contact Pardee at [email protected] or call 517.750.6319.

Dr. Brent D. Ellis unveiled his vision for the future of Spring Arbor University on Oct. 4, 2013, during his inauguration as the university’s 30th president. Spring Arbor University appointed Dr. Ellis as president in July following an international search.

More than 500 were in attendance including past Spring Arbor University presidents, Dr. Chuck H. Webb ’69, Dr. Gerald E. Bates JC ’53, Dr. Gayle D. Beebe, Dr. James Chapman HS ’51, JC ’53, Dr. Kenneth Coffman and Dr. David L. McKenna JC ’49 as well as delegates from several colleges, past colleagues of Ellis and a supportive community.

Dr. Alvin “Bud” Austin provided the inaugural address and charge followed by the formal

investiture led by James B. Woodcock ’91, board of trustees chairman, and Dr. Kimberly Rupert, provost and chief academic officer.

Ellis then took the podium where he spoke on the topic of his inaugural theme, “Pursuing wisdom through the liberal arts,” addressing the audience with his vision for how Spring Arbor University can continue the university’s founding commitment by pursuing wisdom and preparing students to serve as ambassadors for Christ.

Citing an article by Carnegie fellow William Sullivan, which claims that “vital and successful institutions stand out by their ability to maintain their direction and sense of meaning even amid significant shifts in the social landscape,”

President Ellis shares his vision for Spring Arbor University

by Sydney Williams

pursuing

Former SAU President Gayle Beebe, Provost Kimberly Rupert, former SAU President David McKenna, SAU President Brent Ellis

Audrejean Heydenburg, assistant professor of music, and other SAU faculty enter the sanctuary for the inauguration of Brent Ellis.

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Ellis shared how Spring Arbor University can meet challenges. “We can shift how we deliver education as long as we don’t shift and change the core of what we deliver,” said Ellis. Spring Arbor University still holds fast to the founding mission, known as the Spring Arbor University Concept, which states:

Spring Arbor University is a community of learners distinguished by our lifelong involvement in the study and application of the liberal arts, total commitment to Jesus Christ as the perspective for learning, and critical participation in the contemporary world.

To remain faithful to the Concept, Ellis recommended that the institution remembers the importance of pursuing wisdom, exploring

truth, developing knowledge and applying it all in an appropriate way that honors God and impacts the world. The university’s mission, he said, is to bring students closer to God, promote knowledge for the sake of wisdom, and apply learning appropriately inside and outside of the classroom. He charged students, staff and faculty to use their liberal arts education to address needs in our world, a calling that he said is both “temporal and eternal.”

“Faith is the fabric of who we are,” said Ellis. “It is incorporated into Spring Arbor University’s core, and not just ‘ending the class with a prayer.’”

“We pursue wisdom because it’s what our Concept articulates, it’s what our world needs, it’s what our creator provides, and it’s what we offer,” said Ellis, who began his term as president on August 16, 2013, after a unanimous selection by the Spring Arbor University Board of Trustees.

The inauguration celebration coincided with Homecoming and Family weekend. The full transcript and recording of Ellis’ inaugural address is available at arbor.edu/inauguration.

The Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church sanctuary was full for the 30th inauguration ceremony.

Brian Ellis, Brent’s twin brother, gave the inaugural benediction.

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New Master of Social Work slated for Fall 2014Spring Arbor University plans to offer a Master of Social Work in four locations — Battle Creek, Grand Rapids, Petoskey and Toledo — beginning in Fall 2014. The program will feature two concentrations so students can tailor their education to match their careers. Students who enroll in Fall 2014 will receive a $2,000 grant.

“An MSW degree is invaluable to those in the helping profession. Completion of an MSW can open doors for students in areas of counseling, program development, management and beyond,” says Emily Dixon, director of field instruction at SAU.

The 60-credit hour degree takes about two years to complete. The first year (same for all students), consists of foundational courses, while the second-year curriculum is concentration-tailored.

With a focus on clinical orientation, the micro concentration prepares graduates for advanced social work practice with individuals, families and small groups. The macro concentration prepares graduates for work in international social work, global humanitarian aid and advocacy.

“We are excited about the opportunities an MSW degree will provide for our graduates and look forward to seeing God use these students to help those in need to better the world,” says Dixon.

For select students, SAU offers a one-year (30 credit) Advanced Standing Program (micro or macro). In order to be considered for this program, students must have received a baccalaureate degree in social work from an undergraduate social work program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education.

For more information about the Master of Social Work, visit arbor.edu/msw.

Communication professor, alumna honoredThe Religious Communication Association honored Spring Arbor University’s Robert Woods and Christy Mesaros-Winckles ’06, ’08 with distinctive honors this year when it awarded Woods as Scholar of Year and Mesaros-Winckles with the Dissertation of the Year honor.

Woods, professor of communication, was among several names considered for Scholar of the Year. “The sentiment was unanimous that Dr. Woods’ scholarly work merited this level of recognition from the RCA,” says Matthew Melton, who was president of the Religious Communication Association at the time of Woods’ honor.

“Dr. Woods has been one of the most prolific and consistent scholars in the field of religious communication. Last year’s

three-volume edited work, Evangelical Christians and Popular Culture, represents an unprecedented cross-section of religious communication scholars. Fifty-seven authors across 54 chapters represent nearly 50 institutions of higher learning both public and private. The text is bound to serve as a valuable resource for communication scholars, students and professors for many years,” says Melton.

“I was honored and humbled that RCA suggested that there might be some value in the scholarship I’ve been blessed to be part of over the years,” says Woods. “I’ve tried to look at my scholarly opportunities as a way to experience redemptive community; to be mentored by others; to serve others rather than promote myself; to practice responsive listening; to encourage others in their gifts and talents; and to be obedient to the calling God has placed on my life.”

Mesaros-Winckles, who completed a bachelor’s in communication as well as a Master of Arts in Communication from SAU, was honored for her doctoral dissertation titled, “Only God Knows the Opposition we Face: The Rhetoric of Nineteenth Century Free Methodist Women’s Quest for Ordination.” Her dissertation examined the roles evangelists Clara Wetherald and Ida Gage played within the Free Methodist Church during the late 1800s and the adversity they faced as women within the church.

Mesaros-Winckles completed a doctoral degree in communication studies from Bowling Green University in 2012. She serves as an assistant professor of English at Siena Heights University.

Woods is currently developing an interactive online community called the CCSN, or the Christianity and Communication Studies Network, for teachers, researchers and students interested in questions at the intersection between Christianity and communication. To learn more, visit theccsn.com.

SAU forms new School of Human Services and SAU GlobalKimberly Rupert, provost and chief academic officer, announced the formation of the School of Human Services and of SAU Global. Tamara Dindoffer, Ph.D., will serve as School of Human Services dean, and Linda Sherrill, Ed.D., as SAU Global dean.

The School of Human Services includes graduate and professional programs in counseling, family studies, Christian ministry leadership, nursing and social work.

