Communication Arts & Sciences (CAS) Alumni News Archive

Daniel Hoebeke (Communication A & S '72) is a tax lawyer and also the founder of Adopt-A-Chaplain. It all started when, at the request of a friend, he responded to an email from a chaplain in Afganistan who needed help with some spiritual struggles. With the help of his wife (Ellen Ackerman Hoebeke Communication A & S '73) and later his church, Dan's support of one chaplain has turned into a national network of churches supporting deployed chaplains and the troops in their care with prayer, letters of encouragement, and anything else that might help chaplains serve soldiers. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 51]

Nancy Bordewyk (Communication Arts & Sciences '73) has won the 2005 National Communication Association Marcella E. Oberle Award for Outstanding Teaching in Grades K-12. Current CAS department chair Helen Sterk nominated Nancy in recognition of her outstanding work at Grand Rapids Christian High School in drama and at the high school and state in forensics. [10/18/05]

Debra Marshall (Communication A & S/Business '85) has accepted the position of senior policy advisor for the minority staff of the U.S. House of Representatives Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 50]

Steve Baas (PolySci/CAS '86): Steve writes: "I'm the poster boy for liberal arts education, having worked in television (writing and producing for WLS-TV in Chicago), recreational vehicle sales (seriously), political campaigns (everything from county offices to running the Wisconsin media for G. Bush Sr. campaign in 1992), the state bureaucracy (Bureau Director for the WI Division of Housing), and now the legislature.

Currently, I'm the Communications Director for the Assembly Speaker. That simply means I'm responsible for all media relations, message development and implementation, speech writing, and political communication for Scott Jensen, Speaker of the Wisconsin Assembly. It's a great gig that requires a lot of writing a lot of speaking, a thick skin and a good sense of humor. The number one rule of thumb around here is, "If it's good news, the Speaker gets to talk to the press. If it's bad news, give them Baas." It's a fascinating job that is often frustrating but seldom dull.

Inertia has its benefits. I've now been in state government long enough that people actually believe I know something about it, and I get called out to do "media and politics" speeches and training seminars for public relations and new press flacks. In fact, last spring the American Bar Association flew me and former presidential candidate John Anderson (talk about an odd couple) to Kazakhstan to give a daylong seminar to their new democratically-elected parliament on how to deal with the media. Anderson's role was to discuss the value of public debates. My role was to convince the members of parliament that there was another way to deal with bad press other than have TV stations closed down and reporters beaten (which was actually pretty much the M.O. under the old Soviet system). [8/4/2000]

Mark Bergsma (CAS '86) is an agent with Berends Hendricks Stuit Insurance Agency in West Michigan, after having worked in non-profit public relations and marketing. [5/5/04]

Jim Jongsma (CAS '86): "In '95 I started as computer animator for Legal Graphic Communicators in Grand Rapids. I left LGC in Dec '00 and, along with my brother John, we've started a computer animation company. I've also been able to use my God given abilities to help out in some church related video/animation projects. My company web site includes projects that I'm involved in. [2/22/01]

James Jackson (CAS '87) writes writes that he is working as the Internet Content Manager for the East region of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem's East region includes Connecticut, New Hampshire and Maine). The year 2002 will see a lot of change happening to http://www.anthem.com as the site integrates a number of e-Business applications. He lives in Glastonbury, CT and is pursuing a Master's in e-Media from Quinnipiac University -- and looks forward to visiting the new Communications Center at Calvin! [12/19/01]

James Jenkins (CAS '87): "I sold out my share of my web development company in Chicago and moved back to Seattle. I did a bit of contract Program Management for Microsoft and recently took a position as Manager of Production and Broadcast Operations at RBN (Real Broadcast Network) - a division of Real Networks in Seattle. RBN competes with companies like broadcast.com in the webcasting business, which is a cross between a pure broadcast facility and an Internet networking company - streaming media. RBN is capable of delivering over 50,000 concurrent streams of media to the general public for clients like Disney, American Health Network, EWTN, and the list goes on..." [7/1/99]

Erin DeMeester (CAS '88): 153 N. Oak Knoll, Apt. 105 Pasadena, CA 91101. Erin is teaching at Fuller Theological Seminary. [10/25/00]

Jacqueline Eckmann (CAS '88): Since graduating from Calvin, Jacqueline has been back in The Netherlands working in radio and television. She currently works as a producer/reporter for NOS TV-Journaal. "I 'do' national news and even though as you know our country is quite small I still do a lot of driving around to cover all the stories." [9/25/00]

Carol Jenkens (CAS '88): Carol reports on her current activities: "When I was seventeen years old, I was raped. I appreciate that this is a difficult subject about which to talk, but please understand that it is much more difficult for the women and men who have been abused or assaulted or damaged seemingly beyond repair. Up until that time, sexual or physical or even verbal / emotional abuse seemed an impossibility to imagine and suddenly, it dominated my every moment. I spent ten years trying all of the IN therapies, mostly self-administered: denial - avoidance - anger / rage - revenge - self-abuse - promiscuity - self-sufficiency; and they all led one place - back to the open and growing wound. Then, I tried God.

I had become a Christian when I was ten and had led an active life of service to Christ, but when I was assaulted, instead of turning to what I knew to be true, I turned away. But God is faithful and patient. He spent the next eight years teaching and re-teaching me the TRUTH about who He is, who I am and how only He can heal my brokenness. Out of these truths, Iíve written a workbook entitled, ìHealing the Past Godís Wayî. This material takes Biblical principles and teaches how to apply them to our lives. It is written to address the issues of sexual, physical, verbal / emotional abuse in that the principles for healing abuse of any type are very similar. This workbook can be used by an individual as she or he walks the road to healing or it can be used in a group setting (there is a teaching supplement available that will encourage even deeper study of the material).

Churches historically have done a poor job of dealing with individuals deeply wounded by abuse. At best, these people have been sent to therapists or Christian counselors and at worst, they have been ignored. My prayer is that in the next 100 plus years, Jesus Christís Church changes that. We are called to the wounded and the broken-hearted. May this workbook, which is written out of Biblical principles (personally tested), be a small step in that direction.

