eNews 34th Edition
- Help Push the Wilkie Family Challenge Match Over the Top
- AFP Greater Detroit – National Philanthropy Day Celebration Dinner
- CulEx 2024: Dine & Disco Reaches New Heights!
- SAVE THE DATES
- Funding Helps Support Student Mental Health
- Building Relationships
- GIVING TUESDAY: Campaign Staff and Faculty Results: $5,950!
- Angileri Quality Institute Symposium
- Thank You!
- Schoolcraft Offers Alumni & Friends FREE Virtual Learning Opportunities with National Speakers
- In the News
Help Push the Wilkie Family Challenge Match Over the Top
Between now and December 31, the Wilkie family will match all gifts to the Schoolcraft College Foundation’s Greatest Needs Fund up to $125,000. Currently, $112,000 has been raised and your gift can make a difference right now. GIVE TODAY.
The Wilkie family is rooted in the Livonia community. The relationship with Schoolcraft started in the 60s with Lloyd Wilkie and then-Schoolcraft president Dick McDowell as fellow Livonia Rotarians. The relationship grew and when Lloyd Wilke passed away, Elka Wilkie started a scholarship in the Wilkie family name. When Elka Wilkie passed, Mark continued to support the scholarship in the Wilkie Family name.
A Livonia Bentley High School graduate and owner of Livonia Building Materials, Mark Wilkie continues the philanthropic commitment to Schoolcraft College and supporting its students. In fact, Mark recently married Foundation Board Member Helen McGrath and worked with Schoolcraft alumna Chef Kelli Lewton, owner of Two Unique Catering as their wedding caterer. Chef Lewton’s wedding celebration team included two Schoolcraft alums Chef Andrew Martin and Chef Teresa Schmidt.
This is the fourth year of the yearend Wilkie Challenge Match and gifts of any size make a difference in the lives of our students. The Schoolcraft College Foundation stands firm in its mission: supporting thousands of students each year is a collective effort that goes beyond state programs like Michigan Reconnect and the Community College Guarantee. Many students face profound challenges, including food insecurity and homelessness.
Please invest in the bright future of a Schoolcraft College student and have your gift doubled through the Wilkie Family Challenge Match. You have the power to create life-changing opportunities and be a beacon of hope for those in need.
For information and to make a gift at https://scf.schoolcraft.edu/ OR mail a check payable to the Schoolcraft College Foundation to 18600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, MI 48152. Need more information? Call (724) 462-4455 or email foundation@schoolcraft.edu
Thank you for making a difference!
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Dr. Dick McDowell and Chef Marc Djozlija Recognized at National Philanthropy Day Celebration
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), the international professional organization for fundraisers, celebrates National Philanthropy Day each year. The AFP of Greater Detroit Chapter held its celebration at The Henry Ford Museum on November 13, where organizations recognized volunteers. The Schoolcraft College Foundation recognized two key contributors, Dr. Dick McDowell and Chef Marc Djozlija.
Dr. Richard McDowell was recognized as a “Servant Leader”.
Dr. McDowell was Schoolcraft College’s third president from 1981-2001, leading significant growth during his tenure. His dedication to academic excellence and affordable education is evident through his active involvement in the Culinary Arts Program and the Schoolcraft College Foundation. Recently, he was honored as an honorary member of the Culinary Chef Squad at the Foundation’s Culinary Extravaganza reflecting his lasting impact on the community.
Chef Marc Djozlija was recognized as “Visionary.”
As the Culinary Extravaganza Event Committee Chair for the Schoolcraft College Foundation, he has shown outstanding leadership for eight years. His innovative approach transformed the largest fundraiser into a showcase of student talent, supporting various campus initiatives. Djozlija’s commitment to culinary excellence and community engagement makes him a deserving recipient of this recognition.
Attended by Foundation Board members Ram Ramanujam and Melanie Duquesnel along with Foundation staff Dawn Magretta and Lisa Meinzinger-Abraham, While Chef Djozlija couldn’t be there, the evening was a delightful celebration of two of our incredible supporters who continue to inspire us every day!
CulEx 2024: Dine & Disco Reaches New Heights!
The recent CulEx 2024 themed Dine & Disco was a fabulous success raising over $125,000 net for Schoolcraft College scholarships, programs, and Culinary Arts. Chaired by Chef Marc Djozlija, owner of Wright & Company, CulEx attracted over 300 guests to enjoy an array of delectable dishes created by our chefs and students. Many guests came dressed in 70’s Disco attire and enjoyed strolling through Vistatech’s Collaborative Learning Studio, American Harvest, Craft Grille, culinary kitchens, and brewery. The evening ended with dancing at Vistatech’s Town Square Disco!