Under the tutelage of Dindoffer, the School of Human Services seeks to further its excellent reputation to meet the educational needs of those working in the diverse sector of human services. “We intertwine faith, social justice and ethical reasoning throughout our subject matter while drawing upon the strengths of each of our cognate disciplines. We are excited about a productive future for our students and community,” says Dindoffer.

Spring Arbor University Global continues and builds upon a legacy to reach out in every community in which SAU offers educational services to meet their needs. In addition SAU Global incorporates 10-plus years of Spring Arbor University Online offerings including bachelor’s degree completion programs in business, organizational management and communication leadership, as well as an MBA and other master’s degrees in communication, education, reading, Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), special education, nursing, and spiritual formation and leadership.

“Consistent with the Concept, Spring Arbor University Global will play a significant role in our service to traditional and nontraditional students seeking face-to-face, online and hybrid educational pathways to their personal and career goals,” says Sherrill.

ROBERT WOODS

CHRISTY MESAROS-WINCKLES

community of learners


As a trained developmental biologist, Michael Buratovich has held an interest in stem cell research since before it began making headlines in the late 1990s when an embryo was first isolated. As a biochemistry professor and subject matter expert on campus, Buratovich often fielded questions regarding this issue. He accumulated so many questions, in fact, that he decided to write a book highlighting some of them. The Stem Cell Epistles: Letters to My Students about Bioethics, Embryos, Stem Cells, and Fertility Treatments is a 274-page paperback that was published with Wipf & Stock Publishers in October 2013.

With a foreword written by Timothy Lee Walberg, U.S. Representative for Michigan’s seventh congressional district, the book features 30 chapters of Buratovich’s measured answers to questions his students and others have asked regarding whether Christians should support or vigorously oppose stem cell research.

“Embryonic stem cells are unnecessary in research,” said Buratovich. “In my book, I provide scientific and historic

cases that suggest that the embryo is the youngest and most vulnerable member of humanity and that they should continue to be protected by the Christian church.”

Buratovich has taught biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, genes and speciation, human physiology, senior seminar and pharmacology at SAU since 1999. His research interests have included stem cells and antimicrobial agents. He has also published articles in numerous encyclopedias, Developmental Biology, Drosophila Information Service, Reports of the National Center for Science Education, Genetics, Stem Cells and Development, Recent Patents on Anti-Cancer Discovery, and Perspectives on Science and the Christian Faith.

Buratovich runs the blog Beyond the Dish, and is a licensed lay preacher with the Baptist Union of Great Britain.

The book is available for purchase on Wipf & Stock’s website and on amazon.com.

For a full list of faculty accomplishments, visit arbor.edu/journal.

Chan, who served as interim dean for Gainey School of Business prior to this appointment, will oversee convergence of campus and external business programs and outreach to major employers in each instructional market.

Drawing from more than 20 years of experience in adult and professional programs, Dindoffer will oversee the new School of Human Services, which includes social work, counseling, family studies, Christian ministry leadership and nursing.

Rubio, who formerly served as director of assessment in addition to his role as assistant professor of education, will continue to lead the School of Education in its rich tradition of excellence including receiving “Exemplary” ratings by the Michigan Department of Education.

Sherrill, former School of Education dean, is an experienced educational administrator and professor. In her new role, Sherrill will focus on building new programs and relationships in each of the 18 locations around Michigan and Ohio where SAU offers associate, degree completion and graduate degrees, while continuing to build SAU’s online degree offerings.

Spring Arbor University appoints four new deansSAU recently announced several dean placements, which included longtime SAU faculty and administrators Caleb Chan, Gainey School of Business, Tammy Dindoffer, School of Human Services, Reuben Rubio, interim dean of the School of Education, and Linda Sherrill, SAU Global.

“It is a great pleasure to draw upon exceptional persons with extensive experience as faculty and administrators within the university to assume these important responsibilities, which are central to our mission to provide first-rate Christian higher education to current and future students,” says Kimberly Rupert, provost and chief academic officer.

Buratovich pens stem cell book

SAU welcomes Wilcoxson as executive vice presidentSAU welcomes experienced Christian higher education leader Doug Wilcoxson as executive vice president on April 14. He will oversee the advancement office at SAU.

Most recently, Wilcoxson served as vice president for student development at Asbury University (Kentucky), where he provided executive vision and leadership for a staff of more than 50. In that role, he collaborated with academic affairs to provide a holistic teaching and learning environment, developed strategic relationships with the president to help fundraising efforts, and partnered with several departments on campus to develop effective discipleship.

“It is an honor to welcome Doug Wilcoxson to Spring Arbor University. To say he is well rounded is an understatement. Doug is an experienced leader within so many key areas of Christian higher education, but he is a Christian first and foremost and that shines through in every relationship he encounters. Doug should make an immediate and positive impact here at Spring Arbor,” says Brent Ellis, SAU president.

His past work experience also includes serving as associate vice president and director of community relations at Union University (Tennessee), vice president for

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yarborstudent affairs at LeTourneau University (Texas), and dean of student development at Greenville College (Illinois). During his longstanding career within advancement and student development offices, Wilcoxson has collaborated with faculty to develop curriculum, taught courses, coordinated cross cultural travel opportunities for students, provided vision for collegiate athletics and coached several sports.

Wilcoxson holds a doctorate in higher education from the University of North Texas, a master’s degree in student personnel administration from Ball State University, and a bachelor’s degree in communication education from Grace College (Indiana).

With special emphasis in Christian higher education, Wilcoxson has made several presentations at national conferences. Due to his vast knowledge and expertise, Wilcoxson has also served as a consultant for student affairs to other universities.

He has a strong history of organizing community outreach efforts in the communities where he works and lives. Some of the organizations where he has volunteered include Boys and Girls Club, Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, prison ministries and homeless shelters. Wilcoxson is married to Lisa and they have two children, Isaac and Abigail.

Spring Arbor University hosts Woodrow Wilson Visiting FellowSAU’s Hosmer Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation welcomed Woodrow Wilson Visiting Fellow and global entrepreneur Anil Singh-Molares for a weeklong visit in October 2013. Singh-Molares spoke in several business classes, seminars, workshops and lectures and met with students and faculty members informally throughout the week to share his practical knowledge in entrepreneurship and business.

Computer science students take top honors at Midwest competitionTwo SAU computer programming teams placed first and second in the Midwest Consortium of Computing Sciences Colleges Programming Competition in September 2013. The competition was held at the University of Findlay in Findlay, Ohio. Twenty-four teams represented 16 college and universities at the competition.

SAU’s first place team consisted of seniors Jaryl Chong (Selangor, Malaysia), Stephen Dickinson (Hastings, Mich.) and Stephen White (Spring Arbor). Juniors Ryan Kilgore (Jonesville, Mich.), Luke Lauterbach (Mason, Mich.) and Greg Nagy (Springport, Mich.) placed second at the competition. Both teams were coached by Shasha Wu, assistant professor of computer science.

