review - davenport university review_fall...review davenport university fall 2010 • volume 3, no 2...

REVIEWDAVENPORT UNIVERSITY

FALL 2010 • VOLUME 3, No 2

Robert W. Sneden Center OpensProud Moment for the Davenport University Community and Sneden Family

www.davenport.edu2

Message from the President

REVIEWFALL 2010

Growing from a firm foundationA little over a year ago I arrived at Davenport with an admiration for this fine institution along with a vision for the future. What I did not have at the time was a personal history with this university.

Today I have a deep appreciation for where Davenport has already been and I’m more energized than ever about where we’re going as a university. Working with an excellent board and a dynamic staff, together we have created a bold Vision 2015 that builds on our strong heritage.

This year we are celebrating the 100-year an-niversary of the arrival of a young instructor named M.E. Davenport who led the university into a new era of growth and prosperity. In September, we dedicated the Robert W. Sneden Center, named for M.E. Davenport’s son-in-law and eventual suc-cessor as President of Davenport.

I was touched by comments made at the dedication ceremony by Peggy Sneden Moceri, representing the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Robert W. Sneden. They still have a strong affection for and connection to this university, and it was their generosity that led to the $2.5 million donation from the M.E. Davenport Foundation toward the naming of the center.

Board Trustee Wilbur Lettinga shared how Bob Sneden helped him get a job do-ing the books for a gas station, propelling him into starting his own accounting business and paving the way for a long and rewarding relationship with the university over the decades since. Chancellor Emeritus Donald W. Maine spoke glowingly of the man who was his long-time mentor, role model and fishing partner.

As we work toward achieving our bold Vision 2015, we have taken a closer look at our brand – which articulates our promise to you and to our students – and I’m pleased to share that we’ve captured our promise in a new tagline that you’ll be seeing in our advertising and communications starting this month: “Get where the world is going.”

We’re proud to share how our rich history is contributing to our bold Vision 2015. We remain grateful for your support and invite your active participation with us as we get where the world is going.

Sincerely, Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D. President

CONTACT US

Office of AdvancementDennis WashingtonExecutive Vice President for [email protected]

Dr. Barbara MierasExecutive Vice President for Major [email protected]

Lu CavenaughDirector of Grant [email protected]

Kaylen WilliamsDirector of Annual [email protected]

Catherine RoggDirector of Alumni [email protected]

Jason MaddenAlumni Relations [email protected]

Carol DistelAlumni Relations [email protected]

Julie VugteveenExecutive Administrative [email protected]

University Relations and CommunicationsKim BruynExecutive Vice President for University Relations and [email protected]

Robin Luymes, APRExecutive Director of University [email protected]

Rick JensenNews Information [email protected]

Sasha Vander LugtSocial Media [email protected]

Onlinedavenport.edu/DUReview

facebook.com/DUAlumni

twitter.com/DUAlumniJason

flickr.com/DavenportUniversity

youtube.com/DavenportWeb

Davenport University ReviewOffice of Advancement 6191 Kraft Ave. Grand Rapids, MI 49512

DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW is published quarterly by Davenport University, 6191 Kraft Avenue, Grand Rapids, MI 49512

www.davenport.edu

Robert W. Sneden Center dedicated

The Davenport University community celebrated yet another milestone with the dedication of the Robert W. Sneden Center on Sept. 14. More than 200 attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, including members of the Sneden family, students, faculty and staff. Presiding over the event was Davenport President Dr. Rick Pappas and Board Chairman Kenneth C. Bovee, who were joined by members of the Davenport Board of Trustees and Foun-dation Board, Chancellor Emeritus Donald W. Maine and CEO of Rockford Companies Mike VanGessel.

Above: Members of the Sneden Family, Davenport University President Dr. Richard J. Pappas, Board Chairman Kenneth C. Bovee and Chancellor Emeritus Donald W. Maine.

www.davenport.eduDAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW4

“Building on a Legacy Campaign” a success!

The Building on a Legacy Campaign for the Robert W. Sneden Center intended to raise an additional $400,000 beyond the M.E. Davenport Foundation lead gift of $2.5 million. Thanks to numerous gifts and pledges, $624,226 has been raised. Here are a few of the special gifts received:

Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga Naming of the 232-seat auditorium

Jim and Joy DeBoer Naming of the conference room in the executive office suite

Lee H. Sneden and Celia Sneden Mumma A gift in honor of Robert W. and Margaret Davenport Sneden to support the university archives

Jim and Clarine Lanting Naming of the conference room within the Admissions and Financial Aid office suite

Chancellor Emeritus Donald W. Maine Naming of conference meeting room number 3

The university is honored to have received a $2.5 million donation from the M.E. Davenport Foundation toward the new facility, which enables DU to further expand student enrollment and services at the W.A. Lettinga Campus and increase access and opportunities for business, education and the greater Grand Rapids community. It will enhance the learning environment for students and also be a valued resource for busi-ness and community organizations.

Robert Sneden became a Davenport faculty member in 1946 and taught math, speech, salesmanship and the Dale Carnegie Course. He was named Executive Vice President in 1952 and President in 1959.

