Joan Mandle, executive director of Democracy Matters and professor emeritus of sociology, Colgate University will deliver the 2012 William Weber Lecture in Political Science at Kalamazoo College on October 24 at 8 P.M. The event will take place in the Mandelle Hall Olmsted Room; it is free and open to the public. The title of the lecture is “Who Owns Democracy: The 2012 Elections.” Since 2001 Mandle has directed Democracy Matters, a non-partisan campus-based national student organization committed to and commended for getting big private money out of politics. At Colgate she directed the college’s women’s studies program and founded the college’s Center for Women’s Studies. She has been actively involved with many efforts to reform the political system. Her activism is rooted in her participation as an undergraduate in the civil rights movement and her leadership in both the women’s and anti-Vietnam war movements. Mandle served as campaign manager for Congressman Robert W. Edgar of Pennsylvania’s races for the House of Representatives and the United States Senate. She spearheaded grassroots organizing drives in Oakland and San Francisco that resulted in the successful passage of significant campaign finance reform. Mandle has received widespread recognition for both her academic and political work, including awards from Sociologists for Women in Society (SWS) and the League of Women Voters of Oakland, Calif.
Category: Events
Poet Philosopher Will Read at K
Poet and philosopher and New York Times bestselling author Mark Nepo will give a reading of his works on Tuesday, November 13, at 7 PM in Stetson Chapel at Kalamazoo College. The event is free and open to the public. Nepo will concentrate his reading on his new book Seven Thousand Ways to Listen: Staying Close to What is Sacred, soon to be published to high acclaim. The book explores the many ways we are asked to listen and how they help us to live. According to Nepo, “Listening is the way we befriend the life we’re given. Our friendship with everything larger than us opens us to the wisdom of Source. This is the work of being.” Nepo has taught in the fields of poetry and spirituality for more than 35 years, has published 13 books, and recorded eight audio projects. His books have been translated into 20 languages. Nepo has appeared on television and radio, and his work has been featured or cited in countless print publications.
Border Brujo Returns to K
Performance artist Guillermo Gomez-Pena will do a one-person show titled Return of Border Brujo on Saturday, September 22, at 8 PM in the Nelda K. Balch Playhouse. Tickets are free but are needed for entry and will be available one hour prior to performance in the lobby. The event is part of a series of artistic performances and lectures called “Art, Social Justice, and Critical Theory” which culminates in a spring conference (May 17-18). Gomez-Pena will follow his performance with a post-show talk back, reception, and book signing. The show is presented by the Festival Playhouse Diversity Guest Artist Series and the Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership. The Festival Playhouse 2012-13 season focuses on the theme of fables and fairy tales.
2012 K Convocation Video
A poor weather forecast chased the Sept. 5 opening Convocation of the 2012-13 academic year indoors. But the band played on–literally–in the choir loft, while students and faculty took their seats in Stetson Chapel and their parents took their seats in Dalton Theatre for a video simulcast. Now you can watch the entire colorful ceremony on K YouTube. Let the year begin. Again.
Second Lady Jill Biden Makes Surprise Visit to K
Sophomore Alex Werder received a call from an unrecognized number. The caller simply identified himself as James and asked Werder if he was the person responsible for setting up events on campus. The mystery caller asked to meet the President of the Kalamazoo College Democrats in 15 minutes for a look around K. Werder asked for some credentials before offering the stranger a tour of campus.
James said he was with the Obama Campaign looking for a venue where Vice President Joe Biden’s wife, Jill Biden, could speak in Kalamazoo.
Biden wanted to come to Kalamazoo to address some college students between her other campaign stops in Grand Rapids and Battle Creek. An education advocate, she is the only second lady who has continued to work a full time job out of the White House while her husband serves in office. She currently teaches at Northern Virginia Community College.
“My internal reaction was, ‘Holy crap; this is pretty cool,’” said Werder. The aspiring political science major showed James and two other Obama staffers some possible venues on campus.
Three days later, after a frenzied preparation that included two secret service security sweeps of Hicks with bomb-sniffing dogs, negotiations over the number of allowed guests, furniture arrangement, and last minute invitations, the Stone Room was packed to capacity, mostly with students from K and Western Michigan University, awaiting a speech by the second lady.
Craig Isser ’13 sat among the crowd of about 130 in the sunlit room. Isser had done some research on Biden beforehand, and said he was excited to see a influential person interested in education come to the college.
“She is someone who really is a voice for the students who, and not just a voice,” he said, “She also has power.”
