INSIDE

May 25, 2012The

S uthwester

Graduate visualizes his future without sight

SEE HOOD PAGE 12

Earning a college de-gree can be a lot of hard work – long

hours studying and learning new concepts – all of this can make most students question whether their commitment is worth all the extra applica-tion.

For Southwestern Michi-gan College student Allen Hood, earning an associate degree was just another hur-dle for him to fi gure out how to get around or over.

Hood, 44, lost his sight three years ago on May 5. He graduated with honors May 5 from SMC with an Associ-ate in Arts degree. This fall, he will complete a second as-sociate degree in social work. He will begin working on a bachelor’s degree in human

we had. I ride my own horse, take care of fi ve horses, and I mow my own yard. But I shouldn’t fl y an airplane any-more.”

Hood worked with the Michigan Commission for the Blind in Kalamazoo to

services through Bethel Col-lege in Mishawaka.Hood will receive the Post-Secondary Student Award through the Michigan Occupational Spe-cial Populations Association on May 10.

Considered legally blind, Hood has some limited vision where he can see a small area very close up. Recently, his vision has started to return, but only allowing him to see shadows at a distance much like looking through a “thick fog.”

“The doctors don’t know why I lost my sight,” said Hood, who lives in Union with his wife of 20 years, Belinda. “They don’t know why it is coming back or how much of my sight will return.”

Hood lost his sight within

three days. Prob-ably the biggest hurdle he had to conquer was to come to terms with the loss of his vision. It took him the better part of a year.

“Yes, it sucks,” said Hood, who was an electrician and welder before losing his sight. “But I real-ized I had to take back what was taken from me. I had to get mad. Every time a hurdle in thrown out, I try to fi nd a way over it or around it.

“Some things you learn to do differently. I can wire (electrical) better now than I did before,” he said. “I cooked 175 chicken halves for a party

Allen Hood graduated May 5 with an Associate in Arts degree. Hood lost his sight exactly three years ago on May 5. “This morning has been a very refl ective one,” Hood said before walking across the stage to get his diploma May 5.

Stephanie Harrington, left, and her sister, Samantha Chubb, right, help their mother, Lisa Ketcham, with her cap before commencement ceremonies May 5. Harrington, 26, of Berrien Springs, earned an Associate in Applied Science in Medical Assisting; sister, Samantha, 22, of Dowagiac, earned an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing; and mom, Lisa, 48, of Buchanan, earned her Associate in Applied Science in Medical Assisting.

Largest number of grads in college’s history45th commencement ceremony

Southwestern Michigan College bestowed the largest number of de-

grees in its 46-year history during the 45th commence-ment ceremony May 5. The college conferred 527 associ-ate degrees and certifi cates to 447 SMC students.

“The growth over the years has been steady with a jump in the early 90s,” said SEE GRADS PAGE 2

SMC President Dr. David Mathews. “But in the last 10 years it has been substantial. This can be contributed to our positioning in the region, as well as our student success rates, on-campus housing, and student life activities we offer, creating a total college life experience for our stu-dents.”

Michigan Sen. John Proos

delivered the commence-ment address. Sen. Proos, of St. Joseph, was elected to the Michigan Senate in Novem-ber 2010 to represent the 21st district of Berrien, Cass, and most of Van Buren counties. He served as State Repre-sentative of the 79th district from 2005 through 2010.

Eugene C. Staples, pastor of the Second Baptist Church

in Dowagiac, gave the invo-cation and benediction. The SMC Symphonic Band, con-ducted by Dr. Jonathan Kor-zun, and Select Voices, under the direction of David Carew, provided music for the cer-emony.

Learning Center Summer Reading Program

Sign-up before May 30Contact: Katharine @ klandstrom@swmich.edu

Learning Center HoursDowagiac campus

Spring Semester Hours (May – Aug. 9) Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.Sunday: Closed

Intersession Hours (Aug. 10 – Sept. 1) Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Niles Area Campus

Spring Semester Hours (May – Aug. 9)Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.Saturday & Sunday: Closed

Intersession Hours (Aug. 10 – Sept. 1) Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m. – NoonSaturday & Sunday: Closed

SAC/ FitnessCenter Hours:Monday – Thursday: 6:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.Saturday: 8 a.m. – Noon

Canyon Hours:Monday, Wednesday, & Friday: 1 – 4 p.m.

Zollar Café HoursLocated in the Student Activity CenterMonday, Tuesday, Wednesday, & Thursday: 7:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.Closed Friday, Saturday, & Sunday

Cybercrimes – topic of June 19 presentation

Patrick Corbett, a professor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School will be speaking at 7 p.m. June 19 in the SAC theatre. Cor-bett, a former member of the Michigan Attorney General’s Offi ce, is an expert on Cybercrimes in Michigan. He helped start the High Tech Crime Unit investigating and prosecuting federal and state Internet and computer-related crimes.

MICHIGAN

Allegan

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEAlex Schut

Bangor

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEAngela Borden, honors

CERTIFICATEHaylee Moore

Baroda

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSGregory Belanger

Benton Harbor

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSMegan BahusDanny DahmsMarnina MillerBetty Sims

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEJeremy FlagelKaurie Young

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCESage HewittPaula Pickard

Berrien Center

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSMatthew Baker

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCERobert Allen, honorsStephanie Bishop, honorsJason Edgar

CERTIFICATERobert Allen

Berrien Springs

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSAndrew ColemanRomauld JonesBlair Yankey

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEJoel Adu, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJessica AnzuresMatthew BromilowDesiree Bullock, honorsStephanie Harrington, honorsDave LuwembaAngela NelsonAlissa Root, honors

CERTIFICATEAndrew ColemanStephanie HarringtonAngela NelsonJillian WilsonGlenn Wood

Bridgman

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSNicole PikeJohn Reitz

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCECaroline Pfl iger

Buchanan

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSStephanie BurnsAustin DykstraAshley French, honorsAmanda Lindamood, honorsTimothy Mosier

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCESharon ArnoldStephanie BurnsKelsey Dykstra

