Retirement Bio of Tina Hoxie

Tina has been a member of the GRCC family for nearly 30 years.

She started at the College as the Director of Student Activities after working at Aquinas College for 11 years. She was hired into the Dean of Student Affairs position at the college in late 2001. The title changed with a restructuring to Associate Provost/Dean of Student Affairs in 2013.

Tina has always appreciated and enjoyed the team and collaborative environment at GRCC with countless student focused projects and initiatives accomplished over the years through the dedication, talent and expertise of so many people. 

There were always stories of unexpected happenings tied to the commencement event.  Tina shares the following example:  Rain pouring down as the last graduate moved from the plaza and stepped inside the fieldhouse side door – thanks to the weather advice from alumnae Bill Steffens via cell phone.

The commencement team works hard to ensure this evening is a special celebration for our graduates and their families. A story that always brings a smile with thankfully a happy ending – We are 5 minutes from starting the ceremony and I spot Elaine McCormick heading towards me at a fast pace. When she reaches me from across the Ford Fieldhouse floor, she hands me a 3 year old and says to the little girl, “She is a mom and will take care of you.” Before I could say anything, I am holding a 3 year old who is looking at me with the expression, who are you? And fortunately, isn’t crying yet. Elaine is gone and nowhere to be seen. With the help of a few other the child was returned to her family in record time and commencement started on time. When I ask Elaine later that evening, what she was thinking, “I needed to get my group ready to start, handoff this little girl to someone, and you were the first person I spotted.”

Tina shares two special times at GRCC that she has always thoroughly enjoyed every single year:

Top on the list is the first week of each semester as new and returning GRCC students start and restart to pursue their educational next steps and dreams. There is such great energy on campus as student find their way and everyone works together to welcome and support a successful semester start.

The second would be the final weeks as the semester wraps up and commencement approaches. Being a part of the Student Leadership dinner and other student honoring events at this time of year is humbling especially when I talk with students firsthand and they describe their journey to completing their certificate and or associate degree.  The education experiences and the support students receive from the GRCC faculty, staff, and other students make a difference and are so impactful.

There is no better place to be than at GRCC and having the opportunity to do such rewarding and motivating work.

Encouraging students to go to college, helping and meeting their needs as they start, stop, work through the unexpected, and come back to finish their goals. The relationships and connections across campus have always made my job easy. The GRCC staff do an amazing job caring for, supporting, and serving our students. It has always been my passion to continually work toward improving the student experience, reduce student barriers, help student succeed, and find ways to increase access to GRCC. I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with so many incredible students over the years and with a team of people at GRCC who give it their all!

Tina’s plans for retirement are still coming together…

I am still thinking about what I will do when I retire! The short retirement list includes spending more time with my family and friends, golf, and I am sure the list will become longer and longer with fun things to enjoy.

Someone asked me the other day if there was anything that I would change looking back. I couldn’t think of anything.  I have looked forward to coming to work every day and energized on what was coming up next.  

My Story Started at GRCC: Alicia Sanchez-Harmon says real-life experiences at GRCC led to career in early childhood education

Alicia Sanchez-Harmon wants every child who enters her All Saints Academy classroom to feel welcomed and loved.

She learned how to make that happen from the Child Development faculty at GRCC.

“I always loved children but never thought I would make a career out of it,” Sanchez-Harmon said. “I took a few Child Development classes to help fill up some requirements, and I never looked back! They really helped me discover what I was put on this earth to do.”

Start at GRCC and go anywhere. Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC gave them the education and opportunity to be successful.

Sanchez-Harmon  valued the real-life experiences she had with the program and her work in the state-of-the-art Phyllis Fratzke Early Childhood Learning Laboratory. She especially appreciated the honest classroom conversations about challenges she and her fellow students faced.

“All of my professors created a safe place to vent and come up with ways to combat our issues,” she said.

After earning an associate degree in 2019, Sanchez-Harmon was hired by Head Start for Kent County. She worked there while finishing her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at Ferris State University’s Grand Rapids campus. Through the “3+1” agreement between the two schools, she was able to transfer to Ferris State University as a senior after receiving her associate degree.

“The flexibility of GRCC and FSU‘s 3+1 program allowed me to obtain two degrees while working full time and gaining meaningful experience,” she said.

