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Today for “Staff Spotlight” we’re sitting down with Tammy Thomson, Director of our Business Development Center. Tammy recently added oversight of the Conference & Event Services department to her responsibilities. 

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Tammy, and congratulations on this new addition to your role! To start out, could you please tell us about your position at Schoolcraft College, how long you have been with us and what your responsibilities will be?

Tammy Thomson: My responsibilities are two-fold.

Professional photo of a person with hands on table
Tammy Thomson earned an Associate in Engineering degree in 1996.

First, I will continue to lead a team of 10 in the Business Development Center (BDC). In BDC, through the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we help entrepreneurs and small businesses launch, grow and improve by delivering consulting services and training. Through the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), we provide training, one-on-one advice and support to businesses seeking contracts with the government. 

Last but not least, through Workforce Training Solutions (WTS), we deliver custom training to medium to large companies and support workforce development by contributing to efforts that upskill the workforce and meet the needs of local employers. 

In my additional role, I’m leading the Conference & Event Services team. This entails guiding and supporting a team of eight who handle rental of facilities across campus, including VisTaTech Center, Waterman Center, Applied Sciences (AS), Biomedical Technology Center (BTC), Bookstore, Bradner Library, Forum, Grote, Jeffress Center (JC), Liberal Arts (LA), Mercy Elite Sports Center (ESC), Manufacturing & Engineering Center (MEC), McDowell Center (MC), Physical Education (PE), Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC), Radcliff Center (RC), and St. Joe’s Sports Dome.

SC: We are proud that you are a Schoolcraft College alumni. You earned an Associate in Engineering degree in 1996. Could you please share a bit about your days as a student with us?

Tammy Thomson: (That was so long ago. Lol.) As a student at Schoolcraft College it was a wonderful experience. The highlights really included working in the Business Development Center. I have had the pleasure of working with some really amazing people over the years and have made lifelong friends.   

More specifically during my time as a student employee, I was given significant support and advice from my team and supervisors both professionally and in support of my educational goals. They were always flexible with my work schedule, allowing me to work around my class schedule. This really helped me continue to focus on my studies. 

As a student, I appreciated the faculty here at Schoolcraft and the overall culture that focused on student success. The small class sizes and ability to easily connect with instructors made my experience a very positive one. 

SC: As a student and then into your professional career, you’ve held several positions at the College. Please tell us a little about what you did at each of your stops.

Tammy Thomson: My entire time at the College I have worked in the Business Development Center. I began as a student employee supporting the PTAC program and spent 15 years in the program. Over the years, as I gained experience and furthered my education, I transitioned into roles with increasing responsibility within the team. Eventually, I became the PTAC Program Manager, responsible for writing and submitting our grant proposal to the Department of Defense and ensuring all deliverables of the grant were accomplished. 

In September 2008, the lead position with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) program opened up and I was encouraged to apply for the position. This opportunity would position me well to eventually direct the entire department. I stayed in that position until 2013 when the Director of the Business Development Center (BDC) position opened up, I applied for the position and was selected.

Tammy and another person working at a desk
Tammy Thomson has worked at Schoolcraft College in the Business Development Center, a key department that serves area businesses in a variety of ways.

SC: You have a combined 28 years at Schoolcraft College as a student, student-employee or staff member. We thank you for your service! What have been the highlights for you so far?

Tammy Thomson: Leading a team dedicated to helping local businesses launch and grow has been especially rewarding for me. The Business Development Center team is extremely dedicated to the success of businesses we serve and we are good at it! 

In addition, my recent transition into working with the Conference & Event Services team has shown me another strong team focused on the highest level of customer service and continued growth. Both of these teams make work not seem like work. 

SC: What do you like best about Schoolcraft College?

Tammy Thomson: The people. As I mentioned earlier, I have worked with and been guided through my career by so many intelligent and supportive colleagues and leaders, and that continues today. 

SC: Thank you, Tammy. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Tammy Thomson: Yes, I’d like to share this story. During my senior year of high school I was awarded a scholarship from the Plymouth Rotary Club. My mom and I attended a luncheon with the Rotary where I was presented my scholarship. At that luncheon, sitting at our table was the Schoolcraft College Dean, Ronald Griffith. When he learned I was coming to Schoolcraft in the fall, he told me to contact him and he would help me get a job on campus. I did what he told me and he connected me with the PTAC Program Manager in the BDC….and, as they say, the rest is history. 

In 2019, I was able to deliver a presentation to the Plymouth Rotary Club, tell that story and thank them once again for the scholarship and for setting me on my career path at Schoolcraft College.

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All model types are needed and welcome

Personal and Professional Learning (PPL), which is the new name for Schoolcraft College’s continuing education department, is in need of art models for PPL portrait classes for the Fall 2021 semester.

Italian teacher holding a tablet
Registration is now open for all Fall 2021 PPL classes

Sessions are three hours long and models must commit to two sessions. Models are fully clothed; artwork focuses on the head and shoulders.