Dr. Richard J. Pappas, Davenport University President

Wilbur A. Lettinga, Past University Board Chairman

Kenneth C. Bovee, University Board Chairman

Top Right: Ceremonial ribbon cutting included (left to right) Wilbur A. Lettinga, University Board Trustee, Mary (Sneden) Sullivan and Marcia Sneden of ME Daven-port Foundation, Kenneth C. Bovee, University Board Chairman, Peggy Moceri, ME Davenport Foundation, Dr. Richard J. Pappas, Davenport University President, Tracy Graham, Vice Chairman of University Board, and Trustees Kenneth Yerrick, Robert Hetzler, James DeBoer and Doyle Hayes.

Below: Davenport University President Richard J. Pappas, Trustees and Sneden family members tour the board room in the new Robert W. Sneden Center.

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Robert W. Sneden

This year marks the 100-year anniver-sary of Michael Edward Davenport’s involvement in what would become Davenport University. Not only was he successful as an instructor, admin-istrator, registrar and recruiter, he also recruited the man who would one day succeed him as President and leader of the university.

While home on leave from the Army in 1942, Sneden went to visit his friend and mentor when he met Davenport’s oldest daughter, Margaret, who worked in the ad-ministrative offices. The couple mar-ried in 1944. Following his discharge from the Army in 1946, Robert Sneden became a Davenport fac-ulty member teaching math, speech, salesmanship and the Dale Carnegie course. In 1959 Robert W. Sneden was named president of Daven-port following the passing of M.E. Davenport. Mr. Sneden served in a distinguished capacity as President until his retirement in 1977.

The legacy of Robert W. Sneden is rich with milestones marked by expanded academic programming, additional campuses, and North Central Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation. President Sneden also was an active partici-pant and leader in numerous busi-ness, professional and education or-ganizations and was recognized with awards for serving with distinction at local and national levels. His passion for education was a hallmark of his life and career. The recognition of Davenport as a community asset and a major provider of the workforce in Michigan and beyond grew signifi-cantly under his leadership.

“We believe Robert Sneden would be incredibly proud that Davenport has continued to build on his legacy to bring the university to where it is today.” - Dr. Richard Pappas

Above: Lettinga Auditorium, guests at the dedication ceremony touring a high-tech classroom and having lunch in one of the meeting rooms.

Visit Davenport’s Flickr page to see more photos from the event.

Visit Davenport’s YouTube page to see video from the event.


NEWSUNIVERSITY

Davenport’s University Relations and Communications team has led the effort to identify the university’s brand and capture it’s promise to students, staff, alumni, donors and employers.

In-depth research and extensive interviews with key stakeholders revealed Davenport’s unique position in the marketplace to be its relentless focus on where the world is going in three future economic drivers – business, health and technology – with a passion to know these markets better than anyone else. Plus, DU’s vision for higher education with programs that are more innovative and responsive, gives our graduates a unique competitive advantage.

This brand promise is captured in the advertising campaign launched this month with the new tagline: “Get where the world is going.”

“While other universities offer learning about where the world has been, Davenport University seeks to know where the world is going,” said Kim Bruyn, executive vice president for university relations and com-munications. “Our drive to know the marketplace better than anyone else offers our students a competitive edge that is truly unique to DU.”

Brand promise: Get where the world is going

After more than 70 years of combined service, Dr. Tim Mulder and Dr. Dave Sellars retired from Davenport University.

A past recipient of the Tyrus R. Wessell Award for outstanding contributions to the university, Professor Tim Mulder taught accounting foundations and cost account-ing. He excelled in his commitment to students and contributed all proceeds from his practice set, “AC Speed Corporation,” to provide scholarships for Accounting Honors students. Active in the American Accounting Association and the Accounting Educa-tion Change Commission, Mulder co-authored Intentional Learning: A Process for Learning to Learn in the Accounting Curriculum (http://aaahq.org/aecc/intent/cover.htm).

Professor Dave Sellars, another Tyrus R. Wessell Award winner, was originally hired to teach math and Introduction to Business. Most students eventually came to know him as their professor of marketing and coordinator of the marketing program. An au-thor, Sellars’ most recent book, Business Plan Project, was published in January by Business Expert Press. Over the years, his books have sold more than 40,000 copies. During his tenure, Sellars earned the Outstanding Faculty Award for his teaching.

Two long-time faculty members retire

Top left: Professor Tim Mulder, Bottom Left: Professor Dave Sellars

Visit Davenport’s YouTube page to see our most recent ads.


NEWS

This summer, Davenport University made G.I. Jobs’ 2011 list of Military Friendly Schools. Every year, the list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools that are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students.

As a military friendly school, Davenport offers a 25 to 100 percent reduction in tuition costs for all active duty military and veterans, plus their spouses and depen-dents. In addition, Davenport allows its students to conveniently obtain their degree online. Several students are currently taking online classes with Davenport while deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Due in part to the many benefits DU extends that enhance existing GI Bill features, veteran enrollment has increased 16 percent at Davenport in the past year. To keep up with the needs of the military and veteran population at the university, there is a designated support staff to help with the various needs of these students. There also are military and veteran admissions representatives and military-specific academic advisors on hand to help military personnel go through the steps of begin-ning and succeeding in their academic careers.