Last summer, Sanchez-Harmon became a pre-K teacher at All Saints Academy – the school she attended! Her GRCC experience prepared her for the role.

“My experience at GRCC was valuable because as I entered into my bachelor’s-level classes, I felt prepared,” she said. “I had a strong understanding of how young children learn and was ready to build on that knowledge. I had many projects, notes and lesson plans from my time at GRCC that I was able to refer back to when I felt stuck. I also felt the support of my GRCC professors and lab instructors as they would always check in with me.

“I am forever grateful to the amazing teachers at the ECLL who steered me toward my passion!”

Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at grcc.edu/apply.

Jerad Berkenpas, Dylan Chargo power GRCC baseball in split with Lake Michigan College

After dropping the opener 14-6, the Grand Rapids Community College baseball team bounced back to shutout Lake Michigan College 4-0, with starting pitcher Jerad Berkenpas tossing six scoreless innings.

In game one, GRCC’s Dylan Chargo hit a two-out grand slam — his third home run of the year — in the top of the third inning to give GRCC an early 4-0 lead. But the Red Hawks scored 14 runs in the next three innings to win convincingly.

LMC out-hit the Raiders 14-10, four of which went for extra bases.

GRCC’s Jacob Gumieny and Xander Reisbig each had two hits, including a double and an RBI.

Berkenpas’ dominating performance in the nightcap included six scoreless innings, eight strikeouts and just two walks. The win improved his record to 3-1.

Two of GRCC’s runs came off an error and an RBI single by Zacarias Salinas in the fourth inning.  In the top of the seventh, Gumieny hit an RBI triple which he also scored on after an LMC error.

GRCC’s defense was stellar all game long, committing no errors while LMC totaled four in the game.

The split brings GRCC’s season record to 4-16. The team is set to play Cornerstone University’s junior varsity squad on April 5 in a double header at home starting at 2 p.m.  The team takes on LMC again at home on April 7.  

PTK Michigan Region Convention

On March 30, 2022, GRCC hosted the third (and hopefully last) virtual Regional PTK Convention.  A huge shout out goes to IT/ Media, specifically Dustin Bacon. 

During the evening, we held our Regional Officer elections, regional award ceremony and had a keynote speaker.  As our PTK Honors Study topic for the upcoming year is the Art & Science of Play, our speaker used magic to talk about mental health and managing stress. 

This year our student leadership team did an outstanding job of helping the Alpha Upsilon Kappa chapter to continue to earn its 5 Star Chapter status for the 9^th year in a row.  This year we had 3 Chapter Officers (Aya Ghlaim, Emily Isyk, and Jessica Hay) and a Chapter Member (Kim Budde) who were involved with this work.   These are the other accomplishments that our GRCC Chapter was recognized for during the awards ceremony:

• We were again recognized again as a 5 Star Chapter (one of 18 in our region out of 31).
• Morgan Brown (co-advisor) won the Paragon Advisor Award.
• Aya Glaim won the Distinguish Chapter Officer Award.
• The chapter came in 2^nd place in the region for our College Project- the return to campus student survey and recommendations made to Dr Pink.
• For our Honors in Action project we placed 1^st for our “theme” (related to the writing), and 3^rd place for the “project” – health and wellness initiatives- the Smash your Stress event.
• The chapter came in 3^rd place as a Distinguished Chapter in the region.
• We had 3 members recognized for the All Michigan Academic Team (Brent Yacks, Amela Puskar and Ramesh Kafley)
• Kim Budde won one of the four $250 regional scholarships.
• Natalie Alvarado won one of the four $250 regional scholarships.

Through the work of this team, eligible GRCC students can join PTK and be eligible for thousands in scholarships as they transfer on to their 4-year institution.  We are so proud of the team and all the work that they have accomplished as they proudly represent GRCC.

Tech Tips: Changing the default MFA option on your MyGRCC Account

Would you rather have the one time passcode delivered via text message to your phone rather than your personal email on file? Please follow the knowledge base for instructions on how to edit this feature in the profile of your MyGRCC portal.  

Changing Default Multi-Factor Delivery Method

For more information and helpful tips, please visit the IT Customer Support Portal or contact the IT Customer Support Desk at x4357.

