Spring 2012 Trinity Magazine

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IMPACT

Back in 2008, we were launching our comprehensive capital campaign The Time Is Now and preparing for the following year’s celebration of Trinity Christian College’s 50th anniversary Jubilee!

In our capital campaign communications, we spoke with full hearts about our Gratitude for the efforts of those who founded the College; with determination about taking Action and inviting our friends to join us in preparing students to answer the call God placed on their hearts; and with faith in making a Commitment to founding the next 50 years.

But today I would like to focus on another word and fourth aspect of the collaborative community efforts to serve our students and ultimately to serve the Lord.

Impact.

The capital campaign officially ended in the fall of 2011 as we exceeded our goal of $31 million! Trinity has been experiencing the campus- and life-changing effects of those gifts, one of the first being the new Trinity Athletics and Recreation Complex where the annual Jubilation! event was held in October.

This issue of TRINITY magazine features many stories of students who have benefited from the programs and facilities that have been created and expanded through the capital campaign. From the impressive brick and mortar reality of the gym expansion to the more subtle but critical funding for student research, the impact becomes more evident as each day passes and each student is better prepared than ever before for the future.

We pray that this impact—this blessing from God—continues to deepen as Trinity heads into the future, a future where The Time Is Now has continued to be an impact for today.

James M. AchterhofBonnie Beezhold ’77 Larry W. Bolt ’63 Barbara Brouwer ’67Keith E. Bruxvoort David J. Buter Beth M. Decker ’67 Dianne De Groot Larry De VriesJeff Eenigenburg ’87 Charles A. GeenenLynn Hollender ’72Arthur E. Jongsma, Jr. ’63 Terry KatsmaBruce E. LeepPeter Madany ’82

TRINITY CHRISTIAN COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2012

THE TIME IS NOW FOR A LIFETIME OF IMPACT

Steven R. Timmermans, Ph.D. President

Jayme Morren ’94 Frederick “Fritz” V. Olthof, Jr. Luis A. Oviedo ’95 Martin Ozinga IIIHenry PerezRosetta Polk-Pugh ’04Rev. Christopher SalleyMike SchoneveldRev. Lambert J. SikkemaJohn G. Stob, Jr. ’80Grace TazelaarVirginia (Ginny) Vander HartDan W. Van Prooyen ’71Rick Van Til, Sr.Calvin Walstra ’62

SPRING 2012

The Trinity Christian College magazine is published bi-annually for alumni and friends of the College. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. ©2012 Trinity Christian College admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

Trinity Christian College is a community of Christian scholarship committed to shaping lives and transforming culture.

Visit Trinity Christian College’s website at: www.trnty.edu.

DEPARTMENTS

2 NEWS

6 MAIN FEATURE

21 PEOPLE

22 ADULT STUDIES

24 DEVELOPMENT

26 ATHLETICS

28 ALUMNI

EXECUTIVE EDITORKimberly FabianExecutive Director of Marketing and Communications

LAYOUT AND DESIGNPeter Clevering ’01Associate Director of Marketing

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amanda Cleary Assistant Director of Public Relations and Communications Amy Strong ’86 Sports Information Director

PHOTOGRAPHYPeter Clevering ’01 Associate Director of Marketing

Sam Mahtani ’10 Marketing and Media Associate

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:Trinity Christian College Magazine, 6601 West College Drive, Palos Heights, IL 60463

ON THE COVERAlaina Vermeer ’12

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MOBILE WEBSITE

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IMPACT

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TROLL NATION

Trinity’s marketing students, business professors, and members of 25 different companies came together on February 15 for a Trinity Business Network (TBN)

event. The presentation featured guest speaker David Duerr, chairman and CEO of Internet marketing company Straight North.

STUDENTS GAIN BUSINESS KNOWLEDGE AT TBN EVENT

Trinity Christian College has been named to the 2012 President’s Honor

Roll for Community Service. During the 2010-11 academic year, 933 Trinity students engaged in community service and volunteered 21,436 hours through the College’s Office

of Community Partnerships and Service Learning.

The Honor Roll recognizes colleges and universities nationwide that support innovative community service and service-learning programs. The College has been included in the Honor Roll each year since the inception of the award in 2006.

TRINITY NAMED TO 2012 PRESIDENT’S HONOR ROLL FOR

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Trinity’s Gospel Choir, local high school choirs, and other guest singers came together to perform in the 13th Annual Gospel Fest on February 11. About 450 people attended the concert in the Ozinga Chapel.

Two high school students have been awarded Trinity’s Greater Chicago Christian Leadership Scholarship: Jose Gonzalez of Chicago and Nathan Smith of Lake in the Hills.

The four-year renewable grant covers tuition costs and is awarded to students from the Chicago area who are from under-represented populations at Trinity and have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and Christian commitment.

Jose Gonzalez attends John Hancock High School in Chicago and plans to major in art and design. He participated in the After School Matters program in the Hancock Verde club, which focused on redesigning and reconstructing the garden space at the high school. He was also a member of the National Honor Society, math team, and various sports teams. Nathan Smith, a student at Jacobs High School in Algonquin, plans to enroll in Trinity’s criminal justice program. He has been a member of the soccer team since his sophomore year at Jacobs and hopes to continue playing at Trinity. Smith stated that he is looking forward to meeting new people on campus and learning from others who are part of the College’s diverse community. Last year’s recipients were Alejandra Romo of Chicago and She’KunnahGlorri Striverson of Crete.

CHICAGO AREA STUDENTS AWARDED CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP SCHOLARSHIP

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Jose Gonzalez

David Duerr

GOSPEL FEST SHARES UNIVERSAL “SOUL” MUSIC

Hannah Huisman of Hudsonville, Michigan, and Kerry Garrison of Metamora, Illinois, are the recipients

of the 2012 Trinity Christian College Founders’ Scholarship. The Founders’ Scholarship is a renewable, full-tuition award available annually to two incoming freshmen.

Hannah Huisman, who plans to major in biology, is a senior at Unity Christian High School in Hudsonville and the daughter of Rev. Robert ’87 and Lisa ’86 Huisman; her sister Lette ’14 currently attends

Garrison said her sister Kelsey’s Trinity experience influenced her decision to enroll as did other important factors. “I like that Trinity is a Christian school, so I know that the curriculum will line up with

my beliefs,” she said. “I look forward to the friendships I will build, and I expect to find many peers who will challenge me and whom I can spur on as well.”

Trinity. She and her family are members of Immanuel Christian Reformed Church in Hudsonville. Visiting Trinity’s campus left an impression on Huisman. “I realized I want to be part of the amazing things going on,” she said. “It’s hard to put into words the feelings I experienced—the kindness of students, the encouragement and advice students freely gave as I began my college search, but, most of all, the love of God that seemed to radiate from every corner of the school.” Kerry Garrison, who plans to major in communication arts, is the daughter of Henry and Brenda Garrison; her sister Kelsey ’11 is a graduate of Trinity. She and her family are members of Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois.

Prospective graduate students and Trinity faculty are anticipating the beginning of the College’s new Graduate Studies programs, with classes scheduled for the Fall 2012

semester. Trinity’s Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and Master of Arts in Special Education will be offered at the College’s main campus in Palos Heights. “Our presence in the Chicago metropolitan area, coupled with the applied nature of both of these programs, answers the growing need for graduate study from a Christian perspective in the helping professions,” said President Steven Timmermans, Ph.D. Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology Those seeking an advanced degree in psychology can earn their M.A. in Counseling Psychology through either a two-year or three-

year program option. Courses are blended with online instruction and evening face-to-face classes. Graduates of the program will meet the educational requirements for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) in the state of Illinois. Master of Arts in Special Education Certified regular education teachers looking to add expertise and credentials necessary for teaching a wide range of students—from those with learning disabilities to those with severe multiple impairments—can join the M.A. in Special Education program. This program is designed for state of Illinois Learning Behavior Specialist 1 (LBS1) certification. Students earn their master’s in 1½ years by means of online and face-to-face evening classes. Other options are available for obtaining an LBS1 endorsement or certification without the master’s degree. For more information, visit graduatestudies.trnty.edu or call the Graduate Studies office at 708.239.3900.