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCELisa KetchamJeffrey Platt, honorsRobert PrzybylskiNicole Rutherford, honorsRobert Shelton, honorsBritney ShinallFrederick Syrette

CERTIFICATEStephanie BurnsTrevor Gray Lisa Ketcham

Rebekah Martin Spencer MillerDakota PriceBritney ShinallRobert Shreve

Cassopolis

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSEric BrownMatthew Eby, honorsCourtney HycheMimi KeosakdySierra Knepple, honorsLucienne Lafontant, honorsMason McMillenBrett Poorman, honorsScott TurnbowTerry Williams

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEPaige Breden, honorsJennifer CraftEmily HartsellCourtney HycheJoanna PickarRachel Sexton

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEPrescott DollMelissa LoveGene McIntosh, honorsBrandy Reed, honorsKayleen Velthouse, honors

CERTIFICATERandi HoffmanMacy HowardJon SwingleKayleen Velthouse

Centreville

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJohn VanHare, honors

Coloma

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSRebecca Wendzel, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJohn Barker, honors

CERTIFICATECecilia Collard

Constantine

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSAmber Fries, honorsGretchen Hale

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEMichael Middleton, honors

CERTIFICATECarlos Hidalgo

Decatur

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSTeresa Brautigam, honorsJeffrey ParishChristian SmithSheryl Wilber

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCECorey Barbieri, honorsKim HullMark JohnsonHolly OgdenJeffrey ParishSandra Wulff

CERTIFICATETeresa BrautigamJesus Nolasco

Dowagiac

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSSarah BellTravis BruensMatt BusslerJessica CarlsenBrittany CavanaryElizabeth DitzGlen Ditz, honorsMarcie EnnesserElizabeth FeirickGabriela FernandezKelly Frantz, honorsKandace Gebhard, honorsStaci Heffi ngtonKristen HoadleyMercedes JohnsonAnthony LangleyJoseph LarsonArqullia LewisMatthias Longden

Brendan McCaffreyAdeline McFadden, honorsEric MortonDurrell MurrayAmber OlsenShelby PalmerHeather PenleyJessica PerezTravis PiperMelissa PotterChelsey PrestonJacob RichcreekAnthony SavianoAndrea SkallaTiffaney StreetAmanda Swartz Benjamin Wainwright, honorsJodi WallaceKatie WoodSarah Wright, honors

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCETesla AyersKatie Wood

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEAbraham ArangoBradley Baker, honorsTonnie Blackamore, honorsTiffany Brooks, honorsJenniffer CalkinsSamantha ChubbBrian Darlas, honorsDavid FesterKelly Frantz, honorsTrenten FrymanKandace Gebhard, honorsLaura Goffi netLindsay Heidenreich, honorsChristina HintonMichael KempistyKenneth King, honorsRose KleesElizabeth LaPorteTina LedfordKassandra LeitzCorinne MarkleKathlene McClainGuy Nearpass, honorsDavid Ottinger, honorsMelissa PotterChelsey PrestonDominic Rappelli, honorsJonathan ReinhardtKyle RobbinsAllycia RudlaffRobin RunyanTiffany SmithJames SpauldingAdam SpringsteenAlyson Wheeler, honorsSarah Wilson

CERTIFICATETonnie BlackamoreStaci Heffi ngtonMelanie HowardKenneth KingGuadalupe ManzanoDavid OttingerJulia RumseyAnthony SavianoMichelle SmithTiffany SmithKrystin Weberg

Eau Claire

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSKristina BlackmoreElise PeakLynda Saldana

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEZachary Harner, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEKayla HarrisLaura Tennison, honors

CERTIFICATESheila PenrodAmanda PiedtJessica Trail

Edwardsburg

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSJoshua ArmstrongRachel Breden, honorsKatelynn CannonKathy Davis, honorsMatthew DudleyMichael JonesHolly KutschbachNeil LemrowSarah Luttrell

Ethan WesleyLloyd Whitmyer

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCERyan AckelsKayla GorneyNicole Griffi ng, honorsMark Kaminsky

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCENicole Griffi ng, honorsPaul Harris, honorsMeredith HoskingKylie HurleyRichard MillerTrista MillerMichael MullinaxSheila PrakletJamilynn ProbstDavid Sinkiewicz, honorsRonald Spring, honorsJoAnn Sunday, honorsElizabeth WeberLloyd Whitmyer

CERTIFICATEKylie HurleySheila Praklet

Galien

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSJessica HickeySusan Schrumpf

CERTIFICATEAllen Williams

Gobles

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEMallory Gilbert

Hartford

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSSarah BrileyCourtney RokosJessica Rosses

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCERicky AustinLuz Calderon, honorsLoretta CrossMelissa IsbrechtBrenda Powers, honors

CERTIFICATERicky Austin

Sarah BrileyLuz CalderonMeagan Rodriguez

Holland

CERTIFICATEHeather Gerding

Jones

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Andrew Churchill, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEAmanda O’Connor

CERTIFICATECorianne Fisher

Kalamazoo

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Jasmine Cloud

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEJasmine Cloud

Lawrence

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Elizabeth HemingwayAlanna Sanborn-Whiteman

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEMichael BrumleyRichard Dorstewitz, honors

CERTIFICATEMichael BrumleyRichard Dorstewitz

Lawton

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCERachael Ryan

CERTIFICATEOlga Gomez

Marcellus

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Rachel HartlerodeSara Merrills, honorsCaleb Reuter

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEMorgan HenryPeter Steinkraus, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEBrian PhillipsApril RosalesAudrey Shaw

Mattawan

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJessica Fouty

Muskegon

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCERuth McClain

New Buffalo

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Courtney Kliss

Newaygo

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEMichelle Howarth

Niles

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Dustin BaxterDonald BennettRichard BrownTamiko BrownThomas BuzzardEmily Calbreath-Frasieur, honorsStephani Cashier-RodriguezMelissa Dickey, honorsBryce FlanneryAndrea Groote, honorsAshlee HicksJoseph KelleyShannon KnightAmy KonopinskiEmily KriegerKathy Mankowski, honorsNicholas MathiasLindsey MedlinChristopher Mondschein, honorsBrooke Olson, honorsTamara PecotAshleigh Pellow, honors Emily Sossoman, honorsNicole Syson

Congratulations 2012 SMC Graduates!FROM PAGE 1 GRADS

Michigan Sen. John Proos, 21st district, spoke to the 45th graduating class at Southwestern Michigan College on May 5.

