Alumni Newsletter Archives - Hillsdale College

Northern Exposure: Spencer Stegenga’s Ventures in the Vineyard

For decades, northwestern Michigan has been a mecca for ski lovers, cherry lovers, and fall color seekers. In more recent years, the region has gained fame for another industry—winemaking. For 30 years, Spencer Stegenga, ’95, and his family have been at the forefront of this industry, uncorking the secrets of the vine for a growing national audience to enjoy.

Using Science for Justice

Crime is gruesome and prevalent. How can a Hillsdale education give you the support you need when you’re at the scene of a crime, and how can your Hillsdale experiences prepare you for what comes next back at the lab? Alumna Danielle Wilhelmsen walks us through a day in the life of a Forensic Scientist DNA Analyst.

The Commencement Daisy Chain Tradition

Commencement traditions come and go at Hillsdale as circumstances, facilities, and class sizes change through the years. One tradition—the Daisy Chain—has long been out of practice but was a popular and beloved part of Commencement in the first half of the 20th century.

Taking to the Azure Skies: How a Hillsdale Math Degree Jumpstarted a Career in Aerospace Engineering

Looking for a career in aerospace engineering? Find out how a Hillsdale Math Degree can land you a job at the world’s largest aerospace company.

Civil War Veteran Asher LaFleur: The “Bravest of the Brave”

LaFleur was a student at Hillsdale College when the Civil War broke out. Like so many of his fellow classmates, he traded his books for a military uniform and went to fight for the Union cause. In fact, during the Civil War, more than 400 Hillsdale men enlisted in the Union Army, a higher percentage than any other western non-military college.

Shedding Light on Dark Matter: Jamin Rager, ’13

Jamin Rager, ’13, knew since high school that he would major in physics and mathematics. At Hillsdale, he hit the ground running with his major classes.

Hillsdale Students Take to the Airwaves on Radio Free Hillsdale

WRFH Radio Free Hillsdale is much more than a small room tucked away in the Knorr Student Center, or a part of the College’s journalism program.

Their Time to Shine: Students Rally to Save the Clocktower

For nearly 150 years, Hillsdale College’s iconic clocktower has risen high above the surrounding countryside pointing to an azure sky, as beautifully stated in our alma mater, “White and Blue.” But did you know there was a time when our clocktower was in danger of being lost?

The Heartbeat of the Community: Jeremiah Hodshire Leads Hillsdale Hospital

In a year when health care and hospitals have dominated the national conversation, ’99 Alum Jeremiah “JJ” Hodshire’s love of the Hillsdale community has motivated him to work tirelessly to bring attention to the importance of rural hospitals.

Rourke Michael: The Value of Collaborative Introspection

While some attempt to overcome the stresses of college life by dedicating certain days to rest and pull away from campus bustle, others dive into their hobbies to regroup. For Hillsdale-bred quartet Rourke Michael, music is the best diversion, especially when it is enjoyed among friends.

Dunn in a Million: Hillsdale’s Founding Father Ransom Dunn

Professor. Preacher. President. Fundraiser. Perhaps no single person did more to establish Hillsdale College than Ransom Dunn, the “Grand Old Man” who wore many hats over the course of his five decades of service to the College. As we celebrate the 176th anniversary of Hillsdale’s founding this month, it’s fitting to take a look at one of Hillsdale’s most influential leaders, a man whose vision still guides the College today.

Ad Astra: Roasting on Common Grounds

If you had to drink only Maxwell House or Folgers for the rest of your life, I bet you’d just quit coffee altogether.
I asked this of Kristi Whalen, ’07, co-founder of Hillsdale’s newest, and only, specialty coffee roaster, Ad Astra. Her answer surprised me.