Another form of support for veterans at Davenport is the newly founded Stu-dent Veterans of America (SVA) chapter, started by DU student and Iraq war vet-eran Brandon Mikowsi.

“The primary purpose of the SVA is to better educate our veterans on pro-grams they are entitled to,” says Mikowski. “By creating this group, we’re offering people with the same interests and experiences a place to meet.”

Mikowski’s hope is that this Congressionally authorized veterans group will not only help educate veterans on the benefits they’re entitled to, but help with the hard-ships of transitioning from combat to the classroom.

Davenport University listed as a “Military Friendly School”

To keep up with the needs of the military and veteran population at the university, there is a designated support staff to help with the various needs of these students.

Brandon Mikowsi, DU student, Iraq war veteran and founder of DU’s Student Veterans of America chapter.


Davenport University’s W.A. Lettinga Campus welcomed more than 300 incom-ing first-year students during its annual Panther Prowl on Aug. 25. The program to welcome freshmen and help with this important life transition began with an official move-in day where members of the university’s cheer team, alumni and residence hall staff helped new Panthers move into South Hall. New students then headed off to informational seminars with the express purpose of helping them achieve academic success, get involved in the campus community and develop leadership and life skills.

New students then had the opportunity to get to know future classmates through fun events and ice-breakers such as the drive-in movie night on the turf field and a game night in the Student Center. The Panther Prowl series of events concluded with students giving back to the community with a clean-up opportunity at Jaycee Park in Kentwood.

Panther Prowl welcomes incoming freshman

Incoming students check into South Residence Hall on the W.A. Lettinga Campus.



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Registered Student Organizations

Academic • Business Professionals of America (BPA)/Warren

Campus• Club 3.14/Lansing Campus• Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO)/W.A.

Lettinga Campus• Delta Epsilon Chi (DEX)/W.A. Lettinga Campus• E.M.B.R.A.C.E./W.A. Lettinga Campus• Health Information Management and Technology

Student Association (HIMTSA)/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Legal Assistants Club/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Medical Assisting Club/Saginaw Campus• Nursing Association/W.A. Lettinga and

Midland Campuses• Odyssey of the Mind/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM)/

W.A. Lettinga and Lansing Campuses• Student Organization for the Advancement of

Biometrics/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Technology Club/Warren Campus

Service• Alternative Spring Break (ASB)/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Circle K/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Community Action Team (CAT)/Flint Campus• Connect/W.A. Lettinga campus• Holland PeaceJam/Holland Campus• R.E.A.C.H/Flint Campus• 70 Nichols/Livonia Campus

Social• Bass Fishing Team/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Black Student Union (BSU)/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Climber’s Association of Davenport (CLAD)/

W.A. Lettinga Campus• College Republicans/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Global Student Organization (GSO)/

W.A. Lettinga Campus• Hall Advisory Team (HAT)/W.A. Lettinga Campus• Student Activities Committee (SAC)/

W.A. Lettinga Campus• Wrestling Organization/W.A. Lettinga Campus

Special Interest• Student Veterans of America at Davenport University/

W.A. Lettinga Campus

New DU students participating in Panther Prowl on the W.A. Lettinga Campus and watching a movie together on the turf field.


Preparation for success in today’s global workforce means acquiring the combina-tion of knowledge, skills and attitudes often referred to as “global competencies.” Students must become knowledgeable about other countries, develop cross-cultural communication skills, and acquire the sensitivity that enables them to appreciate and work with diverse cultures. One of the best ways to become more globally com-petent is to experience day-to-day life in another country with the preparation and guidance that enables insights and understanding.

“Employers surveyed indicate they are interested in graduates that can think globally,” said Alan Walczak, director of international programs. “The best way for a student to understand what those words even mean is to participate in a study abroad program.”

Davenport University provides these kinds of opportuni-ties through its study abroad program, enabling students to study anywhere in the world from three weeks to one year. Students can study finance in London, experience 5,000 years of tradition in China, tour multinational corporations in Ger-many, learn about global economics amid the diverse flora and fauna in Kenya, or learn Spanish in Costa Rica.

“To use the cliché line that going to China was the expe-rience of a lifetime is a vast understatement,” said Meghan Edgerie, an accounting major at Davenport. “It was so much more than that. It was an experience I wanted to learn and grow from, but I never expected it to become such a perma-nent part of my life. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss it or think about going back.”

Fast factsSome fast facts about the globalization of today’s busi-

ness environment include:

• 72% of business leaders urge colleges and universities to pay greater attention to global issues (Association of American Colleges & Universities, 2006)

• The number of globalized workers – those who make products and services for export or cross borders for work – has quadrupled since 1980 (PPI Trade Fact of the Week, 20-7)

• U.S. students studying abroad have increased by 150% over the past decade (Institute of International Educa-tion, 2008)

Davenport’s international programs will continue to ex-pand into areas that will be relevant to all students. Whether their interest is in medical spanish, international business, or simply to understand other people and perspectives, study abroad is something all students should consider.

Study Abroad program helps students think globally

DU students crossing the equator in Kenya, and posing at London Bridge in the summer of 2009.


