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Today for our Staff Spotlight we’re sitting down with Dr. Karen Young, who recently joined Schoolcraft College as the new ARC Program Coordinator, with responsibility for the program. (ARC stands for Alternative Route to Teacher Certification.) Dr. Young teaches part-time at Schoolcraft in EDUC, and her previous role was the Coordinator of Curriculum, Assessment, and Peer Mentoring for the ARC program. She is the Director of the Michigan Alternate Route Network.

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Dr. Young! First, welcome to Schoolcraft College! Could you please tell us a little about your professional background and education and what led you to Schoolcraft College?

Dr. Karen Young: Thank you, I am excited to be a part of the Schoolcraft College community full time. Throughout my 24 years in education, I have had the opportunity to be a part of public and charter schools holding a variety of positions. I began my career teaching middle school in Milford and then spent eight years in California holding teaching and administrative positions. Once back in Michigan, I worked for K12 through their online charter schools as an administrator and opened Niji-Iro Dual Immersion Elementary School for the Livonia Public School District serving as their first principal. 

Opening Niji-Iro Dual Immersion Elementary School and serving as the principal for three years has been a highlight of my career. Not only did I learn a lot, but the amazing cultural experiences and relationships I built will last a lifetime. I also have taught teacher education courses for the University of California San Diego, Madonna University, and Schoolcraft College.

I grew up in Livonia with Schoolcraft College being a part of my life. My dad taught at Schoolcraft and we visited the campus often. When I opened Niji-Iro, I met with Dr. (Dennis) Genig to learn more about the program and how it could assist some of our Japanese teachers to earn certification in Michigan. I was so excited about all the program had to offer that I reached out to Dr. Genig to join the part-time faculty. I begin teaching in the ARC program in 2017.

Schoolcraft College: Can you please explain what being the ARC Program Coordinator entails?

Dr. Karen Young: As the ARC Program Coordinator my job entails overseeing all details of the ARC program. This includes accreditation, state program approval, curriculum oversight, monitoring of candidates and teachers, approval of interim and standard teaching certificates, and working with faculty and staff on continuous program improvement.

Schoolcraft College: We’re sure you and your team will be building off the great foundation that Dr. Genig put in place. What are some of the next steps?

Dr. Karen Young: Dr. Genig has developed a strong ARC program. I do believe that Schoolcraft’s ARC program offers the best support due to the enhanced peer mentoring model that is included. The ARC program has an additional layer of support by contracting with a peer mentor at each teacher’s school requiring implementation of Schoolcraft’s peer mentoring activities. I was fortunate enough to study our peer mentoring program in depth through my doctoral dissertation. 

The peer mentoring program truly highlights best practice to retain and support new teachers. Our program guarantees consistent support to new teachers from the school (peer mentors) and the college (instructional coaches).

Dr. Karen Young, ARC Program Coordinator

Our next step is to look at current program offerings and compare them to the newly released state grade bands for teacher certification. While completing this process we will also be carefully looking at all curriculum and assessments for our upcoming accreditation visit. 

The ARC program is preparing to offer the new grade bands PK-3, 3-6, 5-9, and 7-12. 

Schoolcraft College: What does Schoolcraft College’s ARC Program offer that sets it apart from others? How does it work and why should people enroll in our program?

Dr. Karen Young:  Schoolcraft College’s ARC Program offers a unique wraparound system of support for each new teacher. While alternate route teaching programs do get teachers into the classroom sooner, Schoolcraft College’s ARC Program requires rigorous training and support at least a semester prior to teaching and during a teacher’s first three years in the classroom. The ARC Program is committed to developing effective teachers who will positively impact our future leaders. I wish I would have had access to such well-designed support during my early years of teaching.

The ARC program offers two programs: one for those seeking initial teacher certification (Traditional) and one for those seeking to add additional endorsements onto their current teacher certificate (IPP).

For those seeking initial certification, an earned bachelor’s degree is needed. The appropriate Michigan Test for Teacher Certification (MTTC) needs to be passed prior to beginning the ARC Program. The program then consists of four pre-certification classes along with a 60-hour practicum to build a foundation before entering the classroom. These classes can be taken in one semester or two. 

After certification, for three years the teacher receives peer mentoring and instructional coaching support along with additional coursework to assist with connecting theory to the classroom and building effectiveness in core teaching practices. At the end of meeting the program/state requirements, a Standard Teaching Certificate is issued.

Many teachers who currently hold a teaching certificate are looking to add an endorsement to support their school community by filling open teaching positions. Through our Individual Program Plan (IPP), we assist currently certified teachers in earning a new endorsement. When teachers apply to our IPP program, previously completed coursework is used to waive some of the program requirements. In many cases the pre-certification coursework is already met through traditional teacher preparation programs. 

