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! | |
"Raising State": New Documentary Series to Spotlight Lake Superior State University at a Defining Moment
Some places live in memories of what once was. Others fight to become greater than ever before.
This summer, cameras begin rolling at Lake Superior State University for Raising State, a new documentary series that captures a university, a community, and the people who refuse to let either fade into the background.
Set against the backdrop of Michigan's eastern Upper Peninsula, the series will explore the deep connection between Lake Superior State University and Sault Ste. Marie, a relationship shaped by generations of shared history and an intertwined future.
"LSSU has long been defined by people who believe deeply in this place and its potential. Raising State is a chance to tell the honest story of this campus and community that continues to choose resilience and opportunity when those things matter more than ever," said Dr. David Travis, President of Lake Superior State University.
On a campus approaching its 80th anniversary, Lake State stands apart. Built on the grounds of a former military fort, LSSU has long carried a spirit of resilience and reinvention. Raising State will explore the culture, traditions, challenges, and ambitions that define Lake Superior State University, while examining what it truly means for a small public university to fight for relevance, growth, and recognition in today's rapidly changing world.
The series centers on people: faculty and staff who continue investing in Lake State students, alumni carrying Laker pride into industries and communities across the country, and local leaders working to strengthen Sault Ste. Marie. It also follows current students balancing ambition, academics, research, work, uncertainty, and a desire to contribute positively to the future.
"What stood out to us was the authenticity of the people and the connection between LSSU and the surrounding community. There is a real human story here that feels much larger than one campus," said Kyle McCutcheon, Series Producer.
While Laker Hockey remains an important part of campus culture, Raising State extends far beyond Taffy Abel Arena. The series will capture the rhythm and feel of everyday life at LSSU and throughout Sault Ste. Marie. From classrooms and labs to student organizations, local businesses, waterfront activities, and late-night conversations that reveal the commitment and determination driving the community forward.
The production aims to present an honest portrait of Lake Superior State University. Rather than a polished overview, Raising State is a real look at the people and places behind the institution, seeking to resonate with anyone and everyone invested in the future of higher education and regional communities.
Filming will take place across campus and throughout the surrounding community beginning this summer. Participation in filming is entirely voluntary, with opportunities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and local leaders to participate as production continues.
Additional details, including release timeline and distribution, will be announced as the project progresses.
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Orientations Set Sail at LSSU
The first New Student Orientation of Summer 2026 is in the books, and Lake Superior State University was excited to welcome its newest Laker families to campus.
Faculty, staff, student leaders, and campus partners came together to help welcome the newest Lakers to campus. Students had the opportunity to connect with academic programs, meet campus leadership, build their class schedules, and get to know fellow Lakers. Parents and supporters participated in a dedicated orientation program that included a tour of the LSSU Center for Freshwater Research and Education and a conversation with University President Dr. David Travis at the President’s House.
Thank you to everyone who attended and to the many individuals working behind the scenes to make these events possible. We look forward to welcoming more future Lakers throughout the summer.
Upcoming Orientation Dates
- In Person: June 26, July 20, and August 17
- Virtual: July 8, July 14, and July 29
For more information and to register, visit www.lssu.edu/orientation.
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LSSU’s Jim Devaprasad Named
2026 A3 Educator of the Year
The Association for Advancing Automation (A3), a leading global advocate for robotics and automation technologies, has named Jim Devaprasad of Lake Superior State University (LSSU) the recipient of the 2026 A3 Educator of the Year Award, sponsored by Siemens. Devaprasad was selected for his decades of leadership in robotics and automation education, his deep industry engagement and his success preparing students to thrive in real-world automation careers. He and his students will be part of Automate 2026 in Chicago, where LSSU will exhibit in the Education Pavilion.
A professor in LSSU’s School of Engineering and Technology, Devaprasad has spent 40 years helping shape the next generation of automation professionals. He serves as director of the university’s Center for Advanced Robotics Engineering and has helped secure more than $3 million in robotics and automation equipment for the center, along with more than $2 million in grants for engineering programs. He also helped advance LSSU’s pioneering robotics programs, including the first nationally ABET-accredited bachelor’s degree in robotics engineering technology in the United States. His students gain hands-on experience in areas such as PLCs, robotics programming and simulation, machine vision, robot safety, collaborative robotics, mobile robotics and systems integration, with many graduates going on to leadership roles across the automation industry.