New website brings DU athletics to youDavenport University’s Athletics department launched a new website that enhances the experience for all Panther fans and alumni. New features include heightened interac-tive capabilities, online polls, photo galleries and an online store for purchasing Panther athletic gear.

“It was our goal to bring the Panther athletic programs to life for students and for our alumni and fans across the state of Michigan,” said Paul Lowden, director of athlet-ics. “We’ve experienced a tremendous success with our teams over the past few years and we hope to share that with all of our fans.”

The new site provides live stats for games in progress as well as opportunities to experience game action in audio and video. Also, a “student athlete of the week” is fea-tured on the homepage and highlighted for his or her outstanding achievements.

Visit dupanthers.com soon to experience the new site and see your Davenport University Panthers in action!

Davenport makes move to Midwest Rugby Union D1Based on the success of its team the past few years, Davenport University has been elevated to the Midwest Rugby Union’s Division 1 for 2010-11. The university also will continue to sponsor a Division 2 program competing against many traditional rivals.

The promotion to D1 was made by the Union despite Davenport’s 17-22 loss in its challenge match with Miami (Ohio) last April. The Davenport side will face off against league foes Purdue, Indiana, Bowling Green and Miami (Ohio). It also will play a non-league game with Wisconsin. While Ohio State and Notre Dame also are part of the D1 Eastern Conference, they will participate in the newly formed USA Rugby College Premier League and not be eligible to advance in D1 playoffs.

Davenport’s new team, meanwhile, will compete in a Michigan-based D2 league consisting of the University of Michigan, Michigan State, Central Michigan, Western Michigan, Grand Valley State and Ferris State.

www.davenport.edu12 DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW

IMPACTDONOR

Giving at Every Stage in LifeYou can help Davenport University achieve its mission to prepare individu-als and organizations to excel in the knowledge-driven environment of the 21st century through deferred and estate plan gifts. When you remember Daven-port University in your will or trust, you join the many supporters of the Daven-port Legacy Club that allows the Uni-versity to thank donors today for the gifts of tomorrow.

It’s important to know that there are many options for planned gifts at every stage in life. These gifts not only lead to significant benefits for the future of Dav-

enport University, but can provide you with considerable personal benefits.

CareerWhether you are just beginning your career or are closer to retirement, it’s important you are well informed about planned giving options that make sense for you. A few to consider:

Charitable bequest – This is a gift made through your will. There are many types of bequests to help you meet your philanthropic goals. Talk with your at-torney about your options.

Life insurance policies – The proceeds of your life insurance policies

are payable to the beneficiaries you’ve named under the options you selected in your policies. You can specify that Dav-enport receive a percentage of the ben-efits or name the university as a primary or contingent beneficiary.

Deferred gift annuity – A deferred gift annuity is funded with cash or stock that is exchanged for the organization’s promise to pay the annuitant(s) income at a future date. At the death of the last annuitant, the remainder goes to the organization. This is a good option for those in the mid- to mature stage of their careers. These individuals benefit the most from receiving an immediate chari-

table deduction and can use the future annuity payments as a way to increase their retirement income.

Transitioning to RetirementThere are several options to help you achieve charitable giving goals during this time period, including:

Charitable gift annuity – This giv-ing vehicle is similar to the deferred gift annuity, but the annuitant(s) start receiv-ing payments at the end (or the begin-ning) of the payment period immedi-ately following the contribution. Again, the annuitant(s) benefit by receiving a charitable deduction and can use the

payments to supplement their income.Other options include trusts, gifts

of appreciated stock or bonds, bequests and beneficiary designations. If you have questions, contact your financial advisor, attorney, and the Office of Advancement.

RetirementIn retirement you will want to regularly monitor your financial plans to make sure personal goals are being met and to determine whether philanthropic pri-orities have remained the same. Sound planning greatly affects the impact of your gifts. During this stage in life you can still consider:

Retirement plan assets – After your lifetime, these benefits will be paid to the beneficiaries you have designated in the plan. A beneficiary can include a charitable entity. Beneficiaries who are individuals will be responsible for taxes when they receive the property, while tax-exempt charitable organizations such as Davenport University will not have to pay taxes on the property.

Real estate – Real property (like your house, cottage, condo or com-mercial property) that has been held long-term makes an excellent charitable contribution. You obtain a tax deduction equal to the property’s full fair market value (if held long-term) instead of the lower cost basis and you avoid capital gains tax on the property’s appreciation.

If you remember DU in your will or trust, you leave a legacy that proclaims your belief that will continue to do work that you will value far into the future. To learn more about making a gift through your will or trust, please contact Dennis C. Washington, Executive Vice President

Leaving a legacy at Davenport University

When you remember Davenport University in your will or trust, you join the many supporters of the Davenport Legacy Club that allows the University to thank donors today for the gifts of tomorrow.


for Advancement at [email protected] or 616-732-1198, or Dr. Barbara Mieras, Senior Vice President for Major Gifts, at [email protected] or 616-233-3413.

You Make a DifferenceThere are several ways to show your support of Davenport University.

Student Gift: Make a donation to student scholarships at www.davenport.edu/giving or call the Office of Advance-ment at 616-233-3417.

Memorial Gift: Cherish the memo-ry of a loved one by making a contribu-tion to the Davenport University Foun-dation. When a donation is received, the family is notified of your gift.