With passage of the MTTC, an interim certificate can be award immediately. The teacher then receives peer mentoring and instructional coaching when teaching under their new endorsement area and may need to complete additional coursework, while teaching, that was not met through their previous program. When all program/state requirements are met, the new endorsement area is added to their Standard Teaching Certificate. Go here for more information.

Schoolcraft College: Where are you located and how can people find out more about our ARC Program?

Dr. Karen Young: I am in the Health Sciences Center, Office 583. If you would like to learn more about the ARC program, please visit the website or call 734-462-4335.

Schoolcraft College: Thank you, Dr. Young! Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Dr. Karen Young: I am honored to be coordinating the ARC Program. I love that I can support teachers and continue to impact the educational community. 

Schoolcraft College faculty are current practitioners who provide unique insight into the variety of practices and constant changes within education. Combined, our faculty and staff have over 468 years of experience in the field of teaching. It is my goal to be an advocate for alternate route certification programs as a highly effective way to train teachers. We need to look differently at how we are developing teachers. 

Designing schools to have a combination of traditionally trained teachers and alternate route teachers with varied life experiences from previous careers provides students an amazing opportunity to connect learning to the world.

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Join us Sunday for live performances beginning at noon

For the first time in three years, Schoolcraft College once again will be the site of some of the best jazz musicians in the country, especially from Detroit and throughout Michigan, performing live at the Michigan Jazz Festival on Sunday, July 17. The free event starts at noon and features more than 40 bands performing in venues across campus, mainly in the VisTaTech Center. 

"27th annual Michigan Jazz festival" written under an illustration of a jazz band performing
This graphic for the Michigan Jazz Festival was designed by Weston Parker, a Computer Graphics Technology student at Schoolcraft College.

The last live performance was in 2019; the 2021 program was presented online. 

Dr. Barton Polot, who served the Music Department at Schoolcraft College for nearly 20 years, including as Department Chair, encourages everyone to attend.

“You know, there are roughly a dozen jazz and blues festivals all over the state each summer,” he said. “The Michigan Jazz Festival stands out, however, with seven simultaneous stages. Nothing else compares.  

“All day long, at any given time, jazz lovers can choose from a variety of musical styles and talents, familiar names as well as first-timers, the best jazz musicians in the state, all within a few steps. Add to that convenient free parking, air-conditioned comfort, great food and Schoolcraft College’s award-winning craft beer. Did I mention that attendance is free?”

A jazz band performing on stage
The VisTaTech Center will be the site of the Michigan Jazz Festival on Sunday, July 17.

New to the Festival this year is the Michigan Jazz Festival All-Star High School Band under the direction of Vincent Chandler. The group will perform at 2 p.m. Also new are two in-person jazz education clinics, the first of which starts at 9:00 a.m.

Weston Parker, a Computer Graphics Technology student at Schoolcraft College, designed the graphic for this year’s Michigan Jazz Festival.

Here is the schedule of the performances and venues:

Leven Open Air Stage – The Big Tent

  • Noon – Phil Ogilvie’s Rhythm Kings (PORK)
  • 1:30 p.m. – Oopapada
  • 3:00 p.m. – Terry Lower Trio & vocalist Edye Evans Hyde
  • 4:30 p.m. – Dave McMurray
  • 6:00 p.m. – Dave Bennett Quartet
  • 7:30 p.m. – Diego Rivera Quintet

Bill Bolle Presentation Stage – Kehrl Auditorium

  • 12:30 p.m. – Allen Dennard Quintet
  • 2:00 p.m. – Jon-Erik Kellso and friends
  • 3:30 p.m. – Louis Jones Quartet
  • 5:00 p.m. – Anthony Stanco Quintet
  • 6:30 p.m. – Jonathon Muir-Cotton and Expressions
  • 8:00 p.m. – Sean Dobbins Trio

Jerry McKenzie Rathskeller Stage – Lower Waterman

  • 12:15 p.m. – Russ Macklem Quintet
  • 1:45 p.m. – Cary Kocher and Sarah D’Angelo
  • 3:15 p.m. –  Doc’s Holiday Tribute Band
  • 4:45 p.m. – Vincent Chandler Experience
  • 6:15 p.m. – Ron Kischuk: Masters of Music Tbones
  • 7:45 p.m. – Lunar Octet

Vosgerchian Solo Piano & More – Reynolds Room

  • 12:30 p.m. – Michael Malis
  • 1:45 p.m. – Bill Meyer
  • 3:15 p.m. – Jordan Young Organ Trio
  • 4:45 p.m. – Ryan Bills / Trevor Lamb Sextet
  • 6:15 p.m. – Matthew LoRusso Quintet
  • 7:45 p.m. – Brandon Williams