Read the full story here.
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40th Anniversary of Atlantic Salmon Release
Celebrated with Stocking of 50,000 Fish
A longstanding partnership between Lake Superior State University (LSSU), Cloverland Electric Cooperative (CEC), and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) marked a major milestone on June 4 with the release of 50,000 baby Atlantic salmon into the St. Marys River.
The event celebrated four decades of collaboration that has helped sustain local fisheries, expand freshwater research and education opportunities, and strengthen community connections to the Great Lakes ecosystem. Ashley Moerke, Dean of LSSU's College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education and Executive Director of the Center for Freshwater Research and Education (CFRE), highlighted the importance of the partnership and the continued commitment of all three organizations to the hatchery program.
Remarks were also delivered by Michael Heise, CEO of Cloverland Electric Cooperative, Aaron Switzer, Fish Production Manager for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and Dr. David Travis, President of Lake Superior State University, each recognizing the program's success and impact over the past 40 years.
During the ceremony, the 2026 Atlantic Salmon class was formally named in recognition of the partners' shared commitment to conservation, research, and stewardship of the Great Lakes. Guests also toured the hatchery and learned about fisheries management and freshwater research.
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According to program leaders, Atlantic salmon raised in local waters have strong survival rates and are among the most successful stocked salmon species in the Great Lakes. Research has shown that Atlantic salmon in the St. Marys River have a return-to-creel rate of 5.5% to 6.0%, meaning they are frequently caught by anglers after being stocked.
The annual release continues a tradition that benefits both the local ecosystem and recreational fishing opportunities while engaging residents, visitors, students, and anglers in Great Lakes conservation.
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Northern Diversified Solutions Award
Established to Support LSSU Students
Kyle Marinkovich, founder and CEO of Northern Diversified Solutions in Burnsville, Minnesota, visited Lake Superior State University on April 9 to meet with students and share his perspective on the growing cannabis industry.
During his visit, Marinkovich discussed internship opportunities, spoke about Minnesota's evolving cannabis market, and presented the work of Northern Diversified Solutions to students in Dr. Michelle Jarvie's Protected Horticulture class. The visit gave students an opportunity to learn directly from an industry leader and explore potential career paths in the cannabis and hemp sectors.
Marinkovich's connection with LSSU students will continue through the establishment of the Northern Diversified Solutions Award, a new annual scholarship beginning in the 2026-27 academic year.
The scholarship will provide a $1,200 award each year to a full-time LSSU student and represents the first year of a three-year commitment from Northern Diversified Solutions. Preference will be given to students majoring in Cannabis Chemistry or Cannabis Business, as well as students with financial need and ties to the Great Lakes region.
Marinkovich founded Northern Diversified Solutions in 2019 after a career spanning more than two decades in food science, ingredient innovation, and supply chain development. The company develops hemp-derived functional ingredients for the food and beverage industry and works with beverage brands and co-packers across the country. He also serves on Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management Cannabis Advisory Council and on the board of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable.
In addition to supporting students pursuing careers in the cannabis industry, the scholarship recognizes the importance of the Great Lakes region and the industries that have helped shape its communities. Preference will also be given to students whose families have connections to fields such as agriculture, shipping, railroads, mining, steel production, forestry, and food systems.
The Northern Diversified Solutions Award reflects a shared commitment to preparing students for emerging industries while helping make a Lake Superior State education more accessible. The university is grateful to Kyle Marinkovich and Northern Diversified Solutions for their investment in LSSU students and their future success.
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LSSU Celebrates Historic Milestone as First
Professional MBA Cohort Graduates This Summer
Lake Superior State University’s Lake Superior State University is proud to celebrate a major milestone this summer as the first cohort of students graduates from the newly established Professional MBA Program at the Lukenda School of Business. (Pictured above L-R: Kathleen Spencer, Justin Pollard, Brendan Adams, Joseph Nolan, Jesston Whitley, Joseph Barr, Samantha Lee, Nikita Becks.)