Tribute Gift: Honor someone who has made a difference in your life like a parent, mentor, professor or friend.

Securities or Stock Gift: Support the Davenport Foundation with a gift of appreciated stock. This option allows you to simultaneously avoid a capital gains tax and take a charitable deduction.

Planned Giving: A planned gift of any size qualifies you for membership in the Davenport Legacy Club, which honors donors who have included DU in their estate plans.

Event Sponsorship: Sponsor or attend one of our annual premier fund-raising events, the Excellence in Business Dinner and the Davenport Scholarship Golf Classic. By sponsoring or attending one of these events, you are able to sup-port student scholarships while also hav-ing a great time.

Volunteer: Mentor a student, volun-teer at an event or help career services by posting your company’s jobs or intern-ships on DUCareerNet.

Stay Connected: Find us online at www.davenport.edu, Facebook or Twit-ter. Update your email address online at www.davenport.edu/update to receive our alumni newsletter.

Davenport University has been part of the downtown Grand Rapids land-scape since 1866, when classes were first taught at Grand Rapids Business College. The last 42 years, Davenport served as the eastern gateway to down-town with its Fulton Street Campus. In June, consolidation of academics was completed at the W.A. Lettinga Campus in Caledonia and the last remaining Davenport employees at Fulton Street moved to new offices.

To help preserve the fond memories of alumni and friends and to recog-nize the leaders and donors who supported Davenport’s long-time home on Fulton, the Fulton Street Memory Garden has been created at the W.A. Let-tinga Campus.

The garden includes engraved bricks from Fulton Street, which were rep-licated and are now a part of the garden walkway. The garden is located in front of the South Residence Hall across from the Fred and Lena Meijer Resi-dence Hall, creating a beautiful green space in the heart of the new campus and providing a relaxing atmosphere for students, faculty, staff and visitors.

Fulton Street Memory Garden revisits DU history


A perfect late August day was the setting for this year’s Davenport Scholarship Golf Classic, held at Egypt Valley Country Club in Ada. It was the most successful Classic in the event’s 24-year history, with nearly 300 registered golfers and more than $100,000 raised to fund Davenport student scholarships.

New record set at Scholarship Golf Classic

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15DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW

Special thanks to our major sponsors!

Integrated Architecture Event Sponsor

Kentland Communities Dinner Sponsor

Michigan Office Solutions Lunch Sponsor

Harder and Warner Landscaping Cart Sponsor

Rockford Construction Scorecard/Course Sponsor

Henry and Carolyn Bouma Scoring Sponsor

Fifth Third Securities Putting Green Sponsor

West Side Beer Distributing Beverage Sponsor

Division Winners Open Division – Score of 53 Art Bott Nick Boone Scott Bylsma Chuck Rapolevich

Mixed Division – Score of 65 Jeff Zylstra Kevin Phillips Christine Marcy Richelle Kruger Senior Division – Score of 63 Dennis Gillett Craig Timmerman Steve Penning Paul Davis

“This is something I really believe in,” said Steve Axdorff, senior loan offi-cer for Founders Bank and Trust. “I’m an alumnus of Davenport and its help in moving me from one career into another was a life-changing experience.”

“An important part of our vision for 2015 is access for our students,” said Larry Polselli, executive vice president for enrollment and student de-velopment. “The scholarship dollars raised are a great benefit to students who cannot fully afford college but who are otherwise qualified to be very successful at university.”

“We are sincerely grateful to all of our sponsors for their generous contribu-tions,” said Dennis Washington, executive vice president for advancement. “All proceeds go toward funding scholarships. Those who were unable to participate this year and would like to make a donation to help can contribute at www.davenport.edu/giving.”

Davenport University President Dr. Richard J. Pappas and Executive Vice President of Advancement Dennis Washington speaking to the golfers; Jeff Zylstra, Richelle Kruger and Kevin Phillips posing for a photo; Wilbur and Sharon Lettinga. Left: A foursome of DU alumni and students ready to do some golfing!




Jim Lanting has been connected to the university in one way or another for more than 50 years. An established businessman, having owned and operated motels, condos, mobile home parks and a bowling alley, Lanting also is the founder and president of Aspen Enterprises Limited.

Over the years, Jim and his wife Clarine have donated generously to numer-ous Davenport projects, such as the Welcome Center at the former Fulton Street Campus, the Jim and Clarine Lanting Meeting Halls in the Richard M. DeVos and Jay Van Andel Academic Building and, most recently, the Robert W. Sneden Center. In 1990, the Lantings established the James R. and Clarine L. Lanting Expression of Gratitude Scholarship to Davenport students with financial needs.

How did you get involved with DU?After serving in the Korean War and being discharged in December of ’51, I was determined to get an education. I looked in the Grand Rapids area for a business school and that’s how I happened upon Davenport University. At the time, I was getting paid $135 a month from the GI Bill and that’s how much Davenport cost. I went 36 consecutive months and came out with an accounting degree.

