eNews 33rd Edition
In This Edition
- Vision 2025: The Final Stretch – We Need You!
- Wilkie Family Match is BACK!
- CulEx 2024: News – October 24, 2024 – Tickets & Sponsorships are Still Available!
- Two New Initiatives Launched for Mental Health Support
- Welcome Back, Faculty!
- Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers Game
- Foundation Board Update
- Building Relationships
- April Faculty & Staff Campaign Results: $21,355!
- Community Outreach – Don’t miss Tailgate!
- National Speakers Headline FREE Webinar Series
- In the News
Vision 2025: The Final Stretch – We Need You!
Four years ago, the Schoolcraft College Foundation launched Vision 2025, the first comprehensive fundraising campaign in the College’s 64-year history. Chaired by Schoolcraft College Foundation Board Members Marina Shoemaker and John Walsh, Vision 2025 is in its final stretch. Between now and June 30, we have an additional $1.5 million to raise to achieve our goal of $18 million.
Over the next several months, we ask that you consider supporting Schoolcraft and engage in various giving opportunities like our signature fundraising event CulEx, and the yearend Wilkie Family Challenge Match, the annual Employee Giving Campaign, or including SC Foundation in your estate plans.
Perhaps you are interested in starting a Named Fund or a Named Endowment Fund at Schoolcraft. Philanthropic investment in Schoolcraft goes a long way in supporting our students.
If you are interested in starting a fund or exploring philanthropic opportunities, please reach out to Foundation Executive Director, Dawn Magretta, at dmagretta@schoolcraft.edu or Director of Major Gifts, Carole Booms, at cbooms@schoolcraft.edu. Or call 734.462.4455.
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The Wilkie Family Challenge Match is Back!
JUST IN! Mark Wilkie stepped up again this year with an even larger CHALLENGE: $125,000! The Wilkie Family will match gifts to the Foundation designated for the Greatest Needs Fund raised through our Year-end Giving Campaign.
CulEx is October 24 and Tickets are Almost Sold Out!
CulEx DINE & DISCO tickets are selling fast! Do not miss your chance to experience the premiere fundraising event of the year and help support student success!
Get out your favorite funky Disco attire and get ready for fun as we transform the Vistatech Center into a 70’s nightclub for the evening. Be ready to dance and dine as we showcase award-winning students and faculty of the Culinary Arts and Brewing & Distillation programs.
CulEx is crucial to helping us reach our goal for VISION 2025. Sponsorships include the coveted special access to the VIP Reception in the new Vistatech Collaborating Learning Studio featuring a specially curated Chef Squad of celebrity Schoolcraft College alums, who will impress with their signature dishes and craft cocktails.
Special Thanks to the generous people and businesses who make CulEx possible!
– Presenting Sponsor $15K –
Fran & David Grossman
– Platinum Sponsors $10K –
Masco
Phoenix Innovate
Keith Sirlin
– Gold Sponsors $7,500 –
AUCH Construction
– Silver Sponsors $5,500 –
AlphaUSA
HOUR Detroit
Thomas L. Marek
Michigan Educational Credit Union
Strategic Staffing Solutions
Carol & Cal Strom
– Bronze Sponsors $2,500 –
DHGIT Properties LLC
Express Employment Professionals
Graystone Consulting from Morgan Stanley
Kerr Russell – Attorneys at Law
Mason Investment Advisory Services
Universal Properties
– Partner Sponsors $1,500 –
Steven L. Berg, Ph.D.
D & B Landscaping, Inc.
Gary & Lisa Gabel
Integrated Design Solutions
The Northville Gallery
Bill & Pam Rushlow
John Jr. & Judy Santeiu
Sohn Linen
Craig & Mitzy Wills
Two New Initiatives Launched for Mental Health Support
C3’s: Campus Comfort Companions
Five new specially trained Campus Comfort Companions joined the Schoolcraft College family as a new program to support mental health for students, employees, and community members. Mocha, Teddy, Starla, Scout, and Copper have gone through intense training with their Schoolcraft Police Officer handlers. These Campus Comfort Companion dogs are a valuable resource to the Schoolcraft College Police Department in day-to-day operations.
The function of the C3’s is to:
1. Provide interaction during investigations involving students/faculty/staff to reduce anxiety and increase communication between a victim/witness and officers.
2. Provide comfort for people during times of crisis.
3. Provide aid and comfort to individuals, groups and communities impacted by violence, tragedy, or traumatic events.
4. Foster dialog and communications between the Schoolcraft College police department and the College community we serve.
5. Effectively enhance the Department’s many and ongoing community policing efforts.
Many schools and colleges continue to see students, staff, and community struggling with mental health issues. Emotional support animals have been proven to help students reduce stress, loneliness, depression, and anxiety. This program was funded through a grant from the Schoolcraft College Foundation.
SC BeWell:
The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that over one in five adults in the United States, equating to approximately 59.3 million individuals in 2022, are living with a mental illness, representing 23.1% of the adult population. Schoolcraft College now provides free mental health counseling services to all currently enrolled students.