This graduating class represents more than the completion of a degree — it marks the successful launch of a forward-looking MBA program designed specifically for working professionals seeking to advance their leadership, strategic thinking, and business expertise while balancing career and personal responsibilities.
Since its launch, the Professional MBA program has focused on providing a flexible, high-quality graduate business education through a fully online format that allows students from a wide range of professional backgrounds and geographic locations to pursue their MBA while continuing to work full-time. The program emphasizes practical application, leadership development, strategic decision-making, and real-world business problem solving across today’s rapidly changing business environment.
The members of this first cohort have demonstrated resilience, professionalism, collaboration, and determination throughout their journey. Many balanced demanding careers, family responsibilities, and personal commitments while completing rigorous graduate-level coursework in areas such as strategic management, leadership, economics, finance, global business, organizational design, and business execution.
The success of this inaugural cohort highlights the growing momentum of graduate business education at LSSU. Even as the first cohort prepares to graduate this summer, the second cohort is already progressing toward graduation in 2027, and planning is actively underway for the third cohort, which will begin in Fall 2026.
The continued growth of the program reflects increasing demand for accessible, career-focused graduate education that prepares professionals to lead organizations, manage change, and compete in today’s global economy.
The Professional MBA program also represents an important step forward for the Lukenda School of Business as it continues expanding opportunities for students, alumni, regional employers, and business leaders seeking advanced professional development.
As we celebrate the achievements of our first graduating MBA cohort, we look forward to seeing the impact these graduates will make within their organizations, communities, and industries.
Interested in joining a future MBA cohort? Visit LSSU MBA Program to learn more about the Professional MBA program at Lake Superior State University. Deadline is July 15, 2026 — Make a change in your life!
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Dr. Alexei Iretski Honored Upon Retirement and Named Professor Emeritus
Members of the LSSU community gathered to wish Dr. Alexei Iretski farewell and best wishes upon retirement.
After 25 years of service, we thank Alexei for his dedicated service within the Department of Chemistry and beyond. The LSSU Board of Trustees honored Dr. Iretski as a Professor Emeritus at their May 15, 2026 meeting.
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Dr. Rob Kipka and Co-Authors Advance Toward Publication in American Mathematical Monthly
Dr. Rob Kipka and his co-authors recently submitted revisions to their manuscript, Ritt, Gronwall, and Differentiation with Respect to a Parameter, in response to reviewer feedback from the American Mathematical Monthly. The Monthly is a highly regarded, peer-reviewed journal with a broad readership in the mathematical community. The authors are encouraged by the revisions they made and are optimistic that they will address the reviewers’ concerns. They are hopeful that the paper will ultimately be accepted for publication in this journal.
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Dr. Kapuscinski Appointed to Michigan DNR Lake Superior Citizens Fishery Advisory Committee
Dr. Kevin Kapuscinski was recently appointed to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Lake Superior Citizens Fishery Advisory Committee and participated in his first committee meeting on April 8 in Marquette.
The committee is charged with reviewing and providing input on fishery goals, objectives, and management plans for Lake Superior. By representing the diverse interests of citizens throughout the Lake Superior basin, committee members help the DNR shape the future direction of fisheries management and stewardship in the region.
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Honoring Leadership and Excellence:
Joseph Nolan Named 2026
Outstanding MBA Graduate
Joseph Nolan was selected as the 2026 Outstanding MBA Graduate at Lake Superior State University. This award recognizes exceptional academic achievement, leadership, professionalism, and the ability to apply business knowledge in meaningful and impactful ways within an organization and the broader community.
A native of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, Joseph previously earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting – 150 Hour Program from LSSU in 2017. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the Chippewa-Luce-Mackinac Community Action Agency, where he continues to make a positive impact throughout the region through his leadership and commitment to community service.
Throughout the MBA program, Joseph consistently demonstrating strategic thinking,
professionalism, and leadership excellence. As a CPA and executive leader, he brought valuable real-world insight and experience into the classroom environment and exemplified the mission of the Professional MBA program.