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FULL-TUITION SCHOLARSHIPS AID OUTSTANDING STUDENTS

Hannah Huisman

Kerry Garrison

NEW MASTER’S DEGREE PROGRAMS PROVIDE ONGOING TRINITY EXPERIENCE

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Katie Alberda, Erin Albright, Amy Alheim, Kristin Alons, Anita Anderson, Jon Anderson, Megan Anderson, Jacob Andringa, Kathryn Andringa, Brianne Arnold, Sarah Auskalnis, Joey Bahena, Clayton Bailye, Kristin Balkema, Laura Ballance, Taylor Bandstra, Paola Barajas, Kelsey Barnett, Laura Batchelder, Kailyn Baum, Brian Beenes, Corinne Beezhold, Robert Birkett, Nicole Blamey, Koyah Bleah, Andrew Blok, Kristen Blok, James Blom, Joseph Blom, Earl Bloom, Joel Boender, Taylor Boice, Theresa BooneToolan, Jessica Bordenaro, Anna Bos, Lauren Bose, Adam Boyer, Catherine Bozarth, Renee Bozzi, Daniel Bracken, Jenna Brandsen, Susan Bratincevic, Elizabeth Brice, Jennifer Brink, Emily Bruinius, Tyler Brunschon, Heather Bult, Lauren Bultema, Alicia Bultsma, Matthew Buren, Lauren Burns, Jodi Busscher, David Byma, Allison Cable, Delia Cabrales, Rebecca Calhoun, Bridget Carey, Amanda Carr, Christine Carter, Aimee Casemier, Kaitlyn Claerbaut, Brian Clark, Kaleb Dean, Rachel DeBoer, Stephanie DeBoer, Kaela DeBruin, Rebecca DeHaan, Joanna DeJong, Joshua DeJong, Anneke Delport, Jennifer DeRuiter, Danielle DeVries, Rebecca DeVries, Danielle deWerff, Alyssa DeYoung, Benjamin DeYoung, Jessica DeYoung, Jonathan DeYoung, Lynne DeYoung, Kristin DiLeonarde, Kimberly Doeseckle, Alexa Dokter, Paola Dolores, Megan Doorn, Allison Doyle, Lauren Drew, Kiera Dunaway, Jeremy Dykstra, Teresa Ebbers, Jonathan Engbers, Amanda Evers, Ruth Eygenraam, Kristen Faber, Kaitlin Feddema, Rebecca Felten, Yasmin Fernandez, Anthony Ferrazzi, Anthony Fiorenzi, Annalise Flier, Zachary Flipse, Kaitlyn Fondrk, Jessica Franco, Ashley Frederick, Rebecca Garcia, Kelsey Garrison, Stefanie Geer, Jacob Gerringer, Anna Gesch, Shanda Gilligan, Molly Gobeli, Rebecca Gold, Hannah Gonzales, Justin Gordon, Sara Gottardo, Rachel Grobarcik, Johnathan Groenenboom, Brian Haak, Kevin Hahn, Mindy Hamilton, P. Caleb Hamstra, Kirsten Harms, Amanda Henderson, Nathan Hendrikse, Heather Hernandez, Abby Heynen, Annalee Hoekstra, Brian Hofman, Jonathan Holden, Elizabeth Holman, Brittany Homan, Daniel Hood, Thomas Hood, Jamie Hop, Jill Hop, Mary Houlihan, Kelly Houston, Bethany Hoving, Katie Huffman, Aletta Huisman, Chadd Huizenga, Derek Huizenga, Megan Huizenga, Michael Hume, Kristin Ipema, Megan Ipema, Michael Ippel, Julie Iwema, Jessica Jacobi, Jessica Jager, Christina Jankovic, Brittany Jansma, Kristi Jendrzejak, Amy Johnstone, Rebekah Jongert, Sarah Jongetjes, Craig Kallemeyn, Allison Karlock, Janelle Katsma, Rachel Ketchum, Melissa Kiel, Ryan Kiesel, Lydia Kijowski, Caroline Klingbeil, Richard Klootwyk, Garret Klotzbuecher, Katrina Koltz, Megan Kooima, Jonathan Koonce, Kristine Koopmans, Christopher Koutavas, Neil Krooswyk, Ashley Krygsheld, Steven Krygsheld, Michael Kunnen, Bryan Kunz, Leah Laky, Samuel Lankah, Caitlyn LaReau, Alberto LaRosa, Michael Lautermilch, Landon Lawrence, Melanie Lawrence, Alexandra Laws, Kari LeGrand, Carly Lerner, Nikole Linares, Chad Linhart, Sara Losacco, Calob Lostutter, Matthew Lovelace, Emily Lucas, Lissette Lucero, Kelly Ludwig, Jacob Maatman, Derek Maciaga, Luke Martin, Matilda McGuire, Mary Margaret McNicholas, Elizabeth Meena, Maribel Melendez, Matthew Meyer, Meghan Meyer, Ashley Miedema, Brittany Miedema, Katherine Milton, Mohamed Mohamed, Brittany Monaco, Karlie Monsma, Holli Moote, Justin Moralez, Kelsey Moshier, Monica Mott, Andrew Mulder, Claire Murphy, Shane Navratil, Cassandra Nelson, Brianna Niemoth, Audrey Noonan, Vanessa Noonan, Rebecca Norgard, John Norman, Shane Olson, Keli Ooms, Janna Ottenhoff, Kristin Paarlberg, Jamie Parise, Benjamin Pausma, Matthew Pausma, Joshua Pegman, Victoria Penley, Adam Perez, Anna Phillips, Janelle Piers, Byron Plate, Joshua Pollema, Erika Poortinga, Renae Postema, Stefanie Prince, Eric Pritchard, Courtney Randle, Rebecca Reed, Megan Regalado, Stephanie Reichert, Jenna Reidenga, Andrew Reidsma, Matthew Reilly, Shelby Reinsch, Molly Ricker, Hannah Riegler, Jacquelyn Risher, Ashley Roberts, Sarah Rodgers, Alejandra Romo, Brenda Romo, Jordan Roon, Samantha Rowe, Courtney Rozeveld, Hannah Ruckman, Kristen Rusthoven, Kathryn Sanders, April Saxsma, Hannah Schaap, Trevor Schaap, Raymond Scherrer, Rebecca Schichtel, Kayla Schoneveld, Chelsea Schuen, David Schurman, Chaz Schutt, Kathleen Schutt, Hannah Schwab, Joshua Sellers, Michael Senatore, Sara Sharik, Christine Slager, Lindsay Slager, Alyssa Slinkman, Hannah Snow, Kwangsik Sohn, Ann Solomon, Brett Soodsma, Justina South, Hannah Sprague, Samuel Staal, Katherine Stachula, Caleb Steele, Jami Stinson, Allison Stoub, She’KunnahGlorri Striverson, Emily Stursma, Holly Stuursma, Adam Suwyn, Sara Sybesma, Kristin Szydelko, Daniel Tadla, Kaitlyn Tatem, Shaun TenHaken, Daniel Thayer, Jenna Thomforde, Grace Thompson, Christopher Tidmore, Jessica Timmermans, Daniel Townsend, Lisa Trepton, Jordan Triezenberg, Abigail VanBeek, Hannah VanBeek, Anneke VanDam, Kaitlyn VanDellen, Kelly VandenBerg, Larissa Vanderleest, Amber VanderLey, Lisa VanderMeiden, Bradley VanderVelde, Abigail VanderWoude, Rebecca Vanderzee, Scott Vanderzee, Jenna VanDyk, Karley Vandyke, Kelsey VanDyken, Kyle VanEerden, Thomas VanGroningen, Victoria VanHofwegen, Jesse VanMaanen, Rebecca Vannette, Heather VanSant, Andrew VanSoelen, Kimberly VanSpronsen, Samantha Venhuizen, Rebecca Verhage, Alaina Vermeer, Hannah VerMeer, Scott Vermeer, Ashley Veurink, Daeleen Visser, Jared Visser, Brendan Vize, Logan Vos, Allison Voss, Allyson Vree, Mark Waller, Alexis Warden, Austin Warner, Hannah Wasco, Holly Webster, Joni Weidenaar, Anna Wessley, Chad Westenbroek, Jeremy Wetter, Ashley Wheeler, Kimberly Wicks, Allison Wier, Ashley Wierema, Breanna Wigboldy, Brooke Wigboldy, Kaylee Wilson, Matthew Wiltjer, Kathryn Woodside, Jaclyn Workman, Edwillis Wright, Matthew Wydra, Lori Yarmoska, Kimberly Zaagman, Gina Zandstra, Haley Zandstra, Kasey Zaremba, Kelly Zuiderveen, Paige Zylstra

DEAN’S LIST – FALL 2011

Earlier this year, Trinity launched a mobile website that provides a succinct overview of the College and

several of its key resources for individuals visiting Trinity’s website from a mobile device. With a tap of the various icons, mobile users can access basic information on academics, admissions, athletics, and other areas. They also have immediate access to Trinity’s main website in order to expand their college research.

The mobile site is also a convenience for current students, faculty, and staff who can quickly access commonly used resources including campus e-mail and Trinity’s online portals. How to access Trinity’s mobile website The mobile website will automatically appear when a user opens Trinity’s homepage from a mobile device by entering “www.trnty.edu” in the browser or by searching “Trinity Christian College” on search engines such as Google.

TRINITY BECOMES “MOBILE”


Resources for Students

Resources for Faculty

Gratitude. Action. Commitment. These were the three areas of focus during Trinity’s recent capital campaign, The Time Is Now. Gratitude for God’s blessing over the years, action in supporting the continued good work of the College, and commitment to “founding” the next 50 years.

Today we add an important word. Impact. What have the recent gifts to the capital campaign really meant to the students Trinity serves? We trust we’ll see the continued fruits of these gifts over the years, but, for now, we look at the immediate impact some areas of support have already had on Trinity’s campus and in the lives of its students.

Funding the Priceless Student Experience

Gymnasium & Athletic Fields

Enhancing Facilities

Technology


Resources for Faculty

Alaina Vermeer ’12 works with Dr. Robert Boomsma ’77.

Full story on page 15

Teammates – and Sisters – Represent Trinity

Trinity’s head women’s soccer coach Josh Lenarz ’98 was in Florida, recruiting at a club tournament for high school players when he met Hannah Gonzales of Visalia, California. But she was not the only player he was interested in recruiting at the game that day. Lenarz was also impressed with player number four, and he asked Hannah who she was.

“I thought he was kidding,” Hannah recalled. “Number four was Bekah, my younger sister.”

Now Hannah ’12 and Bekah ’14 are both elementary education majors at Trinity and members of the women’s soccer team. Hannah, the team’s goalkeeper, and Bekah, who plays defense and midfield, played their final soccer game as teammates this past November. “Playing together became more enjoyable as the competition became better,” said Hannah. “We work harder knowing we are representing the College.” As a fourth year player, Hannah has seen new additions to the soccer program, including a new turf field for competitions

and practice, part of the Rt. 83 athletic fields development. “It is nice to finally have a place we can call ours,” Hannah said, who noted that the grass fields on campus were used by the softball, baseball, soccer, and even sometimes the cross country teams. The sisters also appreciate their teammates’ and coaches’ spiritual support on, and off, the field. That support was especially important during the past season when their brother was injured. “I don’t know what I would have done without the Trinity community,” said Bekah.

(l-r) Hannah and Bekah Gonzales

Gymnasium Addition and Athletic Fields DevelopmentThe gymnasium expansion and the continuing development of the athletic fields a mile from campus on Rt. 83 provide the growing student population with ample space for learning, teamwork, and competition.


Experiencing the Trinity Athletics and Recreation Complex

Chase Sanders ’12 of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was looking to transfer from the college he attended there when a friend told him about a college he planned to attend and where he would join the basketball team. This sounded like a good idea to Sanders, who contacted the coach there only to discover the team roster was filled. That’s when the coach recommended some other Christian colleges, including Trinity. Sanders contacted Trinity’s athletics department and transferred to the College as a sophomore. Today the senior exercise science major and basketball player reflects back on his first days at Trinity and how blessed he feels to

be enjoying the new Trinity Athletics and Recreation Complex (TARC) and additional facilities. “When you walk into the new TARC, it gives you a Division I feel,” said Sanders, who makes use of the state-of-the art equipment in the new performance lab. The performance lab provides a high-tech space for exercise science majors and other students, as well as for athletes, who benefit from new equipment such as the BOD POD, a body composition tracking system and one of only four available in colleges in the Chicagoland area. That experience, as well as his internships with sports performance companies, will be valuable as Sanders graduates this month and pursues a career as a strength conditioning coach for high school students or other clients.

He also takes with him what he has gained as a Trinity student and basketball player—a stronger relationship with God, leadership skills as one of four team captains, and friendships with teammates. “You go through so much together,” said Sanders of his fellow Trolls, “and you realize that every guy is your brother.”

Bod Pod

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Learning Enhanced through Technology in Media and Art

Sophomore Heather Van Sant ’14 of Sully, Iowa, spends “A LOT” of time in the Mac lab of the Art and Communication Center (ARCC). She may be creating her own alphabet font for a class project or t-shirt designs for her brother’s band or an Interim trip group. Van Sant, who is pursuing a double major in photography and graphic design, depends on the technology available to media and art students to take her projects from artistic vision to visual art. “The design programs provided in the ARCC allow me to create these designs,” said Van Sant, who added that knowledge of these programs is

a requirement for the jobs she will pursue in the future. “The ARCC is also beneficial because it has a good environment for me as an artist,” she said. “The art faculty have their offices there, and it’s easy to pop in and ask them for their opinion or for help on projects or ideas. Other students are around, and it’s a very relaxed and fun atmosphere.” Mentoring from those professors helped Van Sant through challenges. “The faculty have been wonderful in regards to guidance,” she said. “Professor Ellen Browning doesn’t tell me what to do, but encourages me in the areas where she sees I excel.”

Van Sant also enjoys drawing and credits her growth in that area with the teaching of John Bakker, professor of art and design. “Professor Bakker really helped me unveil my style in drawing, and in one semester I could see a huge difference comparing the first critique to the last. I would say the teaching and mentoring from professors is a big reason why I have grown in my areas of study.” The skills she is acquiring are already being implemented in Van Sant’s work study position as a designer for the Trinfo digital signage system, which is displayed at various locations on campus and highlights campus events and photos.

