Contact: Andrew Rubinstein, Annual Fund And Athletic Development Director, LSSU Office of Advancement, [email protected], (906) 635-6219

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI)  – In a significant effort to strengthen the connection between Lake Superior State University (LSSU) and the Sault Ste. Marie community, LSSU President Dr. David Travis has announced the creation of the Campus and Community Partnership Fund with an annual personal gift of $10,000. This fund is designed to support collaborative projects that strengthen the bond between the university and the city.

The first allocation of the fund is dedicated to a joint effort between LSSU and the City of Sault Ste. Marie to hang LSSU flags throughout the downtown area from late July through October. As the flags are raised around town, they symbolize the unity and shared spirit between the campus and the community. They stand as a visible reminder of the ongoing partnership and mutual support that define the relationship between the university and the city.

“The Campus and Community Partnership Fund is a testament to our commitment to fostering close relationships with our community partners,” said Dr. David Travis. “By displaying LSSU flags throughout the Soo, we hope to celebrate our shared identity and cultivate a sense of pride and belonging among residents and students.”

A joint committee of representatives from LSSU and the Sault Ste. Marie’s community will oversee the fund, identifying and recommending future projects. This collaborative approach will ensure that the fund’s initiatives effectively engage and benefit both the university and the local community.

“The City of Sault Ste. Marie truly values our relationship with Lake Superior State University, and we thank Dr. Travis for his generosity,” said Mayor Don Gerrie. “We look forward to continued collaboration”.

To further expand the impact of this initiative, LSSU invites alumni, local businesses, and community members to contribute to the Campus and Community Partnership Fund. Donations will enable the development of additional projects that promote collaboration and strengthen the bond between the university and the city. Those interested in donating can visit the LSSU website at  lssu.edu/give or contact the LSSU Office of Advancement for more information.

For more information about the Campus and Community Partnership Fund or to get involved in upcoming projects, please contact Andrew Rubinstein in the LSSU Office of Advancement at [email protected] or (906) 635-6219.

Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) — Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is pleased to announce the investiture of Dr. David Travis as its 11th President. The ceremony, held at the university’s Arts Center on August 20, 2024, began with an introduction by Dr. Kimberly Muller, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. The ceremony featured the formal installation of Dr. Travis, conducted by Tim Lukenda, Chair of the Board of Trustees. This significant act marked a pivotal step in the university’s progress and future direction, underscoring the new leadership’s dedication to academic excellence and community engagement.

Lukenda remarked on the significance of the occasion, stating, “Today represents a seminal moment for Lake Superior State University. Dr. Travis brings a wealth of experience and a forward-thinking vision to our institution. His unwavering commitment to academic excellence and community engagement aligns perfectly with LSSU’s core values. We are confident that under his leadership, the university will advance to new levels of achievement and prominence.”

Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) – Lake Superior State University is proud to announce the renewal of the SEWER grant for fiscal year 2025, reaffirming our commitment to advancing wastewater epidemiology and disease surveillance in the Eastern Upper Peninsula (EUP).

Led by Principal Investigators Benjamin Southwell, Derek Wright, and Thu Nguyen, this vital initiative has received $1,033,439 in funding from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) for the period of October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.

The SEWER Network is a statewide network that monitors communicable diseases including Covid-19, Norovirus, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). As part of this program, LSSU manages disease surveillance in Chippewa, Luce, Mackinac, Alger, and Schoolcraft Counties. Through strategic partnerships with public health agencies including Chippewa County Health Department, LMAS District Health Department, and Bay Mills Indian Community, this collaborative endeavor provides valuable data to protect community health in the EUP.

“This grant renewal underscores our collective dedication to safeguarding public health through innovative approaches,” said Dr. Steven Johnson, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at LSSU. “By analyzing wastewater samples from 16 locations on a weekly basis, we gain invaluable insights into the spread and prevalence of infectious diseases, empowering decision-makers to implement targeted interventions and mitigate risks effectively.”