Salden Big Band Stage – DiPonio Room

  • 12:15 p.m. – Planet D Nonet
  • 2:00 p.m. – MJF All-Star High School Jazz Band
  • 3:45 p.m. – Russ Miller and the Jazz Orchestra
  • 5:30 p.m. – CSO
  • 7:15 p.m. – Jeff Trudell Big Band

Music Hall Future of Jazz Stage – Henry’s Café 

  • 12:00 p.m. – Millennium Trio
  • 1:30 p.m. – Ellen Wallenfang Quintet
  • 3:00 p.m. – Playing with the Pros
  • 4:30 p.m. – Notre Dame Prep Jazz Combo
  • 6:00 p.m. – Nate Topolewski Quartet

Livonia Community Foundation Cabaret Stage – American Harvest

  • 12:15 p.m. – Olivia Van Goor and William Bennett
  • 1:30 p.m. – Lori Lefèvre and Chris Buzzelli
  • 2:45 p.m. – Barbara Ware and Cliff Monear
  • 4:00 p.m. – Kate Patterson and Chuck Shermetaro
  • 5:15 p.m. – Naima Shamborguer and Sven Anderson
  • 6:30 p.m. – Jiana Hunter and Scott Gwinnell

Michigan Council For the Arts Clinic Stage – Forum Auditorium

  • 9:00 a.m. – Dwight Adams — Jazz Improvisation clinic
  • 11:00 a.m. – Ellie Martin — Jazz Vocal Improvisation clinic

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Ocelots on all teams did outstanding academic work

Schoolcraft College will recognize its top student-athletes on all teams from the 2021-22 year with a ceremony on Friday, July 15. Awards from the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) are noted. Congratulations to all!

2021-22 Individual Academic Awards

Student-athleteHonors
Women’s soccer
Jordan CampbellNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Cailee CorsentinoAll MCCAA & All Conference
Riley GrahamNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Emily GurneyNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Emma HughesNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Paige KrollNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Neysa LyonMCCAA All Conference
Adyson McCulloughAll MCCAA & All Conference
Taylor MeadowsAll MCCAA & All Conference
Ceceilya MernattiNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Adriana SapiaAll MCCAA & All Conference
Faith StaleyNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Men’s soccer
Gavin BroseNJCAA 1st; All MCCAA & All Conference
John EvangelistaNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Nicklas LemaNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Corey MatthewsNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Alex (James) NevilleNJCAA 2nd ; All MCCAA & All Conference
Joshua PierceAll MCCAA & All Conference
Drew TappenNJCAA 2nd ; All MCCAA & All Conference
Jordan ThomasNJCAA 2nd ; All MCCAA & All Conference
Volleyball
Sedona CoonNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Hannah FolzNJCAA 1st; All MCCAA & All Conference
Alexa RichardsonNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Valdes, AndreaAll MCCAA & All Conference
Softball
Sophie BaterNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Bridget BogdenAll MCCAA & All Conference
Erin BresslerAll MCCAA & All Conference
Kathryn KoszykowskiNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Madelyn LathamNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Kiersten MetzNJCAA 1st; All MCCAA & All Conference
Autumn ReedNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Baseball
Cole AtkinsonNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Jack CronynAll MCCAA & All Conference
Joseph ElwellNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Cooper GeanAll MCCAA & All Conference
Garrett HallMCCAA All Conference
Landon KempainenAll MCCAA & All Conference
Joshua MichaelsMCCAA All Conference
Jonathan SabudaAll MCCAA & All Conference
Gabriel SmithNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Brandon StricklandNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Women’s bowling
Allison LittleNJCAA 1st; All MCCAA & All Conference
Lydia WesenbergMCCAA All Conference
Men’s bowling
Erik BungeNJCAA 3rd ; All MCCAA & All Conference
Women’s basketball
Shalah ArderNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Danielle BryantMCCAA All Conference
Natasha CarterNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Nour ElzeinNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
LaZae MosleyNJCAA 3rd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Samantha SmithAll MCCAA & All Conference
Justina SzalkowskiNJCAA 1st; All MCCAA & All Conference
Makaiya ThomasNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Men’s basketball
Ashton NanceNJCAA 2nd; All MCCAA & All Conference
Devin WhiteMCCAA All Conference
Teams achieving NJCAA & MCCAA awards for earning a
3.0 (or higher) GPA
Softball3.35
Women’s soccer3.18

Award criteria:

  • NJCAA Academic First Team: 4.0 GPA
  • NJCAA Academic Second Team: 3.80-3.99 GPA
  • NJCAA Academic Third Team: 3.60-3.79 GPA
  • All MCCAA & All Conference: 3.20 or above GPA
  • All Conference: 3.00-3.19 GPA

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Gavin Brose wins top honor from the Michigan Community College Athletic Association

Gavin Brose holding soccer ball
Gavin Brose credits support from Amy Proctor, Student-Athlete Support System Coordinator; and coach Rick Larson with helping him win the Dick Shilts Male Athlete of the Year award.

