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$3 Million Gift Advances Great Lakes Research and Creates First Named Directorship at LSSU

Lake Superior State University is significantly expanding its capacity for Great Lakes research and hands-on opportunities thanks to a $3 million investment from Dick and Theresa Barch. The donation supports the creation of the Richard and Theresa Barch Endowed Executive Directorship at the university’s Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE), marking the first named directorship in LSSU’s history.

The gift will establish an Excellence Fund to support student research, the acquisition of advanced equipment, and provide a new, larger research vessel, giving students expanded opportunities for hands-on learning and real-world experience.

“This investment strengthens our ability to grow research and student training at a scale that impacts not only LSSU, but all those who appreciate the Great Lakes and freshwater ecosystems,” said Dr. Ashley Moerke, Executive Director at CFRE. “It helps ensure that Barch CFRE has the resources to conduct research and gather data that informs conservation, policy, and resource management across the Great Lakes region.”

Barch CFRE serves as a hub for applied freshwater research and workforce development in the Great Lakes region, regularly collaborating with tribal, federal, and state agencies, as well as industry partners, to address real-world environmental challenges. Students engage directly in laboratory work, field sampling, and long-term research studies, producing science that impacts Great Lakes-wide decision-making and conservation efforts.

“This level of support enables us to expand the scope of our research and involve more students directly in applied fieldwork. The timing is especially critical as we launch our new accelerated Master’s program in Fisheries & Wildlife Management,” said Dr. Kevin Kapuscinski, Professor and holder of the Vanderploeg Endowed Assistant Directorship at CFRE. “With upgraded equipment and a larger vessel, we can conduct work that helps protect the Great Lakes while training students for careers in conservation and management of natural resources.”

Students gain experience that extends far beyond the classroom, benefiting from LSSU’s unique position as Michigan’s smallest public university. Support from private donors like the Barches is crucial to sustaining these opportunities, protecting ecosystems at the headwaters of the Great Lakes, and giving students direct involvement in research with real impact. For a university of its size, a gift like this is truly historic, highlighting a growing trend of investment in regional freshwater research, while also elevating LSSU’s profile as a leader in Great Lakes science.

The Barches have a long history of supporting Lake Superior State University and its mission. Their continued investment reflects a commitment to the work CFRE does and the long-term stewardship of natural resources.

Read more here.

Laker Hockey Challenge:

Great start brings in $1.3M toward $1.5M goal!

The momentum surrounding our Laker Hockey Challenge Match continues to build in remarkable ways. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the Laker Hockey community, we have now surpassed $1.3 million in commitments toward our $1.5 million goal — a milestone that reflects both pride in our program and belief in its future.

That impact is already being felt inside the Taffy Abel facility. Most recently, players returned to find a transformed hallway leading into the locker room — now outfitted with Laker-branded synthetic turf. Beyond the visual upgrade, the new space provides additional room for warm-ups and dry land training, enhancing both preparation and performance.

Behind this progress are individuals whose committment is helping turn vision into reality. In the story below, we are proud to highlight Laker hockey coaching legend, Jeff Jackson, whose leadership and generosity are helping drive this challenge forward and strengthen the future of Laker Hockey.

For more information, contact Sr. Director of Advancement Andrew Rubinstein at

arubinstein@lssu.edu or (906) 635-6219. You can click here to learn how you can support the Laker Hockey Challenge.

Honoring Family and Passion:

Jeff Jackson's Legacy Gift to LSSU Hockey

Jeff Jackson's journey with Lake Superior State University (LSSU) hockey began in 1986 as an assistant coach, during which he contributed to the Lakers' first NCAA national championship win in 1988. Promoted to head coach in 1990, Jeff led the team to unparalleled success, securing two more national championships over his six-season tenure.