The teams met weekly with Wu, who gave the teams examples of competition problems, and taught basic strategies to use. “Most of my team preparation focused on finding out how the three of us function while working on these puzzles,” said Kilgore. “We found that having all three of us work on one problem didn’t help much. Instead, two of us would work on the current problem and the third would start on the next.”

Dickinson appreciated the opportunity to work with his classmates and coach. “At the competition, I was able to see them less in an academic setting and I was able to get to know their personal sides,” Dickinson said. “Working with them to achieve the two highest positions was very gratifying.”

DOUG WILCOXSON

SAU SCIENCE STUDENTS

Fluent in Spanish, French and English, Singh-Molares worked for Microsoft for several years, and founded EchoMundi LLC, an international services firm, Compassionate Action Network, an organization dedicated to fostering international compassion, and Phoenix Global Partners, a contract manufacturing firm. He is also cofounder of the Preeclampsia Foundation, the only foundation dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for preeclampsia.

With no formal academic training in business, Singh-Molares affirmed that his liberal arts education shaped the way he does business. “I don’t consider liberal arts a sterile, academic pursuit,” said Singh-Molares, who studied philosophy, English literature and political science at the University of Rochester. “These are courses and degrees you use to figure out what values you want to include in your life. The liberal arts are alive, vibrant, relevant and practical.”

During his visit, Singh-Molares encouraged students to pair unusual disciplines together in order to find new value in their programs. “Find the connection points between them to foster creativity, an appreciation of different perspectives, and new abilities,” said Singh-Molares.

The Woodrow Wilson Visiting Fellows program, which is administered by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) in Washington, DC, brings prominent professionals to campuses across the United States. The Hosmer Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation exists to provide learners with the training, mentoring and education for their preparation as entrepreneurs.

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A look BACK

140 YEARS OF MEMORIES

Commemorative quilt honors Spring Arbor historyWhen the ’50s,’60s ’70s Reunion Committee opted to host an auction to benefit Michindoh’s camp scholarship program at their recent reunion, alums Bill HS ’51, JC ’53 and Shirley ’84 Zeller volunteered to design and create a quilt to honor Spring Arbor’s history.

The Concept sculpture catches the observer’s eye, but getting it on the quilt was no easy feat. The sculpture was embroidered by a local specialist.

“The sculpture was too large for me to embroider,” says Shirley Zeller, who notes that including it was worth the extra work. “It was important to Bill and me to include this feature. Our good friend, James J. Snyder Sr. HS ’48, JC ’58 sculpted the aluminum fountain on campus.”

The Junior College Class of 1959 purchased the commemorative quilt at auction for $2,600. “From the first sketch, I knew this quilt needed to be displayed at the school because that was where it belonged,” says Chuck Conrad JC ’59, class representative. The newly-acquired artifact was presented to SAU President Brent Ellis, transferred to the University Archives and is on permanent display on the south wall of the main level of White Library.

Additional funding was provided for displaying the quilt in conformity with both institution and

preservation standards determined by Susan Panak ’12, university archivist. An enclosed quilt frame was handmade by Bill Zeller assisted by Harold Dunckel (1961-63).

Sticking with the quilt theme, Zeller made a wooden quilt hanger with the theme, “Quilts connect the past with the present and the future.”

Archival assistant, junior Hannah Dennings (Montrose, Mich.), edited photographs of the junior college sign and the university brick wall for use in the quilt. Seniors Emily Thompson (Lake Odessa, Mich.), Kim Binnendyk (Muskegon, Mich.), and Dennings also developed a brochure dating the historical icons.

There is no doubt that this commemorative quilt will be enjoyed by many future faculty, staff and students visiting the Hugh A. and Edna C. White Library.


Arts) Conference in October 2013. The event featured plenary sessions, performances and workshops.

One plenary session featured a performance of “The Great Play,” by SAU senior Joshua Cloyd (Kingston, Mich.) and Paul McKinley ’13. Featured performances included SAU Professor of Communication Paul Patton’s “Meeting in Kansas,” performed by SAU Drama, “Footprints of A Pilgrim,” performed by Bethel College Genesians, “Though The Earth Give Way,” performed by Taylor University Drama, and “I Write To Discover What I Know,” a one-woman show about the life of Flannery O’Connor performed by Jen Letherer, assistant professor of communication.

Conference attendees had the opportunity to participate in workshops that addressed topics including directing, stage combat, lighting, play writing, auditioning, scripture performance and more.

Spring Arbor University fights human traffickingSpring Arbor University welcomed activists, abolitionists and professionals to campus for the Human Trafficking Conference in October 2013. Titled “Understanding Realities and Formulating Solutions,” the conference featured keynotes and workshops aimed at formulating solutions to human trafficking both locally and globally.

The conference was the result of a growing interest the SAU student body has had within fighting social justice issues over the past several years. Following a cross cultural experience to Cambodia, students saw firsthand the devastating impact of human trafficking. After returning to campus, students took the initiative to research the possibility of human trafficking in Jackson County and elsewhere in Michigan. The movement grew with the involvement of Free Methodist Church Pastor Kevin Austin, the organization of a

FOCUS Series by Mary Albert Darling ’78, associate professor of communication, and others on human trafficking, and subsequent public speaking engagements, task force participation, and strategic partnerships locally and within the state of Michigan.

The conference proved to be another way to keep the conversation going. “We want to keep the momentum going and continue to dialogue with other partners regarding how to formulate sustainable solutions to human trafficking in our communities and throughout the state of Michigan,” says Jeremy

Norwood, associate professor of sociology, global studies and criminal justice.

Keynote speakers included Leslie King, founder and chief executive officer of Sacred Beginnings (Grand Rapids, Mich.), a home for women who have been sexually exploited, Celia Williamson, professor of social work at the University of Toledo and founder of Second Chance, a comprehensive program that partners with former victims of human trafficking and prostitution, and Jane White, director and founder the Michigan Human Trafficking Task Force. Workshops by professors, social activists, artists and others were geared toward seeking justice for the trafficked and exploring ways to end human trafficking.

Spring Arbor University hosts Midwest theatre conference

SAU welcomed actors to the Midwest Regional CITA (Christians in Theatre

Anderson runs away with conference titleSenior Kyle Anderson (Milan, Mich.) took top honors at the 2013 men’s cross country Crossroads League Conference meet to lead SAU to a fourth place finish.

Junior Noah Haverdink (Hudsonville, Mich.) placed 10th in a breakout race after missing much of the season due to injury. Sophomore Nathan Anderson (Milan, Mich.) finished 11th to round out the top finishes for SAU.

Following the conference meet, Kyle Anderson competed in his fourth National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national meet in Rim Rock, Kan., where he took 10th place. He was leading after the 4K-mark, but he was not able to keep the pace.