Next to Isser sat Jung Eun Pyeon ’16. She arrived on campus just weeks ago from California’s San Fernando Valley for her first year in college. She said she was still adjusting to campus life when she heard about the event. She plans on studying economics and business, and she is also interested in politics and wants the opportunity to learn more.
“What better chance than to listen to someone of Jill Biden’s stature?” she asked.
Attendees also included three sophomores who live in the Women’s Voice House, a Living Learning Cooperative with a mission of promoting feminist ideas on campus. Katherine Stevenson ’15, Samantha Foran ’15, and Abigail Keizer ’15 said they jumped at the occasion to see a woman in power speak.
“She’s a woman who is very high up, so we’re all excited to see what she has to say,” said Foran.
“She’s still teaching even though her husband is the Vice President,” said Stevenson of the second lady. “That’s really cool to see.”
According to Ms. Biden’s Press secretary, the second lady was grading her students’ papers on the way to the event.
The housemates said they plan on including the content of the second lady’s speech in their weekly dinner discussions.
Besides the K and WMU students, other attendees included Kalamazoo dignitaries and area politicians. Kalamazoo Mayor Bobby Hopewell said Ms. Biden’s visit—her first campaign speech on a college campus—highlights the power and educational focus of the city.
In his introductory remarks, Werder noted that this upcoming election would be the first in which he could eligibly vote, and it would be one he remembers for the rest of his life. “This event combines two of my greatest loves,” he said, “Democratic politics and K.”
Biden recalled her voting for the first time while in college, and said that she voted for her husband, though she didn’t know him at the time.
She gave a student-focused speech, telling the audience the Obama administration will “have your back” if reelected.
“This feels right at home,” she said of campus, “and young people like you inspire me every single day. I often say that my kids are my heroes. And I want you to know that every single day, this administration is really fighting for all of you.”
She closed with a story about a community college student named Angie Flores, who introduced Ms. Biden at the Democratic National Convention.
“In this election,” she said, “we’ve got a choice whether we’re going to tell students like Angie, students like many of you, that ’you’re on your own,’ or whether we’re going to say, ’we’re all in this together, and everyone deserves a fair shot.’”
Biden stayed for a few minutes to shake students’ hands and pose for pictures before rushing off to Battle Creek.
After the crowds cleared and flurry subsided, Werder was smiling.
“It’s all been thrown together in the last 72 hours,” he said, “so it’s been a whirlwind, but we’re all really excited that she took the time and came out to see us.”
Story by Elaine Ezekiel ’13; Photo by Erik Holladay
Welcome Back, Orange-and-Black: Homecoming 2012
Homecoming and Reunion Weekend is October 19-21. Join fellow Hornets on campus for the 8th annual 5K Run/Walk, departmental receptions with current and emeriti faculty, the K versus Hope College football game, and much much more! All alumni, students, faculty, staff, and K friends are invited.
Weekend highlights include:
– Reunion activities for the classes of 1962, 1967, 1972, 1977, 1982, 1987, 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, and a special Emeritus Club celebration
– The 7th annual Farms to K Social
– A student film festival featuring seven documentaries produced in film production classes
– Lunch on the Quad while enjoying the band, Canasta, which boasts some strong K connections
– A special dedication and celebration of the Kalamazoo College Athletic Field Complex
Don’t miss out on K’s biggest event of the year. Check out the Homecoming site to register. If you would like a registration form mailed to you or need assistance with online registration, please contact the Office of Alumni Relations at 269.337.7300.
Memorial Service for Wen Chao Chen
A memorial service to celebrate the life of Wen Chao Chen, one of Kalamazoo College’s most beloved professors and administrators, will be held Sunday Sept. 23 at 2:00 p.m. in Stetson Chapel on the Kalamazoo College campus. Speakers will include Eileen Wilson-Oyelaran, Timothy Light, Jack Hopkins, Joe Fugate, Milt Rohwer, and Alice Chen. A reception in the Hicks Student Center will follow.
Dr. Chen died Aug. 13 at age 92. During his 36-year career with the College, he served as professor of political science, librarian, director of academic services, dean of special services, vice president, acting president, and executive director of the L. Lee Stryker Center. He also held leadership roles in the Kalamazoo community, provided sage advice to many, possessed unfailingly good humor, and played a mean pinball.
Read more about Dr. Chen on the K website. Below are some special memories about this very special man. Leave your comments on K Facebook and at the Langeland Funeral Home online guest book.
Dr. Wen Chao Chen was an extraordinarily loving person. He especially loved Kalamazoo College and the Kalamazoo community. He worked tirelessly for decades to help make each the best it could be. Dr. Chen had a brilliant mind and a gift for bringing people together. He often said he felt fortunate to be embraced by the community, but the people who continue to be touched by his legacy know just how much his life enriched all of ours.