Technology Trinity students studying science and communication arts learn the same scientific theories and media concepts as students at secular universities. The difference is the integration of faith into their academic instruction as professors prepare students to answer challenges to their Christian beliefs and to communicate truth. The provision of upgraded tools for scientific teaching and learning and equipment for students being educated in an ever-changing digital age has enhanced this learning environment.


Simulation Laboratory Creates Unique Learning Environment

Nursing student Alyssa Voogt ’14 of Orland Park, Illinois, takes the vital signs of the newborn. Everything looks normal until the patient’s body becomes flaccid. Voogt responds, implementing what she has learned in the classroom to assess the symptoms and treat the “patient.” It’s just that this patient is not an actual newborn in a hospital but the Department of Nursing’s newest interactive simulator, the SimNewB. With realistic newborn traits and lifelike clinical feedback, this addition to the recently completed Cynthia Sander Nursing Lab provides Trinity nursing students with hands-on learning that better prepares them for their field experience and future careers in healthcare. “The Sim is life-like, and provides a way for students to see situations in action rather than having to imagine a scenario and try to respond to it,” said Voogt, a transfer student from Moraine Valley Community

College. Voogt’s mother, a nurse with more than 30 years of experience, has been a great support to Voogt and visited the lab to see firsthand the educational advantages enjoyed by her daughter today. Although Trinity’s nursing technology has advanced exponentially over the past year, the integration of a Christian perspective in teaching nursing continues as it always has. “In the medical world, you are forced to think about what you believe and why,” said Voogt. “In class, we discuss how to respond as Christians as well as nurses when caring for patients.” Student Brian Beenes ’13 of Oak Forest, Illinois, appreciates the same aspects of his Trinity nursing education. His wife, Mindy (Mouw) ’06 is a labor and delivery nurse at MetroSouth Medical Center in Blue Island, Illinois, and has supported her husband in his decision to pursue their shared passion for healthcare and helping others. Beenes, whose first semester clinical was at St. James Hospital in Olympia Fields, Illinois,

said he felt prepared for the experience by his lab work at Trinity. ”The professors set up situations we would see inside of a hospital,” he said, explaining a recent emergency room scenario in which the faculty programmed the manikin to exhibit signs of a seizure, requiring Beenes—who plans to one day work in an ER—to respond accordingly. “The simulation lab experience reinforces classroom learning and provides us with immediate and helpful feedback from the professors,” said Beenes. “Overall, I feel more prepared for my nursing career.”

“...we discuss how to respond as Christians as well as nurses when caring for patients.”

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Resources for StudentsJust like campus facilities, resources for students, such as affordable Christian higher education and paths to health and wellness, have been expanded and enhanced to meet the increasing academic and physical needs of students.

Scholarships Put Christian Higher Education within Reach

When many of her fellow high school students were looking at math as just a required course, Alexa Dokter ’15 of Homer Glen, Illinois, was already making plans to teach it. Upon graduating as valedictorian of her Chicago Christian High School senior class, Dokter had already accrued college credit and is now in sophomore standing in her second semester at Trinity. Dokter benefited from a variety of scholarships and grants, including the Mathematics, President’s Honors, and Madany Math and Science scholarships. She said her scholarships were a deciding factor in attending Trinity. But other factors contributed, including her familiarity with and love of the campus (her sister Jess Clevering ’01 is an alumna), an enthusiastic and caring admissions counselor, and the excellent reputation of the education department. Dokter was earlier inspired by a former high school teacher and today is inspired by teachers like Associate Professor of Mathematics Mandi Maxwell, Ph.D., who Dokter calls “patient and passionate about math.” Another sister is also a math teacher.

She plans to teach high school math, although the type of math isn’t as important to her as the motive. “I want to reach students at the point they start hating math,” she said. Dokter observes the way her favorite professors teach—math and other courses—and the methods they employ, including everything from group work to singing hymns. “I think about how I can incorporate a variety of methods someday in my own classroom,” she said.

“I want to reach students at the point they start hating math.”


Serving the Whole Person

Jane Martin, R.N., is sitting at a table in the Elizabeth Meyer Memorial Student Health Center making up “comfort packs” for students who may walk through the doors this week. The pack includes acetaminophen, cough drops, and other supplies for students who may be experiencing flu-like symptoms. It also contains contact information for local physicians and clinics and an information sheet explaining the differences between the flu virus and normal cold symptoms. Martin and two other registered nurses rotate throughout the week to coordinate and assist in the healthcare decisions of Trinity students, who welcome the comfort and guidance, especially those who live far from home. The nurses help such students establish relationships with local physicians, a process that can also begin prior to a student’s arrival on campus. This is especially reassuring for families whose students may have existing conditions, like diabetes or allergies.

“Educating and empowering students with their health decisions is rewarding,” said Martin, who has more than 32 years of nursing experience. She explained that one of her favorite ways of providing care is following up with students after a visit to the health center. “What is nice about a small college is the ability we have to follow up and make sure students have the knowledge and support they need,” she said. That access to knowledge also comes from seminars the center hosts in cooperation with the College’s Cooper Career and Counseling Center. A recent Heart Healthy Seminar with a visiting nurse practitioner offered students the opportunity to discuss the importance of lifestyle choices in preventing heart disease. “We encourage students to be active participants in their own health care and foster healthy decision making,” said Martin.

“We encourage students to be active participants in their own health care...”

The student health center provides basic first aid items or equipment the students may need. After meeting with a student, nurses can recommend further care. And it isn’t unusual for Martin to make a “dorm call” to a student who is too sick to leave the room for a visit to the center. Martin said she loves her work. “The students are great, and I love the relationships we develop with them as we care for them.”

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Resources for FacultyCollaboration between students and faculty on research projects expands and enriches students’ learning beyond the classroom. Supporting those collaborations are opportunities for faculty to pursue scholarly projects, work on summer research, and attend conferences.


DeKruyter Endowment Provides for Special Projects in Teaching and Research Trinity’s faculty pay attention to intersections between teaching and scholarship as they strive for excellence in teaching. To support those efforts, the College equips professors with the time and resources to produce scholarly projects. Dr. Craig Mattson, professor of communication arts and director of the Honors Program, explained that one such “intersection” between scholarship, teaching, and rhetoric involved a collaborative conference presentation he gave with four students on a cause-related marketing campaign. “Thanks in part to our in-class conversations and shared criticism, I have since developed an essay on the campaign to be published this summer in the Southern Journal of Communication.” Enriching faculty development and student learning toward a more artful and ethical practice of rhetoric is the purpose of the DeKruyter Endowment for the Communication Arts Special Projects. Rev. Dr. Arthur DeKruyter was a founder of the College and founder and long-time pastor of Christ Church in Oak Brook, Illinois. The fund began with a bequest from the estate of Arthur and Gladys DeKruyter. “Practicing artful and ethical rhetoric always requires attention for more than one thing at once—it’s about both style and substance, form and content, eloquence and truth,” said Mattson, who points to The Economics of Attention as lending insight into the impact of rhetoric. “Rhetoric is an art form that requires a highly mobile focus. That kind of focus is hugely important in students’ attempts to live faithfully and wisely in our highly changeable society.” He said possible directions for implementing the fund are in “infancy stages” but is excited by the “wonderful breadth” of the fund and the donors’ commitments to supporting faculty scholarship. Mattson said future plans could include the formation of a debate team and visits from significant scholars in the field to address students.

Vermeer and Koltz are working under the tutelage of Drs. Robert Boomsma ’77, professor of biology, and Clayton Carlson, assistant professor of biology, respectively. The students agree that the mentorship enhances their learning and said that the professors’ guidance extends beyond the classroom and lab into help with choosing and applying to grad school. Vermeer, who transferred from Calvin College, plans to enroll in optometry school after graduating from Trinity. Koltz, who is married to alumnus Joseph Koltz ’12, transferred from Moraine Valley Community College and plans to attend graduate school for physical therapy.

Koltz said she greatly appreciates how her Christian viewpoint was “accepted” and “mainstream” at Trinity. “My classes at Trinity showed me how my learning could be Christ-centered,” she said. Vermeer has especially enjoyed dorm life at Trinity. “Living on campus is a huge factor in forming friendships and supporting my spiritual life.” She has also enjoyed having her sister Hannah ’15 as a fellow student. The next step for the senior science students? To present their research findings at the College’s annual OPUS event, which showcases student scholarship, and then at the student symposium of the Associated Colleges of the Chicago Area (ACCA).

Vander Velde Scholars Pursue Scientific Research Nothing enhances classroom learning like hands-on research under the guidance of a professor. Biology majors Alaina Vermeer ’12 (cover)of Leighton, Iowa, and Katrina Koltz ’12 of Crestwood, Illinois, know this well. Both students, who are Vander Velde Scholars, are spending their last semester studying aspects of adult (mesenchymal) stem cells derived from bone marrow and their connection with natural tissue repair and regeneration.

New technology and instruments in the laboratory make it possible for student researchers to identify and measure things they haven’t been able to before and to do so more accurately and consistently. Modern biology is equipment dependent, and continuous upgrades in the lab expose students to current capabilities and support them in conducting research that is meaningful. An even greater support is the help from professors.

Katrina Koltz ’12 works with Dr. Clayton Carlson.

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OFFICE OF LEARNING SERVICES STUDENTS MENTOR FELLOW CLASSMATES The Office of Learning Services (OLS) provides academic resources, which enable students to accomplish their goals. The Supplemental Instruction (SI) program, overseen by Lisa Kuiper, coordinator of student support services, trains student leaders to lead SI group study sessions each week. The leaders attend lectures and act as facilitators to help students process the course material and study more efficiently. SI is most often offered for biology, chemistry, math, and accounting. “SI attendees have remarked on how helpful the sessions are to their understanding of course material,” said

Kuiper. “Many students offer very positive comments about the sessions and the leaders.”

The leaders also benefit from the program.Jacob Andringa ’13 of South Holland, Illinois, an accounting major, leads study sessions in accounting principles for traditional and Adult Studies students. The added benefit to helping other students is the reinforcement of his learning. “Since accounting builds on itself so much over the years, it is helpful to refresh my memory of all the basics of accounting,” he said. This is Amanda Henderson’s ’13 (pictured)first semester as an SI leader, although the junior biology major from Calgary, Canada, worked as a tutor for two years in the OLS. Like Andringa, she benefits from the review. “Listening to anatomy lectures and preparing SI sessions has allowed me to

review the material I will be expected to know for my medical school exams.” She believes the experience has also built her leadership skills, a skill math education major Courtney Rozeveld ’13 of Lake City, Michigan, especially appreciates. “I looked at this job as an opportunity to gain even more teaching experience,” said Rozeveld, who began tutoring as a freshman and took on the SI leader role in spring 2011. “The reward comes at the end of the semester when students can honestly say they would not have done as well in the course without my help,” she said. “It is amazing to realize you’ve helped someone learn something valuable that they will use for the rest of their lives.”

Enhancing Facilities THE REDESIGN OF THE MOLENHOUSE STUDENT CENTER provides an improved space that houses important support services for students, including:

• Office of Learning Services (OLS)

• Office of Community Partnerships and Service Learning

• Cooper Career and Counseling Center

• Student Activities, as well as Student Association, the student body government.


