Sault Ste. Marie, MI — Lake Superior State University will closed February 28, 2024 and February 29, 2024 due to weather conditions. All campus offices and buildings will be closed. Only essential personnel need to report to work. Lake State will re-open on March 1, 2024, as scheduled.
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) was delighted to host Greg Sandler, Founder and CEO of Dynamic Machine of Detroit, and LSSU alumnus Steve Essenberg. The occasion was marked by the generous donation of two Doosan M1013 Collaborative Robots to LSSU’s Robotics Lab, valued at approximately $75,000.
Steve Essenberg, a 2015 graduate with a degree in Electrical Engineering Technology and a minor in Robotics Technology, has been an integral part of Dynamic Machine’s success. Greg Sandler expressed his admiration for Steve’s contributions and expressed interest in welcoming future LSSU alumni to join the Dynamic Machine team in the future.
“Working in the automation field, I have worked with graduates from many different universities. Yet, Lake State continues to deliver some of the most prepared and highest quality graduates that I’ve worked with,” said LSSU alumnus, Steve Essenberg. “In an industry that is experiencing the kind of growth like robotics and automation, it is important that our educational institutions have the appropriate technology to ensure these graduates continue to have the best understanding of industry trends.”
During their visit, Greg Sandler and Steve Essenberg had the opportunity to tour LSSU’s Robotics Lab and Machine Shop. They were impressed with the facilities and the emphasis on real-world engineering skills that complement theoretical knowledge.
“I was impressed with the equipment in the robotics lab, it’s nice to see more than one brand of industrial robot represented,” said Greg Sandler, Founder and CEO of Dynamic Machine of Detroit. “I am happy to provide LSSU with these new robots especially after learning of the Cobots that were lost in the fire last fall. I hope to continue to support Lake State’s engineering programs in the future.”
The Doosan Robots donated by Dynamic Machine will play a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience for LSSU students. These robots will be integrated into various courses, including a specialized course focusing on Collaborative Robots, providing students with hands-on experience in cutting-edge automation technology.
Expressing gratitude for the generous donation, Jim Devaprasad, Professor and Director of the Robotics Center at LSSU, stated, “We are thrilled to add the Doosan Robots donated by Dynamic Machine to our robotics lab. These robots will be utilized in courses that emphasize collaborative robots, enriching the learning experience for our students.”
Jim Devaprasad also highlighted the importance of industry partnerships in keeping educational programs current and acknowledged the significant contributions of LSSU alumni, such as Steve Essenberg, to the automation industry.
The collaboration between Lake Superior State University and Dynamic Machine exemplifies the commitment to advancing education and fostering innovation in the field of robotics and automation. The university looks forward to continued partnerships with industry leaders to provide students with top level technology opportunities and experiences.
For more information on LSSU’s robotics lab, please visit our website at https://www.lssu.edu/school-of-engineering-and-technology/
Contact: Fred A. Pierce III, Dean of Enrollment Management and Communications, [email protected], tel. 906-635-2674
Sault Ste. Marie, MI – Dr. David Travis, Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin at River Falls has been selected as the 11th President of Lake Superior State University. The Travis appointment was formalized at a special meeting of the Board of Trustees on Thursday, February 22 and he will begin his term effective June 3, 2024.
Dr. Travis earned Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Geography from the University of Georgia and a Ph.D. in Geography from Indiana University. He began his academic career at the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater in 1994 as Assistant Professor of Geography and he rose through the faculty and administrative ranks to Professor of Geography and Dean of the College of Arts and Letters. The Whitewater faculty recognized Dr. Travis as a gifted administrator, educator, and accomplished researcher in the fields of climatology, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications.
Dr. Travis was selected as the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin- River Falls (UWRF) in 2018 and has assumed increasing responsibilities for UWRF’s academic portfolio and organizational activities. A long-time administrator, he brings 18 years of combined management experience to LSSU. Travis is of Canadian lineage and has long history of dedicated service and commitment to student development, rural areas, international engagement, community partnerships, and working in border communities.
The Travis appointment is the result of a national search conducted by members of the Lake Superior State University Presidential Search Committee, which included students, faculty, staff, alumni, individuals from the Board of Trustees, Sault Ste. Marie community members, and with assistance from Storbeck Diversified Search. “I want to thank all those involved in this very thorough and professional search” said Cynthia Williams, Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. “Our process resulted in an exceptional pool of candidates, and through careful and deliberate consideration, the appointment of Dr. Travis is a truly outstanding result. Throughout the search process, Dr. Travis distinguished himself as a thoughtful and collaborative leader with a demonstrated commitment to student success and the depth of experience in higher education that will serve LSSU well.”