Eileen Wilson-Oyelaran
President, Kalamazoo College
When I first got to K, I went to see every current and retired faculty member. I had scheduled two hours for each. When I was through about thirty minutes with Chen, I cancelled the rest of my appointments. I found him fascinating in spades. He gave me a copy of his autobiography that I took home. I could not put it down: from his childhood in China, to receiving his degrees from America, to his coming to Kalamazoo, to his trying to get a haircut and being told that the shop was closing, to his returning to the shop the next morning to find that the barber was “out to lunch.” From that time on, his wife, Lilia, cut his hair. He was devoted to Kalamazoo College. I considered it an honor to know him. And he provided an example for everyone else to emulate.
James F. Jones, Jr.
President and Trinity College Professor in the Humanities
President, Kalamazoo College, 1996 – 2004
Dr. Chen played a vital role in the early years of my presidency, as I reduced the number of vice presidents and he became the vice president of everything. He had two sayings that I remember well. First was, “President responsible for money and students; faculty and staff do all the rest.” Second comment was that I should always wear the white hat, and he the black hat (an academic version of good cop-bad cop). He will be sorely missed by all of us who knew and worked with him.
David W. Breneman
Newton and Rita Meyers Professor in Economics of Education, University of Virginia
President, Kalamazoo College, 1983 – 1989
When President Jones was ending his tenure as president of K, and I was about to begin my role as acting president, Chen invited us to lunch and presented us with gifts. Jimmy’s was a very elegant farewell gift. Mine was three small refrigerator magnets each about the size of a walnut. They were replicas of warrior masks used in Chinese opera. He noted my puzzled expression as I unwrapped the last one, and then explained these masks would help me ward off the “evil spirits of bad administration.” They were red, yellow, and green, and with a twinkle in his eye he explained the power of each one. I kept them in the president’s desk for that year, looked at them frequently, and often asked what Chen would recommend at that moment. They worked. In the Provost’s Conference Room in Mandelle Hall hangs “Prexie’s Zodiac,” one of my paintings. In it, two of those masks are blown up to life size. They are there as a tribute to Chen—for his valuable guidance to many, his love of K, and his love for all those that make it a jewel. I miss him.
Bernard Palchick
Professor of Art, Emeritus
Acting President, Kalamazoo College, 2004 – 2005
I am one of many whom Chen mentored and whose career he fostered. His remarkable empathy extended to an instinctive knowledge of where the people whom he encountered were in their lives and how to relate to them. His insights were always remarkable and accurate, and his advice invariably wise. He had a unique talent to be fully present in dealing with individuals and also with groups of people. We in Kalamazoo have indeed been blessed by his presence over these 62 years.
Tim Light
Acting President, Kalamazoo College, 1989 – 1990
Dr. Chen was a humble and incredibly effective leader who was fearless and selfless in bringing sometimes contentious constituencies together – on campus or in the community – to find ways to collaborate. His kind, gentle, wise, persistent, caring, and wickedly funny manner defused tensions, minimized differences, led to creative partnerships, and served as an example to everyone blessed with the chance to work with him.
Phil Carra ’69
Kalamazoo College Trustee, Emeritus
I will miss Dr. Chen’s quiet, wise counsel and jovial laugh, both of which I have appreciated in my work with the Michigan Festival of Sacred Music (MFSM). This organization was created largely through his vision: he saw a need to increase community interaction and worked to bring community leaders together to help create MFSM. It is yet another example of his ability to make significant connections, even in his retirement. Perhaps the jovial laugh is my strongest impression of Dr. Chen: I remember it also from when I was a child—he always spent a little time entertaining us kids before joining the adults at parties. We are so lucky to have had him with us in Kalamazoo for so long.
Dr. Elizabeth Start
Executive Director, Michigan Festival of Sacred Music
I never was able to bring myself to call Dr. Chen, “Chen,” as all the faculty did. I just couldn’t do it (and still can’t). One day, Dr. Chen said to me, “You really know you are old when your colleagues call you ‘doctor.’” At the time, Dr. Chen was probably in his mid-50s. He was extremely supportive of me and, I’m sure, other young faculty.
Marigene Arnold
Professor of Sociology and Anthropology, Emerita
Chen liked to play the pinball machines. There was a time when we had some of these machines in the game room and it was not uncommon to see Chen in there testing his skills. But he would also visit off-campus establishments and play. The story circulated on campus that on one such occasion when he was playing off-campus a group of students entered the place and to their amazement found the venerable Dr. Chen merrily banging away on a machine – and of course winning.
