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 Achieves Record Fundraising Total of $3.6M
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors, Lake Superior State University just closed out its best fundraising year ever, raising $3.6 million in support of scholarships, programs, and athletics.
Leading the way was an anonymous $1.5 million gift to support Laker Hockey operations, a cornerstone of LSSU pride. Two significant estate gifts also played a major role in this record-breaking year, ensuring long-term support for our students and campus.
Of the total funds raised, 84% directly benefited students through academic scholarships and co-curricular support, 12% supported campus and department needs, and 4% was directed to other priorities across the university.
We’re proud of what we accomplished, but even more grateful for what it means: more opportunities for students, stronger programs, and a brighter future for LSSU. To all who gave — thank you. Your support is making a difference, and we’re deeply grateful you’re part of the Laker family.
| CFRE Hatchery Marks Another Successful Salmon Release | | |
After 18 months of care and hard work, 23,378 salmon raised at the CFRE Fish Hatchery were released into the St. Marys River on May 29th. The release was a coordinated effort involving more than 30 students and staff, all working together to return the fish to their natural habitat.
Earlier that same day, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Platte River State Hatchery — with help from LSSU students — released an additional 50,000 salmon. These fish were originally collected as eggs at the CFRE Fish Hatchery, then transferred to the Platte River State Hatchery. There, they were raised and eventually brought back to the St. Marys River for stocking — making it a landmark day for fish stocking efforts in the region.
This work wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of Cloverland Electric Cooperative, which provides the space and power that keep the CFRE Fish Hatchery running.
Thanks to everyone involved for helping protect and sustain our freshwater ecosystems.
| | | CAMPUS/COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT | | |
Healthcare Professionals Sharpen Clinical Skills at MyMichigan/Superior Simulation Center
The MyMichigan/Superior Simulation Center recently welcomed eight healthcare practitioners for an immersive, hands-on training session aimed at enhancing clinical skills and improving patient outcomes.
Participants included Dr. Gluck (Emergency Medicine) and Dr. DeOliveira (Pediatrics), along with six registered nurses from MyMichigan Sault Hospital. Among the nursing team were two recent BSN graduates from Lake Superior State University: Veronica Steinmetz ’25 and Brooke Moore ’24.
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The group engaged in two high-fidelity simulation scenarios — Neonatal Sepsis with Resuscitation and Pediatric Seizure Management. These realistic exercises provided a safe, controlled environment to practice critical decision-making and life-saving interventions.
This simulation-based training not only builds confidence and preparedness for real-life emergencies, but also reflects the ongoing collaboration between Lake Superior State University and MyMichigan Health — a strong example of how community partnerships can advance healthcare education and patient care.
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Tracy (Haller) West ’86 Named to 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100
Lake Superior State University alumna Tracy (Haller) West ’86 has been named one of the 2025 Tampa Bay Titan 100 honorees. Presented by Titan CEO and headline sponsor Enavate, the Titan 100 recognizes the region’s top CEOs and C-level executives who demonstrate exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. This year’s honorees collectively employ over 235,000 people and generate more than $56 billion in annual revenue.
A proud and active LSSU alumna, Tracy received the Paul Ripley Young Alumnus Award in 2001 and the Lukenda School of Business Distinguished Alumni Award in 2022. She also serves on the Lukenda School of Business Professional Advisory Board. Professionally, Tracy has served as Tournament Director for the PGA TOUR’s Valspar Championship since May 2014, leading the strategic and operational efforts for the event, which is owned by Copperhead Charities and managed by Pro Links Sports.
She will be honored at the Titan 100 awards ceremony on October 30 and will connect with fellow honorees throughout the year. For more information on the Tampa Bay Titan 100 list, click here.
Congratulations to Tracy on this outstanding recognition!
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College of Arts & Sciences
We’re excited to share that Dr. Steven Johnson, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, has been officially promoted to Full Professor, following approval from the Board of Trustees on July 18th.
This is a well-earned recognition of Dean Johnson’s outstanding leadership, dedication, and the positive impact he’s had on our students and the university as a whole. His commitment to excellence both in and out of the classroom has truly made a difference.
Be sure to congratulate Dean Johnson when you see him — his promotion is something we’re all proud of and truly well-deserved.
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LSSU MColes Academy
The 57th cohort of Lake Superior State University’s MCOLES Academy successfully completed
all requirements for the academy, including a 100% pass rate on the Mastery exam.
They celebrated with a graduation ceremony on June 26, 2025. Many graduates have already secured employment with law enforcement agencies across Michigan, including local agencies.
Well done, Lakers!
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LSSU Volleyball Program Unveils 2025 Schedule
The Lake Superior State (LSSU) volleyball program has unveiled its schedule for the 2025 season, as announced by Head Coach Eric Snyder.
