Building on the Legacy of Donald W. Maine

Transcription

FAL L
Building on the Legacy
of Donald W. Maine
2015
.
V O L U ME
8
.
No.
3
Alumni & Development
Peg Luy
Executive Vice President for Alumni & Development
[email protected]
FALL 2015 . VOLUME 8 . No. 3
On the shoulders of greatness
The cover of this issue of DU Review features a man
to whom this institution and its communities owe a
great debt of gratitude, and for whom our College of
Business and the new building that will be its home
are appropriately named. When the new building is
completed, it will be home for the Donald W. Maine
College of Business and its Entrepreneurship Center.
The creativity and growth that will occur in that new
building will be an appropriate tribute to a man who
tapped into a great amount of creativity to achieve
tremendous growth during his 23 years as President
and Chancellor of Davenport.
Among the many accomplishments achieved under Don’s leadership was the introduction
of bachelor’s and master’s degrees, the expansion of the Davenport systems across the state of
Michigan, the expansion of programs appealing to non-traditional students, the unification
of the University into one institution in 2000, and even the initial planning for what would
become DU’s new W.A. Lettinga Campus. He also brought higher education into the internet
age when Davenport launched its online degree programs in the 1990s.
In the 15 or so years since Don’s retirement, Davenport has continued to grow and refine
as a quality institution, but the impact of Don’s leadership cannot be underestimated. As I
have said often, we stand on the shoulders of the great leaders that have come before us, and
that includes Don Maine. We could not hope to accomplish our ambitious vision to be ranked
among higher education leaders without the hard work that Don Maine first accomplished
between 1977 and 2000.
We are about to enter 2016, when we will celebrate Davenport University’s 150th
Anniversary. Throughout the year we will be acknowledging the leadership of great men who
led this institution throughout the ages, like Conrad Swensburg, Michael E. Davenport,
Robert W. Sneden and Randolph Flechsig. We also will see an amazing, tangible tribute
emerge on the southeast corner of the W.A. Lettinga Campus, paying homage to the
tremendous leadership of Donald W. Maine. We hope you will join us a year or so from now
when we dedicate the new facility in Don’s honor!
Michele Davis
Executive Director of Grant Development
[email protected]
Louise Kidd
Executive Director of Leadership Gifts &
Donor Services
[email protected]
Jason Madden, MBA ’08
Executive Director of Alumni & Development
[email protected]
Nick Glaser
Director of Major Gifts
[email protected]
Sarah Mitchell
Director of Prospect Research and
Scholarship Stewardship
[email protected]
Courtney Sorrell
Assistant Director of Annual Giving
[email protected]
Sara Hop, ’09
Assistant Director of Alumni Communications
and Development
[email protected]
Erik Dane, MBA ’07
Assistant Director of Alumni Relations & Events
[email protected]
Laura Macka
Manager of Data Systems & Gift Processing
[email protected]
Mary Nelsen
Executive Administrative Assistant
[email protected]
Marketing & Communications
Robin Luymes, MM ’15, APR
Executive Director of Communications
[email protected]
Steve Landrum, EMBA ’13
Executive Director of Marketing
[email protected]
Richard Crispo
Creative Director
[email protected]
Lyndsie Post, MBA ’11
Director of Communications
[email protected]
Maggie Kennedy
Communications Manager
[email protected]
Elizabeth Szubinski, MBA ’14
Marketing Project Manager
[email protected]
John Teichman
Graphic Designer
[email protected]
Online
davenport.edu/DUReview
Sincerely,
Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D.
President
facebook.com/DUAlumni
twitter.com/DavenportU
flickr.com/photos/davenportuniversity
youtube.com/davenportweb
DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW is
published by Davenport University, 6191
Kraft Avenue, Grand Rapids, MI 49512
2 | DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW
(L to R): DU students Julia Mayer and Andrew Habasevich, Rockford Construction CEO Mike Van Gessel, Board Vice-Chair Ken Yerrick, Board Trustee Michelle Van Dyke,
Board Trustee Bob Hetzler, Dr. Rick Pappas, Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine, Board Chair Frank Merlotti, Board Trustee Carol Van Andel, DU student Jordan Neuhaus and
Dean Pamela Imperato line up for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Donald W. Maine College of Business building.
“I’ve been connected
to Davenport for 44
years now. What we
have achieved is
because of the
dedication and hard
work of the board,
staff and faculty.
Thousands of students
have been prepared to
take their future places
as industry leaders.”
- Donald W. Maine
Building on the legacy of Donald W. Maine
In December 2016, the new 60,000-square-foot Donald W. Maine College of Business
building will open and continue the legacy of Donald W. Maine, who served as Chancellor
and President of Davenport from 1977 to 2000. His vision and the strategic initiatives he
implemented helped make Davenport one of the leading private, non-profit universities in
the State of Michigan.
Under Maine’s leadership, Davenport developed from a college offering only associate
degree programs to a fully accredited university providing undergraduate and graduate
degrees in business, technology and health professions. Online programs were introduced
at Davenport during his time, making the University the first in Michigan and among
the first in the nation to offer online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Also, Maine oversaw
the unification of three separate colleges across the state into one University and laid the
groundwork for the construction of the W.A. Lettinga Campus.
“We all stand on the shoulders of this man who served as President and Chancellor of
Davenport for 23 years,” said Dr. Rick Pappas. “Don remains actively involved with the
University, and we treasure his friendship and his love for Davenport.”
Necessitated by the growing enrollment at the W.A. Lettinga Campus, the new threestory facility will allow for continued growth of academic programs in the Donald W.
Maine College of Business. It will also free up space within the other academic facilities to
accommodate the continued growth of technology, health and arts and science programs.
A new Entrepreneurship Center will be developed and housed within the new facility
to guide and advise entrepreneurs ready to build and expand their successful, high-value,
DAVENPORT.EDU | 3
Above and Left: Renderings of the 60,000-square-foot Donald W. Maine College of
Business Left (L to R): Dr. Rick Pappas, Board Vice-Chair Ken Yerrick, Board Chair Frank
Merlotti, Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine, Board Trustee Michelle Van Dyke, Board Trustee
Carol Van Andel, Rockford Construction CEO Mike Van Gessel and Dean Pamela Imperato.
high-growth companies and create more jobs. There will be flexible space
available to support up to three companies in the Entrepreneurship
Center’s business accelerator program. The atmosphere, which will be
modeled more as a corporate headquarters than an academic building,
will engage business students in real-world settings to prepare them for
their careers after graduation.
“I’ve been connected to Davenport for 44 years now,” stated Maine.
“What we have achieved is because of the dedication and hard work of
the board, staff and faculty. Thousands of students have been prepared to
take their future places as industry leaders.”
On a beautiful day in November, Davenport President Dr. Rick
Pappas joined with Board Chair Frank Merlotti, Chancellor Emeritus
Don Maine, Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business and
College of Technology Pamela Imperato, plus board trustees and others
to break ground on the new building.
“I am humbled and astonished my name is on this building,”
remarked Maine. “It is an unbelievable honor, and I am deeply grateful.”
Students participate in Panther Prowl team building activities.
Panther Prowl 2015
To kick off the academic year, the Center for Campus Life
planned a four-day transitional program right after students
moved in to help them ease into college. More than 400 students
were led through daily activities by trained upperclassmen called
Pack Leaders. Nationally recognized speakers presented on topics
such as forming relationships, developing social habits, academic
and financial success, maintaining proper health and wellness,
leadership development and familiarizing themselves with the
campus culture. Social activities were offered to break down
barriers and build relationships. Events included a drive-in movie,
capture the flag game, bonfire, dance party, team building trust
course, scavenger hunt, mud run volunteer activity and night in
the student center.
Pounce, staff and faculty welcome new students at Convocation.
Third annual Convocation
kicks-off academic year
Convocation is the official academic welcome of students to
Davenport University, celebrated annually in academic regalia. The
2015 Convocation was held at the W. A. Lettinga Campus in the
Student Activity Center for new, incoming students. This ceremony,
featuring messages from Dr. Rick Pappas and Dr. Linda Rinker,
Executive Vice President for Academics and Provost, introduced
students to their academic team and prepared them for their rich
and rewarding Davenport careers.
4
DAVENPORT.EDU | 5
Homecoming 2015 featured a plethora of fun-filled activities for alumni, faculty,
staff and students. This year’s celebrations included a chili cook-off, a Zombie Run,
the Alumni Awards, the dedication of the expanded Farmers Insurance Athletic
Complex, a football game, the Panther Ambassador Campaign and more!
With the second phase of the Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex complete, a
dedication was held on Saturday, Oct. 3, before the homecoming tailgate festivities
and game. The second phase, made possible by a gift of 45 acres from Farmers
Insurance Group of Companies, added a new competition field for football, soccer
and rugby, plus track and field facilities.
The dedication included remarks from Dr. Rick Pappas; Frank Merlotti, Chair
of Davenport’s Board of Trustees; Paul Lowden, DU’s Athletic Director; and Steve
Boshoven, President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance. Afterward, DU hosted
a Homecoming tailgate and an inter-squad football game.
1
2
3
1. The 2015 Panther Ambassadors, Trisha Madura and Courtenay Tafel. 2. DU Spirit Rock gets painted for Homecoming 2015. 3. The new football team participates in an intersquad scrimmage in preparation for the fall 2016 season.
Davenport welcomes new Athletic
Communications staff
Ryan Thompson and Ryan Hornack are the newest additions
to the Davenport University Athletic Department. Thompson
serves as the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications
while Hornack is the Athletic Communications Coordinator. The
duo previously worked together for the last two years at Adrian
College, serving in similar roles.
Thompson and Hornack are in charge of all aspects of athletic
communications, which includes the maintenance of the athletic
website (dupanthers.com), computer statistics for all home
athletic events, press releases, video streaming live events for the
Davenport Athletics Network and numerous other duties.
Thompson is no stranger to West Michigan. As a 1999
graduate of Grand Valley State University, he worked as a
student assistant for four years before serving as Assistant Sports
Information Director upon graduation. He then accepted a
position as Sports Information Director at Northwood University
(2001–2004), Saginaw Valley State University (2004–2007) and
Adrian College (2007–2015).
“I am very excited to be working for a bustling athletic
department at Davenport University,” said Thompson. “I really
LEFT: New Assistant Athletic Director for Communications Ryan Thompson.
RIGHT: New Athletic Communications Coordinator Ryan Hornack.
enjoy the area and look forward to many great memories as a
Panther. I’ve seen the commitment to excellence at DU and hope
to contribute toward future successes.”
Hornack broke into the field of athletic communications after
an internship at Adrian College in the summer of 2013. He helped
Thompson with the publicity of 36 varsity and non-varsity sports,
which included production of information guides for 12 sports.
Hornack graduated from Pennsylvania State University in 2014
with a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Management. He will
also pursue his MBA while at Davenport University.
Davenport receives accreditation
for sport management program
Davenport University recently received accreditation from the Commission
on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA) for its Bachelor of Business
Administration in Sport Management. The COSMA Board of Commissioners
reviewed Davenport’s program based on the eight COSMA accreditation principles,
which require an academic unit/sport management program to show that its
program displays excellence in undergraduate sport management education and
continuous improvement through COSMA’s developmental approach. Davenport
University joins 24 other universities across the country with this accreditation,
with only one other being in Michigan.
DAVENPORT.EDU | 7
Men’s Golf finishes second
in the WHAC
The men’s golf team competed in five one-day Wolverine
Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) jamborees, consisting of
18 holes per round, during the fall season. The Panthers finished
second in the overall standings, just four strokes behind Siena
Heights University, with a five-round total of 1,470 strokes.
Northwestern Ohio finished third (1,481), and Indiana Tech
came in fourth (1,490). The WHAC also announced league
awards after the final round on October 14. Seniors Mitchell
Wandell and Jorge Benitez had a remarkable fall and were named
First Team All-WHAC, tied with the second-lowest stroke total
(362). Wandell also received the team’s Champion of Character
award for sportsmanship on the course and was named Academic
All-WHAC along with teammate Jamie Cattran.
Senior Jorge Benitez (Zaragoza, Spain) excels in the WHAC jamboree. Over the
course of the fall season, Benitez and fellow senior Mitchell Wandell both earned
First Team WHAC honors and tied for second lowest stroke total (362).
DU Softball recognized for
academic success by National
Fastpitch Coaches Association
The National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA)
announced its Top 10 NAIA Academic Team rankings for the
2014–15 school year, and the Panthers ranked fourth with a
cumulative team GPA of 3.555. The NFCA also announced
that 5,493 softball players across seven membership divisions
earned NFCA All-America Scholar-Athlete honors for the
2014–15 academic year. The NAIA amassed 410 recipients, and
DU was represented by 14 players: Ashleigh Blovsky, Cayley
Duddles, Cayman Gatt, Lauren Groendyk, Alyssa Koziol,
Kyleigh Linebaugh, Emily Maves, Britt McLain, Sam Merren,
Haley Obetts, Carli SanMillan, Sarah Schneidenbach, Lindsay
Tasma and Sarah Wallick.
Senior Alyssa Koziol (Willow Springs, Ill.) was recognized for academic success.
(L to R): Darwin Mitchell, James Gustafson, Chrystal Badour, Kirin Krafthefer. Four of the O. J. DeJonge Middle School 2014–15 officers drafting plans for an upcoming activity
they’re planning for the student body.
Davenport to host first annual Michigan BPA Middle Level Conference
Davenport University is proud to host the first annual
Michigan Business Professionals of America Middle Level
Conference on Feb. 27, 2016. Middle Level provides middle
school students the opportunity to apply acquired skills while
participating in business-related competitive events. BPA
competitions place emphasis on computer skills, teamwork,
research and presentation. Students may compete at both the state
and national levels.
“We are very excited to be hosting the first annual Michigan
BPA Middle Level Leadership Conference,” said Ron Draayer,
Davenport University faculty member and BPA advisor. “BPA
is the leading career technical student organization for students
pursuing careers in business management, accounting, information
technology and other related career fields. It is a great opportunity
to be able to expose younger students to BPA and spark their
interest in these fields.”
Davenport University has a long history with BPA having earned
first-place awards at 84 national BPA events over the past seven years.