The SC BeWell/UWill Wraparound Care initiative offers a variety of free resources to assist students in navigating various challenges. Services include: virtual, in –person, and telephonic counseling, access to the wellness hub, and additional remote support options. The goal of SC BeWell is to enhance the equity and accessibility of mental health care for our students who might otherwise struggle to obtain necessary support. This initiative features 24/7/365 support available to all registered students. At Schoolcraft, we prioritize both mental and academic success.
In addition to SC BeWell, students can access existing mental health resources through the Office of Student Relations. UWill, a round-the-clock mental health and wellness support service for enrolled students, has been established through a grant from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation and Ballmer Group. For further information regarding SC BeWell and UWill, please reach out to Student Relations at 734.462.4486 or scan the code provided below for additional details.
Welcome Back, Faculty!
A big THANKS to Foundation Board Member Alec Thomson who hosted a Foundation Welcome Back Faculty Reception on August 23 that was held following Faculty Professional Development Day. There were over 100 faculty members, and Foundation Board Members who attended this event, which was a way to thank faculty for the support they give the Foundation and College outside of the classroom.
Marina L. Shoemaker and Clyde Rivard
Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers Game
While the Tigers may not have clinched a victory on August 16, the real win was the incredible evening shared by over 150 Schoolcraft alumni, retirees, donors, faculty and staff. Their presence made the night truly special.
This event also marked the exciting kickoff of the final year of the Schoolcraft College Foundation’s Vision 2025 campaign. As we celebrate the College’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign in its 64-year history, we are reminded that it is because of generous supporters that Schoolcraft continues to shine as an outstanding educational and community resource. Between now and June 30, 2025, The SC Foundation is focused on raising the final $1.5 million to reach our ambitious goal of $18 million in five years.
Foundation Board Update
Three longstanding board members will be leaving, but it’s not goodbye! Jim Fausone, Stuart Baker, and Dan Paulson will be term-limited off the Schoolcraft College Foundation Board as of June 30th. Each of these individuals has contributed to taking the Foundation to a new level.
Jim Fausone, principle at the law firm Fausone Grysko, LLC, chaired the Foundation Finance Committee, along with Financial Advisor Dan Paulson, led the selection of a new investment management company, reworked the budget and spending policy, and put policies in place to strengthen the organization’s future financial position.
While Stuart Baker also served on the Finance Committee, he also led the Foundation’s workforce and education initiatives and was the liaison to the Schoolcraft Retiree Committee. Known as Mr. Schoolcraft during his tenure as a faculty and staff member, Stuart continued to advocate for Schoolcraft College while on the Board. The Foundation Board appreciate their leadership and service to the organization and Schoolcraft College!
New and Returning Board Members
We are thrilled to announce that Mark Knoth, an attorney at Kerr Russell specializing in automotive, labor, employment, employee benefits, and ERISA; Michael Davenport, the President and Founder of TrilogySecurity, Inc., a cyber security consulting firm with 22 years of experience; and Chuck Dardas, President of AlphaUSA, have joined the Schoolcraft College Foundation Board.
Their expertise in their respective fields, community connections, and dedication to helping the Schoolcraft Foundation achieve our VISION 2025 goals are invaluable.
For more information about our new Board Members and the SC Foundation Board of Governors, please visit: https://scf.schoolcraft.edu/about-us/board-of-governors/
Exciting News for Former Schoolcraft College Foundation Board Member, Nicole A. Sherard-Freeman: She has been named President of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan
Nicole served on the Schoolcraft College Foundation Board from 2014-2021 and has 30 years of experience across corporate, non-profit, government, and philanthropic sectors. In her new role as President of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, she oversees program management, finance, strategic planning, donor services, project operations, and special initiatives. Notable achievements include overhauling a public workforce system and leading Detroit’s economic development efforts.
For more information about Nicole, visit: Nicole Sherard-Freeman named as New President; Ric DeVore to Retire (cfsem.org)
Building Relationships
The Brigadier General Carol Ann Fausone Women’s Clinic opened at the Ann Arbor VA Medical Center in February and was named after General Fausone May 21, 2024, in recognition of her service and dedication to providing comprehensive care for women and veterans. The Foundation staff was honored to represent Schoolcraft for this momentous occasion.
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Foundation Board Member, Clyde Rivard, hosted a tour of the Health Sciences Center and lunch for his friends and neighbors. The Imaging Center is named for his late wife, Marie Rivard.
The Schoolcraft College Retiree Committee hosted its annual summer event on June 14 at the Manufacturing and Engineering Center (MEC). More than 50 retirees enjoyed hearing about Schoolcraft College from President Glenn Cerny and a presentation by Frank Abnekar, Mobility Liaison. Abnekar spoke about future opportunities for training in the mobility sector. After the tour and presentation, SC Retirees were treated to a fabulous Schoolcraft catered lunch.
The Foundation was well represented at Schoolcraft College’s 59th Commencement. Along with 500 graduates and former Detroit Lion and Pride of the Lion’s member Lomas Brown, two of the Schoolcraft College Foundation Board Members were honored at the May 4th Commencement. Ram Ramanujam received an Honorary Degree and Clyde Rivard received the Distinguished Alumni Award.
