Students collect hundreds of children’s books to help Detroit nonprofit

June 28, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

Students in a recent Children’s Literature class took it upon themselves to help Hey Y’all Detroit by donating children’s book to help their mission across the city.

Charmane Neal was overwhelmed with emotion when she heard what Schoolcraft College students did for her organization.

Neal, the founder of Detroit nonprofit Hey Y’all Detroit, recently came to campus to pick up a portion of nearly 1,000 donated children’s books collected by students in a spring Children’s Literature class.

“I’m just really grateful and words can’t explain how happy I am right now,” said Neal, who previously attended Schoolcraft College before attending Wayne State University. “I don’t think you understand the impact that this is going to have.”

The class, taught by English Faculty Member April Harden, included a Service Learning component, which for this class included collecting books over a three-week period for the Detroit organization. Hey Y’all Detroit is an initiative dedicated to paying it forward to inner city communities that has several methods of giving back, including through books, food and community gardens.

The organization had its truck used for driving around the city stolen last fall. That included many books Neal and others would lend and give to children, leaving them without just as school started.

Seeing that need, students in the class then began collecting books from all over: work, libraries, family members and more. Slowly but surely, the students amassed books and quickly figured out they had plenty of donations to pass along to Hey Y’all Detroit.

group of students holding books — Students in a spring session of Children’s Literature take a photo with Charmane Neal, founder of Hey Y’all Detroit, at Schoolcraft College. The students recently collected hundreds of children’s books as a part of their course and donated them to Hey Y’all Detroit, which had its vehicle containing its books stolen last fall.

It didn’t take long for the small class to figure out they were onto something special.

“In the first or second week, we were in the group chat and people were like, ‘I have books,’” said Angie Seranian, a student in the class. “And someone else comes up and says, ‘I have books.’ Everybody already has books right now.”

Soon, box after box filled with books accumulated in a room in the Liberal Arts building, so many that Neal could not fit them all on her car in one trip. It’s a gesture, Neal said, that is unmatched for her three-year-old organization.

“Hey Y’all wouldn’t be able to continue if it wasn’t for the generosity of people like you,” Neal said. “It’s been really hard recovering from that theft. We’re still trying to pick up the pieces.

“For it to be over 1,000 books, I don’t even know. I’m just really excited and really grateful.”

Seranian said while the students began collecting books, she’s noticed the organizations they reached out to want to continue donating to Hey Y’all Detroit.

“It wasn’t just an ‘us’ thing,” she said. “We kind of spread the word for other people to continue it now, too.”

June 26, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

The Pride Team aims to help students feel comfortable in their identities across campus and has begun holding events to do just that.

Being pulled over was a realization moment for Ayven Hunt several years ago.

Hunt, a transgender man who recently wrapped up attending Schoolcraft College, was driving with his learner’s permit with his mother in the car when he was pulled over by a police officer. During the stop, his mother began looking frantically through the glove box for the vehicle’s registration, but not fast enough for Hunt, who was feeling frustrated in the moment. He then quickly grabbed the paper from her hand to offer it to the officer, who then asked his mother to step outside the car.

Unknown to him what that was all about, Hunt — who also works with the Plymouth/Canton Chapter of PFLAG, an LGBTQ+ advocate group — a asked his mother when she returned. She told him the officer asked her if she was safe with Hunt, a statement that made Hunt realize how different it would be after transitioning. Had he been viewed as his mother’s daughter and not her son, Hunt said, the interaction would have looked a lot different.

Faculty member April Harden speaks at the recent Sip and Chat event put on by the Pride Team at Schoolcraft College.

“My mom told me that domestic abuse against women is such a large problem that me swiping that registration out of her hand was enough for that officer to feel like he should confirm that my mom was safe,” said Hunt, who plans to begin classes at the University of Michigan this fall. “That was the moment that I realized how much different society viewed me.”

Hunt’s story was just one of the many items discussed during a recent Sip and Chat event held June 22 in the Bradner Library. The event was significant, as it marked the first on-campus event put on by the College’s Pride Team.

The organization’s goals include helping to make students feel comfortable in their identities, including through support of not just other students but employees at Schoolcraft College as well, said Catreese Qualls, IDEA Research Assistant in the Office of Equity and Engagement.

