Class of 2022 Senior Salutes
Class of 2022 Senior Salutes
Senior Salutes is a new series that recognizes and celebrates a number of Aquinas seniors that were nominated due to their efforts in the classroom, across campus, and in the community. These seniors show why it's great to be a Saint!
Morgan Nissen
Hometown: Seagrave, Ontario, Canada
High School: Monsignor Paul Dwyer Catholic High School
Areas of Study: Mathematics, Chemistry and French, minor in Physics
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
Aquinas was an excellent opportunity to continue doing all of the things that I loved: hockey, math, science, and music.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
I remember when my team won the NAIA national tournament in hockey. I don't think I stopped smiling for a week. Upon reflection, I wasn't smiling because of the big trophy we won, but rather because of the feeling of fulfillment that encapsulated me. I was acutely aware of the dedication that was required to win that tournament, and I have a lasting sense of pride in all of the hard work that was put into that season.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
I have been challenged in ways I never thought possible. I feel like Aquinas has shaped me into an extremely resilient and persistent person.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
I hope to complete a Ph.D. in number theory, cryptography, or a related field of study. My end goal is to have a career in information security or as a mathematics researcher.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank my mom and dad, teaching me that you can鈥檛 beat a man who never quits. All of the professors in the math, chemistry, and French departments. Especially Dr. McDaniel, Dr. Durham, Dr. Boyd, Dr. Pichot, Dr. Jensen, and Dr. Ghosh, for always standing by me and supporting me in my goals. I would also like to thank my hockey team, my rugby team and older and younger brothers for challenging me to do the best I can in everything I do. I'd like to thank so many other friends (too many to name) who always helped me pick myself up and were always there when I needed someone to lean on or to listen.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
Accepting the mantle of being an AQ Saint means acknowledging a heritage of excellence. To claim that you are an AQ Saint means you accept the challenge that is extended to each of us. We strive for greatness in each endeavor, we study rigorously, we practice relentlessly, and we compete with a purpose. It is great to be an AQ Saint because when you live by these expectations, your life is enriched with challenges and opportunities you never would have thought possible.
Yadira De-Leon-Lopez
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
High School: City High Middle School
Area of Study: Health Science
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
Small class size was definitely on my priority list when deciding on a school! I graduated from a small public inner-city high school, so I wanted something that reminded me of it. Also, the faculty-to-student ratio was something I was drawn to. I believe it has made my college experience ever more meaningful.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
I would say freshman year AQ GET IT DONE NIGHT during exam cram or what is now called finals countdown. The weeks leading up to winter break were stressful, yet, still exciting as a freshman. I remember entering the library with a checklist of things I needed to finish before the night was over. My anxiety levels were definitely high, however, to my surprise, I was welcomed by food, friendly faces, four-legged friends, and even a massage! I can't remember if I got everything done on my list, but I left with a sense of hope entering finals week.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
I am definitely not the same student I was my freshman year. My experience at Aquinas allowed me to grow in all aspects of life. I have accomplished many things that as a freshman I would only dream of, such as conducting research as an undergraduate. From my time here, one thing that I have come to truly appreciate is the value of belonging to a community. Once I leave Aquinas, I believe that I will continue to find ways to connect with others and create a welcoming atmosphere, just like how I was greeted as a freshman at Aquinas.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
After graduation, I hope to work for a year and take some time to reflect and to give back in the form of volunteering in my community. I hope to pursue a masters degree in Environmental Sciences and Policy.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank God for all of the blessings he has gifted me with throughout these four years. Also, Julie Bevins for always believing in me and encouraging me to take risks. As well as Bridget Avery, Joe Fox, Dana Hebread for helping me become a young professional. Dr. Flaherty for being such a great mentor and role model. Lastly, I would like to thank Gabrielle Fernandez for always making me laugh and being a great friend, my roommate Katie Sidor for helping me stick with my goals and laughing at my jokes!
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
It is great to be a Saint because we are small in number but mighty in community!