“His finish is a big accomplishment on the national level,” says Head Coach Dante Ottolini. “It was a gift from God to have the privilege to coach Kyle. His accomplishments as an athlete and scholar were impressive, but what is most impressive about Kyle is how he does it. He will leave behind him a legacy and a stronger program, team and coach.”

Representing the women’s team, senior Danae Dracht (Hudsonville, Mich.) finished 33rd out of 319

runners. Dracht’s time of 18:35 was stronger toward the finish as she passed 20-25 runners in the second half of the race.

Cottingham surpasses men’s basketball all-time win recordThe men’s basketball team kicked off the 2013-14 season by winning the Trent Allen Memorial Tip-off Classic. The win over Rochester College was memorable for Head Coach Ryan Cottingham ’94 as it solidified his place atop all-time wins for men’s basketball. The 263 wins under Cottingham’s leadership broke Bill Bockwitz’s mark of 262.

“This record is only special because of how much I admire Coach (Bill Bockwitz),” says Cottingham. “That the win happened in this tournament where we honor another great person in alum Trent Allen, with his family present, makes it special.”

The close game fittingly featured a defensive battle that came down to an element coaches love to emphasize — rebounds, none bigger than sophomore Greg Hamilton’s (Middleville, Mich.) offensive rebound with 17 seconds left allowing the Cougars to keep the ball. Rochester missed a shot at the buzzer as SAU won 48-47.

Senior Rob Hogans (Farmington, Mich.) was the tournament MVP scoring 34 points in the opening game and 24 against Rochester.

Cottingham, who also serves as athletic director at SAU, has been the head coach since 1999. He played guard for SAU from 1992-94.

Men’s soccer reaches NCCAA Final FourThe men’s soccer team finished another successful season in 2013 that ended at the National Christian College Athletic

Association Final Four. The Cougars vied for a piece of the Crossroads League title, but came up short against Indiana Wesleyan in the regular season finale.

Despite the loss, SAU plunged through the conference tournament defeating Grace College and University of St. Francis to compete for the tournament title again with Indiana Wesleyan. The Cougars’ bid came up short, but their season continued at the NCCAA tourney.

SAU tied Mississippi College 2-2, before defeating Judson University, 1-0, to advance to the semi-finals where they faced Southern Wesleyan University. It took 62 minutes before either team scored. SWU then scored twice just four minutes apart to take a 2-0 lead. The Cougars cut the lead in half with four minutes remaining, as freshman Michael Caccavo (Mississauga, Ontario) tapped in a pass from senior Giovanni Sturla (Novi, Mich.). But SAU couldn’t produce another goal.

“We fought until the end. This team accomplished things no one outside the locker room thought were possible, and we stuck together. I am proud of them and humbled by their commitment,” says Nate Miller, head coach.

The Cougars’ season ended with a 14-9-2 record. Four Cougars, Caccavo, senior Joel Musambi (Ottawa, Ontario), senior Milles Keller (Port Huron, Mich.), and junior Christian Strangis (Bolton, Ontario), received All-Crossroads League honors. Caccavo, Musambi and Keller all received first-team honors, whichle Strangis was named to the second team.

Women’s soccer makes history, againAfter achieving the best year in program history (20-3-2 overall) in 2012, the 2013 women’s soccer team knew they had to push themselves to match that success.

Taking it one opponent at a time, this next generation of soccer players proved their prowess, steamrolling their way to the top of the Crossroads League.

They clinched the regular season crown with a perfect 9-0 record — a first for women’s soccer — and secured their fourth straight Crossroads League Tournament Title, which guaranteed their fourth consecutive berth in the NAIA National Championships. However, a rash of ill-timed injuries and illnesses handicapped the team, and they fell to Robert Morris (1-3) in the opening match.

For the 2013 senior class, this might read as tragedy. But, that’s not the end of their story. The Cougar seniors are recognized as the winningest class to date in SAU women’s soccer history. They amassed an astounding 75-14-6 record (.821 win percentage) with 16 of those wins coming consecutively in their final season.

Head coach Jason Crist says the team’s success comes as no surprise. “Anytime a class can win over 80 percent of their contests even in one season, it’s special. For our senior class this year to sustain that kind of tradition over the course of their four year careers is pretty amazing,” says Crist, naming in particular seniors Ashley DeNio

cougar zone

KYLE ANDERSON BROOKLYN MORGAN

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FOR THE LATEST NEWS AND SCORES FOR SAU ATHLETICS, VISIT THE COUGAR WEBSITE AT SAUCOUGARS.COM.+

(Woodland Park, Colo.), Brooklyn Morgan (Spring Arbor) and Karly Linton (Midland, Mich.).

“Our three losses this season all came to teams that finished in the NAIA National Tournament Elite Eight this year. Our seniors are each unique and have played a large part in driving our team to the next level on the field. They will be missed,” says Crist.

SAU runners lead NAIA in number of scholar athletesSAU’s cross country teams excel on the course and in the classroom where they model the true meaning of student-athlete. According to the 2013 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Cross Country Scholar list, the men’s and women’s teams combined total tied for the highest number of Scholar Athletes in the Nation with 16.

Making the list for the women’s team were seniors Katrina Bean (Swartz Creek, Mich.), Elizabeth Bradt (Hudsonville, Mich.), Danae Dracht (Hudsonvolle, Mich.), Rebecca Donker (Holland, Mich.), Faith Gunderson (Menominee, Mich.), Kathryn Jones (Kalamazoo, Mich.) and Alison Kiekover

(Zeeland, Mich.); and juniors Christina Anderson (Lake Orion, Mich.), Amanda Curtis (Milford, Mich.) and Leah DeVoe (Schoolcraft, Mich.).

The men’s list includes seniors Kyle Anderson (Milan, Mich.), Chris Conrad (Ludington, Mich.), Livingston Garland (Lansing, Mich.) and Peter Ramundo (Manhattan, Kan.); and juniors Nick Haskamp (Hastings, Mich.) and Noah Haverdink (Hudsonville, Mich.).

Cougar runners take eighth at NCCAA meetSenior Chris Conrad (Ludington, Mich.) took second place in the 800-meter run to lead the Cougars to an eighth-place finish at the National Christian College Athletic Association indoor track and field national meet.

Other SAU top performers included junior Kelly Maxwell (Inkster, Mich.), who finished fourth in the 60-meter hurdles, and senior Dewayne Gray (Jackson, Mich.), who took fifth in the 200-meter dash.

Gray will represent SAU at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national meet. Check saucougars.com for results.

Association’s nationals in Panama City Beach, Fla.

BROOKLYN MORGANCODY LYSHER

ELLIE REYNOLDS DOMINATES A 60M HURDLE RACE.

Women’s indoor track and field breaks four recordsSpring Arbor University women’s indoor track team had a record-breaking season — literally. The athletes combined to break four records.

60m (8.08 seconds) Amanda Luurtsema Freshman Saline, Mich.