April Faculty & Staff Campaign Results: $21,355!
Goal for Month of April: $10K
Raised: $11,355
Challenge Match: $10K
$5K each from our community partner, Michigan Educational Credit Union & President Glenn Cerny
Visit our community partner! Michigan Educational CU (michedcu.org)
Employee Giving and Lip Sync Battle
April kicked off with an amazing celebration of talent and enthusiasm at the Employee Giving Lip-Sync Battle on April 4th. Four acts competed for prizes (grants) to benefit the area of the College of their choice.
Our esteemed judges were Stuart Baker, Foundation Board of Governors, Chelsea Willis, Executive Assistant to the President & Board of Trustees, and Taquilla Kusero, Director of Equity & Engagement.
1st Place – Schoolcraft Police Department, Lt. Matt Mayes and Sgt. Ken Losey performing Soul Man as Jake & Elwood – The Blues Brothers. The $5K Foundation Grant was used to buy a bike for the SC Police Department and the remainder was gifted by them, to the Math Department to purchase calculators for student instruction.
2nd Place – Schoolcraft Facilities Department, April Appelle, Bernie Turner, and Maria Lazzarino performing as Shiny Happy People with a medley of Elvis, Cher, and Bon Jovi. The $2,500 Foundation Grant was used to purchase a new grill and refrigerator, as both were in disrepair.
3rd Place – Schoolcraft Computer, Graphics, and Technology Department performing Love is an Open Door from Disney’s Frozen. The $500 Foundation Grant went toward CGT equipment needs for class instruction.
4th Place – Schoolcraft Personal and Professional Learning, Chef George Rapitis performing Faith by George Michael. The $500 Foundation Grant went toward culinary equipment for the Culinary Arts program.
Community Outreach
Operation Refuge hosted nationally renowned artist Ted Ellis at their new STEM lab in Inkster. Schoolcraft has partnered with this organization for several years hosting Camp Inspire at the College and providing SC Foundation Kids on Campus Scholarships over the years. Led by Executive Director Jean Overman, this community-based center provides after-school STEM programs for K-12 youth.
Tour de Livonia Schoolcraft College and the Foundation sponsored Tour de Livonia on September 8th which attracted hundreds of cyclists, young and old. The Schoolcraft Baseball Team came out to hand out stickers and Schoolcraft mascot Ozzy the Ocelot was the most photographed celebrity there!
It was a great opportunity to connect with so many organizations, community leaders, and individuals who support Schoolcraft. The SC team met several alums who stopped to say Hi to Ozzy. Many were there for the Family Ride with future Ocelots. A win for Schoolcraft!
During the School Daze Fall Festival, the Foundation connected with students to provide information on student aid and assistance with tuition gap funding. They also confirmed that international students can apply for privately funded scholarships. The winners of the Ipad and Airpods from Ozzy Palooza were Clint Tagarel and John Niemiec. Thanks to everyone who participated!
UP NEXT! Join the SC TAILGATE PARTY 2024 presented by the SC Athletics with support from the SC Foundation. Can’t make it? Consider sponsoring a student. Please scan the QR code for more details.
National Speakers Headline FREE Webinar Series
As an extended member of the Schoolcraft family, the SC Foundation and Alumni Office invite you to keep learning! Visit our Free Upcoming Webinars page to see all events, register and explore recordings of past events. This program is 100% free of charge to participate in. All previous webinars are available to view if you missed them! Don’t miss out on these engaging topics:
Own Your Greatness: Overcome Impostor Syndrome, Beat Self-Doubt, and Succeed in Life
Dr. Lisa Orbe-Austin, Author, Licensed Psychologist and Executive Coach
Thursday, October 24th at 12:00 PM EDT
The Art and Science of Connection: Why Social Health is the Missing Key to Living Longer, Healthier, and Happier
Kasley Killam, Bestselling Author and Leading Expert in Social Health
Thursday, October 31st at 12:00 PM EDT
In the News
Culinary dreams: Regional students young and old work toward careers in the kitchen
The Blade – By Maddie Coppel – October 6, 2024
Jamie Toeppe, 47, is a culinary arts student in her final year at Schoolcraft College in Livonia, Mich. “You’re never too old to keep learning,” the student continued. “If you want something, you have to go after it. It’s not going to come to you.”
Read More >
Metro Detroit teen entrepreneur creates sustainable period product brand to reduce waste
Planet Detroit – By A J Johnson – October 2, 2024
In 2016, Saanvi Kalia, then nine years old, attended a science camp at Schoolcraft College. The experience opened her eyes to deforestation, global warming, and other ecological topics.
Read More >
Orchard Lake police chief reflects on path to his position
West Bloomfield Beacon – By Mark Vest – September 10, 2024
Gomez had gone through a police academy and studied criminal justice at Schoolcraft College. Gomez’s role has evolved over the years and has included being an officer, a sergeant and a lieutenant.
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.