All model types are needed and welcome. Pay is $12 per hour.

Contact art instructor Grace Karczewski at [email protected] for more information.

Registration is now open for all Fall 2021 PPL classes, which are for both virtual students as well as those who prefer to attend class on campus. For example, some yoga classes will be livestreamed because many students prefer to exercise in the privacy of their own homes. Other classes, such as Italian, will remain virtual because it has become so popular during the pandemic that not all of the students will now fit in a typical classroom. 

Helping community members pursue new passions or upgrade professional skill sets through non-credit classes has long been an important component of Schoolcraft College. An even greater commitment to that mission is part of the reason for the name change from Continuing Education and Professional Development (CEPD).

Model posing, being drawn
Sessions are three hours long and models must commit to two sessions. Models are fully clothed; artwork focuses on the head and shoulders.

“As we progress into the 21st century, continuing education will be critical to meeting the educational, social, health, cultural, and recreational needs of all ages and populations in our community,” said Dr. Jodie Beckley, Director, Personal and Professional Learning. 

“We believe that the possibilities for the future are boundless, and Personal and Professional Learning communicates our drive to break the bonds of time and space in making education accessible to a broad audience of learners. It also reflects our renewed commitment to innovative and responsive programs, courses and events.”

You can contact PPL at 734-462-4448 or [email protected]

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Program offers tuition-free path to Associate Degree

Students eligible for the Futures for Frontliners program are urged to register for their Fall 2021 semester classes. 

Futures for Frontliners (F4F) is a state scholarship for Michiganders without college degrees who worked in essential industries from April through June 2020. The state-funded scholarship provides these frontline workers with tuition-free access to Michigan community colleges.

Frontline workers standing together

Futures for Frontliners supports those who worked in essential industries from April-June 2020.

What does F4F cover?

Resident students – tuition and mandatory fees remaining not covered by other tuition restricted aid after your Pell Grant (if eligible) has disbursed.

Non-Resident students – the resident rate of tuition and mandatory fees not covered by other tuition restricted aid after your Pell Grant (if eligible) has disbursed.

F4F can be used up to four years or until first Associate Degree is achieved.

What mandatory fees are covered by F4F? 

The following fees at Schoolcraft College not covered by other tuition-restricted aid:

  • Infrastructure Fee
  • Registration Fee
  • Instructional Equipment Fee
  • Service Fee
  • Excess Contact Hour Fee

For additional support, call 517-636-7000 or email [email protected]

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Students learn how the human body moves, effects of disease, age and exercise

In a corner of the new St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center, away from the near-constant thumping of volleyballs being hit, squeaking of athletic shoes and enthusiastic shouts of competitors, sits a seemingly quiet classroom.

Headshot of a man smiling
Mark Papineau is the Movement Science program coordinator

Once you enter, however, the space bursts to life with an array of high-tech machines dedicated to Schoolcraft College’s Movement Science program. As the name suggests, Movement Science students study how the human body moves as well as how it is affected by disease, age and exercise. 

The program offers a solid foundation for graduate school and/or careers in medicine, pharmacy, public health, fitness training, exercise physiologist, and physical and occupational therapy. The College offers both a one-year certificate (8 courses, 24 credits) and an Associate Degree (18 courses, 60-63 credits).

“We have three new and important pieces of high-tech equipment that will enhance the Movement Science program this fall and give students an advantage whether they go on to work in the field or transfer to a four-year institution,” said Mark Papineau, program coordinator for Movement Science.

“We have three new and important pieces of high-tech equipment that will enhance the Movement Science program this fall and give students an advantage whether they go on to work in the field or transfer to a four-year institution.”

Mark Papineau, program coordinator for Movement Science.

“The technology provides objective measures to help evaluate body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and the strength, endurance, power and range of motion of major joints and muscles. Using the results can help determine areas or deficiencies that need improvement. The experienced movement science professionals who can utilize this high-tech equipment and the data produced are highly sought-after.”

Here’s a closer look at the new high-tech testing tools.

Two people using medical machinery
The Biodex System Isokinetic Dynamometer is a high-tech device used for muscle testing and rehabilitation by movement science professionals.

The Biodex System Isokinetic Dynamometer is a high-tech device used for muscle testing and rehabilitation by movement science professionals.

  • This isokinetic dynamometer allows you to evaluate strength, endurance, power and range of motion of major joints and muscles, and provides detailed objective data results of their performance. The results can be used to determine the areas or deficiencies that need improvement. 
  • The dynamometer provides objective measures and targeted exercise to help manage common sports injuries and determine safe return to play for athletes.
  • Provides consistent, accurate data.
  • Gives muscle performance measurements.
  • Can be used for rehabilitation.
  • Can be used for conditioning.
  • Can help older adults strengthen the muscles associated with ambulation.
Two people using medical machinery
The Parvo Metabolic Cart Heart Monitor with treadmill or bike is a compact integrated metabolic measurement system for cardiopulmonary stress testing, indirect calorimetry, and maximal oxygen consumption measurement.