“RIGHT AFTER THE INTERIM, I CHANGED MY MAJOR TO ELEMENTARY EDUCATION.”

OFFICE OF COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND SERVICE LEARNING PARTNERING WITH AND SERVING IN THE COMMUNITY Entering Trinity as a psychology major changed Jackie Sanchez’s life, but not in the way she expected. During her sophomore year, Sanchez ’12 of Berwyn, Illinois, participated in Trinity’s annual Interim service project at Restoration Ministries in Harvey, Illinois, led by Associate Professor of Psychology Mary Lynn Colosimo, Ph.D. That service included work at a local nursing home, Restoration’s thrift store, and the organization’s after-school program. Sitting with the children and helping them with homework turned out to be a pivotal moment for Sanchez, a first generation college student.

“Right after the Interim, I changed my major to elementary education,” said Sanchez, who has continued to work with the after-school program through Trinity’s Office of Community Partnerships and Service Learning.

The office, directed by Anna Rosas ’06, develops resources in the community and opportunities for student involvement, furthering students’ education and understanding of issues faced within the community. Sanchez explained that her education courses have prepared her well for her future teaching career as well as the tutoring she does at Restoration. “I can sit down with a student who hates long division and break it down in parts,” she said. “It’s a process you teach step by step.” And it is reminiscent of the past few years at Trinity for Sanchez, who has taken the next step in her journey and applied for a student-teaching position in Harvey, hoping to teach the kids she helps after school and works with in summer camps.

Sanchez said she believes in teaching by example and words. “You keep your cool when playing kickball,” she said, “and you paint a picture of Jesus as a friend. You teach the children what their identity is in Christ.”

SPRING 2012 | 17

Medenblik keeps track of placement statistics based on numbers reported by those graduates who responded to an inquiry conducted six months after graduation. The survey of 2011 May graduates concluded with the following statistics: 86 percent employed; 83 percent employed in their career area; and 15 percent attending graduate school. The majority of students continuing on to graduate school planned to pursue degrees in the areas of science. Top employers of the Class of 2011 include local hospitals and various elementary schools.

THE COOPER CAREER AND COUNSELING CENTER REPORT ON JOB PLACEMENT STATISTICS With the state of the economy, the question on the minds of college graduates across the county is: Will I get a job? Trinity’s Cooper Career and Counseling Center—which has enjoyed increased traffic since the renovation of the Molenhouse Student Center space—offers students a variety of services to prepare for their future careers, from résumé writing guidance to networking events planned in partnership with the alumni office. Job placement numbers of May 2011 Trinity graduates are positive, said Jackie Medenblik ’82, director of the center.

May 2011 graduate Danae Lyzenga, a nursing major, worked as a care tech on the rehab floor at Adventist Hinsdale Hospital while attending Trinity. After passing her boards, she was offered a nursing position on the same floor. “The Cooper Center was extremely helpful in providing me with a good resume format to use, and the professors were great with writing recommendation letters,” said Lyzenga. “I have my dream job as a nurse, and I am very grateful for my education from Trinity.”

STUDENT ACTIVITIES COLLEGE LIFE OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

(l-r) Lindsay Slager ’13, Allison Voss ’12, Hannah Snow ’13, Hannah Gonzales ’12

Enhancing Facilities THE REDESIGN OF THE MOLENHOUSE STUDENT CENTER


College life is as much about growing as a person as it is growing in knowledge. To engage students in the Trinity community, Student Activities, led by President Lindsay Slager ’13, plans events throughout the academic year. Students dress up for the annual Spring Formal and don skates and costumes for the fall Trollerskating party. The Amazing Race takes students on a scavenger hunt through downtown Chicago while events like Trollstock, the annual talent show, are favorite on-campus activities.

Slager, who is in her first semester as president, has focused on planning more weekend activities.

Slager understands the benefits of being involved. Not only does she work to plan activities for all students, but she takes part in

many aspects of campus life, including intramural sports, spring break service trips, the Honors Program, and work study in the College’s Development office. “Commitment is important to me,” said Slager of her role to serve her fellow students. The leadership position has also provided her with skills that will be useful in the future classroom of this elementary and special education major. She said her focus next semester will be on her student teaching. Her goal is to teach third or fourth grade at a public school, much like the ones she attended all her life as an Oak Forest, Illinois, resident. “I hope to be a strong Christian presence,” she said.

STAINED GLASS REFLECTS BIBLICAL DRAMA

Students gaze up at the artist’s stained glass representation of Redemption as Dr. Aron Reppmann ’92, professor of philosophy, asks his class, “What do you see?” The students ponder the stained glass panels throughout the Ozinga Chapel, part of an on-campus “field trip” Reppmann is leading. They continue through the facility, discussing the biblical metanarrative of creation, fall, redemption, and new creation represented by the series of four stained glass window compositions. The panels, which hang in the large windows at different locations in the building, were designed by artist Paul Damkoehler of Oak

“What do you see?”

Park, Illinois, and installed over a 10-year period. In the Creation panels, one student notes the red ribbon with the Bible verse from Genesis 1 that threads its way through the swirling hues of blue. They notice as the tour continues that the same strand of red threads its way throughout all the stained glass panels, and Reppmann explains how it illustrates the verse from Colossians 1:17 in the Creation Redeemed panels: “He is before all things, and in Christ all things hold together.” Professor Reppmann integrated what he calls this “unique cultural expression on Trinity’s campus” into his classes to help students apply a “concept of central, enduring value for a Christian world view” to their everyday world-viewing.

The presentation accompanied the assigned reading of Albert Wolters’ Creation Regained. Reflecting on the reading, 104 students wrote essays analyzing the stained glass series in relation to Wolters’ concepts of structure and direction. Brianna Niemoth ’14 of Alsip, Illinois, stated that although the idea of structure and direction can be difficult to grasp, a visual representation, such as the Chapel windows, helps clarify the concepts. “[In the] stained glass windows,” Niemoth writes in her essay, “one can see how they follow the idea of creation, fall, redemption, and re-creation. They show us God’s structure being put into use, first in the wrong direction, but eventually led into the right direction through God’s redeeming work.”

SPRING 2012 | 19

Craig Kallemeyn ’13, phone program coordinator


The Students Behind the Trinity Fund Who is on the other end of the line?Every week, about 23 students make phone calls to alumni, parents, grandparents, and other friends of the College. The students are part of Trinity’s phone program and help raise money for the Trinity Fund.

What have you learned from taking part in the phone program?

Craig Kallemeyn ’13 of Crete, Illinois, program coordinator: “I’ve taken management classes before, but nothing can teach you like real experience. Through the program, I’ve learned the importance of working as a team, motivating others, and making decisions. I’ll be equipped with management skills that will benefit me for the rest of my career.”

What is your focus when you are calling?

Jacquelyn Iwema ’13 of Lombard, Illinois: “When we call people, we are not only focusing on asking for money, because we value everyone. Building relationships with people not only helps the callers, but it helps people that are a part of Trinity to keep the College in their lives.”

How do you connect with donors?

Molly Gobeli ’15 of Milwaukee, Wisconsin: “Connecting with donors has a lot to do with asking them questions. When I ask them about their experiences at Trinity, it often leads to a story or two about their college years. We take prayer requests, and we pray for each request as a group. It’s a really great opportunity to bring encouragement to people.”

Funding the Priceless Student ExperienceAn important conduit by which donors can play an integral role in preparing young Christians to answer the callings God has placed on their hearts is the Trinity Fund. The fund is supported in a variety of ways, including the phone program’s Spring Drive and Fall Drive. Some of the amazing students who make those phone calls share that experience.

Does it give you a different perspective of Trinity having been

part of the fund raising process? Jacquelyn: “It does. I realize how much an institution like this needs support, especially since it is a private college. I also appreciate those who are still a part of Trinity because of their donations, which are a huge blessing.”

What has the program taught you about Trinity?

Chadd Huizenga ’15 of Highland, Indiana: “I love getting advice from other people who had the same major as I do and asking them for pointers. When you think of Trinity, you think of all the friends you made on campus. The Trinity experience doesn’t stop when you leave. There are people from all over the world who are out there to help support Trinity students. It’s a global family.”

In 1618-19, delegates from the Netherlands and eight other countries met over a period of several months in the great Synod of Dort and produced the Canons of Dort. These

statements of doctrine adopted by the synod addressed the Arminian controversy in the Dutch churches. The year 2018 will mark the 400th anniversary of that significant time in Reformed church history and the completion of a significant project, led in part by Dr. Donald Sinnema, professor of theology at Trinity. “The Canons of Dort is one of the foundational documents of our religious perspective,” said Sinnema, an internationally recognized scholar on the canons. He serves as one of three general editors overseeing scholars from around the world on the six-year international project to publish a critical edition of all the existing documents of the synod into one multi-volume series, with an anticipated publishing date of 2018. A number of scholars, including Trinity Professor of Theology Yudha Thianto, Ph.D., have been recruited to edit individual documents. Sinnema has spent decades studying the synod, including original documents hidden away in archives throughout Europe, often for hundreds of years. Reminiscent of some kind of Reformed archaeologist, the professor discovered 20 lost-to-the-world manuscript volumes last summer in a library in Zurich, where the first organizational meeting for the project was being held. A summer research grant from Trinity enabled the professor to draw up an inventory of the available documents, most in Latin.

DR. SHERRY BARNES RETIRES

Communication arts is a practical discipline. Our ability to communicate well is a key factor to success in any aspect of life, whether personal,

professional, or social. It is a skill that everyone can learn to use proficiently.” This is the philosophy on which Dr. Sherry Barnes, professor of communication arts, has based her teaching as a Trinity faculty member since 2001.

May will mark Barnes’ retirement and her emerita status at the College. Looking back on her years at Trinity, she said one of the most fulfilling aspects of teaching was hearing about students’ rich faith traditions and faith journeys alongside family.

“I graded their assignments with a grateful heart and with renewed understanding of the power of small, everyday lessons—most of them learned by observation and imitation.” Barnes graduated from Oklahoma Christian College with a degree in speech and theatre. She earned her master’s degree in speech and

advertising communication from the University of Tennessee and her doctorate in human resource development from the University of Nebraska. She also served as vice president of the local American Society of Training and Development chapter. Her interest in intercultural communication started in college, but her passion for it grew during her time at Trinity. Faculty development opportunities overseas were tied to the use of the Intercultural Development Inventory in her Intercultural Communication classes and a five-year research project on the development of intercultural sensitivity. Her academic and corporate expertise has been invaluable in her work with students in Trinity’s traditional and Adult Studies programs. “A learning community like Trinity is a place to facilitate creative thinking strategies both in and outside the classroom,” said Barnes. “As I look back on 10 years of graduates, I can see Trinity students as change agents for the businesses, schools, churches, and communities they join.”

PROFESSOR SERVES AS

AMERICAN EDITOR FOR

INTERNATIONAL PROJECT

“

The project is funded by the Johannes a Lasco Bibliothek, in Emden, Germany, along with other research institutions, and is directed by Herman Selderhuis, historian and curator at the library. The third editor is Christian Moser, a Swiss scholar. Sinnema has taught theology at Trinity since 1987, and his understanding of and support for Reformed Christian higher education permeate his scholarship. He will retire in May from Trinity and will be honored with emeritus status at the 2012 Commencement ceremony for traditional graduates.