But beyond the trophies and accolades, at the heart of Jeff's story are family, community, and a legacy of giving back. After Jeff’s father passed away when he was eight years old, he was raised by his single mother, Katherine Jackson, in Roseville, Michigan. He credits her unwavering positivity and determination for shaping the person he is today. When Jeff joined the LSSU hockey coaching staff, Katherine became an enthusiastic supporter of the Lakers and developed close, lasting friendships with members of the Blueliners and especially with Lakers equipment manager Gil Somes and his wife, Margie.

Her love for hockey and the community was evident. Katherine traveled to Sault Ste. Marie for games and even attended the 1994 National Championship game in St. Paul, Minnesota, cheering as her son led the Lakers to victory. Her passion for the team and the friendships she built in the Soo made a lasting impression on Jeff.

“For me it was about recognizing my mother — her legacy,” Jeff commented. “Anything I accomplished in life wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for her and how she raised me. It turned me into a good man with a positive attitude and work ethic, and those were all the things she represented.” He went on to say, “She had such a passion for the program and passion for the Soo, that I thought it would be only fitting for her legacy to attach her name to an endowment at Lake State because she was proud of that place, and I hope that place is proud of her as well.”

In honor of his mother's memory, Jeff established an endowment at LSSU to support Laker Hockey operations. Initially envisioned as a scholarship, the focus of the gift evolved over time. “Education was important to my mom, and important to me," he explained. "It was originally going to be an endowed scholarship, but with the changing landscape in college athletics, I thought it was important on an annual basis (interest from the endowment) to help the program to keep it healthy and competitive. So I changed it from a scholarship endowment to one that supports student-athletes and their development, or the coaching staff who help them develop.”

Looking toward the future, Jeff has taken steps to ensure that his support for Laker Hockey continues long after his lifetime. As part of his estate plan, he has committed a future gift to the endowment he created in his mother’s name. This planned gift will provide ongoing resources to strengthen the program and support generations of Laker Hockey student-athletes, both on and off the ice.

Jeff’s estate gift will significantly enhance the experience of Laker Hockey student-athletes, providing them with the opportunities and support that shaped his own life. “You’re supporting something you’re passionate about. For me, I was passionate about the game of hockey; I was passionate about Lake Superior State — still am — and my mother was,” Jeff said.

“So for me, it was about the passion for the sport — but more importantly, for the student-athletes. To be able to encourage their growth as people and as hockey players — well, if that money can help in any way to accomplish that goal, it’s a positive thing.”

“People contribute to a lot of different causes, but contributing to young people — to those who are highly motivated to accomplish things both on and off the ice — is a worthy gift toward helping them become what they dream of becoming. If I hadn’t had help growing up, I probably never would have accomplished what I did.”

Through his generosity and thoughtful planning, Jeff Jackson has ensured that his mother’s memory and the spirit of Laker Hockey will live on — supporting excellence, opportunity, and growth for years to come.

LSSU to Invest in Excess of $10 Million

in Campus Infrastructure Improvements

Lake Superior State University (LSSU) is investing in its campus to better serve students and maintain a vibrant, welcoming environment for decades to come. The multi-phase infrastructure efforts will utilize significant new donor support to update facilities, enhance campus spaces, and create a safer, more engaging experience for students, faculty, and visitors alike.

Campus-wide projects will include major roof repairs, repairs to sidewalks, roads, and parking lots, refreshed landscaping and campus-wide signage. Several buildings on campus will also receive significant upgrades in heating and cooling systems, improved electrical support, and energy efficiency. At its most recent meeting, LSSU’s Board of Trustees approved initial planning for major work in the Norris Center. This work begins with an engineering study that would lead to comprehensive updates to the Taffy Abel Ice Arena. Additional improvement plans will be brought forward for approval at future board meetings.

Infrastructure improvement efforts will focus on improving the comfort and safety of student housing and learning spaces, upgrading recreational facilities, and enhancing the overall campus footprint.

LSSU President Dr. David Travis said the planned infrastructure investment reflects the university’s commitment to its students and community.

“Investing in our campus means that we are investing in our students, employees, and community. We look forward to the positive impact these significant improvements will have on our learning environment, student and staff pride, and the evolving needs of our community. We are excited about the future of Lake Superior State University,” said Dr. Travis.

