Welcome to the Laker E-ffect, the monthly newsletter from the LSSU Office of Alumni Relations. Please note: Due to length, this email may be clipped by your email provider. To ensure you’re viewing the full content, scroll to the bottom and click “[Message clipped] View entire message.” Thank you for staying connected with LSSU! | | |
LSSU Receives Historic $30 Million
State Investment to Transform CASET Building
Lake Superior State University has received a $30 million Capital Outlay appropriation in the State of Michigan’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget to support the renovation and expansion of LSSU’s Center for Applied Science and Engineering Technology (CASET).
The appropriation marks the largest Capital Outlay investment in LSSU history and a major milestone in the university’s ongoing commitment to modernize campus infrastructure and expand academic opportunities. The total estimated project cost is $40 million, with the state’s investment covering 75 percent.
Originally constructed to support the university’s growing science and technology programs, CASET has served as a cornerstone of academic excellence for generations of Lakers. The facility houses classrooms, laboratories, and specialized learning spaces that provide students with hands-on educational experiences and prepare them for careers in high-demand fields.
Renovating and expanding CASET has been a campus priority for many years. The project will modernize aging infrastructure, enhance existing academic spaces, and create new areas that support experiential learning, research, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The renovation represents a transformational investment in a building that has long played a central role in advancing LSSU’s academic mission.
“This landmark investment demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to the future of Lake Superior State University,” said LSSU President Dr. David Travis. “The appropriation will strengthen our ability to provide exceptional educational opportunities for our students while expanding programs that drive innovation and workforce development across Michigan. We are deeply grateful to Representative Parker Fairbairn for his leadership, as well as Senator John Damoose and our many partners throughout the state, whose support and commitment made this historic investment possible.”
The renovated CASET facility will ensure LSSU students continue to benefit from small class sizes, hands-on learning, and research that addresses real-world challenges. The updated building will feature state-of-the-art laboratories, equipment, and collaborative learning spaces where students can work together on projects that enhance their education while strengthening partnerships with industry.
“CASET Hall is home to many programs that exemplify LSSU’s commitment to applied learning and student success, including engineering, computer science, mathematics, paramedic technology, and fire science,” said Provost Dr. Kimberly Muller. “This investment will support students and faculty across these disciplines while also serving as the future home of criminal justice. The renovated facility will provide outstanding spaces for collaboration, innovation, and discovery, helping prepare our graduates with the skills needed to succeed in an evolving workforce. We are tremendously excited about the opportunities this renovation will create for our students, our faculty, and the future of Lake Superior State University.”
Planning and project development will continue in coordination with the State of Michigan’s Capital Outlay process. Additional details regarding the project timeline and construction schedule will be announced as they become available.
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Campus Improvements Continue Across LSSU
Lake Superior State University recently unveiled two new signs — one at the university's main campus and another at the Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE) — enhancing the university's visibility while complementing ongoing efforts to improve campus curb appeal. The project reflects the dedication of LSSU's Facilities team and the university's continued investment in its campus.
The new signage is just one part of a broader series of infrastructure improvements taking place this summer. Ongoing projects include repairs to sidewalks, roofs, and other campus facilities, as well as landscaping enhancements that create a more welcoming environment for students, alumni, and visitors.
Additional work remains underway, including efforts to address chiller and air balance issues in Crawford Hall and the Norris Center. The university will continue to share updates as progress is made on these and other campus improvement projects.
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Thank You for Making LSSU’s
Best Fundraising Year Possible
To our alumni, friends, and partners: thank you.
Because of your generosity and belief in Lake Superior State University, LSSU experienced its most successful fundraising year in history. During Fiscal Year 2025-26, donors provided $14.6 million in philanthropic support, a record-setting achievement that represents a 464% increase over the University’s five-year fundraising average.
This milestone reflects the many people who continue to invest in Lake State and its students. Gifts of all sizes are making a difference across campus by supporting scholarships, programs, and strategic priorities that strengthen the Laker experience and create opportunities for future generations.
We are grateful to every donor who helped make this possible. Your support reflects the strength of the LSSU community and the shared belief that Lake State’s best days are ahead.
If you would like to join this effort, please visit our online giving page.
| | CAMPUS/COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT | | |
School of Engineering and Technology
Connects with Community at Soo Locks Engineers Day
The LSSU School of Engineering and Technology joined more than 3,000 attendees at Soo Locks Engineers Day on June 26, sharing information about the university’s engineering programs with prospective students, families, and community members. Staff welcomed visitors throughout the day, answering questions about academic opportunities and hands-on learning at LSSU. Fitz, LSSU’s robot dog, was once again a crowd favorite, drawing plenty of attention to the university’s exhibit.