Students from Davenport University will have the opportunity to
participate as volunteers at the Middle Level conference.
For more information visit davenport.edu/mlbpa.
Davenport launches new 12-month MBA platform
The Donald W. Maine College of Business offers a 30-credit Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in three different
platforms through its global online campus and locations throughout Michigan. Along with the Competency-based MBA and the
traditional MBA, students are now being offered the 12-month MBA platform. With this platform, students in a cohort format are given a
predetermined schedule that leads to completion in 12 months.
“We see the 12-month MBA as a way for companies to attract and maintain their high-potential employees,” said Dr. Pamela
Imperato, Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business and College of Technology. “Cohort-based learning has long been shown to
help students move through a program and maximize the opportunities for things like peer-to-peer learning and team building that are so
necessary in an MBA program.”
DAVENPORT.EDU | 9
Alpha League members with Patrick Miles, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan
Alpha League brings new leadership opportunities to DU students
This past fall, Davenport University launched the Alpha League Global Leadership program, bringing brotherhood and leadership
to men of diverse ethnic, racial and socioeconomic backgrounds through philanthropy, scholarship, leadership and social/emotional
workshops. Alpha League emphasizes the learning and application of African American philosophies and their interrelationship to college
education and the global workforce. As a special interest leadership program, Alpha League is an organization for all men who have an
interest in the history, philosophy and culture of African American males and who are seeking to learn personal leadership skills and form
lifelong relationships.
“I created the Alpha League Global Leadership program to give hope and tools to the African American male population in Grand
Rapids,” said Terry Rostic, Senior Community College Admissions Representative and founder of the Alpha League. “There have been
several nationally published articles that mention Grand Rapids, Michigan, as one of the top five worst cities in the entire country for
African Americans. I never want to see my city at the top of any list that involves the worst place to live for any race. I believe the only way
to make positive, lasting change in our society is through education and opportunity.”
With 27 members this fall, the Alpha League has developed a wait list until more funds are available to support additional members.
The group holds bi-weekly meetings called Global Leader Summits, where they have professional and personal workshops, guest speakers
and brotherhood fellowship. The topics covered during the workshops this semester are commitment, personal vision, positive self-identity,
life skills, social and emotional skills, moral character and work ethic.
“I joined Alpha League because I knew it could provide the support I will need to be successful in my years at Davenport,” said Alpha
League member and Davenport freshman Tommy Brown. “I want to be successful. I want to defy the statistics. With the Alpha League, I
have a lifelong brotherhood that will never be broken. All of us will be successful.”
Davenport earns fourth
consecutive diversity honor
Davenport University has received the 2015 Higher Education Excellence in
Diversity (HEED) Award from INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine, the oldest
and largest diversity-focused publication in higher education. This marks the
fourth consecutive year Davenport has been honored with the HEED Award,
which recognizes U.S. colleges and universities that demonstrate an outstanding
commitment to diversity and inclusion. Davenport University will be featured along
with 91 other recipients in INSIGHT Into Diversity’s November 2015 issue.
“We are honored to be recognized with this award for the fourth consecutive year.
Davenport University prides itself on the exemplary diversity and inclusion initiatives
and its ability to embrace a broad definition of diversity at all of its campuses across
Michigan, including gender, race, ethnicity, veterans, people with disabilities,
members of the LGBT community and others,” said Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Executive
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Davenport University.
Advocating at
the State Capitol
Davenport University students and staff
from across Michigan spent a day at the
State Capitol on October 28 to advocate for
Michigan Tuition Grant (MTG) funding.
Students met with a number of State
Legislators, including Rep. Andy Schor and
Sen. Steve Bieda, to discuss the importance of
MTG funding and other pressing state issues,
including jobs, road funding and healthcare.
Also, staff and students met with Lt. Gov.
Brian Calley while seated in the Senate Gallery.
The MTG is a critical piece of funding that
helps students who would otherwise take out
student loans to pay for college. During the
2014–2015 academic year, nearly 3,000 DU
students received MTG funding — equating
to more than $3 million in state aid. Student
scholarships and grants like the MTG assist
college students with covering tuition costs
without going deeper into student loan debt.
Staff and students on the floor of the Senate Chamber with Senator Steve Bieda (D-Warren).
DAVENPORT.EDU | 11
2
1
Clockwise: 1. Traverse City (L to R): Back row: Tammy Flores,
Rachel Dudziak and instructor Vicky Fagerstrom; Front row: Cindy Craig
and Ashley Peterman. 2. Lansing: Strides Against Breast Cancer
walkers. 3. Livonia (L to R): Schoolcraft Community College student
4
Maurice Houston, Davenport Senior Community College Admissions
3
Rep. Jennifer Salloum and Schoolcraft Community College student
Christopher Ford. Both students are planning to transfer to DU’s W.A.
Campus news round-up
Holland
Holland Campus staff and faculty volunteered for Day
of Caring on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2015. This is an annual
program through the Ottawa County United Way, which
mobilizes volunteers to provide support to non-profit
organizations. This year there were 660 volunteers and 57
projects. The Davenport team consisted of Dr. Tim Pennings,
Kelly Wandel, Frank Roder, Tammy Stachowicz and Rhonda
Prins. They spent the afternoon at Evergreen Commons
Senior Center in Holland and helped with grounds work and
planting tulip beds.
Lansing
The Lansing Campus joined nearly 3,000 participants
and 161 other teams on Saturday, October 10, 2015, to make
a difference by participating in the Making Strides Against
Breast Cancer walk at the Michigan State Capital. The
Lansing team featured more than 75 participants, who raised
over $500 toward the cause. The funds support a number of
services offered by the American Cancer Society, including
transportation and lodging for treatment, support groups,
workshops, research and more.
Lettinga Campus. 4. Holland: Holland staff sprucing up Evergreen
Commons Senior Center.
Livonia
Students spent the day at the Livonia Campus with CIOs
and technology managers from some of Michigan’s largest
corporations to receive priceless mentoring, information
and feedback from experts in the field. Students enjoyed a
day of networking, receiving resume and interview tips and
participating in a panel discussion. This allowed them to
pose questions to the experts about developing and initiating
a job search strategy, differentiating themselves from the
competition, creating a public image through social media,
answering interview questions effectively, speaking about
their career goals and more. It was a day of intense learning
and huge value to the students who attended.
Traverse City
Students from the Traverse City NURS 415 Evidence
Based Nursing Practice course presented their research to the
Evidence Based Practice Council at Munson Medical Center
in Traverse City on September 21.
DU staff members at the KVCC University Center (from L to R): Shubhada Sagdeo, Kristi Zimmerman, Kathy Stewart, Amanda Hoxie, Amy Doxtater
A commitment to students
At the core of Davenport’s success is its commitment
to students. Equipping them with the knowledge, global
competencies and values they need to achieve career success is lifechanging and a key aspiration of Vision 2020.
One way Davenport is expanding and enhancing access to
its career-focused education is by developing partnerships with
community colleges to provide a more streamlined pathway for
students to earn a bachelor’s or graduate degree.
As announced last summer, Davenport established partnerships
with Mott Community College (MCC) in Flint and Kalamazoo
Valley Community College (KVCC) in Kalamazoo, with more
partnerships to be announced soon. Students who earn their
associate degrees at these community colleges will be able to
seamlessly transfer their credits to a bachelor degree program at
DU, continuing their studies at the same location.
“Mott College is committed to ensuring our students have
opportunities to achieve their educational and career goals in
ways best suited to their needs,” said Dr. Beverly Walker-Griffea,
President of Mott Community College. “The partnership with
Davenport University represents a new initiative to provide access
to four-year degree programs through one of our Branch Centers
and supports our mission to deliver quality education where our
Genesee County students want it.”
In the MCC University Center, Davenport has dedicated
classrooms and lab and lecture space as well as access to MCC’s
library, computer labs and more.
In partnering with KVCC, Davenport became the first
institution in KVCC’s University Center at the Texas Township
Campus giving students access to dining services, the library,
computer labs, gym facilities and classrooms.
“We think the university center concept is a logical solution
to the degree-completion challenges that many of our students
face by providing new and unique opportunities,” noted Marilyn
Schlack, President of Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
“We are excited to have Davenport become part of our University
Center. Davenport’s focus on degrees that lead to careers is very
consistent with our mission here at KVCC.”
DAVENPORT.EDU | 13
Dr. Pamela Imperato named Dean
of College of Business and Technology
Following a thorough national search, Davenport University has named Pamela R.
Imperato, Ph.D., as Dean of the Donald W. Maine College of Business and the College
of Technology. Previously, Dr. Imperato was Dean of the College of Business at Bellevue
University, where she oversaw 24 academic programs including a Ph.D. program as well as 11
undergraduate programs.
In her new role, Dr. Imperato will lead the development of new programs while overseeing
the operations and budget for both the College of Business and the College of Technology.
Dr. Imperato served as a Director/Assistant Professor of the Master of Public
Administration Program, where she launched the inaugural graduate program in public
administration for the university. She also served as the Program Director of the Center for
Healthcare, Nonprofit and Public Administration. Dr. Imperato holds a Doctorate of Political
Science in Public Administration and Public Policy from University of Nebraska, a Master of
Administration in Critical and Creative Thinking from the University of Massachusetts and a
Bachelor of Science in Biology from Emmanuel College.
Frank Merlotti steps in as new Board Chair
Frank Merlotti, retired former president of Coalesse and Steelcase North
America, has been appointed as Board Chair of the Davenport University Board
of Trustees. Previously serving as Vice Chairman of the Board, Merlotti succeeds
Tracy Graham, who stepped down after serving as Board Chair for the last five
years. Graham will remain on the Board and continue to provide his knowledge
and support.
Having sat on the Board for the last nine years, Merlotti is excited to step into
this next position of leadership. Under his guidance, the Board will move forward
guiding the University through Vision 2020 and exploring the possibility of a
metro Detroit campus.
Donna Milham honored with
Tyrus R. Wessell Award
Each year, Davenport bestows the University’s highest staff
recognition, the Tyrus R. Wessell Award, on faculty or staff
members who have demonstrated the University’s values through
their positive impact on the lives of Davenport students and staff.
Tyrus R. Wessell was a devoted faculty member and administrator
who served DU. He passed away in 2003 at the age of 90.
Donna Milham, the 2015 recipient of this prestigious award,
has been involved with the University for over 30 years beginning
as a student in the EMS Paramedic Program. In 1985, she started
working part-time at DU teaching CPR. She has served as an
Admissions Counselor, Advisor, Assistant Registrar and, currently,
the Registrar.
“Donna has had such an important impact on DU,” stated
Dr. Marjolijn van der Velde, Department Chair for the Donald
W. Maine College of Business. “Her professionalism rubs off
on others. Davenport just wouldn’t be the same without her
knowledge, her expertise and her kindness.”
(L to R): Grandson Jordan Sugiyama, granddaughter Kylie Sugiyama, Donna’s
significant other Hosea Greer, son-in-law Tim Sugiyama, Donna Milham,
Donna’s dad Edward McNally, Donna’s mom Joyce McNally, DBA and daughter
Katherine Sugiyama.
Long-time Board Member remembered
James N. DeBoer, Jr., a member of Davenport’s Board of Trustees and a dear
friend to the University for more than 40 years, passed away on July 5, 2015. Jim
retired from the Board in December 2012 and is remembered for his invaluable
expertise and wise counsel.
Jim was a neighbor and close friend of former Davenport President Robert
W. Sneden when he was asked to serve on Davenport’s board. His support helped
shepherd DU through accreditation to offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and
he assisted with the merger of Davenport College, Detroit College of Business and
Great Lakes College to form Davenport University as well as with establishment of
the W.A. Lettinga Campus. His support also led to the creation of Vision 2015.
Jim and his wife Joy were generous supporters of DU over the years and could
often be spotted at DU events. They assisted with DU’s comprehensive campaigns
and building projects and, in 2001, established a charitable gift annuity. In 2010,
the Executive Conference Room in the Robert W. Sneden Center was named for
James N. and Joy DeBoer.
“Jim served Davenport for almost a third of our entire history,” said Dr. Rick
Pappas.“He was a dear friend and committed supporter whom we will deeply miss.”
DAVENPORT.EDU | 15
A bright, sunny day
By Peg Luy
Executive Vice President for Alumni & Development
Below left: The first bits of ground are
ceremonially “broken.” Lower right:
Shovels stand at the ready in the warm sun.
When you plan an outdoor event for early November in Michigan, you can never be sure
what conditions you will need to be prepared to face. One year you might face a blizzard and the
next you’ll enjoy a bright, crisp sunny day. For the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Donald W.
Maine College of Business Building on November 4th, we enjoyed record-setting warmth under
bright skies. The tent that might have been necessary to fend off icy precipitation instead kept us
cool from the midday sun.
That we experienced such warmth on a day dedicated to breaking ground for a building
honoring Chancellor Emeritus Don Maine should be no surprise, as this project has received
a very warm reception since the day it was proposed. The generous response we have received
since the Investing in the Vision Campaign began just over two years ago gave this University the
confidence to get started on its largest and most visible pillar. To be able to honor Don, a man
who served Davenport with distinction for 23 years, is indeed an opportunity that we cherish.
Although we have broken ground and the completed building should be ready for ribbon
cutting and dedication in a year, the campaign continues to ensure it and the other pillars—the
development of the College of Urban Education and growth of our endowment to benefit
student scholarships—are fully funded. While we are about 80 percent of the way toward our
campaign goal—nearly $20 million toward our $25 million target as we begin the third year of
the five-year campaign—we continue to need your support through gifts large and small; each
contribution brings us one step closer to the full investment that Vision 2020 deserves.
I look forward to watching this new facility emerge over the next year and to the
opportunities it will provide for our students and faculty and for all of us in the years to come.
Won’t you consider in the coming months how you could help Davenport to reach the finish line
of this campaign before we officially open the doors of the Donald W. Maine College of Business
Building? Thank you so much for your consideration, and our very best wishes to you in 2016!
1
2
3
1. GRPS students Robert Brooks and Malik Kelley participate in the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) camp. 2. DU alumni Tori Brooks (’15) with Dr. Tim Pennings, Department Chair
of Mathematics. Brooks spoke to students attending the Numb3rs Camp. 3. GRPS student Milan Merriweather in the Numb3rs Camp.
