BENTON TOWNSHIP — Lake Michigan College has announced the student, faculty and alumna recipients of its 2017 TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) awards.

The TRIO SSS is a federally funded program that provides focused academic assistance to first generation, low-income students or those with a disability to help them successfully graduate and continue their education.

Services include intensive academic advising, coaching in study skills development and financial literacy, tutoring in English, Math and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) coursework, and help with textbooks and technology. Participants are encouraged to volunteer in their communities and mentor other LMC students.

Student of the Year, Rolando Hernandez

Rolando Hernandez, of Eau Claire, was named 2017 Student of the Year, earning him a $750 scholarship from the LMC Foundation. The award honors students who have demonstrated leadership, academic achievement, volunteerism and overall excellence in the SSS program.

In addition to academic achievement including one semester on the LMC’s President’s list and two semesters on the LMC’s Dean’s list, Rolando was chosen twice as a student speaker for the LMC Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast, works as a resident assistant at LMC’s Beckwith Hall, tutors on campus and assisted in a holiday drive for Emergency Shelter Services.

A 2017 LMC graduate, Rolando received an associate in science degree with honors and has been accepted to Grand Valley State University, where he will study in the medical field. 

Nancy Johnson, SSS Director recognized Hernandez for his leadership.

“Mr. Hernandez was unanimously chosen by SSS staff for this award,” Johnson said. “Motivated, bright and a team player with a passion for helping others, he represents qualities which assist individuals in being successful in college and in life.” 

Alumni Speaker, Dr.  Andrea Davis

Dr. Andrea Davis is this year’s SSS Alumni Speaker.

An alumna of Coloma High School and 2001 Lake Michigan College Honors graduate, she participated in LMC’s SSS program before transferring to Oakwood University, where she earned a bachelor of arts in psychology, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She holds a master of education in educational psychology from Wayne State University and graduated in 2016 from the University of Memphis with a doctor of philosophy in educational psycholowgy and research.

Her research presented at local and national conferences focused on adolescent behavior and development.

Davis is an independent educational/psychological consultant. She actively participates in her faith community and is a Soup Kitchen volunteer.

Outstanding Contributor Award, Katja “Kay” Chalus

Financial Aid Coordinator of Scholarships and Grants, Kay Chalus, was awarded the Outstanding Contributor Award.

This award recognizes LMC employees who impact student success by working with SSS participants directly or behind the scenes. Chalus is a LMC alumna, who graduated with honors and went on to earn a bachelor of business administration from Siena Heights University.

Johnson said Chalus is known for her professionalism.

“Ms. Chalus is viewed by both students and staff as a knowledgeable, approachable professional who is responsive to student needs,” Johnson said. “She assists students in improving their financial literacy regarding college financial resources and the responsibility of being an informed and proactive student consumer.”

For more information, visit lakemichigancollege.edu/sss or contact Nancy Johnson, Student Support Services Director at (269) 927-6848.