Travis will assume the role from current Interim President Dr. Lynn Gillette, who stepped in to assist the university following the departure of Dr. Rodney S. Hanley last year.
Tim Lukenda, Chair of the LSSU Board of Trustees said, “We are very pleased to have Dr. Travis join LSSU and lead our institution into the future. David is an experienced administrator who has moved progressively through multiple academic appointments at two different universities. In addition to his extensive experience in academic affairs, he has managed campus-wide initiatives involving academic and student affairs, facilities, as well as donor partnerships and other campus wide endeavors. He has also been active in advocating for funding with the Wisconsin state legislature.”
Dr. David Travis commented, “I am honored and thrilled to be selected as LSSU’s next president. Lake State is a university with dedicated and talented individuals that are transforming students’ lives every day. I am committed to doing what it takes to ensure this great university has the necessary resources to continue doing this work while strengthening its partnership with the city of Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding areas.”
Dr. Travis plans to visit campus periodically prior to the start of his term for preparatory meetings with representatives of the broader LSSU community. An open reception will be held in April to welcome and introduce the 11th President of Lake Superior State University to the campus and the community. Details will be released in late March.
To learn more about Dr. David Travis, please click here.
(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) –Lake Superior State University (LSSU) proudly announces the launch of its Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity to begin on August 26th, 2024. This new and innovative program provides students with a unique combination of skills in criminal justice, computer science and computer networking. The curriculum underscores the systematic administration and design of systems, aiming to shield against cyberattacks, facilitate data recovery, and provide essential information crucial for the investigation and prosecution of cybercrime offenders.
“In shaping this curriculum, we did extensive research of cybersecurity programs across the state of Michigan,” said Professor Herb Henderson, the Chair of the School of Criminal Justice, Fire Science, and EMS. “We identified programs that amalgamated computer science and information technology with business, military science, or engineering. However, our program is uniquely designed for students who seek a strong foundation in the fields of investigation and law enforcement.”
LSSU’s program will be focused on hands-on skill development and practical application. They plan to seek specialized accreditation through the Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Security Agency. The requirements for accreditation were considered in the design of the curriculum. LSSU can apply for this accreditation after the program has been in place for three years.
Since 1977, LSSU has been at the forefront of providing comprehensive criminal justice programming. Building on this legacy, the university has additionally offered cutting-edge programs in computer science and computer networking for almost 25 years. Henderson added, “This program represents a strong collaboration between faculty in criminal justice and computer science. The demands of the workforce in information warfare, digital forensics, and policy development are becoming more interdisciplinary. Graduates from this program will secure a well-rounded skill set for a rewarding career.”
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a growth of employment in information security of 32% from 2022 to 2032. “LSSU is laser focused on equipping our graduates for their chosen profession, helping them land their first job, and having the leadership skills needed to be successful,” said Dr. Lynn Gillette, Interim President of LSSU. “This cybersecurity program fits our mission and the needs of our region well.”
To learn more about Lake Superior State University’s new cybersecurity program, including the comprehensive curriculum, admission requirements, and exciting career prospects, please visit lssu.edu/school-of-criminal-justice/school-of-criminal-justice-fire-science-and-emergency-services/all-academic-programs/cybersecurity/
Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689
ESCANABA, Mich. – Local residents made Lake Superior State University Dean’s List for the Fall 2023 semester. To make the Dean’s List, students must achieve at least a 3.5 GPA while taking at least twelve LSSU credits during the semester.
Students earning their baccalaureate degrees through classes offered at LSSU’s Regional Center on Bay College’s campus are Brooke Landis (Rapid River), Kaitlin Malanowski (Gladstone), Megan Robinson (Gladstone), Erika Silverstone (Escanaba), Amber Trombley (Escanaba), and Gracie Wickham (Escanaba) are majoring in Teacher Education. Makenna Nelson (Escanaba) is majoring in English Language Literature and Jessica Johnson (Escanaba) is majoring in Business Administration-Management.
Students on the Dean’s List and taking classes on LSSU’s campus in Sault Ste. Marie are Alexander Bergeron (Flat Rock) majoring in Fire Science, Benjamin Cole (Kingsford) in Forensic Chemistry, Wendy Leisner (Escanaba) in Biochemistry Pre-Professional, Emilee McDaniel (Manistique) in Biology, Sarah McDaniel (Manistique) in Biology, Laci Paidl (Stephenson) in Teacher Education, Brooklyn Patchin (McFarland), Nathan Piche (Nadeau) in English Language Literature, Lea Pleaugh (Gwinn) in Pre-Nursing, David Rivard (Cornell) in Computer Science, Lea Whelan (Marquette) in Criminal Justice.