Schoolcraft College soccer player Gavin Brose was just about ready to give up the sport he loves. In addition to fighting through the usual injuries that soccer dishes out, Brose also suffers from a chronic illness that has hospitalized upon occasion. His hard work and dedication paid off, however, as he has been named the Dick Shilts Male Athlete of the Year, which recognizes outstanding student-athletes in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA).

The award is named for the former Athletic Director at Kalamazoo Valley Community College and the longest-serving MCCAA president.

Brose started 11 of 12 games for the Ocelots, scoring 6 goals with 11 assists and had 2 game-winning goals. He was the MCCAA Men’s Soccer Player of the Year and earned All-MCCAA honors. 

Brose said his favorite match came at home against Ancilla. 

“We had to win to make the playoffs,” he said. “I made what might be the longest goal in Schoolcraft College history – I shot it right off the kickoff and it went in. We ended up winning 3-0.”

With his passion for soccer reignited, Brose has a trip to Germany planned for this summer for a tryout to possibly play professionally. 

An Exercise Science student, Brose has a 3.93 GPA and earned a perfect 4.0 for the 2021-22 school year. He won Schoolcraft College Student-Athlete of the Month, is a member of the first class of Theta Chi Alpha, the national honor society for student-athletes at two-year schools, and volunteers at youth soccer camps.

“To win this award is humbling and reminded me that hard work pays off and with the right people around you and the right support you can go a long way, which is what I got here at Schoolcraft,” he said. “It’s a team effort, really. I’m glad to accept the award, but I accept it on behalf of the whole team who worked with me.”

Brose, a graduate of Livonia’s Adlai E. Stevenson High School, was quick to praise and thank Amy Proctor, Student-Athlete Support System Coordinator; and coach Rick Larson for their support. 

“They took time out to work with me and support me and I really appreciate that,” he said.

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Increasing programming for working professionals is a focus

Schoolcraft College’s continuing education department, Personal and Professional Learning (PPL), recently earned program certification from the Learning Resources Network (LERN), recognizing the College’s commitment to and excellence in non-credit courses.

The Learning Resources Network, an industry leader in continuing education, awards the LERN Program Certification to continuing education programs in universities, colleges and public schools across the country that meet the most rigorous quality standards, including:

  • Programming that aligns with the organization’s central mission
  • Running and analyzing critical programmatic data
  • Developing relevant course programming
  • Establishing appropriate customer service standards
  • Identifying marketing channels relevant to top segments
  • Increasing registrations year over year
  • Improving process efficiency
PPL team standing with a large PPL sign
Schoolcraft College’s Personal and Professional Learning team includes (left to right) Dr. Jodie Beckley, Director of Personal and Professional Learning; Trennis D. Sweatt, Programming Coordinator; and Felicia Bannan, Programming and Promotions Coordinator.

“We are excited and honored to be one of the continuing education programs recognized with the LERN certification award and will continue to bring fresh, relevant programming to our surrounding communities,” said Dr. Jodie Beckley, Director of Personal and Professional Learning. “Having our PPL program analyzed by an objective third party with benchmarks and standards assures our students and community that PPL is a leader in quality non-credit programming and has a strong community focus.”

PPL offers a wide variety of non-credit classes to help students bolster their career, support a hobby or just try something new. 

“We offer a variety of career training programs to help people upskill in their profession, or re-skill for a career shift if that is their goal,” Dr. Beckley said. Some of those training opportunities include:

  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Exam Preparation
  • Certificate in Nonprofit Management
  • Certificate in Event Planning
  • Certificate in Dementia Care
  • Part 107 Exam Preparation for the Remote Pilot (Drones)
  • Certificate in Google IT Support
  • Photography Certificate

“One of our goals is to increase the amount of programming available for working professionals in our community,” Dr. Beckley said. “We continue to add new programs to our lineup that support people to better their careers and lives.”

Several new courses have been added for the Fall 2022 schedule. These include:

  • Certified Ethical Hacker
  • Accounts Payable Specialist
  • Java Programmer + Python Developer

The above classes will be offered as online advanced career training programs, which students can complete at their own pace.

In addition, three new photography classes have been added for those pursuing their photography certificate, or just wanting to add to their skill set: Commercial Photography, Travel Photography, and Real Estate Photography. Also new for food enthusiasts are Passion for Chocolates; a holiday desserts class; and a food and wine pairing class. 

The Fall 2022 schedule is available now. For more information, go to schoolcraft.edu/ppl.

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Community colleges will be focus of Western Wayne Business Leadership Banquet

Dr. Glenn Cerny, President of Schoolcraft College, will join other community college leaders on the panel of the 2022 Western Wayne Business Leadership Banquet on Tuesday, October 4. 