“We hope for this to grow into something much larger,” she said. “I am truly hoping that we will have the support of each department, members that want to come on and support. Because it’s important that when we say we want students to feel welcome, that we want faculty, administration, staff, their families to feel important on campus, we need to be doing. Because change is an action word.”

The Pride Team began their work attending the first-ever Pride Celebration and Resource Fair held at the Livonia Civic Center, providing materials and resources to attendees.

The team will host another event to mark Pride Month called “Looking Back and Moving Forward,” an online panel discussion that will take place from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. June 28. There, local LGBTQIA+ leaders will discuss what it means to look back and forward both historically and personally.

Feature photo: Ayven Hunt, a former Schoolcraft College student who plans to begin classes at the University of Michigan in the fall, speaks about his experience as a transgender man at a recent event held in the Bradner Library.

June 16, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

A signing ceremony took place June 15 to mark the 10-year anniversary of the relationship between the two institutions, which also included an expansion of the program aimed at assisting students transfer seamlessly.

A longtime partnership between Schoolcraft College and Wayne State University has gotten even better after a recent agreement between the two institutions of higher education.

A signing ceremony to mark the 10-year anniversary of the agreement between the two schools was held June 15 in the Jeffress Center. The event was not only a way to mark a decade of working together to help student success, but also to expand the Transfer Pathways Agreement to better maximize credit transfers.

The agreement allows students to transfer to Wayne State University into an academic program in one of six colleges and schools at the Detroit-based university after earning their associate degree. Having that agreement in place for students is a key component of the agreement between the two schools.

“We’re trying to create partnerships that make our students much more viable in the community, but they have to have flexibility,” said Schoolcraft College President Dr. Glenn Cerny. “These pathways are creating that.”

The partnership between the two schools has led to a strong bond, including bringing Wayne State University to Schoolcraft College’s campus: the university operates on the third floor of the Jeffress Center, including classrooms, study areas and more.

Having such a relationship with Schoolcraft College is also key to Wayne State University’s success, said Dr. Mark Kornbluh, Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs for the university.

“Every fall, Wayne State welcomes the most community college transfers of any university in the state to a four-year college,” he said. “Students who come to us from Schoolcraft are very well-prepared in their first couple of years here. And then they graduate at really impressive rates.”

student at a podium smiling — John Isbania speaks about his experience at Schoolcraft College during a signing ceremony June 15 in the Jeffress Center. Isbania will attend classes at Wayne State University in the fall, with plans to graduate with a bachelor’s degree next year.

One such student that is a great example of that relationship between the two institutions is John Isbania, who began taking classes at Schoolcraft College while he was still in high school. He recently finished up taking courses at Schoolcraft College and will begin at Wayne State University in the fall, with plans to major in marketing management. He hopes to graduate with his bachelor’s degree next year.

He credits the faculty of Schoolcraft College for helping him keep on the right path academically, which led him to make the Dean’s List this past semester.

“The faculty and my professors here really made me want to take a step forward and succeed at my best,” he said. “I did not believe this was possible until the professors with me would always, anytime I had something concerning with my classes or whether I was able to get the work in, they would always be there to help me outside of class.” Registration for fall classes is currently underway at Schoolcraft College. For more information, including how to enroll, visit schoolcraft.edu.

Header Photo Caption: Representatives including Schoolcraft College President Dr. Glenn Cerny, Schoolcraft College Chief Academic Officer Stacy Whiddon, Wayne State University Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs Mark Kornbluh and Wayne State University Vice President for Academic Student Affairs and Global Engagement Ahmad M. Ezzeddine participate in the signing ceremony held June 15 in the Jeffress Center.

June 5, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

Projected teacher shortages in the next few years have led to a special partnership between Schoolcraft College and one local high school to expose students to development opportunities that’s currently wrapping up its second year.

The Schoolcraft Teacher Education Program (S.T.E.P.), which began in 2021, is a collaborative initiative between Schoolcraft College and the CTE TEACH Pathway Western International High School in Detroit. Through the program, students can take college courses while still in high school, as well as providing them hands-on experience in classrooms by working with elementary students, among others.

Such a program is valuable, especially in Michigan: 71% of all schools in the start were understaffed during the 2021-2022 school year, a stat that’s not expected to reverse anytime soon: teacher shortages over the next five years will be a “disabling factor” in making sure students meet standards and benchmarks.