60m Hurdles (9.59 seconds) Ellie Reynolds Freshman Woodland, Mich.

At the National Christian College Athletic Association national meet, Rogers took third place in the pole vault and received All-American honors. Several athletes also qualified for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics including: Rogers in pole vault, senior Danae Dracht (Hudsonville, Mich.) in the 5K, and the 4x800-meter relay team of seniors Rebecca Donker (Holland, Mich.) and Sarah Frederick (Breckenridge, Mich.), and juniors Amanda Curtis (Milford, Mich.) and Mary Lehman (Jackson, Mich.). Check saucougars.com for results.

Pole vault (12’ 1/4”) Vanessa Rogers Senior Adrian, Mich.

Triple Jump (35’ 7 3/4”) Kelly Tripp Sophomore Bourbonnais, Ill.

Freshman leads men’s golfFreshman Cody Lysher (Jackson, Mich.) medaled to lead SAU’s men’s golf to a second win at the Jackson College invitational during the Fall 2013 season. Lysher fired a one over par 73 to pace the Cougars to a team score of 311. Grand Rapids College tied SAU, but the championship went to SAU based on fifth man scores.

Freshman Sean Sommerville (Alma, Mich.) carded a 78 to bolster the score for SAU, followed by junior Chris Chaney (Jackson, Mich.) and senior Matt Howe (Richland, Mich.), who added 80s for SAU. Junior Nick Ward (South Lyon, Mich.) rounded out the Cougars’ top five with an 82.

Lysher later represented SAU at the National Christian College Athletic

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@SpringArborUMichelle Albert ’15 Brandon McCarrell ’12

Photography

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19[ 1 ] President Brent Ellis welcomes new freshmen and their families on move-in day. [ 2 ] A trio of ballerinas perform on stage as a part of the Hanging of the Greens festivities. [ 3 ] The annual Slip’n Slide tradition on Mt. Beebe has become one of the most anticipated events on campus. [ 4 ] Local vendors offered samples of cultural cuisine and traditions during the Taste of the Arbor Feastival in September. [ 5 ] The SAU baseball team plays in its annual Homecoming game. [ 6 ] Students and community members, alike, browse the student art show in the Ganton Art Gallery. [ 7 ] Students dressed up to emulate their favorite superheroes for Arbor Games 2013. [ 8 ] SAU welcomed the Rhett Walker Band for its fall concert. [ 9 ] A proud graduate walks up to receive his diploma during the Fall 2013 commencement. [ 10 ] The Chapel band leads the Spring Arbor University community in worship. [ 11 ] Quentin Schultze speaks to communication students and professionals who gathered for Forum 4:15, which was hosted by the Department of Communication & Media. [ 12 ] Jane White speaks on human trafficking at the inaugural conference held at SAU. [ 13 ] Joggers complete the annual Homecoming Weekend 5K Run through campus. [ 14 ] Community members gather on the plaza to light candles and watch fireworks for the Hanging of the Greens. [ 15 ] New students partake in the traditional ribbon-cutting during Parting at the Plaza. [ 16 ] Students perform skits based on chosen superheroes as a part of Arbor Games. [ 17 ] SAU employees install a sculpture that honors Chuck and Philippa Webb. It sits near the famed oak tree between the Student Life Center and Lowell Hall, and was made possible thanks to alums Lloyd and Judi Ganton. [ 18 ] Children enjoy the inflatable slide at the Homecoming Weekend Kids’ Carnival. [ 19 ] Dr. Brent Ellis, joined by wife Christy, receives a plaque to commemorate the SAU Concept by Steven Hlatky, student body president, during the inaugural celebration.

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AND DO IT ALL WITH PURPOSE. Because a title may define your job, but a purpose gives it meaning. Whether you’re declaring a major, or embarking on a new career path, Spring Arbor University offers 120 undergraduate and graduate degrees that form teachers, nurses, CEOs, counselors, creative directors, accountants and writers who want to make more than just a profit. They want to make a difference.

BECOME SOMEONE YOU NEVER KNEW YOU COULD BE.

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Cam DavisClass of 2014Broadcasting majorGrandville, MI

alumni news + information

1975

Frank Passic ’75 [ 1 ] has written his ninth book, Albion, published by Arcadia Publishing as part of their Postcard History series. He resides in Albion, Mich., and works as a field representative for the U.S. Census Bureau. Frank also plays the keyboard for New Hope Worship Center in Albion. [email protected]

1985

Nancy (Nowak ’85) McKeague [ 2 ] was named the 2013 Human Resources Professional of the Year by the American Society of Employers. She is the senior vice president and chief human resources officer at Michigan Health and Hospital Association. Nancy is also a member of the board of directors of Accident Fund Holdings Inc. and of Sparrow Health System and serves as a member of the Society for Human Resources Management Committee on Labor Relations. She resides in East Lansing, Mich.

1991

Inge Kyler ’91 [ 3 ] was commissioned by Arcadia Publishing to write the book Holt and Delhi Township as part of their Images of America Pictorial History series. She has previously written over 20 books which include poetry, non-fiction and children’s stories. Inge resides in Eaton Rapids, Mich., with Arthur, her husband of 59 years. [email protected]

1999

Dave Page ’99 was named principal of the Rehmann, a financial services firm in Jackson, Mich. In his new position, Dave oversees the completion of compilations, reviews and audits for employee benefit plans, manufacturing and other commercial engagements. Dave and his wife, Wendy, live in Jackson, Mich., with their twin boys, Jacob and Luke, 3.

2002

Aaron ’02 and Sarah (Hopper ‘09) Cole [ 4 ] welcomed a son, Tyler James, on May 9, 2013. Sarah is the secretary for academic affairs at SAU and Aaron is a supervisor in the SAU Dining Commons, as well as the audio and lighting director at Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church. Tyler joins big sister Lillian, 2. They reside in Spring Arbor.

2003

David ’03 and Rachel (Ryder ’03) Buchanan [ 5 ] welcomed their first child, David James (little DJ), on Jan. 29. Rachel is promotions coordinator and on-air host for SAU Radio and David is the video and social media specialist at Allegiance Health System. They reside in Jackson, Mich.

Lance ’03 and Dawn (Anderson ’04, ’06) Schnitkey [ 6 ] welcomed a daughter, Katelyn Irene, on Nov. 7, 2013. She joins big brother, Jayden, 4. Lance is the controller at CP Federal Credit Union, and Dawn is assistant vice president of financial services and controller at Spring

Arbor University. They reside in Jackson, Mich.

2004

Lindsey (Whitaker ’04) and Matthew Hazzard ’04 welcomed a daughter, Juliana Mae, on Jan. 2. Lindsey is a licensed clincical social worker on faculty at University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill) who does clinical research in child and adolescent psyciatry and focuses on autism. She serves on the board of the Autism Society of North Carolina and writes test questions for the Association of Social Work Boards. Matthew is a fifth-year neurosurgery resident at Duke University Medical Center (Durham, N.C.).