If you have a suggestion or a Technology Tip you think can be useful, you can submit them by emailing techtips@grcc.edu 

GRCC In the News 04/04/2022

Jamarion’s Journey

3/29/22 FOX 17

KENTWOOD, Mich. — In 2014, Jamarion Lawhorn was thrust into the spotlight after a brutal crime on a Kentwood playground.

… Lawhorn also signed up for classes at Grand Rapids Community College in the weeks following his release.

Ferris State University Names First Black President, Dr. Bill Pink

3/29/22 Diverse: Issues in Higher Education

Ferris State University (FSU) in Big Rapids, Michigan, has named Dr. Bill Pink as its next president, making Pink the first Black individual to helm the institution when he begins his service in July, pending board approval.

Pink is currently president of Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC) and has spent more than 30 years in academia as a teacher, administrator, and community leader. GRCC Board of Trustees chairman David Koetje said that their institution blossomed under Pink’s leadership.

GRCC president tapped to become new Ferris State University president

3/30/22 schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District)

After five years as GRCC president, Bill Pink was unanimously selected as the sole finalist to become the 19th president of Ferris State University, the FSU Board of Trustees announced on Monday, March 28.

FSU’s David Eisler Reflects on Time as President

3/30/22 9and10news.com

Ferris State University announced on Monday their selection for their new president, Grand Rapids Community College President Bill Pink.

Dr. Bill Pink Ferris Announcement

3/30/22 WOOD Radio

Dr. Bill Pink, outgoing president of Grand Rapids Community College joined West Michigan’s Morning News to talk about his new job as President of Ferris State University.

A look at the 1,200 jobs LG needs to fill in Holland

3/30/22 WOOD TV

HOLLAND, Mich. (WOOD) — Vehicle battery maker LG Energy Solutions recently announced plans for a $1.7 billion expansion to their Holland facility.

… News 8 recently reported about the partnership between LG and Grand Rapids Community College proving free training for LG jobs.

Women Crafting the Beverage Industry in Grand Rapids

3/30/22 Experience Grand Rapids

USA Today has recognized Grand Rapids as the Craft Beverage Capital of America. We want to recognize some of the women who helped us get there. Their leadership has helped Grand Rapids stand out from the pack of other craft beverage destinations – and has inspired more local women to pursue their own careers in breweries, distilleries, cideries and wineries across the area.

… Callee Knoll is a relative newcomer to the local craft beverage community, having opened Archival Brewing with her husband and co-owner Levi in July 2021. Located in Belmont, just five minutes from LMCU ballpark, Archival specializes in historic-style beer, mead and cider along with seasonal, regional cuisine.

The couple met at Grand Rapids’ Secchia Institute for Culinary Education, where Callee was enrolled in the Culinary Arts program, with the goal of becoming a personal private chef. But after graduation, the Knolls decided instead to work on something together, and channeled their 30 years of combined foodservice experience into planning their own restaurant-brewery.

Ludington’s Lilli Goodrich will continue her softball career at Grand Rapids Community College

3/30/22 Local Sports Journal (Muskegon)

LUDINGTON — With her college choice behind her, Lilli Goodrich can concentrate on her senior season of softball at Ludington.

Goodrich, primarily a pitcher who moved to Ludington from Orchard View, recently inked her national letter of intent to continue her softball career at Grand Rapids Community College next spring.

Detective Wins Holland Public Safety Police Officer of Year Honors

3/31/22 WHTC

HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Mar. 31, 2022) – A detective has been awarded the Officer of the Year by the Holland Department of Public Safety’s Police Services unit.

Sarai Ramos has been on the force since 2014, when she served a year as a cadet while attending Grand Rapids Community College, and was promoted to a full-time basis in November of 2015. She worked as a patrol officer, evidence technician and control tactics instructor before becoming a detective five years ago. Ramos’ supervisor nominated her for this honor “for her excellent investigative skill, and she is highly respected within the department,” according to a Public Safety statement.

Samara Kolehouse signs with GRCC to continue her softball career

3/31/22 Local Sports Journal (Muskegon)

KENT CITY – Kent City senior Samara Kolehouse has signed with Grand Rapids Community College.

Luis Amado: From Churros Cart to Chocolate Academy

3/31/22 Pastry Arts Magazine

Chef Amado began his foray into the culinary world at the age of 16, selling churros in the streets of Guadalajara, Mexico. As a young man he made the move to the U.S. to pursue an education in culinary arts. In 1992 he graduated from Grand Rapids Community College, and not long after, traveled to Belgium where he worked to develop his knowledge of classical European pastry and chocolate.