The Parvo Metabolic Cart Heart Monitor with treadmill or bike. This is a compact integrated metabolic measurement system for cardiopulmonary stress testing, indirect calorimetry, and maximal oxygen consumption measurement.

  • Used by NASA and U.S. Olympic Training Centers, biophysicists developed this cutting-edge technology that delivers accurate metabolic measurements under the most demanding exercise conditions. 
  • Test subjects can use either the bike or the treadmill, while the Oxygen Analyzer and the Carbon Dioxide Analyzer measure the respiratory gases, oxygen and carbon dioxide. 
  • It also analyzes data on:
    • Calories per minute of expenditure. 
    • Where the calories are coming from – carbohydrates or fat sources in the body.
  • It is used for exercise physiology, athletic testing with high accuracy at high workloads, and it is used for high-altitude training.
A person operating a body pod
The Bod Pod is a body composition tracking system.

The Bod Pod is a body composition tracking system. The system will be used for body composition testing that students will be taught to perform and provide information for them to use in developing exercise prescriptions.

The Cosmed USA, Inc. Bod Pod is the most current state-of-the art system for determining body composition. The Bod Pod system uses whole-body densitometry via air displacement plethysmography (ADP) to determine body composition (percent body fat and fat-free mass) in children and adults, and can accommodate a wide range of populations. 

A full test requires only about five minutes, and provides accurate, safe, comfortable results. 

  • The testing is fast, accurate and completely non-invasive.
  • It can be used for assessing special populations such as young children from 2-6 years, the elderly, or disabled.

“The use of the high tech equipment for data analysis and formulating targeted lifestyle changes and conditioning is a skill we can give our students and open career pathways they may not have considered before,” Papineau said. “Students who go on to become movement science professionals utilize education, lifestyle intervention, and specific exercise programs to train, condition, and rehabilitate the fitness, recreation, and athletic community.”

Huge benefit to students

Papineau is eager to share the benefits of the equipment as they can immediately apply what they are learning during the lecture portion of the classwork.

“There are more opportunities to teach students in the expanded lab space and to serve other campus shareholders on this testing equipment,” he said. “Having the lab and the classroom in the same facility means that students can learn through lecture and practical demonstration about fitness assessment protocols. “

  • Students in class will learn to critically analyze why a particular fitness test is utilized, and the standard procedures for conducting the test. 
  • Going into the lab they can learn how to properly administer tests and how to read the analysis from the test results.

And with that knowledge, they can better understand specific fitness testing protocols. Specifically, the students will be able to:  

  • Compare test results with normative data to create a fitness profile.
  • Determine the advantages and disadvantages of selecting a specific fitness test over other tests that evaluate the same parameters.

The possibilities seem almost limitless.

“We have expanded the potential for our students and the athletes who train here, aiding in-patient recovery, rehabilitation, and providing better outcomes and research,” Papineau said. “Our students and community shareholders will be able to help weekend athletes and professionals by utilizing education, lifestyle changes and specific forms of exercise along with the latest data obtained on our equipment. They will teach others how to reduce injury and re-injury with targeted software, research, and clinical guidelines.”

David S. Kesler, D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic) and Associate Dean of Health Professions, shares Papineau’s enthusiasm and looks forward to serving Schoolcraft College students and the community.

“The Movement Science Program has brought together a panoply of rare and specialized equipment that will be of great benefit to students and athletes in and around northwestern Wayne County,” he said.

Learn more about Schoolcraft College’s Movement Science program.

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He’s learning from leaders in the construction industry

Will Peper, who is pursuing a path toward civil engineering, has the opportunity to better understand his prospective career thanks to a scholarship that has him working for a valued partner of Schoolcraft College on an important on-campus construction project.

Peper, of Plymouth, is the recipient of the AUCH Construction Scholarship, and he’s been busy this summer working on the refurbishing and upgrading of the Applied Science building, which is transforming into the Health Sciences Center (HSC).

“My goal was and is to have hands-on experience for what engineers do on a daily basis, and AUCH has graciously provided a means for that to happen,” Peper said. 

Peper comes from a large family, including six older siblings who were Schoolcraft College students, so he was familiar with the school. He also was familiar with AUCH Construction.

“My goal was and is to have hands-on experience for what engineers do on a daily basis, and AUCH has graciously provided a means for that to happen.”


Will Peper, Schoolcraft College student and recipient of the AUCH Construction Scholarship

“I am used to seeing the AUCH sign next to the St. Joe’s Sports Dome while driving past on I-275, but I was not aware that AUCH was responsible for renovations of existing buildings or the creations of new ones, such as the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center.”