The $1,033,439 grant allocation supports the operation of the LSSU Environmental Molecular Biology Lab and sustains essential personnel, including two full-time staff members, Dr. Michelle Jarvie and Deidre Furlich, along with 4-6 student technicians annually. With a project total of $4.37 million, this funding enables continuous research and data analysis crucial for informed public health policies.

Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Kimberly Muller noted that over the course of this project, twenty-five LSSU students have had the opportunity to work with faculty and other grant-supported scientists. These types of engaging real-world projects bridge the gap between theory and practice, offering invaluable hands-on experiences.

Project lead investigator Benjamin Southwell, Associate Professor in the School of Chemistry, Environmental, and Geosciences commented, “We are grateful to the State of Michigan and the Department of Health and Human Services for continuing to fund this project. We are also grateful for the ongoing support of the LSSU administration, especially the efforts of Dean Johnson, whose support was essential to the establishment of the Environmental Molecular Biology Lab.”

LSSU President Dr. David Travis highlighted the importance of this funding to the University’s research efforts and the institution’s efforts to serve the regional community. “Lake Superior State University is appreciative of the State of Michigan’s continued investment in the expertise of our faculty. A grant renewal of this magnitude indicates a high level of satisfaction regarding the work done to this point. The continuation of this support furthers our commitment to serving the Sault Ste. Marie community and surrounding areas. This project provides important health-related information for this area.”

Looking ahead, Lake Superior State University remains steadfast in its dedication to expanding the SEWER initiative’s impact beyond the Eastern Upper Peninsula. As we move forward, we are committed to fostering new collaborations and leveraging cutting-edge research to enhance public health outcomes statewide.

Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) proudly announces the successful completion of the first cohort of its Space Certificate Program. Designed to equip students with practical skills for careers in the space economy, this innovative program offers an excellent opportunity for undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience in space operations, mission planning, and satellite communications. Following the success of the inaugural group, LSSU encourages new students to apply for the fall session.

“Our certificate program was developed in collaboration with regional and state economic development leadership in consultation with leaders in the space operations industry,” explained Dr. Kimberly Muller, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs.  “It is uniquely designed to train technicians at the undergraduate level, where a majority of programs are only offered as part of graduate programs.”

Hands-On Experience and Real-world Applications

In its first year, the program has already achieved significant milestones. Students utilized the Homestead Mission Control Center, a public-private satellite ground station just south of campus, to execute real-world laboratories with industry-standard software packages for mission planning and modeling/simulations.

Dr. BT Cesul, Adjunct Professor of the Space Operations Certificate Program at LSSU, shares “We want to make the LSSU Space Operations Certificate Program a useful addition to the claim that Michigan is the ‘Schoolhouse for Space’. This program provides capability in a needed niche of the space economy—space operators will continuously be needed to ensure that all those satellites designed actually get to space and work as intended for their user base.”

Students in the inaugural cohort have already reaped the benefits of this hands-on, immersive learning environment. Bethany Roberts, an engineering graduate, shared her experience, “I really enjoyed the Satellite Communications lab. Working as the Mission Operations Center commander was a thrilling and educational experience, especially when we successfully communicated with real orbiting satellites. This program has significantly bolstered my resume and prepared me for future opportunities in the aerospace industry.”

Madeleine Whip emphasized the program’s impact on her career goals, “This program has been a transformative journey, significantly impacting both my educational and career aspirations. The hands-on projects and expert guest lectures provided me with invaluable insights and skills, making me confident in pursuing a career in the space industry.”

Riley Sponseller highlighted the hands-on nature of the program, “The most memorable project for me was our mission operation simulation lab. We got to go out to the Homestead Ground Station and use real space industry-grade equipment to simulate a satellite operation mission. All of us assumed various roles for the mission and had to work together to operate the satellite and resolve any issues that were thrown at us. It was a great hands-on experience.”