Although support for this work comes from a wide range of sources, Dr. Travis said it would not be possible without the help of generous donors that care greatly about the future of LSSU.

“I cannot express enough my appreciation for the support we are getting from our donors. Since I joined Lake State, I have made it clear that our students, staff, and the surrounding community deserve a better campus infrastructure, and many individuals have stepped up to help.”

Investing in the Future of Engineering:

AMT’s Classroom Sponsorship at LSSU

For more than 30 years, Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT) and Lake Superior State University have partnered to prepare students for impactful careers in manufacturing and automation. That longstanding relationship is now visible in a new way through AMT’s sponsorship of an engineering classroom within LSSU’s facilities.

The partnership dates back to the early days of robotics education, shortly after LSSU launched the nation’s first bachelor’s degree in Robotics Engineering Technology in 1985. Over the decades, AMT leaders have remained closely engaged with the university — serving on the Industrial Advisory Board, advising on curriculum, guest lecturing, and recruiting graduates. Today, LSSU alumni make up an estimated one-third of AMT’s engineering workforce.

The classroom sponsorship supports LSSU’s broader engineering enrollment initiative and reflects a shared commitment to applied, hands-on learning. Students who walk into the AMT-sponsored space are reminded that industry partners are actively investing in their education and future careers.

Read the full story here to learn more about how this partnership continues to shape opportunities for LSSU engineering students.

Honoring Service and Dedication at LSSU

Although this recognition comes later than it should have, it is important that we take a moment to properly celebrate these outstanding members of our campus community — especially following their formal recognition at the February 20 Board of Trustees meeting, where resolutions were approved by the Board.

Earlier this year, we gathered as a campus community to celebrate the people who make Lake Superior State University such a special place. The Employee Holiday Luncheon provided an opportunity to pause, enjoy one another’s company, and express sincere appreciation for the work that so often happens quietly, day in and day out.

The afternoon included recognition of service milestones spanning 5, 10, 20, and 40 years, along with a heartfelt celebration of our retirees. We also recognized exceptional contributions across campus. Paula Peltier from Athletics was named ESP Employee of the Year, Marc Boucher from the Library was honored as AP Employee of the Year, and Becky Davis from the School of Education received the Excellence in Advising Award for her continued commitment to student success.

At the onset of CoGLEE (College of the Great Lakes Ecology and Education), Becky was one of the few faculty members trained in advising and took on a particularly heavy caseload — often advising more than 75 students each semester. Despite those high numbers, she provided individualized attention to every student, guiding them toward a successful path in teaching and exemplifying the dedication recognized by this award.

Congratulations again to each of our honorees. Your work makes a real difference on this campus, and we are grateful for the care and commitment you bring to LSSU every day.

LSSU Welcomes Newly Appointed

Members to Board of Trustees

LSSU welcomes two new members of its Board or Trustees following their recent appointment by Michigan Governor, Gretchen Whitmer.

Michael Day, of Gaylord, is the owner and chief executive officer of Tribal Hub. Previously, Day was the chief information officer for Cannery Casino Resorts, the director of information technology for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians from 1989 to 2006, and a member of the Lake Superior State Foundation Board. Day holds a Bachelor of Science in computer information systems management from Lake Superior State University.

Michael Day is appointed for a term commencing February 2, 2026, and expiring January 27, 2034. Day succeeds Timothy Lukenda, whose term has expired.

Peter Scornaiencki, of Sault Saint Marie, is the owner of Bordertown Chiropractic. Scornaiencki previously served on the Chippewa Community Foundation Board, and the Hospice of the Eastern Upper Peninsula Board. Additionally, Scornaiencki also volunteers his sports chiropractic services to Lake Superior State University athletics. Scornaiencki holds a Bachelor of Science in human kinetics from the University of Guelph and a Doctor of Chiropractic from the Northwestern College of Chiropractic.

Peter Scornaiencki is appointed for a term commencing February 2, 2026, and expiring January 27, 2034. Scornaiencki succeeds Richard Barch, whose term has expired.