P EO P L E

...REMINISCENT OF SOME KIND OF REFORMED ARCHAEOLOGIST...

SPRING 2012 | 21

TEACHER’S EXPERIMENT HEADS TO SPACE

In April, Sara Timmer ’86 began conducting a unique experiment. She and her students at Highland Christian

School, Highland, Indiana, are germinating soybean seeds in the classroom while other soybeans are germinating way outside of the classroom…namely outer space. Timmer graduated from Trinity with a degree in biology and chemistry and returned to the College to earn her teaching certification in 2009 through the Adult Studies Accelerated Program. With her guidance, Timmer’s students wrote a proposal for the experiment to be conducted in space on the International Space Station (ISS). For the proposal, she and students in Highland’s junior high science club sought help from Dr. Lou Sytsma ’65, professor of chemistry at Trinity. Sytsma helped to answer questions they had while they wrote their paper titled, “The

Effect of Microgravity on the Quality and Nutritional Value of the Seed Sprout of a Germinated 92M72 Genetically-Modified Soybean.” The microgravity experiment was selected as part of Mission 1 to the ISS, the third flight opportunity provided by America’s Student Spaceflight Experiments Program (SSEP).

“This was an exciting opportunity to work with the students on current experimentation going on in the science community,” said Timmer. She said that through the project, students celebrated the joy of learning and the excitement of this unusual scientific opportunity. The seeds will be flying in a

microgravity research mini-laboratory in low Earth orbit. The aim is to see if food can be grown in other environments.

When the seeds return to Earth from space, the students will come to Trinity and work with Dr. Bob Boomsma, professor of biology at Trinity, to compare the seed from space and the one germinating on earth. Participation in these experiments shows a broader commitment to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. SSEP typically gives 300 to 1,000 students across a community the ability to design and propose real experiments to fly in low Earth orbit, first aboard the final flights of the space shuttle, and then on the ISS.

The SSEP (http://ssep.ncesse.org) is undertaken by the National Center for Earth and Space Science Education (NCESSE; http://ncesse.org) in partnership with NanoRacks, LLC. This on-orbit educational research opportunity is enabled through NanoRacks, LLC, which is working in partnership with NASA under a Space Act Agreement as part of the utilization of the International Space Station as a National Laboratory.

A D U LT ST U D I E S

Dr. David Brodnax,associate professor of history, presented “Black Suffrage in Postwar Iowa.” Association for the Study of African American Life and History, Raleigh, Virginia. October 2011.

Dr. Michael DeVries,professor of psychology, presented “Inhabiting Buber’s Thought in Psychotherapy.” Seattle University Annual Conference on Psychology for the Other, Seattle, Washington. October 2011.

PA P E R S & P R E S E N TAT I O N SDr. Karen Dieleman,assistant professor of English, presented “Remember, Not Revere: Elizabeth Barrett’s Account of the Greek Christian Poets.” North American Victorian Studies Association, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee. November 2011.

Dr. Derrick Hassert,professor of psychology, published “Between Mind and Brain: Final and Efficient Causation in Relation to Neuroplasticity,” Ethical Human Psychology and

Psychiatry, 13 (3), 194-208. Review of Principles of Neurotheology by Andrew Newberg, Themelios, 36.3 (2011).

Dr. David Klanderman, professor of mathematics, with J. Barrett, D. Clements, C. Cullen, A. Miller, C. Rumsey, and J. Sarama published “Children’s Unit Concepts in Measurement: A Teaching Experiment Spanning Grades 2 Through 5.” in The International Journal on Mathematics Education. 637-650.

Dr. Aaron Kuecker,associate professor of theology, presented “Response to Bruce Longenecker on Paul, Poverty, and Community.” North Park


Each semester, Adult Studies Education alumni are invited to present feedback and tips to current students who are beginning their semester of student teaching. During a recent

panel presentation, alumni shared observations with students that will be helpful as these future teachers prepare to enter the classroom.

Richard Piwowarski ’08 teaches Spanish at Marist High School, and he has also been the coordinator of school accreditation for the past year and a half. Recently, he assumed the task of reviewing applications for open teaching positions. His advice to job seekers is to stand out in their cover letter, to show how they can be an asset to the school to which they’re applying, and to explain what they can bring to the position that helps achieve the school’s mission. In all, he says to “put yourself in God’s will and trust the process and his plan.”

The advice of Jennifer Canan ’10 is to be flexible. She teaches high school students online at K-12, Inc. Her students include those who need to retake a course to earn necessary credit, those whose brick-and-mortar school does not offer the class they need, and a small percentage of homeschoolers.

“When I graduated, I was looking for a traditional teaching position and hadn’t thought about teaching online, but after a year and a half, I wouldn’t make a change.”

ADULT STUDIES GRADUATES SHARE TIPS WITH FUTURE TEACHERS

Phone-a-thon Raises Funds for Adult Studies Scholarship

Adult Studies faculty, staff, and alumni will be conducting a phone-a-thon the week of May 21-25 to raise money for an Adult Studies scholarship. Alumni are welcome to volunteer for the phone-a-thon. If interested, contact Dr. Lori Scrementi ’00, dean of Adult Studies, at 708.239.4842.

In addition to these graduates who participated in the alumni panels, others have stayed connected to Trinity to give updates and advice.

Nicolette Uresti ’09 said that volunteering is essential. “It’s important to get into schools and network,” said the Tinley Park District 146 ESL/bilingual teacher. Uresti began her career as an ESL teacher in Plainfield District 202, where she performed all of her bilingual ESL clinical hours and volunteered often. Alumni who would like to participate in a future alumni panel or who would like to update the Adult Studies department on current teaching positions, please call 708.239.4768.

Symposium on the Theological Interpretation of Scripture, Chicago, Illinois. September 2011.

Dr. Rose Malinowski,professor of social work, with social work majors Rachel Grobacik ’13, Keli Ooms ’12, and Hannah Ruckman ’12 presented “How Do Social Work Ethical Principles Challenge

Students’ Growth as Leaders?” National Association of Social Workers Illinois Statewide Conference: “A Meeting of the Profession,” Oak Brook, Illinois. November 2011.

Dr. Sharon Robbert,professor of mathematics, with Trina Vallone presented “Providing Scaffolds: What Can a Small Liberal Arts College Do to Meet the Needs of First Generation and Low Income Students?” Council for Independent Colleges, Collegiate Learning Assessment Pathways Consortium Summer Meeting, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. August 2011.

Dr. Erick Sierra,assistant professor of English, presented “SMART Board for the 21st-Century Classroom.” Teacher’s College of Columbia University (Peace Corps Fellows Program). New York, New York.

Dr. Yudha Thianto,professor of theology, presented “Proclamation, Polemics and Propaganda: The Role of Printed Sermons in the Establishment of Reformed Churches in the East Indies in the Seventeenth Century.” Sixteenth Century Studies Conference, Fort Worth, Texas. October 27-30, 2011.

Dr. Deborah Windes,assistant professor of business, with Faye Lesht presented “Faculty Teaching Online: What Are We Learning?” University Professional and Continuing Education Association Central Region Conference, Clayton, Missouri. October 2011.

SPRING 2012 | 23

BENEFACTORS CIRCLEThe College honors these friends whose combined gifts to the Trinity Fund reached $5,000 or more in the fiscal year 2010-2011. For more information, please contact Larryl Humme, vice president for development, at 708.239.3977, or e-mail [email protected].

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE — Membership as of June 30, 2011

The President’s Circle is an opportunity to provide leadership in support of excellent Christian higher education at Trinity Christian College. Members of the President’s Circle pray for Trinity students, staff, trustees, alumni, and friends; promote the College in the community, church, and workplace; provide a yearly gift of $1,000 to the Trinity Fund; and propose membership in the President’s Circle to friends who value Trinity’s mission. If you are interested in becoming a member of the President’s Circle, please contact Larryl Humme, vice president for development, at 708.239.3977, or e-mail [email protected].

The College wishes to acknowledge these donors, some of whom have passed on to their heavenly home, whose gifts were received for the Trinity Fund between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.

Anonymous (2)Associated Colleges of IllinoisC. Jay & Dorothy BuikemaRobert & Danette BuikemaChristian Evangelical FoundationRon & Mary Lynn ColosimoSandra CooperHoward & Verna De HaanGeorge A. De JongLarry & Rosemary De Vries

Henry & Karen DoornThe Edgar and Elsa Prince FoundationHomewood Disposal Service, Inc.Thomas & June HuinerThe Huizenga FoundationMarian HuizengaMilton & Carol KuyersJames & Joyce LagesteeA. Glenn & Lorraine LemmenesPeter & Yvette Madany

Beverly OzingaGregg & Sharon RobbertLuke & Pauline SchaapSET Environmental, Inc.Ira & Evelyn SlagterWilliam & Judith TerpstraThomas & Gertrude Tibstra Charitable FoundationTrinity Christian College Women’s GuildTerry & Linda Van Der Aa

Van Drunen FarmsBeverly VanDykenJoyce VanKleyBernice VermeerWalt’s Food CenterThe Weidenaar Family

Anonymous (10)James & Arlene AchterhofAJ & Florence AnglinLance & Nancy BanningaDerk & Cheryl BergsmaDerke & Doris BergsmaJohn & Margery BernbaumBrian & Mariellen BoomsmaKen & Denise BootsmaKen & Margie BossMichael & Kathi BrueggemannBernard & Dorothy BruiniusKeith & Bev BruxvoortRobert & Danette BuikemaRon & Mary Lynn ColosimoSandra CooperJack & Nancy DavidsTed & Marilyn DavidsWilliam & Debra DavidsJack & Jennifer De BoerEugene & Beth DeckerPhillip & Dianne De GrootRoger & Joyce De GrootHoward & Verna De HaanGeorge A De JongRichard & Patricia De JongFrank & Esther De VosLarry & Rosemary De VriesMichael & Louella DeVriesAnthony & Jeane DiekemaAlbert & Janyce Diepstra

Henry & Karen DoornJudy DootOliver & Candace DornDonald DykstraRichard & Marion DykstraJim & Carol EvenhousePatricia GabrielseChuck & Julie GeenenPete & Linda HamstraDennis & Brenda HarmsTim HoeksemaDennis & Jeni HoekstraFred & Barbara HoekstraKenneth & Gwendolyn HovingThomas & June HuinerPeter & Heidi HuizengaDavid & Barbara HuyserHenry IpemaCharles & Pam JongertEarl & Harriet KallemeynHenry & Grace KampLawrence & Virginia KerkstraHerman & Jean KokJohn & Marge KuyersMilton & Carol KuyersHyoung & Hee Ja LeeA. Glenn & Lorraine LemmenesFloyd & Laureen LeoRobert & Rose MannesKenneth & Marcia MelsCharlotte Mitchell

Richard & Wilma MolenhouseAaron & Amanda OzingaBeverly OzingaGrace OzingaHilda OzingaMartin Ozinga IIIRichard & Judy OzingaRichard & Patricia PowellMark Pridgeon & Mackenzi HuyserGregg & Sharon RobbertBurton & Phyllis RozemaGeorge SchaafJohanna SchaapLuke & Pauline SchaapPaul & Lori SchaapKurt SchemperHarry & Grace SchipperRichard & Linda SchuttIra & Evelyn SlagterGary & Jayne SmitCatherine SolleRonald & Shirley StavingaJack & Amy StrongJohn & Elaine StrooLouis Sytsma & Georgia LubbenEdward & Shirley TalenWilliam & Judith TerpstraWilliam TerpstraZachary & Lisa ThomsonKenneth & Diana TimmermanSteven & Barbara Timmermans