Why do you support DU?I support Davenport because of the good education. Throughout the years, I’ve stayed close to the friends I graduated with and I just got involved with every-thing Davenport-related. I was on the foundation board and on the board of trustees. In 1987, I received the Distinguished Alumni Award and in 2007 I got an honorary doctorate of law from Davenport. I’ve had a lot of association with the school throughout the years. It seems as if I’ve been going to school at Davenport since 1955.

Why do you feel the need to give back to DU?I don’t really feel the need to give back. I just want to give back. My education at Davenport was exactly what I needed. The fellowship of the people I got to know there really helped me through life and I just feel very close to everyone there and that in turn made me feel close to Davenport. I just wanted to be a part of it. It was just a natural thing for me to give back.

What are your hopes for the future of Davenport University?I just hope it continues to grow as it has with the fine leadership that is there now. The school has just grown so much lately. I hope they continue to do that with the quality faculty and personnel so that it will eventually be known nationally.

Q & A with donor Jim Lanting

“I don’t really feel the need to give back. I just want to give back. My education at Davenport was exactly what I needed.” Jim Lanting

Jim and Clarine Lanting have donated generously to numerous Davenport projects, most recently the Robert W. Sneden Center.


Thanks to our donors, again, Davenport University was able to prepare students for in-demand careers in our emerging economy and serve as a significant asset to em-ployers and communities across Michigan and beyond. Those who contributed to the Davenport Fund helped hundreds of students attend DU who otherwise would not have had the means to pay for their education.

Through these difficult economic times, students need your support more than ever before. Please consider mak-ing a tax-deductible gift by Dec. 31. As always, 100 per-cent of your contribution will go toward student scholar-ships – no administrative expenses are ever deducted from your gifts to Davenport University.

You also can contribute by attending or sponsoring one or more of the following events. We invite you to save the dates for:

Support the Davenport Fund today for brighter futures tomorrow

14th Annual Excellence in Business DinnerMay 6, 2011: DeVos Place, Grand Rapids

25th Annual Davenport Scholarship Golf Classic Aug. 22, 2011: Egypt Valley Country Club, Ada

For ways you can give, watch your mail, email Kaylen Williams at [email protected] or call the Advancement Office at 616-233-3417.

Your support is deeply appreciated!

Shop 24/7 DUspirit.com

Students, Alumni, Friends and Fans A place everyone can call home


NEWSALUMNI

Each year the Davenport University Alumni Association honors extraordinary gradu-ates at the Alumni Awards banquet. This year, alumni and friends gathered to cel-ebrate the accomplishments of four deserving graduates on Friday, Oct. 15, at Kent Country Club.

The highest award that Davenport University bestows on its graduates, the Dis-tinguished Alumni Award, was established in 1974 to recognize exceptional graduates who represent the university’s mission and ideals. This year’s recipient is Mark Peters (’93, accounting).

To “Enrich Lives” is Mark’s personal passion and it also is the mission state-ment for Butterball Farms, where Mark serves as Chief Executive Officer. Mark has enriched many lives through his community service and strives to have every employee and the larger community share this mission.

Mark is involved in a number of non-profit organizations and is focused on those that provide community development through services or education. He cur-rently serves as Board Chairperson for In The Image and also serves on the boards of The Potter’s House Foundation, Grand Rapids Initiative for Leaders (GRIL), Reentry Employment Resource Center (RERC) and Kent/Allegan Workforce Development

2010 alumni awards banquet honors successful graduates

Save the date!

Young Alumni – join your DU colleagues at the Grand Rapids Art Museum (GRAM) for cocktails, conversation and a peek at the Princess Di exhibit.

Thursday, Jan. 27, 2011 5:30-7:30 p.m.

For more information or to RSVP visit dualum.com/GRAM.


NEWSBoard. In 2001, Mark was instrumental in organizing a group of committed business-men and community leaders to form The SOURCE, a coalition of local businesses, non-profit service providers and state agen-cies to centralize services in Grand Rapids.

Bill Lettinga (’78, business manage-ment), Jeffrey Richter (’88, accounting & computer programming), and Brian Hogan (’91, sales & marketing) all received the Hy Berkowitz Professional Excellence Award, which is given annually to DU gradu-ates with exceptional professional and personal accomplishments.

In addition to being President of Kentland Corporation – a company founded by his father, distinguished alumnus and Davenport Trustee, Wilbur Lettinga – Bill Lettinga serves as the current Executive Board Chair of the Michigan Manufactur-ing & RV Association, Trustee of the Davenport University Foundation Board and chairman of the Davenport Scholarship Golf Classic Committee.

Jeff Richter graduated cum laude from Davenport in 1988 with dual degrees in Accounting and Computer Programming. He currently is Vice President at Dekker Bookbinding, a company specializing in hardcover bookbinding serving book printers from coast to coast and also is Vice President of Hi-Tech Building Services, a janitorial service, with fellow award recipient, Brian Hogan.

Brian, president of Hi-Tec Building Services, said he chose Davenport for three reasons. “One, DU was hands down the best in my chosen field of study (sales and marketing); two, my mother graduated from Davenport in 1953; and three, I knew that Davenport was the most prestigious of my choices.” Brian graduated from Dav-enport in 1991 with a degree in Sales and Marketing. Together, Brian and Jeff have sponsored the track in the Student Center at Davenport’s W.A. Lettinga Campus.