The LSSU Board of Trustees is the governing body of the University, with responsibility for oversight and direction of operations and resources. The Board plays a crucial role in guiding the University's mission, overseeing institutional policy, and supporting the long-term success of LSSU and its students. Lake State is grateful for the service of its trustees and looks forward to the perspectives and leadership these appointments bring.

For more information on the LSSU Board of Trustees, click here.

LSSU Hosts Spring Engagement Events for Future Lakers

In January, LSSU announced a full slate of spring events designed to help admitted students, as well as those still deciding, experience Lake State life. The lineup includes academic-focused programs, campus life experiences, and many interactive events for students of all ages and their families. The University already hosted an academic showcase with Laker basketball, where admitted students met faculty and learned about programs before attending a game on January 31st.

Spring 2026 Event Schedule

● February 27th: Academic Showcase with Laker Hockey (3:00pm-7:00pm)

This showcase features hands-on academic experiences, opportunities to connect with the LSSU faculty, and the exhilarating energy of a Laker home hockey weekend. Ideal for students who want to confirm their program of interest while getting a first-hand look at Lake State life. Register here

● March 9th-11th: Virtual Exploration Week (11:00am-4:00pm)

A three-night virtual series for admitted students who are still exploring majors. Each evening spotlights a different academic college and includes discussions about career pathways, coursework, and learning experiences students can expect. Participants will have opportunities to ask questions, dive deep into program info, and look for the best fit before enrolling in classes. Register here

● March 20th: EUP Snowman Burning Open House (5:30pm-7:30pm)

Held alongside a beloved local tradition, join LSSU for a community-focused event tailored to the Eastern Upper Peninsula students and families. Attendees can learn about local pathways, scholarship opportunities, and the benefits of staying close to home while pursuing a degree. Enjoy the yearly spectacle while seeing what LSSU has to offer. Register here

● April 11th: Laker Decision Day (11:00am-3:00pm)

Created for admitted students who are looking to finalize their college choice, this event offers personalized support on academics, financial aid, next steps, and more. Students can finalize their decision and enrollment, explore the campus and community, and celebrate their choice alongside other future Lakers. Register here

● May 8th: Summer Orientation (11:00am-4:00pm)

An orientation session for new and transfer students coming to LSSU's main campus, beginning classes on May 11th, 2026. Meet with advisors, register for classes, and plan for housing and dining. Families are encouraged to attend, with specified sessions on topics like financial planning and supporting students through the transition to college life included. Register here

● May 8th: Spring Open House (10:00am-1:00pm)

An introductory event for students of all ages to learn what LSSU has to offer. Take part in campus and experiential lab tours, learn about academic programs, and get an in-depth preview of Lake State life. This event is ideal for those beginning their college search or exploring their options. Register here

CAMPUS/COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

LSSU Theater Department Performs The Meeting by Alum Mariana Bezerra

LSSU students and alumni brought The Meeting to life in multiple performances from February 11–14. This dark comedy plunges audiences into a group therapy session, inviting us to laugh, reflect, and connect with the thoughts and emotions that make us human.

The play was written by Mariana Bezerra and directed by Assistant Professor Adam St. John.

LSSU Kinesiology Students Volunteer at the Special Olympics State Winter Games

In January, LSSU Kinesiology students Trista Bupp,

Tessa Deal, Emily Fleming, Sophie Gibbs, Caleb Henderson, Martina Oviedo, Josie Vance, and Izzy Yeoman volunteered to provide medical coverage for the Special Olympics State Winter Games in Traverse City, Michigan. Athletes from across the state gathered to compete, connect, and shine. Favorable weather conditions, including ample snow and moderate

temperatures, contributed to a successful event.

Student volunteers supported athletes across a variety of venues, including broomball, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing, as well as recreational activities that included sledding, hayrides, and indoor special events. This experience provided students with valuable hands-on learning while working with special populations. Students also enjoyed the opportunity to work alongside other medical professionals, who were excited to have them as part of the crew. Volunteers had the

opportunity to celebrate alongside the athletes at the victory dance following Thursday evening’s closing ceremonies.