Working with College and Beyond instructor Professor Janice Tomlinson and Ryan Masters, a teacher at both Schoolcraft College and Western International High School, students have spent plenty of time learning about what’s needed and what type of options they have when they prepare to graduate high school. That includes earning college credit, visiting the college’s campus multiple times a year, engaging in Career and Project Based Learning and volunteering.

“We are grateful to the teachers, Ryan Masters and Janice Tomlinson, and Robert Santavicca, assistant principal at Western International High School of the Detroit Public School systems, for providing us with an opportunity to share in the transformational impact of TEACH on the lives of students,” said Melissa Schultz, Chief Student Enrollment Officer at Schoolcraft College. “Enhancing the TEACH Career and Technical Education curriculum with college coursework and campus visits is a creative way to prepare students for the workforce while also opening doors for higher education. The S.T.E.P. and TEACH programs are a bridge to endless possibilities for students seeking personal and professional growth.”

Several students recently traveled to Schoolcraft College and presented their e-portfolio capstone project to their classmates and college officials. One of those students, Paris Kaled, said the program has helped him simplify the rest of his high school career, as well as given him the opportunity to work with organizations such as Soar Detroit, a tutoring program that works with students in the city.

“Soar is a good opportunity for myself and for a lot of other people to try out a job, because you are getting direct tutoring experience,” he said. “I have now had a student in two months go from a high school dropout who hasn’t touched any books in 10 years to passing the GED. It clearly worked.”

Santavicca said he’s enjoyed having the relationship with Schoolcraft College and the opportunities it provides the high school’s students. “It’s been heartwarming,” he said. “They’ve been really, really good to work with.”

May 30, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

Schoolcraft College and the Office of Equity & Engagement is proud to highlight and showcase distinguished members of our AAPI community here on campus. Throughout the month of May, we will be lifting the voices of administrators, faculty, staff and students.

Meet Yan Li, the current vice president of leadership of Phi Theta Kappa Omicron Iota Chapter.

As the current vice president of leadership for the chapter, Li is committed to making an impact. As a student leader a few of the ways that he upholds the pillars of Scholarship, Leadership, Service and Fellowship is through his activism as a math tutor, as a PAL leader for Anatomy and Physiology and engagement with my peers both on campus and throughout the PTK Michigan Region participating in events that help to promote inclusion and equity among our diverse communities.

Li is a Chinese American in the nursing program and member of AAPI, which is represented by 75 different countries. China’s history extends beyond 5,000 years, is composed of over 300 languages, and is home to more than 1.4 billion people. Despite its large population in Asia, we are a minority here in America with only 5.4 million out of the overall 331 million population. With being a minority there comes certain stereotypes, which includes that Asians are all good at math, relatively quiet and generally not willing to speak up for themselves.

This isn’t the case for everyone. In fact, there are members of the community who will share with you that math is not their favorite subject! And while some people may be quieter, they speak up for themselves when they find their values being challenged. The hate generated against the Asian community due to the COVID-19 pandemic was a very difficult time and required young leadership to step up. Members of the community refused to entertain certain stereotypes that suggested those of Chinese descent are responsible for the pandemic that engulfed the world.

It is examples like these that require everyone to stand as allies in the battle against injustices. With an ever-more divided country, a willingness to understand and be kind to each other is essential. Because otherwise, what are we?

Until Li had his son, he didn’t realize how much he wanted him to be a part of the AAPI family. Even though his membership in the family was inherited, Li still knew it needed to start with him. Showing how to be proud of his culture, his roots and even the language that helps him express his values daily. If they are cherished by his son as much as they are by Li, then there is tremendous hope for generations to come, but it will take all of us and it must begin now.

Members of the AAPI community are strong, independent and are willing to stand up for themselves, but most importantly, are a part of this great nation. This is also why the next generation is so important.

May 25, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

Meet Sharon Christian | Associate Dean of Student Success and Retention

Working on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Taskforce has brought Sharon Christian, Schoolcraft College’s Associate Dean of Student Success and Retention, closer to her Asian-American heritage.

With thousands of student contacts each semester, she works with a professional staff and student team to provide academic support and resources. Serving in that role has inspired her to be a voice and leader for fostering belonging and inclusion on campus.

