FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing, [email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is pleased to host Dr. Christopher Merrett, a leading authority on rural economic and community development, for a public lecture on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Kenneth J. Shouldice Library Learning Commons. This event is free and open to the public.

Dr. Merrett’s presentation, titled ‘Planning for Sustainable Community Economic Development in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula,’ will examine demographic and economic trends in the Upper Midwest, with a focus on the UP. It will address challenges like population decline, an aging workforce, and technological advancements, while highlighting opportunities for locally driven development through strategic visioning, entrepreneurship, and cooperative initiatives.

In addition to his public presentation, Dr. Merrett will visit economics classes at LSSU during his stay, offering students direct insight on the intersections of economic theory, environmental stewardship, and regional development.

As Dean for Innovation and Economic Development at Western Illinois University and Executive Director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, Dr. Merrett has dedicated his career to advancing rural communities. He has served on the Illinois Governor’s Rural Affairs Council for two decades and currently contributes to the Farm Equity and Food Insecurity Advisory Council for Illinois, as well as the National Science Foundation’s Engineering Research Visioning Alliance for Rural Resiliency. In 2018-19, he was a member of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s transition team. Dr. Merrett has authored or co-authored over 180 publications and has been cited by media outlets more than 400 times (including government, mainstream, and international sources). A native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and a 1986 graduate of LSSU, Dr. Merrett will be on campus to receive the university’s Kenneth J. Shouldice Professional Achievement Award.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing, [email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) will honor four distinguished contributors to Laker Athletics by inducting them into the Athletics Hall of Fame during Great Lake State Weekend 2025. The 2025 class represents decades of excellence and achievement across multiple sports.

This year’s inductees are:
– Kord Cernich – Men’s Hockey (1986-90)
– Jerry Cheynet – Men’s Wrestling Coach (1969-74)
– Lee Ann (Huffman) Wise – Women’s Basketball (1979-83)
– 1972-73 LSSU Wrestling Team – Undefeated Season, GLIAC Champions

The Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held alongside the Alumni Awards at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025, in the Walker Cisler Center. Inductees will also be recognized during the first intermission of the LSSU men’s hockey game against Bowling Green later that evening.

Tickets for the induction ceremony are expected to sell out and must be purchased in advance. They are available online at the LSSU Alumni website. Tickets will not be available at the door.

Great Lake State Weekend offer something for everyone, from student-focused events like Lake State After Hours to community favorites such as the Battle of the Bands. A complete schedule and more information can be found on the LSSU Alumni Relations website.

About the Inductees
Kord Cernich – A defensive cornerstone of LSSU’s first NCAA national championship hockey team in 1988, Cernich was an All-American and All-CCHA selection. He set an NCAA record with 175 consecutive games played. After a professional career in North America and Europe, he returned to Alaska, where he built a successful career in electrical contracting.

Jerry Cheynet – As head coach from 1969 to 1974, Cheynet led LSSU wrestling to national prominence, including a perfect 13-0 season in 1972–73. His teams won three consecutive NAIA District 23 Championships, produced NCAA All-Americans, and laid the foundation for decades of wrestling success.

Lee Ann (Huffman) Wise – One of the top playmakers in Laker women’s basketball history, Wise holds the program’s all-time and single-season assist records. She went on to a successful 30-year career in education, serving as principal and coach, earning recognition at both the conference and state levels.

1972–73 Wrestling Team – One of the greatest teams in Laker history, this squad went undefeated, captured the GLIAC Championship, and placed 11th at the NAIA National Championships. Led by national champion Jim Fallis, the team remains a benchmark of athletic excellence at LSSU.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing, [email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) will recognize three distinguished alumni during the annual Alumni Awards Ceremony at Great Lake State Weekend on October 25, 2025. The honorees exemplify the university’s commitment to excellence, leadership, and service.The Alumni Awards Ceremony and Hall of Fame Inductions are scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. in the Walker Cisler Center. Tickets are required and expected to sell out. Advance purchase is strongly encouraged as tickets will not be sold at the door. Tickets are available online at the LSSU Alumni Relations website.

Weekend Highlights
Great Lake State Weekend is an annual campus-wide celebration that brings the LSSU community, alumni, and friends together for a variety of events. This year’s festivities include Laker Hockey games against Bowling Green, campus open houses, and a litany of family-friendly activities. The weekend serves as a testament to the enduring bond between theuniversity and its alumni. In addition to alumni and family events, Great Lake State Weekend also features activities designed for current students and community members. A full schedule and more information is available on the LSSU Alumni Relations website.

About the Honorees
Dr. Richard Gray, class of 1991, will receive the Outstanding Alumnus Award. As CEO of Mayo Clinic Arizona and an internationally recognized surgical oncologist, Dr. Gray has made significant contribution to the medical field. His leadership at one of the nation’s top medical centers underscores the impact of LSSU alumni in healthcare.

Marisa Berlinger, class of 2013, will receive the Paul E. Ripley Award for Young Alumni. As an attorney with Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP in Seattle, Berlinger has demonstrated a strong commitment to public interest litigation. She is also the founder of a scholarship program and a national award finalist for her contribution to the legal profession.