LSSU Kinesiology (formerly Athletic Training) has proudly volunteered at the Special Olympics State Winter Games since 2009.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

LSSU Student Earns Internationally Recognized Teaching Certificate

Creative writing student Tessa Myrick recently earned an internationally recognized Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certification in Barcelona, Spain. The Trinity Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (CerTESOL) course is considered the most complete course for new English teachers and is recognized around the globe.

Congratulations to Tessa!

FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Yong Zeng Appointed to Two Literary Committees

LSSU Assistant Professor Dr. Yong Zeng has been appointed to the Oscar Causey Award Committee for the Literacy Research Association. This committee selects the association’s highest honor, recognizing one outstanding scholar in literacy research. In addition, Dr. Zeng has been invited to join the Editorial Board of English Leadership Quarterly, a journal of the National Council of Teachers of English, beginning August 2026.

LSSU Professor and Chippewa County Sheriff Sergeant Honored as Chippewa County Officer of the Year for 2025

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Sergeant Bradley Clegg was awarded a significant honor by the Chippewa County Sheriff’s office at their annual awards banquet. He was honored as the Chippewa County Officer of the Year award for 2025. Professor/Sergeant Clegg is the Night Supervisor for the County and is in charge of Firearms training, Field Training Officer (FTO), and is a critical link to the future of Law Enforcement officers in our community with his work here at LSSU in the Criminal Justice Program and MCOLES academy.

CAMPUS NEWS

College of the Great Lakes, Ecology, and Education

The LSSU Fisheries and Wildlife Club was awarded the Most Active Student Subunit Award for the American Fisheries Society Northcentral Division! This honor is presented annually to one university across 16 states and provinces. The Club will now go on to compete for the national award. Way to go, Lakers!

LSSU has been recognized multiple times in the past as the most active student chapter, reflecting the club’s ongoing commitment to leadership, outreach, and professional development.

College of Business, Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics

Last month, members of the Engineering Living Learning Community in Chippewa Hall attended the Detroit Auto Show as part of the 2026 Future Leader Forum on Industry Preview Day. The Engineering Society of Detroit sponsored eight engineering students to participate in the event on January 15.

College of the Great Lakes, Ecology, and Education

Seven Lake Superior State University students represented the School of Biological Sciences at the 2026 Midwest Fish & Wildlife Conference in Fort Wayne, Indiana, showcasing original research spanning fisheries, wildlife ecology, and aquatic science.

Senior Lauren Schagel (Fisheries & Wildlife) earned special recognition as a Fenske Memorial Award finalist in Wildlife. She presented her research, Investigating patterns of petal color change in Great White Trilliums (Trillium grandiflorum) in Vanderbilt, MI, highlighting detailed field-based botanical work and ecological analysis.

Alana Schofield delivered a poster presentation titled Sex-specific Population Characteristics of Lake Sturgeon in the St. Marys River during 2023–2025. Her research was conducted in collaboration with personnel from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and Dr. Britton Ranson Olson of LSSU’s School of Biological Sciences. Alana will continue this work as a master’s candidate under the supervision of Dr. Kapuscinski.

Anthony Savoie presented his poster, Effects of synthetic materials on larval caddisfly case construction and predation risk, examining how environmental contaminants influence aquatic insect behavior and survival.

Aiden Cardwell shared findings from his project, Impacts of environmental factors on zooplankton communities across sinkhole lakes in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, while Eli Herriman presented research on Effects of water color on zooplankton communities and larval coregonine length and abundance.

Brendan Conger contributed a poster titled Feeding selectivity of larval coregonines in comparison to zooplankton density in northern Lake Huron, exploring predator-prey dynamics in Great Lakes ecosystems.

Carli Huhn presented her research on Black bear (Ursus americanus) movement in relation to all-terrain and off-road vehicle use on Drummond Island, Michigan, offering insights into wildlife movement patterns and human recreation impacts.