Grand Valley University celebrates Cesar Chavez Day with community events

3/31/22 WGVU

In honor of Cesar Chavez Day, Grand Valley State University’s (GVSU) Office of Multicultural Affairs and Latino Student Union have collaborated to host two local non-profit organizations for a panel discussion on migrant farm workers rights and how students can get involved.

… In addition to the Wednesday event, GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella and Grand Rapids Community College President Bill Pink will be honored Thursday, March 31, by the Committee to Honor César E. Chávez during community events to celebrate the labor and civil rights leader.

Nieto de Cesar Chàvez destaca el valor de server a los demàs en evento de Grand Rapids

4/1/22 El Vocero

GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN (EVH)- Funcionarios de la ciudad y el condado de Kent, así como dirigentes de la comunidad hispana y funcionarios de universidades del oeste de Michigan, celebraron el 95 aniversario de Cesar Chávez haciendo llamados a la unidad.

… En la Capilla, Lupe Ramos-Montigny, líder del comité para honrar a César E Chávez, junto con los presidentes de Grand Valley State University y Grand Rapids Community College hablaron sobre la importancia y el significado detrás de estos eventos, la unidad que crea entre todos los habitantes y cómo impacta generaciones posteriores.

(GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN (EVH) – Officials from the city and Kent County, as well as Hispanic community leaders and university officials from West Michigan, celebrated the 95th anniversary of Cesar Chavez by calling for unity.

… In the Chapel, Lupe Ramos-Montigny, leader of the committee to honor César E Chávez, along with the presidents of Grand Valley State University and Grand Rapids Community College, spoke about the importance and meaning behind these events, the unity they create among all the inhabitants and how it impacts later generations.)

Au revoir, Michigan

4/1/22 schoolnewsnetwork.org (Kent Intermediate School District)

Cedar Springs — When French teacher Polly Johnson and seven of her students board a flight to Paris this weekend, it will be a monumental occasion in more than one way.

… High school senior and traveler Abbey Salisbury took the three years of French classes offered at Cedar Springs and then continued with another semester of French at Grand Rapids Community College. She first signed up for this trip when she was a sophomore and is eager to practice the language with native speakers. 

 GV Student Senate hosts ‘Elect Her’ event

4/4/22 The Lanthorn (Grand Valley State University’s student newspaper)

The Grand Valley State University Community Service Learning Center (CSLC), in partnership with Student Senate, hosted “Elect Her” on March 31. “Elect Her” was a non-partisan event that encourages women to run for elected office. 

… The panel included Grand Rapids Community College trustee Brandy Lovelady Mitchell, Allendale Township Board trustee Barb Vander Veen, State Rep. for the 76th District of Michigan Rachel Hood and State Rep. for the 80th District of Michigan Mary Whiteford. 

Diversity Lecture Series: Vibrate Higher – an evening with Talib Kweli

The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) will culminate a stellar event cycle with Talib Kweli, one of the world’s most talented and accomplished Hip Hop artists.

Kweli, author of Vibrate Higher, will discuss the beautiful struggle between art and life. Bakari Kitwana will moderate the event.

Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at 6 p.m. (EST) RSVP for event access: tinyurl.com/GRCCequity

Commencement volunteers still needed

Commencement is a not far away! Please show your support for our graduates by volunteering to help make this time memorable for our students.

Commencement will take place on Friday, April 29. Students in the School of Arts and Sciences will attend a 4:30 p.m. commencement, and students in the School of Workforce Development will be at a 7:30 p.m. service.

Most volunteer positions will require you to arrive approximately 1.5 – 2 hours prior to the start of commencement.

Complete this quick form to let us know your interest in volunteering. We will respond with additional information and your specific volunteer assignment at a later date.

Call for proposals

The Center for Teaching Excellence is seeking submissions for the Summer Teaching and Learning Institute, which will be held August 10-12. It is anticipated that the format will be a mix of in-person, virtual, and hyflex offerings.

This event is a great opportunity to provide professional development applicable to preparing for the fall semester, but also to inform attendees about new initiatives or changes to process around the College.

The proposal form is open and accepting submission through April 29.

https://forms.gle/zKei8fSU8XhdGi5U7