“I get to do this meaningful work every day, as we meet countless students, staff, and faculty on a regular basis. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion must be embedded into everything we do, and I am very grateful to be a member of this taskforce, which allows me the opportunity to drive meaningful change at Schoolcraft College,” she said.

Celebrating AAPI month is a time of reflection and celebration, especially given the wide range of cultures, customs and faiths. With hundreds of languages and plenty of contributions across the globe, Christian said it’s important to note the challenges Asian Americans face, including being considered a “monolith”.

“While celebrating is important and enjoyable, during this month it is equally important to acknowledge the challenges that AAPI communities face and actively participate in the resolution process,” she said. “Asian Americans are often considered a monolith: grouped together as individuals who are “all the same”.

Christian knows firsthand how diverse Asian Americans can be: she was born in India, a country with a vast number of dialects.

Combating the Model Minority stereotype is another challenge Asian Americans can face, something that exists in addition to barriers such as the double-glass ceiling for women and experiences of emotional tax. Lastly, the Model Minority Myth also perpetuates a monolith view of Asian Americans, which conceals pockets of AAPI populations who experience poverty and hardship.

“This is especially concerning as this perception may contribute to their communities not receiving the support that they need,” Christian said. “To resolve these concerns, no one-size-fits-all solution exists, but there are small actions you can take that can have a lasting impact.”

This myth is especially pervasive and detrimental as it is often used to pit Asian Americans against other races by comparing the collective success of Asians against others who have not experienced the same level of success. It contributes to the myth that AAPI are successful for not challenging the status quo and minimizes pressing issues AAPI members face, rendering them feeling invisible.

In the business world, challenging the status quo is often seen as a positive trait when done appropriately, as this is considered a risk-taking characteristic associated with leadership; however, Asian Americans are often seen as too risk-averse to be viewed as leaders.

The best way to get past all these stereotypes? Recognizing every AAPI person has a unique path and a rich, diverse culture that makes up their day-to-day life, Christian said.

“Ask thoughtful, personalized questions about their experiences, listen, learn, and engage with their responses, and amplify AAPI voices,” she said. “Include AAPI input in larger conversations, commit to actionable outcomes, construct systems that foster belonging and inclusion, and share in their achievements, joy, and successes.

“Sharing joy brings people together, and we can do this while honoring our differences and collectively take a step forward to building a better world.”

May 3, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

The Schoolcraft College Board of Trustees swore in longtime Livonia resident Candy Little as its newest member on April 27, 2023. Little fills the vacancy created by Joan Gebhardt.

Little has been a committed and active member of the Livonia community for 16 years. She has dedicated her time to various local efforts, including serving on the PTA community for Coolidge Elementary and sitting on various committees for the Livonia Public School District.

person being sworn in next to American flag

“Working with the PTA and other committees as my daughter progressed through Livonia schools instilled in me the importance of supporting local education,” said Little. “I’m so excited to again lend my passion for students and local communities as part of the Schoolcraft team. I have followed the college’s work to expand opportunities for all students and am thrilled to now be a part of the team to do even more for this community.”

Little graduated from Wayne State University in 1996 with a Bachelor of Chemistry. She then immersed herself in the pharmaceutical industry, holding positions at several pharmaceutical companies and clinical research organizations. She is currently a Senior Clinical Research Specialist and Institution Lead Clinical Research Associate at Merck.

In addition to her pharmaceutical and educational background, Little has served on the Livonia Water and Sewer Board since December 2020. She and her daughter have been residents of Livonia for 16 years.

April 25, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

The Schoolcraft College Mathematics Department has recently announced the winners of the prestigious Pythagorean Prize, an annual scholarship given to the top three mathematics students of the academic year.

Founded by Professor Emeritus Larry Williams, it’s the department’s biggest prize and is now in its 28th year. To be considered, an applicant must:

Be enrolled and have taken classes at Schoolcraft College during Fall or Winter semester of the academic year of presentation.
Be completing or have completed at least three mathematics courses at Schoolcraft College, with at least one course at the Math 200 level or above.
Have an overall grade point average of at least 3.25.
Have a grade point average of at least 3.50 in mathematics courses.
Not have been a first-place winner of this award previously.
Have submitted a completed application and essay by the deadline date.