Julie TinklenbergGeorge & Mary Van DahmTerry & Linda Van Der AaHoward & Betty Vander MeerDelores Vander WagenKenneth & Cynthia Vander WalLoren & Cornelia Vander WiltEdward & Linda Vander WoudeElmer & Georgian Van DrunenAndy & Elgene Van DykBeverly VanDykenRick & Sue Van DykenGerard & Harriet Van GroningenRichard & Esther Van HattemJohn & Sue Van LatenJohn & Shirley Van SchepenJoyce Van TillGordon & Margaret Van WylenWayne & Barbara VriesmanThe Weidenaar FamilyWilliam & Suzanne WeidenaarGordon & Jackie WerkemaSteven & Kathleen WestraDouglas & Lucille WierdaJohn & Beverly WigboldyRichard & Marilyn WiltjerRobert & Theresa WiltjerJohn & Ann WindJohn & Joan Wories

D E V E LO P M E N T


For a complete audited financial statement, please contact Jim Belstra, vice president for business and finance, at 708.239.4720 or [email protected]. We have worked diligently to produce an accurate report; however, in reports like this, an occasional error may occur. If your name has been misspelled, listed incorrectly, or omitted entirely, please accept our apologies. We hope you will contact us with correct information. The development staff will be happy to answer any questions about this report. Please call Karen Slager at 708.239.4806.

GIFTS SEPTEMBER 30, 2011 – MARCH 31, 2012

MEMORIAL GIFTS

Beulah AardsmaHenrietta Vander Velde

Henrietta “Tootie” Drenth Grace Ozinga John & Agnes Rosier

Al Friesema John & Sandra Lindemulder

Alyce Greenfield Mitch & Terri Greenfield

Tom KrygsheldDonald & Carol HaanAnna Mae KrygsheldMark & Carisa KrygsheldStony Tire, Inc.

Dorothy Ligler Roger & Joyce De Groot

Stephen P. Mitchell Lance & Nancy Banninga

HONOR GIFTSThe Marriage of Char Haan & George Mullen Phyllis Friesema

The 95th Birthday of Grace OzingaGeorge & Beverly De VriesChuck & Shirley Vander Velde

Joshua SchumannNancy Knutson

The 60th Anniversary of Earl & Helene Talen Edward & Sylvia Rudenga

WILLS & ESTATES Estate of Bernard & Henrietta DrenthEstate of John & Phyllis GrootEstate of Caroline Vander Weele

FOUNDERS CIRCLEThe Founders Circle is a giving opportunity created to broaden the number of participants who contribute annually to the Trinity Fund. The College seeks to recognize alumni and friends who support the Trinity Fund at levels between $500 and $999. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Founders Circle, please contact Larryl Humme, vice president for development, at 708.239.3977, or e-mail [email protected].

Anonymous (3)John & Tammy DeVriesKenneth & Nancy De YoungGordon & Sandy GeerdesRichard & Patricia Leppink

John & Pauline MeekmaMark & Kelly NetjesGlenn & Sharlotte SmitsJames & Laurie TeggelaarTony & Lynn Ten Kate

Dan & Deborah Van ProoyenRichard & Joan VieDonald & Kay Woo

The 2011 President’s Report, including the full report of income and expenses for the fiscal year, a 2011 Year-in- Review photogallery, and the lists of faithful supporters, can be viewed online at www.trnty.edu/presidentsreport.

SPRING 2012 | 25

GOLF PROGRAM ON COURSE

2011-12 Golf Team (l-r) Coach Dennis Harms,Tim Hoeksema, Brian Deckinga, Dan Carter, Neil Krooswyk, Noah Reardanz, Matt Lovelace, David Schurman, Brett Soodsma, Trevor Schaap, (not pictured, Logan Vos)

AT H L E T I C S

In the fall of 2011, intercollegiate varsity golf competition made its return to Trinity’s athletics program. In August, a team of 10 student-athletes under the direction of head

coach Dennis Harms ’89 began the new golf season. The golf schedule is divided into fall and spring competition. In the fall, the team participated in six matches. For each of the competitions, five golfers competed with their scores determining individual as well as the final team standings. A part of each week’s practice time would include playoff rounds to determine who would represent the team for the upcoming match. Rising to the top as consistent competitors were Matt Lovelace ’13 of Countryside, Illinois; Noah Reardanz ’12 of Manteno, Illinois; and Logan Vos ’15 of Ripon, California. “We are blessed to be able to partner with Calumet Country Club as our home course for practice,” said Harms. “We are very thankful for the good relationship we have with Calumet and for the services they have provided for our program.” Starting in late March, the spring schedule contained another four regular season matches and ended with the conference championship on April 23-24. “The fall competition was good for us, and overall it was a positive start for our program,” said Harms. “Based on our performance, we are ranked 4th of the nine conference teams heading into the spring schedule.” Trinity began their spring practices at the World Wood Golf Club in Florida during the College’s spring break week. While in Florida they also volunteered at the NCCAA Pro-Am, an event that helps to raise money for the organization and its sport ministry opportunities. The Trinity team members conducted a youth clinic for community children and assisted on the course during the golf competition.

She may be a freshman, but Anna Bos ’15 of Rockford, Michigan, has already made an impact as a

quality distance runner at Trinity. In her first year, she has become an NAIA national qualifier in both cross country and indoor track and set school records. Bos enjoys distance running and has been doing it since middle school. She also competed in high school, but an injury in her junior year deterred her. “When I thought that colleges had lost interest in me as a runner, Coach

Bob Brickman contacted me and introduced me to Trinity,” said Bos. “The thing that really made a difference was that he showed interest in me as a person and not just as a time or number for the program.” “Anna has a natural talent for running,” said Brickman ’03, head cross country and track coach. “Despite the injury that limited her impact in her last two years of high school, we knew she had the potential to be good. What we did not know was at what level she could return to. This year she proved that she has the ability and drive as she runs hard in every race and goes until she cannot give any more.” That effort was evident in the recent indoor track and field season in which Bos achieved NAIA national qualifying standards individually in the 3000 and 5000 meter runs and as a member of the distance medley relay team. At the NAIA Indoor Track and Field Championships on March 3, she became Trinity’s first-ever track All-American when she finished in 8th place in the 3000 meter with a school record time of 10:26.69. At that national event, she also ran the 1600 meter anchor leg of the distance medley relay that set the school record with a time of 12:35.70. The other members of that team were Hannah Schaap ’13 of Mahomet, Illinois; Keishera Smith ’13 of Chicago; and Kirsten Harms ’14 of Tinley Park, Illinois. In addition, Bos made school history during the cross country season when she became the highest-ever place finisher for Trinity at a NAIA national meet. At the NAIA Cross Country National Championships, she took 35th place overall of 323 runners with a time of 18:38 in the 5K race. Early in the season, she set the school record for that race at 18:15.89. While Bos is making a name for herself at Trinity and in the records books, she recognizes that competing is more than final results. “I enjoy running and competing, but also the fun and camaraderie of the teams,” Bos said. “I have found that the friendships formed are not just because of a common interest, but go beyond the race.”

ANNA BOS MAKES AN IMPACT


G O T RO L L S !

Amid the anticipation and excitement of the new indoor and outdoor athletics facilities, the athletics teams have also made some noise of their own. Utilizing the new

gymnasium and soccer field, a number of the teams have had highly successful seasons that ended in national tournament appearances. The women’s soccer team continues to be a national contender and, for the third time in four years, they advanced to the NAIA National Tournament. This season the Trolls, who finished 16-4-2 overall, earned their way into the tournament through an at-large bid as the No. 16 ranked team in the nation. In the opening round, they battled through a scoreless overtime game with Oklahoma City University before losing the decision in penalty kicks. The volleyball team made its second straight appearance at the NCCAA National Championship, where the team improved on last year’s Final Four appearance to finish as the national runner-up.

The Trolls advanced to the tournament after claiming the NCCAA region title. At the national event, they won all four of the matches in their pool, and then defeated Grace College (Indiana) in the semifinals before losing to California Baptist University in the championship match. The second place national finish capped off a great year that set a school record for most season wins with a record of 38-10.

Also in the fall, the cross country teams competed in the NCCAA National Championships in Cedarville, Ohio. In one of the largest-ever field of competitors at this event, the Trolls finished among the top as the men’s team took 5th place of the 30 teams, and the women were 6th among 25 teams. Individually Austin Warner ’12 of Dyer, Indiana, and Anna Bos ’15 of Rockford, Michigan, both earned All-American honors. Those two runners, along with Andy Reidsma ’14 of Wyoming, Michigan, also qualified for the NAIA National Cross Country Championships. The indoor track and field teams were represented by four female and four male athletes at the NAIA Indoor Championships. The women’s team competed in the distance medley relay, 3000 meter (Anna Bos ’15, Rockford, Michigan), and high jump (Kirsten Harms ’14, Tinley Park, Illinois), and the men were also in the distance medley and the mile (Andy Reidsma ’14, Wyoming, Michigan). The track teams also had 12 female and 18 male athletes compete in the NCCAA Indoor Championships and had eight athletes receive All-American honors in at least one event.

TROLLS ADVANCE TO POST-SEASON PLAY

TROLLNATION–RAMPING UP GAME FERVOR

TrollNation is a dedicated group of students, along with other Trinity community members, who have

become the “extra man” for many of the Trinity athletic teams. The boisterous presence of this group of fans gives the

Trolls a home court edge by providing support, creating excitement, and forming unity in the student body. “I love TrollNation,” said volleyball player Betsy Holman ’13 of Streamwood, Illinois. “When you are on the court and you see the students excited and into the game, it motivates you to want to play well for them.”

Teammate Kirsten Harms ’14 of Tinley Park, Illinois, said, “Volleyball is a game of momentum, and having fans standing up, screaming, and cheering us on, makes a difference and pumps me up.” TrollNation is mainly student run and headed up by student-leaders Hannah Gonzales ’12 of Visalia, California, and Caleb Copeland ’14 of Arlington Heights, Illinois, under the direction of Troy Schemper, coordinator of Student Activities. They actively publicize upcoming contests through posters, schedules, emails, and Facebook messages;

designate special nights, such as black-out games in which everyone is encouraged to wear TrollNation t-shirts; and generate excitement with half-time contests, give-aways, and drawings. In addition, they help organize Troll Madness at the start of the basketball seasons. “The purpose of TrollNation is to create excitement at games and to get the student body actively cheering for the teams,” said Gonzales. “We want students to have fun at games, to create a sense of community, and to show support for the teams.”

ANNA BOS MAKES AN IMPACT

SPRING 2012 | 27

A LU M N IGreetings,

One of the primary goals of the alumni office is to provide opportunities for Trinity alumni to connect with each other both socially and professionally. We host social and educational events on campus and around the country, as well as facilitate networking groups and gatherings. Social media has provided another great avenue for connecting through the Trinity alumni Facebook page and LinkedIn group.