Herman Miller Cares Foundation funds DU summer academic camps
When you think about children coming home from summer
camp, you imagine them telling their families about camp
fires, canoeing and fishing. But, do you imagine them excitedly
explaining a visit to a murder scene, fighting off a ferocious dragon
or learning physics from a dog? This past summer, thanks to a
generous gift from the Herman Miller Cares Foundation, Grand
Rapids area youth did just that!
Davenport has a tradition of helping those who struggle in
math/English to move on to a career-focused curricula with
innovative, interventive programs. As a result, the pass rate for
students in developmental math increased from 59% in 2011 to
76% in 2015 and in English from 55% to 86%, contributing
to a 110 percent increase in DU’s graduation rate. In this spirit,
Davenport wanted to create camps that would benefit youth
through participation.
This past summer, Davenport’s new College of Urban Education
worked collaboratively with the College of Arts and Sciences to offer
three Summer Academic Enrichment Camps (SAECs) that focused
on educating through experience. These camps will be offered again
in 2016 and 2017. The three camps included:
• CSI Davenport Forensic Science (Biology-focused)
• Write Your World (Creative Writing-focused)
• Numb3rs (Mathematics-focused)
At CSI Forensic Science Camp, students applied laboratory
techniques to analyze evidence recovered from a mock crime scene.
By day four, students had solved the crime. They identified the
victim (via forensic anthropology and blood typing), determined
time and cause of death (via forensic entomology and examining
skeletal remains) and identified which suspect committed the crime
(via blood-typing and DNA analysis). Students learned how to give
scientific presentations and prepare posters, culminating in oral and
visual presentations on the fifth day. Each day, different ScienceTechnology-Enginering-Math (STEM) careers were highlighted and
discussed by speakers working in STEM fields.
During Write Your World Camp, high school students explored
real and imaginary worlds through written expression in multiple
genres. They developed their creative writing voice through a variety
of activities, including prewriting, brainstorming, outlining, writing,
editing and revising exercises. Activities were engaging, inspiring
and fun in order to encourage the continuation of creative writing
not only during the school year and college but well into adulthood.
Activities combined digital and print experiences to broaden their
scope. They learned about document preparation, editing and
design through the creation of an anthology. The camp ended with
public readings and a reception for friends, family, staff and faculty.
At Numb3rs Camp, students participated in numerous activities
geared toward making high school math a fun, hands-on exploration
of the world. They studied probability by rolling dice, then applied
these probabilities to a game where they tried to find the best
strategy. They were challenged to find the best route to either visit all
or some given locations/paths (Hamilton and Euler Circuits). They
explored the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio to determine
how they occur in nature. Finally, they calculated the optimal path
for a dog trying to retrieve a tennis ball from Lake Michigan.
The three summer academic enrichment camps targeted high
school students from the greater Grand Rapids area who are
traditionally underrepresented in STEM and/or are economically
disadvantaged. Grand Rapids Public Schools, Michigan’s fourth
largest public school district, serves more than 17,000 students
through 1,400 teachers. Each year, SAECs aim to serve nearly 100
Grand Rapids youth.
DAVENPORT.EDU | 17
Davenport University receives
its largest gift in history from
M.E. Davenport Foundation
M.E. Davenport
Davenport University will receive a gift to its endowment
fund of $5.5 million over the next four years from the M.E.
Davenport Foundation. It is the single largest commitment
in the University’s history and brings historical giving to
Davenport University by the independent family foundation to
more than $15.4 million.
“This is an extraordinary gift from the M.E. Davenport
Foundation,” said Dr. Rick Pappas, President of Davenport
University. “This investment by the Foundation will have a
lasting impact on the University’s ability to develop innovative
new programs.”
“There are special moments in the life of a university like
welcoming new freshmen and congratulating graduating
seniors,” Dr. Pappas continued. “Some moments are truly
transformational; this gift from the family foundation of our
namesake, M.E. Davenport, is one of those moments.”
Marcia Sneden, President of the M.E. Davenport
Foundation, and Mary Sneden Sullivan, secretary/treasurer,
both granddaughters of the foundation’s namesake, issued this
statement on behalf of their Foundation Trustees:
“The M.E. Davenport Legacy Endowment is intended to
optimize the educational, professional and civic mission of
Davenport University. The projects funded by this Legacy
Endowment will advance academic excellence, promote
innovations in the professions and enrich the communities that
Davenport serves. Funded projects will exemplify the tenets of
an education at Davenport University that were so important
to our grandfather. We are excited about the future of the
University and the opportunity for our family foundation to
partner with Davenport in this enduring legacy.”
The perpetual innovation fund, for which details continue
to be developed, will support academic and learning-related
initiatives not subject to the regular university operating
budget, including potential initiatives which are part of the
University’s recently announced Vision 2020 innovative, longrange plan. The timing also anticipates year-long celebrations in
2016 of Davenport University’s 150th Anniversary.
“Throughout its existence, the M.E. Davenport Foundation
has supported Davenport University as well as other
community initiatives. With this gift, we are seeking to reflect
the shared origins and values of both the Foundation and
the University,” said Peggy Moceri, Chair of the Endowment
Committee and also a granddaughter of the foundation’s
namesake. “The purpose of the endowment is to regenerate, in
an enduring way, M.E. Davenport’s founding motto: Make a
Living, Make a Life, Make a Contribution.”
2
1
3
1. (L to R): Grandson David Meyering, daughter-in-law Laura Meyering, son John Meyering, wife Char Meyering, Jack Meyering, granddaughter Andrea Snyder. 2. (L to R):
Steve Boshoven, President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance; Jason Madden; Dr. Rick Pappas; Jack Meyering; Char Meyering; and Board Chair Frank Merlotti during the
presentation. 3. (L to R): Board Chair Frank Merlotti; President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance Steve Boshoven; and Dr. Rick Pappas..
Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex field dedication
On Saturday, October 3, the Davenport University community gathered to celebrate the expansion of the new Farmers Insurance
Athletic Complex. To mark the occasion, Steve Boshoven, President of Foremost Brand, Farmers Insurance, along with Jack Meyering and
his family gathered for a ceremony and lunch.
Farmers Insurance gifted the land for the expanded complex in addition to the land they donated in 2012 for the baseball, softball and
tennis complex. In total, they have donated 62 acres to DU.
Jack Meyering, a ’56 DU graduate and founder of Atlas Truck Rental & Leasing, and his wife, Char, made a generous commitment to
the University to name the new scoreboard and turf. Meyering Field appears on the scoreboard as a tribute to this gift.
“After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Davenport was an important step for me in developing the skills to pursue my career in
building a business,” said Meyering. “Davenport has built a great reputation for academics and now can provide the same opportunity for
their students to excel in the sports as well.”
The Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex will help meet the needs of the growing athletic programs. The field will be home to football,
soccer, track and field and men’s rugby.
This complex is an excellent reminder that life-changing experiences take place in and out of the classroom. Athletics are just one of the
many ways Davenport students gain meaningful experiences to Make a Living, Make a Life, and Make a Contribution.
Opportunities are still available to support the Farmers Insurance Athletic Complex. For information on making a gift or supporting
Davenport University’s mission, please visit davenport.edu/alumni-development/make-contribution or call Jason Madden in the Alumni and
Development Office at 616-233-2593.
DAVENPORT.EDU | 19
Swinging to support
student scholarships
Thanks to the generous support of 63 sponsors and 240 golfers,
more than $100,000 was raised for student scholarships and athletics
at the 29th Annual Scholarship Golf Classic.
We greatly appreciate everyone who came out to play and those
who joined us for dinner and the auction. We are sincerely grateful
to all of our sponsors for their generous contributions, including the
continuous support of our title sponsor, Integrated Architecture.
If you were unable to participate this year but would still like
to make a donation to student scholarships or athletics, please visit
davenport.edu/gift.
Major Sponsors:
Title Sponsor – Integrated Architecture
Beverage Sponsor – West Side Beer Distributing
Lunch Sponsors – Fifth Third Bank & Fifth Third Securities
Scorecard/Course Sponsor – Michigan Office Solutions
Scoring Sponsors – Custer and Nederveld
Putting Green Sponsor – Holland Special Delivery
Golfer Favor Sponsors – Interphase Interiors and Haworth
Cart Sponsor – Rockford Construction
Driving Range Sponsors – Cascade Cement Contractors
& Connan, Inc.
5
Golf Committee:
Jim Albers, Marcus Bradman, Mike Corby, Erik Dane, Linda Den Hartish, Damon
Gonzales, Bill Lettinga, Paul Lowden, Jason Madden, Mike Volk, Bruce Wynalda
DAVENPORT.EDU | 21
THANKS
Davenport University is honored by the support and commitment of many great partners in the
communities we serve. It is because of all of YOU — our alumni, staff, faculty and donors — that
we can proceed confidently in our mission of preparing students for successful careers and leadership
roles in our communities. On behalf of the students, staff and faculty of Davenport University, thank
you for your commitment to this institution and your continued support to help DU students “Get
Where the World Is Going!”
Sincerely,
Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D.
President
Davenport University expresses its gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their gifts to the University during the
2014–2015 fiscal year (July 1, 2014–June 30, 2015). Donors are recognized by the giving level as follows:
Investor Club: Gifts of $100,000 or more
Leader Club: Gifts of $50,000–$99,999
David and Carol Van Andel Foundation
Fifth Third Bank
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
M.E. Davenport Foundation
Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation
The Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation
Kenneth and Carole Yerrick
Alticor, Inc.
Amway Corporation
Creative Dining Services, Inc.
Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation
The Dick and Betsy DeVos Family Foundation
Internal Revenue Service
Rockford Construction
Wolverine Worldwide Foundation
Wolverine Worldwide, Inc.
Executive Club: Gifts of $10,000–$49,999
Area Community Service Employment
& Training Council
Barry Community Foundation
Franco and Alessandra Bianchi
Catherine Buzzitta
Joseph and Susan Buzzitta
Cumulus Media
Farmers Insurance Group
Robert and Joyce Hetzler
Hi-Tec Building Services Inc.
Brian and Tamra Hogan
Howard Miller Clock Company
J. C. Huizenga and Tammy Born
Integrated Architecture
Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg
Mary and Blake Krueger
Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga
William and Rochelle Lettinga
Liberty Mutual Group, Inc.
Frank and Susan Merlotti
†Deceased
Italics — indicates donors that have supported the University for the last five consecutive years or more.
*Denotes donor advised funds given through The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area
** Denotes donor advised funds given through the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
*** Denotes donor advised funds given through the National Christian Foundation
Michigan Office Solutions
The Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation
Saint Alphonsus Church
The Source
Townsquare Media
Michael and Michelle Van Dyke
Varnum LLP
W A Lettinga Investment
THANKS
Innovator Club: Gifts of $5,000–$9,999
James and Joy Albers
Aquinas College
David A. Brandon Foundation
Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation
Engineered Comfort Systems, Inc.
Holland Special Delivery
Initech Global, LLC
John and Judy Spoelhof
John and Judy Spoelhof Foundation
The Estate of Ruth Kilmer
Donald Lawless and Sherri Jones
Meijer, Inc.
Metro Health Hospital
Metro Health Sports Medicine
Jack H. Miller
Dr. Richard and Pam Pappas
Public Affairs Associates, Inc.
Ronald Rodorigo
Skytron
The Steve Van Andel Foundation
Town & Country Group, Inc.
Van Andel Institute
Van Dyken Mechanical, Inc.
Dave Veneklase
Russel and Mary Warner
“To say I was extremely anxious about returning to school after
more than 24 years is truly an understatement. I am a wife and
a mother and I work a full-time job. Since attending Davenport
University, I have received amazing encouragement and support.
I am completing my Associate in Business Administration. I have
been on the Dean’s List since my enrollment. Without scholarship
patrons willing to support continuing education, this would not have
been possible. Your contribution has truly played a part in helping
me reach my goals. I sincerely thank you with all of my heart.”
Patricia A. Robinson – Senator Glenn D. Steil Endowed Scholarship recipient
Ambassador Club: Gifts of $1,000–$4,999
Anonymous (2)
Advantage Benefits Group
Allied Brands
Arthur J. Gallagher & Company of Michigan, Inc.
Association of University Programs
in Health Administration
Astroturf
Auditrax, LLC
Barnes & Thornburg, LLP
Scott Bernecker
Joel and Laura Blanchard
BlueWater Technologies
Ron and Heather Boji
Kenneth and Stephanie Bovee
Fred and Beverly Braun
BrightFormat, Inc.
Brooks Family Community Fund*
Brooks Capital Management, LLC
Builder’s Iron Inc.
John and Marie Canepa
Cascade Cement Contracting, Inc.
Cascade Engineering, Inc.
CBRE
The Center for Physical Rehabilitation
Chemical Bank
Consumers Energy Foundation
Dr. Colleen Coughlin
Crestmark Equipment Finance
Susan Crkovski
Paula Cunningham
Custer, Inc.
David and Karen Custer
Dr. Karen and Jack Daley
Michael and Debra Door
Eastern Floral & Gift Shop
Dr. Scott and Susan Epstein
Rami and Rea Fawaz
Fifth Third Securities, Inc.
The Larry & Judy Fredrick Charitable Fund***
Dan and Michelle Georgevich
Gene and Phyllis Gilmore
Gilson Graphics, Inc.
Mitchell and Jane Glover
GMB Architects-Engineers
Gordon Food Service
Grand Valley State University
Donald and Nancy Hamelink
Harder & Warner Landscape Contractors, Inc.
Hastings Public Library
Hauenstein Foundation
Doyle A. Hayes, Sr.
DAVENPORT.EDU | 23
THANKS
Ambassador Club: Gifts of $1,000–$4,999, continued
Richard Holmes
Holmes & Wiseley, P.C.
Hope Network
Scott and Kimberly Huizenga
Huntington National Bank
Edward and Angela Igrisan
Interphase Office Interiors, Inc.
Earle and Kyle Irwin
Irwin Seating Company
Mark Iveson
Michael and Susan Jandernoa
Jet’s Pizza
Jeff and Rose Karsten
Kelly Scott Madison
Kent County Office of the Defender
Kent District Library - Wyoming Branch
KI Furniture
Louise and David Kidd
Mark and Michelle Kooyers
The Korff Foundation
Jack J. Korff
Arthur and Alberta Kuhn
Lacks Enterprises, Inc.