Please visit my website of Epiphany Communications and take a look to see if the material might be of help to you or a friend or your local church body. [11/13/2000]

Rich Lodewyk (CAS '88): Rich reports "All is well here. I have some good news. Last week I found out that I won an RTNDA Edward R. Murrow award for best sports feature. I don't know that much about the award, but it's an award that covers seven states, the upper Midwest. I won for a feature I did called "Skating with the Sioux." It was a fun reporter involvement feature where I put on my hockey equipment and my old Calvin College beat up hockey helmet and practiced with the University of North Dakota Fighting Sioux hockey team. It turned out better than I expected, and it is a thrill to have won an award. It's the first award I have ever won in TV, so that is nice."

Steven Koster (Communication A & S '89) has just graduated seminary after two decades in video, web, and software marketing. He is now the English Language Ministry Leader for the Back to God Hour and responsible for all English language programming in both North America and internationally. The BTGH also produces progamming in 8 other languages for world-wide distribution. For more information go to http://www.crcna.org/pages/2006jun22_koster.cfm. [7/31/06]

Zoe (Vande Creek) Carmichael (CAS '90): Zoe reports: " I accepted a position with Western Michigan University! My new title is, Coordinator of Student Services - Grand Rapids Campus. My responsibilities will be to meet with adult students, plan degree programs, promote social and community outreach, and general trouble-shooting when people have problems." [4/4/2001]

Bob Brenzing (CAS '91): After seven years with WZZM television in Grand Rapids, Bob just took a job with the American Heart Associatiion in Grand Rapids. [9/4/01]

Tim Jipping (CAS '91): Tim writes:" With the threat of a writers/actors strike a few months ago and now the war we're all dealing with in 1 way or another, business in movies has been slow.  I finished the film The Road to Perdition with Tom Hanks and Paul Newman a while back. I immediately went into a little film called 'Joshua' done by Crusader Films, a Christian owned film company (the owner just bought some 3,000 screens not long ago). It was a good experience and had a 'Christ' like story set in modern times. I've done a few MOW (movie of the week) and a lot of music videos and commercials. Just today we shot part of a video with Bono of the band U2. It is a remake of the Marvin Gaye song 'What's Goin' On.' The song has many singers from all genre's and will raise money for the world AIDS organizations and WTC relief organizations." [10/22/01]

Andrew Vander Maas (CAS '91): "Since graduation the Lord has led me on an intersting path that now finds me as an ordained minister in the PResbyterian Church in America (PCA) serving the Covenant Presbyterian Church in St. Louis. I also spent time working in Campus ministry withe the Coalition for Christian Outreach (CCO) and serving another church as the director of youth ministry. I am still drawing on the traing I received from Calvin in CAS and can see God's wisdom in putting me there." [1/31/00]

Kerry van der Griend (Communication A & S '91) was cast as one of four Neanderthal men in the December-released movie Night at the Museum. Though he still keeps his day job, this is not the only theatre work for the Vancouver-based van der Griend. He has appeared in The Chris Isaak Show, First Wave, The X-Files, and TV movies and commericals. Besides acting in local theatre he also directs plays for Pacific Theatre, a company established "to explore work having particular meaning...to Christians." [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 55]

Kelly Planer (CAS '93): Kelly reports: "I just finished a mini-season of shows for Outdoor Life Network called "Cycling: The Inside Track." I've worked on the show for years, but this is the first time I've actually been responsible for the writing and producing. I profiled several world-class track cyclists, including this year's sprint gold medallist. To date, it's some of my best work - definitely the most enjoyable. What was great was getting e-mail from the athletes I worked with, saying, "I met a cyclist at the master's world championships who said he saw me on TV in Japan..." Of course, I couldn't get my parents to watch the show, but at least I've entertained the Japanese..." [11/13/2000]

Kelly Planer (Communication A & S '93) is working as Senior Producer for First Generation Visual Communication in Allentown, PA. Her responsibilities include writing, producing, and managing projects/events for Volvo, Mack Trucks, Olympus, and Crayola. She said she now knows more about diesel engines and EPA emissions standards than most people! [5/25/06]

Andy Soares (CAS '93): 9205B Maryland Ct. Clovis, NM 88101. Andy writes; "My kids and I are still hanging out in New Mexico. I've been stationed there for five years now and I need to move. I'm making the Air force a career, only 14 years til retirement." [12/13/2000]

Scott Stegenga (Math/CAS '93) writes: "Things have changed at Tunes.com. When I originally started in January, 1999, we were going through the transition of switching our name from JAMtv/RollingStone Network to Tunes.com. So we switched to Tunes.com in Spring 1999. We dropped TheSource.com in the Fall of 1999, kept DownBeatJazz.com and RollingStone.com, and eventually got purchased by Emusic, a leading company in the new MP3 music format market based in Redwood City, CA. Emusic has contracts with several independent music labels, spanning about every genre possible, and sell their music via this new downloadable MP3 format. Its cheaper to sell, cheaper to make, and we're the only MP3 company not being sued by the RIAA right now. The former Tunes.com offices in Chicago are now dedicated solely to RollingStone.com. Down Beat Jazz will be helped by the Emusic people in CA, and the Tunes.com site will still exist in its current form. My new position here is "Senior Internet Engineer" which basically means I'm responsible for all of the front end website code on the RollingStone.com site. I'm just glad to stay in Chicago, I can't get enough of this place, the music scene, the theatre, why leave?" Check out some of Scott's Rolling Stone interviews with rock groups. [4/1920/00]

Scott Stegenga (Math/Communication Arts & Sciences '93) has joined Yahoo! Search Marketing (formerly Overture) in Pasadena, CA as a technical account manager. The company is growing; those interested in employment opportunities with Yahoo! can go to http://careers.yahoo.com/. [10/27/05]