New this year was the inaugural Chef Squad where Schoolcraft Alumni were inducted including Chef Gregory Alexiev, Chef Heather Moore, Chef Jim Oppat, Chef John Prepolec, Chef Terence Tarver, Chef Kelli Lewton, and Chef Chris Misiak. Also inducted as an Honorary Chef Squad Members was Dr. Dick McDowell, president emeritus of Schoolcraft College and Chef Marc Djozlija. Mark your calendars for CulEx 2025 on October 23!
Thanks to the following sponsors for generously supporting the 2024 CulEx!
SAVE THE DATES:
2025 Giving & Growth Series
A speaker series on philanthropy and planning
Schoolcraft College – Vistatech Center – Diponio Room VT500A
18600 Haggerty Rd, Livonia, MI 48152
11:30 am to 1:00 pm
1/30: Economic Forecast featuring Graystone Consulting – Great Lakes Michigan – Register Now!
$20 per person, $25 after January 15
3/13: Women in Philanthropy
5/22: Creative Blended Giving
9/25: Estate Planning
11/20: Year-end Giving
Alumni & Friends
9/5: Schoolcraft Night at the Detroit Tigers Game
Funding Helps Support Student Mental Health
SC BeWell offers enrolled students free, 24-7 mental health care. Funded through a grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and the Ballmer Group. This new initiative offers a variety of free resources to assist students in navigating various challenges. Free services for students through the UWill platform include virtual, in–person, and phone counseling, access to the wellness hub, financial wellness, and additional remote support options.
There has been a steady increase in registered students accessing the UWill mental health platform, especially with finals and the holidays. Anxiety (79%), stress (72%), and depression (69%), trauma (55%), academic concerns (48%) are the top reasons Schoolcraft students listed for seeking counseling through UWill.
To date, there has been a total of 77 unduplicated students that registered for this service and it’s helping students continue their educational journey. So far, Uwill has responded to 20 student crisis calls. Also, of the 53 credential-seeking students enrolled in Winter 2024 and registered on U-Will 62% have persisted to the Fall 2024 term. One student completed an associate degree at Schoolcraft.
The holidays and finals can be a stressful time for students. If you know a registered Schoolcraft student who could use assistance or for information regarding SC BeWell programs, including UWill, please reach out to Student Relations at (734) 462-4486.
Building Relationships
Schoolcraft College and the Indian Women’s Association – Diwali Celebration
On November 9th, the Schoolcraft Asian Students Association hosted a lively Diwali Celebration at the Vistatech Center. Diwali, known as the festival of lights, is a joyous time filled with laughter, delicious food, and the warmth of family.
This festival celebrates the victory of good over evil. Attendees enjoyed traditional music, dance performances, and a variety of cultural activities that highlighted the rich traditions of Diwali. The event brought together students, faculty, and community members to share in the festivities and learn more about this important cultural celebration.
The Schoolcraft College Foundation sponsored 50 attending students and was proud to join the Diwali Celebration at the College. Thanks to the Schoolcraft College Asian Student Club, the Asian Indian Women’s Association, and Anna Maheshwari, Ph.D. for putting on a fantastic event that brought the community to Schoolcraft.
Retiree Holiday Luncheon
The Schoolcraft College Retiree Committee hosted its holiday lunch with charcuterie, wine tasting and a wonderful lunch on December 6th in the Collaborative Learning Studio in Vistatech. Highlights included delightful moments with new and old friends.
Attendees enjoyed an incredible luncheon and a wine pairing demonstration led by Chef Brian Beland, CMC, Culinary Arts department chair and faculty member; Kariann Fifer, a CSW Certified Sommelier and Culinary Arts instructor at Schoolcraft College. Additionally, Maggie Jagielski, the Schoolcraft Foundation Scholar, shared her inspiring story, emphasizing the importance of supporting the mission of the Foundation.
GIVING TUESDAY: Campaign Staff and Faculty Results: $5,950!
The faculty and staff at Schoolcraft College truly embraced the spirit of GIVING TUESDAY, raising an impressive $5,950 in donations to the Greatest Needs Fund which will be tripled by the Wilkie Family Challenge Match! The Greatest Needs Fund is a lifeline for Schoolcraft College students, ensuring scholarships, grants, learning support, and emergency aid.