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Celebrating Community, Sharing Laker Pride!
Lake Superior State University was proud to take home the Best Overall award in the 2026 Sault Ste. Marie Fourth of July Parade!
From the first plans to the final touches, this year's entry was a true team effort. Thank you to everyone who helped build the float, organize the details and represent Lake State along the parade route. A special thank you to Heritage Signs & Graphics for printing and installing the custom wraps that helped bring our float and Beerboni to life.
Thank you as well to the Soo community for the warm support and enthusiastic cheers throughout the parade!
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Lake Superior State University also participated in the 100th National Cherry Festival Parade on July 11, joining the celebration of one of Michigan's most cherished summer traditions.
It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with Laker alumni, families and friends while celebrating this historic milestone. Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello and cheer us on along the parade route.
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Regional Center Graduates Earn
LSSU Degrees Close to Home
Six Upper Peninsula residents recently earned bachelor's degrees from Lake Superior State University through the University's Escanaba/Iron Mountain Regional Center, which offers baccalaureate degree programs on Bay College campuses.
The graduates were recognized during LSSU's commencement ceremony on May 2 in Sault Ste. Marie.
Graduates included:
- Isabella Norden of Escanaba, Bachelor of Arts in English Language Arts Teaching (Grades 5-12)
- Rayna Silverstein of Norway, Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration–Management
- Monica Chartier of Iron Mountain, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration–Management
- Trever Englund of Escanaba, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Accounting-Finance minor
- Reagan Erickson of Iron Mountain, Bachelor of Science in Teacher Education (PreK-3 concentration)
- Robin Schafer of Gladstone, Bachelor of Science in Teacher Education (PreK-3 concentration)
Norden and Schafer graduated summa cum laude, earning cumulative grade-point averages between 3.90 and 4.00. Erickson and Silverstein graduated magna cum laude with GPAs between 3.70 and 3.89, while Chartier earned cum laude honors with a GPA between 3.50 and 3.69.
Students completed their coursework through LSSU's Escanaba/Iron Mountain Regional Centers in partnership with Bay College, allowing them to earn an LSSU bachelor's degree while remaining in their local communities.
"Completing my degree through the Regional Center allowed me to stay local while pursuing my goal of becoming a teacher. Staying close to home saved me a significant amount of money and made earning my degree more accessible. I am especially grateful for Dr. Chad Barbour, whose guidance and support had a meaningful impact on my experience and helped prepare me for my career in education," Norden said.
The Regional Center partnership continues to expand access to higher education across the Upper Peninsula, providing students with the opportunity to earn an LSSU degree while balancing work, family, and community commitments close to home.
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School of Biological Sciences
Gabrielle Woodard (Biology) is conducting her field research this summer by collecting freshwater sponges and water samples at Perch Lake and Carp River. Her senior thesis proposal, The Relationship between Silica and Freshwater Sponges in the Upper Peninsula (UP) of Michigan, is being supervised by Dr. Barbara Evans. Silica analysis for the project will be completed with Professor Benjamin Southwell in the Superior Analytics Lab.
During the development of her proposal, Gabby also collaborated with Dr. Paul Kelso to identify potential silica bearing bedrock within the UP watersheds. In addition to her research, Gabby is a member of the LSSU swim team and serves as an officer of the LSSU Aquaculture Club
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School of Chemistry, Environmental , and Geosciences
Hailey Burd (Forensic Chemistry) is assessing the effects of copper contamination from plumbing on fish tissue. She is working with Dr. Barbara Evans to modify fixative procedures for light microscopy that allows the samples to be viewed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). She is also working with Dr. Derek Wright in LSSU’s MASC Lab.
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School of Criminal Justice, Fire Science, and Emergency Services
The 58th cohort of Lake Superior State University’s MCOLES Academy successfully completed all academy requirements and celebrated their graduation on June 25 at LSSU. The ceremony recognized the graduates' commitment to rigorous academic and practical training in law enforcement. All members of the cohort have already secured employment with law enforcement agencies across Michigan, including several local departments, reflecting the strong reputation of the Academy and the continued demand for well-prepared public safety professionals.
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The Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE)
Whittemore-Prescott Elementary fifth graders (Whittemore is located in Michigan's northeastern Lower Peninsula) recently stepped outside the classroom for an overnight Great Lakes Field Exploration. During their visit to the LSSU Center for Freshwater Research and Education, students got a hands-on look at freshwater science while learning more about Michigan’s Great Lakes, natural resources, and aquatic ecosystems. The trip gave students a chance to connect what they’ve been learning in class with real-world experiences they won’t soon forget.