We are also excited to announce the launch of the College’s first online alumni directory. You may recall the hardcover printed directories of previous years; this is a combination of that printed directory along with some additional features. If you are looking to connect with other alumni in your area or profession or to reconnect with an old friend, we hope this will serve as a great resource. This directory will give you the ability to update your information more easily and control how it is shared with other alumni. The directory also contains a central Trinity alumni events calendar, the capability to update e-mail preferences, and access to your giving history.

We encourage you to take a minute to sign up at http://connect.trnty.edu, and we continue to look for ways to help you stay connected with the Trinity community. Sincerely,

Travis Bandstra ’06 Director of Alumni Relations

- Reconnect with an old classmate

- Find Trinity alumni living in your area

- See the alumni events calendar

Over 10 percent of Trinity students are children of alumni, and the College wishes to thank alumni who have supported the efforts to increase that percentage by giving through the recent Alumni Scholarship Drive.

The spring drive, as of April 2012, has brought in $21,253 in gifts and pledges toward providing up to 16 renewable $1,500 awards to children of Trinity alumni.

Sophomore Brittany Homan, a music major from Englewood, Colorado, is thankful for the award. “Trinity’s community has opened so many doors for me after only two years of college,” said Homan. “Without the scholarships I’ve been given, I would be missing out on many opportunities preparing me for a great future.”

Alumni Scholarships are funded primarily through proceeds from the annual Alumni Golf Outing and individual gifts from alumni. “Despite the fact that I was the first generation of my family to attend Trinity, I know I won’t be the last,” said alumnus Kyle Geenen ’10. “Trinity provided me with a great education, and I owe it to future generations of alumni to help provide the same opportunity.” To support the Alumni Scholarship, please visit http://connect.trnty.edu/give.

TRANSFORMING A STUDENT’S TOMORROW

Jason Bruxvoort ’99 Orland Park, Illinois

Shawn DeVries ’07 Pella, Iowa

Brian Dykema ’93 Jenison, Michigan

Kyle Geenen ’10 Holland, Michigan

Tim Hurley ’00 Villa Park, Illinois

Ken Litscher ’02 Jackson, Tennessee President

Mike Macco ’04 De Pere, Wisconsin Yvette Madany ’85 Hopkinton, Massachusetts

Chad Meeuwse ’02 Modesto, California

Shannon Schans ’00 Maplewood, Minnesota Secretary

Leanne Schatz ’06 Phoenix, Arizona Joyce Schulting ’74 Richmond, Texas Vice President

Nadia Swearingen-Friesen ’89Orland Park, Illinois Deb Van Prooyen ’74Lombard, Illinois

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION 2011-12 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ALUMNI

For more information, contact the alumni office at [email protected] or 708.239.4854.

http://connect.trnty.edu

Online Alumni

Directory

New!


C L A S S N OT E STRINITY CHRISTIAN COLLEGE ALUMNI CLASS NOTES POLICY The Alumni Class Notes of Trinity Christian College are published in the TRINITY magazine and online to encourage Trinity alumni to share in each other’s lives. It is not intended to reflect the views of the College or to support a particular point of view. Trinity Christian College reserves the right to edit submissions for space, tone, and content that do not reflect Trinity’s mission as a community of Christian scholarship committed to shaping lives and transforming culture. As alumni, we are still a part of, and responsible to, this community and mission. Class Notes and photos can be mailed to Trinity at 6601 West College Drive, Palos Heights, Illinois, 60463 (attn: alumni office) or e-mailed to [email protected].

1960S

Vern ’62 Vander Zee I am enjoying traveling across our country with my wife as she does seminars related to her new book, Women Meet Jesus. Ruth has studied the stories behind the women in the Gospels whom Jesus met.

She explains how the women who met Jesus during his ministry years provide us with real-life models of authentic, fully-blessed, children-of-God living for today, and she explains further at www.journey-of-faith.com.

Trudy Van Slooten ’64Trudy has published her memoir of teaching in the inner-city classrooms of Robert Taylor Homes in Chicago. Her book, Honky in the Ghetto, is available on both Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook. It chronicles over 20 years of teaching in the most crime-ridden area of Chicago and her dealings with the Vice Lords and Gangster Disciple street gangs.

1970S

James Rusthoven ’71I would like to share a recent milestone that relates directly to my Trinity experience some 42 years ago. When I was at Trinity, professors Cal Seerveld, Peter Steen, Maartin Vrieze, C. T. McIntire, Arie Leegwater, Harry Cook, and others taught the importance of learning to critically assess the spirits of our age in order to develop a biblical understanding of the vocation to which we were to be called. In my case, medical practice, teaching, and clinical research became my calling. After 20 years of such work, I downscaled to a part-time practice and developed expertise in biomedical ethics. Having completed a MHSc degree in bioethics in 2004, I recently successfully defended my Ph.D. in theology from Trinity College, University of Bristol, in the UK. My dissertation work involved a foundational critique of the current bioethical paradigm, known as principles-based ethics, and the early development of a covenantal ethical framework for understanding medicine, based on a biblical understanding of the covenant theme. I have also begun to merge this ethical

framework with a Christian philosophical understanding of medical practice and research. I would like to thank those mentioned above for their early instruction and inspiration that formed the basis of my vision for renewing the sciences in light of God’s Word.

Arnie ’72 and Barb StolteMy wife and I are celebrating the birth of our 21st grandchild.

Eduardo Echeverria ’73Since 2003, I have been professor of philosophy and theology in the Graduate School of Theology at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, located in Detroit, Michigan. I am the author, most recently, of Dialogue of Love: Confessions of an Evangelical Catholic Ecumenist (Wipf & Stock, 2010), as well as “In the Beginning. . .” A Theology of the Body (Pickwick Publications, 2011).

John Koedyker ’73John is the stated clerk and coordinator of Muskegon Classis, Reformed Church in America (RCA). He is also pastor of Word of Hope Church, RCA, in Fruitport, Michigan.

1980S

Paul Dillman ’80After being with Arthur Andersen for over 20 years, Paul started his own firm in 2002. The Lord has blessed P&L Accounting and Tax Service with great clients and employees. One of the best things is that P&L has been able to hire junior and senior accounting students during tax season and has been able to give them practical experience. The students have been a great blessing to us, and we hope P&L to them. Thank you, Dr. White, for the great students!

1990S

Kathy Nimmer ’91Kathy will be a featured author at the Chippewa Valley Book Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, in October. Speaking about being a blind teacher and about her book, Two Plus Four Equals One, Kathy and her guide dog Elias would love to meet up with any alumni living in that part of the country during her time at the festival.

Contact her at [email protected] if you are from that region and would like to connect.

Brian ’93 and Holli ’96 DykemaBrian and Holli have been blessed with the birth of their daughter, Rachel Marissa.

She was welcomed home by her brothers and sisters, Paul, Abigail, Aaron, Leah, Seth, and Luke.

Dean Ridder ’93I graduated with a degree in business administration and worked in the accounting field for a large company. As I continued to do my “job,” however, I became increasingly dissatisfied. It was at Trinity that I learned that everything I did COULD be done for God’s glory. I remembered that every one of my professors brought the Reformed worldview into every subject. Through a number of avenues, I began to realize the deep love that I had for Christian education. When I began teaching at a Christian school, I knew immediately that I had found my life’s work. I taught mathematics to junior high students at a Christian school, which was a natural fit for my accounting background, and over time found clear ways that math shows us more about God. I later got my master’s degree in education administration. I served as an assistant principal for six years at a Christian school and have now been a principal for six years. I serve as the administrator of Isaac Newton Christian Academy in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. One of the continued pleasures of my job is helping teachers to integrate the Word of God into “every lesson, in every classroom, every day,” as we say at our school. My education at Trinity has benefitted me immensely, and it continues to be a part of my vocation.

Tim ’96 and Linda ’99 HendricksonThomas, our second child, was born last June 15. He is naughty. I am now a Ph.D. candidate (British and American literature) at Northern Illinois University.

SPRING 2012 | 29

Andrew Elliott Rusticus – In MemoryJune 20, 1982 – February 25, 2012

In February, the Trinity community mourned the loss of alumnus Andrew Elliott Rusticus. Rusticus died of an apparent heart attack on Saturday, February 25, leaving behind his wife Michelle and his daughters, three-year-old Baylee Noel and three-month-old Libby Grace. Rusticus was jogging as part of a training regimen with the department when he collapsed on the road near his home. He was 29. He is also survived by his parents, Roland and Mary; brothers, Jeremy and Lisa (Evan, Ayana), Alex and Emily; parents-in-law, Tom and Carlene Cooke; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Jenn and Brent (Grady, Anna, Tate, Millie) Mingerink, Stephanie and Brad (Addison, Mckayla) Sterk, Heather and Dan DeBoer, Misha and Tanya; numerous grandparents, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends and relatives. Rusticus was a 2005 graduate of Trinity who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and psychology. He was honored with the Sociology Department’s Award in 2005 and qualified for the Dean’s List. While at Trinity, Rusticus interned for the Chicago Police Department, and after his graduation, he was hired as a police officer in Woodridge, Illinois. Rusticus applied his faith to every aspect of his job—in his style of work, in his attitude, and in his Christian interaction with others. He is remembered fondly by Dr. Brad Breems, professor of sociology. “Andy was one of the finest students I ever had; a humble and caring Christian, studious, compassionate, and careful, with a deep Reformed current always running through his analysis. All who knew Andy, including me, will miss this simply outstanding young man.” During the three and a half years Rusticus served with the Village of Woodridge Police Department, he was awarded for valor for arresting a suspect who shot at officers; given a lifesaving award for performing CPR on an infant; and received two commendation awards for professional responses to criminal incidents. Rusticus joined the Grand Rapids Police Department in April 2009.

Alumni and friends who wish to give a gift to the family can visit

www.andyslittleangels.com or mail a check to

Thin Blue Line of Michigan, TBL/FBO Michelle Rusticus, P.O. Box 415, Howell, MI 48844-0415

Amy (Cook) Sherman ’96Amy and her husband Duane added Matthew Joel to the family on May 14, 2011. Matthew was welcomed by Hannah (5) and Josiah (3). Amy enjoys staying home with her kids and looks forward to welcoming foster children into their home beginning this summer.

Jon ’96 and Lisa ’99 (Rouwhorst) VugteveenThis past July, Cayden Tyler was born into our family. He was welcomed home by big brother, Austin, and big sister, Taylor. Jon is the dean of students and 8th grade history teacher at Trinity Christian School in Shorewood, Illinois, and Lisa is a stay-at-home mom.

Matt ’98 and Cindy ’97 (Huisenga) SchipmaWe are pleased to announce the births of Jack Donald and Celia Ann, born on July 4, 2011. Jack and Celia are welcomed (and adored) by older siblings Ella (8), Julia (8), Seth (7), and Levi (4).

Troy ’99 and Hillary ’98 (Cuperus) GrevengoedWe are blessed to announce our newest additions. Cole Joseph and Reese Olivia joined our family in July. Big sisters Logan, Delanie, Chase, and Quinn are so excited!

Timothy ’99 and Jennifer ’00 (Hamilton) Vande WerkenTimothy recently became a partner with Evenhouse & Co., P.C., Certified Public Accountants & Consultants for Business in Elmhurst, Illinois.