PHOTO BY DENNIS HAFER

GRADS CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Page 2 The Southwester GRADUATION 2012 May 25, 2012

The college will begin construction on the third student housing facility this summer with expected completion date for fall 2013.

Southwestern Michigan College Cory Harding, of Cassopolis, was named the Top Advocate for the college’s speech competi-tion.

Harding, who beat out four other SMC students, received the award after the fi nal competition last Friday. Judging the competition was Dowagiac Mayor Donald Lyons, SMC Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Fred. Mathews, Monica Kennedy, deputy clerk with the Cass County Clerk’s Offi ce, and Melissa Sytsma, with the Cass County Prosecutor’s Offi ce, and John Eby, manag-ing editor of the Dowagiac Daily News.

Harding’s winning speech topic was “Why Assisted Suicide Should be Legalized.” Citing the pain and suffering terminally ill individuals face, Harding argued that “people should have the right to make their own decisions” when it comes to dying and that they should be allowed to do so with dignity.

The speech had to be 10 minutes and the speaker had to demonstrate their ability to present an argument that was or-ganized, and included an introduction, conclusion and main points; clearly state their position on the subject; and be able to deliver the speech at the level of a novice public speaker.

The other competitors were Bridgette Stone, of Niles, whose topic was “The Healthy Aspects of Beauty Pageants;” Thomas Cole, of Niles, whose topic was “Why Parental Consent for Mi-nors Should be Required to Have an Abortion;” Shannon Keene, of Dowagiac, whose topic was “Why Assisted Suicide Should be Legalized;” and Bryann Books, of Three Rivers, whose subject was “Why Federal Subsidies Should not be Cut to the Arts.”

Harding received the award from Sarah Mathews, SMC’s ad-junct speech instructor. All the students were enrolled in Speech 102 class.

Cory Harding, second right, was named Top Advocate for his speech on assisted suicide. Other fi nalist were (left to right) Bryann Books, Tom Cole, Bridgette Stone, Harding, and Shannon Keene.

Cory Harding named Top Advocate for his speech

College to build 3rd student housing facilityT he Southwestern Michigan College Board

of Trustees approved the construction of what will be the college’s third student

housing unit during its April 16 meeting. In response to overwhelming demand for

the college’s on-campus student housing, the board of trustees authorized the construction of what will be SMC’s third residential facility. The building is slated to open in 2013, and will be an identical replica of the two existing three-story buildings featuring two- and four-bedroom, ful-ly furnished suites.

According to SMC President Dr. David Mathews, “Southwestern Michigan College grew by 60 percent from 2006 to 2010. Each of the college’s existing two residential facilities has opened to 100 percent occupancy every year since they opened. SMC’s on-campus housing meets students’ need for an affordable, total col-lege life experience while generating additional revenue for the college to offset signifi cantly re-duced state funding.

“The modern suite-style fl oor plans, all with private bedrooms, living rooms, and ful-ly-equipped kitchens, have been immensely popular with our students,” continued Presi-dent Mathews. “Parents have been especially impressed by the high level of security that has been incorporated into the building design, and of course, by the fact that SMC’s tuition is less than 40 percent the cost of many other colleges and universities.”

The construction of the third residential fa-cility will also be accompanied by the creation of additional parking adjacent to the building, and a new residential life “quad” between the three residence halls. According to President Mathews, “We expect the new residential quad, like the center of campus Alumni Plaza, to be another exceptional space for our students to gather together, to work, and to socialize.”

The Board of Trustees authorized the admin-istration to negotiate with Shelton Construction Co. of Benton Harbor to extend the college’s con-tract for this third phase project. “The Board of Trustees is pleased to extend our contract with Shelton Construction Co.,” said Dr. Fred L. Mathews, chairman of the board. “Continuing to work with the local organization that built Phase I and Phase II housing gives great added value to the project. Shelton’s original bid was by far the lowest among their competitors. They were able to reduce this cost by $50,000 and provide some quality enhancements for Phase II. We are confi dent that Shelton will be able to provide the highest value for this third phase by extending our contract with them. It is also a great plus for our local economy that Shelton Construction Co. draws from a strong subcontractor and supplier base from our local area.”

The Southwester Page 3CAMPUS NEWSMay 25, 2012

Page 4 The Southwester CAMPUS NEWS May 25, 2012

A poem in three parts

Music is a priceless gemMusic comes from a place deep insideIt comes from a place where you can always hideHide from the things that scare you so muchYou sometimes shudder at a simple touchThe touch of the man that hurt you deepYou pray, “Now I lay me down to sleep”You fi nd deep inside an inspiring placeFor you, music is your saving grace. You open your heart to melodies and proseYour heart is wounded and nobody knows. Music takes you away from this lifeIt takes you to a world with no more strife. Music transcends your inner beingIt even gets the blind ones seeing. Music sets your spirit freeIt allows you to simply beMusic is a priceless gem(Only to you, and not to them)

Learning Center’s poetry contest winners

Dance is a passionate artDance is a passionate artDance appreciation isn’t something from which you dartAway from because you can’t payAll you can say is, “It’s going to be okay.”People dance to free their soulsThey don’t want to go through life paying tollsTolls and fees that come with lifeLeads a depressed spirit to end it all with a knife. Some people eat and some people runWe all don’t just dance for funYes, it’s fun and yes we love itBut, dance is what makes us rise above itWe rise above the hate and fearWe dance and sometimes we shed a tearWe jump and leap across the fl oorWe are always looking for an open doorAn open door to welcome us inWith open arms and without sinAll we want is to be acceptedInstead we get defunded and ultimately rejected.