Mike Kerwin(CAS '94): Mike reports: "As of June 2000, I was promoted to Director of Media Services at The John Marshall Law School in Chicago. I supervise a department that is responsible for all of the audio/visual needs of the law school. I am also very fortunate to have an Avid Express system at my disposal. Learning this system has really made my life exciting. Also, we were recently fortunate to win a Telly Award for a video production we completed on The Chicago Fire Trial. I am really looking forward to seeing the new CAS center when it is finished!" [6/13/2001]

Stacy (Schneider) Martin (Telecommunications '94): Stacy writes: I am currently living in Hickory, North Carolina with my husband and 2 year old son.  We are very happy here and it's a beautiful area of the state near the mountains.  I am expecting our second child in May.  I currently work at Express, the woman's clothing store.  I am the store manager there, and I couldn't be happier.  I originally began with Express as assistant manager and had planned to work there only until I found something more in my field.  I now have my own store, and I am enjoying myself so much, I've decided to stay and keep working for this company. [10/15/2000]

Russ Roozeboom (CAS '94): Russ is working for davison dietsch mccarthy in Grand Rapids. [11/8/1999]

Jeff Verhoef (Communications '94): Jeff writes: "After sneaking out of Calvin in '94, moved to the Detroit area looking for a job. I started out doing educational programming for the Troy School District. In '95, moved over to the City of Troy Communications Department, where I spent three years producing all kinds of programming, from local sports to informational news shows. Got married in 1997 to a woman I met here, and we were blessed with our boy William (named after Professor Romanowski, of course). In 1998, I thought I had hit it big when I signed on to KDN Videoworks, a production house with big name clients-ABC, CBS, General Motors, Fox Sports, ESPN, to name a few. I primarily did news-gathering, but I also had the opportunity to do some editing. After a year of constant 15 hour days and missing much of the first year of William's life, I went back to the City of Troy in 1999, where I am now overhauling its cable television and multimedia operations, including (in the future) streaming video to the Web and transitioning to digital capture of local events. [6/12/00]

Kirsten Kelly (Communication A & S '95) reported that her collaborative work with Anne de Mare, Asparagus! (A Stalk-umentary), was selected as one of 75 films to premiere at the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival - the largest documentary film festival in the United States! In July, the film won Best Documentary at Rural Route Film Festival in New York City (http:www.ruralroutefilms.com) More about Kirsten Kelly and her film in Spark Online Edition or check out the Local Food Farm Film Fest coming to Grand Rapid's Wealthy Theatre at www.farmswithout harm.org. [9/13/06]

In other news, Kirsten Kelly's adaptation of Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream was presented by the Oceana Summer Youth Theatre in August. After her documentary tour, she returned to Oceana County to provide artistic leadership and advanced training for the young actors in that program. [9/1/06]

Chris Weening (CAS '95): "Since leaving the promotion dept. at WZZM-13 (in GR) in late '97, I moved to North Carolina, got married (to a wonderful woman named Missy) and moved again. This time back to my hometown, Calgary, CANADA. I have just finished my first year of the MBA program at the University of Calgary, and find that I love business. After I graduate, who knows what I'll do, but I hope to settle down and finally stay in one business for more than 2.5 years. If anyone is in this part of the world, and wants to know where to go to see the most beautiful sights in the Canadian rockies, look me up and I'll point you in the right direction." [4/10/00]

Patty Tawadros (Art/Communication A & S/Business '95) launched IntegriDate, a Web site she describes as "the Consumer Reports of online dating profiles with an eBay model of feedback" in January of 2007. Besides feedback on dater profiles, IntegriDate offers dating advice and hosts a blogging community. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 57]

Pete Bruinsma (CAS '96): "I'm still in Grand Rapids, although its sucking the sarcasm out of me. Catch my radio show Mondays 9-noon on 88.1 FM WYCE. I'm known as Pete Drover." [3/9/2000]

Robyn (Haddad) Tierny (CAS '96): Robyn writes: ""Early Edition" got cancelled. But God was very good in providing me with another job and I didn't even have to look. One of our Executive Producers has a term deal with Sony Pictures and asked me to come along with him to develop pilots. He also took a producing gig for a new show for the WB called "Dead Last" which I will be working on as well. It's basically a live-action Scooby Doo. Other than that, I am busy with the December wedding plans!!! " [6/27/00]]

Karen Hutcheson Montemayor (CAS '96): 11229 W. 64th, # 714, Shawnee, KS 66203. Karen reports: "I just celebrated (if that's the right word) my second anniversary working as an editor in the Publications Division of the American Academy of Family Physicians. But much more importantly, my husband Jim and I celebrated our 3rd anniversary this year by going to a James Taylor concert at an outdoor amphitheater. We also just bought our first home. [8/24/01]

Kevin Schut (CAS '96): Quoting Kevin, Brad reports: "I was married in the summer following graduation to Kristin (formerly VandeGriend). The fall of '96, we contacted Christian Reformed World Missions, and in the space of five weeks they got us ready and sent us off to teach as high school teachers in the Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) at the International Christian Academy. We were there for the first half of 1997, and then switched to the International Christian School of Budapest in Hungary. We taught there for three years (fall of 1997 through spring of 2000). We felt, though, that the Lord was leading us to other things, and so the following fall we started grad school at the University of Iowa. While my wife is getting her masters in Science Education, I am in my third semester of going for my PhD in Communication Studies, and I hope to graduate in the spring of 2004." [12/3/2001]

Brad Van Arragon (English/CAS '96): Brad's feature film, "Finder's Fee," just won the coveted Golden Space Needle Award at the Seattle Film Festival; 300 new films competed for the honor. [6/20/2001]

Tiffany Wicks (CAS '96): Tiffany is now working at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Phoenix. She got there by a tangled path of jobs, including some that wanted all of her time. She writes that God led her to her current excellent position: "I do special events, our quarterly newsletter, and media relations." [2/24/2000]

Gerrit Hagen (Telecommunications '97): After a year off to drive long distance trucks, Gerrit reports: "After that I moved home to Hamilton, ONT and decided to go back to school. I went to Rildhood Education' program. She and I will be getting married this coming April on the 28th." [9/2920/00]