Indeed, AUCH has been an important partner for the College. In addition to the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center and the Sports Dome, AUCH’s other projects for Schoolcraft include:

  • The Manufacturing & Engineering Center in Livonia, home to the College’s occupational programs
  • The Public Safety Training Complex in Livonia, home to the College’s police and fire academies
  • Numerous renovations of rooms and space in buildings across the main campus
A medical building

The new St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center is one of many projects that AUCH Construction has led on the campus of Schoolcraft College.

The transformation of Applied Science, which formerly housed the occupational programs, to the Health Sciences Center, is the next key project for the College. The HSC will be the future home of all programs related to healthcare, with partial occupancy expected for the Fall 2021 semester. The upgrades will add 36,600 sq. ft. of space to the current Applied Science building.

“Most of my experience has been gained through observing and participating in the process of renovating the Applied Science building,” Peper said. “Many of my day-to-day tasks range anywhere from cleaning up the building and surrounding areas to reflect an efficient, orderly and well-managed project site; preparing areas to be worked in by other tradesmen; and assisting foremen of various subcontractors in completing one-off tasks. 

“With the assistance of my superintendent, I have attempted to dabble in various projects that would normally be done by various tradespeople (carpentry, demolition, masonry).”

The AUCH team has been glad to have Peper this summer.

Four people standing in front of a building

Will Peper (second from right) is shown with (from left) Jeffrey D. Hamilton, Shawn Verlinden and Vincent DeLeonardis

“We were delighted that Will was the recipient of the AUCH Construction Scholarship and can now take it a step further with some real life work experience in an effort to guide him with his goals for a potential future career in our industry,” said Jeffrey D. Hamilton, President, AUCH Construction.

Peper has been grateful for the experience.

“I had never stepped foot on a construction site before May of this year,” he said. “My exposure to hands-on projects was rather limited growing up, and my knowledge leading up to my internship was lackluster as a result. However, with the grace, patience, and immeasurable experience of my supervisors, my ability to expand my understanding of the construction world has been unprecedented.”

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The hope is that in-person performances return this fall

Today for “Faculty Spotlight” we’re sitting down with Dr. Frederick Moss, the new Department Representative for Music and Theatre.

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Dr. Moss, and congratulations on your new role! To start out, could you please tell us about your position at Schoolcraft College, how long you have been with us and what classes you teach?

Dr. Frederick Moss is a talented performer of the piano and the clarinet.

Frederick Moss: I began teaching at Schoolcraft in the fall of 2001. My charge was to teach one section of Music 107, which is music for elementary school teachers. It was a wonderful diversion from writing my dissertation. When the dissertation and doctorate were completed, my work at Schoolcraft expanded to include teaching music appreciation, popular music in America, and applied instrumental music studio class.

For now, I will continue to teach the same classes I have been teaching. The primary new responsibilities for me will include overseeing the music and theater departments, representing those departments at meetings and functions across campus, working with other faculty to recruit students for music and theater, and assist with sharing the good word regarding music and theater with the larger community. 

SC: What prompted your interest in music?

Frederick Moss: I do not remember not being interested in music. My earliest musical memory is listening to my sister practice the violin when I was probably no more than 3 years old. On some level, I remember thinking, “I’m going to do that someday.” Legendary singer Tony Bennett said, “I can’t not sing.” His words very much describe my relationship with music.      

SC: We understand you play both the clarinet and the piano. How often do you perform and what do you like about each of those instruments?

Frederick Moss: Clarinet is my main public performance avenue. As a youngster, I rather stumbled upon it as my best friend in fifth grade band was playing it also. I grew to absolutely love the sound of the instrument. As I began learning the clarinet literature, I fell in love with it also. 

Piano has become my own personal “music therapy.” Sitting down and playing the piano has become like sitting in a wonderfully comfortable easy chair for me, though I have played in restaurants and for numerous weddings and private parties. I also do play the piano in class to accompany my students or provide examples of various ideas in music.  

Regarding clarinet performance, in the last few years, I have appeared regularly on the faculty recital at Schoolcraft. Thanks to the pandemic, the clarinet has taken a bit of a back seat as I have had a LOT to learn about teaching online. A couple of my music faculty colleagues and I are very interested in developing a chamber music ensemble, however, and I am really looking forward to that type of collaboration.

SC: It’s no secret that funding for the arts in elementary schools, middles schools and high schools have been drastically reduced in recent years. You have taught several courses related to instructors who want to teach music. In your opinion, why is it important for children to be exposed to the arts?

“My main goal is to broaden the understanding of the community well beyond our campus perimeter regarding the good things that are going on in music and theater at Schoolcraft.”


Dr. Frederick Moss, Department Representative for Music and Theatre

Frederick Moss: Humans are musical beings. We are also mathematical beings and linguistic beings and all manner of other kinds of beings. In education, we have to make a decision regarding the extent to which we want to shape the whole person or only those aspects. 

In schooling, we have taken for granted subjects like math, science, and language arts. I vote for teaching the whole person in school with a highly qualified music teacher in the same way, generally, we intend to have high-qualified teachers for math, science, and language arts.