The artsThe arts are important to the human raceThey are crucial in understanding this sometimes-awful placeLeft brain, right brain is the pick of the drawThank God, being good at math isn’t the lawWe express ourselves in many different waysThe world should start accepting us one of these daysWe may all appreciate different craftsFinal copies always follow rough draftsThe world without the arts would be a world without feelingPeople forget all art is a form of healingHow do you put a price on a human being? Aren’t we all taught seeing is believing? In all reality, we create our own directionWhen we die, we always have a resurrection.We die from the jabs from the “establishment”But we will never be silenced of our lament. We stand proud and tall and we continue to createYou, my friend, are way out of date. You boast of knowledge and of powerYet when you feel real emotion you cower. You cower away from the raw interactionSo you run away and make another transaction. You spend money here, but not over thereYou pretend like you actually, really care. All people matter under the sunLife isn’t all about throwing a ball and having funPeople do hold jobs in the artsThey don’t all grow up to assemble parts In a factory from nine till fi veThey actually can excel and most likely will thrive. Thrive on the fact they don’t live a lieWe will always be fulfi lled until the day that we die.

Open your eyes and see in my heartThis poem was the best way for me to startTo start to say the way I truly feelOf how important the arts are to me…and yes, the arts are a big deal!

The Learning Center, in collaboration with the Technical Communications Lab in the O’Leary Building, held a poetry contest Feb. 20. Students were asked to submit po-ems. The top three poems appear below:

I’m a warriorI’ve been in battleDid not rattleI’ve faced my fearsWith a lot of tears I’ve toured the world in warsKicked down doorsAs my journey endedIt was oh so splendid

I got to go homeAll in one pieceBack to my mother, kids, and niece

They asked did you killI said it was God’s willWar is WarI’ll stop being a boreGod Bless AmericaForever more

“What matters to me?” By AUGUST GARRITANO2nd Place Winner

You know me; I’m the baby who could have diedBut mama got me to the hospital in time.You know me; I’m that little girl with the pretty pink dressA hand me down, that my sister loved bestYou know me; I’m that third grader who cried the day she failedYou know me; I’m that 10 years old who would get sick riding in a carYou know me; I’m that sister who had a brother that lived to farYou know me; I’m that teen who quit school, to become a starWhile singing in the local bar.You know me; I’m that young woman who had four kidsAnd if I said I did I did.You know me; I’m that lady who has a college degreeBecause she knows education is the keyYou know me; I’m that teacher assistant who taught children

How to read and write, and prayed for them day and night.You know me; I’m the lady who became a wife, just knew it would last for life.You know me; I’m that wife who became single, and not looking forward to The mingleYou know me; I ‘m the one who took care of mom, while trying to keep herself calm.You know me; I’m the mother who did her best, with putting problems to restYou know me; I’m the grand, who still has a fast back hand.You know me, I’m that great-grand who loves them all, and will help them up When they fallYou know me, I’m Gods child, you can tell by my smileYou know me, I’m covered in fl esh, but spiritually you know me best.You know me, Everyday I’m the sameKANDICE is my name.

“You Know Me”By KANDICE JACKSON3rd Place Winner

“Me”By CONSTANCE MARSHALL1st Place Winner

The Southwester Page 5CAMPUS NEWSMay 25, 2012

PRESIDENT’S LIST

MICHIGAN

BarodaZachary Hays

Berrien CenterEleanor Harrison

Berrien SpringsJoel AduDavid McIntoshJohn Robertson

BuchananRebekah Martin

CassopolisMeghan HaasJennifer Parrish

ColomaJennifer Riley

ConstantineJennifer Jones

DowagiacZachariah BlankTiffany BrooksShannon BurkettGabrielle DormanJohn HokansonDouglas HowardShannon KeeneSamantha MathewsAdeline McFaddenLaura MillerBrittany ParrittJonathan ReinhardtFawn RobertsTiffani SchoffJoseph VanTuyle

Eau ClaireJames LaubachLaura TennisonLeah Tillstrom

EdwardsburgRebecca FullerAmanda GroeneveldStacie Litty

HartfordLauren Dowd

LawtonMichelle Brooks

MarcellusZachary Gunther

NilesDonnie BatmanKara BouwkampGary CrouchJessica KoenigTheresa MeadorAshley OlsonBrooke OlsonAngela Rampi

William RileyJames SchraderRoberta WinnJuliana Woodbridge

Paw PawAmber Hatfi eld

Saint JosephCraig BickettStephen McAndrew

Sawyer Richard Martin

Three RiversBryann Books

Vandalia Anna BrockLila Cox INDIANA

Bristol Jennifer Nissley

Elkhart Valerie EmersonKatrina Van Wormer

Granger Doug Staien

Mishawaka Loyd Weldy

Nappanee Holly Wilson

South Bend Andrew Popielski

INTERNATIONAL

Venezuela Gabriela Bastidas Rodriguez

DEAN’S LIST

MICHIGAN

BangorRobert BoothCandace Shouse

Benton HarborRoy KolinskeElijah Zilke

Berrien CenterLevi BarnumStephanie BishopJason Edgar

Berrien SpringsKenneth BowlingKayla FosterBenjamin HausmannMegan HowardRachel JakubsSkyler Johnson

Ryan MarschkeChelsey Schmidt

BridgmanBrandon AshleyChristina EvansErika PetersonCaroline Pfl igerEmily UlrathMelanie Watson

BuchananDavid BaltazarSimona DavisRikki FerrellAshley FrenchTrevor GrayKaley KimbrellAmanda LindamoodSpencer MillerDakota PriceCory ScogginRobert SheltonRobert ShreveChkuhmoen TopashAmanda WynnNeal Zech

CaledoniaKayleigh Babinski

CassopolisWilliam CarrShannon CraigBrooks DiamondHeather EllisAnthony FisherColin HardingAmanda HigleyAlicia KeefeSherri KeefeHeather NeuJoan NormanRick PasleyBrandy ReedKristan StelmasiakScott Turnbow

ColomaBianca Wright

ConstantineNicklas BarberMonique BergAmber FriesDavid GarciaKelsey HolmesMichael MiddletonJordan Rumsey