The Lakers open the 2025 campaign at the Illinois-Springfield (UIS) Tournament on September 5-6 where they will face Kentucky Wesleyan and the hosts, UIS, on the first day of competition before taking on Quincy the following afternoon. Then, a week later, they will spend three days competing at the University of Minnesota-Mankato where they will battle against Northern State, the hosts MSU-Mankato, Minnesota-Crookston, and their second neutral-site matchup against Quincy.
To read more and view full schedule, click here.
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Laker Hockey Announces Full 2025-26 Schedule
The Lake Superior State (LSSU) hockey program has unveiled its full 2025-26 schedule, as announced by Head Coach Damon Whitten. In addition, season ticket packages for the 2025-26 season are available now for $265 for adults and $160 for children for a 16-game regular-season home schedule. All season packages include first round CCHA playoff tickets as well.
Single-game tickets will cost $17 for adults, $13 for seniors/military, and $9 for children with the exceptions of Superior Series games (Northern Michigan and Michigan Tech) which will cost $25 for adults/seniors/military and $12 for children.
To read more and view full schedule, click here.
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Classic Social is this Thursday, July 31 — Don’t Miss the Kickoff to the Lake State Golf Classic at Wild Bluff
We’re excited to bring back a longtime favorite with a new name — the Classic Social (formerly The Classic Bash) — happening Thursday, July 31 at 6 PM at Wild Bluff Golf Course in Brimley. It’s the perfect way to kick off the 36th Annual Lake State Classic Golf Tournament and Auction — and you don’t have to be playing in the tournament to join us!
This relaxed evening is open to everyone — alumni, friends of LSSU, staff, supporters, and community members. Come out and enjoy free snacks and beer, a cash bar, and great company.
A big thank you to Classic Social sponsors:
- O’Connor’s of Pickford
- The Calcaterra Family Foundation
Donations made during the evening will be matched up to $1,000, thanks to Edward Jones – Financial Advisor Joshua Macdonald and Team Rubinstein/5 Water Realty. Your support helps Laker Athletics and our student-athletes thrive.
Everyone’s welcome — RSVP here and bring a friend!
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2025 Matches on the Mack
Lake Superior State University Volleyball
Join us on Mackinac Island for a one-of-a-kind volleyball weekend, featuring your LSSU Lakers vs. the University of Michigan on Friday, August 22 at 5 PM in the Mackinac Island School Gymnasium.
Pre-Game Social:
Kick off the fun at Horn’s Bar from 3–4:30 PM — RSVP through the link below to join fellow Lakers before the match!
Tickets:
Use the link below to select your preferred option:
- To see only the LSSU match, choose Friday, August 22 from the dropdown menu.
- Weekend passes for both matches are also available.
- Tickets are limited, so don’t wait!
Match Schedule:
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Friday, August 22 – 5:00 PM — Lake Superior State University vs. University of Michigan
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Saturday, August 23 – 12:00 PM — Northern Michigan University vs. Central Michigan University
Be part of this unique event showcasing collegiate volleyball in one of Michigan’s most iconic settings—and cheer on your Lakers in an unforgettable atmosphere!
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Great Lake State Weekend — October 24–25!
We’re looking forward to welcoming alumni, families, and friends back to campus for Great Lake State Weekend 2025, happening October 24–25!
Whether you’re reconnecting with classmates, cheering on the Lakers, or just enjoying the fall colors in Sault Ste. Marie, this is one of our favorite traditions of the year — and we hope it’s one of yours too.
Now’s the time to mark your calendars and start making travel plans. The full schedule of events, along with registration info, will be posted in late August at the link below.
There’s something for everyone, and we can’t wait to see you here!
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Update Us & Stay in the Loop
Stay connected with LSSU by updating your mailing and email address so you don’t miss important news and events. Share your life milestones — career changes, weddings, births, military service, and more — for the next Laker Log Class Notes. And don’t forget to subscribe to alumni emails to get the latest updates, including highlights from events like GLSW!
To stay in touch, click here.
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Laker Pride for your Ride!
Show off your Laker pride wherever you drive with an official LSSU affinity license plate! Offered through the Michigan Secretary of State’s Office as part of their specialty fundraising plate program, this plate lets alumni, fans, and friends represent Lake State on the road. Even better — $25 from each new plate and $10 from every renewal goes directly to the LSSU Alumni Association, helping support key programs and events like Great Lake State Weekend!
| | Photo of the Month: A whole lot of Laker love at the 2025 National Cherry Festival Air Show! L to R: Sage (McDermott) Mrdeza '20 and Dillon Mrdeza '20, who met at Lake State; LSSU Assistant AD, Steve Habusta '02; National Cherry Festival Executive Director, Kat Paye '04; and Deputy Chief of Staff for Senator John Damoose, Dakota Baker '19. | | | | |
