News

SMC Celebrates Constitution

Southwestern Michigan College observed Constitution Day dramatically, combining Heidi Schreck’s play, “What the Constitution Means to Me” with a spirited debate about whether the 239-year-old document should be kept or abolished. Constitution Day occurs on Sept. 17 because that is the date delegates signed the document at the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787.

SMC Adding Instrument Repair Certificate

At a special meeting Monday afternoon, the Southwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees approved the addition of a one-year musical instrument repair certificate to be offered beginning in Fall 2027.

Meet SMC’s New Athletic Trainer

Dylan Mondschein, Southwestern Michigan College’s new athletic trainer through Beacon Health System, grew up in Berrien Springs. In fact, he completed some dual-enrolled SMC classes in high school.

SMC May Grad Arly Fitzgerald Presents Research in New York

Southwestern Michigan College 2026 honors graduate Arly Fitzgerald represented SMC on a national academic stage in New York City Aug. 8.

SMC Welcomes New Technology Dean

Dr. Michael Hepner, Southwestern Michigan College’s new Dean of Advanced Technology and Industry Engagement, started Aug. 17.

SMC Trustees Award Six Employees, Welcome MCCA President to Campus

At its regular monthly meeting on Aug. 12, the Southwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees awarded six staff members with service pins. Athletic Director and Men’s Basketball Head Coach Rodell Davis received his five-year pin from Trustee Dr. Elaine Foster. Davis grew up in Chicago and played Division I basketball for Dr. Tom Davis at the University of Iowa, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

Maxwell’s Trades ‘Leap of Faith’ at SMC Pays Off

Five years after speaking at Southwestern Michigan College’s 2021 Commencement, Brenna Maxwell is a year and a half into her career as a controls engineer. “Being a controls engineer is very satisfying,” she said. “We come across many interesting challenges that force us to think outside the box for days or weeks. At the end of the day, once we solve that challenge and see our discoveries work as planned, we get a great feeling of accomplishment.”

Near-Fatal Crash Led Roadrunner Into Nursing

In 1968, when Gary L. Allan, DNP, CNP, PMHNP-BC, LMFT was 10 years old, he nearly died after being struck by a car. “I was hospitalized for 2½ months and had to undergo rehabilitation,” he said. “It was during that time I encountered nurses who were compassionate, genuinely caring and knowledgeable. I was supported and encouraged by the nursing staff.

Concert Caps Record SMC Choir Camp

Southwestern Michigan College’s ninth and largest choir camp culminated July 24 with a free public concert in the theatre of the Dale A. Lyons Building.

‘My Memories of SMC are Life-Changing’

Florida tour guide Chris Kelly came to Southwestern Michigan College in the fall of 1985 after taking a year off from college.