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Angileri Quality Institute Symposium
Frank E. Angileri
January 29, 1926 – October 10, 2024
A very fond farewell to Frank E. Angileri, a most treasured philanthropist and friend of Schoolcraft College, who leaves behind opportunities and precious memories for generations to come.
Because of Frank E. Angileri’s remarkable philanthropic contributions to the College, Schoolcraft Workforce and Economic Development hosted the second annual Angileri Quality Institute Symposium: Building a Quality Workforce in the Evolving Mobility Industry Evolution.
On November 8th, the Schoolcraft College’s Workforce & Economic Development Center welcomed a panel of leaders from BOSCH, Roush, the University of Michigan EV Mobility Center, the Center for Automotive Research, and Caresoft Global. Students, faculty, staff, and community members engaged in discussions about the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs), workforce development, and how community colleges can improve their certification and degree programs to rise to the demand.
A highlight of the event was a presentation by three engineering students from Schoolcraft College, who showcased their EV SWITCH vehice, part of a pilot of Schoolcraft’s new EV Mobility certificate program in collaboration with U of M.
Thank You!
Jerry and Cindy Larson established an endowed scholarship fund for students who need financial assistance. They moved to the area to be near their family and quickly recognized the importance of Schoolcraft’s vital role in the community.
Corewell Health renewed its $170,000 Corewell Nursing Scholarships for 2025. This important Fund supports second-year nursing students and promises employment once they receive their degree and pass the certification exam. In May, the first Corewell Nursing Fund scholars will graduate.
The Schoolcraft College Foundation received a $30,000 grant from Masco for the Masco Wraparound Scholarship Fund which supports student needs over and above tuition. This important Fund was established in 2023 and has provided support for various things including books.
Schoolcraft College’s Manufacturing and Engineering Center received a $1.4 million in-kind donation from Caresoft Global for the College’s Computer Aided Design (CAD) courses. This is software that is being used in industry, particularly the automotive industry and provided opportunities for Schoolcraft students to learn on the most current technology in CAD.
On November 8, Schoolcraft College’s Wayne County Regional Police Academy graduated 58 recruits. The leadership and our donors presented 20 scholarship and achievement awards to recognize the hard work and dedication it took to make it through the 16 weeks of intensive training. The recruits will employed with with more than 20 police depts. across Michigan from Adrian to Sanilac County.
Schoolcraft Offers Alumni & Friends FREE Virtual Learning Opportunities with National Speakers
Register at: alumlc.org/schoolcraft
Can’t make it to a webinar?
Here is a link to the library of previous presentations you can access free of charge!
Get to the Point: Communicate More By Saying Less
Diane DiResta, Author and Certified Speaking Professional
Tuesday, Jan 7th at 12:00 PM EST
Mastering the Art of Closure: Why We Want It, How to Get It, and When to Walk Away
Gary McClain, PhD, Author and Clinical Psychologist
Wednesday, Jan 15th at 12:00 PM EST
How to Dismantle Doubt
Anne Marie Anderson, Three-Time Emmy Award-Winning Sports Broadcaster, Keynote Speaker, and Author
Wednesday, January 22nd at 12:00 PM EST
How to Be a Non-Obvious Thinker (And See What Others Miss)
Rohit Bhargava, Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling Author
Wednesday, January 29th at 12:00 PM EST
In the News
Victor Views | My Michigan: Finding My Passion (K Wenske)
M – Student Life – Campus Information – By Kathryn Wenske
During my time at Schoolcraft, I was fortunate to have been accepted into a program specific in aiding transfer students, called Transfer Bridges, where I found my support system that greatly aided in my success of acceptance to U-M.
Read More >
Nino Salvaggio breaks ground in Livonia
Detroit Free Press – By Laura Colvin – November 9, 2024
A new Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace is expected to open on the campus of Schoolcraft College sometime in late 2025.
Read More >
Show your support for Schoolcraft College students and programs today.
Vision 2025: The Fundraising Initiative
Vision 2025 is a five-year fundraising initiative that supports Schoolcraft College — its programs, students, and members of the southeast Michigan community. It is designed to provide the financial support needed for innovation beyond the limitations of current funding. Vision 2025 will impact the next 25 years of the 21st century by helping the college transform workforce education, which will engage, inspire, and transform students, the community, and economy.