Heather Maggart (Rhetoric '97): Heather reports: "I am writing to tell you about my job at Crystal Canyon Interactive. We call ourselves information architects and we do a wide variety of web, cd rom, and dvd development. We are also known for our creation of educational training modules for cd rom and dvd. We are a small company that has been in business for about 7 years. Not only have we taken on smaller accounts, but we have also serviced several fortune 500 companies such as Delta Airlines, CNN, Audi, Honda, Novell, Apple, and Office Max just to name a few. Right now I am responsible for 5 new products that we are promoting. We are especially focusing on the compression of video to cd rom and dvd, however we do a lot with portal building, digital video and dvd production, ad building and computer based training. [2/23/2001]

Carol Nazzal (Telecommunications '97): Carol writes: "After graduating from Calvin, I put some time in at an advertising company here in the Detroit area. However, with the help of Mark Van Andel I came to realize my passion was to introduce the Gospel to high school students through Young Life. I have been on staff with Young Life in the Detroit area for three years now and I love it more than ever. " [9/5/2000]

Tim Kooima (Telecommunications/Theatre '97): Tim reports: "After graduation and a brief stint as a commercial editor for a small production house, I moved on to the 'exciting & glamorous' life of television as a part-time camera operator at WZZM 13 in Grand Rapids. That was about 3 years ago. I've since moved up the ranks to Director. Because Grand Rapids is a rather small market I'm responsible for directing, technical directing and making graphics for our weekend shows. I also direct the noon news and technical direct our 5:30 pm show during the week. Though you won't see my name at the end of the show (we don't run credits), I've reached my goal of calling the shots." [2/12/01]

Matt Miller (English/CTC '97): "Since graduation I have worked as an actor with a several theatre companies throughout the Midwest, but I am now doing more work on the other side of the stage. I interned as a casting assistant at the Goodman Theatre last fall and I won the best director award at a recent Chicago play festival which has translated into some great opportunities--I am especially excited about my fall project as a guest director at Trinity Christian College (thank you Ken DeWyn and Annalee Ward). Outside of the theatre world, I continue to teach reading classes for the Institute of Reading Development." [7/19/00]

Ishughun (Orkar) Kolehmainen (Film Studies '97): "I work as a multimedia video producer for a software training company in the downtown Chicago area." [9/5/00]

Heather (Gryska) Straight (Psychology/CAS '97): "I work for Goodwill Industries of Greater GR in the marketing department, and am responsible for planning and managing all of our PR and community outreach efforts." [7/15/2000]

Stephen Thomasma (Telecommunications '97): "I have some great news. I was promoted to Licensed Insurance Salesperson in the AARP sales department at Foremost. I used to be in the customer service department." [12/8/2000]

Carolyn (DeHaan) Timmer (Telecommunications '97): "I recently made a career switch from an Account Manager with Davison Dietsch McCarthy in Grand Rapids to Marketing Assistant/Recruitment Specialist for Ferris State University - Grand Rapids (downtown). It's my second day (as I write), so I really wouldn't technically call me a 'Specialist' just yet. I was married in September '99 to Jeff Timmer ('96). Life is good." [5/15/2000]

Patti Travasos (Telecommunications '97): Patti reports that she is now Director of Marketing and Special Events for Clear Channel Communications in Charleson, SC. She says: "It's very busy and heavily involved with many members of this area, and I really doi enjoy it." [11/20/01]

Jeff VanHaitsma (Business-CAS Group '97): Jeff is now working with a professional improv team based in Grand Rapids., and got married in August 1999. [11/8/99]

Andrew Schuurman (Telecommunications '97): Andrew writes: "I'm currently working at Fox Sports Network in Los Angeles as a highlight supervisor. Sports at the network level is very exciting but overwhelmingly worldly at times. I've been at Fox almost a year and a half already... how time flies. I spend the little spare time that I have with my wife Cathi (Lauger, BA '97), who teaches Middle School English. I'm also trying to do my share for the future of America by coaching a youth puppet team at our church." [2/25/99]

Karen VanValkenburg Campbell (Rhetoric and Communication '98) is publicity director for Zondervan in Grand Rapids, MI. [12/12/05]

Steve De Ruiter (Telecommunications '98) has been accepted at North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL. [10/20/05]

Steven DeRuiter (Telecommunications '98): Steve reports that his band is active: "Longitude is an indie rock band made up of three Calvin alumni (Robert Wildeboer, Joe LaGrand, and Steven DeRuiter). Based in Chicago, Longitude is currently promoting their second album "...by the things that light the night" through international touring and distribution. Longitude has been gaining attention over the past year with it's sorrowful, yet triumphant songs that are rife with infectious melodies. To find out more about Longitude, visite their website at http://www.longitudemusic.com or email
info2longitudemusic.com." [11/15/2001]

Melissa Hicks (Telecommunications '98): Melissa reports: "I am currently in my 3rd year in campus ministry with University of Pittsburgh students. I work at a church that's ideally located in the midst of this very urban campus. The position is also in conjunction with the campus ministry organization called Coalition for Christian Outreach." [2/19/01]

Jeremy Kooistra (Film Studies '98): Everything is going well with Kim and I. We are living happily in downtown Chicago. After our wedding in September we moved down here to bring us closer to our jobs. Living down here has taken some getting used to, but it's an adventure. We're looking forward the many festivals that come around here with better weather. Kim used her experience in the mortgage business to get a job with a commercial lending company. I am still with National PTA, working on their websites. [4/16/1999]

Briana (Lien) Horlings (Rhetoric '98): Briana writes: " I have a new job at J.Walter Thompson, in downtown Detroit. I am working on www.fordvehicles.com, and I am having so much fun. This job pretty much landed in my lap one day. My boss is a friend that I volunteer with in YoungLife, and it's great having a believer here at work.." [8/25/2000]