Held at The Henry, Autograph Collection, in Dearborn, this prestigious and influential gathering brings together Western Wayne’s business and political leaders in a forum designed to connect people to initiatives and opportunities across metro Detroit.

Dr. Cerny will be joined by Dr. Curtis Ivery, Chancellor, Wayne County Community College District; and Russell Kavalhuna, President, Henry Ford College. Jackie Paige, WWJ 950-AM, will moderate the conversation.

“Workforce is the No. 1 issue for all industries right now, and the community colleges have an important voice in helping us with that challenge,” said Dan West, President and CEO of the Livonia Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to hearing from these college leaders and connecting them with our region’s industry leaders.”

Dr. Cerny speaking at a podium
Dr. Glenn Cerny, President of Schoolcraft College, will join other community college leaders on the panel of this year’s Western Wayne Business Leadership Banquet.

Schoolcraft College’s ongoing partnerships and dialogue with area businesses help to expand program offerings, inform important curriculum updates and better prepare students to enter the workforce. The American Association of Community Colleges Awards of Excellence program recently recognized Schoolcraft nationally in these areas.

Schoolcraft College was a finalist in Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership and was the only Michigan community college named a finalist in this category.

The new Health Sciences Center (HSC), which officially opened this spring, is the latest example of the outstanding collaboration the College has forged with area businesses to create a win-win solution for students and partners

Built on the site of the former Applied Science building, the HSC added 36,700 square feet to the existing 74,100 square feet, of which about 56% was renovated. 

The 110,800-square-foot facility strengthens the College’s commitment to students in the health sciences and will provide a pipeline of talented graduates who are much needed by area healthcare providers. Trinity Health Michigan, Beaumont Health, Michigan Medicine and Henry Ford Health System all have facilities in Livonia or near Schoolcraft College, including the on-campus Livonia Medical Center. 

“I’m honored to be a member of the panel at the Western Wayne Business Leadership Banquet and am very much looking forward to what I believe will be an interesting, engaging and meaningful conversation about what community colleges have to offer and how we serve our students and the community,” Dr. Cerny said.

The 2022 Western Wayne Business Leadership Banquet is presented by Beaumont Health in partnership with the Livonia Chamber of Commerce and the Conference of Western Wayne.

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24 students across 8 disciplines recognized

The Kehrl Academic Excellence Awards are awarded each year to the top students in the areas of Art, Communication Arts, Culinary Arts, English, Health Information Technology, Mathematics, Police and Fire. Faculty from each area developed the criteria for each award and then selects the awardees based on the requisite criteria. 

The Kehrl Academic Excellence Awards are made possible by the Schoolcraft College Foundation through the generosity of the Floyd and Marian Kehrl Family, supporters of Schoolcraft College since 1964.

Here are this year’s winners:

Art

  • Annabelle Smith
  • Carrick Hill
  • Penny Livingston

Communication Arts

  • Andrew Kelly
  • Joshua Mohlman
  • Samantha Dul

Culinary Arts

  • Isabella Breazeale
  • Lauren Timm
  • Hannah Folz

English

  • Best Modern English Grammar student: Kyra Dickson
  • Best Building Writing Skills student: Joaquaina Perry
  • Most Improved Developmental English student: Heather Kahler
  • Global Citizenship Award: Daniel Shahollari

Health Information Technology

  • Jarrod Steckle
  • Tallon Ora
  • Lisa Locechli

Pythagorean Prize-Mathematics

  • Olivia Hudson: First-prize winner
  • Joseph Rosato: Second-prize winner
  • Russell Clark: Third-prize winner

Police Academy

  • John Dyda
  • Kevin Koberg
  • Kelly McLaughlin

Fire Academy

  • James Brown
  • Austin Saunders

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Your credits from a four-year school could be applied toward an associate degree.

Learning, of course, is the goal of any college experience. Part of that education means familiarizing yourself with some unfamiliar terms. Today, we take a look at what a reverse transfer is.

Reverse transfer: From there to here

One of the main reasons students attend Schoolcraft College is to complete their general education requirements and earn other credits to then transfer to a four-year school to complete a bachelor’s degree.

A reverse transfer works the same way – only in, well, reverse. In other words, if you’ve earned credits at a four-year college or university, you can, in many instances, transfer those credits back to Schoolcraft College and use them toward an associate degree, for example.

The process starts with the four-year school. As an example, the University of Michigan-Dearborn has a Reverse Transfer Agreement with Schoolcraft College with the following requirements:

Four people working together at a table
With a reverse transfer, you might be able to obtain an associate degree while you pursue a bachelor’s degree.
  • 40+ credit hours earned at Schoolcraft College
  • 20+ credits earned at UM-Dearborn
  • Minimum GPA of 2.0 at UM-Dearborn

If students want to pursue obtaining an associate degree, they need to inquire with their four-year institution about the reverse transfer process. Please note there is a form that needs to be completed with the four-year school that must be sent with the transcript. This is how the Records Office of Schoolcraft College knows that the transcript received is for reverse transfer.