Designed to be Accessible and Flexible 

The LSSU Space Certificate Program is open to students from diverse technical backgrounds, including robotics engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. The program’s compact one-year structure, combined with both in-person and remote lectures, offers flexibility for students balancing other commitments.

LSSU is committed to continuous improvement of the Space Certificate Program. Plans for the next cohort include enhancing antenna capabilities at the Homestead site, using a research-grade telescope for the satellite tracking lab, and adding complexity to the mission modeling lab. The program will maintain strong ties with industry experts and U.S. Space Force personnel to enrich student learning and career prospects.

The program spans two semesters, with one course each semester, combining classroom lectures with extensive field laboratory sessions, modeled on the proven structure of LSSU’s other certificate programs.

For more information about the LSSU Space Certificate Program and how to apply, visit LSSU’s  Space Mission And Operations Certificate website.

Contact: Dr. Ashley Moerke, Ph.D., Dean, College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education, Executive Director, Center for Freshwater Research and Education, Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2153

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI)  –  Lake Superior State University (LSSU) and its collaborative partners are commemorating a significant achievement in their shared mission to protect the Great Lakes. The recent formation of the International Consortium of Oil Research – Our Waters of the North (ICOR-OWN) between US and Canadian partners, along with the commissioning of the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise, hosted at LSSU’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE), serves as a testament to the power of cross-border collaboration. This event underscores both national and international partnerships’ critical role in preserving and protecting freshwater resources.

Strengthening Partnerships for Research and Innovation

Earlier this year, LSSU secured a $3.87 million grant from the Government of Canada, supporting the International Consortium on Oil Research for Our Waters of the North (ICOR-OWN). This collaboration unites 12 organizations and 24 scientists from both the United States and Canada, with LSSU’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) and Algoma University as lead partners. The funding, part of Canada’s Multi-Partner Research Initiative (MPRI) under the Oceans Protection Plan (OPP), aims to advance scientific knowledge and develop innovative oil spill response technologies. Additionally, LSSU was awarded funding from the US Coast Guard to leverage MPRI efforts and build research and response capacity along the shores of the St. Marys River. The collective funds are supporting enhanced infrastructure at LSSU’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education, including a new annex building that will house an experimental wave tank and an outdoor experimental mesocosm facility, both used for oil spill research.

Key Research Projects Under ICOR-OWN

1. Research on Oil Fate in Freshwater Ecosystems: In partnership with the US Geological Survey, Memorial University, and the US Coast Guard, this project focuses on understanding the behavior and transport of oil, particularly diluted bitumen, in freshwater ecosystems.

1. Oil Spill Detection and Monitoring Technologies: Collaborating with Algoma University, University of Windsor, NOAA, Limnotech, and the University of Michigan, this project aims to develop advanced technologies for detecting and monitoring oil spills in freshwater and ice environments, including innovative drone and autonomous underwater vehicle systems.

1. Ecological Effects of Oil Spills in Cold-Climate Ecosystems: In partnership with Algoma University and the University of Windsor, this research examines the ecological impacts of oil spills and bioremediation strategies in the cold-climate coastal wetlands of the Laurentian Great Lakes.

Celebrating Cross-Border Collaboration

The official commissioning of the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise (GLCOE) held at LSSU’s CFRE on May 10th marked a historic commitment by the US Coast Guard to Great Lakes stewardship. The GLCOE, unique within the Coast Guard, is a non-operational body with a legislative mandate to advance freshwater and icy water oil spill response capabilities through innovative research, equipment acquisition, and local responder training. The commissioning of the GLCOE also highlighted the importance of international partnerships to address environmental issues on shared US-Canadian waters. Senator Gary Peters of Michigan, participating virtually, alongside LSSU’s Interim President Dr. Lynn Gillette and U.S. Coast Guard Captain Justin Peters, underscored the mission of preserving and protecting freshwater resources. Dr. Ken Lee, Executive Director of the Canadian Centre for Offshore Oil, Gas and Energy Research,  also was presented with the inaugural Senator Gary Peters Award for Innovation in Great Lakes Research in recognition of his leadership and innovation in oil spill science.