2000S

Kim (Vlietstra) De Block ’00Kim and Kevin were blessed with their third child on October 10, 2011. Kendall Margaret joins sister, Abby (5 ½) and brother, Nick (4). Kim is now a stay-at-home mom, and Kevin is owner of Precision Dent Repair, Inc. and De Block Builders, Inc.

Matt ’98 and Joanne ’01 (Keizer) Gritters Matt and I were blessed with another son! Emmett Phillip Gritters was born on November 1, 2011. Praise the Lord! His big brothers Matthew (5) and William (3) adore baby Emmett.

Dan ’01 and Mandie ’02 (Hudson) ParrishDan, Mandie, and big brother Malachi welcomed Elaina Louise Parrish to the family December 4, 2011. Elaina was 9 lbs., 3 oz. and was 21½ inches long. We are thankful to God for his good and perfect gifts of Malachi and Elaina to our family.

Emilie (Boverhof) Van Arendonk ’01I married Brian Van Arendonk on October 29, 2005, and we have three children. Evan was born in 2009, and Jameson and Jillian were born in 2011.

Ed Fialek ’02I have been teaching at District #111 in Burbank, Illinois. I continue to have fun teaching sixth graders over the years, primarily in science and reading. I have been blessed with many accolades for my science classes, including this past summer when I was one of 200 teachers selected worldwide to attend Space Camp. What an awesome experience! I am working with an after school science club this year, where we have created an energy

C L A S S N OT E S


Four families from the Class of 2006 had twins in 2011. Trinity rejoices with them!

Matthew and Jenni ’06 (Derks) Hoekstra Matthew and Jenni were blessed with their first two children, Taytum Joy and Micah Dale, on July 28, 2011.

Jordan ’06 and Jessica ’06 (Eenigenburg) HoekstraJordan and Jessica welcomed twin boys to the family on August 17,

2011. We feel extremely blessed to add Charles Henry and Louis Joseph to our growing family. Cally and Will love having two babies in the mix.

Glen ’06 and Cassie ’06 (Blom) SwansonGlen and Cassie welcomed Asher Rees and Kaelyn Hope into the world on October 18, 2011.

Drew ’06 and Melissa ’06 (Wynne) ThorwallDrew and Melissa were doubly blessed by the birth of twin boys, Axel Joshua

and Obed Elijah, born August 30, 2011. Big sister Belle is thrilled to have two new playmates.

conservation program. I continue to be involved in my home church, Sacred Heart. I am blessed with a large family, and I spend as much time as I can with my 13 grandchildren.

Charity Frasier ’02I am finishing my MBA from North Park University’s School of Business and Nonprofit Management. I also have been a trainer with CVS Caremark’s Specialty Pharmacy since November of 2009. I primarily train newly-hired employees on the process for verifying insurance benefits for highly expensive biotech medications designed to help patients on their paths to better health as they manage chronic or genetic conditions, such as hepatitis C, rheumatoid arthritis, various cancers, and cystic fibrosis. It is an incredibly rewarding job because I get to see every day the difference that I can make in someone’s life.

Melissa (Hohm) Gregson ’02Melissa and Tim welcomed their first child, Wilhelmina Nell, on December 4, 2011.

Kelly (Triezenberg) Netjes ’02Kelly and her husband, Mark, welcomed their second son, Liam Henry, into their family on November 11, 2011. They spend their days keeping him safe from the smothering hugs and kisses from older brother Gavin (3).

Erin Ducat ’03Dr. Erin Ducat, a board-certified chiropractic sports physician opened a new facility for Ducat Chiropractic & Sports Medicine with chiropractic, sports medicine, massage therapy, and medical acupuncture services in Bloomingdale, Illinois. Erin and her husband, Steve, were blessed with a son, Oliver Tate Ducat, who was born on May 29, 2011.

Doug ’03 and Kim ’03 Van WyngardenOn January 25, 2012, we welcomed our twins, Rowan Douglas and Norah Faith, into our family.

Kristin Berenschot ’04I graduated from Concordia University-Wisconsin with my master’s degree in reading in May 2011 and continue as an elementary special education teacher in Antioch, Illinois.

Anna Brinks ’04My husband, Jim, and I welcomed our first child, Chase Cannon, into our family on September 7, 2011.

Tony ’05 and Jen ’06 (Jansen) GabrielseDrew Wesley Gabrielse was born on October 30, 2011, to Tony and Jen.

Amanda (AJ) Haan ’05This past October, Chicago-based General Growth Properties promoted me to be the new marketing manager for RiverTown Crossings Mall in Grandville, Michigan. I’ve been with the company since an internship during my senior year at Trinity and formerly worked as the marketing communications analyst at their corporate office in downtown Chicago. [email protected]

Andrew ’05 and Michelle ’07 (Cooke) Rusticus Libby Grace Rusticus joined our family on November 10, 2011. She was welcomed home

by a very excited big sister, Baylee Noel. “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” James 1:17

Kevin Walker ’05Kevin and Tammy were married on January 21, 2012, in Tinley Park, Illinois. Kevin is assistant vice president at USI

insurance, and Tammy is a manager at her family’s restaurant, Buenas Nachos, in Frankfort. Tammy and Kevin live in Lockport, Illinois.

Ruthie Hoving ’06On September 29 we welcomed Tyler Case! Our new little bundle joins big brother Owen at home.

Angie Russell ’06I work as a production manager at Captions and Subtitle Services in Joliet, Illinois. I am also the author of Love of My Life: Memoirs of a Love Lost, currently being sold at Amazon.com as a Kindle ebook and in print.

Berenice (Mendez) Tenorio ’06I married Pedro Tenorio on September 10, 2011, and we have been happily married since.

John ’06 and Lori ’07 (Stephansen) WeidenaarJohn and Lori were married on July 16, 2011, in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Melissa Brouwer ’07My husband, Nathan, and I are the proud parents of triplet boys. Aiden James, Noah Henry, and Reese Edward were born on August 2, 2011.

SPRING 2012 | 31

C L A S S N OT E SJoel ’07 and Amy ’07 (Bosscher) De RuiterOn October 27, 2011, Joel and I welcomed our first child, Evan Jay DeRuiter, into the world. He was 9 lbs., 2 oz. and 22 inches long.

Jamie Fuller ’07After four years as a faculty member at Greenville College, I’ve decided to change my career path. I’ve enjoyed being a librarian, and working with the students at GC has been wonderful; the highlight being directing “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare” (abridged) [revised] for their theatre program in February 2012. Yet, it’s time to chase my passion by going after my second master’s degree. I’ve been accepted into the MFA in stage management program at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. I’m still in shock at the acceptance as they only take four students every two years. I will be starting the three-year program in August 2012 and am incredibly excited for this new direction my life is taking! Prayers would, as always, be appreciated.

Jesse ’07 and Katie ’05 (DeKoekkoek) VeenstraJesse and Katie welcomed Alyson Joanna in February of 2011. Jesse graduated from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in May 2011 and is now working as a large animal veterinarian in Ionia, Michigan.

Joanna VanderWoude ’07 Joanna is engaged to William Ross Hodges. The wedding is planned for June 8, 2012. They both attend Westminster Seminary California and will graduate

in May 2013 with a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies and a Master of Divinity, respectively. After graduation, they hope to pursue a call in the Presbyterian Church of America.

Lyla Ismael ’08Lyla graduated from Saint Xavier University with an MBA concentration in management in 2011.

David Marusarz ’08I now live in Indianapolis and work as an attorney with the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance.

Ashley (VanderWoude) van der Hoek ’08Ashley and Henry van der Hoek had a baby boy, Titus Roel, on February 25, 2012.

Amanda Keene ’09I recently returned from Quincy, Massachusetts, where I was working at a Salvation Army. I am working at the divisional headquarters of The Salvation Army in Chicago. In the fall, I’ll be attending seminary through The Salvation Army.

Alyssa (De Groot) Oliver ’09 I married Aaron Oliver in June 2010, and we welcomed our first child, Levi Philip, in June 2011. God is so good! I graduated in 2009 from

Trinity and now live in Visalia, California, where I teach social studies at Central Valley Christian High School.

2010S

Patrick Crall ’10I was hired as a full-time 4th and 5th grade science teacher with a 4th grade homeroom in August, 2011. I could not have achieved this goal without the Adult Studies program at Trinity. Thank you for creating this opportunity for me!

Annette Rounsaville ’10I began my new career as the resident adviser of a group home called The Harbour in March 2012. The Harbour, Inc. is a non-profit organization servicing neighborhood girls as they transition to independent living.

Alex Walsh ’10I have accepted a doctoral position in the department of communication studies at West Virginia University! I will complete my master’s degree at DePaul University in 2012 and should receive my Ph.D. in 2015. As a Mountaineer, I will continue to research communication behaviors in both educational settings and romantic relationships. God bless!

Alex Folami ’11I recently got a job as an emergency room nurse at Provena Mercy Medical Center in Aurora, Illinois. What an exciting experience for a Trinity graduate. I also applied to Lewis University for the beginning of graduate school in the spring of 2013 where I will study to become a family nurse practitioner focusing on emergency care.

Michelle (Bosi) Galan ’11In June, 2012, I will start the physician assistant program at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois.

Jonathan ’11 and Nicole ’09 (Billin) HuizingaJonathan married Nicole in Holland, Michigan, on October 22, 2011.

Hank Iwema ’11 and Trisha ’11 (Airth) IwemaHank and Trisha were united in marriage on December 31, 2011. The New Year’s Eve ceremony was celebrated

ALUMNI THEATRE PERFORMS IN AUGUST

The drama “An Enemy of the People” by Henrik Ipsen will be performed at 7:30 p.m., Friday, August 17; Saturday, August 18; Friday, August 24; and Saturday, August 25, in the Marg Kallemeyn Theatre with an encore performance Saturday, September 8. The play will be directed by Rosalia Portillo ’09. If anyone is interested in learning more or assisting with the performance, please contact Trinity Alumni Theatre at [email protected].

with family and friends in Countryside, Illinois. The couple now resides in Westchester, Illinois.

Valarie (Niewenhuis) Kuipers ’11Valarie married Ian Kuipers on June 25, 2011, in Corsica, South Dakota. We now are living in Holland, Michigan. Ian is a mechanical engineer at Innotec in Zeeland. Valarie is an R.N. at Pine Rest in Grand Rapids.

Greg ’11 and Joanna ’11 (Dykstra) MeyerGreg and Joanna were married on August 20, 2011, and are living in Lansing, Illinois. After graduating in May 2011,

Greg began working at Groot Industries with customer relations and operations. Joanna is the director of communications at a non-profit organization called Multiplication Network and has her own photography business. They are loving marriage and are excited about what God is doing in their lives.

Eric ’11 and Ashley ’11 (Veurink) SwansonEric and Ashley were married on January 7, 2012, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and now

live in Kansas City. Eric is a software engineer for Cerner Corporation, and Ashley works at BRR Architecture as a marketing coordinator.

Have you ever wanted to be involved in Trinity activities but live too far from campus to participate? Would you like to experience the Trinity community in your home region? Contact the alumni office at 708.239.4854 or [email protected] for more information.


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Spring 2012 Trinity Magazine