Joe Fugate
Professor of German Language and Literature and Director of Foreign Study, Emeritus
I recognize and thoroughly appreciate Chen’s importance to Kalamazoo College and the community. But for me, he was my valued professor and faculty advisor who became my indispensable mentor and counselor for an entire career. Perhaps my fondest recollections of student life at K were the regular meetings of political science majors and faculty members in Chen’s conference room at the library. The discussions he facilitated were undoubtedly the most valuable and enjoyable of my academic experience and that of many peers. After K, he continued to support, prod, and challenge. Two years into my first position, he asked “Are you comfortable in your job?” My response was that I was. His response was, “Time to find new a one!”
Milt Rohwer ’66
Senior Fellow, Center for Michigan
Former President, Frey Foundation
One part of Dr. Chen was shaped by traditional Chinese culture from the 30s-40s; another part was very much tuned into our contemporary U.S. world. Beginning in 1950, he and Elton Ham were colleagues at the College and at the City of Kalamazoo. After Elton died in 1975, Chen said to me “if you ever need or want to work, come and see me.” I did, and worked for and with him from 1978 to 1992 at the L. Lee Stryker Center on various projects: the Business-Academia Dialogue, (a luncheon meeting with area business people, students, and faculty), the Kalamazoo Forum, Council of Governments, a personnel directors monthly luncheon, to name a few. Chen had been conducting a seminar titled Management Development for Women, and one day in the early 80s said: “Caroline, go find out what those women want.” So, I talked to about a dozen women in small business, banks, newspapers, The Upjohn Co., academia, nonprofits. I asked “How did you get where you are, what help did you have, what help could you have used, and what help could you use now?” Thus, the Kalamazoo Network and various courses at the Stryker Center were launched. Chen was a master small “p” politician. His forward looking, community orientation and awareness were a great asset to Kalamazoo College. He was unique.
Caroline R. Ham ’48
City Commissioner and Mayor (1981-83) City of Kalamazoo
Dr. Chen, a deeply humble yet wise man, demonstrated his brilliance daily throughout our community, as he skillfully brought people together even though they would have disparate points of view, political perspectives, and organizational allegiances. Throughout my local career in higher education and community philanthropy, I continually marveled at how Chen could lead community citizens to find a strategic path to solving local problems when all the time he had thoughtfully and perhaps intuitively already conceived of “the way.” This remarkable man remains a Kalamazoo icon. He is clearly beloved by all those he touched, revered by those he personally affected by his focused and visionary example, remembered as a true community servant leader, and loved for his personal sensitivities and humane approach to all peoples. We’ll forever miss Chen and his leadership!
Jack Hopkins
Former Academic Vice President and President (1975-83), Nazareth College
Assistant Director and President, The Kalamazoo Community Foundation (1983-2008)
As a member of Dr. Chen’s home department (Political Science), I was always able to witness up close his love of the liberal arts and of Kalamazoo College. He and I also shared another academic experience: his Ph.D. was from St. Louis University and mine was from Washington University in St. Louis; we would frequently compare notes about our St. Louis activities. Of all my many memories of Dr. Chen, perhaps the most vivid occurred the night that I arrived on campus for my interview as a candidate for a faculty position at Kalamazoo College. He spent the entire evening with me, giving a detailed description of the College and of the Kalamazoo community (including where I would buy my furniture if I came to this city). It was the beginning of a close friendship that would last fifty years.
Donald C. Flesche
Professor of Political Science, Emeritus
Throughout the many years that I worked with Dr. Chen, I came to know him as a man of wisdom, integrity and humility. I especially remember his courageous willingness to speak truth to power when issues of discrimination occurred. He was, of course, widely respected as an outstanding administrator and teacher, but he also served quietly and effectively as tutor and counselor to a host of students and young colleagues, I among them.
Eleanor Pinkham ’48
Director of Libraries and Media Services, Emerita
I was so fortunate to have Dr. Chen as my advisor during my four years at K. No one knew more about the college than Dr. Chen, or could have been more generous with his time despite his very busy schedule. He did not limit his advice to what courses to take, but also gave me advice about life that I appreciate even more today than I did at the time! He was one of the first people to get me interested in a business career. Stepping back from my individual experience, I am in awe of the contributions he made to the college and the community in his many roles.
Gene Bissell ’76
Kalamazoo College Trustee
Dr.Chen was indeed my savior. Not only did I work for him in the library for three years, but he made it possible for me to graduate with my class in the spring of l960. I had more than enough credits, but they did not seem to fall in the right categories. (I thought they did.) He attended the meeting in which it was decided who would graduate on time and who would not. My name came up as a “would not graduate on time” student. He told me about this situation and that he would represent me at the next meeting, which he did handily. Needless to say, I graduated on time, thanks to Dr. Chen.