Leadership Perspectives

LSSU Interim President Lynn Gillette expressed excitement about the international collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to be partners on these initiatives alongside our US and Canadian partners, including the US Coast Guard and Algoma University. This collaboration highlights LSSU’s growing leadership in freshwater science and creates numerous opportunities for our students to engage in real-world research that directly contributes to Great Lakes conservation.”

Dr. Ashley Moerke, Dean of the College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education at LSSU and LSSU lead of the International Collaboration on Oil Research emphasized the significance of the partnership, noting, “ICOR-OWN leverages our unique location at the nexus of the upper Great Lakes and the expertise of our US and international partners to build scientific capacity and ensure the best available science guides our response to oil spills in cold, freshwater environments.”

The Importance of Partnerships

Collaborative efforts such as ICOR-OWN and the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise play a crucial role in addressing complex environmental challenges. By uniting diverse perspectives, resources, and expertise, these partnerships enable comprehensive research, innovative solutions, and effective responses to environmental threats. In today’s interconnected world, where environmental issues transcend national boundaries, partnerships foster a collective approach to conservation. They amplify the impact of individual efforts and promote the shared goal of protecting our planet’s precious ecosystems.

Lake Superior State University exemplifies this dedication to environmental conservation, scientific progress, and cooperative endeavors aimed at safeguarding critical water ecosystems for future generations. The commissioning of the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise at LSSU’s CFRE represents a significant investment in oil spill research, further strengthening these vital cross-border partnerships. As collaborative efforts between U.S. and Canadian institutions continue to evolve, the Great Lakes will benefit from enhanced protection and innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

To learn more about these collaborative efforts, please visit https://www.lssu.edu/centers/cfre/

Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI)  — Lake Superior State University proudly celebrated the outstanding academic accomplishments of its graduating class during the 62nd annual Commencement Ceremony, held on May 4, 2024.

The ceremony, which brought together graduates, their families, and guests, honored students from fall 2023, winter 2023-24, spring 2024, and summer 2024, serving as a testament to their unwavering dedication and perseverance throughout their academic journeys.

The event commenced with a grand procession featuring faculty, Golden Graduates, and administrators, as they cheered on the entering graduates, accompanied by traditional music performed by the Duncan Pipes and Drums of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

Dr. Lynn G. Gillette, Interim President of LSSU, warmly welcomed the audience with opening remarks, setting the stage for an inspiring and memorable ceremony.

The graduating class was represented by Emilee Nicole McDaniel, who delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of her fellow graduates. McDaniel, a Biology major from Manistique, Michigan, reflected on her academic journey and expressed gratitude to her mentors, peers, and family for their support.

Dr. Kimberly O. Muller, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, announced the recipient of the Distinguished Teaching Award, Dr. R. Adam Mosey, recognizing his excellence in teaching at LSSU.

A notable highlight of the ceremony was the address by Claude H. (Bud) Denker III, President of Penske Corporation and LSSU alumnus. Denker III shared insights from his career and spoke about the importance of perseverance, support, time, and kindness.

In a gesture to complement his words, he presented each graduate with a Mega Millions Powerball ticket, symbolizing his encouragement for their future endeavors. He emphasized the value of perseverance alongside the occasional stroke of luck.

The ceremony concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Gillette, followed by a recessional featuring a traditional “Honor Song” performed by Aabizii, Native American Drummers, symbolizing the unity and resilience of the LSSU community.

Lake Superior State University extends its heartfelt congratulations to all graduates and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.

Contact: [email protected]

Source: Michigan.gov
https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2024/05/02/governor-whitmer-makes-appointments-to-lake-superior-state-university

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments of Whitney Gravelle and Kevin Cooper to the Lake Superior State University Board of Trustees.