Congratulations, Joseph, on this well-deserved recognition and achievement!
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Austin Lowes ’12 Reappointed to
Michigan Community Service Commission
LSSU alumnus Austin Lowes ’12, chairperson of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians and president of the United Tribes of Michigan, has been reappointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to the Michigan Community Service Commission as a representative of Native American Tribes. Lowes, of Sault Ste. Marie, will serve a term commencing October 2, 2026, and expiring October 1, 2029.
Previously, Lowes worked as a medical social worker for MyMichigan Medical Center. As a social worker, he worked with several communities, including the Sault Tribe, the Flathead Indian Reservation in Montana, and the Bay Mills Indian Community. Lowes earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Lake Superior State University in 2012 and later earned a Master of Social Work from Michigan State University.
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LSSU Alum Michael Perkins '13
Promoted to Lead State’s Only MSP Outpost
LSSU alumnus Michael Perkins '13, has been promoted to uniform sergeant at the Michigan State Police Manistique Outpost. A 2013 graduate of LSSU's criminal justice program, Perkins previously served as a trooper in Manistique and has returned to lead operations at the state's only MSP outpost.
Established in 2019, the Manistique Outpost is a unique hybrid model that operates as its own MSP worksite while receiving support from the Gladstone Post. Unlike a traditional detachment, the outpost allows troopers to be assigned directly to Manistique, helping provide consistent law enforcement coverage throughout Schoolcraft County. As sergeant, Perkins will oversee outpost operations and support the troopers serving the community he has long called home.
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College of Health and Emergency Responders
On April 16, students from the Nursing, Paramedic, Criminal Justice, and Fire Science programs participated in an interprofessional simulation at the Superior Simulation Center alongside LSSU faculty, staff, and community first responders. The exercise centered on a simulated mass casualty event, challenging students to provide coordinated patient care from the scene of the accident through transport and treatment in a simulated hospital setting.
The experience allowed students to apply discipline-specific knowledge while strengthening the cross-professional communication and teamwork skills essential to emergency response and patient care. This collaborative event highlights the hands-on learning, interdisciplinary engagement, and strong partnerships that define these programs and the LSSU community.
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Lukenda School of Business
The Lukenda School of Business inducted two students into the international business honor society, Delta Mu Delta, for spring 2026.
Charles Johnson graduated in May with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics. He has accepted a position at Central Savings Bank in Sault Ste. Marie, MI as a Controller. Charles is from DePere, Wisconsin.
Julie Heslip recently completed her junior year and is pursuing a degree in Business Administration-Marketing. She is from Linden, Michigan.
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College of Business, Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics
Dr. Bridgette Russell and Dr. Jennifer Gorman from the School of Computer Science and Mathematics, Kelsey Emmanuel from Library and Academic Services, and Dean Mindy McCready attended the Gateway Course Innovation Summary in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan on May 14–15.
This event was part of Michigan College Access Network’s Gateway Course Redesign Faculty Academy, a collaborative initiative that a team from LSSU has participated in over the past year to improve student success in mathematics courses.
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College of Great Lakes Ecology and Education
Dr. Kevin Kapuscinski led eight LSSU students on an immersive, 10-day field experience to South Carolina as part of a new course titled Coastal Fishes of the Southeastern US. This field component of the course was co-taught with Dr. Derek Crane (Coastal Carolina University), and co-attended by eight of his students. Students sampled 57 different fish species, ranging in size from a ½ inch long Sheepshead to a 12 foot long Tiger Shark. Students also interacted with local wildlife, toured Hobcaw Barony, Bears Bluff National Fish Hatchery, and the South Carolina Aquarium, and experienced South Carolina’s culture, history, and cuisine.
Pictured are students displaying four large Red Drum caught longlining (top left); pulling up a 7-foot Sandbar Shark that ate a Sharpnose Shark caught on the long line (top center); touring Hobcaw Barony (top right); American Alligator (bottom left); Noel Black hoisting a Flathead Catfish (bottom center); and Brenden Conger getting ready to release a Sandbar Shark (bottom right).