Together, these students demonstrated the breadth and rigor of LSSU’s Fisheries & Wildlife program. Their participation at a major regional scientific conference reflects both the strength of undergraduate research at LSSU and the University’s continued commitment to hands-on, field-based learning.

LSSU Theatre Arts

Assistant Professors Noah Lucé and Adam St. John

celebrated their first on-campus collaboration this

past fall with the production of Witch by Jen

Silverman, which was recognized by the College

American Theatre Festival with two Certificates of

Merit.

The production at LSSU received a Certificate for Excellence in Ensemble Performance, honoring Eliza Brown (Nursing), Allie Cook (Business alumna), Pat Hildebrand (Geology, Theatre Minor), Ryan Maurer (community member), Joelene Melgar (Teacher Education, Theatre Minor), Heath Muller (General Studies), Tessa Myrick (Creative Writing, Theatre Minor), Brooklyn Patchin (Creative Writing alumna), Nathan Prehoda (Electrical Engineering), Adam St. John, and Jack Tanner (Small Business Administration) for their

collective artistry and collaboration.

In addition, Noah Lucé was awarded a Certificate of Merit for Excellence in Choreography and Direction, acknowledging his leadership and creative vision in bringing this production to life.

School of Chemistry, Environmental, and Geosciences

LSSU students Shane Coykendall (Environmental Science), Kyle Eichhorn (Geology), Logan McQueen (Geology), and Lilyann Secord-Rider (Biology) presented their work at the 2025 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting in New Orleans, LA, in December.

The American Geophysical Union meeting is the world's largest gathering of Earth and space scientists with over 20,000 in attendance from 120 countries.

College of Health and Emergency Responders

LSSU's 2024-2025 Paramedic graduates have achieved a 100% pass rate on the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification exam. All candidates from 2024-25 are working for an EMS agency here in Michigan, with 2 graduates working as new hires for Sault Fire Department.

LAKER ATHLETICS

LSSU Basketball Athlete Grace Bradford Sets LSSU Record With 1,001st Career Rebound

Grace Bradford has secured her place in Lake Superior State University history. During the Lakers’ February 5 matchup against Michigan Tech, the senior recorded her 1,000th and 1,001st career rebounds, becoming the program’s all-time leader.

Bradford, a senior from Maple City, Michigan, surpassed the previous record of 1,000 rebounds set by Marti Wallace ’83, a 1997 LSSU Hall of Fame inductee. She broke the record with 2:42 remaining in the first quarter of the GLIAC contest, grabbing a missed shot by Michigan Tech to claim the milestone.

A model of consistency since her first season, Bradford has started nearly every game of her collegiate career and has been a steady presence for the Lakers on both ends of the court. To commemorate the achievement, her head coach presented her with a ceremonial game ball.

Read more about Bradford's LSSU career here.

LSSU Track & Field Athlete Janelle Docter

Breaks School Record

The Lakers showed their best at the Track & Field Big Meet at GVSU this month, with 20 athletes breaking 27 personal records. This included Janelle Docter, who not only broke her own personal best record in the Weight Throw, but also the University record. With a distance of 15.3 meters, Docter, a senior, has set the standard for future Laker athletes.

To read more about the Big Meet, click here .

Cappo Cup Returns to LSSU After Sweep Against NMU

After beating the NMU Wildcats in Marquette on February 20th, the Lakers retained possession of the Cappo Cup rivalry trophy. In one of the strangest games of the year, two goals were called back by review in the first period alone. The teams combined for five goals in the opening six minutes of the third period. It was thrilling for fans in attendance, but an absolute nightmare for official scorers to keep up with.

LSSU retains the Cappo Cup, awarded annually to the winner of the regular season series between Lake Superior State and Northern Michigan. The trophy returns to Sault Ste. Marie for the third straight year and the sixth year out of the last seven. There is still much to be done and the Lakers aren't finished yet, though achieving their preseason goal of winning the cup is sure to put a pep in their step.