This year’s winners are:

First place: Yash Patel, $3,000
Second place: Brendan Hessling, $1,500
Third place: Colin Lazarski, $1,000

Yash Patel, the first-place winner, enrolled in Schoolcraft College in the fall of 2021 and has excelled despite the challenges of moving to a new country and the pandemic. He has taken every 200-level math class Schoolcraft offers, earning 4.0 in all of them. Patel is also a tutor in the Learning Center and an active member of the Math & Physics Club. Patel plans to pursue a degree in aerospace engineering and credits his family for supporting him throughout his educational journey.

Brendan Hessling, the second-place winner, is pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. This was his second attempt at the Pythagorean Prize, and he prepared for it by attending the previous year’s ceremony and learning from the winners. He plans to use his mathematical skills daily in his future career and advises future Schoolcraft College students not to take the basics for granted.

Colin Lazarski, the third-place winner, is pursuing an associate degree in engineering and will graduate in the spring of 2023. Lazarski’s passion for math was inspired by his mother, and he realized it when he took his first algebra class. He plans to progress his mathematical skills at Michigan State University and aspires to help solve complex problems in the field of engineering.

Larry Chorazewski, who won the Pythagorean Prize in 2005 and now oversees the competition, shared his personal journey to winning the award. He initially lacked confidence in his mathematical abilities, but he made it his goal to work as hard as he could to at least qualify for the award. With the encouragement, expertise and generosity of his mathematics instructors at Schoolcraft, he was able to achieve his goal.

The Pythagorean Prize competition is a celebration of the academic achievements of Schoolcraft College’s math students and highlights the importance of mathematics in today’s world. The competition not only recognizes outstanding students but also encourages others to pursue their passion for math and science. The Mathematics Department is proud of all the students who applied for the prize and looks forward to next year’s competition.

The prize amounts are made possible, in part, from a bequest from the family of Floyd and Marian Kehrl to the Schoolcraft College Foundation. Additional funds are provided by Academic Services, the Science Division, the Mathematics Department and other instructors.

All first-place prizewinners are noted on an engraved nameplate on permanent display in the Mathematics Department’s case in the Biomedical Technology Center.

For more information about the Pythagorean Prize and Ceremony, please contact Professor Larry Choraszewski at [email protected].

March 27, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

Meet Ava, an alumna of Schoolcraft College who is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. Ava is a shining example of how hard work, dedication, and taking advantage of unique opportunities can lead to success.

Before attending Schoolcraft, Ava was concerned that a community college wouldn’t provide her with the experiences she needed to be accepted into veterinary school. However, Schoolcraft exceeded her expectations by providing her with unique opportunities such as the Ambassador Program and the Honors Scholars Program, which helped her enhance her application to veterinary school.

Ava's school paper at 7 years old — First grade school paper: “I will be a vet when I grow up.”

Ava’s passion for veterinary medicine began early on in life, and she couldn’t picture herself doing anything else. She was inspired by the veterinarians and vet nurses who mentored her and showed her the importance of passion, patience, and knowledge in the field.

When Ava found out she was accepted into Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, she was overjoyed and cried tears of joy with her mom. She is excited to engage in their diverse learning opportunities and hopes to gain confidence in her clinical skills and make a positive impact on the veterinary world.

Despite her many achievements, Ava faced challenges along her academic journey. She struggled with overcommitting and setting impossible standards for herself, which resulted in health issues. However, she learned that it’s okay to say “no” to protect her wellbeing and improve her collegiate experience.

Ava’s advice to current or aspiring students starting at Schoolcraft is to take advantage of the college’s unique opportunities, such as the small class size, connecting with professors, and trying something new. She also recommends being open-minded and trying something new.

When asked where Ava sees herself in the future, she responded “I see myself practicing veterinary medicine around the world. I am trying to remain open to different specialty’s, but I am currently interested in internal medicine and wildlife. I also hope to conduct research in whichever specialty I choose. However, I know as long as I am helping animals, I will be happy.”

Ava credits Nicole Margosian-Galindo, Schoolcraft staff member, for being an amazing resource and always believing in her. Ava’s story is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and taking advantage of unique opportunities, anyone can achieve their dreams.