Ellie (Helfen) Miller ’60
Wen-Chao Chen was the contact person responsible for my joining the faculty some 44 years ago. It was he, along with Paul Collins, who convinced me that K would be a good fit for me, considering my uniqueness. From my interview on, this talented, unique, quiet gentleman appeared to have made it his business to see to it that my being here was a positive experience for the College and me. I thanked him for his personal efforts and he, in his humorous way, said years later, that until I arrived he was the “only colored person on the faculty!”
Chen was a man who practiced what he preached, and I do not mourn his passing; I cherish his memory.
Romeo Eldridge Phillips
Professor Education and Music, Emeritus
Senior Awards 2012
The following students received awards during the Senior Awards Ceremony, June 9, 2012
Fine Arts Division
THE LILIA CHEN AWARD IN ART, awarded to students in their junior or senior year who distinguish themselves through their work in ceramics, sculpture, or painting, and who exhibit strong progress in their understanding of art.
- Joanne A. Heppert
- Daedalian James Derks
- Taylor Stamm
THE GEORGE EATON ERRINGTON PRIZE, awarded to an outstanding senior art major.
- Angela M. Frakes
THE LILLIAN PRINGLE BALDAUF PRIZE IN MUSIC, awarded to an outstanding music student.
- Erin C. Donevan
THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT AWARD, given by the Music Department of the College for outstanding contributions to the musical life of the campus.
- Gina Marie Cosgrove Bravata
- Rachel Meria Cohan
- Gus L. Hay
- Elizabeth Antoinette Hubbell
- Michael P. Ignagni
- Elizabeth Anne Kur
- Madelaine Mae McCann
- Jacob R. Price
- Hailey R. Schurr
- Alison Raeann Smith
THE FAN E. SHERWOOD MEMORIAL PRIZE, awarded for outstanding progress and ability on the violin, viola, cello or bass.
- Eleanor E. Wong
THE MARGARET UPTON PRIZE IN MUSIC, awarded each year to a student designated by the Music Department faculty as having made significant achievement in music.
- Jacob C. Arnett
- Kate Elise Fodor
THE RUTH SCOTT CHENERY AWARD, given to a graduating senior who has excelled academically and in theatre and who plans to continue the study of theatre arts following graduation.
- David H. Pimentel
- Marianne Renee Stine
THE IRMGARD KOWATZKI THEATRE AWARD, awarded to the senior who has excelled both in academic areas and in theatrical productions during four years at the College.
- Samuel T. Bertken
THE CHARLES TULLY DESIGN AWARD, given annually to a senior who has achieved excellence in some aspect of theatre design.
- Kyle A. McCord
Foreign Languages Division
THE CHINESE OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARD recognizes seniors who have excelled in the study of the Chinese language and China-related subjects on campus and abroad in China.
- Douglas Colton
- Nicholas R. Gersch
- John C. McGowan
THE PROVOST’S PRIZE IN CLASSICS, awarded to that student who writes the best essay on a classical subject.
- Rachel A. LoPatin
THE JOE FUGATE SENIOR GERMAN AWARD, awarded to a senior for excellence in German.
- Nathan Colello Gilmour
THE JAPANESE NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY, COLLEGE CHAPTER, is
awarded in recognition of the student’s achievement in their study of the Japanese language and for their overall academic excellence.
- Laura Whitney Abram
- Lauren Jean Case
- Kellea S. Floyd
- William Patrick Gallagher
- Aaron E. Geller
- Johnny T. Ho
- Sarah C. Holman
- Ian Powell
THE ALLIANCE FRANCAISE PRIZE IN FRENCH, awarded for excellence in French by an advanced student.
- Kathleen C. Golembiewski
THE SENIOR SPANISH AWARD, given by the Department of Romance Languages for outstanding achievement in Spanish.
- Jameson Kane Drouin
- Joshua Anthony Imperial
- Mayra A. Montero
Humanities Division
THE DAVID STRAUSS PRIZE IN AMERICAN STUDIES, awarded for the best paper written by a graduating senior in his or her junior or senior year in any field of American Studies.
- Allison Nicole LaRose
THE ELWOOD H. AND ELIZABETH H. SCHNEIDER PRIZE, awarded for outstanding and creative work in English done by a student who is not an English major.
- Kathleen C. Golembiewski
THE MARY CLIFFORD STETSON PRIZE, awarded for excellence in English essay writing by a senior.
- Allison Nicole LaRose
THE DWIGHT AND LEOLA STOCKER PRIZE, awarded for excellence in English writing: prose or poetry.