So if you’re a student pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a four-year school, see if a reverse transfer works for you. It never hurts to have additional credentials on your resume. 

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Consider attending an event in your area

To help celebrate, recognize and understand more about Juneteenth, TaQuilla Kusero, Director of Equity and Engagement, thoughtfully provided the following essay:

Juneteenth, or June 19th, has become one of the most celebrated holidays that marked the end of slavery in the United States. Though the Emancipation Proclamation took effect on January 1, 1863, most confederate states, and slaveholding border states, continued to enslave Black Americans until Union troops arrived to confront the resistance and enforce the laws over the next few years. In fact, owners of enslaved Black Americans would flee the fighting in the East and move to neighboring states like Texas to escape the Union Army’s grasp, bringing along enslaved people with them. 

TaQuilla Kusero headshot
TaQuilla Kusero, Director of Equity and Engagement

It was not until two and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, June 19, 1865, that Union troops reached the long holdout city, Galveston, Texas. This incident marked the day the Union took control of the area and announced to the enslaved people still held there that they were now free from the horrors of slavery. 

The original announcement stated:

“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.”

This day marked the beginning of what would become a second independence day in the United States and commonly referred to as Juneteenth. Celebrations began the very next year and typically included, music, food and religious gatherings. This period also brought about what is known as the Reconstruction era. Between 1865 and 1877 the nation attempted to bring southern states back into the political process and create a new relationship with newly freed Black Americans, but this period was short-lived, as a new wave of segregationist laws and restrictions effectively made black Americans second-class citizens for another 90 years until the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed. 

During this time Juneteenth celebrations diminished, then experienced a resurgence in the 1970s-1990s. The recognition of Juneteenth has grown by leaps and bounds over the past two decades as awareness of it has spread through the media, popular TV shows and statewide celebrations. Over 40 states now recognize Juneteenth as a holiday, with a handful of those states working to establish it as an official paid federal holiday.  

How Juneteenth is celebrated is a very individual practice, just like most other holidays. Some celebrate with grand outdoor events, including food, rodeos, live performances, historical reenactments and fireworks. Some use it as a time to reconnect with nature by going hiking, camping or to the beach. Others use it as a time to continue the fight for equitable rights in the U.S. The true embodiment of this holiday is that you are free to celebrate it the way you see fit.  

If you are unfamiliar with the holiday and would like to take part in its traditions, please find an event near you. It is one thing to learn about the history in a book or article, and another to participate in the festival of freedom to which this holiday represents. 

The Detroit Free Press has a list of Juneteenth events.

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Today for our Staff Spotlight story we’re sitting down Chef Heather Moore, our Director of Culinary Operations and Adjunct Professor. Chef Moore, a Certified Master Baker (CMB) and a Certified Executive Pastry Chef, is a Schoolcraft College graduate who has performed a wide variety of roles with the College.

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Chef Moore! You have been a familiar face around Schoolcraft College, first as a student, then as an instructor and a director. Please tell us a little about how you got interested in Culinary Arts and what led you to Schoolcraft College.

Chef Heather Moore: When I graduated high school I was pretty set that I was going to be an elementary school teacher. I even completed the kiddie campus program at Canton High School, which was a program to prepare you for early childhood education. I completed one year at Eastern Michigan University and realized that I really needed a change. 

That’s when a friend of mine mentioned that he heard about a new Baking and Pastry program at Schoolcraft College. It immediately piqued my interest because if I’m being honest I had no idea you could even go to school for baking and pastry arts. From the moment I started the program it all clicked for me and I was where I was meant to be. I loved the environment, I loved the creativity, and I loved being surrounded by others that enjoyed the same things that I did. It is kind of neat that I did still end up teaching just college and not elementary school. 

Chef Heather Moore
Chef Heather Moore, Director of Culinary Operations and Adjunct Professor.

Schoolcraft College: Can you please explain what being the Director of Culinary Operations entails?

Chef Heather Moore: As the director of Culinary Operations I oversee the department that operates all of the food venues on campus, with the exception of American Harvest, which is run by the Culinary Arts program. This includes Conference and Events, Henry’s and Main Street Café in the VisTaTech Center; JC Café in the Jeffress Center; wholesale food or the Livonia Medical Center; Ocelot Market at the St. Joe’s Sports Center; The Elite Market and Smoothie Bar at the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center; and Ocelot Market Express at the Fitness Center. (And more to come!)

Schoolcraft College: What does a “typical” day look like for you and your team?

Chef Heather Moore: Busy! Our team has been amazing this past year of adapting to so many changes and dealing with the difficulties of labor shortages and supply chain issues. Because we oversee all of the food venues on campus, being a member of our team means every day could look a little different. Conference and events have begun to really pick back up. Our top-notch service staff is focusing on executing a new menu that provides a variety of comfort levels for large gatherings. 