2005

Tim and Tonya (Lightner ’05) Hernandez [ 7 ] welcomed a son, Fabian James (Ian), on Oct. 12, 2013. Tonya is the program

director for SAU Radio, and Tim is a communications specialist at American 1 Credit Union. They reside in Jackson, Mich.

Adam and Kayla (Stevens ’05) Mickler [ 8 ], of Midland, Mich., welcomed a son, Reid Timothy, on Aug. 26, 2013. He joins big brothers, Parker, 6, and Brentley, 2.

In September 2013, Horia Neagos ’05 joined the law firm of McKeen & Associates in Detroit. He will focus on medical malpractice, wrongful death, general negligence and birth trauma. 2006 Jermale Eddie ’06 and his wife, Anissa, recently opened the Malamiah Juice Bar in Market Hall located in downtown Grand Rapids, Mich. Along with providing fresh juice and smoothie products, they hope to promote health education, community

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wellness and youth employment opportunities. They reside in Grand Rapids, with their sons, Malachi, 4, and Nehemiah, 1. [email protected]

2007Cameron ’07 and Wendy (Hirdes ’07) Moore [ 9 ], of Waco, Texas, welcomed a son, Isaac Cameron, on Jan. 2, 2013. He joins big sister, Evelyn, 2. Cameron is attending Baylor University studying for his doctorate in English and is also teaching composition and literature. Cameron has accepted the position for assistant professor of English at SAU. Wendy is a stay-at-home [email protected]@gmail.com

2008

Sarah Lane ’08 received her master’s in divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and then worked at Union Church in Hong Kong from 2012-13. She is currently studying science and religion at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. [email protected]

2009

Sarah Hazlett ’09 [ 10 ] married Bradley Walkowicz on the edge of Lake Michigan on Oct. 13, 2013. Sarah is employed with Catholic Charities and Bradley is a department head at Kroger.

Rebecca Laske ’09, ’13 [ 11 ]married Chad Robertson on Oct. 11, 2013. Rebecca teaches third grade at Minglewood Elementary in Clarksville, Tenn., and Chad is employed at C&J Marble in Indian Mound, Tenn. They reside in Clarksville, Mich.

Jon ’09 and Jennifer (Coston ’09) Schaible [ 12 ], of Jackson, Mich., welcomed a son, Henry Edward, on Sept. 9, 2013. Jon is a business analyst at Consumers Energy and recently received his MBA from Spring Arbor University. Jennifer is a kindergarten literacy coach at Warner Elementary in Spring Arbor.

2010

Bruce Kirk ’10 was promoted to department chairman of the digital media and communication arts department (DCMA) at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va. He leads four concentrations under DCMA and oversees several live weekly digital media television programs, the student radio station and the internship programs. Bruce is also finishing his doctorate in educational leadership. He resides in Lynchburg with his wife, June, who works in executive sales for WSET-TV. They have two children, Jourdann, 17, and Kianna, 14. [email protected] 2011

Kurt Classen ’11 and his two co-workers on the enrollment team at Grace Bible College were honored by the North American Coalition

for Christian Higher Education (NACCAP) as the Rookies of the Year. The national award is given by NACCAP to recognize those who have less than two years of experience who have made outstanding efforts to serve the needs of their institution, contributing not only to immediate goals, but to the betterment of the whole. Kurt and his wife, Sarah (Alumbaugh ’12), a special education teacher, reside in Rockford, Mich. [email protected]

2012

Shawn ’12 and Chelsea (Mero ’12) Kiley [ 13 ] moved to Uganda in December 2013 to teach for

at an international school in Kampala. During their two-year assignment, Chelsea will teach preschool and Shawn will teach third and fourth grades. kileyuganda.blogspot.com

2013

Shane Street ’13, who served as catcher for the Cougars baseball team during his four years at SAU, signed his first professional baseball contract with The Southern Illinois Miners. The minor league team is part of the Frontier League and includes teams from Michigan, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. Shane resides in Rockford, Mich.

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Contact Danny Lacy at [email protected] or 877.SAU.Legacy to learn more about supporting SAU student scholarship initiatives.

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’71; children, Emily Owen 1996-99 and Michael; brother, Karl ’71; and seven grandchildren.

Doris (Altopp JC ’52) Buckta, of McCordsville, Ind., passed away on Sept. 13, 2013. She was 83. Doris taught in both public and Christian school systems serving in Michigan, Kentucky, Taiwan and the Dominican Republic. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Richard HS ’48, JC ’55, ’67. She is survived by brothers, Richard HS ’55 and David; two children; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Mary Jo (Henderson HS ’54, JC ’56) Chilcote, of Spring Arbor, passed away on Nov. 21, 2013. She was 77. Mary Jo taught fifth grade in the Leslie School District and after retirement spent time as

IN MEMORIAM

Sheila (Fletcher HS ’49, JC ’51) Avis, of Kennewick, Wash., passed away on July 30, 2013. She was 81. Sheila worked for many years as a secretary before retiring from civil service in 1993 and beginning her own secretarial service. She also assisted George HS ’48, JC 1949-51, her husband of 62 years, minister in a number of Free Methodist churches. Sheila is survived by George; one son; two daughters; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Ann (Somerville ’72) Baker, of Clio, Mich., passed away on May 9, 2013. She was 63. Ann was a teacher at Mt. Morris Schools for seven years, and an active member of the New Covenant Free Methodist Church. She is survived by her husband of 40 years, David

In 2010 SAU initiated a scholarship campaign called 50 by ’15. In each Journal since then you have seen updates. We are well on our way of reaching the goal, but we need your help. Please take time to rejoice with SAU for God’s provision.

SAU believes strongly in endowed scholarships. Students benefit through financial assistance in recognition of academic ability, extracurricular activities and/or financial need. Endowed scholarships are an impacting way to honor or memorialize family members, friends, or mentors by naming the scholarship for them. Dr. Joyce E. Ballard JC ’59 recently shared her thoughts on establishing an SAU endowed scholarship.

“My consideration for attempting to endow a scholarship probably involves two aspects: My experiences as a student-athlete and the educational experiences of my entire family (sister, two nieces and one nephew) who also were student-athletes, and as a professional educator, the joy of seeing Spring Arbor grow as an educational institution.

I had a great educational experience (math major) at Spring Arbor Junior College with Dean David McKenna JC ’49 as my advisor, and I am indebted to him for getting me off on the right academic pathway as a new college student. As a student-athlete, I enjoyed intramural sports and being on the women’s’ basketball team. Through the years, I had opportunities to serve on the board of trustees in the mid-1990s and participate on various committees (2005-13) involved with alumni reunions. I have been proud to see Spring Arbor go from a junior college to a four-year college and now to Spring Arbor University.