I am a big fan of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) programs, but I am an even bigger fan of STEAM initiatives (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) where, at least in theory, the arts stand right alongside those other important academic areas.      

SC: The Music and Theatre departments at Schoolcraft College have been well-respected for many years, with the performances, recitals and productions enjoyed by community members. What are your goals for the departments?

Frederick Moss: My main goal is to broaden the understanding of the community well beyond our campus perimeter regarding the good things that are going on in music and theater at Schoolcraft. I often am surprised by some version of the following comment: “I didn’t know Schoolcraft had a music department.” 

My sense is that a significant number of people are similarly unaware of what we have to offer regarding theater. My colleagues work tirelessly to develop courses and performances, so I really want to get the word out that Schoolcraft is the place to come to either study or enjoy a performance in those areas.   

SC: What do you like best about teaching at Schoolcraft College?

Frederick Moss: I love the “community” in “community college.” When I started teaching at Schoolcraft, I was struck by the degree to which a really kind and caring community existed on campus. As I have taken on more classes and participated in committees, I have enjoyed becoming more and more a part of the campus community. I look forward to deepening that relationship as a full-time faculty member.

Man sits at piano

Dr. Frederick Moss is a talented performer of the piano and the clarinet.

SC: Will we have live performances on campus this year? Can you provide any updates?

Frederick Moss: Of course, everything is subject to what happens regarding the pandemic, but we are working toward live music performances on campus as early as December and live theater performances in winter. In the meantime, look for some more online events during the fall.

SC: You also serve as a member of our DEI Task Force. Please tell us why you wanted to be part of that.

Frederick Moss: I have long felt that diversity is one of the great spices of life. My greatest personal growth has occurred when I have opened myself to learning as much as I can about individuals who have life experiences different from my own. Sometimes that learning has been difficult or even painful as I have had to examine assumptions I was holding unknowingly about people, but it has always been worth it. 

In these complicated times, I felt that a diversity, equity, and inclusion task force could do a lot to foster more opportunity for us all to learn more about each other as our own campus community becomes more and more diverse. In addition, as a visually impaired person, I welcomed the opportunity to represent disability at the DEI table. 

SC: Thank you, Dr. Moss. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Frederick Moss: Go Ocelots!  

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As a team, Schoolcraft compiled a 3.59 GPA

Before – and after – the Schoolcraft College women’s bowling team hits the lanes, they hit the books. Hard. 

That dedication to academics paid off in a big way as Schoolcraft was named the 2020-21 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Academic Team of the Year in Women’s Bowling for achieving the highest grade point average in their sport.

This is the first time the women’s team has achieved this honor. It’s also the first time any Schoolcraft College team has achieved it since 2015-16 (men’s bowling).

 “It’s obviously a very special and prestigious honor when you look at all of the other schools across the country that were eligible for this.”

Patrick Yelsik, Schoolcraft College women’s bowling coach

“It’s obviously a very special and prestigious honor when you look at all of the other schools across the country that were eligible for this,” coach Patrick Yelsik said. “Knowing the kind of young women who we have in our program, it doesn’t come as a total shock. 

“Being around them every day, you learn very quickly that it is an exceptional group that has a laser focus and can be borderline perfectionists, and I say that in the highest regard. I’m extremely proud of them.”

As a team, Schoolcraft compiled a 3.59 GPA. Sophomore Allison Little (Livonia Churchill) earned NJCAA Second-Team Academic All-American honors with a 3.98 GPA in 2020-21, as did freshman LeiLani Williams (Carlson) with a 3.92 GPA. Sophomore Amanda Fsadni (Anchor Bay) was named to the NJCAA All-Academic Third Team with a 3.70 GPA.

Student-athletes in all sports face tremendous pressure balancing making time to play the sport they love with their academic load as well as other responsibilities.

“We practice two hours a day, four days a week, and then our tournaments are on Fridays, so it’s not uncommon for those to be 12-to-14 hour days when you factor in travel,” Yelsik said. “Then combine that with the fact that most everyone on our team has some sort of job on top of taking a full-time class load, there is definitely a time management component that they have to be able to successfully navigate, as is the case with any student-athlete.”

A key resource Schoolcraft College has in place to help student-athletes succeed is the Student Athlete Support System, or SASS. This program, one of the most comprehensive among community colleges, serves as both a checkpoint and a way to get students back on track.

The Schoolcraft College women’s bowling team achieved the highest grade point average in their sport in the National Junior College Athletic Association for the 2020-21 season

Amy Proctor is the SASS Coordinator. Essentially, she’s the liaison among instructors, coaches, the Director of Athletics and the students. Faculty report to her six times a semester (about every two weeks) on the following:

  • Attendance
  • Passing
  • Borderline
  • Failing

“Most of our student-athletes at Schoolcraft College have the ‘student’ part down really well,” Proctor said. “We want everyone to stay on track, so we’re here to assist those who need a little help now and then.”