James and Clarine Lanting
Connie Lettinga and Robert Barto
Liberty Mutual Insurance
Mike LoMonaco
Timothy and Kimberley Long
Bruce and Deb Los
Peggy and Donald Luy
Donald and Kathleen Maine
MCPc
Mercy Health
Jim and Nancy Meyer
Michigan Virtual Charter Academy
Midstate Security Company, LLC
Midwest Construction Group, Inc.
Donna K. Milham
MLive Media Group
The MSJ Foundation
John and Barbara Myaard
Northern Trust
Old National Bank
Walter and Felisa O’Neill
Panopoulos Family Foundation**
Christos and Joan Panopoulos
Parkway Electric & Communications, LLC
Patterson Ice Center, LLC
Tim Pennings
Peppino’s Pizzeria & Sports Grille
Todd and Lori Pitts
Plante Moran, PLLC
David Poock
Putnam District Library
Rhoades McKee, PC
The Charles E. Schell Foundation
Wayne D. Sneath, Ph.D.
SoundOff Signal
Steelcase, Inc.
Jerome P. Subar Foundation
Mrs. Judith Subar
Robert Sullivan
Robert & Timothy Sullivan Scholarship Fund Trust
Tournament of Friendship
True North Insurance and Financial Strategies
Uccello’s Ristorante - Caledonia
Universal Forest Products Foundation
Brian VanBeveran
Roger and Clare VanderLaan
James and Mary Veldheer
Michael and Janice Volk
Vos Glass, Inc.
Shelly and Warren Westbrook
Shannon Witt
Thomas Woods
Bruce and LV Wynalda
WZZM 13
Bradley and Lacrissa Zuraw
Jeffrey and Trisha Zylstra
Grand Rapids Public Museum
Jefra Groendyk
Dr. Kenneth and Catherine K. Ho
Mike Holtvluwer
Isaacson, Miller
KSS Enterprises
Betty LaCroix
Lamont Christian School
David and Connie Lawrence
Lettinga & Associates, LLC - CPAs
Tom Lonergan and Fred Buras
Bill Mackay
Master Tech Services, LLC
Gerilyn and Jamie May
Barbara A. Mieras, Ph.D.
Julie and Andy Milanowski
Brian and Megan Miller
Matthew and Rachael Miller
Charmayne Mulligan
Kathryn Mullins
Dr. Donald and Alice Nichols
Frank Novakowski
Rich and Lisa O’Donovan
Joyce Penn
Mark and Sara Peters
Daniel and Sara Peterson
Dr. Dale and Terry Prondzinski
Mandee Rick
The Right Place, Inc.
Dr. Linda Rinker and Dr. Harry Rinker
Gwendolyn Seay
Linda and Arlyn Sievert
Amy Stahley
Jacqueline D. Taylor, Ph.D.
Technical Academy Group, LLC
Todd Wenzel Buick GMC
Albert Torres
Jan Vander Weide, C.P.A.
Aurelio Velasquez
Marjolijn van der Velde
Ann and Andy Vidro
Alan and Carolynn Wright
Builder Club: Gifts of $500–$999
A-1 Asphalt, Inc.
Leah and Ryan Aalderink
Drs. Kathy and Edward Aboufadel
Phillip Allen
Michael Allie
Barry County Commission on Aging
Thaddeus and Irene Bembenista
Broadmoor Motor Group, LLC
Thomas and Lorna Brown
Butterball Farms, Incorporated
Jerry and Suzanne Callahan
Clean Resources
Lynda and Sam Cribari
Debora Crudele
Michele and Roberto Davis-Jara
Dr. Lonnie G. Decker
Delton District Library
DK Security
Ferris and Patricia Finerty
David and Judith Frey
Dennis and Patricia Gillett
THANKS
Sustainer Club: Gifts of $100–$499
Anonymous (15)
Terry and Geraldine Abel
Adam Altman
Jonathan and Leslie Anderson
B & B Maintenance Services, Inc.
Jeffry and Lori Babbitt
Robert and Kay Babcock
Lori Baker and David Koski
Jean M. Balcer
Paul Beasley
Janice and Lachlan Beatson
Duane and JoAnn Bedard
Ronald and Mary Berg
Rick Berkey
Roger and Jill Betten, Sr.
John and Kathleen Bissell
Randolph C. Black
Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker
Mark and Wynelle Brayman
Kevin and Elaine Brazell
Frank and Patricia Brechbiel
Debra Brondsema
Bryan and Debra Brower
George and Willa Brown
Roger and Esther Brown
Thomas and Carna Brown
Robert J. Bruggema
Donna Burns
Bushwood Golf Course
Theresa Cardon-Weiss
Michael and Lynne Carey
The Carl E. & Glenda R. Welmers Charitable Fund***
Bradley and Janelle Carnduff
Tim and Deborah Chenoweth
Jessica Cheriez
Rudolfo and Judith Cifolelli
Robert and Mary Clarkson
Daryl Cliff and Diane Manko-Cliff
Jodi Colby
Lyle Converse
Scott Cook
Barbara A. Craft, J.D. and Dr. John Otterbacher
Anne Cramer
Linda G. Crosby
James Czerew
Erik Dane
Daniel and Kathleen Davis
Paul Davis
Jeniece Dawkins
Angeline De Santis
Guy and Sheryl Dean
David and Jane DeBoer
Anna M. DeLisle
Betty Deloach
Denise Derr
Pat DeVoy
Tracy Dill
Michael Dokter
Maureen Downer
Jessica Dunn
Keri Dutkiewicz
Mark and Cynthia Eilander
Embassy Suites - Livonia
Larry Engelsman
Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company of Michigan
James and Ginny Farmer
Robert Ferrans
Kathleen Finkler
Christine Fisher
Warren and Martha Gant
George’s Senate Restaurants
David Gillespie
Nick and Liz Glaser
Joann Gray
Hosea Greer
Mr. Donald L. Gusfa
Craig Haan
Judy Haase
John and Barbara Habicht
Rachel Hahn
William and Vicki Hall
Kelly Hanke
Gerald and Lorraine Hardebeck
Arthur and Betsy Hasse
James and Jayne Hayden
Meredith Healy†
Alan and Gail Hering
Marylee van den Heuvel
Holly M. Hill
Brian and Kelly Hobbs
Jeff and Becky Hoeks
Marie Hojeij
Roger and Roberta Horton
Stanley Hreneczko
Christopher Hughes
Allen and Barbara Huston
Ronald P. Igrisan
Josh and PoWah Isaak
Gary and Terry Isham
John M. Jaksa
Amanda and Jon Jakubowski
Frank Jasper-Stump
Kirk Jewell
Aphrodite Jones
Shari Jones
Lisa Kagay
Margaret Kaiser
Andrew and Heather Kalafut
Robin Lee Kauffman
David and Beth Keim
Harris and Beth Kiekover
Betty J. Kingma
Ronald Kinsman
Debra Kiss and Randy Smolenski
Judy Knapp
Heather Knechtel
Bonnie and Ronald Kopp
Jennifer Krueger
Rick and Deborah LaMeyer
Joseph Lamontagne
David and Kirsten Larson
Brenda F. Lauer
Linda LeSage
Melissa S. Lettinga
Livonia Chamber of Commerce
Sharon E. Long
Lynette Love
Paul and Lisa Lowden
Stuart and Shelley Lowe
Amy Lucas
Jean M. Luoma, M.A.T.
Laura and Joe Macka
Colleen and Mark Maire
Richard and Beth Martin
Christopher L. Marx
Janet Maschke
David and DuAnne Masselink
Timothy McCabe
Joseph and Linda McCormick
Jerry McKay
Jesse Medina
Dr. James and Barbara Mendola
Daniel and Fawn Meyerholt
Michigan NonProfit Association
Scott Miller
Kathy Miner
Gary Mitchell
William and Marijane Molag
Jerrid Mooney
Fredrick Morley
Matthew and Wendy Morrow
Kenneth and Phyllis Neitzel
Mary and Rick Nelsen
Kristy Nelson
Lynn Nelson
Woldemar and Joann Nikkel
Wendy Norton and Timothy Westdorp
Brad Nyhoff
Janice and Jack O’Donnell
DAVENPORT.EDU | 25
THANKS
Sustainer Club: Gifts of $100–$499, continued
Susan Offenbecker
Marilyn Oliver
Amy Ostrow
Duane and Betty Overbeek
Judith and Steven Penning
Kenneth and Ramona Phillips
Patricia Phillips
Ms. Susan Porrett
Jessica Powers
Eric R. Pung
Rita and Edward Rahe
Shawn Raymond
Thomas Reeder
Resendes Design Group, LLC
Jamie Rhine
Frank and Sue Roder
James and Leanna Rollins
Dianna Rose
Gabriel and Melissa Rousseau
Patricia and David Sabol
Shubhada Sagdeo
Thomas and Michelle Sall
McCall Salmon
Jacquolyn Sawyer
Deborah A. Schoenwether
Andrea Shacks
Richard and Mary Shirey
Robert Shubitowski
Harold and Monica Skinner
Michael and Betsy Sleva
Mark and Debra Smith
Soil and Materials Engineers, Inc.
Linda Sorensen
Linda Spang
Terrence M. Start
Scott Stevens
Mary Sullivan
Daniel Swartzinski
Bruce and Karla Ter Haar
Ross and Cindy Thompson
Craig Timmerman
Nancy Titmus
Trans Tech Automotive Group, LLC
Kevin and Erin Tryon
David and Danielle Tyler
Richard S. and Suzanne Unger
US Bank
Dale and Diane VanAllsburg
Gordon and Judith VanAmburg
John and Patricia VanderHeide
Gerald and Diane VanderLugt
Ron and Katherine VanDragt
Randall and Laurie VanHouten
James and Juliet Veneziano
Venture Creations, LLC
Valerie A. Villalta
Peter and Natalie Villemure
James A. Von Ins, C.P.A.
Mark A. Vroman
Dr. Elmer H. Vruggink
Kelvin Wabeke
Alan L. Walczak
Floyd Walton, Jr.
Kelly and Bob Wandel
Scott Wang
Ruth Washburn
Tyrus and Kathy Wessell, Jr.
West Michigan Beverage
Steve and Susan Wiersum
Susan L. Wilder
Amy and Robert Wilkins
Ben and Bridget Williams
Michael Williams
Jennifer Phillips Wilson
Lee and Marty Witt
Arthur Wright
Maria Ziegler
Sabrina Zoppa
David Barnes
Geraldine Barnes
Lesha Barnes
John and Gwendolyn Bartels
John and Arlene Battjes
Kenneth and Christine Beaujean
Beverly and James Beckem
Kenneth and Nancy Bekkering
Jeanine L. Bellinger
Anne Benson
Ronald and Suzanne Berg
Denny and Jaye Lynn Bergers
Douglas Bergman
Thomas L. Bergy, C.P.A.
Ralph and Dianne Berndtson
Jerome and Doreen Bernier
Better World Books
Karen and John Beukema
Patti M. Bierlein
Joseph D. Bishop
Dennis and Belva Bobeldyk
Dawn M. Bower
Mrs. Tina Branch-Dawson
Sara Brondsema
Scott A. Brouwer
Marsha F. Brubaker
Eleanor Bryant
Harold W. Bryant, III
Ronald and Suzanne Burrows
Kelvin and Kimberly Busscher
Lita Byers
Bartell H. Bylsma
Lenora Bynum
Orletta Caldwell
Cardinal Health Foundation Inc.