To read more about their adventure, check out the story in the Up North Voice here.
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School of Engineering and Technology
LSSU students and faculty/staff recently represented the university at Automate 2026 in Chicago, the largest robotics and automation event in North America. FANUC America sponsored an LSSU booth at the event, providing an opportunity for the university to highlight its hands-on learning opportunities, senior projects, and industry partnerships.
A team of six students and five faculty/staff members connected with high school educators and students, alumni, and industry professionals interested in student projects, internships, and equipment support. The pizza roll demonstration from the LSRD senior project and Fitz, LSSU’s robot dog, were among the highlights, drawing plenty of attention throughout the event.
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Lake Superior State Welcomes Mike Brown as Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach
Mike Brown joined Women’s Basketball Head Coach Grace Howrigon’s staff at Lake Superior State as Assistant Coach in July 2026. Bringing a strong background in collegiate student-athlete development, Brown adds valuable experience to the Lakers’ program.
Brown spent the 2025-26 season as Player Development Coach at Lamar University, helping the team to a 20-win season, a No. 2 seed in the Southland Conference Tournament, and a berth in the WNIT. Previously, he served as Assistant Coach at North American University, where he helped lead the men’s basketball program to a 22-win season and the USCAA National Championship.
From 2020-25, Brown served as Head Coach and Director of Basketball Operations for HF Elite & FOE Sports Academy, coaching on the Nike EYBL Circuit and helping develop more than 200 collegiate athletes. Throughout his career, he has worked with NBA, WNBA, overseas, and collegiate players, including 18 1,000-point scorers and six 2,000-point scorers.
A graduate of William Carey University, Brown played basketball for Coach Steve Knight and was part of an SSAC Conference Championship team that reached the NAIA Final Four. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing & Management.
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Support Laker Teams Through a Team Meal Sponsorship
Some of the best memories our Laker student-athletes make happen around the dinner table. Team meals provide opportunities to connect, build relationships, and strengthen the team culture that carries them through the season.
This season, Laker Athletics is inviting alumni and supporters to be part of those moments by sponsoring a team meal. Your support helps create these valuable team experiences, allows athletic resources to be directed where they are needed most, and shows our current student-athletes that the Laker family believes in and supports them.
A great example of this impact is the upcoming trip for Laker Women's Basketball to Italy in August. The team will compete against international competition while creating lasting memories and strengthening their bond. Team meals will be an important part of that experience, giving players time to come together and continue building their team chemistry.
Interested in supporting a Laker team? Sponsor a team meal today and help create experiences that bring our teams closer together. Click here to choose the team you would like to support.
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Register Now for the Women's Basketball Golf Outing
Mark your calendar for the Lake Superior State Women's Basketball Golf Outing on Saturday, September 26! This annual fundraiser brings alumni, fans, and friends together for a great day on the course while supporting the Lakers.
Registration is now open for golfers, sponsorships, auction donations, and other opportunities to support the program. Don't miss your chance to be part of one of the team's signature fundraising events.
View event details and register here.
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Join us for the Classic Bash on August 6th
The Lake State Classic is now sold out, but the celebration is just getting started! Join fellow Lakers for the Classic Bash on Thursday, August 6, at Wild Bluff, sponsored by O'Connor's of Pickford and The Calcaterra Family Foundation.
Festivities begin at 6:00pm. with complimentary snacks and beer, plus a cash bar. Whether you're playing in the Classic or simply want to reconnect with friends and fellow alumni, everyone is welcome. We can't wait to see you there!
RSVP for the Classic Bash by clicking here.
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Great Lakes State Weekend Returns October 23–24
A longtime LSSU tradition since 1995, Great Lakes State Weekend brings Lakers together for a weekend celebration of campus spirit and pride. The weekend will include favorites like Laker Hockey vs. Bowling Green, the Alumni Awards & Hall of Fame Ceremony, a Tailgate Party, and activities for students, families, alumni, and friends.
Registration and additional event details will be available on the Great Lake State Weekend website toward the end of August. Check here for updates as they become available.
| | Photo of the Month: This Photo of the Month features Michigan State Representative Parker Fairbairn (center) during his July 10 visit to Lake Superior State University. Pictured with him are LSSU Chief Financial Officer Trevor Liddle (left) and LSSU President Dr. David Travis (right). | | | | |