Adrien Yondo
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
High School: Catholic Central High School
Areas(s) of Study: Computer Information Systems with Business Administration minor
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
I got the opportunity to play volleyball, pursue the major I wanted, and stay close to home.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
My favorite thing about Aquinas is the campus - how beautiful it is as well as how small it is. My favorite memory is going to the National tournament for volleyball my freshman year.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
I was shaped by the community at Aquinas. I was able to create great relationships with faculty and students that have helped me grow into a more confident and able person overall.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
I hope to take my major and minor and find a career that allows me to use my knowledge of computer science and integrate it into either a corporate setting or an educational setting. I would love to teach kids someday, but in the meantime, I see myself working in an IT department.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank my parents for their continual support throughout my whole life as well as Coach Rick Schroder, Coach Ryan Campbell, Professor Richard Latimer, Professor Kevin Cantley, and Professor Mark O'Toole who have pushed me in the classroom and helped me gain confidence in my knowledge and who I am as a person.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
Being an AQ Saint goes beyond attending classes - it means using your experiences, knowledge, and support given to us to pursue your dreams and goals. Being a Saint is great because of the support system you gain from being here and seeing people truly care about your success and even your failures.
Jerome Williams
Hometown: East Saint Louis, Illinois
High School: Belleville East High School
Area(s) of Study: Dual Major Business Administration & Communications
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
I chose 绿帽淫妻 because I want to be a leader. Because of the small size of the institution, I felt I could explore leadership positions as early as my first year.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
My favorite memory would have to be going to Saint Slam my first year here.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
I've learned via school that hard effort, decisiveness, and tenacity may lead to chances I never thought existed. As an 绿帽淫妻 student, my education has taught me to search deep inside myself and push through mental barriers. Furthermore, education has influenced me to push myself in all I do.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
My ambitions after Aquinas include learning as much as I can before taking on a leadership role. I enjoy collaborating with people, and I feel that if given the opportunity, I might thrive as a leader. I'd enjoy the opportunity to have my own business leading a team and molding them into great employees.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank my family, who stuck by me and gave me an excellent all-around education and by providing me with a home full of friends and laughter, equipped me to face the world and all the setbacks that it involves. I also want to thank my coaches for giving me an opportunity and making Aquinas a home away from home.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
It's great to be a Saint because we Saints show unity. We have a pride that makes the average student want to come to school. It makes the school feel less like school and more of a fun place to be. You feel more like a part of your community. Even when you're long gone, the connections the Aquinas community has throughout the world is amazing. Once a Saint, always a Saint.
Maeve Sentner
Hometown: Venetia, Pennsylvania (essentially Pittsburgh)
High School: Complicated question - I attended two years (freshman and sophomore) at Winchester
Thurston in Pittsburgh. After my sophomore year, I moved to Los Angeles to train pre-professionally
in ballet at the Colburn Dance Academy. There, I attended high school online through
a school called Oak Crest Academy to work around my busy schedule.
Area(s) of Study: Business Administration and Sports Management; Minor: Marketing
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
It鈥檚 actually quite a funny story. I didn鈥檛 have much of a say in my decision to attend
Aquinas - my parents more so told me I would be going here (which I am forever grateful
for now). I moved to Grand Rapids to dance with the Grand Rapids Ballet, but I always
knew I wanted to receive a college education. After looking around at a few schools,
I couldn鈥檛 find the right fit. Ultimately through other connections, we found Aquinas.
My dad toured the school and told me I would love it and would thrive in the environment.
From there, the decision had been made. Aquinas was so willing to work around my professional
dancing schedule, and they truly made it easy to get the best of both worlds.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
It鈥檚 truly so hard to narrow it down to one favorite thing or memory about Aquinas. From the late night laughs with friends to the bonding moments of stress with classmates in the library, there are so many things - both big and small - that have greatly contributed to my time here. I really can鈥檛 just choose one. Every single thing has made my experience here what it is. From meeting people that would forever change my life, to attempting to play soccer with friends on the field, to hammocking in the trees, to Taco Tuesdays in St. Rose, to chaotic meetings in the Moose, and finally to homecoming and all the memories that I will never fully remember, each and every interaction has significantly influenced my time at AQ.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
Attending 绿帽淫妻 has completely changed who I am today. Every class, professor, and individual has influenced me in one form or another. I was fortunate to learn from amazing teachers who fueled my love for certain subject matters, thus shaping what I want my future to entail. Additionally, every person I met, whether our time together was brief or for the full duration of my time at AQ, has changed me for the better. Each interaction has helped me grow in numerous different ways, and I am beyond thankful for everything that I鈥檝e experienced, as it has made me who I am today.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
I have so many dreams and post-graduate aspirations that it's hard to list them all. In a perfect world, I would combine all of my passions and work for a company that is focused on helping individuals be their best and produce excellent work. Ideally, I would like to work with an athletic apparel company and create disruptive change. Many of my passions have to do with creating awareness on social issues, and I would love to play a part in developing changes to make the world somewhat of a more inclusive place.