LSSU offers baccalaureate degree programs at Bay College’s campuses in Escanaba and Iron Mountain that enable area students to earn a degree close to home.
For more information on degree programs available, please contact Heidi Rife at 906-217.4123 or [email protected] or visit http://www.lssu.edu/regional-center/.
Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689
ESCANABA, Mich. – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) honors Heidi Rife as the recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Comprehensive Student Support Services Award. The primary focus of this award is to acknowledge staff’s commitment to excellence in service to others.
Heidi Rife is LSSU’s Regional Center Director, based on Bay College’s Escanaba campus. She holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a Business Analytics concentration from Regent University and is a LSSU and Bay College alumna. Rife advises transfer students in local LSSU bachelor degree options. In 2023, Rife also received recognition for her 10 years of service and contributions to LSSU’s campus community. In 2021 and 2022, Ms. Rife was nominated for the Transfer Champion-Catalyst Award through the National Institute for the Study of Transfer Students.
Dr. Kimberly Muller, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, states, “Heidi does an excellent job of advising students at our regional centers. She also works closely with LSSU’s personnel in academic and library services to connect students to all of the resources at their disposal. I appreciate her professionalism and her willingness to go above and beyond.”
A LSSU student adds, “She is the reason why this process with being only online isn’t impossible. I feel so lost sometimes and Heidi is always ready to help me with anything.”
LSSU has partnered with Bay College since 1988, offering students desiring to remain local the options of earning LSSU’s baccalaureates in accounting, business, criminal justice, general studies, nursing, and teacher education without ever having to leave Bay College’s Main Campus in Escanaba or West Campus in Iron Mountain; additional programs are available on LSSU’s main campus in Sault Ste. Marie. Transfer agreements signed by Bay College and LSSU make it easy to see the Bay College classes that transfer to specific baccalaureate degrees at LSSU.
“LSSU’s regional center is a great opportunity for students to stay local while earning a quality bachelor’s degree,” states LSSU’s regional center director, Heidi Rife. She is also a Bay graduate who transferred to LSSU for a bachelor’s degree and went on to earn her master’s degree.
To learn more information about LSSU’s Regional Centers visit https://www.lssu.edu/regional-center/ or contact Heidi Rife, LSSU Regional Center Director, at 906-217-4123 or [email protected] for more information.
Contact: Dr. Steven Johnson, Dean for the College of Science & the Environment, [email protected]
(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) – Lake Superior State University (LSSU) proudly announces a groundbreaking achievement in genomics as Biology Major Tailey McCloskey successfully produces LSSU’s first fully in-house genome.
The remarkable accomplishment is the result of McCloskey’s dedicated efforts in DNA extraction, nanopore sequencing, and assembly, conducted under the mentorship of Dr. Stephen Kolomyjec, Associate Professor of Biology.
McCloskey’s work focuses on the complete mitochondrial genome of the freshwater sponge Corvomeyenia everetti. The project represents a significant contribution to the field of genomics and showcases the caliber of research conducted at LSSU.
“Tailey’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge is truly commendable. This achievement not only highlights her expertise but also reflects the collaborative and innovative spirit of our biology program at Lake Superior State University,” said Dr. Kolomyjec, McCloskey’s undergraduate research mentor and LSSU’s Associate Professor of Biology.
The complete mitochondrial genome of Corvomeyenia everetti is now publicly available on the National Center for Biotechnology Information’s GenBank. Researchers, students, and the scientific community can access the genome using the following link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nuccore/PP068995.
McCloskey’s accomplishment adds to the growing list of achievements by LSSU students and faculty in the field of biology. The university remains committed to fostering a research-intensive environment that nurtures the talents of its students and contributes to advancements in scientific knowledge.
For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Dr. Steven Johnson, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, [email protected]
Contact: Sheridan Worth, Director of Marketing at Lake Superior State University, [email protected], 906-635-2689
(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) – The Lake Superior State University (LSSU) School of Nursing proudly announces a remarkable achievement as our 2023 NCLEX pass rate reached an impressive 100%.
This outstanding result surpasses both the national average for bachelors prepared nurses, which stands at 90%, and the state of Michigan’s average of approximately 87%.
The NCLEX, or National Council Licensure Examination, is the pivotal National Board certification exam that aspiring graduate nurses must successfully pass to obtain their state licenses. LSSU School of Nursing not only met but exceeded the expectations with a perfect pass rate, demonstrating the exceptional quality of education and preparation provided to our nursing graduates.
A noteworthy aspect of this accomplishment is that the 2023 NCLEX utilized a new test plan known as the Next Generation NCLEX. This updated test plan was specifically designed to be more rigorous, challenging candidates in a comprehensive manner. Despite the increased difficulty, LSSU nursing graduates showcased their dedication, knowledge, and skills, resulting in a flawless pass rate.