- Stewart J. Finnegan
- Kimberly Grabowski
- Rebecca Ellen Staudenmaier
THE JAMES BIRD BALCH PRIZE, for the senior having done the best work in American History.
- Sarah Christina Baumann
THE HISTORY DEPARTMENT AWARD, given for outstanding work in the major.
- Ariel Marie Schnee
THE HODGE PRIZE IN PHILOSOPHY, awarded to that member of the graduating class who has the highest standing in the field.
- Nathan Colello Gilmour
THE MARION H. DUNSMORE MEMORIAL PRIZE IN RELIGION, awarded for excellence in any year’s work in religion.
- William A. Schlaack
Natural Sciences & Mathematics Division
THE H. LEWIS BATTS PRIZE, awarded to the senior who has done the most to support the activities of the Biology Department and to further the spirit of collegiality among students and faculty in the Department.
- Lindsey Sara Gaston
- Heather Rae Russon
THE ROBERT BZDYL PRIZE IN MARINE BIOLOGY, awarded to one or more students with demonstrated interest and ability in marine biology or related fields.
- Mirae Katherine Guenther
- Zachary K. Janes
THE DIEBOLD SCHOLAR AWARD, given to one or more seniors in recognition of excellence in the oral or poster presentation of the SIP at the Diebold Symposium.
- Kelsey Meredith Hassevoort
- Nathan C. Robinson
- Alison Raeann Smith
THE WILLIAM E. PRAEGER PRIZE, established by the faculty in the Biology Department and awarded to the most outstanding senior major in Biology, based on academic achievement in the discipline.
- Kelsey Meredith Hassevoort
THE ANNUAL UNDERGRADUATE AWARD IN ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY, sponsored by the American Chemical Division of Analytical Chemistry and the Journal of Analytical Chemistry, to an undergraduate student who displays an aptitude for a career in analytical chemistry
- Caitlyn W. VanGelderen
THE ANNUAL UNDERGRADUATE AWARD IN INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, sponsored by the American Chemical Division of Inorganic Chemistry, to an undergraduate senior student planning on pursuing graduate studies in chemistry.
- Masroor Hossain
THE KURT KAUFMAN FELLOW, given annually to a senior with the best Senior Individualized Project in the Chemistry Department.
- Aidan J. Klobuchar
- David M. Robinson
THE LEMUEL F. SMITH AWARD given to the major in chemistry pursuing the American Chemical Society approved curriculum and having at the end of the junior year the highest average standing in courses taken in chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
- Aidan J. Klobuchar
THE OUTSTANDING CHEMISTRY STUDENT FROM KALAMAZOO COLLEGE, sponsored by the Kalamazoo Section of the American Chemical Society and is given to the graduating student who has demonstrated leadership in the chemistry department and plans to pursue graduate studies in chemistry.
- Margarite Matossian
THE CLARKE BENEDICT WILLIAMS PRIZE, awarded to that member of the graduating class who has the best record in mathematics and the allied sciences.
- Daniel J. Esman
- Aidan J. Klobuchar
- Jacob R. Price
THE JOHN WESLEY HORNBECK PRIZE, awarded to a senior with the highest achievement for the year’s work in advanced physics toward a major.
- Alexander C. Dombos
- Lynn Mormino
- Jacob R. Price
Physical Education Division
THE GEORGE ACKER AWARD awarded annually to a male athlete who in his participation gave all, never quit, with good spirit supported others unselfishly, and whose example was inspirational.
- Evan I. Levine
THE SENIOR ATHLETIC AWARD, given by the Department of Physical Education to the outstanding senior female athlete.
- Erin Lynn Campbell
THE MARY LONG BURCH AWARD, for a senior woman who has manifested interest in sports activities and excelled in scholarship.
- Kelsey Meredith Hassevoort
THE KALAMAZOO COLLEGE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION AWARD, for a graduating senior who has most successfully combined high scholarship with athletic prowess.
- Alexander C. Dombos
THE C. W. “OPIE” DAVIS AWARD, awarded to the outstanding senior male athlete
- Christopher J. Manning
THE KNOECHEL FAMILY AWARD, awarded to a senior member of the swim teams in recognition of demonstrated excellence in both intercollegiate swimming and academic performance.
- Christine Lewis
- Kevin B. Lodewyk
THE CATHERINE A. SMITH PRIZE IN WOMEN’’’’S ATHLETICS, awarded to a woman athlete who in her participation gave all, never quit, with good spirit supported others unselfishly, and whose example was inspirational.