Our team of talented chefs and culinary art student employees prepare our food from scratch for our venues as well as events. The St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center has kept our team at the Elite Market and Smoothie Bar very busy with weekly tournaments. Our smoothie bar team makes around 1,000 smoothies a weekend during these tournaments. 

Schoolcraft College: What’s on the horizon for Culinary Operations? Can you give us a sneak preview of things to look for this spring and summer and into the fall?

Chef Heather Moore:  Lots of exciting things are in the future for dining at Schoolcraft! We are currently in the process of opening an Ocelot Market inside the Manufacturing & Engineering Center (MEC) as well as the Masco building on our main campus. JC Café will be adding in a Starbucks barista menu in the next few weeks. 

I am most excited about the VisTaTech 2.0 project, which breaks ground the beginning of August. American Harvest will be remodeled and expanded, and several new things are being built. This includes a state-of-the-art demonstration lab, a beautiful pre-function space that will connect a hallway we use for events to the main entrance of the building, a new Main Street Café, a prep kitchen that is shared space for Main Street Café and the demonstration kitchen, and a brew pub and kitchen to service it.  

With all of that being said, this year will look a little different. Henry’s will continue in a grab-and-go format with expanded offerings, and a temporary Main Street Café will occupy some of the currently unused Henry’s space. 

Schoolcraft College: What are some highlights for you, both as a student and in your career?

Chef Heather Moore: My highlight as a student without a doubt was being able apprentice under Chef Joseph Decker, Certified Master Pastry Chef (CMPC). It was an unforgettable learning experience that I was fortunate enough to have. Another highlight as a student was building relationships with the other students. Your classmates and instructors truly become your family, and that bond lasts a lifetime. 

chefs in a kitchen
Chef Heather Moore, Director of Culinary Operations and Adjunct Professor, works with Crystal Sheeka, student employee (middle) and Chef Allie DiMaria, Pastry Chef (right) on taste testing some new menu selections.

As far as highlights of my career, I can truly say that coming back to Schoolcraft as an adjunct instructor was one of my top highlights. It felt like coming home, and it was surreal at first to be teaching the next generation of culinarians what I was taught within the same walls. 

The other highlight of my career was obtaining my CMB certification through the Retail Bakers of America (RBA). Since obtaining my certification I have also become a lead judge for the RBA. It’s been amazing to be able to travel to different testing locations and meet amazing bakers from all over the country.

Schoolcraft College: What’s your favorite dish to make and why?

Chef Heather Moore: I wouldn’t say there is one particular dish that I like to make, but rather my favorite thing to do is plan events and menus around a theme. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a sucker for a great theme. I love the whole process of planning and then seeing all of the details come to life. It’s fun to get the whole team involved and be creative together. 

Schoolcraft College: Thank you, Chef Moore! Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Chef Heather Moore: I would like to say thank you to the Schoolcraft community for being so supportive and understanding of our department while we undergo so many large changes and challenges. I am very excited about the future of our department and the exciting things you will be seeing in the near future. 

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Brynne Barnes started the work in 2015

English Professor Brynne Barnes is a prolific author of children’s books, with a focus on celebrating living in a diverse world. Her latest work is Black Girl Rising, which is to be released on Tuesday, June 28, everywhere books are sold. Professor Barnes graciously answered the following questions to provide insight into her books, her creative process and what’s next.

Q: Please tell us a little about your latest work, Black Girl Rising. What’s it about, what inspired you to write it, when did you start and when did you finish?

Professor Barnes: This is a love letter to Black girls, to Black girlhood, to women everywhere. It’s the book I needed, wanted to read as a girl. This is a tribute to our younger selves and our present selves. Children’s literature has a way of reminding us of all the most important things – to listen to ourselves, our inner voices about what we can do, who we are, and who we can be. It’s not up to the world to tell us who we are; it’s our job to tell the world. I first started this book in 2015 (if you can believe it) and completed it by 2016. It sold in 2017.

Q: Can you give us some insight into your creative process? How do you connect with your “muse”?

A copy of "Black Girl Rising"
Black Girl Rising will be released June 28.

Professor Barnes: For me, it all starts with a verse and a voice. When I hear something that catches my ear, I write it down; it keeps playing in my mind over and over again like a record spinning round and round. Then, I hear something else — another verse, and so on and so forth. The more I write, the more I hear. This voice actually took me by surprise, and it intrigued me because it sounds like someone doubting herself, playing back the voices that tell her she can’t, she shouldn’t, she won’t, she’s not enough, or she’s too much. 

These are all things that we’ve heard before in some way, shape, or form. When we internalize doubt like that – what others tell us – we cannot hear the truth about how magically wonderful we truly are. That’s the thing – the light is always there. We just have to let it shine and get to know ourselves for who we truly are.