“Today, I am proud to appoint Whitney Gravelle and Kevin Cooper to the LSSU Board,” said Governor Whitmer. “They are both dedicated members of the community and bring years of diverse experience to their new roles. I am confident they will serve the students, faculty, and staff well and continue making higher education in Michigan more accessible and affordable.”

Whitney Gravelle, of Brimley, is the President of the Executive Council of the Bay Mills Indian Community. Prior to public office, she was the Chief Judge of the Bay Mills Tribal Court. President Gravelle has also served as an Honors Clerk for the United States Department of Justice in the Indian Resource Section, as well as in-house council within Bay Mills Indian Community. She holds a Bachelor of Art in social science and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University College of Law. She has been appointed previously as a member of the Michigan Women’s Commission and currently serves as the Chairperson of the Bay Mills Community College Board of Regents. Bay Mills Community College and LSSU work together closely to support students in the Sault region and beyond.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed to the Lake Superior State University Board of Trustees,” said Gravelle. “Sault Ste. Marie and the surrounding area has a long and rich history with both Bay Mills Indian Community and the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians. I am committed to contributing my expertise and passion to help all succeed in their pursuit of education, as well as bridge communities, enhance educational policies, and promote inclusivity and respect across all levels of academic engagement that actively includes and represents indigenous perspectives and leadership in higher education.”

Whitney Gravelle is appointed to a term commencing on May 2, 2024, and expiring on January 27, 2032. She replaces Thomas Bailey, whose term has expired.

Kevin Cooper, of Sault Sainte Marie, is the owner of Cooper Dental and a lifelong resident of the Sault region. Cooper currently serves on the Board of Directors of Old Mission Bank. As a part of his dentistry practice, he serves the Chippewa County Health Department. Cooper holds a Bachelor of Science in biology and chemistry from Lake Superior State University and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Michigan. Cooper is a dedicated alumnus, previously serving as chair of both the Lake Superior State University Foundation Board of Directors and the Lake Superior State University Alumni Foundation.

“I am so honored to have been selected to serve on Lake Superior State University Board of Trustees,” said Cooper. “Lake Superior has played a significant role in my life and the Cooper family for three generations from the Soo Tech branch of MTU to present day. I look forward to working with the administration, fellow board members faculty staff, and local residence to make Lake Superior State University the best University it can be, I’d like to thank Governor Whitmer for selecting me to serve on the board.”

Kevin Cooper is appointed to a term commencing on May 2, 2024, and expiring on January 27, 2032. He replaces Randy Pingatore, whose term has expired.

The Lake Superior State University Board of Trustees is the governing body of Lake Superior State University. The board is granted the power of control and direction of all expenditures from the university’s funds.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689

Chris Gomez, Automation Engineer at AMT – Transfer from NMC and graduated from LSSU

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI)  — Lake Superior State University’s School of Engineering and Technology proudly announces the establishment of new articulation agreements with Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) in Traverse City, MI. These agreements mark a significant milestone in the collaboration between the two institutions, providing a clear and convenient pathway for students aspiring to pursue engineering careers.Under the newly finalized agreements, students completing their pre-engineering studies at NMC will have the opportunity to seamlessly transition into LSSU’s Bachelor of Science degree programs in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Robotics Engineering. Most notably, these agreements enable NMC students to complete their bachelor’s degrees at LSSU in either two or two and a half additional years, depending on their chosen field of study.“We are thrilled to solidify our partnership with Northwestern Michigan College,” said Lake Superior State Interim President, Dr. Lynn Gillette. “These articulation agreements not only streamline the academic journey for aspiring engineers but also underscore our commitment to providing accessible and high-quality engineering education.”