- Katherine Grue
- Kelsey Johnson
Social Sciences Division
THE RAYMOND L. HIGHTOWER AWARD, given to a graduating senior for excellence in and commitment to the disciplines of sociology and anthropology and leadership in the Department of Anthropology and Sociology
- Hannah Hindman Reischl
- Dana Robinson
THE BARTLETT LAW AWARD, awarded to an outstanding student of Economics or Political Science active in extracurricular activities who plans to pursue a career in law.
- Matthew Thomas DuWaldt
- Claire Victoria Madill
THE A. M. FINK MEMORIAL PRIZE IN BUSINESS, awarded to an outstanding Economics and Business major, active in extracurricular activities, who plans to pursue graduate work or an immediate career in business.
- Calder Alexander Leaver Burgam
- Cameron Carl Lang
THE WILLIAM G. HOWARD MEMORIAL PRIZE, awarded to a senior who has done the best work in a major in economics..
- Matthew Thomas DuWaldt
- Johnny T. Ho
- Claire Victoria Madill
THE EUGENE P. STERMER AWARD IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION, awarded to a senior in Economics and Business for excellence in academic work
- Patrick A. Miller
- Rachel Christine Pitzer
- Joseph J. Prepolec
THE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL RELATIONS PRIZE, awarded for leadership in the major, reflecting commitment to inter-disciplinary thinking and social justice.
- Dion Bullock
- LaShawn M. Etheridge
THE E. BRUCE BAXTER MEMORIAL AWARD, awarded to a senior showing outstanding development in the field of political science.
- Zachary Ryan Holden
THE WILLIAM G. HOWARD MEMORIAL PRIZE, awarded for excellence in a year’s work in political science.
- Calder Alexander Leaver Burgam
- Emily K. Wolf
THE EUGENE P. STERMER AWARD IN PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, awarded to a student in public policy and/or international affairs for excellence in academic work in the senior year.
- Alyssa M. Rickard
- Theodore J. Sweetser
THE MARSHALL HALLOCK BRENNER PRIZE, awarded to an outstanding student for excellence in the field of psychology.
- Keith R. Moreno
THE XARIFA GREENQUIST MEMORIAL PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT AWARD, given in recognition of distinctive service to students and faculty in Psychology by a student assistant.
- Emily Renee Geister-Danville
- Katharine Ellen Grills
- Alexander P. Griffin
THE RICHARD D. KLEIN SENIOR AWARD IN PSYCHOLOGY, given for outstanding work in the Senior Individualized Project.
- Chloe E. Page
THE RICHARD D. KLEIN SENIOR AWARD IN PSYCHOLOGY, given for outstanding contributions to the community.
- Elise Wolf Williams
THE DONALD W. VAN LIERE PRIZE, given for excellence in psychology research.
- Katharine Ellen Grills
- Tristan A. Morioka
- Courtney Lynne Narker
THE DONALD W. VAN LIERE PRIZE, given for excellence in psychology coursework.
- Kara Jane Milton
THE LUCINDA HINSDALE STONE PRIZE, awarded to a student whose scholarship, research or creative work in women’s studies, in the form of a SIP or other academic work, is most impressive.
- Angela M. Frakes
- Sarah C. Holman
- Allison Nicole LaRose
Non-Departmental Awards
THE GORDON BEAUMONT MEMORIAL AWARD, awarded to the deserving student who displays qualities of selflessness, humanitarian concern, and willingness to help others, as exemplified in the life of Gordon Beaumont.
- Lashawn Etheridge
- Anna Miller
THE HENRY AND INEZ BROWN PRIZE, awarded in recognition of outstanding participation in the College community.
- Courtney Nartker
THE ALPHA LAMBDA DELTA MAY BRUNSON GRADUATE FELLOWSHIP, given to a senior working toward a graduate or professional degree.
- Matthew Thomas DuWaldt
THE VIRGINIA HINKELMAN MEMORIAL AWARD is awarded to a deserving student who displays a deep concern for the well-being of children, as demonstrated through career goals in the field of child welfare.
- Zena S. Blake-Mark
THE ALPHA LAMBDA DELTA MARIA LEONARD SENIOR BOOK AWARD, given to the Alpha Lambda Delta member graduating with the highest GPA.
- Alexander C. Dombos
- Kelsey Meredith Hassevoort
- Zachary Ryan Holden
- Claire Victoria Madill
- Kara Jane Milton
THE CATHERINE A. SMITH PRIZE IN HUMAN RIGHTS, awarded to a senior who has been active on campus in promoting human rights, furthering progressive social and cultural change, and combating violence, repression, and bigotry.