If you know Davenport University alumni with notable achievements in their professions and who continue to strive for excellence, you can nominate them for one of next year’s awards at www.dualum.com/awards.

Bill Lettinga (’78, business management), Jeffrey Richter (’88, accounting & computer programming), and Brian Hogan (’91, sales & marketing) all received the Hy Berkowitz Professional Excellence Award.

Bill Lettinga Jeffrey Richter Brian Hogan

Mark Peters, ’93, Accounting, receives the 2010 Distinguished Alumni Award.



The Davenport University Alumni Association hosted several events over the course of the summer. These events are great ways for DU alumni to stay in touch with old friends, meet new friends and network with others for career purposes.

Young alumni wine tasting June 24 marked the official kick-off of the Young Alumni Program. A group of Grand Rapids alums gathered to enjoy wine tasting, great food and music. An international student internship was even made available by one of the guests!

While networking, alums enjoyed a selection of Michigan wines from Brys Estates that were paired with gourmet entrees created by local celebrity chef, Tommy Fitzger-ald. Topping off the night was a private performance by local musician Brian Vander Ark, front man for The Verve Pipe.

Young alumni in DU’s other campus markets are encouraged to form similar groups and should contact Jason Madden at [email protected] or 616-233-2593.

DU @ the ZooMore than 300 alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends attended the DU @ the Zoo family alumni event held on Saturday, June 26, at the Detroit Zoological Society.

Many enjoyed the barbeque picnic under the tent where highlights included a DJ, children’s crafts and the crowd favorite—face painting.

After lunch, alumni and friends toured the zoo while children participated in the scavenger hunt to earn a bag full of prizes from the Alumni Association.

Whitecaps and fireworksDU alums and friends celebrated a night of baseball, food and fireworks on Aug. 18 at Fifth Third Ballpark in Grand Rapids. Although the Whitecaps lost to the Fort Wayne TinCaps by a score of 5-1, it was a winning night for DU as everyone who joined the Alumni Association in the suite had the opportunity to reconnect with

A summer to remember for DU alums!

Above: Brian VanderArk performing for alumni and being introduced by Jason Madden, alumni relations manager; DU alumni and staff with family and friends at DU @ the Zoo in Detroit.




Cathie Rogg, director of alumni relations

Cathie Rogg was recently appointed as DU’s Director of Alumni Relations. She has served as Assis-tant Head of School and Director of Development and Alumni Relations for an independent school in Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan and has directed a development and alumni relations program at a Northern Michigan Community College. With a total of 24 years in education, 17 which were in development and alumni relations, she brings experience and energy to the advancement program. She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree from Central Michigan University.

Jason Madden, alumni relations manager

Jason Madden has been with Davenport for more than five years – serving as the Alumni Relations Manager for the past two. He received his masters in business administration from DU in 2008 and has thoroughly enjoyed his time at Davenport as both a student and an employee. He shares his pas-sion with DU alums and works everyday to enrich the lives of DU students through his outreach. He and his wife, Jennifer, currently reside in East Grand Rapids.

Carol Distel, alumni relations coordinator Carol Distel was born and raised in New York and moved to West Michigan with her family five years ago. She joined Davenport in March of 2009 as the Alumni Relations Coordinator. Prior to coming to DU, Carol worked in human resources and in real estate as well as serving a number of not-for-profits in a volunteer capacity. In her free time, Carol enjoys spending time with her family golfing, traveling and watching college football.

Interact with the Alumni Relations staff on Facebook and Twitter.

Meet the Alumni Relations staff !

Catherine Rogg

Jason Madden

Carol Distel

History – Yours and Ours

When I was in 6th grade, my Uncle Dan was helping me with a history project. In our conversation, he said, “History is ‘his story,’ that is, ‘the story of mankind.’” I loved it, as elementary as it was, because it personalized the subject for me and made me feel a stronger connection to the past.

As I begin as Director of Alumni Relations at Davenport University, I am reminded again of that connection. I have enjoyed reading the History of an Institution – Davenport College by Peggy Sneden Moceri. Davenport University is where it is today due in part to the vision, energy and commitment of its predecessor colleges, the faculty and staff, and the alumni who continue to represent our comprehensive history.

Each alumnus/a, since Grand Rapids Business College was established in 1866, has contributed to their community, their state, our nation and our world in some way. It is our responsibility at DU to remember those contributions and hold in high regard all who have earned certificates and degrees from our beginning.

I watch a new generation of students, both traditional and non-traditional, who have chosen Davenport to prepare themselves for new or changing careers. They will soon join more than 50,000 alumni from our predecessor and current institutions. I am proud to be a part of Davenport University and I look forward to the pleasure of working with you in the upcoming years.

Stay in touch. Let us know what’s new in your lives. Share your ideas for programming. Volunteer in our classrooms. Bring your family and friends to our events. Encourage others to attend Davenport. Our history lays the foundation for the bold new Vision 2015 in which we are all engaged. Join us and continue to be a part of our history – past, present and future.

Best Regards,

Catherine G. Rogg, CFRE, Director of Alumni Relations

22 DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEW www.davenport.edu

Join – it’s free!An Alumni Association Membership Card gives you access to many univer-sity services, including the computer labs, libraries (LInC), and career services at all Davenport campuses. Alumni also receive a 10% discount on all specialty items at the Tyrus R. Wessell bookstore.