For students like Chris Gomez, a testament to the success of this transfer, the journey from NMC to LSSU has been transformative. Graduating from LSSU in 2021 with dual majors in Mechanical Engineering and Robotics Engineering, Gomez has since flourished in his career as an Automation Engineer at Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT) in Orion Township, MI. Chris was the 2022 recipient of AMT’s RISE Core Values Award and will also serve as the lead engineer for projects involving Autonomous Mobile Robots.Reflecting on his educational experience, Gomez expressed gratitude for the supportive environment at both NMC and LSSU. “NMC provided me with a solid foundation and the flexibility to explore my interests in engineering,” Gomez remarked. “Upon transferring to LSSU, I found a vibrant community and specialized programs that perfectly aligned with my career goals.”Gomez highlighted the invaluable role of both institutions in honing not only his technical skills but also critical soft skills essential for professional success. “The combination of technical expertise and practical experience gained from NMC and LSSU has equipped me to tackle real-world challenges at AMT,” he shared. “I am immensely grateful for the seamless transition facilitated by these articulation agreements.”

“Under the leadership of Dr. Paul Weber, Chair of the School of Engineering and Technology, nearly all faculty in the School of Engineering & Technology at LSSU have been collaborating with counterparts in Michigan community colleges to establish articulation agreements,” said Jim Devaprasad, Professor and Director of Robotics Center at Lake Superior State University.  “In addition to recently signed agreements with NMC and Bay College, relationships have been established with Alpena Community College, North Central Michigan College, and many others.  Similar to Chris Gomez, transfer students have done quite well at LSSU and graduated to outstanding engineering careers.”

With a focus on student success and academic excellence, Lake Superior State University and Northwestern Michigan College continue to pave the way for aspiring engineers, fostering innovation and leadership in the field.

For more information about LSSU’s engineering programs and partnership opportunities, please visit www.lssu.edu/engineering.

Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689

(Sault Ste. Marie, MI)  – Lake Superior State University (LSSU), a rural, public college located in Michigan’s upper peninsula, announced the launch of a new university-wide initiative designed to provide increased teletherapy and crisis support.

In collaboration with mental health and wellness solution Uwill, the university will increase its existing counseling capabilities with the addition of teletherapy that matches students with a licensed therapist based on student needs and preferences. The partnership also provides students with crisis support in the event of a mental health crisis.

“Providing access to free, clinical mental health counseling and support has long been part of our commitment to student success, and this strategic investment in teletherapy will enable us to provide students high-quality care, treatment and support that meets their needs,” said Anya Alexander, Associate Dean of Student Affairs and Executive Director of Campus Life and Engagement at Lake Superior State University. “This is about supporting our student community and breaking down barriers to mental health resources and care that will enable our students to achieve their full personal and academic potential.”

The announcement of the new digital mental health and wellness initiative comes at a time when acute mental health challenges among college students and young adults are on the rise. Recent survey data shows that 90% of adults believe the country is facing a mental health crisis. While 42% of college students have expressed the need for help with mental health difficulties in the last year, more than 60% have never received counseling or therapy.

In response, a growing number of colleges and universities are prioritizing investments in teletherapy and other support services to augment the capacity of their existing on-campus counseling centers.

The new mental health initiative is aligned with the university’s focus on removing barriers to student persistence and completion, following the approval of a five-year strategic plan by the board of trustees. The plan focuses on improving first-year student retention by expanding support for students who are first-generation, Pell Grant-eligible, and from other underrepresented student demographics.

“There’s now a greater appreciation than ever before in higher education that student success and mental health and well-being are two sides of the same coin,” said Michael London, founder and CEO of Uwill. “This is about ensuring that students have access to support that meets their mental health and wellness needs.”

Utilizing its proprietary technology and counselor team, Uwill pioneered the first student and therapist matching platform. The solution offers an immediate appointment with a licensed counselor based on student preferences, all modalities of teletherapy, a direct crisis connection, wellness events, real-time data, and support.

To learn more about Uwill and it’s services, please visit https://uwill.com/