eNews 38th Edition
In This Edition
- The Wilkie Family Challenge: Double Your Impact Today
- CulEx 2025: A Night of Flavor, Celebration, and Impact
- Impact Story: Donor Support Helps Cris Turn Passion into Purpose
- Schoolcraft College Provides Matching Grant for Area Kids
- Foundation Match Helps Local Students Reach the United Nations
- Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers Game: A Home Run of an Evening!
- Schoolcraft Foundation Champions Tour de Livonia
- Culinary Student Surprised with Full-Ride Scholarship
- In the News
- New Funds & State and Federal Relations
- Open Scholarships
- Schoolcraft Offers Alumni & Friends FREE Virtual Learning Opportunities with National Speakers
- Save the Dates
The Wilkie Family Challenge: Double Your Impact Today
An incredible opportunity is back—and it’s bigger than ever.
Thanks to the generous support of the Wilkie family, every gift to Schoolcraft’s Greatest Needs Fund will be matched dollar-for-dollar—up to $150,000—now through December 31, 2025.
That’s $25,000 more than last year, meaning your gift goes even further to support students in need.
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Why It Matters
Schoolcraft’s 2024 Student Financial Wellness Survey revealed:
- 62% worry about affording college
- 41% face food insecurity
- 48% show signs of anxiety
- Yet 85% believe a degree will improve their lives
Your support helps turn that belief into reality.
What Your Gift Supports
The Foundation ensures no student is held back by financial hardship. Your donation powers:
- Scholarships and emergency aid
- Mental health services, transportation and childcare
- Transformative programs and wrap-around support
- K–12 enrichment through Kids on Campus
As we close out 2025, let’s finish strong—together. Help us meet the Wilkie Family Challenge and make twice the impact. Learn More >
CulEx 2025: A Night of Flavor, Celebration, and Impact
Schoolcraft College Foundation’s signature fundraiser, CulEx: An American Harvest, raised a record-breaking $130,000 to support student scholarships, services and programs. In addition, an inspiring $35,500 was contributed toward the Wilkie Family Challenge, doubling the impact on students in need.
More than 400 guests embraced the evening’s Nashville Chic theme, enjoying a strolling dinner crafted by Culinary Arts faculty and students, exclusive brews from the Brewing and Distillation Technology program, and behind-the-scenes access to Schoolcraft’s state-of-the-art facilities—including the American Harvest Restaurant, The Craft Grille and Collaborative Learning Studio.
The event honored four distinguished alumni chefs, each a leader in Michigan’s culinary scene:
- Doug Hewitt – Executive Chef at Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails and Freya, both award-winning Detroit restaurants
- Eric DeVall – Regional Executive Chef at Continental Services, overseeing 46 corporate dining accounts across Michigan
- James Rigato – Chef/Owner of Mabel Gray in Hazel Park, known for its innovative farm-to-table cuisine
- Luciano DelSignore – Renowned restaurateur behind Casa Pernoi, Bigalora Wood Fired Cucina and formerly Bacco Ristorante
These culinary stars were inducted into the Chef Squad, and sponsors were treated to student-prepared dishes inspired by their signature creations.
Event Highlights:
- Signature brews from Schoolcraft’s Brewing and Distillation Technology program
- Whiskey tastings from Detroit City Distillery
- Nashville-inspired cocktails by Alchemi
- Live country music from The Fox and the Fiddle
- DJ-led dancing that kept the energy high all night
A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated committee and volunteers whose hard work made CulEx 2025 an unforgettable success. Your support fuels student dreams—and this year, you helped us soar.
Impact Story: Donor Support Helps Cris Turn Passion into Purpose
Cris’s journey back to college in her 50s is a powerful example of how donor generosity transforms lives. While working full-time and raising three sons, she returned to school determined to become a certified special education teacher—building on more than a decade of experience supporting students with special needs.
Recently, Cris earned her associate degree in General Studies from Schoolcraft College and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree and certification in Autism Spectrum Disorder.
“I realized how much I love working with these students,” she said. “As a teacher, I’ll be able to advocate for them in ways I can’t right now.”