In addition, I know my education is not complete. I do hope to go back to school later down the road to earn my Masters degree, whether that's in business or another field of my choosing. I love to learn, and I hope to continuously expand my knowledge, whether that's in school or the workplace.
On a more personal note, I simply hope that I will continue to become a better person each and every single day. In order to become my best self, I know my future will thus entail coaching young dancers, traveling, and creating fulfilling relationships that will last a lifetime.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
There are so many people I need to thank. I must begin with my parents. They not only are the main reason why I ultimately attended Aquinas, but they made everything possible. Their unwavering support made me believe that I could do anything I ever wanted to do. They鈥檝e seen me at both my best and my worst, and I forever owe them for picking me up from my lowest points and pushing me forward. Mom and Dad - you two never fail to amaze me and I am so glad I got you as parents. I wouldn鈥檛 be half the woman I am today without you.
I want to next thank my professors. There are so, so many of you that have changed my life. To Professor Molly Patterson - thank you for being the first teacher and mentor I had at Aquinas. You showed me how much the faculty cares about students as individuals. You opened my eyes and helped me realize all I could accomplish during my time at AQ. To Professor Kerri Orders - thank you for teaching in such an encouraging manner. Your advice - whether inside or outside of the classroom - has helped guide me into deciding my future endeavors. You are amazing, and I'm so grateful to have learned from you! Finally to Professor Duane Ambrose - thank you for the laughs and engaging students as much as possible at 9:00 in the morning. You never failed to teach in an entertaining manner, and I will most definitely miss the chaos. To all those listed and unlisted, thank you so much for playing a part in my journey. The lessons taught in the classroom helped shape me into the person I am outside of it.
The final people I must thank include my wonderful support team. These individuals, whether on AQ鈥檚 campus or off, have constantly had my back. To my twin brother Danny - thank you for the endless laughs and the constant support, whether that was looking over some of my work or life advice to get me through. To my 101/Baldwin boys - I am forever grateful for you kids. You all taught me so much, kept me grounded, and allowed my true self to come out. You guys are my people and I鈥檓 so glad God led me to you. Specifically Riley and Griff - you guys are my absolute favorites and I just wanted to share my appreciation for sticking with me even though I can be a lot. To my AQPB Executive Board - Bridget, Nick, Jaydin, and Elisabeth - thank you for creating so much joy out of the mundane, everyday life tasks. You four are the best friends a person could ever ask for. To Bailee and Logan - my ballerina besties who somehow crossed into my AQ path - you two know far too much and are now stuck with me forever. Thank you for never getting sick of me and for sticking by my side through it all. To all of my Steelcase people, specifically Peyton, Tiffany, and Robbie - thank you for teaching me numerous valuable lessons, whether they applied to life in general or how to be the best I can be in multiple different arenas of life. To Kenzie and Sircey - although neither of you ever made it to Michigan, you still knew everything about my experience inside and out. Thank you both for spending hours on the phone with me and lending your love and support in that way. There are so many people I鈥檝e not listed here, but if you鈥檙e reading this, know that I love you and am so grateful for the time we spent together. I appreciate each and every one of you more than you will ever realize.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
Being an AQ Saint is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. As a Saint, you find your people, are taught in an encouraging and enlightening manner, and simply create relationships that will last a lifetime. These past three years at Aquinas were some of the most influential, and I am thankful for each memory, lesson, and experience. Being an AQ Saint is great because it helps you transform into the amazing person you are meant to become.