To get your card, send an email to [email protected] or call 866-248-0012 with the following information.

• Name as a student (if different than current)

• Address (including city, state, and zip code)

• Phone number • Birth date (assists with verification

of record) • Class year • Degree • Campus and/or predecessor col-

lege you attended

Travel!The following car rental companies offer discounts (from 10-25%) to Davenport alumni: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Destina-tion Europe, Hertz, and National. Also, stay at your choice of a Choice Hotels International accommodation with a 20% discount.

Free classes!As an alumni association member, you also can audit courses you previously passed at Davenport that were part of your graduation requirements – free! To participate, contact an advisor at a cam-pus near you.

Jobs!In addition to services provided at DU-CareerNET, Davenport graduates re-ceive ongoing career and professional support from the Career Services Cen-ter at the campus nearest you. Contact 866-925-3884 for information on Dav-enport University’s life-long career ser-vices, including:

• Resume redesign• Career upgrade and internal pro-

motion assistance• Support during downsizing, re-

structuring, rightsizing or layoff• Relocation job search• Career change assistance and in-

formation about career, network-ing and peer-to-peer events.

Candidates!DUCareerNet has everything you need to connect with the best talent available in business, technology and health, in-cluding interns, career fairs, on-campus recruiting, professional development events, mentoring, networking groups and more. Register now to post your ca-reer and internship opportunities, access resume books and locate excellent candi-dates for the positions you need to fill.

To register, go to the Davenportal (you can access through www.daven-port.edu) and log in with your user-name and password.

Insurance! Davenport University Alumni Associa-tion has partnered with Liberty Mutual to offer our members Group Savings

Plus®. This unique program allows you to purchase high-quality auto, home and renters insurance at low group rates through the convenience of automatic checking account deductions. To see how much you could save, call 800-524-9400 or visit www.libertymutual.com/daven-port to request a free no-obligation quote.

Fitness! Davenport University alumni receive a 50% discount on a fitness center mem-bership in the Student Center on the W.A. Lettinga Campus. The work out facility is state of the art and includes an indoor running track, weight lifting ma-chines and an array of other workout equipment. All you need to do is show your membership card at the door!

Alumni benefits for you!As a graduate of Davenport University or any of its predecessor colleges, you can stay connected with other graduates and enjoy some benefits available to alumni only! The Davenport Alumni Association is your link to the university and to your former classmates, so you’ll always be on top of what’s going on at your alma mater. Anyone who has earned a degree or certificate from Davenport or its predecessors automatically receives free membership to the Alumni Association.

Student Center on the W.A. Lettinga Campus.

23DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY REVIEWwww.davenport.edu

Professional

Seth Thompson, ‘10 BBA in Market-ing, was selected for a full time market-ing position at Gordon Food Service corporate offices as a Product Data Specialist.

Isaac Herrick, ‘09 MBA in Strategic Marketing, accepted a teaching posi-tion at Union High School in Grand Rapids, MI as a high school English teacher.

Mandee Rick, ‘04 MBA, has been se-lected as a 2010 Athena Young Profes-sionals Award Nominee.

Heather Gluszewski, ‘02 BAS Busi-ness, has been selected as a 2010 Athena Young Professionals Award Nominee.

Marriages & Engagements

Tiffany Marie Gothrup, ‘10 BBA Marketing, and Jonathan Bernard married on Oct. 9, 2010.

Nick Fernandez, ‘09 BBA Management, and Betsy Brouwer married on Jan. 23, 2010.

Garrett McGuire, ‘09 BBA Marketing & Advertising, and Ashley Bleibtrey mar-ried on June 5, 2010.

Patrick M. Roersma, ‘07 BBA Man-agement, and Deborah L. Dykhouse will marry on Dec. 4, 2010.

Kimberly Guza, ‘99 AAS Business Ad-ministration, and Jeffery Jameson married on April 10, 2010.

Miles Brandon Mullins, ‘99 BBA Management, and Bobi Jo DeWispelaere married on Aug. 28, 2010.

Births

Amy (Kozlowski) Richardson, ‘98 BS Business, and husband Dale an-nounced the birth of their daughter, Samantha Kaye, on June 2, 2010.

CLASS NOTES

Recently married or have a new baby? Promotion at work or a new job? Are you getting ready to relocate?

Please keep your alumni records updated and share any news with your fellow alumni. Email us at [email protected] (be sure to include your full name, class year, major and location you attended) or log on to:

www.davenport.edu/alumclassnotes

6191 Kraft Ave.Grand Rapids MI 49512

NONPROFIT ORG

US POSTAGE

PAID

SAINT JOSEPH, MI

PERMIT NO. 197

The Office of Alumni Relations invites you to meet President Richard J. Pappas and fellow alumni in Chicago at an after-hours reception.

Date: December 10, 2010 Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Trump International Hotel & Tower Salon III, 17th Floor 401 North Wabash Chicago, IL 60611

Valet parking available.

Register online by December 6, 2010 at www.dualum.com/Chicago2010.

Meet Davenpor t University’sPresident

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