Schoolcraft’s flexible online courses and dedicated advising helped Cris balance academics with family life. Her advisor, Josh McGruther, guided her through financial aid, course planning, and transfer options, making the path forward clearer.
A pivotal moment came when Cris was named a Stephenson Scholar. It was her first scholarship, and it lifted a significant financial burden.
“This has relieved so much stress,” she said. “I wanted to make sure I could finish school, and now I can. It’s a huge honor.”
Thanks to donor support, Cris is walking her path with confidence and purpose.
“If it wasn’t for the donors, I wouldn’t be able to help others the way I want to,” she said. “I’m honored and grateful to continue this journey—even if it still makes me a little nervous.”
Cris’s story is a testament to the ripple effect of donor generosity—empowering students and enriching the lives they touch.
Schoolcraft College Provides Matching Grant for Area Kids
Over 70 Detroit and Redford school children were treated to new Chromebooks, tablets and other school supplies thanks to a matching grant to the Redford Moose Lodge, who raised over $10,000. The efforts paid off and it was a great back-to-school event. These young people can now start the school year with confidence and excitement.
Foundation Match Helps Local Students Reach the United Nations
The Schoolcraft College Foundation proudly provided a $10,000 matching grant to support a life-changing experience for 30 western Wayne County high school students and chaperones who traveled to New York to present at the United Nations as part of the PEAC Institute UN Youth Empowerment Program.
Led by Pastor Jean Overman of Operation Refuge and Rebecca Irby, Nobel Peace Prize honoree and Co-Founder of PEAC Institute, the initiative was highlighted at the Foundation’s June Donor Celebration. Their inspiring work reflects a shared commitment to youth empowerment, global engagement and educational equity.
Stay tuned for future opportunities to connect Schoolcraft students to experiences that inspire and transform.
Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers Game: A Home Run of an Evening!
On September 5, more than 150 Schoolcraft alumni, donors, retirees, faculty, staff and friends gathered at Comerica Park for the second consecutive sold-out Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers Game—an evening filled with pride, connection, and unforgettable memories.
Hosted by the Schoolcraft Foundation, guests enjoyed exclusive access to the Happy Thursday Rooftop Deck, featuring panoramic views of the ballpark and a festive atmosphere. Attendees were treated to unlimited food, beverages and snacks before the game, making it a perfect setting for celebration and camaraderie.
New highlights this year included a special on-field experience, giving some lucky guests a behind-the-scenes photo opportunity, and a lively appearance by Schoolcraft’s beloved mascot Ozzy, who joined forces with the Tigers’ mascot Paws for a fan-favorite photo op—later shared on Paws’ social media!
While the Tigers fell to the Chicago White Sox, the energy and enthusiasm of the Schoolcraft community made the night a true win. This annual event continues to be one of the Foundation’s most meaningful engagement and stewardship opportunities.
Save the Date: August 14, 2026 for the next Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers Game!
Schoolcraft Foundation Champions Tour de Livonia
On September 7, the Schoolcraft Foundation proudly served as a key sponsor of the Tour de Livonia. Ozzy kicked off the race alongside Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan, setting the stage for an exciting event. Members of the Schoolcraft baseball team stepped up as community ambassadors, sharing school spirit throughout the event
Proceeds from the event supported the Breaking Barriers for Kids & Families initiative, helping make a positive impact in our community.
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Culinary Student Surprised with Full-Ride Scholarship
On October 8, freshman culinary student Sophia Thuemmel on received a life-changing surprise—a full-ride scholarship from the Pulte Humanitarian Hotels Foundation, covering tuition, fees, books, and supplies up to $23,000.
The award was presented by Schoolcraft alum and Executive Chef Terrance Tarver of The Inn at St. John’s, a Pulte Humanitarian Hotel. As part of the experience, Sophia will attend one of Chef Tarver’s exclusive Chef’s Table events for hands-on learning.
With a global upbringing and a dream to make an impact through culinary arts, Sophia is a perfect match for Pulte’s mission to give back to the communities they serve—worldwide.
