Adrian, MI – Siena Heights University announced its 2020 Alumni Award winners. This year’s recipients will be honored October 2nd during Homecoming Weekend.
The recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Award is Jere Righter (class of 1995) of Adrian, Mich. The longtime artistic director of the Croswell Opera House in Adrian, Righter has overseen the rebirth and renaissance of Michigan’s oldest theater and helped in the revival of downtown Adrian. The Outstanding Alumni Award recognizes outstanding professional achievements and/or volunteer contributions to promote Siena positively to the community, demonstrate strong leadership characteristics and serve as significant role models for others.
Receiving the Sister Ann Joachim Award is Joseph Williams (class of 1988), of Adrian, Mich. Williams is the Lenawee Market President at Old National Bank. He is the past recipient of the Lenawee Leadership and Stubnitz awards and has been involved in numerous community organizations, including the Lenawee Community Foundation and the Kiwanis Club. The Sister Ann Joachim Award recognizes significant contributions to the University and/or community through activities that demonstrate strong leadership and the capacity to confront issues head on while maintaining the image and spirit of Siena Heights University.
The Saint Dominic Award winner is Damon Sloan (class of 2007) of Joliet, Ill. He is the vice president of Student and Alumni Affairs at the University of St. Francis in Joliet, Ill. The Saint Dominic Award recognizes commitment to Christian education in family, school or community.
The Recent Graduate Award winner is Ryan Bernard Tymensky (class of 2010) of West Hollywood, Calif. Tymensky is employed at Telsey + Company, one of the top casting companies in the nation, and has casted for successful television shows such as “This Is Us,” “Grease Live” and “Perfect Harmony.” The Recent Graduate Award recognizes alumni who have graduated within the past 10 years, and whose professional achievement, community involvement and/or civic commitment demonstrate dedication to Christian values and the spirit of Siena Heights University.
The Honorary Alumni Award winner is Sandy Vanderlaan of Deerfield, Mich. Vanderlaan has worked for the university’s food service, currently Chartwells, for more than 35 years and has been a favorite of SHU students, faculty and staff for her attitude and exemplary customer service. The Honorary Alumni Award recognizes non-alumni of Siena Heights who demonstrate exceptional commitment to and support for the mission and spirit of the University.
Siena Heights University is a Catholic university founded and sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. Siena Heights is a coeducational North Central accredited institution founded in the liberal arts tradition, offering associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees. The university is headquartered in Adrian, Mich., with degree completion centers in Dearborn, Southfield, Benton Harbor, Monroe, Battle Creek, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Jackson and Online.
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*All Media courtesy of Siena Height University*