Becky Chamberlin
Steven and Sandra Champion
William and Linda Chase
Louise Chronowski
Richard and Carolyn Chudik
David and Amy Clark
Cynthia Clarke
Kenneth and Dorothy Clemens
Rachel and Mark Clover
Initiator Club: Gifts of $1–$99
Jone K. Aardema
Dennis D. Abraham
Edward Alberts
Leo and Denise Alberts
Lester and Patricia Albright
Joanne Alford
Kimberley Alleman
William and Stacey Aman
Deborah and James Anderson
Martha Anderson
Robert and Christine Anderson
Charles and Sharon Andrews
Amy and Martin Angell
David and Corine Anthony
Lonn and Patricia Ashbrook
Jill and James Avery
B52 Express Oil Change & Car Wash
Dorothy H. Badynee
Patrick and Karina Bak
Shevella Banks
Crystal Bankston
Cheryl Barbera
THANKS
Initiator Club: Gifts of $1–$99, continued
Rachel D. Connell
Byron and Jacquelyn Converse
Mark and Mary Ann Corey
Steven and Perpetua Crawford
Jeffery and Trudy Crowley
William and Ann Cusack
Donald and Barbara Czurak
Steven and Cynthia Damstra
Randall H. Darnell
Jessica L Dawson-Will and Dustin E. Will
Joseph and Loretta De Santis
Steven and Lori DeForest
Michael and Melinda DeJong
Ronald and Katherine DeKiep
Ann DeLeeuw Decker
Gregory and Janice Despres
Robert L. Diamond
Dr. Betsy L. Diegel
Jacob and Harriet Diehm
Roy and Kim Dingman
Nancy S. Doane
Scott and Doni Driemeier-Showers
Eileen Edwards
Electric Sales & Creative Marketing, LLC
Alberic and Cindy Emery
Dawn M. England
Monna Essenberg
Phillip M. Fascetti and Marcie Muir
Harold and Dawn Fischer
Flint Alumni Council
Soraida Flores
Kenneth Fortier
Gregory Foster
Ronald and Susan Foster
Maria Franco
Carl and Barbara Franken
Deborah Fraser
Lois Frazier
Stacy Frazier Jones and John Jones
David and Marni Fredrickson
Edward and Emma Freeland
Ronald and Jane French
Laura Frey
James and Linda Fridsma
Bradley and Joan Fry
Lenardo Gambril
Debra Gannon
Aura Gardner
Arthur and Cheryl Garner
Kathleen Garrett
James and M. Garvelink
Gregg and Debra Garver
Pamela Garza
Laurel J. George
Tim and Lori Gifford
Deann Giles
Terika Gillam
Kathleen S. Glovick
Garret Goosen
Annette J. Gootjes
Raymond A. Gornowich
Rodney Gouine
Stanley A. Gracki
Michael and Therese Graham
Thomas and Linda Greenfield
C. Robert Gudbrandson
John E. Gurney
Mackenzie D. Hacker
Beverly H. Haglund
Marvin and Delores Haight
Catherine B. Haney
W. Larry Hanlin
Erik and Boni Hansen
Marilyn J. Hartley-Kik
Daryl L. Hassevoort
Chad and Kimberly Hathcock
Scott A. Hattan
Cheryl E. Haverdink
G. Thomas and Dierdra Hazen
Paul Hebert
Mark and Terri Heeren
Darlene Herndon
David Hewson
Allen and Karen Hibbler
Don Hill
Michelle and Jeffrey Hill
Kipp and Kathy Hofmeyer
Mr. Michael E. Hohf
James and Ruth Holkeboer
Calvin J. Hoogstra
Sara Hop
Joy L. Horning
Raymond Horrocks
James and Cynthia Housel
Terrelene A. Hovis
Kenneth Howe
Scot and Carol Hubbard
Thomas and Amber Hunt
Beverly J. Inderbitzen
Bernard Jackson and Sharon Spencer-Jackson
Richard Jensen
Raymond and Sena Jingles
Clara Johnson
David and Susan Johnson
Lisa Johnson
Warren and Elizabeth Johnson
Karen R. Jones
Robert J. Julien
Eugene and Shirley Kallio
Timothy L. Kalota
C. Louise King
Michael and Patricia King
Daryl and Dana Kingrey
Kelley Kipfmiller
Darrell and Cheryl Kirby
Daniel J. Klanseck
Michael Klosowski
Mr. and Mrs. Doug Knapp
Jay and Evelyn Koets
Delphine A. Kolacki
Gary and Cheryl Korman
John and Lynne Kotarski
James and Eleita Kotke
Nicholas Kraska
Mark Lang
Clayton Laturneau
Carlos and Kathleen Ledezma
Janeen C. Lemke
Mark and Marcella Lewis
Marvin I. Libby
Andrew and Alice Limber
David and Carolyn Lind
Valerie A. Lockridge
James and Margaret Lothschutz
Christi Lower
Tonia Lowery
Henry and Geraldine Lucas
John J. Lucas
Shari A. Ludwa
Jason and Jennifer Madden
Joyce L. Mannor
Albert and Cynthia Mansen
Charles and Michelle Mason
Holly Matewicz
Cynthia Matson
Catherine McAuliffe
Brook McDougall
James and Cynthia McGrath
Michael McMahon
Brandi Melkild
Leo and Janet Miller
Douglas and Kathleen Ming
Mary Minjeur
Gregory and Wilma Mitchell
Keitha T. Mitchell
Sarah A. Mitchell
Susan Mitchell
Samantha Mol
Timothy and Suzanne Monck
DAVENPORT.EDU | 27
THANKS
Initiator Club: Gifts of $1–$99, continued
Kyle Moore
Regina M. Moore
Stephanie Moss
Bonnie Mroczek
Alice Mulkey
Michael J. Munson
Thomas and Kristi Nessner
Net Plus Connections
Roxanne Newhouse
Michael and Goldie Nicholas
Roxann M. Nichols
Jack and Paula Nienhuis
Wesley and Mary Norden
Herbert and Carol Norris
William and Nancy Norris
Meghan Olivier
James Outland
Randall and Kari Patton
Louise Pawlowski
Marcia G. Pell
Dan and Rebecca Pennington
Nolan Peters
Eric Peterson
Bill and Barb Peuler
The Pfizer Foundation
Jan Phinisee
Patrick and Deidre Piechocki
Amy Pierce
Angela Plainte
David and Shelley Plambeck
PNC Bank
Tim and Vickie Poel
Audrey Poole
Jacquelyn Porter
Gregory and Lynn Powers
Robert and Rosalie Pulaski
Janice Putt
Quantum Leap Communications, Inc.
Mr. Frank D. Radeck, Jr.
Lisa Rader-Gulch
Gary and Donna Ranger
David and Carol Reames
Terry and Laura Reese
Dirk and Valerie Richardson
Michael and Deanne Richter
Tara L. Rietberg
Richard and Barbara Rinella
Kristin and Edward Ritsema
Rockford Components
Larry and Mary Roelofs
Emily Rosenzweig
James Rouse
Stacy Russell
Ronald Rutherford
Barbara A. Rynbrandt
Brandy Rypma
Jimmy Sabin
Robert and E. Ellen Sadler†
Penny Sage
Willie J. Sanders
Michael Scanlon
Hal Schichtel
Michael and Marcia Schierbeek
Brian and Connie Scott
Kristil Semrau
Beverly Seymour
Richard and Denise Sherman
Aaron D. Shoemaker
Lindsey Shull
Kristie A. Slancik
Carol Duylea Sluis
Linda Smith
Peggy J. Smith
Warren T. Smith
William Snyder
Randall and Arla Spaman
Robert and Carol Spaman
Pamela Squire
Bruce and Karen Sterk
Mark Stewart
Mary D. Stewart
Brian and Laurel Stiehl
Robin M. Stoner, C.P.A.
Margaret A. Sullivan
Michael and Shelley Swope
Janice Sylvertooth
Elizabeth and Jeffrey Szubinski
Janet Taglauer
Jean Tata
Barbara L. Taylor
David and Ruth Taylor
Rick and Paula Terpsma
Marylee Thiry
LaTeasha Thomas
Kyle and Carol Thornton
Hubert and Tena Timmer
Gary and Joan Titus
Richard and Marjorie Tomczak
Nick Toyeas
Joseph Trimew
George and Ingrid Tuinstra
Anthony Valore, Jr. and Judy Valore
Jaime and Kirk Van Essen
Andrew and Ashley Van Manen
Marvin and Toots Vander Wall
Donald and Joyce VanDoeselaar
Calvin and Pamela VanDyke
Donald and Arlene VanGelderen
Laura A. VanRy
Jack and Gertrude VanStee
Randall and Gail VanVels
Rolland J. Varner
Richard and Amy Veenhoven
Cara D. Vilders
Calvin and Debra Vis
Duane and Kathy Vosburg
Tom and Mary Vryhof
Steven and Diane Vugteveen
Janice Walker
Robert and Susan Walters
Mrs. Toria B. Ward-Gilkey
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ware
Nelda R. Warren
Jack and Kathleen Washburn
Ms. Cassandra Washington
Catherine M. Wasson
Rasheedah Wazeerud-Din
Claire Webb
Wells Fargo Foundation
Ralph and Michele Westbrook
Barbara Westenberg
John White
Maryelise White
Alvin C. Whited
Phyllis K. Wier
Gladys A. Wierenga
Robert Wilkins
John Wilson
Shirley and Robert Wirth
Gary and Gail Wohlscheid
Gerald and Leslie Yon
Richard and Barbara Young
Craig and Helen Zeerip
Kathleen Zickel
THANKS
Staff Circle
Anonymous(17)
Leah and Ryan Aalderink
Drs. Kathy and Edward Aboufadel
Jean M. Balcer
Paul Beasley
Beverly and James Beckem
Thaddeus and Irene Bembenista
Ronald and Mary Berg
Ronald and Suzanne Berg
Joseph D. Bishop
Denton Bobeldyk
Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker
Frank and Patricia Brechbiel
Debra Brondsema
Roger and Esther Brown
Thomas and Carna Brown
Jerry and Suzanne Callahan
Tim and Deborah Chenoweth
Jessica Cheriez
Robert and Mary Clarkson
Jodi Colby
Dr. Colleen Coughlin
Barbara A. Craft, J.D. and Dr. John Otterbacher
Lynda and Sam Cribari
Susan Crkovski
Linda G. Crosby
Debora Crudele
Dr. Karen and Jack Daley
Erik K. Dane
Michele and Roberto Davis-Jara
David and Jane DeBoer
Dr. Lonnie G. Decker
Betty Deloach
Denise Derr
Pat DeVoy
Dr. Betsy L. Diegel
Tracy Dill
Michael Dokter
Jessica Dunn
Keri Dutkiewicz
Ferris and Patricia Finerty
Kathleen Finkler
Christine Fisher
Gregory Foster
Deborah Fraser
Stacy Frazier Jones and John Jones
Bradley and Joan Fry
Kathleen Garrett
Dan and Michelle Georgevich
David Gillespie
Nick and Liz Glaser
Hosea Greer
Rachel Hahn
Kelly Hanke
W. Larry Hanlin
James and Jayne Hayden
Holly M. Hill
Jeff and Becky Hoeks
Marie Hojeij
Raymond Horrocks
Thomas and Amber Hunt
Allen and Barbara Huston
Josh and PoWah Isaak
Mark Iveson
John M. Jaksa
Frank Jasper-Stump
Clara Johnson
Aphrodite Jones
Shari Jones
Lisa Kagay
Jeff and Rose Karsten
Robin Lee Kauffman
Louise and David Kidd
Michael and Patricia King
Ronald Kinsman
Debra Kiss and Randy Smolenski
Judy Knapp
Heather Knechtel
Jennifer Krueger
Joseph Lamontagne
Brenda F. Lauer
Tom Lonergan and Fred Buras
Paul and Lisa Lowden
Amy Lucas
Shari A. Ludwa
Jean M. Luoma, M.A.T.
Laura and Joe Macka
Jason and Jennifer Madden
Daryl Cliff and Diane Manko-Cliff
Janet Maschke
Timothy McCabe
Jesse Medina
Brandi Melkild
Donna K. Milham
Matthew and Rachael Miller
Scott Miller
Kathy Miner
Gary Mitchell
Keitha T. Mitchell
Sarah A Mitchell
Susan Mitchell
Fredrick Morley
Douglas and Karen Mosier
Charmayne Mulligan
Frank Novakowski
Rich and Lisa O’Donovan
Susan Offenbecker
Meghan Olivier
Amy Ostrow
Joyce Penn
Tim Pennings
Patricia Phillips
Jan Phinisee
Todd and Lori Pitts
David Poock
Susan Porrett
Jessica Powers
Dr. Dale and Terry Prondzinski
Eric R. Pung
Janice Putt
Shawn Raymond
Thomas Reeder
Jamie Rhine
Dr. Linda Rinker and Dr. Harry Rinker
Frank and Sue Roder
James and Leanna Rollins
Gabriel and Melissa Rousseau
Shubhada Sagdeo
Thomas and Michelle Sall
Deborah A. Schoenwether
Gwendolyn Seay
Andrea Shacks
Robert Shubitowski
Lindsey Shull
Linda and Arlyn Sievert
Mark and Debby Smith
Wayne D. Sneath, Ph.D.
William Snyder
Linda Sorensen
Linda Spang
Amy Stahley
Scott Stevens
Mark Stewart
Daniel Swartzinski
Janice Sylvertooth
David and Ruth Taylor
Marylee Thiry
Hubert and Tena Timmer
DAVENPORT.EDU | 29
THANKS
Staff Circle, continued
Michael and Janice Volk
Kelly and Bob Wandel
Scott Wang
Maryelise White
Ben and Bridget Williams
John Wilson
Lee and Marty Witt
Nancy Titmus
Marylee van den Heuvel
Marjolijn van der Velde
Aurelio Velasquez
Dave Veneklase
James and Juliet Veneziano
Shannon Witt
Thomas Woods
Alan and Carolynn Wright
Arthur Wright
Maria Ziegler
Sabrina Zoppa
“The scholarships I received changed my life. I would not have
been able to go to school to become a nurse without the support
of DU donors. Davenport is setting me up for success.”
– Cassandra Hester – Droski, Lindsay & Meyers Endowed Scholarship and
Martin Morales Minority Endowed Scholarship recipient
The Davenport University Legacy Society
Members of this society are recognized for their generous support of the university through deferred or estate gifts. These donors are contributing
substantially toward Davenport’s long-term growth and its vitality for years to come. The Legacy Society allows the university to thank donors
today for the gifts of tomorrow, which will benefit our students long into the future. For further information about how you can be part of the
Legacy Society, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 616-233-3413.
Anonymous (2)
William H. Anderson
Sue E. Andrews
Anne M. Benson
Nancy S. Boese
Fred G. Braun
Janell M. Brickley
Gail I. Brink
Jack E. Brothers†
Ellen W. Brown
Thomas H. Brown, Ph.D.
Sharon S. Burgis
Sharon M. Buursma
Joe Buzzitta
Linda L. Byington
Gerald D. Callahan, Ph.D.
Matthew C. Cawood, Ph.D.
Robert S. Chapla
Molly A. Charles
John D. Cichy, Ph.D.
Cynthia E. Claus
Peter C. Cook†
James DeBoer, Jr.†and Joy Deboer
Kenneth H. DeHaan†
James R. Doane
Thomas E. Dulude†
Ronald E. Falk
Larry D. Fredricks
Carol E. Greene†
Norma A Hansen
Doyle A. Hayes, Sr.
Barbara J. Huston
William W. Idema†
Suzanne M. Kenyon
Ruth Kilmer†
Keith A. Klingenberg
David Ladd
Wilbur A. Lettinga
Sharon Lettinga
Jean M. Luoma
James E. McCarty
Peter H. Moll
Diane Mulder
Michael J. Munson
John H. Myaard
Kevin B. O’Halla†
Joan A. Peterson
Timothy J. Pixley
Debra A. Ralya
E. Ellen Sadler†
Peter Secchia
David Sellars
Bobby J. Springer
Glenn D. Steil†
Stephanie L. Hehl Stotenbur
Edwin W. Thauer
Lenora Triggs
Janice K. Twork
Fred E. Vandenberg†
Lynne A. Vander Wall
Marvin L. Vander Wall
Dave Veneklase
John D. Waite
Kathleen Warners
Steven J. Wessell
E. Allen Wetherell
Bruce A. Wynalda
Harold F. Zahm†
Michele Zuidema
THANKS
Davenport University Foundation Scholarships and Program Funds
The Davenport University Foundation is tremendously grateful to the individuals, families and organizations who support annual and endowed
scholarships at Davenport. 100% of all contributions designated for scholarship support reach DU students, assisting them as they work toward
completing their education and attaining a degree. The scholarships listed here were available to award for the 2014–15 academic year.