Dr. Christopher Merrett, class of 1986, will be honored with the Kenneth J. Shouldice Professional Achievement Award. Serving as Dean for Innovation and Economic Development and Director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, Dr. Merrett is a national leader in rural economic policy. His work has influenced economic development strategies across the country.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing, [email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. –Lake Superior State University (LSSU) has been selected as one of 14 Michigan institutions to participate in the inaugural Gateway Course Redesign Faculty Academy, an 18-month initiative by the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) in collaboration with Almy Education and Sova.

The academy aims to support colleges and universities in rethinking and restructuring key gateway courses, such as introductory Math, English, and Science classes, to remove barriers, increase student achievement, and improve outcomes. Participating schools receive $10,000 in implementation funding to support course redesign efforts.

LSSU’s participation reflects its commitment to advancing student success, particularly for first-
generation students.

“We were drawn to the Gateway Course Redesign Academy because it’s not just about redesigning a math course, but it’s about bringing a whole cross-campus team together to rethink
placement, courses, and processes in a way that centers students,” said Jennifer Gorman, assistant professor of mathematics at LSSU. “With so many of our students being first-
generation, this work matters a lot to us. The Academy’s support will help us build on the discussions we’ve already been having and move forward with this important work.”

The Gateway Course Redesign Faculty Academy is based on national research and best practices, designed for faculty, by faculty. Through technical assistance, tailored support, and cross-institutional collaboration, the academy equips educators to redesign courses with equity and effectiveness in mind.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing, [email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) senior Tayla Brasier, of Bathurst, Australia, has been awarded the $2,500 Centennial Scholarship by Delta Mu Delta, an international honor society for business students.

Brasier is among 51 students nationwide to receive this scholarship, which recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and service. Delta Mu Delta invites students in the top 20% of their classes for membership, and a scholarship competition is held among inducted members from various chapters.

Brasier, a Bachelor of Business Administration student majoring in marketing, maintains a 3.93 GPA and has demonstrated leadership and service to both the institution and community. She’s also a student-athlete at LSSU.

“It’s a great society,” said Tayla, “one I would definitely recommend to anyone.”

Delta Mu Delta offers free mentoring programs four times a year, featuring guest speakers and one-on-one meetings with industry leaders. These activities provide members with opportunities to develop their interests, careers, and professional networks.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Sophie Gibbs, Kinesiology Club President, [email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – The Lake Superior State University Kinesiology Club will host the annual Great Lake State Weekend (GLSW) 5K Fun Run/Walk on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 9 a.m., starting and ending at the Victory Bell outside the Norris Center.

The event invites participants of all ages and fitness levels to engage in a morning of physical activity and community building. The 5K course traverses LSSU campus, offering scenic views and a supportive atmosphere for runners and walkers alike.

Registration is $25 for those who pre-register and $30 for day-of registration. Chip timing provided by Yooper Running Company. Door prizes will be given out following the event, with medals awarded for Podium finishers.

Proceeds will support Kinesiology Club initiatives, including the 3v3 Basketball Tournament, professional conference attendance, and the annual Hat and Mitten Holiday Drive.

Event Details:
– What: GLSW 5K Fun Run/Walk
– When: Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025, at 9 a.m.
– Where: Victory Bell, Norris Center, Lake Superior State University
– Registration: Click Here

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 12, 2025
Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing
[email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) held its annual 9/11 Memorial Ceremony Thursday morning at 9 a.m. on Pledge Commons. Hosted in the center of campus, this ceremony honors the victims and heroes of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

This event brought students, faculty, staff, and community members together to reflect and recognize the bravery exemplified by so many. LSSU President Dr. David Travis addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and unity.

“It is important to come together with our community to honor the bravery of our veterans and first responders. Lake Superior State University has a strong tradition of training first responders. We are very proud of those who have served and continue to serve our local communities,” Dr. Travis said.

Dr. Jamie Zamjahn, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success, added perspective on the ceremony’s importance for students and the community.

“As we reflect on this day, we remember the power of community. Gathering together not only honors the past, but reinforces our values of service, resiliency, and most of all, unity,” said Dr. Zamjahn

The ceremony featured participation from LSSU’s fire science and public safety students, as well as local law enforcement and emergency medical personnel. Campus walkways were lined with American flags, commemorating the day and symbolizing those lost, and a presentation of wreathes honored the impact locations.

For those unable to attend the ceremony, LSSU encouraged observing of a moment of silence. LSSU has a longstanding tradition of hosting this memorial ceremony, highlighting a commitment to honoring those impacted by this tragedy.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: September 4, 2025
Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing
[email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) has renewed and expanded its longstanding tuition agreement with the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes, continuing a collaboration that began in 2009. The agreement encourages Coast Guard active-duty personnel, reserve members, civilian employees, and their spouses and dependents to pursue higher education at LSSU by significantly lowering the cost of study.

For undergraduate programs, participants continue to pay $250 per credit hour, aligning with the allowable amount offered by the Coast Guard’s tuition assistance program. This represents more than half off LSSU’s standard tuition rate. Building on this success, the 2025-2026 agreement now extends benefits to graduate studies, making advanced degrees more affordable and accessible to Coast Guard members seeking to further their education and careers.