DecaturJazzmine GallasLauren GlynnByron GoffSally GoodrichKevin HolmesNicole HolmesJavier JimenezGary StollJames Tidd

DowagiacMatthew CollinsKevin ConleyRylie CoxTimothy CraigMichael DavisJustin DeuelMistel deVaronaElizabeth DitzGlen DitzSamantha DoornChimene DragooBethani EichelKeara FitzgeraldSamuel GanttKandace GebhardElisabeth GokeyStephany GrossEmily HeidenreichLindsay HeidenreichKortney HustonMichael KempistyDrew LuthringerKathlene McClainBrandy McDonaldPerla Medina CanoJonathon MyersJoseph OhlenbuschMatthew OosterwalDavid OttingerHannah PachecoPeter PrestonDominic RappelliBrad RuminerDawn SecordBrooke SmithDanny St CinMorgan TanzilloDanielle TaylorErika TaylorCharles TideyJacqueline TschuppGonzalo VillegasBenjamin WainwrightAshley WilliamsSarah WilsonToby Yuhas

Eau ClaireHeather BaileyMichael GlassmanZachary HarnerCourtney McGregorKatherine Sage

EdwardsburgJill BralickJason CarberryJessika ClementBryana CraigBenjamin FaheyTimothy MaretKirsten PerrySheila PrakletStephanie SellersBrittani StutsmanLloyd Whitmyer

GalienCynthia Dickman

HarbertKathryn Rosenbaum

HartfordJanell BirmeleLuz CalderonRachel CarlisleTerry DeFordHolly KucharskiFaith Styx

HollandMikyla Webb

JonesDerek BentNicole HiscockBrianna McGinnisAmanda O’Connor

LawrenceMichael BrumleyJoshua DanielsonRichard Dorstewitz

LawtonOlga GomezCarlee Stoker

MarcellusJessica HighSara MerrillsCody MikelPeter Steinkraus

MuskegonRuth McClain

New BuffaloCourtney KlissMarcus RosenbaumShelby SextonCharles Strebe

NewaygoMichelle Howarth

NilesKeely AllenAngela AndersonGary BarnesAshlee BielskiNicholas BowkerEmily Calbreath-FrasieurLisa CherroneShana ChrismonMelissa DickeyNicole DominguezAndrew EcksteinBelinda FordjourJames FortunaJessica FortunaKyle GarlangerJonathan GleasonRosemary HamiltonTyler HartmanAnthena HeckathorneElisabeth HendrickSkylar HermanNathan HopkinsDesire IngabireAmanda JonesKayla JoughinJulie KaterHunter Krueger

Alvin KylesArthur LauriPaige LinbackVan MalcolmKathy MankowskiTaylor MattifordAmy MillsRobert MitchellBrittney MolicaChloe MonicaKylee MuddBonnie RobertsSteven RolstonZach RoseKylee SalisburyLois SattlerKatie SmallwoodDavid SmithBridgette StoneShana StoutChelsea ThompsonEmily WagnerVictoria WoodsErik Wright

Paw PawJessica BironPaige GardnerErica HaselbergerHannah HensonMegan MearingChad Sinkler

PullmanTrevor Schewe

SawyerKacie Mercer

SchoolcraftLexis Peoples

SodusAllegra CoffeenMelissa Mauchmar

St. JosephDavid BrownAndrea DienesBrittney GardLivia MussiAlyson Snyder

StevensvilleKayla Matheny

Three OaksDaniel AldenHeather LesterStephanie SextonLyndsey Topolski

Three RiversGrace AshenfelterRebecca Hall-LueggeNicholas HoldenVercysia JorgeChelsea Thompson

UnionMegan BakerAileena Fager

VandaliaKellie BienzScotty ChandlerJohn CrothersJoshua DeubnerKelly FarrCortney RamseyLaura Sherman

WatervlietOlivia CasasantoAshley Minnick

White Pigeon Kristina KingKylie Oldenburg

INDIANA

BristolMelissa McClainJessica Slayton

ElkhartElizabeth AllenKevin KruyerAdriana Sanchez

Fort WayneAngelia Wilson

GoshenConnell Coyne

GrangerAlexander KingBrian Rex

LaPorteEsmeralda Guzman

MishawakaKaren CallawayShawna KelloggTravis LeemreisLorraine PetersonNicole Wieczorek

OsceolaDylan Souza

South BendPatsy Barfi eldJason BonnerKristin DoyleAmanda GriceTimothy McHenryJeffery MiracleCorey SmolkaBrelynn Wawrzyniak

INTERNATIONAL

Ghana Samuel Kwarteng

United Republic Of TanzaniaKavita Patel

MalawiJames Lidamlendo

Southwestern Michigan College has named the following students to the President’s List for the 2012 winter semester. Students honored on the President’s List must earn a perfect 4.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale while carrying a full load of studies (at least 12 credits). Students honored on the Dean’s List must earn a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale while carrying a full load of studies.

Winter semester President’s and Dean’s lists

Several SMC music students have auditioned and been accepted to competi-tive music schools at various state universities for 2012-2013, according to David Carew, music instructor at SMC. Carew said this is the largest num-

ber of music students in one year to be accepted into music progratms at other schools. The following students were accepted at Central Michigan University and Western Michigan University:

Central Michigan University, music education (choral)Anthony TibbittsGrace AshenfelterJacob RichcreekSam GanttWestern Michigan University Joshua Bungart, vocal performanceChelsea Thompson, music education (choral)Deana Phillips, instrumental education (clarinet)

Calvin Hill, an SMC and Ferris student, placed fi rst in a rock climbing competition at the University of Notre Dame. Hill, who won a trophy and mug, com-

peted in the intermediate class by completing three routes – two V4+ routes and one V4. The next level is V5 and is the advanced class for indoor rock climbers. The intermediate class is for climbers who have between six months and two years climbing experience.

Hill has been climbing for 10 months and this was his fi rst competition. The Guck Fravity competition at ND had 50 participants, including many ND stu-dents as well as SMC climbers. Climbers had to climb the three hardest routes they could and record them on a piece of paper. The competition was judged.