Q: What sort of relationship do you have with the illustrators of your books? Do you communicate or how does that work?

Professor Barnes: Great question! In most cases, we do not communicate until after the book is done. However, with my last two titles — Books Do Not Have Wings and now, Black Girl Rising — I was very involved. My editor, the art director, the illustrator, and I discussed our concepts for the illustrations and how they might come to life on the page along with the words. I actually ended up making a mock-up of the book with the words on the page and photographs that depicted certain ideas I had about conceptualizing the visual story.

Q: When we last chatted last year, you had a couple of other books in the pipeline. Can you give us any update on those?

Portrait photo of Brynne Barnes
Brynne Barnes is the author of Black Girl Rising.

Professor Barnes: Yes, I’m happy to say that Chronicle will be releasing the sequel to Black Girl Rising entitled Black Boy Rising in 2025. The book that Simon & Schuster picked up, When I See You, will be releasing in September of 2023.

Q: You’ve been an English Professor at Schoolcraft College since 2014. As it appears we’ve finally emerged from the pandemic, what are some of the lessons you’ll take away as a teacher moving forward?

Professor Barnes: I’ve learned that nothing compares to the human connection; this is the cornerstone of everything that we do as professors. The more invested you are in reaching your students, the more you’ll find yourself inspired.

Q: Thank you, Professor Barnes. Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Professor Barnes: Writing and teaching are great acts of love, and it is my greatest joy to share my greatest loves with the Schoolcraft family and children around the world.

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Ocelots earn national and conference recognition

Schoolcraft College’s student-athletes proved their academic excellence over the past year with recognition by both the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and the Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA). 

Student athlete Justina
Women’s basketball player Justina Szalkowski has earned a 4.0 GPA for two consecutive academic years.

A total of 16 student-athletes achieved a 4.0 GPA in either the Fall 2021 or Winter 2022 semester. In addition, six student-athletes earned a 4.0 GPA for the entire 2021-22 academic year:

  • Gavin Brose, men’s soccer
  • Hannah Folz, volleyball
  • Allison Little, women’s bowling
  • Kiersten Metz, softball
  • Justina Szalkowski, women’s basketball (second year in a row)
  • Jayden Thurmand, women’s soccer

“I want to congratulate our student-athletes on their outstanding work in the classroom over the past academic year,” said Cali Crawford, Director of Athletics. “Our student-athletes are true multi-taskers with many responsibilities, but they make sure the ‘student’ part of ‘student-athlete’ always comes first.”

Student-athletes who earned a 4.0 in 2021-22

NameSportSemester Earned 4.0Awards
Gavin BroseMen’s soccerBothNJCAA 1st, All MCCAA & All Conference
Hannah FolzVolleyballBothNJCAA 1st , All MCCAA & All Conference
Allison LittleWomen’s bowlingBothNJCAA 1st, All MCCAA & All Conference
Kiersten MetzSoftballBothNJCAA 1st, All MCCAA & All Conference
Justina SzalkowskiWomen’s basketballBothNJCAA 1st, All MCCAA & All Conference
Jayden ThurmandWomen’s soccerBothN/A
Shalah ArderWomen’s basketballWinterNJCAA 2nd,  All MCCAA & All Conference
Sophie BaterSoftballWinterNJCAA 3rd,  All MCCAA & All Conference
Tyler BrownMen’s bowlingFallN/A
Jordan CampbellWomen’s soccerFallNJCAA 3rd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Sedona CoonVolleyballFallNJCAA 2nd, All MCCAA & All Conference
FaithAnn DennisWomen’s soccerFallN/A
Joseph ElwellBaseballWinterNJCAA 2nd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Riley GrahamWomen’s soccerFallNJCAA 2nd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Emma HughesWomen’s soccerWinterNJCAA 2nd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Kathryn KoszykowskiSoftballFallNJCAA 2nd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Madelyn LathamSoftballFallNJCAA 2nd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Miranda McIntoshWomen’s soccerWinterN/A
Ceceilya MernattiWomen’s soccerFallNJCAA 3rd, All MCCAA & All Conference
Carmen RaadWomen’s soccerWinterN/A
Drew TappenMen’s soccerFallNJCAA 2nd,  All MCCAA & All Conference
Makaiya ThomasWomen’s basketballFallNJCAA 2nd,  All MCCAA & All Conference
Student-athletes must earn at least 24 credits in the year to be considered.

Requirements:

  • NJCAA Academic 1st Team 4.0 GPA
  • NJCAA Academic 2nd Team 3.80-3.99 GPA
  • NJCAA Academic 3rd Team 3.60-3.79 GPA
  • All MCCAA & All Conference 3.20 or above GPA
  • All Conference 3.00-3.19 GPA