“Lake Superior State University is proud to honor and expand our partnership with the United States Coast Guard,” said LSSU President Dr. David Travis. “This initiative reflects our mission to serve the Great Lakes region by investing in the people who protect it. Adding a graduate tuition rate strengthens our commitment to education, career advancement, and the well-being of Coast Guard families.”

The University also welcomes Captain James Bendle as Commander of U.S. Coast Guard Sector Northern Great Lakes, which oversees operations across Lake Superior, the St. Mary’s River, northern Lake Michigan, and northern Lake Huron, covering 1,850 miles of shoreline and 560 miles of international maritime border with Canada. With more than 750 personnel, 23 boats, and multiple mission stations, Sector NGL plays a vital role in the safety and security of the Great Lakes region.

“This tuition agreement is a tremendous resource for our service members and their families,” said Captain Bendle, “It allows them to pursue personal and professional growth while continuing their service to the nation. We value our strong relationship with Lake Superior State University and look forward to building upon this partnership.”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 27, 2025       
Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing
[email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Lake Superior State University’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) is now home to a stunning sturgeon sculpture, created and donated by local artist Diane Adamo. “You could probably say they’re my favorite fish,” said Adamo, a long-time admirer of the species.

The artwork, created from wood and stained glass, was a winter project for Adamo. A great appreciation for sturgeon, or “living dinosaurs,” was at the heart of this piece. When asked why the center, Diane responded, “I wanted to donate it to a place that would really appreciate it. That’s what led me to CFRE.”

Prominently on display right above the live sturgeon tank, the sculpture has quickly become a point of interest for staff, students, and visitors alike. The intricate design and materials highlight the natural beauty of sturgeon, a species CFRE researchers and students study extensively in their work.

“We are absolutely honored to receive this generous donation and to showcase it at CFRE,” said Ashley Moerke, Executive Director of CFRE. “Diane’s donation reminds us that the work we do matters to many in our community, and we are grateful for her support of our important mission.”

The Center for Freshwater Research and Education invites the community to visit and view the sculpture during its regular hours.

For more information, please visit: https://www.lssu.edu/centers/cfre/overview/.

The Lake Superior State University Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) is dedicated to protecting and restoring freshwater resources through research, education, and community engagement. CFRE provides hands-on learning and networking experiences for students, and fosters partnerships to ensure the health of freshwater ecosystems in the Great Lakes region and beyond.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 26, 2025       
Contact: Connor Tetzlaff, Assistant Director of University Marketing
[email protected]

SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – Undergraduate researchers at Lake Superior State University (LSSU) are on the front lines of groundbreaking environmental research that could change how scientists and decision-makers respond to oil spills in freshwater systems. At LSSU’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE), students are conducting one of the first studies to replicate real oil spill conditions in large ‘mesocosms,’ controlled environments that replicate freshwater wetlands found throughout the Great Lakes region.  

In these mesocosms, fish, aquatic invertebrates, sediments, and plants are exposed to varying levels of oil to evaluate how different components of the ecosystem respond. The findings help identify the most vulnerable parts of the Great Lakes food web, from zooplankton to fish, and inform more targeted and effective oil spill response strategies. 

The project is part of a multi-institutional, international collaboration that includes Algoma University, University of Windsor, and the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise, in addition to LSSU. Funded by Natural Resources Canada’s Multi-Partner Research Initiative, the research is providing LSSU students with invaluable, hands-on scientific experience. 

One of these students, Kennedi Johnson, has been working closely with Dr. Michael Twiss of Algoma University to examine how phytoplankton communities change after oil exposure. “Being a part of this research project has been an incredible experience,” Johnson said. “It’s exciting to know that I’m contributing to something that has real-world importance, especially in a region like the Great Lakes, which are such a vital water resource. This project has shown me that I’m on the right path and made me even more excited for the career I’m working towards.”

Faculty and collaborators echo the importance of this work: 

“We know oil spills are a real risk in the Great Lakes, but we still have a lot to learn about how they affect freshwater food webs. This project is helping fill that gap, and our students are driving it forward.” – Cecilia Heuvel, Post-Doctoral Research Associate, CFRE

“Shared waters require shared resources. This partnership and support from Natural Resources Canada ensure we meet our collective responsibility to protect this crucial ecosystem.” – Dr. Michael Twiss, Algoma University

“The Great Lakes are arguably the most important natural resource on the continent. Binational cooperation like this is essential for their long-term stewardship.” – Dr. Mike McKay, University of Windsor 

“The multidisciplinary nature of this project is providing amazing opportunities for our students. It’s exciting to see them building their skills and professional networks in ways that will serve them well beyond graduation.” – Dr. Kevin Kapuscinski, CFRE

This work does much more than just teach LSSU students about research. It gives them a real opportunity to actively shape the future of freshwater protection. The data collected from this study will contribute to stronger, research-backed oil spill response plans, ensuring the Great Lakes will remain a resilient and thriving ecosystem for generations to come.