I come from a “sports-loving family” with my dad serving as the biggest kid of us all. It was a pleasure to name the scholarship the Martin and Marian Ballard Memorial Women’s Soccer Scholarship since all their children and grandchildren were student-athletes and attended Spring Arbor. I have chosen to have the Athletic Policy Committee choose the student recipient in consultation with the soccer coach to be sure the recipient is a good student. I hope this scholarship will benefit both the student recipients and the athletic department at Spring Arbor.”

To endow a scholarship at SAU requires a $25,000 minimum investment. The return on an endowed investment is endless. There are many ways to fund a scholarship such as cash, bonds, stocks, real estate, trusts, annuities or a bequest from a will or living trust. For assistance, please contact Danny Lacy, director of planned giving, at [email protected] or 877.SAU.Legacy.

IMPACT your worldSECURING SCHOLARSHIPS


Spring Arbor University is not engaged in giving legal or tax advice. You may wish to seek the advice of your own advisor for specifics in your situation.

STAYCONNECTEDTO YOUR CLASSMATES AND SAU AFTER GRADUATION USING THE ALUMNI ONLINE COMMUNITY! mysau.arbor.edu/alumni

Upcoming Events: July 6 - 11 Jr. High Camp (Ages 11-13) July 13 - 15 Primary Camp I (Ages 7-9) July 16 - 18 Primary Camp II (Ages 7-9) July 13 - 18 High School Camp (Ages 13-18) July 20 - 25 Junior Camp I (Ages 9-12) July 27 - Aug. 1 Junior Camp II (Ages 9-12) Aug. 3 - 8 Junior Camp III (Ages 9-12)

Contact Kris Healy at [email protected] or 517.523.3616 (Ext 139) for more information on above camps or for retreats and group reservations. Or visit www.michindoh.com.

>> become a fan on facebook.com/springarboru >> follow us @springarboru

alumni today

BASEBALL REUNIONOn Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013, nearly 100 friends and family (including more than 50 former players) returned to Spring Arbor University for Homecoming Weekend to celebrate the life and legacy of Coach Hank Burbridge.

The Hank Burbridge Player Reunion included a family cookout, commemorative T-shirt, stories and memories, family and player photos, baseball clubhouse tour, and fellowship at the home of Patricia Burbridge.

We would like to thank President Brent Ellis, Irene Price Greiner HS ’60, Coach Sam Riggleman ’73, SAU, the family of Coach Burbridge, and all of the players and families that attended the annual event.

We look forward to this reunion becoming an annual SAU Homecoming event.

Go Cougars!Tim Johnston ’95 Marc Oliver ’96 Matt Potter ’89 Scott Salow ’91 Tom Salow ’88

a missionary-teacher in Rwanda. She was preceded in death by her brother, Richard HS ’45, JC ’47; sister, Teddy; and son, Brent ’91. Mary Jo is survived by a son, Paul; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Harold L. DeCan HS ’40 of Spring Arbor passed away on Jan. 26. After graduating from Spring Arbor Junior College, Harold served in the United States Army during World War II before returning to his hometown and working at Dowley Manufacturing, where he served as vice president for 30 years. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Ruth Louise (Scofield) JC ’42. Harold is survived by four children, Richard L., Barbara L. (1971-73, 1985-87), C. Dale and Kenneth D. ’82; sister-in-law, Doris J. Scofield; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dale L. Hendershot HS ’61, ’65 of Taylor passed away on Jan. 27. For 31 years Dale was a chemistry and math teacher at Kennedy High School. He also was a real estate broker and income tax business owner in Allen Park for 30 years. He is survived by wife, Sharon, children Michelle Ranta ’91, Lisa ’94 (Mark) Hixon, and Dawn ’95 (Jim ’87, ’10) Weidman; grandchildren Meganne Ranta, Karis Ranta, Sophia Ranta, Drew Ranta, Zachary Weidman and Bethany Weidman.

Evelyn (Black HS ’49, JC ’51) Howe, of Perry, Mich., passed away on Sept. 5, 2013. She was 82. Evelyn was an elementary teacher, homemaker and sales associate. Evelyn was also CEO of Raelyn Hill Estates and Howe Line Construction Co., which she led along with her husband of 61 years, Rae HS ’48, JC ’51. Evelyn was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Scheuermann. She is survived by Rae; children, Douglas ’75, Timothy (1980),

Susan Tidball and Sherrie Blume; brothers, Dale, Norman and David; sister, Gerry Chandler HS ’53, JC ’56; and 10 grandchildren.

Jerry Mack ’70, of Newaygo, Mich., passed away on Oct. 14, 2013. He was 65. Jerry taught high school science for 13 years before being called into the ministry. He served at Country Bible Church in Fremont, Mich., for the past 15 years. Jerry is survived by his wife of 42 years, Gale (Denton ’70); two children; and three grandchildren.

Eldon Sayre JC ’40, of Spring Arbor, passed away on Oct. 17, 2013. He was 92. Eldon was a missionary in Zimbabwe for 32 years, serving as a preacher, teacher, church builder and school inspector. Later he was a principal and administrator for schools in California and Ohio and was a part-time instructor at Greenville College. Eldon was preceded in death by his sister, Geraldine; and brothers, Arthur, and Roland JC ’32. He is survived by his wife, Florence; five daughters; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Wava (Adams HS ’41) Stone, of Spring Arbor, passed away on Aug. 16, 2013. She was 90. Wava was a pastor’s wife, serving with her first husband, Harold Tjepkema. She was also employed as an underwriting assistant for 24 years. Wava was preceded in death by Harold, as well as her second husband, Lyle Stone; six siblings; and a son, John Tjepkema. She is survived by her children, Mary Scott and David Tjepkema ’72; daughter-in-law, Janet (White ’68) Tjepkema; step-children, Daniel Stone and Jewel Richardson; four grandchildren, including alumni Amy (Tjepkema ’91) Hawkins and Beth (Tjepkema ’93) Hall; and three great-grandchildren.

Remembering faculty

Charles Morrisey of Spring Arbor, passed away on Dec. 22, 2013. He was 73. Charles was a professor of English at Spring Arbor University from 1986 until his retirement in 2006. He is fondly remembered by former students and colleagues

“Charlie was a consummate gentleman and scholar. He cared deeply about his students and was generous with his time on their behalf. He was a model of ‘a lifelong learner,’ always reading new (and old) books and reaching for excellence in all he did,” said Marsha Daigle-Williamson, retired SAU assistant professor of English.

Charles is survived by his wife Carol; son Trevor ’04 (Alicia) and their daughter Lily; son Sean;

daughter Susanna ’09 (Tony) Rowser and their sons Damarius and Dominic; and grandson Anton Karl. He was preceded in death by his parents and his oldest daughter Elizabeth Karl ’01.

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MAY 2014 - SEPTEMBER 2014

alumni [ EVENTS ]

Mentoring Alumni Program (MAP)

Perhaps no other program offers more opportunities to strengthen bonds with our alumni than our Mentoring Alumni Program. Many of our alumni have received degrees since the mid-1990s and most of our recent alumni have an intense career focus.