Alexandrea (Lexi) Schaub
Hometown: Lake Leelanau, Michigan
High School: St. Mary Lake Leelanau High School
Area(s) of Study: Music Performance with an emphasis in Voice
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
One of my biggest priorities when applying for college was to go to a school where I could know my teachers and classmates intimately. I hoped for the support that could only arise from a teacher who really knew me and cared for my future. At Aquinas, this was absolutely the case. All my professors - past and present - undoubtedly wave and call out my name when we happen to cross paths on campus. I was also able to receive a diverse range of opportunities at Aquinas that I may not have had at a bigger school, like learning a secondary instrument.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
The Our Lady of Seat of Wisdom Chapel has hosted some of my favorite memories at Aquinas. Not only is the chapel so beautiful, with its large windows and resounding acoustics, but it was a place of sanctuary for me... literally. Many late, stressed-out nights I'd seek solitude in its dimly lit room; to sing hymns if no one was around or just to sit and think. It was also the place where I first talked to my soon-to-be husband, which is one of my favorite memories, period.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
My time at Aquinas has taught me foremost about responsibility; how to properly care for myself and my relationship with others in a balanced way. Like most people who come to college, I've had to learn to navigate the very tricky process of growing up and becoming independent. Fortunately, I was surrounded by people at Aquinas (particularly my professors, teammates, and classmates) who genuinely cared for me and helped me to figure out who I am and what I'm meant to do - career and otherwise. Whether this was through their example, friendship, prayers, or advice.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
After I leave Aquinas, I'll continue teaching private voice and piano lessons to my students at the Ada Music Conservatory, with hopes of having my own studio/conservatory one day. I am also aiming to receive my real estate license this summer. And last but not least, I want to continue performing as much as I can, wherever God leads me.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
Thank you dearly to my fianc茅 Chris - for ensuring that I was always fed and loved, to my family (Mom, Dad, Olivia, Isabella, Christopher, Emilia, Noah, Julianna, Ian, and little Leo) - for giving me so much joy, to my private lesson teachers (Barbara McCargar and Mary Hurd) - for nurturing my love of music, and to all my friends and professors who helped me grow in more ways than I can count.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
Well... who wouldn't love to be called a "Saint" on a regular basis?
Justin Lary
Hometown: Kentwood, Michigan
High School: East Kentwood High School
Area(s) of Study: Dual Business Administration & Accounting
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
I came to 绿帽淫妻 because I was offered by Coach Bertoia and given the opportunity to continue my basketball career. My older brother also attended Aquinas, so I already had some insight about the College's reputation beforehand.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
My favorite thing about Aquinas is that you can be involved in so many different activities. Since it's such a small campus, being involved in numerous activities will allow you to reach the vast majority of people on campus.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
My experience at Aquinas has shaped me into a more well-rounded individual - academically and socially. I value the relationships I've developed with my professors, coaches, faculty, and teammates. The community here at Aquinas has helped me grow as a leader, student, and athlete. As a result of that, I will forever cherish my experience here at 绿帽淫妻.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
In the fall, I will start full time in an accounting position at Plante Moran. Plante Moran is a regional CPA firm.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank the entire men's basketball coaching staff for giving me the
opportunity to be a Saint and teaching me what it means to be a leader! I would also
like to thank my family, friends, and professors. Without their constant push and
support, I wouldn't be where I am today. No one makes it through college alone, so
I'm glad that I had a great support system backing me.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
It's great to be a Saint because you become a part of a tight knit community that is inclusive and supporting. The network of Aquinas is always looking for ways to help future AQ Saints and that is special.
Elizabeth Price
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Michigan
High School: Catholic Central High School
Area(s) of Study: Early Childhood Education
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
After six years of working in early childhood classrooms post-high school graduation, I decided that I wanted to further my knowledge and professionalism in the field of early childhood. Because I worked for Grand Rapids Catholic Dioceses, I qualified for the Donnelly scholarship, which made it easier to go back to college.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
Honestly, the pure joy that I received when I walked through campus. I felt an honor every time I walked through the green or snowy paths from my car to class. Walking through campus was a reminder and 鈥渇eel-good moment鈥� knowing I was a day closer to receiving a degree and just doing the dang thing! Being surrounded by trees is exactly what my heart needs and I鈥檒l never forget studying at the outside picnic tables anytime the sun decided to peek out from the clouds.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
After being told by high school teachers, family members, and psychologists (written in an official document) that attending college would not be a fit for me and my learning disabilities. Aquinas has re-shaped and strengthened my courage and determination to conquer hard things, no matter what barriers are ahead. The professors and classmates of the education field were the village of people I needed to be successful and remain motivated.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
Well, my last class ended on December 31, 2021. Two weeks later, I packed my car with all of my belongings, loaded up my dog and headed to Estes Park, Colorado. I live and work here full time. I am a lead toddler teacher at Mountain Top Preschool. I鈥檓 looking forward to the opportunities for growth and advancement as well as the opportunity to use Rocky Mountain National Park as our playground and classroom!
