Southwestern Michigan College in Dowagiac celebrated its 60th anniversary November 1st with its first-ever ‘Founders Day.’ Longtime SMC leaders and boosters came together with current students and families to celebrate what the college called “a good idea that got loose in the world.”
SMC’s first student, Dr. Bruce Watson, who went on to become a school superintendent in three districts, accepted an Outstanding Alumnus Award from Chairman Tom Jerdon.
Watson recalled college origins, from the’ Committee of 50’s’ barnstorming campaign led by first chairman Dr. Fred L. Mathews to voter approval of SMC on Nov. 3, 1964.
“The millage passed to fund the college by a 2-1 margin, which is unheard of,” Watson said, noting 93 students graduated in the first class.
“I went on to Western Michigan University,” he said. “I taught on the other side of the state, got my master’s degree, came back to Dowagiac and coached David Mathews in tennis. I brought the skills I learned here at SMC” to being a superintendent after initially intending to become an accountant.
Chloe Itimu, who aspires to become a pediatrician in her native Malawi, spoke as a SMC student benefiting from support from the Aline Ahrens Memorial and Grady scholarships.
Majoring in biology medical pre-professional, she was born and raised in Lilongwe, Malawi.
“I never imagined I’d be standing here, pursuing my dreams in the United States. Initially, the transition was daunting. As an African living in America, I felt isolated and struggled to find my footing. I learned culture shock is real.
“But SMC welcomed me with open arms,” the Black Student Union vice president said, “providing a sense of home and community. The warmth and kindness I received reminded me of the hometown I missed so dearly. SMC taught me that leadership is more than standing in front of a group and instructing them, it’s about serving, listening and empowering others.”
SMC President Dr. Joe Odenwal said, “Founders Day provides another opportunity to add a tradition to our college calendar. We just had the 50th Steve’s Run. Our annual holiday band and choir concert has been a staple for decades. We added Welcome Week and the Jolly Jamboree lighting SMC’s holiday tree in 2018, the New Student Convocation in 2019 and graduation in Alumni Plaza in 2021.”
Founders Day Organizer and 2016 graduate Emily Schrock, SMC alumni relations and development coordinator since 2021, said, “A dream of providing ‘Knowledge for All’ turned into SMC. I have new appreciation for those who laid the foundation for thousands of people to obtain higher education and, ultimately, to better their lives and the lives around them.
“Take a moment to think of the impact this one dream had on all of us and for all of those who come after. Students who come here are able to go anywhere. When we invest in our students, and break down financial barriers, it means a brighter, more prosperous future for our entire community.”
ABOUT SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN COLLEGE
Southwestern Michigan College is a public, residential and commuter community college founded in 1964. The college delivers above-average graduation/transfer rates compared to other community colleges nationally and student college-level course success that is consistently in the top 25 percent of two-year colleges nationally. SMC strives to be the college of first choice, to provide the programs and services that meet the needs of students and to serve our community. The college is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member of the American Association of Community Colleges.
Learn more at www.swmich.edu or email mediarelations@swmich.edu.