Joel Munk (Business-CAS Group '98): Joel reports: "The last 6 months have been a whirlwind of change - again. Last I wrote I was working on getting our website updated and a little more user friendly. That kept me busy, along with other miscellaneous projects from March through September of last year. Then in October the bomb hit - Cardpro was sold to a company in Milwaukee; actually a client of ours for years. The news was quite a shock to everyone here. Cardpro just turned 20 last November and has always been a tightly knit company - fewer than 75 employees and many people who know each other through church and Timothy. Bastian Knoppers, Cardpro's president and owner, is still with the company as President of Cardpro, a business unit of M&I Data Services. We were bought by M&I because they recognized us as a leader in the card personalization industry. Their core business is driving the transactions and programs of ATM and debit cards - the cards we personalize. M&I had a small personalization facility but we handled a lot of their bigger clients and any overflow they couldn't handle. They wanted to offer their clients the best personalization possible and thought we were the answer. I'm biased, of course, but I would agree we are the best in the business. In October we began the migration of all clients who were processed at M& I to our facility. This was roughly 900 clients over a 4 month period! It's been an extremely busy few months but has been good. I am now a Business Analyst overseeing all the M&I banks that come to us from M&I. I maintain a database with which I assign the materials to each bank and also act as a problem solver/firefighter when problems arise with these some 900 banks. I have again been put into a position I never thought I'd be in but have really enjoyed it and look forward to the future that's been opened up - whether here or elsewhere. [3/28/2000]

Bryn Jones (Film Studies '98) has been published by Focus On The Family's Breakaway magazine with seven of his short stories. He's also working on a suspense novel that he will be marketing in the spring of 2008. For more information on Bryn visit his home page. [10/10/07]

Rob Prince (Telecommunications '99) Former Calvin employee Rob Prince is now at the University of Alaska Fairbanks as an assistant journalism professor. But a project he worked on while at Calvin is still making headlines. His documentary, Making Choices: The Dutch Resistance during World War II which explores the wartime lives of four participants in the Dutch resistance during World War II, will screen as part of the the East Lansing Film Festival's Lake Michigan Film Competition on Sunday, March 26 at 11:30am at Wells Hall on the campus of Michigan State University.

The film won the Audience Award at the Northern Lights Documentary Film
Festival and was picked up for national PBS distribution by the National
Educational Telecommunications Association. It was recently shown as part of the closing event at the Farthest North Jewish Film Festival March 5, 2006. For more news visit Professor Prince Online. [9/13/06]

Nick Rogers (Theatre '99) recently received his MBA from the E. Philip Saunders College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology. After a short stint as Interim Director of Graduate Business Admissions, he is currently serving as the Senior Research Administrator for the College of Science with Sponsored Research Services at RIT. Nick continues his artistic and creative endeavors by serving as an independent marketing and design consultant to several local organizations and as a featured vocal performer for local church and community based events. He lives with his wife Sharon Vandezande ('99) in Rochester, NY. Visit Nick's home page at: http://www.nicholasdrogers.com/Site/Home.html [11/16/06]

Aaron B. Smith (Film Studies '99) was recently honored with a Reel Spirituality/Los Angeles Film Studies Center (LAFSC) Film Award during the annual Reel Spirituality conference in Los Angeles, California. On October 21, 2006, Smith’s film Loaded was featured during a special day-long series of workshops, “Reel Spirituality 101: Unpacking Movies and their Meaning,” which were held at Pepperdine University in Malibu. Barry Taylor, film composer and adjunct professor of popular culture and theology at Fuller Theological Seminary, led a discussion on the importance of music and sound design in cinema, using Smith’s award-winning Loaded as an example of excellence in those aspects of filmmaking craft. For the full story go to CAS News. [11/7/06]

Jared Van Alstyne (European History/Theatre '99): Jared writes: "I have continued performing with Madcap Puppets, a giant puppet-touring-childrens-theatre company, based out of Cincinnati, Ohio. This spring I'll be performing in one of Madcap's only musical shows based on the story of Rapunzel.I'll be traveling to elementary schools and other community centers across the midwest and eastern United States with this show until the end of May. The Cincinnati Enquirer had this to say about our show." [1/27/01]

Ella White-Stevens (Rhetoric '99): Ella is a Communications Specialist for Operation Mobilization in Tyrone, Georgia. [10/7/99]


Derek Benthem (Telecommunications '99) has accepted an online marketing management position with the Walt Disney Co. in Burbank, California. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 52]

Hannah Kim (Rhetoric '00): Hannah reports: " I am a project coordinator at Hanon-McKendry (GR's top advertising agency!). I really like my job, the people that I work with and the advertising that we produce! Advertising is a great industry and I believe Calvin College has helped me to become a roaring lamb in my career." [3/1/01]

Peter Kooiman (Film Studies '00): Peter reports: "I have a new title and new responsibilities at Entrepreneur Magazine. I'm now an Asst. Editor and my columns focus on sales and marketing issues. Currently living in Huntington Beach, CA." [6/20/01]

Deborah Lew (English/Theatre '00) Calvin Theatre Company grad, Deborah Lew, takes to the Broadway stage as part of the ensemble of a revival of The Threepenny Opera. Cast members include Alan Cumming, Cyndi Lauper, Ana Gasteyer, Nellie McKay and Jim Dale. See Deborah in The North Shore Music Theatre's version of Cinderella. [9/13/06]

Deborah Lew (English/Theatre '00) has been offered the starring role of Belle in the Broadway production of Beauty and the Beast, after being one of the Belle's understudies and playing in the ensemble for the last couple of months. She steps into her new role on December 26, 2006. [11/30/06]

Sarah Porter (Music/CAS/Religion & Theology '00): Sarah reports: "As part of the Words of HOPE team, I'll be producing radio programs that will air internationally. My primary responsibility will be for a new program called Specialized English. This program uses a special English technique (limited vocabulary of 1500 words, simple sentence structure, and delivery pace of about 90 words per minute), allowing non-native speakers to practice the language and build vocabulary. This is the only program of its kind to feature Christian content. In addition to Specialized English, I'll also be working to produce Buzz98, a program aimed at young people living in Asia. Both programs have web sites: Specialized English and Buzz98." [6/14/00]