“This outstanding accomplishment reflects the unparalleled quality of nursing education at LSSU and underscores the dedication and excellence of our faculty, staff, and graduates,” said Dr. Kathy Berchem, DNP, RN, Academic Dean, College of Health & Emergency Responders.
“As they step into their professional roles, our graduates are poised to make a profound impact on the health of our communities, embodying the highest standards of care and commitment to excellence,” Dr. Berchem continued. “We are immensely proud of all our graduates and invite aspiring nurses to choose LSSU for their BSN degree, where they can receive an education that prepares them for success in the dynamic field of healthcare.”
The LSSU School of Nursing remains dedicated to providing top-notch education and preparing nursing professionals who can meet and exceed industry standards. As we celebrate this outstanding achievement, we look forward to continued success in nurturing and producing highly qualified and competent healthcare professionals.
For more information, please contact: Dr. Kathy Berchem, DNP, RN, Academic Dean | College of Health & Emergency Responders, (906) 635-2043, [email protected].
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 declare the successful installation of a cutting-edge Micro X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer. This achievement, made possible by a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), has established the university as the primary institution within a research consortium in the Upper Midwest.
The instrument will be a key component of the newly established Micro Analysis and Spectroscopic Characterization (MASC) Lab. An open house, open to the public, will be held from 12-4pm on Friday February 2, 2024 in Crawford Hall 105.
Dr. Mark R. Zierden, the Principal Investigator (PI) for the grant, expressed enthusiasm about the multifaceted impact of this development. “This grant not only enhances our research capabilities but also establishes Lake Superior State University as the lead institution of a research consortium and underscores our commitment to collaborative scientific exploration in the region.”
“The Micro X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer, housed within the MASC Lab, will serve as a powerful analytical tool for researchers at LSSU and consortium partners. The MASC Lab, dedicated to microanalysis and spectroscopic characterization, will facilitate interdisciplinary studies, material characterization, studies on plant uptake of nutrients and heavy metals, elemental analysis of geologic specimens, and paleoclimate studies, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment,” said Dr. Derek D. Wright, MASC Lab Facility Coordinator.
Dr. Steven C. Johnson, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at LSSU commented, “The MASC Lab will be a hub for cutting-edge research, providing our students and faculty with the resources to delve into the microscopic world of materials. It represents a significant step forward in our commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and fostering collaboration across disciplines.”
“Under the leadership of Dean Johnson, faculty of the College of Arts & Sciences have dramatically increased their research activity, raising nearly $5 million of external research funding over the past five years. Lake Superior State University’s leadership in the research consortium, coupled with the establishment of the MASC Lab, solidifies the university’s position as a regional leader in scientific research and innovation. The MASC Lab will not only benefit the university community but also provide a platform for collaborative projects that extend beyond LSSU’s campus,” said LSSU Interim President, Dr. Lynn Gillette.
For more information on using the MASC Lab, please contact the MASC Lab at [email protected] or visit our website at: https://sites.google.com/lssu.edu/masclab/home
Contact: Thomas Meacham, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Theatre, Arts Center Director, 906-635-2735, [email protected]
(Sault Ste. Marie, MI) – The Arts Center at Lake Superior State University is thrilled to welcome the Woodland Sky Native American Dance Company on February 2, 2024 for a captivating performance of their new work, “Lake of the Torches.”
The performance promises an enchanting evening filled with historic tales and stories, brought to life through traditional native songs and dances. Using eagle feathers, moccasins, flute and drums, hoop dancers, and legendary warriors and hunters, Woodland Sky transports the audience to a bygone era.
The show is the culmination of a three-day residency by the company.
Woodland Sky comprises Native American dancers from the Ojibwe, Sioux, Potawatomi, and Apache tribes. Woodland Sky hopes “to provide a quality, authentic and respectful Native American dance performance/demonstration with experienced Native American dancers in order to educate the viewer on traditional Native American stories, culture and values using authentic songs, music and dance.”
Not only will you be able to discover exciting aspects about local Native American culture, but you will also be able to experience it in a lively and very entertaining way.
The performance will take place at the Arts Center Theater at 7:00 p.m. on February 2, 2024. Free parking is available in Lot K, in front of the Arts Center, and Lot E, behind the Cisler Center. The Arts Center is wheelchair accessible.
Admission prices are $15 for Adults, $10 for Seniors, $5 for Children (17 and under), and free for LSSU students and university employees. Tickets can be purchased at www.lssu.edu/arts-center or by calling (906) 635-2787.