Yelsik is grateful for her help.

“A big thank you to Amy Proctor, our Student-Athlete Support Services Coordinator, for her tireless work on the academic side of the fence with the students as well as the rest of our Athletic Department Staff and my assistant coach Ashley Schou, who is able to provide much more guidance with homework on those long bus trips than I can,” he said.

Director of Athletics Cali Crawford is understandably proud of the achievement.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment, and full credit to our coaches for setting the right example and proper focus on priorities, to our women’s bowling team student-athletes for putting in the time on their studies and to our support staff for all of their help,” Crawford said. “I have no doubt that these young women are going to continue to be successful with whatever the next step in their journey may be and beyond.”

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Here’s a little quiz that answers your questions

The Fall 2021 semester is just around the corner (classes start Monday, Aug. 30), so how about a little summer quiz to get you in the mood for classes?

Don’t worry – this one is open book! We’ve got all the answers you need below. And if you see something that wasn’t covered, please call Student Relations at 734-462-4486 or email [email protected].

Q: Will there be in-person classes for the Fall 2021 semester?

A: Yes. Depending on the course, Remote, Hybrid, and Online options will be offered as well.

Q: Do I have to be vaccinated to attend Schoolcraft College?

A: No. If you do want to get vaccinated, you can do so in the VisTaTech Center right here on campus. Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. No appointment is needed.*

Students writing at desks
In-person classes will be offered for the Fall 2021 semester.

Q: Will I have to wear a face covering?

A: If you are fully vaccinated, which is defined as two weeks after your last dose, you do NOT have to wear a face covering (nose and mouth) while in the hallways or open areas in buildings.

HOWEVER, while in class and in College-designated areas such as private offices and confined spaces, all students, faculty and staff need to wear a face covering until further notice.

If you are NOT vaccinated, you need to wear a face covering at all times.

Q: Do I need to complete the health screening?

A: No. The health screening is no longer required.

Q: What are the on-campus dining options?

A: In the VisTaTech Center, you can visit Henry’s, American Harvest and Main Street Café. The Elite Market is at the new St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center. Henry’s and the Elite Market, each of which feature grab-and-go meals, snacks and beverages, always will have a self-checkout option where credit cards, debit cards and Apple Pay are accepted. The JC Café in the Jeffress Center is expected to open later this fall.

Q: Can I join the Fitness Center?

A: Yes. The Fitness Center is FREE to all credit students. Stop by the Fitness Center for more information. Membership in the Fitness Center also allows access to the walking track in the St. Joe’s Mercy Elite Sports Center. 

Q: What’s up with the website?

A: You’ve noticed! Yes, we did a little facelift with schoolcraft.edu. 

Here’s a quick cheat sheet to find those links of you haven’t bookmarked them from before. 

In the top navigation bar:

  • Utilize the A-Z Index for a site map list of links
  • Utilize the “Info For” dropdown menu for filtered lists of links
  • Utilize the “Semester Guide” for information such as course schedules and important dates.

If you receive a “404 Page Not Found” error:

  • Try using the provided search bar to search “legacy content”

Other tips:

*Days and hours subject to change. Go to https://www.waynecounty.com/covid19/vaccination.aspx for the latest information.

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Positions are available in a variety of locations

Looking for an on-campus job this fall? Schoolcraft College’s Career Services department has several openings exclusively for Schoolcraft College students in a wide variety of locations, including:

  • Duplication Design Center
  • Learning Center
  • Campus offices
  • Computer labs
  • Campus cafés 
  • Fitness Center
  • Bookstore
  • Library

“Having a job on campus can be a very convenient option for students balancing their academics and work.”

JoAnne Stadnicar, Director, Career Services

“We have several opportunities for students to ‘earn while they learn’ here at Schoolcraft,” said JoAnne Stadnicar, Director, Career Services. “Having a job on campus can be a very convenient option for students balancing their academics and work. Student employment on campus also provides our students with a built-in support network to help them succeed personally and professionally.”

Student hands from to faculty member
Students can “earn while they learn” with an on-campus job at Schoolcraft College.

More information will be shared at an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 11, in the McDowell Student Center.

You also can call 734-462-4421 or email [email protected].

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Explore all possibilities to help ease the burden

Learning, of course, is the goal of any college experience. Part of that education means familiarizing yourself with some unfamiliar terms. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

As part of an occasional series, we’ll explain phrases, lingo or topics to add to your college vocabulary. We call it “Say What?” If there’s a topic you’d like to see covered, please send suggestions to [email protected]. 

Today we’ll learn about ways you can pay for school through financial aid.

Think of financial aid as the umbrella term for all the ways to pay for higher education, and it comes in many forms. For just about any sort of financial aid, the starting point is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, better known as FAFSA, which you complete online. 

Most students pay for college through a combination of financial aid. Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid team can help answer questions.