In the News
Schoolcraft culinary grad ‘jazzed’ for Holiday Baking Championship debut on Food Network
Hometown Life – By Susan Bromley – Nov. 8, 2025
Southfield home baker Camrey Smith, a Schoolcraft College culinary arts graduate, made her debut on Season 12 of Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship. Competing for a $25,000 prize, Smith impressed judges with her ginger citrus olive oil cakes and helped her team win the main challenge. Read more
Articulation agreements make it easier for transfer students to complete
degrees at OU
Oakland University News – Aug. 22, 2025
New articulation agreements between Oakland University and community colleges—including Schoolcraft—create clear transfer pathways for students. These agreements save time and money by mapping course equivalencies, reducing duplicate classes, and supporting degree completion. Read more
Best Online Colleges in Michigan 2026
University Magazine – Sept. 21, 2025
Looking for flexible, affordable online programs? University Magazine ranks the top online colleges in Michigan for 2026. Read more
New Funds & State and Federal Relations
New Funds
- $25,000 Heartfulness Endowed Advancement Fund for the greatest needs of the college including scholarships, wraparound services and special projects including wellness and community enrichment programs. Heartfulness is a global nonprofit dedicated to personal growth through meditation and raja yoga. The organization offers free resources and training to help individuals cultivate their inner calm, clarity, and compassion.
- $4,000 Ardis Reiner Scholarship Fund This scholarship was created to honor the remarkable life and career of Aldis Ann “Rusty” Reiner by her son Joseph, a Navy Veteran and transfer engineering alum from Schoolcraft College. Known as Rusty to her friends and family, she was cherished for her kindness, her ability to see the best in others, and the warmth of her unforgettable hugs. Her quick wit and smart comments could brighten any moment, no matter what the circumstance.
Rusty dedicated more than 40 years to her career at the DMC, where she built lifelong friendships and received numerous awards in recognition of her hard work and commitment.
Through this scholarship, her legacy of compassion and excellence lives on by supporting the next generation of Nursing and STEM students.
State and Federal Relations
- $750,000 state appropriations sponsored by Sen. Dayna Polehanki and Rep. Matt Koleszar for a collaborative between The Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) Local 2 union and Schoolcraft College to create a collaborative learning model that is new to Michigan. This unique partnership provides apprenticeship students additional opportunities as community college students in an experiential learning environment. These students will be able to access learning support services, tutoring, and access to SC BeWell, a 24-hour, seven days, 365 days per year mental health support, while enrolled at Schoolcraft.
The Foundation is awarding Winter Scholarships
👉 Head to schoolcraft.edu/scholarships to learn more and apply today!
Schoolcraft Offers Students, Alumni & Friends FREE Webinars
We are excited to offer monthly FREE webinars featuring national speakers. These webinars are an excellent way to enhance your business skills and broaden your knowledge. Topics include leadership, workplace fairness, technology, psychology, and many more, all led by a distinguished lineup of speakers. We encourage you to check them out and share your feedback! Remember, knowledge is power!
To register or to view past event recordings, please visit: alumlc.org/schoolcraft
Can’t make it to a webinar or miss one?
Here is a link to the library of previous presentations you can access free of charge!
AI and the Expansion of Human Potential
Zack Kass, Author and Global AI Advisor
Thursday, December 4th 2025 at 12:00 PM EST
How to Take Bold Action in the Face of Fear and Uncertainty
Ranjay Gulati, Best-Selling Author and Social Scientist
Tuesday, December 16th 2025 at 12:00 PM EST
How to Enhance Workplace Culture, Relationships, and Retention
Rob Volpe, Award-Winning Author
Thursday, January 8th 2026 at 12:00 PM EST
How Food, Mood, and Mindfulness Transform Wellbeing
Elizabeth Borelli, Bestselling Author
Thursday, January 15th 2026 at 12:00 PM EST
Why Great Leadership Begins with Self-Understanding
Margaret Andrews, Author and Executive Instructor
Thursday, January 29th 2026 at 12:00 PM EST
Upcoming Events – Save the Date!
Alumni & Friends:
12/12/25: Schoolcraft Retiree Holiday Party
1/23/26: Giving & Growth Series: Economic Outlook
3/20/26: Giving & Growth Series
4/3/26: Faculty & Staff Lip Sync Battle
8/14/26: Schoolcraft Night at the Tigers game!
10/22/26: CulEx 2026
Show your support for Schoolcraft College students and programs today.