For further information about how you can establish a scholarship or program fund in your name and help deserving students earn an
education, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 616-233-3413.
Annual Scholarships
Hearst Foundations Nursing Scholars
Accounting Annual Scholarship
Alumni Association General Scholarship
Amical Foundation/Donald J. Phillips Annual Scholarship
Battle Creek Employees Annual Scholarship
Bob Clarkson Annual Scholarship
Cindy Thompson Saginaw Medical Assistant
Annual Scholarship
Dave Veneklase and Family Annual Scholarship
Davenport University Online Annual Scholarship
Donald G. and Peggy S. Luy Annual Scholarship
Donald W. Maine College of Business Annual Scholarship
Farmers Insurance Annual Scholarship
Flint Campus Annual Scholarship
Foster G. McGaw Annual Scholarship
Holland Campus Annual Scholarship
Honors Accounting Annual Scholarship
Kalamazoo Campus Annual Scholarship
Kenneth Krug Memorial Scholarship
for the College of Technology
Lansing Campus Annual Scholarship
LAUP Annual Scholarship
Linda Haberaecker Memorial Scholarship
for Women in Technology
Livonia Campus Annual Scholarship
Lynda and Sam Cribari Annual Scholarship
Mandee Rick Annual Scholarship
Midland Campus Annual Scholarship
Saginaw Campus Annual Scholarship
Student Veterans of America Annual Scholarship
Study Abroad Annual Scholarship
Tim and Bob Sullivan Annual Scholarship
Tournament of Friendship Annual Scholarship
Traverse City Campus Annual Scholarship
Warren Campus Annual Scholarship
Yvette Russell Annual Scholarship
Carol J. Adams Endowed Scholarship
Carroll & Frances Streeter Endowed Scholarship
Casey J. Cnossen, Jr. Endowed Scholarship
Charles “Andy” Anderson Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Charles and Stella Royce Endowed Scholarship
Charles F. and Helen Harrison Endowed Scholarship
Chemical Bank Endowed Scholarship
Chris and Joan Panopoulos Endowed Scholarship
Colleen Wolfe Endowed Scholarship
College of Health Professions Endowed Scholarship
Comerica Bank Endowed Scholarship
Community Choice Credit Union Endowed Scholarship
Custer Workplace Interiors Scholarship
Daniel and Michelle Georgevich Endowed Scholarship
Daoud Foundation Endowed Scholarship
Davenport University Employees Endowed Scholarship
Davenport University Memorial Scholarship
David and Judy Frey Endowed Scholarship
David J. Steenstra, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship
Dearborn Agency (R. Putnam & K. Cude)
Endowed Scholarship
Dearborn Exchange Club Endowed Scholarship
Detroit College of Business Alumni Scholarship
Donald and Nancy Hamelink Endowed Scholarship
Door Family Accounting Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Alberta Muirhead Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Charles and Sydell Pappas Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Donald and Alice Nichols Endowed Scholarship
Dr. James & Barbara Mendola Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Robert and Christine Funaro Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Robert W. Sneden Endowed Scholarship
Dr. Ronald Bartson Memorial Scholarship
Dr. Woldemar H. Nikkel Endowed Scholarship
Droski, Lindsay & Meyers Endowed Scholarship
DU Alumni Association Panther Ambassador
Scholarship Award
Dykhouse Construction Endowed Scholarship
E. Scott Derr Memorial Scholarship
Ed and Mako Bauer Endowed Scholarship
Edna Losgar and Marilyn Losgar Smith
Memorial Scholarship
Edward and Sandra Hanenburg Endowed Scholarship
Eleanor Spidell Endowed Scholarship
Elmer Vruggink, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship
Elton Carl and Margaret E. Twork (Underwood)
Endowed Scholarship
Emerson G. McCarty East Endowed Scholarship
Emerson G. McCarty West Memorial Scholarship
Engineered Comfort Systems, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
Entrepreneurial Endowed Scholarship
Fairlane Car Wash Endowed Scholarship
Fifth Third Bank Endowed Scholarship
Flechsig Family Endowed Scholarship
Foundation Board Endowed Scholarship
Endowed Scholarships
Alan G. Hering Endowed Scholarship
Alfred and Eleanor Dinsmore
Endowed Nursing Scholarship
Alpha Iota of Grand Rapids Endowed Scholarship
Alticor Inc. Endowed Scholarship
Alumni Legacy Endowed Scholarship
Amy Barnaby Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Angeline Keller Endowed Scholarship
Anna B. McPherson, RN Endowed Scholarship
Antoinette (Toni) Wykstra Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Art and Betsy Hasse Endowed Scholarship
Aubrey J. Terbrack Endowed Scholarship
Bank of America Endowed Scholarship
Barbara A. Mieras, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship
Batts Foundation Endowed Scholarship
BDO USA, LLP Endowed Scholarship
Bernard & Jean VanderVeen Endowed Scholarship
Bernice G. Rudzinski Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Beta Endowed Scholarship
Betty Igrisan Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Blaise Newman Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland Endowed Scholarship
Brooks Beverage Management Endowed Scholarship
Bruce & Lavina Wynalda Endowed Scholarship
Bruce W. Gilmore Memorial Endowed Scholarship
C. Dexter & Sandra Rohm Endowed Scholarship
Canteen Services, Inc. Scholarship
DAVENPORT.EDU | 31
THANKS
“My motivation for continuing my college career is, without a doubt,
people like you who are supporting me. There is nothing I can say to
truly thank you enough for your generous donation. You have inspired
me to work harder, knowing that there is someone other than myself
who is counting on me to do well. Thank you once again for your
support that reminds me that my success in college matters.”
–Courtney Page – William and Beatrice Idema Endowed Scholarship recipient
Endowed Scholarships, continued
Frank Breukink Memorial Scholarship
Fred E. and Gretchen Vandenberg Endowed Scholarship
GE Aviation Endowed Scholarship
Geerlings Development/Scott Geerlings
Endowed Scholarship
George L. Young Memorial Scholarship
Gerrit and June Kamphouse Endowed Scholarship
GM Lansing Women’s Club Endowed Scholarship
Godwin Hardware & Plumbing Endowed Scholarship
Gordon H. Poll Memorial Scholarship
Grand Rapids Press Minority Endowed Scholarship
GunnLevine Architects Endowed Scholarship
H.B. Shaine & Company, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
H.J. Heinz Company Endowed Scholarship
H.S. Die & Engineering Endowed Scholarship
Helen Frays Memorial Scholarship
Helen L. and Dallas L. Darling Endowed Scholarship
Henry and Carolyn Bouma Endowed Scholarship
Herman and Jennie VanderLaan Memorial Scholarship
Herman Miller Inc. Endowed Scholarship
Howard Miller Company Endowed Scholarship
Hugh and Melbarose Wichert Endowed Scholarship
Huntington National Bank Endowed Scholarship
Hy and Greta Berkowitz Memorial Scholarship
Interphase Office Systems Endowed Scholarship
Irving and Birdella White Endowed Scholarship
Islamic Institute Expression of Gratitude
Endowed Scholarship
Jack E. Brothers Endowed Scholarhip
Jacqueline D. Taylor Endowed Scholarship
James A. Farmer, Sr. Endowed Scholarship
James and Clarine Lanting Calvin Christian Schools
Endowed Scholarship
James N. DeBoer, Jr. (Metropolitan Hospital)
Endowed Scholarship
James R. and Clarine L. Lanting Endowed Scholarship
Jane Wetherell Memorial Scholarship
Janice K. Stauffer Memorial Scholarship
Jason Bruso Memorial Scholarship
Jean E. Lindsey Memorial Scholarship
Jean F. Kinsman Memorial Scholarship
Jenny Engle Endowed Nursing Scholarship
Jerry and Judy Subar Endowed Scholarship
Jerry and Suzanne Callahan Endowed Scholarship
Jim and Ginger Jurries Endowed Scholarship
John A. and Elinore Mulder Endowed Scholarship
John and Judy Spoelhof Endowed Scholarship
John and Mildred Burt Endowed Scholarship
John David Endowed Scholarship
John Dishaw Memorial Scholarship
John H. Myaard Endowed Scholarship
John P. Keller Endowed Scholarship
John S. Vander Heide, III Memorial Scholarship
Johnson Controls Endowed Scholarship
Josephine M. and John Oonk Jr.
Memorial Scholarship
Judith A. Lettinga Memorial Scholarship
Kalamazoo Employees Endowed Scholarship
Kane Group, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
Kane Group, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
(Grand Rapids Area)
Kathryn and Harold Zahm Memorial Scholarship
Kathryn L. Wiese Endowed Scholarship
Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg Endowed Scholarship
Kenneth and Carole Yerrick Endowed Scholarship
Kenneth H. & Carlene R. DeHaan Scholarship
Kevin L. Rotman Memorial Scholarship
Knape and Vogt Manufacturing Co.
Endowed Scholarship
Kristin M. Ten Harmsel Anderson Memorial Scholarship
Larry D. and Judith C. Fredricks Endowed Scholarship
Les Lindsay Endowed Scholarship
Linda L. Benedict Sales & Marketing Scholarship
Linda R. Lindsay Byington Endowed Scholarship
Lisa Trombley Endowed Scholarship
Lou Holtz Foundation Endowed Athletic Scholarship
Louis V. and Catherine Buzzitta Endowed Scholarship
Lumbermen’s Incorporated Endowed Scholarship
M.E. Davenport Family Endowed Scholarship
Maine Family Memorial Scholarship
Marble and Tile (Dr. William Piersante)
Endowed Scholarship
Martin Morales Minority Endowed Scholarship
Marvin “Red” Brummel Memorial Scholarship
Mary Kay Lettinga Memorial Scholarship
Mary Walsh Kole Memorial Scholarship
Mary Warner Endowed Scholarship
Matthew Brian Feko Memorial Scholarship
Max and Micki Young Endowed Scholarship
McDonald Plumbing Endowed Scholarship
Meijer, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
MI Food and Beverage Assoc. (Deeb)
Endowed Scholarship
Michael and Connie Lettinga Endowed Scholarship
Michael Berry Endowed Scholarship
Michael D. Allie Endowed Scholarship
Michael D. Davis Endowed Scholarship
Michigan Office Solutions Endowed Scholarship
Midwest Health Center (Dr. Mark Saffer)
Endowed Scholarship
Mila Crkovski Endowed Scholarship
MJK Architects Engineers Planners, Inc. Scholarship
Ned Fawaz Expression of Gratitude Endowed Scholarship
Nichole Lake Memorial Scholarship
Nilda Caceres Memorial Scholarship
P. Robert and Charlene Vanderson Endowed Scholarship
Patrick and Katherine Mullen Endowed Scholarship
Paul Ames Memorial Scholarship
Paula Brown - Warren Campus - Endowed Scholarship
Pauline Roskam Memorial Scholarship
Perrigo Company Endowed Scholarship
Peter C. and Emajean Cook Endowed Scholarship
Powell Moving and Storage, Inc. Endowed Scholarship
THANKS
Endowed Scholarships, continued
Ralph, Berniece and Ralph, Jr. Damstra
Endowed Scholarship
Rhonda Goodyke-Hoorn Memorial Scholarship
Richard and Gretchen Tierney Endowed Scholarship
Robert and Ellen Sadler Endowed Scholarship
Robert and Ellie Kunkel Endowed Scholarship
Robert and Helen Jean Schmiedicke
Endowed Scholarship
Robert J. and Inez M. McBain Endowed Scholarship
Robert J. DenHerder Memorial Scholarship
Robert L. Hooker, Jr. and Michelle Harmody
Endowed Scholarship
Robert T. Orlikowski Memorial Scholarship
Robert W. and Margaret D. Sneden Endowed Scholarship
Rockford Construction Company, Inc.
Endowed Scholarship
Roger and Clare VanderLaan East Endowed Scholarship
Roger and Clare VanderLaan Endowed Scholarship
for the Lettinga Campus
Roger and Clare VanderLaan West Endowed Scholarship
Roger E. Erickson Memorial Scholarship
Roger W. O’Halla Endowed Scholarship
Ron Zoulek Memorial Scholarship
Ronald D. Brady Endowed Scholarship
Ronald E. Falk Endowed Scholarship
Rosemary Braun Memorial Scholarship
Rudolfo and Judith Cifolelli Endowed Scholarship
Russel Warner Endowed Scholarship
Sandra Scoville (Flint Campus) Endowed Scholarship
Sara Lee Endowed Scholarship
Senator Glenn D. Steil Memorial Endowed Scholarship
Sharon Lettinga Endowed Scholarship
Southeast Michigan Alumni Endowed Scholarship
SpartanNash Endowed Scholarship
Stephen A. and Ruth Stream Endowed Scholarship
Thomas A. Carey Endowed Scholarship
Thomas Deem Endowed Scholarship
Thomas F. Dulude Memorial Scholarship
Thomas Fisher Reed Memorial Scholarship
Thomas H. Brown, Ph.D. Endowed Scholarship
Gifts In Honor
Gifts In Memory
Matthew Iveson
Donald W. Maine
Joshua Vandegriff
Michael VerMerris
Jeff Gustinis
Betty Igrisan
Dan Litson
Arstric and Ben Oliver
Skyler Snyder-Pitts
Janice K. Stauffer
Tim and Diane Mulder Endowed Scholarship
TrueNorth Companies Endowed Scholarship
Tyrus R. Wessell Endowed Scholarship
Universal Forest Products Endowed Scholarship
Van Dyken Mechanical Endowed Scholarship
Vander Wall Family Memorial Scholarship
Varnum Endowed Scholarship
Voetberg Endowed Scholarship for
Students with Disabilities
Volk Family Endowed Scholarship
West Side Beer Distributing Endowed Scholarship
Wilbur A. Lettinga Endowed Scholarship
William and Beatrice Idema Endowed Scholarship
William and Rochelle Lettinga Endowed Scholarship
William R. Heible Memorial Scholarship
William R. Kingma Memorial Scholarship
Wilma D. Brudy Memorial Scholarship
Gifts In Kind
Aquinas College
Area Community Service Employment &
Training Council
Barry Community Foundation
Barry County Commission on Aging
BlueWater Technologies
BrightFormat, Inc.