Many articles and studies indicate there is also intense competition for the time, talents and resources of these same career-focused alumni. If we want to reach many of them our only chance may be through their career interests. And if we want to strengthen the bond with them, career programming and support may well offer the best opportunity.

The Office of Alumni Relations along with the Office of Career Development have created MAP to help reconnect with these recent grads.

from the desk of…Irene Price Greiner Director, Office of Alumni Relations

HERITAGE ALUMNI CELEBRATIONThursday, May 15 - Saturday, May 17Spring Arbor, main campus Thursday, May 15 E.P. Hart LuncheonTo honor former inducteesFellowship HallSpring Arbor Free Methodist Church

Friday, May 16 SAU BaccalaureateSpring Arbor Free Methodist Church

Saturday, May 17SAU Commencements10:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m.Fieldhouse

SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN CHAPTER

EVENTSaturday, July 26Detroit Institute of Arts

CHICAGO ALUMNI & FRIENDS

REUNIONSaturday, August 23Buca di Beppo Orland Park, Ill.

NEW YORK CIT Y THEATRE

EXCURSIONThursday, September 18 - Sunday, September 21Experience four fun-filled days of shopping, sightseeing and theatre.

HOMECOMING & FAMILY WEEKENDFriday, October 3 - Sunday, October 5Spring Arbor, main campus

Visit arbor.edu/alumni for more details on all SAU alumni excursions and events.

alumni chapter EVENT RECAPSLAKELAND, FLORIDA | The annual Lakeland reunion was held at Light & Life Park on Saturday, Jan. 18, at Hood Hall with over 200 in attendance.

Brent Ellis, university president, shared campus updates, and his plans for this coming year centered around the theme of “Pursuing Wisdom.” Irene Price Greiner HS ’60 welcomed first-time attendees and master of ceremonies Byron Davey ’68 introduced the planning committee. A pot roast dinner was served by Roberts Wesleyan College alumni. Becky (Smith ’71) Bell led the music portion of the program.

Get involved with the Lakeland chapter by contacting Lorna (Casement ’68) Angus at [email protected] or Marge (Stark ’69) Wilson at [email protected].

SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN CHRISTMAS PARTY | Irene Price Greiner HS ’60 welcomed alumni to the Gazebo Banquet Hall in Warren on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013. Ron Kopicko ’77, campus chaplain, provided a prayer for the meal and also delivered a Christmas message.

Santa Claus, portrayed by Tim Stapleton ’98, visited with each child in attendance and presented them with stockings. Drawings for prizes were done throughout the afternoon and winners introduced themselves and described their connection to SAU.

Get involved with the Southeast Michigan alumni chapter by contacting Anita Graham ’91 at [email protected].

JACKSON CHRISTMAS PARTY | Over 125 were in attendance at the Cascades Manor House on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013. Following the luncheon Shelby (Sheridan ’96) Raines served as master of ceremonies for a program. Shelby interviewed our new presidential couple, Brent and Christy Ellis, with questions suggested by the attendees.

A string ensemble of SAU students performed several Christmas pieces, Gerrilee Lacy ’00 provided a Christmas reading, and gift drawings were held throughout the event.

Get involved with the Jackson alumni chapter by contacting Wade ’67 and Marge (Stark ’69) Wilson at [email protected].

SAU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

FOREVER

MENTORING ALUMNI PROGRAM

Looking to relocate or searching for a mentor? Access SAU’s Mentoring Alumni Program (MAP), a professional networking tool available to all students and alumni. Simply go to arbor.edu/mentoring and choose a state or profession to find contact and occupation information for alumni professionals. This program provides students and alumni with an invaluable opportunity to gain information from alumni who have firsthand experience in that region or field.

To be a contact in your region or field, go to arbor.edu/mentoring or submit your name, title, career field and contact information to Irene Price Greiner at [email protected] or 517.750.6725.

MAP

EVENT SPONSORED IN PART BY:

Simply Lead.

May 9, 2014presented by Spring Arbor University

The live simulcast will air locally in Jackson, Michigan, on Friday at 9:00 a.m.Michigan Theatre, 124 N. Mechanic Street, Jackson, MI 49201

The annual event will broadcast live from Atlanta to hundreds of venues, featuring some of the world’s best thought leaders on business, creativity and leadership.

Join over 125,000 leaders throughout North America and around the world attending the leadership development experience.

Reserve your spot today.arbor.edu/leadercast

The cost is $65 per person and includes lunch.

Reserve your spot today.arbor.edu/leadercast

The cost is $65 per person and includes lunch.

ALUMNI TUITIONCERTIFICATEYou have a new baby! What a blessing.

Several years ago, Spring Arbor University began issuing a tuition certificate to newborn or newly-adopted children or grandchildren of alumni born on or after Jan. 1, 2006.

Upon enrolling full-time at Spring Arbor University’s main campus, your child or grandchild will be entitled to a $2,500 tuition credit to attend your alma mater in a traditional undergraduate program (main campus). Our desire is to honor you as alumni parents and grandparents and encourage your child to attend SAU.

Please contact Irene Price Greiner in the Office of Alumni Relations at 517.750.6725 or 877.ALUM.ARBOR with your child’s birth or adoption announcement. You will be asked to provide a photocopy of the child’s birth certificate or adoption papers. You will then receive a tuition certificate, numbered and signed for your newborn or newly-adopted child or grandchild.

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• 25th and 40th Class Reunions (Classes of 1989 & 1974)• Family/Student Brunch• 5K Run/2-Mile Walk and Kids’ Fun Run• Kids’ Carnival • Athletic Events• SAU Spirit Tent• Alumni Awards Banquet• Athletic Hall of Fame Banquet• Campus Tours

HOMECOMING& FAMILY WEEKEND 2014

SAU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

FOREVER

Look in the fall issue of the Journal for all of the final details for Homecoming & Family Weekend 2014.

Mark your calendar!

Thanks for coming in 2013! Alumni, family, students, parents and friends enjoyed another great Homecoming and Family Weekend Oct. 4-6, 2013. There was an assortment of activities catered to the entire family. This was a great time to revisit campus, reflect and connect with alumni and friends!

OCTOBER 3-5


106 E. Main Street Spring Arbor, MI 49283-9701

877.ALUM.ARBOR | arbor.edu

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT

Junior Katie Storrer decided to attend Spring Arbor to play tennis. But it was the community, the way God was working in her life spiritually, and the chances she has had to develop her leadership skills that have made her Spring Arbor experience life-changing.

“Tennis brought me to Spring Arbor. But it was God who kept me here.”

Without assistance from scholarships and financial aid, Katie would be unable to attend Spring Arbor. Your gifts to the Arbor Fund help support Katie and students like her. To learn more about how the Arbor Fund impacts students, visit arbor.edu/arborfund.

LIVE ON PURPOSE

MEETKATIE.

spring arbor university: journal spring 2014

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