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Laker Student-Athletes Star On GLIAC All-Acadmic Lists
Lake Superior State University's athletic excellence extends beyond the field of play. Laker student-athletes stand out in the classroom, and many earned recognition from the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in the league's All-Academic Teams, released on June 11 by the league.
To qualify for the GLIAC All-Academic teams, student-athletes must meet criteria with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or greater. Additionally, they must be in their second full year at a member institution. Student-athletes with a GPA of 3.50 or better qualify for GLIAC Academic Excellence teams.
45 Lakers, across GLIAC, CCHA and ACHA competitions, posted a GPA of 3.5 or better, with 23 registering a 4.0. Women's Track and Field led all athletic teams at LSSU with a 3.57 GPA. The following LSSU student-athletes earned All-Academic and All-Academic Excellence honors. Teams are listed alphabetically by season of competition, and student-athletes are listed alphabetically. Years listed are academic years, not necessarily years of athletic eligibility.
To see the list, click here.
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Men's Basketball: Lakers Announce 2025/26 Team Awards
Lake Superior State men’s basketball team announced its 2025–26 team award winners at its annual end-of-season banquet., recognizing the team's top contributors over the past year. Those recognized include (left to right): Kendall Smith, Harrison Sorrelle, Drew Hess, Karter Richards Marcus Harris, Nino Carter-Smith, Omar Suleiman, and Peter Nwoke.
Click here to read more details about their awards.
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Women's Basketball Announces Golf Outing
Join Lake Superior State's Women's Basketball team for its 2026 Golf Outing, scheduled for September 26!
Register online now for golf, sponsorships, auction donations, and other opportunities to support the program at this marquee summer fundraiser.
See all the events details and register here.
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Lake State Day at the Tigers on July 25th
Join fellow Lakers on Saturday, July 25, at 1:10pm for our annual Lake Superior State University Day at Comerica Park!
Before the game, stop by our pre-game alumni social at 12:00pm at Comerica Landing in right field. It's a great opportunity to connect with fellow alumni, friends, and members of the Laker community before first pitch.
Tickets in the LSSU Hospitality Block are now sold out, but additional game tickets are still available in Right Field Sections 102–106 through the link below. All Lakers attending the game are invited to join us at the pre-game social.
If you previously purchased tickets through the LSSU Hospitality Block, your tickets will be emailed approximately one week before game day.
To purchase game tickets click here.
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37th Annual Lake State Classic
Join us for the 37th Annual Lake State Classic Golf Tournament on Friday, August 7, at Wild Bluff Golf Course in Brimley. Sponsored by Fudge du Locke, the event supports Lake Superior State University and Laker Athletics. The day begins with breakfast at 8am, followed by a 9am shotgun start for the four-person scramble. Golfers will enjoy special events on the course, lunch, and a day of friendly competition, all while supporting Laker student-athletes.
The celebration starts the night before with the Classic Bash on Thursday, August 6, at the Wild Bluff Pavilion. Beginning at 6pm, guests can enjoy food, drinks, and a fun evening with fellow Lakers and supporters. Special thanks to Classic Bash sponsors O'Connor's of Pickford and the Calcaterra Family Foundation for their support.
For more information, to register your team, or to become a sponsor, click here.
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Great Lake State Weekend is happening October 23–24
A longtime LSSU tradition since 1995, GLSW brings the campus community together for a homecoming-style celebration of Laker pride, including events such as Laker Hockey vs. Bowling Green, the Alumni Awards & Hall of Fame Ceremony, a Tailgate Party, and activities for students, families, alumni, and friends.
Check here for ongoing updates as they become available.
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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 Great Lake State Weekend!
To stay in touch, click here.
| | Click here for more information on ordering your Laker License Plate! | | Photo of the Month: This Photo of the Month captures an unexpected Lake State connection abroad. While traveling through France and Italy together with their families, LSSU Senior Director of Advancement Andrew Rubinstein and LSSU Professor Edoardo Sarda (pictured here with his son Massi) unexpectedly crossed paths with LSSU General Engineering student Trenton Packer on the Sorrento Coast of Italy. From Sault Ste. Marie to southern Italy, Lakers seem to find each other wherever they go! | | | | |