“I love the sport and want to progress even further,” Hill said. “Hopefully rep-resenting SMC would be really cool.”

7 SMC students accepted into CMU & WMU music programs

Calvin Hill wins ND rock climbing competition

Page 6 The Southwester GRADUATION 2012 May 25, 2012 The Southwester Page 7GRADUATION 2012May 25, 2012

A Time for Celebration!PHOTOS BY DENNIS HAFER AND ANN BURCH

A Time for Celebration!PHOTOS BY DENNIS HAFER AND ANN BURCH

Page 8 The Southwester CAMPUS NEWS May 25, 2012

Southwestern Michigan College recognized 117 students who graduated with honors at the col-lege’s 45th commencement May 5.

The annual SMC Honors Reception, held in the Fred L. Mathews Conference Center East, showcased students who earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher.

“Every year Southwestern Michigan College takes pride in the quality of education it is able to give its students,” said college President Dr. David Mathews, who welcomed the students, their families and friends to the event. “This quality speaks for itself by the num-ber of students graduating with honors each year. It is SMC’s goal to ensure its students have a solid educa-tional foundation when they transfer to another uni-versity or enter the workforce.”

Honor students Joel Adu, of Berrien Springs, and Laura Tennison, of Eau Claire, were also recognized as representing the college on the All-Michigan Aca-demic.

The guest speaker for the reception was Dr. William Tomory, professor emeritus in the college’s communi-cations department. Dr. Tomory, who has a doctorate in English from the University of Denver, has taught

English at SMC since 1981 and has had the emeritus status since 2010.

Musical entertainment was provided by the college’s Select Voices, directed by David Carew, SMC’s director of Choral Music.

Dr. Tomory told students they will encounter many obstacles in life that will require them to “pick them-selves up and start over again.”

“I started out as a business major and then switched to accounting and then economics,” Tomory said. “By my senior year at the University of Michigan, I had de-cided I couldn’t go in that direction.”

He said life is about reinventing yourself and mak-ing mid-course corrections as you go. Communicating well is the key to furthering yourself and your career, Tomory said, adding there are four points to doing this:

Don’t let the skills that you’ve learned, such as us-ing the English language well, become rusty; learn a second language; expect the unexpected; and “embrace the smiley face.”In other words, people who present themselves to oth-ers with a smile on their face will have many smiles re-turned to them.

Laura Tennison and Joel Adu, right, were recognized during the April meeting of the college’s Board of Trustees for representing the college on the All-Michigan Academic Team. Presenting award recognitions was SMC President Dr. David Mathews.

Dr. William Tomory was the keynote speaker at this year’s Honors Reception.

Students honored for academic success

BangorAngela Borden

Berrien Center Robert AllenStephanie Bishop

Berrien SpringsJoel AduDesiree BullockStephanie HarringtonAlissa Root

Bristol, Ind.Jennifer Nissley

Buchanan Ashley FrenchAmanda LindamoodJeffrey PlattNicole RutherfordRobert Shelton

CassopolisPaige BredenMatthew EbySierra KneppleLucienne LafontantGene McIntoshBrett PoormanBrandy ReedKayleen Velthouse

Centreville John VanHare ColomaJohn BarkerRebecca Wendzel

Constantine Amber FriesMichael Middleton

DecaturCorey BarbieriTeresa Brautigam

DowagiacBradley BakerTonnie BlackamoreTiffany BrooksBrian DarlasGlen DitzKelly FrantzKandace GebhardLindsay HeidenreichKenneth KingAdeline McFaddenGuy NearpassDavid OttingerDominic RappelliBenjamin WainwrightAlyson WheelerSarah Wright

Eau ClaireZachary HarnerLaura TennisonEdwardsburg Rachel BredenKathy DavisNicole Griffi ngPaul HarrisDavid SinkiewiczRonald SpringJoAnn Sunday

Elkhart, Ind. Elizabeth AllenKevin KruyerLauren Strock

Granger, Ind. Kristina CarrollAngela LewisKathleen Seel

HartfordLuz CalderonBrenda Powers

JonesAndrew Churchill

Lawrence Richard Dorstewitz

Marcellus Sara MerrillsPeter Steinkraus

Middlebury, Ind.Amanda Huff

Mishawaka, Ind. Karen CallawayModester ChattaShawna Kellogg

NilesEmily Calbreath-FrasieurTaelyn CassidayKelly CourtneyAndrew CoxGary CrouchJoshua CurtisMelissa DickeyKyle GarlangerAndrea GrooteLeslie HopperPaula KendallLynzy ManalotoKathy MankowskiRobert MitchellChristopher MondscheinAshley OlsonBrooke OlsonAshleigh PellowBonnie RobertsSteven RolstonPhilip ShirkEmily SossomanErica ThomasHeather WalkerKristen WernerCody Williams

Osceola, Ind. Laurium Carter

PortageRachel Johnston

Sodus Melissa Mauchmar

South Bend, Ind.Paul MartinczakValerie AkeyoHannah Marquardt

StevensvilleJacob Roy

St. JosephAmanda BarberElizabeth Drenth

Three Oaks Daniel AldenDeanna PhillipsStephanie Sexton

Three RiversChelsea Thompson

UnionAileena FagerShirley HoodMary Maynard

VandaliaCortney Ramsey

White PigeonArica FreshourKylie Oldenburg

Whitmore Lake, Mich.Jessica Bielinski

InternationalSamuel Kwarteng, GhanaAnn Mutahi, Kenya

Below are the honors graduates listed by home town:

Kylie Oldenburg, middle, and Lauren Krueger, second from left, were honored for their academic excellence in the math/science department. Also pictured is faculty from the department Dr. Keith Howell, left, chair of the department; and faculty Jackie Perry, second from right, and Andrew Dohm.

Two students receive math/science awards

T wo Southwestern Michigan College students received recognition for their math and science achievement.

Kylie Oldenburg, who graduated with honors from the college on May 5, received the Math/Science De-partment Appreciation Award and the Darrin William Memorial Scholarship award. Lauren Krueger also received the Math/Science Department Appreciation Award.