Nicole is a mentor and program coordinator for the Honors Program at Schoolcraft College and currently serves as the Coordinator for the Experiential Learning Center. She talks about Ava, one of her Honors Scholars, and how her passion and drive led to her success both academically and personally. Nicole highlights Ava’s involvement in animal rescue and her internships in research, as well as her exceptional performance in courses and volunteer work as a Student Ambassador.

Nicole emphasizes the importance of providing support to students and listening to their needs. She believes that access to opportunities and finding balance are important factors in success, but ultimately, it is a student’s belief in themselves that is most critical. Nicole believes that the Honors Program helped Ava develop a strong network of supportive individuals and friendships that will benefit her in the future.

The Schoolcraft College Scholars Honors Program was founded in 1998 and is designed to provide talented, academically-motivated students with an enhanced educational experience. Schoolcraft Scholars enjoy frequent interaction with peers and honors faculty in a learning environment that promotes scholarship and community. They are challenged to grow intellectually, increase their awareness of the society around them, question the status quo, think critically, work collaboratively, and become involved in the community through service-learning projects.

When looking back on her time mentoring Ava, Nicole is most proud to have played a small role in her life and to see the incredible accomplishments she has achieved. She believes that Ava is destined for greatness and is excited to see where her future takes her.

March 21, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

Schoolcraft College’s President, Dr. Glenn Cerny, hosted Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib on Tuesday, March 14^th for a campus tour that culminated with a discussion opportunity for students. Congresswoman Tlaib, who represents Michigan’s 12^th Congressional District, visited classrooms, the newly renovated Health Sciences Center, and sports facilities, where she declared she learned all about pickle ball. She stated that she was “incredibly impressed with the new facility for health and medical.”

The Congresswoman took to the stage in the College’s Kehrl Auditorium to speak to the students about her background, her work in the Michigan Legislature, and in Congress. She spoke passionately about the creation of Neighborhood Service Centers that help individuals with everyday issues such as medical bills, Veteran’s Affairs, and IRS problems, just to name a few. She stated that these Neighborhood Service Centers “can immediately change lives today.”

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib with Dr. Glenn Cerny and spoke to students.

Multiple classes and student organizations came to hear the Congresswoman speak and actively engaged with her when she opened the floor for questions. Student’s and faculty asked questions about the Silicon Valley Bank collapse, how she maintained her mental health, the use of Harm Reduction Facilities, as well as other topics.

Dr. Cerny stated, “We are incredibly grateful for Congresswoman Tlaib’s time today. As one of the Congressional Representatives for Schoolcraft College, we felt it was important to have her visit our campus to view first-hand the work we are doing here. We look forward to continuing to work with all our elected officials to create transformational learning opportunities for our students and our community.”

March 8, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

On Tuesday, March 7th, 2023, friends, family, and former colleagues gathered at Schoolcraft College to celebrate the life of Dr. Conway A. Jeffress. There were more than 550 people in attendance, both in person and through live stream. There were many who spoke at the ceremony, including current President Dr. Glenn Cerny, former Schoolcraft President Dr. Richard McDowell, and Schoolcraft College trustees, faculty, staff and retirees.

Brandy Johnson, President of Michigan Community College Association, was there to present the College and the Family with letters from Governor Gretchen Whitmer, expressing sympathy and support for the loss of Dr. Conway Jeffress. It stated that “I am truly grateful for all the contributions Dr. Jeffress has made to our state as the president of Schoolcraft College. Dr. Jeffress has made a profound impact on the life of every student, faculty and staff member that had the pleasure of working with him. I have no doubt he will serve as an inspirational example to countless others.”

Dr. Jeffress joined Schoolcraft College in 1982 as the Vice President of Instruction and eventually succeed Dr. Richard McDowell, in 2001, to become Schoolcraft College’s fourth president. Throughout his many years of service, Dr. Jeffress was a vocal and committed advocate for the College and all whom it served. When Dr. Jeffress retired in 2020, he left a legacy that was emblematic of the College’s commitment to provide a transformational learning experience.

Dr. Jeffress’ presidential tenure saw the campus experience tremendous development. Physically, the footprint of campus was reimagined and expanded. His imprint on campus can be easily seen in the capital developments he directed. Most notably, buildings such as Vistatech (2003), Biomedical Technology Center (2008), Fitness Center (2012), Public Safety Training Complex (2013), and of course the now named Jeffress Center (2014) that were added during his presidency.