Sarah Potter (Business-CAS Group '00): "I work at an educational resources manufacturer in Grand Rapids called Instructional Fair Group. Our products are mainly sold in retail teacher stores, and I manage a 12-person national sales group. I do everything from analyze their sales reports to creating newsletters for our dealers. Instructional Fair was recently purchased by McGraw-Hill, and it is interesting being apart of an organization that is in such transition. " [10/24/00]

Michelle Sawyer (IDIS '00): Michelle writes: "I took a job working for The Wordsmiths, a GR marketing communications studio as a project manager and layout designer." [4/24/00]

Sara Schipper (Telecommunications '00): Sara reports: " i've been in honduras a month now, so i figured i'd give an update on my crazy life. as of right now i am sitting in the dark because my power is out. thank goodness for battery powered computers!! thank goodness for roommates that have battery powered computers! i've got about 2 weeks of teaching under my belt, and i am thankful to still be alive. teaching in so incredibly hard, especially when you're working with no resources. teaching in honduras calls for a lot of creativity that is for sure. but, i had no idea how hard it was going to be. i am not complaining though. life here is full of twists and turns, and hours without power...keeps things interesting, just how i like them." [9/21/00]

Rachel Stevens (Communications '00): Rachel reports: "I finished undergrad at Loyola Marymount Univ. in 2000 with degree in TV production. Currently living in Studio City, CA. Finished work on Princess Diaries (movie), Dr. Laura Show, 15th Annual Comedy Awards and starting work on the Jerry Lewis Telethon (airs labor day weekend). Really feeling blessed that God has enabled opportunities to work in the Entertainment Industry and be an example of Christ. Keep in touch! [8/20/01]

Shontel VanderLugt (Business-CAS Group/Psychology '00): "Baker has offered me a position as the assistant to the director of sales and marketing. I just accepted the position and am very excited about starting there in July." [6/28/00]

Joel Veenstra (Theatre '00): "My post-graduation life is going fairly well, but again I have assumed the busy lifestyle that typified my years at Calvin College. The bad news is that this perpetual business keeps me from keeping better in touch with you, the good news is that I'm staying afloat financially (a hard thing to do according to several other people and college grads I know) and I'm working in areas that I enjoy (which is a huge blessing). I am working at WZZM Channel 13 (an ABC affiliate), but that is just one of my many avenues of work. WZZM 13 is just where I work every weekday mornings shooting the Morning News. I am also freelancing as a Theatre and Video Consultant and Producer. In regard to theatre, my biggest client thus far is Fair Haven Ministries, a church of around four thousand members in Hudsonville, where I am currently directing their drama ministry.

Also I am doing some acting, which is very exciting. My main acting work is with River City Improv. We perform about 80 times a year, both private and public shows. I also performed improvisational vignettes this past month in Hark Up 2000, a contemporary celebration of Christ's birth sponsored by Fair Haven Ministries, which was well received by our almost sold out crowds and reviewer from the Press. And the latest blessing is that I recently received my first paid role in a professional production called Tony N' Tina's Wedding by Michael James Productions; it will be in rehearsal for the month of January and then will run for the month of February." [12/28/00]

Act One Executive Program alumnus Joel Veenstra has accepted a position as the Assistant to the VP of Development at Alcon Entertainment (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Racing Stripes, Insomnia). Joel was originally placed in Alcon's development department for his Executive Program internship. [1/25/06]

Joel Veenstra (Theatre '00) has been asked to join WELSH POETS SOCIETY, which is a long-form improvisation grad group at Second City Los Angeles. Welsh Poets Society performs every Tuesday at 8 p.m. during Soirée Tuesday (with three other groups) at The Second City Studio Theatre, located at 6560 Hollywood Blvd. (2nd floor), Los Angeles, CA 90028-6217. Tickets are $5 at the door. If you're in the area, drop in and see Joel in action. [9/11/07]

Julie (Vugteveen) Veenstra (Rhetoric '00): Julie happily reports she has accepted a job with the Grand Rapids area blood bank, building on a project she did in Professor Bytwerk's "Persuasion and Propaganda" class. [4/19/00]

Jamie Visscher (Telecommunications '00): "I recently accepted a job at Jarman-Johnson Communications! I am now the new Executive Communication Assistant there and will start the last week in July." [7/12/00]

Annie (Westra) Syens (Rhetoric '00): "I am officially the Community Relations Coordinator for Gilda's Club Grand Rapids. I am coordinating the volunteers for all of our programs, events and workshops. The second half of my job is to work with Liz Amante in public relations. Basically I am her assistant. I write press releases, design postcards/brochures/fliers, write letters to affiliates, prospects and donors and basically just do whatever they ask me to. A lot of my time is taken up just showing volunteers around, giving tours and talking with the volunteers. It is very much a relational position and I spend a lot of after work hours catching up on paper work. I love it. I am really learning a lot. People always say that the non-profit end of business doesn't pay well, but if you're working for an organization that you are fired-up about, somehow it just all works out." [9/21/00]

Nathan Finley (Telecommunications '01) has taken a position at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California where he is working for the University Library as a technology coordinator. Nathan works with all the departments within the library to serve their technology needs. Recently, he worked with the Special Collections department to edit audio and video clips for a new exhibit on jazz musician, Dave Brubeck. This exhibit will appear at the Pacific Library, before starting on a tour around the United States. [3/23/06]

Nathan Finley (Telecommunications '01) has recently accepted a new position at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, CA. He is now an application administrator for the Blackboard Learning Suite there on campus. He provides administration and support for the faculty, staff and students. He is also beginning to pursue a Master's Degree in Education, with an emphasis on Student Affairs. [04/19/07]

Andrea Rip (Telecommunications '01): "I'm now working with Sweetener Supply. We buy and sell sugars, starches, salt and other food commodities. I have been staying with the Sikkengas for the past six weeks. Phil Sikkenga ended up getting a job in the same company in another location. His wife, Jen, is working in my office. It definitely helps to know people! The first day I went to work I was told that I was going to learn the whole company and then after 3-6 months I could decide where I wanted my job to go." [8/16/01]

Phil Christman (Rhetoric and Communication '01) finished his master's in English literature at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He began creative writing studies at the University of South Carolina, Columbia this fall. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 55]