The award is given to a fi rst-year or high school student who demonstrates a strong work ethic, shows academic promise, plans to pursue a science, technol-ogy, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related ca-reer, and who has made a signifi cant contribution to the math/science department. Each recipient received a gift card to the SMC Bookstore.

Since this is the fi rst year for the appreciation award, math/science faculty chair Dr. Keith Howell said because of the “exceptional” work Oldenburg and Krueger has done within the department, the award

was given to them.The Darrin Williams Memorial Scholarship was es-

tablished in memory of Darrin Williams, a 1988 SMC graduate who was highly regarded by both faculty and students of the math/science department, Dr. Howell said. The $200 scholarship is given to a second-year student who is transferring to a four-year program.

Oldenburg exemplifi ed the intent of the scholarship by her service to the department, integrity, coopera-tion, and a sense of humor.

Oldenburg, 19, a Constantine High School graduate, plans on pursuing a degree in chemical engineering at Western Michigan University. She graduated with an Associate in Science from SMC.

Krueger, 18, was a dual-enrolled student at SMC and Dowagiac Union High School. She will graduate from Dowagiac on June 3 and plans to attend Michi-gan Technological University in the fall to study civil engineering with a math/science minor. She earned 41 college credits while attending SMC.

The Southwester Page 9CAMPUS NEWSMay 25, 2012

Campus Bash Spring 2012PHOTOS BY DENNIS HAFER

Page 10 The Southwester CAMPUS NEWS May 25, 2012

Southwestern Michigan College’s Fine Arts De-partment presented merit and scholarship awards to outstanding fi ne art students at SMC’s

Student Art Show in April. The show was judged by Darren Smith, a painter and SMC alumnus. SMC President Dr. David Mathews gave out the awards to students.

A $300 scholarship, the Mina Award, was given to Jessika Clement for her advanced drawing piece. Robert Mitchell received the coveted ‘Pfl iger Award’ for his photograph, “Fresh Money.” Mitchell received a toaster and a check for $49.95 from the Pfl iger Foun-dation

“We give this award to a piece of work that would look nice on our wall,” said Terry Pfl iger, SMC art in-structor.

Pfl iger also awarded a toaster to Courtney Bogen for her work.

Glen Ditz was recognized by his peers for his work in ceramics and was honored by Sherri Styx, ceramics instructor. Troy Foreman won the raffl e drawing for the mat cutter.

Winter art students honored for their work

The Southwester Page 11CAMPUS NEWSMay 25, 2012

Winter Fine ArtsJudge’s Merit Awards

2-D Design: Marci Summons.

Advanced Ceramics: Glen Ditz, Amber Fries, and Cheri Reeves.

Advanced Drawing: Kristin Armstrong, Kyle James, and Shannon Strock.

Advanced Photography: Elisabeth Gokey.

Ceramics: Kierslyn Heshberger.

Ceramics II: Fawn Roberts and Rosaleen Sullivan.

Digital Photography: Jordan Hurst, Nolan Kahne, and Jennifer Olszewski.

Graphic Design II: John Crothers, Jeff Platt, and Dominic Rappelli.

Photographic Design: Olivia Casasanto, Shana Chrismon, and Sara Merrills.

Typography in Design: Kortney Huston, Rick Pasley, and Tanner Russell.

Watercolor: Elizabeth Allen, Robert Mitchell, and Melissa Otten.

learn typing and computer skills before enrolling at SMC in the fall 2010. At the start of each new class, he would tell instructors that he “didn’t need a handout.” He learned about the skeleton in biol-ogy by feeling each bone. He received help through the college’s Special Populations offi ce that provides testing accommodations, adaptive equipment, and other assistive technology to persons with disabili-ties.

Students, while hesitant at fi rst, have come to know Hood as a person rather than someone with a disability.

“People who have a disability shouldn’t be grouped,” Hood said. “When they think I have a physical disability, they are really dissing my abili-ties.”

According to Susan Sullivan, coordinator of Special Populations at SMC, “Allen has been a role model for some of our younger students with dis-abilities and he has provided hours of support to a group of young men who have benefi tted from his encouragement and training,” said Sullivan, who was also Hood’s academic adviser. “When he teaches

them how to be organized or how to study he has their full attention and respect. He will be missed greatly when he graduates, but he will make a fi ne counselor or social worker. We are grateful for the time he has given us!”

In his fi rst three semesters, Hood acquired a 3.97 grade-point-average and last fall he completed an internship in the Special Populations offi ce to fulfi ll a fi eld experience required for an Associate in Ap-plied Science degree in social work, which he will fi nish this fall.

Sullivan was so impressed with Hood and his determination that she nominated him for the Post-Secondary Student Award through the Michigan Occupational Special Populations Association. Hood will receive the award, which is given annually to an outstanding student in an occupational program, at the association’s annual conference in Bay Harbor, Michigan on May 10.

“My life has always been about work, but I also enjoyed helping others and, when I lost my sight, it was all taken away,” Hood said. “I have since realized that there are a lot of ways I can make a difference.”

FROM PAGE 1 HOOD

Congratulations 2012 SMC Graduates!Niles

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEAndrew Cox, honorsFawn FisherElisabeth HendrickLeslie Hopper, honorsAndrew MalloAshley Olson, honorsEmily Sossoman, honorsAndrew VillaCody Williams, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCECaleb AdamsHope AshimweMaria ButtsDestyni CarbonStephani Cashier-RodriguezTaelyn Cassiday, honorsKelly Courtney, honorsGary Crouch, honorsJoshua Curtis, honorsPatrick FisherAmanda FreezeKyle Garlanger, honorsJessica HolmesBarbara HolycrossJames JoynerSarah JoynerJulie KaterJoseph KelleyPaula Kendall, honorsTyreta LeeCora LolmaughKyle MalottLynzy Manaloto, honorsKathy Mankowski, honorsJustin MillerRobert Mitchell, honorsKylee MuddNicholas MusserLizette MyersBenjamin RichardsonBonnie Roberts, honorsSteven Rolston, honorsPhilip Shirk, honorsDavid SierraKatie SmallwoodCharles SmithEmily Sossoman, honorsRaegan StricklandNicole SysonErica Thomas, honorsHeather Walker, honorsKristen Werner, honorsRobert WilkenJonathan WilliamsPhilisity Williamson

