Southwestern Michigan College celebrates record-breaking spring enrollment, employee service

The Southwestern Michigan College Board of Trustees held its final meeting of 2024 Wednesday, celebrating a successful year with a review of major accomplishments.

Dr. Joe Odenwald, SMC’s president, highlighted the college’s achievements, comparing them to a David Letterman Top 10 list. Among the highlights were a record-breaking spring enrollment increase of 11.5%, the highest in the state, and a new partnership with Grand Valley State University to offer bachelor’s degrees at SMC.

Other notable achievements include a $2 million grant for nursing education, the expansion of SMC housing, and the addition of three new athletic teams: men’s and women’s track and women’s wrestling.

The college also celebrated its 60th anniversary with a series of events, including the inaugural Founders Day celebration.

“Businesses don’t last forever. Sixty years is a long time,” Odenwald said. “And we’re still going strong.” He emphasized the college’s commitment to continued growth and momentum, with strategic planning for 2025 already underway.

During the meeting, the board also recognized the service of two employees.

Emily Schrock, alumni relations and development coordinator, received a five-year service pin. Before studying business administration at SMC, Schrock was valedictorian at Constantine. As a student, she worked in the admissions office for her 2016 associate degree. Schrock worked as SMC’s admissions communications specialist while completing her education at Ferris State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in digital marketing in 2018.

After three years at St. Joseph Today as marketing manager, Schrock returned to SMC in 2021 as alumni relations and development coordinator. Last summer, she assumed executive directorship of the foundation, accepting additional responsibilities. She recently earned her CFRM from Indiana University Indianapolis and organized last month’s inaugural Founders Day.

John Eberhart, building and grounds director, was honored for his 20 years of service. In November 2004, Eberhart began working as an electrician in the Buildings and Grounds Department. In 1980, he earned an electrical journeyman’s card in Michigan, eventually becoming a master electrician in 1987. Eberhart, after a decade as campus electrician, became director of buildings and grounds.

“Over the last 10 years, John has played an instrumental role in moving the college forward, leading several major projects including, as of late, the Niles chemistry lab renovation, 1 Source Bank Fieldhouse and, currently, the residence halls expansion,” said Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer Brent Brewer.

The board also acknowledged six gifts totaling $2,120 to the SMC Foundation.