A computer screen with the Schoolcraft website open
The homepage of Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid Department is a good starting point for any questions you might have.

For some, filling out the FAFSA is pretty straightforward. For others, it’s a long and involved process. You can save your work, so if you have to stop, that’s OK. 

Basic information to have handy includes:

  • Your social security number
  • Your driver’s license number
  • Federal tax return (Student/Parent when applicable)
  • Anything else that shows reported income
  • The school you’re attending or interested in attending

It’s best to file the FAFSA as early as possible. Again, as the name states, it is free to fill out – no fees whatsoever. 

Getting back to student financial aid, there are five main types:

  1. Federal Grants: Requires a FAFSA application. Grants are need based and given without repayment requirements.
  2. Federal Work Study: Requires a FAFSA application. This program allows students to earn money to pay for their college education. These positions are not guaranteed.
  3. State Programs: State-sponsored programs such as Tuition Incentive Program, Michigan Competitive Scholarship (MCS), Michigan Education Trust (MET) and Michigan Education Savings Plan (MESP).
  4. Scholarships: Are given without repayment requirements but may have many factors involved in meeting requirements, often need and academic levels. There is a separate application required. A number of scholarships may require that a student has completed a FAFSA.
  5. Loans: Requires a FAFSA application. Funds are available to both students and their parents. All loans must be repaid with interest. Repayment begins when you are no longer attending college at a part-time credit level or graduation.

It’s best to explore your options and possibilities with each source and use each to best advantage. Most students pay for college through a combination of financial aid. Schoolcraft College’s Financial Aid team can help answer questions.

Looking into scholarships

Schoolcraft College currently has over 300 scholarships for students. Non-traditional students and those from underserved populations are especially encouraged to explore what’s offered. 

Keep in mind that these are just the start – many entities offer scholarships as well. As with working to find the right job or internship, networking skills can help you find scholarships, too. Some students may qualify for the Detroit Promise scholarship opportunity. There are also other scholarship avenues students can pursue like Scholarship America and FastWeb! that lists multiple scholarship opportunities any student can receive. 

Schoolcraft College currently has over 300 scholarships for students. Non-traditional students and those from underserved populations are especially encouraged to explore what’s offered.

CARES Act Funding

Schoolcraft College recently received its disbursement from the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act to assist those who incurred financial hardship from the COVID-19 pandemic. The College is now accepting applications for CARES 3 Grant funding to support enrolled and previously enrolled (since March 2020) students who have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. 

To apply for CARES 3 visit Scholarships to see a variety of options.

You will need to complete the General Scholarship Application first and then you can select “Apply To” on the CARES 3 application to answer the additional questions. 

Grant overview:

  • Awards will range from $800 – $1,500 per semester
  • The grant funds will be awarded based on responses in the application
  • Students only need to submit one (1) CARES III application for multiple semesters 
  • Award continuation will depend on utilization and availability of funds
  • Grant will be awarded after confirmation of attendance for the semester

This grant is intended to help students with expenses that may impact their ability to complete their course(s). Applicants will be required to certify that they have coronavirus related financial need for education costs or emergency costs.

Expense examples:

  • Past due balances
  • Tuition and fees
  • Books and supplies
  • Housing costs
  • Transportation
  • Food
  • Medical and mental health care

Learning about loans

In a general sense, loans are available from two sources: The federal government or lenders. The federal government distributes federal loans at a fixed interest rate. These rates are generally lower to those from a private lender.

A lender such as a bank or other institution offers two types of loans – secured or unsecured. A secured loan is backed by collateral, such as a house or other property or assets. Secured loans basically offer some security for the lender and generally have lower interest rates. Unsecured loans do not have this type of backing and generally have higher interest rates.

Depending on your financial situation, it may be advantageous to have a co-signer for your private loan. In fact, the lending institution may require it.

To learn more

For more information about financial aid at Schoolcraft College, please visit the financial aid webpage at schoolcraft.edu/aid. You can also reach the department via email and phone at [email protected] or 734-462-4433.

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Schoolcraft College was one of just 61 institutions – and one of just two from Michigan – selected by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) to participate in its 2021 Institute on High-Impact Practices and Student Success. (The University of Michigan was the other participant from the state.)

The Institute is designed to advance campus- and system-level efforts to achieve quality, equity and student engagement goals through the design, implementation and assessment of active teaching and learning practices widely known as “high-impact practices,” or HIPs.

The Institute was held virtually June 15-18. The team from Schoolcraft College was:

AACU logo
  • Adam Authier, Director of Academic Innovation
  • Deborah Burke, Professor, Psychology
  • Sharon Christian, Director, Learning Support Services
  • Helen Ditouras, Professor, English
  • Dr. Elaine Lloyd, Professor, Nursing

“The AAC&U Institute on High-Impact Practices and Student Success provides an unparalleled opportunity for colleges and universities from across the country to collaborate on ways to become more intentional in serving all students and to improve both completion rates and the quality of student learning,” said AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella.