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank Melanie Francis, the early childhood director at Holy Spirit who helped spark my passion for early childhood. My sister Jennifer Price, who helped me with all of the paperwork and FAFSA forms and was the hardball when I needed a reminder that I could do this. My advisors Elizabeth Jorgensen and Nkechy for being nothing but amazing, supportive and just so, so kind. Every professor in the education field, my parents, my roommate Renee and my boyfriend Kyle for the constant support, advice, love, and encouragement. And most importantly, thank you to my dog, Gus, for being my unofficial support dog during the last two years of my degree.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
Amazing educators are coming from Aquinas because the way the program is running is the future of education and teaching and for that, it鈥檚 a great day to be a saint!
Macayla Jones
Hometown: Holt, MI
High School: Holt High School
Area(s) of Study: Business/Communication dual major with a Spanish minor
What brought you to 绿帽淫妻?
I chose 绿帽淫妻 because I loved that Aquinas was a small, liberal arts school where I would be able to create close relationships with my peers and faculty on campus. I knew that whatever school I attended I didn't want to only be a number, and I wanted to know I could come to my professors with questions or for help in my classes. I automatically felt that sense of comfort when I stepped onto campus. I also loved how Aquinas was only a 10-minute drive to downtown GR, which was completely new to me coming from the Lansing area. I was excited to explore the city and see new things while making amazing memories.
What is your favorite thing or favorite memory about Aquinas?
My favorite memory at Aquinas is all of the memories I have created with my friends on campus. I am still very close to some of the girls I met during my freshman year orientation, and all of our college adventures have made this experience extremely memorable. From late-night movie nights to de-stress from classes, to fall photoshoots around campus when the leaves were changing colors, to exploring GR together, there's not a doubt in my mind the incredible friendships I've made at Aquinas will last long after I graduate.
How has your experience at Aquinas shaped you?
My experience at Aquinas has shaped me into becoming a more outgoing, empathetic individual, and understand even more that I'm in a constant state of growing and learning. I promised myself in college I would go out of my comfort zone more, and try meeting different types of people from various backgrounds. In my time at Aquinas, I was able to expand myself and learn through multiple roles including as a Diversity Assistant, Peer Tutor, Resident Assistant, and student worker in the Advantage Center. All of these opportunities have been gifts for growth, and I'm so thankful to Aquinas for giving me the stepping stools and courage to take on these roles. They have been extremely rewarding, and I know I will carry what I have learned with me for many years to come.
What do you hope to do after leaving Aquinas? What are your career goals?
Right now I am planning on working in either the Grand Rapids or Ann Arbor area for a few years gaining some work experience, and then attending graduate school in order to obtain my masters degree. I would like my future career to include using my business, communication, and Spanish background to aid communities including students and individuals that need support and resources and help them to succeed.
Is there anybody you would like to thank?
I would like to thank my family and boyfriend for their constant support of my personal and professional goals, and for being with me on this journey.
I would also like to thank all the friends I have made during my four years at AQ for making me feel at home and being a rock for me to lean on for support and all the fun memories.
Thank you to my professors and supervisors in my various roles I have had as well over the years for helping me become more confident in myself and my talents, and for pushing me to be the best version of myself that I can be. Special shout-outs to: Dana Hebreard, Dave Weinandy, Marcos Romero, Mark O'Toole and Mallory Miller.
In your words, why is it great to be an AQ Saint?
It is great to be an AQ Saint because there will always be a part of me that was changed and grew in a positive way from the memorable experiences gained and the supportive community of peers and professors that I encountered during my time at AQ. I know I will always have a home here.