- Britta A. Seifert
THE BABETTE TRADER CAMPUS CITIZENSHIP AND LEADERSHIP AWARD, awarded to that member of the graduating class, who has most successfully combined campus citizenship and leadership with scholarship.
- Alexandra N. Crockford
- Obineche S. Nnebedum
THE MAYNARD OWEN WILLIAMS MEMORIAL AWARD, for the best student entry in the form of an essay, poetry, paintings, sketches, photographs, or films derived from Study Abroad.
- Saskia Boggs
- Kathleen W. Sly
- Emily K. Wolf
The Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Institute for Service-Learning awards LAPLANTE STUDENT SCHOLARSHIPS to recognize and reward students who have shown outstanding dedication to civic engagement. The LaPlante Scholars design and lead community programs that promote a more just, equitable and sustainable world.
- Paul A. Garza
- Alexander P. Griffin
- Jay W. McMillan
- Anna Marie Miller
- Ellen Curtin Murphy
- Obineche Nnebedum
- Catherine Anne Wadsworth Oldershaw
- Ian Powell
- Dana Robinson
- Anna F. Witte
The VIBBERT SCHOLARS honor and exemplify the spirit and leadership of Stephanie Vibbert, activist, scholar, artist, poet and feminist, by creating programs that promote equality and social justice.
- Angela M. Frakes
- Meredith Loomis Quinlan
- Taylor Stamm
THE SENIOR LEADERSHIP RECOGNITION AWARD, is awarded to students who have provided key elements of leadership in their organizations, athletic teams, academic departments, employment, and the wider Kalamazoo community. Students were nominated by faculty and staff members in January. Seniors eligible for this award also had to meet a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average requirement and be in good academic and social standing at the College.
- Jacob Christopher Arnett
- Zena S. Blake-Mark
- Dion Bullock
- Leonidas M. Caldwell
- Rachel Meria Cohan
- Mark J. Denenfeld
- Benjamin Gawel Ensroth
- LaShawn M. Etheridge
- Katherine A. Grue
- Kelsey Meredith Hassevoort
- Joanne A. Heppert
- Jennifer Michelle Fiandaca McCutcheon
- Tanjanequa F. McMeans
- Anna Marie Miller
- Ellen Curtin Murphy
- Obineche S. Nnebedum
- David H. Pimentel
- Daniel Pohanka
- Jacob R. Price
- Meredith Loomis Quinlan
- Hannah Hindman Reischl
- Heather Rae Russon
- Melba N. Sales-Griffin
- William A. Schlaack
- Paula Alana Silverman
- Dalton S. Simancek
- Kathleen W. Sly
- Caitlyn W. VanGelderen
- Molly Christine Waytes
- Max A. Wedding
- Sandrine Zilikana
Author Eve Ensler Visits Kalamazoo College
Eve Ensler has devoted her life to stopping violence against women and girls, envisioning a planet in which they will be free to thrive, not merely survive. She has traveled to Afghanistan, Bosnia, Haiti, and the Congo providing innovative programming to support women survivors of sexual violence. She is the creator of V-Day, a global movement to stop violence against women and girls.
Her documentary, What I Want My Words to Do to You, about her work with a writing group at Bedford Hill Correctional Facility in New York, highlights her work exploring the voices of women as a path to empowerment. Her latest book, I Am an Emotional Creature: The Secret Life of Girls around the World, made the New York Times best sellers list. Ensler is best known for her Tony award-winning play The Vagina Monologues, which has been performed in more than 130 countries.
On Tuesday May 15, she spent the afternoon and evening on the Kalamazoo College campus meeting students, faculty, staff, trustees, and community guests. She wowed a large audience in Dalton Theatre with her talk, Theater as a Tool for Revolutionary Change, and stayed late into the night to sign books and autographs in the Light Fine Arts lobby. Thank you, Eve Ensler, for your authentic and inspiring visit to K as the 2012 Arcus Center for Social Justice Leadership annual spring lecturer.
SIPs Presented at 59th Annual Spectroscopy Meeting
Seniors Aidan Klobuchar and Niclas West presented posters describing their Senior Individualized Project research at the 59th annual Western Spectroscopy Association Meeting at the Asilomar Conference Center in Pacific Grove, California, in January.
Klobuchar worked on the project “Revealing Orientation Using Circularly Polarized Light” with Associate Professor of Chemistry Jeff Bartz. West based his poster, “Revealing Molecular Dynamics Through DC Slice Ion Imaging,” on his research with Professor Simon North at Texas A&M University. Both students have worked with Professor Bartz on laser-based research since Summer 2008. Klobuchar and West will attend graduate school in physical chemistry this fall.