The College’s physical expansion was accompanied by remarkable growth in academic programs and student enrollment. Dr. Jeffress was committed to making Schoolcraft College a first-choice destination for students with updated academic offerings, even securing the College’s first Bachelor of Science degree program. His leadership expanded Schoolcraft’s Culinary Arts program and Business Development Center expansion. Driven by Dr. Jeffress’ leadership, Schoolcraft College developed a reputation within the state and across the country as a leader in higher education

Dr. Glenn Cerny, current president and the VP/CFO under Dr. Jeffress, stated that “The biggest thing I remember about Conway is not about the projects, not about the buildings, not about the curriculum. It’s about all the stories about the family and that he always had time…and he would listen and he was a good listener.”

Dr. Jeffress was fully cognizant of the fact that his role was a public charge and he extended his energy and talents to myriad groups and causes well beyond the confines of Schoolcraft College. He was an active leader within the Michigan Community College Association (MCCA) and was Co-Chair of the President’s Taskforce on State Appropriations. Many local organizations, including, although not limited to the Livonia Rotary Club, SEMCOG Talent Taskforce, Midwestern Higher Education Compact and 21st Century Education Commission all benefitted from his work.

Carol Strom, shared with the Jeffress family “how grateful we are that you shared him with us…It was indeed a pleasure to work with Conway, both as Board Chair and then continuing as Trustee.”

While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate his legacy. When asked in an interview in December of 2022, what he thought his legacy was at the College, Dr. Jeffress paused for a moment and then said, “I helped the College become financially solvent, I gave a sense of direction, and I have helped the people here want to be here.”

January 30, 2023 by Schoolcraft College

To create a more inclusive environment, Schoolcraft College’s Office of Equity and Engagement (OEE) is promoting multicultural awareness. In November, it dedicated its DEI newsletter to Native American Heritage Month. To bring more awareness to the challenges faced by indigenous students, the OEE recently met with Jonathan Nez, President of the Navajo Nation, and Rachel Yazzie, Alumni member and former Student Regional President of New Mexico Regions Phi Theta Kappa. The two discussed why one must listen to understand when cultivating relationships, rather than listening to respond.

It is customary among tribal members to show respect for those who came before them In the Navajo Nation. To pay homage to her ancestors, Yazzie began the conversation by introducing herself in the Navajo language.

President Nez and Yazzie then described the rich history of the Navajo, who call themselves “Dine” or “The People.” They have been living primarily in Arizona for more than 400 years, and the nation also extends into Utah and New Mexico.

An elected tribal council headed by a president governs the Navajo Nation. President Jonathan Nez began his current term on January 15, 2019. Since then, he has focused on support and advocacy for the Navajo people.

The Navajo Nation is nationally recognized for providing uranium. It is mined on tribal land and used to protect America’s borders. Most of the American military supply of uranium is direct from Navajo land.

President Nez also shared some of the challenges of the Navajo Nation, such as COVID-19. The pandemic had a major impact on the Navajo as students struggled to navigate virtual learning with a lack of internet connection. President Nez worked continuously with state and federal agencies to identify available funding and distribute it among the community. The work has not stopped as President Nez emphasized a commitment to bring tribal communities into the 21st century for access.

Yazzie explained how these efforts led to selecting President Nez for a Phi Theta Kappa Stole of Gratitude. The award recognizes his dedication to preserving the integrity of the Navajo Nation’s heritage, as well as his commitment to empowering future generations to lead, learn and grow.

Learning like this is essential to creating inclusive spaces. By better understanding various cultures, we are more mindful of different practices. President Nez helped our team understand some unique customs of the Navajo. For example, he explained the cultural difference in direct eye contact. Unlike in many western cultures, eye contact is impolite amongst Navajos.

Although traditions vary by culture, there are many commonalities among different groups. President Nez and Yazzie identified wisdom and leadership, regardless of racial origin, as key components to building strong relationships and addressing social issues.

To learn more about the Navajo Nation, visit Navajo-NSN.gov.

Photo Credits:
President Nez – Photo by Shaun Sells