BZP Pro
Cumulus Media
DADDS Magic Bus, Inc.
Delton District Library
Eastern Floral & Gift Shop
Gilson Graphics, Inc.
Hastings Public Library
Hope Network
Kent District Library - Wyoming Branch
KI Furniture
Lamont Christian School
Maple Hill Golf Course, Inc.
Meijer, Inc.
Microsoft
MLive Media Group
Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt
Putnam District Library
Saint Alphonsus Church
The Source
Townsquare Media
Uccello’s Ristorante - Caledonia
DAVENPORT.EDU | 33
THANKS
Panther Athletic Fund Club
The Panther Athletic Fund is dedicated to providing financial support for intercollegiate athletics at Davenport University and helping the
Panther student athletes, coaches and athletic staff achieve success on and off the field. For more information, visit davenport.edu/paf.
Banner Advertisers
B52 Express Oil Change & Car Wash
Berger Chevrolet
Big Apple Bagels
The Center for Physical Rehabilitation
Hi-Tec Building Services
Jet’s Pizza
Jostens
Metro Health Sports Medicine
Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company
Parkway Electric & Communications, LLC
Panther Athletic Fund Donors
7-Eleven
Orison and Addie Abel
Absolute Advertising
Albert and Vivian Albanese
David and Melissa Allen
AMG Business Centers
Edward Anderson
Lindsay Andrade
Phillip and Victoria Annese
Glenn and Sylvia Baird
Jovita Baker
Todd and Lisa Baker
Susan Baranski
Gerald Bargowski
Bruce and Eloise Baxter
Matthew S. and Shari Berger
Robert and Linda Beukema
Robert Blovsky
Denton Bobeldyk
Robert Boerema
Edward and Arlene Boss
Scott Boss
Shawn and Kristine Bowen
Mary K. Boyd
John Brandt
Tina Brandt
Alan and Dawn Brinningstaull
Ashley and Joshua Burgess
Carol Butzer
Marsha Butzer
Celebration Cinema
Raymond Troth and Sharon K. Chambers
Peter and Nanvy Chargo
Rosemary Cheslock
Frank and Frances Ciaramitaro
James and Tina Cisler
Lori and Doug Clancy
Michael Clay
Clean Resources
Troy and Louann Click
Virginia Click
Mr. and Mrs. Dave O. Clouse
J.M. Clouse
Paul and Amy Clouse
David and Laura Coletta
Charles and Dawn Collard
Dannie and Robin Collins
Sue and Tom Cowen
Victoria Creechan
CRS Sales Enterprises, LLC
Lynnette and Daniel Cunningham
Kathleen Dattulo
Curtis Davis
Debeau Construction
James and Penny Debeau
Michael and Mary Debeau
Barbara Deckinga
Frederic and Sary Denise
Karlyn Deveau
Norman DeVries
Steven DeVries
Miranda Doan
Kirk and Barb Doane
Therese and Ernst Drawert
James J. Dunne
John Durkin
John and Shelanne Durkin
Rohan Eli
Rupert Eli
Janine Eloff
John and Phyllis Elzinga
Richard and Judy Epstein
Etna Supply Company
Fairlane Dental Laboratory, Inc.
Timothy Fatum
Allen and Vicki Filipski
Arlene Ann Filipski and Catherine M. Steller
Paul and Mary Filipski
Donald and Joan Foote
Phyllis Ford
Edwin and Sally Gall
Ellen Gallagher
Jane Garner
Lucille Goerbig
James and Betty Gonyo
Thomas and Christine Gooch
Goodman Dairy Farm, LLC
Danielle Greear
James and Virginia Green
Ronald Green
Timothy and Karen Green
Edward and Rhonda Grochowalski
Glen and Janet Haight
Richard and Teri Hanchon
Andrea Hartman
Ricky and Nancy Hayes
Richard M. Haynes
Constance and Robert Heintz
Robert and Kristine Heintz
Constance and Donald Hendges
Henn Film Company, LLC
Earl Hilaski
Jerry and Pamela Hoag
Howard and Linda Hoffenkamp
Gerald and Linda Hoge
Michael Hoge
Michael Holtvluwer
Kevin and Shellie Hubert
Melvin and Jule Huhn
Timothy and Susie Hulst
Catherine and Chris Huntley
Arlyn Jansen
Evan Jansen
Gregory and Lynda Jansen
Henry and Suzette Jaskie
Christine Johnson
Jerry and Denise Johnson
Kenneth S. Johnson
Charles Karas
Keb Management Services, LLC
George Kelly
Steven and Deborah Kissane
Dorthy Koblack
Francis Kolenic
Carolyn Koszegi
Katherine Kuzava
Laux Construction
Bruce Lester
Scott Livingston
Robin Logtenberg
The Lovelace Family
THANKS
“I am genuinely thankful for all the amazing DU donors and
supporters who give to the General Scholarship Fund. The
scholarships I received from DU really made a difference not only in
my education, but my life.”
–Emily Gatlin – Foundation Board Endowed Scholarship recipient
Panther Athletic Fund Donors, continued
Sharon Loveless
Joanne and Arlin Maas
James and Shari Madison
Richard and Janet Magsig
Richard Todd Magsig
Debbie Malone
Patsylee and Kate Malone
Ron Mandernach
Gary Manning
Dave and Therese Markowitz
John E. Matthew
Donald and Phyllis Maves
Joseph and Lynda Mayberry
Dale and Annlyn McKenzie
Ross and Denise McLain
Mary Jo and Rod Meade
Drs. Tim R. Meade and Jere Booth Meade
Zachary Miedema
Patricia Miller
Miller Welding Supply Company
Mills Products
Mark and Tiffany Minder
Monsanto Fund
Rhona Morris
Leah and James Morse
Shawn and Kristina Morton
Douglas and Karen Mosier
Sue Murphy
James and Dianne Nanni
Donna Nichols and Tamara Babcock
Patrick and Mercedes Nicosia
J.D. Nordstrom
John and Tonia North
Mike and Geraldine Ocsai
Daniel and Candice Oosdyke
Ottawa Kent - Sparta Insurance Agency
Thomas and Deborah Pavlak
Jeffrey and Shari Pepper
Debra Peters
Frank and Jonneal Petravicius
Leo Petronis
Jeffrey and Suzanne Pierce
George and Gail Powell
Georgia A. Powell
Precision Label, Inc.
Harry Prellwitz
Bennett Price
Mr. Joseph and Mrs. Geraldine Priebe
Jeffrey Rahrig
Thomas and Sharon Reamer
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Reister
Remax of Michigan
Mark and Lynn Rocca
Lt. Col. Dale and Helene Rodenroth
Rodenroth Motors
Gerald and Linda Romito
Kathleen and Michael Rose
Jean and Jacqueline Royale
David and Lynda Jo Rypma
Ann Sbeity
Domenico Scalzo and Antonia Nitti
Mario Scalzo
Kenneth and Shelley Schmaltz
Andrew Schneider
J. A. Schneider, Jr. and P. J. Morrison-Schneider
Mr. and Mrs. John A. Schneider
John and Lisa Schuemann
Alice Schuiling
Melissa and Steven Schuiling
Susan Schuitema
John and Dolores Schultz
Steve and Karin Schultz
Thomas and Janice Seal
Mary Ann Seymour
Victor and Lynne Shepherd
Donna A. Sinnema
Frank Sleger
Sluiter, VanGessel, Winther & Carlson, PC
Darlene E. Smith
Southgate Process Equipment, Inc.
Stephen and Lisa Spetoskey
Eric and Jodee Springer
David and Sheri Springvloed
George and Judy Springvloed
Tomalynne Srabian
Marvin Steffes
Maxine and Melvin Steffes
Jean Stewart
Lawrence and Virginia Stoffer
Renee and Jason Stuller
William and Mary Sutton
Heather and Christopher Sypien
D. Richard and Patricia Teachout
Toni Thomley
Lyndsay and Eric Truskoski
Shawn and Cassandra Tyll
Kelly and Jeff Vander Ark
Tim VanderWiere
Harry and Diane VanDyk
Tom and Judy VanSyckle
Marilyn Velten
Clark and Meribeth VerHulst
James and Carolyn Viane
Scott and Laurie Vicari
Barbara Victory
Russell and Christine Visner
John and Janet Vigna
Laurie Wellman
West End Body Shop, LLC
Dave and Susan Whiteside
Ruth Wilson
Dr. Donald Wilton
Winberg Construction, Inc.
Jerome and Gertrude Wisniewski
David and Anne Wynalda-Swink
Marcia Young
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth J. Zylstra
Wendy Zylstra
Vincent Zerillo
Josephine A. Zerrillo
DAVENPORT.EDU | 35
THANKS
Inspiring Minds, Igniting Careers, Investing in the Vision Campaign
Our sincere thanks to these early donors, who since 2012–13, have made commitments to the Inspiring Minds, Igniting Careers, Investing in the
Vision campaign. Your generosity has helped us achieve $19.7 million in gifts and pledges toward our $25 million goal in just two years. For
further information about how you can be part of this campaign, please contact the Office of Alumni & Development at 616-233-3413.
Anonymous (3)
Michael Allie
Allied Brands
Amway Corporation
Joel and Laura Blanchard
Kenneth and Stephanie Bovee
Debra Brondsema
Kimberly A. Bruyn
Butterball Farms, Incorporated
Bradley and Janelle Carnduff
Consumers Energy Foundation
Creative Dining Services, Inc.
Paula Cunningham
Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation
David A. Brandon Foundation
David and Carol Van Andel Foundation
Danielle DeLonge
Department of Defense National Security Administration
The Dick and Betsy DeVos Family Foundation
Michael and Debra Door
Engineered Comfort Systems, Inc.
The Estate of Richard Faber
Farmers Insurance Group
Rami and Rea Fawaz
Fifth Third Bank
Flint Alumni Council
Kenneth Fortier
Freddolino Family Fund*
Frey Foundation
Ellen M. Gallavan
Gordon Food Service
Rodney Gouine
Tracy and Kerie Graham
John Greenfield
Doyle A. Hayes, Sr.
Haworth, Inc.
Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
The Hearst Foundations
Herman Miller Cares
Robert and Joyce Hetzler
Hi-Tec Building Services, Inc.
Howard Miller Clock Company
Stanley Hreneczko
Gregg and Kimberly Hughes
Scott and Kimberly Huizenga
Initech Global, LLC
Interphase Office Interiors, Inc.
Mike and Sue Jandernoa Fund**
Jerome P. Subar Foundation
Kirk Jewell
Lisa Johnson
Mr. Timothy L. Kalota
The Estate of Ruth Kilmer
Keith and Kathryn Klingenberg
Mark and Michelle Kooyers
KPMG, LLP
Mary and Blake Krueger
James and Clarine Lanting
The Larry and Judy Fredricks Charitable Fund***
Donald Lawless and Sherri Jones
Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga
William and Rochelle Lettinga
Livonia Chamber of Commerce
Bruce and Deb Los
Donald and Kathleen Maine
Master Tech Services, LLC
Gerilyn and Jamie May
Tom and Jackie McGovern
Jerry McKay
M. E. Davenport Foundation
The Meijer Foundation
Jim and Nancy Meyer
Char and Jack Meyering
Michigan Office Solutions
* Denotes donor advised funds given through the Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund
** Denotes donor advised funds given through the Grand Rapids Community Foundation
*** Denotes donors advised funds given through the National Christian Foundation
Jack H. Miller
Net Plus Connections
Dr. Donald and Alice Nichols
The Estate of Kevin O’Halla
Christos and Joan Panopoulos
Panopoulos Family Foundation*
Peter C. and Emajean Cook Foundation
Resendes Design Group, LLC
The Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation
Richards Gift Fund*
Mandee Rick
Rockford Construction
Frank and Sue Roder
Ronald Rodorigo
Peter F. Secchia Family
Shallan Spielmaker
State Farm Companies Foundation
Steelcase Foundation
Steelcase, Inc.
LaTeasha Thomas
Michael and Michelle Van Dyke
Michael and Gayle Van Gessel
Dave A. Veneklase Family
Ann and Andy Vidro
Mark A. Vroman
Steven and Beverly Wall
Russel and Mary Warner
Shelly and Warren Westbrook
Jennifer Phillips Wilson
Wolverine Worldwide Foundation
Kenneth and Carole Yerrick
Persevering through challenges
Jason Madden, MBA ’08, Executive Director
of Alumni & Development
As we look toward the 150th Anniversary of Davenport University, we celebrate the
outstanding achievements of our graduates. Some graduates, though, are not only recognizing
the end of their college career, but also their efforts to overcome difficult life challenges.
As a first-generation college student, Aaron Heikkila, ’13, grew up in Battle Creek.
Aaron knew that his journey after high school would take a lot of hard work and
perseverance. He attended Michigan Tech for two years but decided to go in a different
direction. He needed discipline, focus and new skills. He joined the U.S. Army and served
for four years in an IT role. He was able to use the skills he learned in the army to get
ahead at DU. He started taking classes at the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo campuses. But,
since he didn’t own a car, Heikkila walked nearly five miles a day to attend classes, and he
knew that in order to finish his degree in a timely matter, he had to put all his obstacles
aside. He moved to Grand Rapids to finish taking classes at the W.A. Lettinga Campus. He
lived on campus until he had saved enough money to buy a car and rent an apartment.
Heikkila was very focused on his studies and gained an interest in networking security.
“I liked to take computer viruses apart and see what they were and what they were
intended to do,” stated Heikkila. Through his new interest in network security, Heikkila
gained a mentor with one of his adjunct professors, Chris Payne, a Davenport alum (’08
and ’10). Payne helped Heikkila earn internships and his first job at Spectrum Health.
Coincidentally, Payne and Heikkila were both recruited by Target to work at their world
headquarters in Minnesota. Heikkila is a member of the Cyber Security Incident Response
Team as a Triage Analyst, and Payne is his boss.
“I am in the major leagues in the IT field. I was called up from the minor leagues, from
an Area Regional Leader. Now, I am employed by one of the world leaders in computer
security,” stated Aaron. “The best thing that happened to me while I was at DU were the
connections and friendships I made, especially with Chris. I am so grateful for all the
hardships I had, because it made me a better person and helped me to achieve my goals.