CERTIFICATENicholas BowkerCaitlin BradyTaelyn CassidayAmy CavanaughCara CoryellKelly CourtneyKarla DennisPatrick FisherLeonina Griffi nJessica HolmesAshley KnightAmy KonopinskiChelsey Manis

Kylee MuddBrooke OlsonRobin PaganoDavid ReclaBonnie RobertsSteven RolstonPhilip ShirkLance ShortmanBonnie TempleRoberta Winn

Paw Paw

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEHannah HensonChristina MorrisChad Sinkler

CERTIFICATESunny Mercie

Portage

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCERachel Johnston, honors

Schoolcraft

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Lexis Peoples

Sodus

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Melissa Mauchmar, honors

CERTIFICATEMelissa Mauchmar

Stevensville

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEKayla Matheny

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJacob Roy, honors

St. Joseph

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Amanda Barber, honorsAndrea DienesBrittney GardNolan KahneBrandi ParkerAssociate in ScienceElizabeth Drenth, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCELauren AnkliCraig BickettMelody Smith

CERTIFICATEAmanda BarberBrittney Gard

Three Oaks

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Bryan BrinkmanRichard LewisDeanna Phillips, honorsStephanie Sexton, honors

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEDaniel Alden, honors

CERTIFICATEBryan BrinkmanDeanna Phillips

Three Rivers

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Grace AshenfelterRebecca Hall-LueggeCraig HamiltonChelsea Thompson, honors

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEKyle Rose

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCERebecca Hall-Luegge

CERTIFICATEErica Reynolds

Union

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Shirley Hood, honors

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEAileena Fager, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJulie GangloffShelly LaPorteMary Maynard, honors

CERTIFICATEMegan BakerAngela Happner

Vandalia

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Cortney Ramsey, honors

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJohn CrothersJoshua DeubnerLarry Hickman

Vicksburg

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCE Lauren Mollitor

White Pigeon

ASSOCIATE IN ARTS Arica Freshour, honors

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEKylie Oldenburg, honors

Whitmore Lake

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJessica Bielinski, honors

INDIANA

Bristol

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEJennifer Nissley, honors

CERTIFICATEJennifer Nissley

Elkhart

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSThomas ArmstrongStephen KaranjaCharlene Siberry

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEElizabeth Allen, honorsStephen KaranjaKevin Kruyer, honors Lauren Strock, honors

CERTIFICATEKevin Kruyer

Goshen

CERTIFICATEMonique Triplett

Granger

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSKristina Carroll, honorsJoseph Sieber

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEKelsey Wassenhove

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEAngela Lewis, honorsKathleen Seel, honorsRebecca SeelLaura Stuart

CERTIFICATEAngela LewisHolly Mueller

Middlebury

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSAmanda Huff, honors

Mishawaka

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSBrittany Hatfi eld

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEKaren Callaway, honorsTroy ChanceModester Chatta, honorsKristi JacksonShawna Kellogg, honorsJoseph Muriithi

Osceola

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSRachel Stanley

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCELaurium Carter, honors

CERTIFICATERachel Stanley

South Bend

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSKimberly BillingsHannah Marquardt, honorsSarah MarquardtTanner Russell

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCEMarisia PulkowskiPatricia Saggia

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEValerie Akeyo, honorsKayleigh KochmarPaul Martinczak, honors

CERTIFICATEHannah MarquardtMarisia PulkowskiRyan Weinzetl

OUT OF STATE

GEORGIA

CERTIFICATECynthia Crane

INTERNATIONAL

ASSOCIATE IN ARTSChifundo Mmadi (Canada)Ann Mutahi, honors (Kenya)Elaine Ndinda (Kenya)

ASSOCIATE IN SCIENCESamuel Kwarteng, honors (Ghana)John Muturi (Kenya)Ann Mutahi, honors (Kenya)Elaine Ndinda (Kenya)

ASSOCIATE IN APPLIED SCIENCEKeziah Mwangi (Kenya)Emmanuel Runana (United Republic of Tanzania)

Twenty-fi ve Bachelor of Science degrees from Ferris State University at Southwestern Michigan College were awarded May 5.

Graduates from the cooperative bachelor’s degree program through Bethel College received their degrees during the commencement ceremony on the college’s Mishawaka, Ind. campus.

ACCOUNTANCY BarodaBenjamin Gusse (Cum Laude)Berrien SpringsRoger EdingtonRhoda Nyangulu BuchananChristina BradfordAaron Parm (Cum Laude)CassopolisSonja Lenox (Summa Cum Laude)EdwardsburgCasandra Pierucki (Magna Cum Laude)Elkhart, IndianaStephen Karanja (Cum Laude)NilesAngel BrownAndrea Groote (Summa Cum Laude)Danette Narregan (Summa Cum Laude)Anna VanDerbeck

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATIONBerrien SpringsJessica Emhoff (Cum Laude) DowagiacSusan BaroiChristopher GrantJonesLina Pitchford

NilesCanaan JonesKyle Low (Cum Laude)Garnaud Ntaganda (Cum Laude)Jeffrey Peterson

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION WITH PROFESSIONAL TRACKSNiles Charles Jones

COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMSNilesMichael Linback Jr. (Magna Cum Laude)St. JosephSean Anderson (Cum Laude)

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATIONEau ClaireGuadalupe Blanco (Magna Cum Laude)

HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENTKalamazooJessica Conklin

CERTIFICATE IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSDowagiacChristopher GrantNilesCanaan Jones

Ferris State University at SMC

Page 12 The Southwester GRADUATION 2012 May 25, 2012

FROM PAGE 2 GRADS

Allen Hood, a May Southwestern Michigan College graduate, went on the college’s Key West trip this past March to work on some of his independence skills. With the help of other students on the trip, he rode a bicycle for the fi rst time since becoming blind in 2009.