Jeff De Kock (Telecommunications '01) lived in a camel skin hut eating camel meat and drinking camel's milk with the Rendille tribe of northern Kenya on and off over the past three years. He has made a film about one of the tribe's myths titled Banayye, The Rendille Queen. Because of his knowledge of the tribe, Jeff has been enlisted by the Kenyan government to shoot a documentary on the state of the tribe's environment. He is pursuing post-graduate studies in visual anthroplogy at the University of Manchester in England. To read more of his account of the Rendille people, click here. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 55]

Caty Rozema (English/Communication A & S/Art '01) lives in a different country every month - 52 of them in the last four years. She works for Harris Corporation, training staff at U.S. Embassies and consulates around the world to use new hardware and software designed to improve their services, such as processing passports, for Americans abroad. Rozema believes her globe-hopping job is "something God's given me to open my eyes to where and how I might be be used in the next part of my life." [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 59]

Nick Dekker (English/Theatre '01) will be receiving his Ph.D. in theatre studies from Ohio State University on June 10, 2007. [5/14/07]

Terrence Schoone-Jongen (Theatre '01) is making plans for law school as he nears the time of graduation from Ohio State University with his doctorate in theatre studies. [5/15/07]

Stephen Swanson (Film Studies '01) has just completed his doctorate in American Culture Studies at Bowling Green State University. He has accepted a position teaching English at Penn State - Erie. Steve and his wife, Jenna ('03), are expecting their first child in January. [7/06/07]

Nathan Bierma ('02) was recently honored at a book reception in the DeVos Communication Center to celebrate his new book Bring Heaven Down to Earth. The introduction and Nathan's comments can be heard by following the book reception link at www.bringingheaven.com. [5/15/06]

Stephen Jarvis (Telecommunications '02) is currently working as a film editor in Chicago at the post-house Red Car whose main product is television commercials. Stephen also does occasional voice-over work. Listen for him on the McDonald's Dollar Menu spot on air right now! [10/5/06]

Monique Mejan (Telecommunications '02) has just been accepted into the Claremont Graduate University. [03/05/07]

Adam Mellema (Theatre '02) has been working primarily as a segment producer on "Come On Over", a delightful new Mr. Rogers-meets-Monty Python TV show coming in the fall of 2006. He is overseeing an animation segment and live action "learning lessons" that happen out of the studio. There is lots of storyboard design, hefty travel, multitudes of odd props, bizarre locations, and a constant fourteen karot riot! For more about "Come on Over" go to: http://www.comeonover.tv/ [6/27/06]

Sara VanderHaagen (Philosophy/CAS '02): Sara reports: "I am in Boston, thanks to an awfully persistent sort of Providence. To be more precise, I'm working at Lexington Christian Academy in (!) Lexington, MA as a Development Associate. The school is chock full of fantastic people and I'm learning a lot and eventually hoping to contribute just as much. It's a good place to take in some practical knowledge while I assess my situation and basically stew about my next calling..." [9/7/2002]

Rebecca Noricks (Business/CAS Group '02) received her master's in public administation with an emphasis in nonprofit management from Grand Valley State University in April. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 56]

Adam Mellema (Theatre '02) The movie "Jump In!: Pop-up Edition" hits the Disney Channel Friday, June 1 at 9/8c. It stars Corbin Bleu, the crazy-haired guy from “High School Musical.” It was Adam's joy and delight to have been both a WRITER and a PRODUCER on the project. [6/1/07]

Beth Heinen Bell (Rhetoric and Communication/Journalism '03) former Editor in Chief of Chimes (2002-2003), now works as the education reporter for the Grand Haven Tribune, a daily newspaper in Grand Haven, Michigan. For further news on Beth's adventures check out the paper online at www.grandhaventribune.com [7/3/06]

Kristi Bowden (Communication Disorders '03) graduated with an MA program from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and is a speech language pathologist at Elmhurst Hospital in the Chicago area. [12/12/05]

Ryan Hoke (Theatre '03), along with his wife Jacqui, is featured in the world premiere of A Bright Particular Star, by Rod Reed at the Pacific Theatre in Vancouver, British Colombia May 4 through June 3, 2006. [05/22/06]

Christina (Anderson) DeVos (Mass Media/Poly Sci/English '04) has been hired by the Grand Rapids Symphony as a special events manager. [11/05/05]

Brian Farish (Theatre '04): Brian was just accepted in Harvard's prestigious actor-training M.F.A. It's one of the best in the country if not the very best. He's still waiting to hear about financial aid, but this is truly a MAJOR accomplishment for him. [5/2/2005]

Anne Plasman (Communication Disorders '04) Graduated with a M.S. degree in Communication Sciences & Disorders from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA (May, 06). Currently working at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids. [10/13/06]

Laura Hoksbergen Bultman (Theatre '04) received her master's in library science from the University of Illinois and now works as a children's librarian in New York City. Last winter she enjoyed moonlighting as a stage manager for the Village Light Opera Group's production of Oklahoma. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 57]

Dean Kladder (CAS/Mass Media '04) received his master of divinity degree from Princeton Theological Seminary in May 2007. He and his wife Andrea, both serve as associate pastors at Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington, Illinois. [The Calvin SPARK Winter 2007, p. 54]

Brian Farish (Theatre '04) is receiving his MFA in Acting from Harvard University. He has studied and worked in Moscow, Russia at the world-renowned Moscow Art Theater and in the fall of 2006 he was part of an experimental musical play at the ART, playing alongside members of the band The Dresden Dolls (www.dresdendolls.com), which toured New England. [05/14/07]

Andrea Hagerup (Rhetoric and Communication '05) is now in Louisville, KY working for Louisville Urban Corps. Originally founded by the Mennonite Church, the LUC mission is to "create work opportunities that support vocational exploration and practical faith formation in supportive community living." Her updates can be found on www.xanga.com/andicandy. [8/15/05]