Now, I help other DU students and graduates through their own struggles.”
If you have a story of perseverance and would like to share it with us, please email me at
[email protected].
DAVENPORT.EDU | 37
(L to R): Ken Fortier, Vice-President of Alumni Association; Sam Ajwah; Mark Bugge; Ron Strachan; Patrick Hatch; Laura Oblinger; David Zokoe; Donald Maine,
Chancellor Emeritus; and Dr. Rick Pappas.
Honoring outstanding alumni
On a fall evening in October, the 2015 Alumni Awards Celebration was held in
the Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga Auditorium inside the Robert W. Sneden Center on
the W.A. Lettinga Campus. More than 100 alumni, faculty, staff, friends and students
were in attendance to commend six graduates for their professional and personal
accomplishments. The ceremony featured each awardees’ triumphs and tribulations and
provided an opportunity for each to speak about their experiences since graduation.
Chancellor Emeritus Donald W. Maine attended and presented the Donald W. Maine
College of Business Alumni Achievement Award to Laura Oblinger (’00).
The awardees shared their powerful and heartfelt stories throughout the evening and
expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the education they received at Davenport
and one of its predecessor institutions, the Detroit College of Business.
You may nominate a graduate at any time at Davenport.edu/AlumniAwards.
Distinguished Alumni Award
Mark Bugge, Chief Financial Officer,
VA Enterprises, LLC
MBA, 2000
Bugge began his career in 1992
at Amway, working in a variety of
finance positions until the family office
was established in 2000. Mark serves as Chief Financial Officer
and leads VA Enterprises, LLC (VAE), the office representing the
Van Andel family. His primary responsibilities include oversight
of internal and external staff, finance, risk management, human
resources, portfolio investments and acting liaison with Amway.
In addition to the responsibilities at VAE, Mark serves as a board
member and audit committee chairman for Macatawa Bank and
board member and chairman of the investment committee for
Knighthead Annuity & Life Assurance Company.
Hy Berkowitz Professional
Excellence Award
Sam Ajwah, Owner and Founder of
Beacon Engineering
BS in Electrical Engineering, 1999
Executive MBA, 2011
The owner and founder of Beacon Engineering, Ajwah
has 15 years of total practical experience in engineering design
and management, operations management, project strategic
planning and financial management, bid negotiations and
business management. He is also a certified Project Management
Professional (PMP). Prior to establishing Beacon Engineering, Sam
was an engineering department manager for an engineering services
provider. He worked on a variety of manufacturing projects while
leading a large group of engineers.
Outstanding Young Alumni Award
David Zokoe, Corporate Account Manager, Consumers Energy
Co-Owner of Zokoe Investments, LLC
BBA, 2011
Zokoe serves as the Corporate
Account Manager in the Grand Rapids
area for Consumers Energy. In this position, he builds and manages
relationships with the largest, most energy intensive businesses in
the Ionia, Wyoming and Kentwood areas. Outside of his corporate
job, Dave and his wife, Alex, have a growing entrepreneurial
business. Their company buys, sells and holds numerous
investment properties that provide quality, affordable housing
for the community.
Donald W. Maine College of Business
Alumni Achievement Award
Laura Oblinger, Executive Director,
Traverse City Chamber of Commerce
BBA in Marketing, 2000
Oblinger is the first female Executive
Director in the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce’s 100-year
history. In her 12-year tenure at the Chamber, Oblinger has the
oversight of all program and service work, organizational structure
and procedures and communications strategies of membership
and making sure its members needs are met. In 2014, under her
leadership, the Chamber was named Chamber of the Year by
the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals. For three
consecutive years, Oblinger was recognized in the Traverse City
Business News as one of the Top 40 Under 40 most influential
professionals in the area.
College of Health Professions
Alumni Achievement Award
Patrick Hatch, Paramedic, Life EMS
EMT Degree, 1984
After obtaining his State of Michigan
licensure, he began his 31-year
occupation as a paramedic at Life EMS.
He has held multiple roles at Life EMS, including field supervisor
and training instructor as well as an adjunct lab instructor at DU.
With his commitment to patient care, detail and overall patient
satisfaction, he has become a proven teacher and leader in the field
of EMS. Patrick loves mentoring new associates and leads with the
belief that “presentation creates perception.”
College of Technology Alumni
Achievement Award
Ron Strachan, Corporate Chief Information
Officer, McLaren Healthcare
BBA Computer Information Systems, 1984
Strachan currently serves as the Corporate Chief Information
Officer for McLaren Healthcare in Flint. He has been working
in Information Technology for over 30 years with his primary
focus on Healthcare IT. In 2007, he served as Chairman of the
Board for the College of Healthcare Information Management
Executives (CHIME) and is a long-term member of the Healthcare
Information Management Systems Society. He has achieved the
distinction of CHIME Fellow and is also a CHIME Certified
Healthcare CIO.
DAVENPORT.EDU | 39
• Name: Mike Nelsen
• Graduation Year: 1987
• Degree: Bachelor of Business Administration
• Location: Grand Rapids Fulton Campus
• Current Job: Chief Development Officer
at CommerceHub
Being a differentiator in and out of the classroom!
From the call center manager at JCPenney to becoming the
Chief Development Officer of CommerceHub, Mike Nelsen
is recognized as one of the retail industry’s top experts on
drop-ship fulfillment. Mike started to work at an early age and
quickly became motivated by his paychecks. He knew he had to
attend college and could have gone anywhere. He was drawn to
Davenport because of the flexible scheduling and proximity of the
school to his work and home. Mike was able to start taking classes
at 7:00 a.m. and work second shift. He loved how the professors
were still involved in the industry, making the classroom work
very hands-on and practical. “I can remember on my first day
of class, I had a professor say, ‘Open the book...Now close the
book...That is about the extent we are going to use the book.’ The
class was based on real-life examples and information that I could
directly apply to my work,” stated Mike.
Graduating in four years, going to school and working fulltime, Mike earned his BBA in Business in 1987. He was quickly
promoted and recruited to help launch QVC.com as employee
number two. Mike said, “They knew they wanted to sell things
on the Internet, and they knew that I knew how to do it.” Mike
built fulfillment operations from the ground up, including one
of the industry’s first drop-ship networks of 300+ suppliers that
powered $100+ million in 1999. After QVC.com, Mike helped
start Craftopia.com, which was sold to HSN. Now, the Chief
Development Officer at CommerceHub, Mike is responsible
for all business and client development efforts, both online and
brick-and-mortar retailers, distributors, and supplier companies
such Staples, Best Buy, Gateway, Sears, Costco, QVC and Meijer.
He was one of the first employees who started this company,
helping it grow from 15 employees to 400 today. Mike is an
extremely accomplished alum and credits his success to the
hands-on educational foundation he received at DU.
Mike’s advice to students and recent grads is to approach
anything you do like you have to earn it. “Most companies will
give you a chance and reward you if you do what they ask. Be a
differentiator in and out the classroom. Get involved in things
and go above and beyond.”
When Mike is not working, he spends most of his time
with his wife and three sons, who are all very active in athletics.
Between football, lacrosse and hockey games, Mike travels nearly
5,000 miles a year to watch his sons’ sports.
Do you know someone that has made DU proud? Submit their story to the alumni
office at [email protected] — we would love to hear from you!
In January 2016, Davenport University will begin a year-long celebration of its 150th anniversary.
To commemorate this milestone, a new Davenport history book is in development. This is an excerpt.
A capitol relationship: The Davenport-Ford connection
As America prepares to elect its 45th president, Davenport
University maintains its own ongoing connection with the 38th
occupant of the White House.
Gerald R. Ford represented Michigan’s fifth congressional district
in the House of Representatives for a dozen consecutive terms before
becoming president of the United States. However, the relationship
between Ford and Davenport not only preceded Ford’s career in
politics, it continued throughout his path from Capitol Hill to
the White House. Through a scholarship exclusive to Davenport
University, this important legacy will continue in perpetuity.
In 1941, several years before his first campaign for Congress,
Ford was hired by leaders of the University of Grand Rapids, a
four-year college affiliated with Davenport-McLachlan Institute.
Ford taught courses in law while serving alongside former Detroit
Lions coach George ‘Potsy’ Clark as assistant football coach of the
UGR Lancers.
Ford left Grand Rapids in 1942 to enlist in the U.S. Navy.
Returning to West Michigan after World War II, he entered
private law practice and became active in Republican politics. He
was elected to the House in 1948, a seat he would hold for the
next quarter-century.
Through Davenport College President Robert Sneden and
his wife Margaret, Ford maintained strong ties to Davenport
throughout his Congressional career. He was a regular guest
speaker at school functions, and during his terms he hired several
Davenport graduates as aides in his Washington D.C. office.
Before his passing in 2006, President Ford personally
granted Davenport University the exceptional opportunity to
name a prestigious scholarship in his honor and memory. The
scholarship, requiring a superlative academic record, is awarded
annually to one incoming freshman who demonstrates the
character and values exemplified by President Ford.
Clockwise from Left: 1. Barb Mieras, Randy Flechsig, Jerry Ford, and Donald Maine at the Fulton Street campus in the early 2000s. 2. Michigan Governor William Milliken,
Davenport College President Robert W. Sneden and Congressman Jerry Ford. 3. The University of Grand Rapids football squad. 4. Betty and Jerry Ford at the Oval Office.
DAVENPORT.EDU | 41
Classnotes
Professional
Health Taryn Anderson, ’06 BBA Marketing &
Advertising and Promotion, was recently appointed
to the Client Relationship Manager role with Copper
Beech Wealth Management in Bloomfield Hills.
Caitlin MacNeil, ’10 BBA Marketing, is now the
STEM Career Counselor at University of Houston
in Houston, Texas.
Alexis Burbul, ’15 BBA Marketing, is now the
Support Human & Content Lead at PayIt2 in
Grand Rapids.
Daysee Dawn Salleva, ’14 MBA Health Care
Mgmt Concentration, is now the Operations,
Programs and Human Resources Manager at
Physicians’ Organization of Western Michigan.
Kelly Chase, ’14 MBA Health Care Mgmt
Christine L. Welton, ’00 BAS Business, joined
Concentration, has recently joined the Physicians’
Organization of Western Michigan as a Data Analyst.
Bolhouse, Baar & Hofstee, P.C. in Grandville as an
Associate Attorney.
Sara Clancy, ’15 BBA Management, recently
Honors/Awards
Jenelle Marie Davis, ’10 BBA and MBA in
joined Novus Media Inc. in Plymouth, Minnesota,
as a Buying Coordinator.
Amanda Denomme, ’15 BBA Marketing,
joined Dart Container as a Digital Content
Strategist in Mason.
Mike Epstein, ’14 BBA Management, joined the
St. Louis Cardinals as a Direct Sales Representative
in St. Louis, Missouri.
Sarah Gombar, ’13 BBA Human Resource
Management, is now the Head Women’s Lacrosse
Coach at Maine Maritime Academy.
Heather Fairfax, ’12 BS Medical Case
Management, is a Talent Associate at Experis in
Grand Rapids.
Mirza Harambasic, ’14 BBA Management, has
Accounting, was recently honored by the Grand
Rapids Business Journal as one of their 2015 ‘40
Under 40’ award recipients.
Deaths
Sandra Badini, ’89 AS and BBA Computer
Information Systems, passed away on July 10, 2015.
Kimberly Cooper, ’93 BBA Business, passed
away on August 2, 2015.
Denise DeMarchis, ’95 BBA Marketing, passed
away on June 23, 2015.
Charles Harburn, ’77 AS Management, passed
away on September 21, 2015.
Douglas Kauffman, ’78 AS Management,
passed away on September 22, 2015.
joined the University of Hartford Men’s Soccer
Coaching staff as the Goalkeeper Coach in West
Hartford, Connecticut.
Bessie Mathis, ’78 AS Admin Technology, passed
away on June 30, 2015.
Aaron Heikkila, ’14 BS Computer Networking
Eloise Smock, ’98 AAS Health Insurance Claims
Management, passed away on July 19, 2015.
Technology, recently joined Target in Minneapolis,
Minnesota as an Incident Triage Analyst.
Wendi Wing, ’01 AAS Physical Therapist
Assistant, passed away on July 1, 2015.
Alumni Events
2016 Detroit “Hat Trick” Event
Friday, February 12
• 5:30 p.m. – BBQ and Brews
• 7:30 p.m. – Detroit Red Wings
Cost: $35 per person (Wings only)
$40 per person (Brewery and Wings)
Meet us in Detroit and enjoy a “hat trick” of
the city’s finest attractions. Start the night off
at Atwater Brewery and enjoy BBQ sliders
from the famous Slows BBQ. From there we
will head to the Joe for college alumni night
and catch the action as the Detroit Red Wings
take on the Colorado Avalanche.
More info and registration:
www.davenort.edu/2016RedWings
Keep in touch!
Submit your news by emailing [email protected], logging on to davenport.edu/classnotes,
calling us at 616-233-3420, or by filling out and mailing this form to: Alumni & Development,
Davenport University, 6191 Kraft Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512. Please include your full
name, class year, major and campus location you attended. We know exciting things are
happening to our graduates around the world, and we want to share the news!
First Name
Last Name
Maiden Name or Name on Record (if different)
Spouse's First Name
Spouse's Last Name
Spouse's Maiden Name or Name on Record (if different)
Class Year (if applicable)
Spouse's Class Year (if applicable)
Address
City
StateZip
Home Phone
Work Phone
Mobile Phone
Place of Employment
Preferred Email
Job Title
Your Update
DAVENPORT.EDU | 43
Friday, May 6, 2016
DeVos Place in Grand Rapids
Peter C. Cook Award Honoree:
Birgit M. Klohs
President and CEO, The Right Place, Inc.
Birgit M. Klohs
Anderson Cooper
Keynote Speaker:
Anderson Cooper
Journalist, author and CNN anchor.
Anchor of CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360°.
For reservations, call 616-233-3417 or email
[email protected] or visit davenport.edu/EIB.
SAVE THE DATE
6191 Kraft Ave.
Grand Rapids MI 49512

Building on the Legacy of Donald W. Maine

Transcription

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