Each team worked with leading experts and practitioners to identify opportunities for deepening connections between students’ assets and their educational experiences. Drawing on research that demonstrates a positive relationship between student participation in HIPs and improved student outcomes, the teams defined and started to develop curricular and cocurricular practices that support student engagement, advance curricular coherence, and generate equitable outcomes.

They also defined and strengthened processes for directly assessing student achievement of the learning outcomes that result from participation in HIPs. These assessment processes will help institutions set and monitor progress toward equity goals to improve educational outcomes for all students.

“The Institute represents AAC&U’s continued partnership with leading experts on high-impact practices and student success to examine the latest research and to address the most pressing issues related to equity, quality, and assessment to design sustainable efforts that are responsive to students’ needs and values the diversity of students’ identities,” said Tia McNair, Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Student Success and Executive Director for the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT) Campus Centers.

The Institute focused on implementing educational change and bringing effective practices to scale in a time of unprecedented changes, limited resources, and variations in modes of delivery. The curriculum supported campus teams as they develop faculty-engaged, evidence-based, sustainable models and strategies to advance quality, equity, and engagement in service to academic excellence and social justice.

Topics addressed included integrating HIPs across modalities, aligning courses and programs with guided pathways, promoting connections between educational experiences and long-term career success, and encouraging an academically open environment while promoting the safe and civil exchange of ideas.

Professor Burke, Professor Ditouras and Dr. Lloyd graciously provided the following insights at the end of the Institute:

Q: What are your overall impressions of the program?

The AAC&U conference was empowering and enlightening as we learned from and collaborated with experts in the field and our colleagues at the college. If we want to future-proof the College, we all need to pay attention to expanding access to all facets of the higher education experience.

High Impact Practices (HIPs) include educational activities that engage students in active learning that elevate their performance on desired outcomes. 

Moreover, the conference focused on the essential role of HIPs in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, all of which are of high value to everyone working in education. HIPs are the best practice in ensuring the work of expanding access and accountability with concrete action plans.

Q: What was the format of the program?

As participants we engaged in keynote presentations, daily breakout sessions, and team consultations that centered on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging filtered through the framework of High Impact Practices.

Q: Are there any ideas in particular you want to bring to Schoolcraft College and why?

It is essential that the college re-configure the process of enrollment and advising, retention, co-curricular opportunities, governance, and teaching methodology to expand access through the framework of High Impact Practices.

Q: “Guided Pathways” seemed to be one of the key topics for this program, and it’s a topic that’s growing in importance here at Schoolcraft. In your opinion, were there any ideas from the program that can help us?

Guided Pathways, a portal to facilitate student completion with structures of support for first generation students, is a potential High Impact Practice that the College should continue to develop. HIPs should be embedded in all programing and practices at the college.  Below is a list of AAC&U’s High Impact Educational Practices. High-Impact Educational Practices | Association of American Colleges & Universities (aacu.org)

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Under the leadership of Adam Authier, Director of Academic Innovation, Schoolcraft College’s AAC&U team is comprised of a cross-section of our campus community. We are proud of the work our Schoolcraft team was able to accomplish, but we are not enough. It will take the involvement of the entire campus community to future-proof the College utilizing the framework of High Impact Practices in everything we do.

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Learning Support Services offers a wide variety of services to students at Schoolcraft College to help them achieve their academic goals. They offer tutoring, writing support, peer assisted learning, academic success coaching and more in the department, meeting students where they’re at in their academics. This department is unique in one major way – student employees make up more than half of their team.

“Want to learn real-world leadership skills all while sharpening your academics? Join our team,” said Sharon Christian, Director of Learning Support Services. “Learn to work in a team setting and gain professional development opportunities while supporting your peers at Schoolcraft College! Many of our students make lasting connections.”

Learning Support Services is currently looking to hire tutors, peer consultants for Writing Support Studio, and student assistants to work on-campus for the Fall 2021 semester.

Tutors support in various mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics courses by appointment and group tutoring sessions. Peer Consultants provide writing support in the Learning Center’s Writing Support Studio.

“Our tutors, peer consultants and service desk team members are the engines behind our work in the Learning Center,” said Elizabeth Kenney, Learning Center Coordinator. “As a Learning Center team, we enjoy and take pride in our work to support students across a wide variety of academic areas. As a department, we offer ongoing training, leadership and other professional development opportunities for our student employees.”

Want to join the LSS team? Please attend one of the information sessions. Both in-person and remote sessions are available. Here’s the schedule:

DateTimeMode
Wednesday, July 1411:00 a.m.–noonIn person
Thursday, July 152:00-3:00 p.m.Remote (Link to attend)
Tuesday, July 201:00-2:00 p.m.In person
Thursday, July 2210:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.Remote (Link to attend)
For more information, visit www.schoolcraft.edu/LSS, or email [email protected]