Jacqui (De Boer) Hoke (Theatre '05) is featured, along with her husband Ryan, in the world premiere of A Bright Particular Star, by Rod Reed at the Pacific Theatre in Vancouver, British Colombia May 4 through June 3, 2006. [05/22/06]

Uche Ilobi (Rhetoric and Communication '05) has been accepted into the communication graduate program at Syracuse University, New York with a two-year assistantship beginning in the fall of 2006. She knows that Syracuse is the place to which God has called her and is looking forward to serving there and expanding her knowledge of the many aspects of communication. Go 'Cuse! [04/10/06]

Bethany Keeley (English/Rhetoric and Communication '05) is a doctoral student in rhetoric at the University of Georgia. She wrote an article about the Calvin 2005 commencement which was published (in English) in a Dutch newspaper. [06/06/05]

Josh Leo (Mass Media '05) has been hired full time as an English Language Radio Producer at Words Of Hope. Josh's involvement with the movement of Videoblogging has garnered some publicity in the form of a feature on Michigan Public Radio and also a article in the Grand Rapids Press. See photos at: pictures1 and pictures2. Josh also teaches videoblogging at the Community Media Center in Grand Rapids. For more information visit his website. [2/20/06]

Sara VanderHaagen (Philosophy/Communication A & S '05) has been awarded a Harvey Fellowship from the Mustard Seed Foundation. Sara says, "Since the Calvin CAS program was so influential in my decision to pursue graduate work in rhetoric, I thought you might like to share in the good news. Besides being an encouragement of my vocational choices and scholarly work, this fellowship will provide an excellent opportunity for me to interact with other Christian graduate students at similar institutions." [03/15/07]

Julie Herrmann (Speech Pathology and Audiology '05) completed her master's in speech-language pathology at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She now works in pediatrics at a hospital in Lafayette, Indiana. [The Calvin SPARK Fall 2007 p. 57]

Bethany Keeley (English/Rhetoric and Communication '05) was featured in the July 10 edition of the Dubuque Telegraph (Dubuque, IA) in an article called "Why Do 'People' Misuse Quotation Marks?". To see what Bethany had to say on the subject, visit http://www.thonline.com/article.cfm?id=165311. [7/11/07]

Bethany Keeley (Rhetoric and Communication '05) completed her master's degree in speech communication at the University of Georgia in August 2007. She is now beginning work on her PhD in the same program. [The Calvin SPARK Winter 2007 P. 54]

Alex Agard (Theatre '06) After a busy week auditioning in Boston and NYC, Alex is happy to report that he will soon be singing and dancing in a musical revue called "Get Happy" at Timbers Dinner Theatre in scenic Mt. Gretna, PA. He's currently a few weeks into rehearsals for his part in "Ragtime: the Musical" which opens May 11. [04/12/07]

Seth Beals (Business Communications '06) There's a new search engine in town! Quick-Finds.com is owned and operated by this recent graduate. Quick-Finds.com is similar to Google.com in most major respects. It can be used to find web results, images, news and shopping resources. Visit www.quick-finds.com today and help support this new venture. [04/06/06]

Mieke Jones (Film Studies '06) reports that she just finished working as Jeannine Oppewal's assistant for reshoots of scenes for "The Good Shepherd," a Robert DeNiro film starring DeNiro, Matt Damon, Angelina Jolie, and Joe Pesci. [9/18/06]

Jessica Kadlub (Mass Media '06) accepted a position as full-time dayside reporter with K2-TV in Casper, Wyoming. By July, the station hopes to have her anchoring on weekends. [05/22/06]

Joe Kawano (Film Studies '06), along with a fellow Calvin student and his fiancee, was blessed to begin a video production company - iTrain Learning Systems. Their first product called "Career Track" is coming out soon. For more information about Joe's activites visit his website at: www.myiguy.com. [02/12/06]

Liz Klynstra (Mass Media '06) After one year as a News Assistant for FOX 17 News in Grand Rapids, Liz was promoted to the position of Weekend Assignment Editor. Her new job brings additional responsibility along with opportunities to get out and about on assignments. [02/11/06]

Jeff McBride (Mass Media '06) is currently working full time as a video editor/motion graphics designer at LimeGreen Productions (www.limegreenproductions.com) where the main business is production and post-production of National TV Spots and PR Packages. [02/12/07]

Kristen Mitchell (Mass Media '06) reports that her education at Calvin has paid off. She has accepted a position with Grooters Productions in Holland, Michigan as a Production Assistant/Assistant to the Project Manager. [10/09/06]

Sasha E. Wolff (Film Studies '06) recently began working as associate producer at WZZM for the brand new weekend morning newscast. WZZM ranks 39th in the top 50 markets in the U.S. [08/16/06]

Alex Agard (Theatre '06) has been working on Dreamgirls at the Palace Theatre in Manchester, Hew Hampshire but that is not his biggest news. He has been offered a 15 month Equity principal contract for the singing role of "Kiume" in "Festival of the Lion King" at Disney World's Animal Kingdom in Florida. Friends of Alex can see him at work in this production between mid-December and February 2009. [10/31/07]

Sasha E. Wolff (Film Studies '06) reports that, "After a year of working at WZZM 13, I've been promoted to the Weekend Morning producer. It is a huge undertaking, but I feel prepared for the task because of the work ethic instilled in me at Calvin." [09/04/07]

Lorien Reese (Theatre '06) has been accepted for graduate study in dramaturgy at the pretigious State University of New York at Stony Brook. [5/14/07]

Katherine "Kate" Allodi (Mass Media '07) has accepted a full-time position near her hometown of Wheaton, Illinois as a Public Relations and Marketing Communications Assistant at NEC Display Solutions. Kate says, "This great opportunity came to me through a staffing firm, as they found my resume on Careerbuilder.com. I am ecstatic to be so close to my "dream job" right out of college! Many thanks to Calvin's CAS department for helping me realize what I wanted to do with my life and for giving me the tools to do it well." [10/10/07]

Jordan Horras (Mass Media/Film Studies '07) reports that he has been working as a Studio Camera Operator and studio production assistant for the Big Ten Network which broadcasts and reports on all Big Ten school sports. [09/19/07]