Hillsdale Alumni Newsletter Archives

Charging into March Madness: Former Chargers Make Their Mark in NCAA Tournament

If you ever wondered how Hillsdale College’s motto of “Strength Rejoices in the Challenge” translates to athletics, look no further than Jack Gohlke, ’22. For a couple of days, the Hillsdale grad took over March Madness, otherwise known as the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament.

Ongoing Involvement: Former Healthcare CEO Mark Taylor Remains Engaged with Alma Mater

Mark Taylor, ’74, has had a long and distinguished career as a healthcare administrator, including the role of CEO at several large healthcare organizations. During his time at Hillsdale, he made connections at Hillsdale Hospital, that eventually affected his future career path.

A Passion for Policy: Cassidy Syftestad Klutts’s Mission to Advance Classical Education

To say Cassidy Syftestad Klutts, ’18, is passionate about education is an understatement. After graduating with a degree in American Studies, Klutts is completing her doctoral studies in education reform. Klutts is excited about the future, especially advancing Hillsdale’s K-12 Program.

Hometown Hillsdale: Kathy Petersen, ’95

Kathy Petersen, ’95, is serving the Hillsdale community in more ways than one. After obtaining several nursing degrees, Kathy works as a local FNP-C, and is raising eight children with her husband, Dean of Men Aaron Petersen, ’96, in their beloved Hillsdale.

Front and Center: Jim Beley Directs Legislative Affairs for Congressman Matt Gaetz

For Jim Beley, ’10, a career in politics is a chance to be a part of history. The former director of Presidential Writers under former President Donald Trump helped write, edit, and direct policy, proclamations, and other personal presidential communications from 2017-2020.

Charge On: Rediscovering Hillsdale’s Fight Song

After some conversation and consternation, “Charge On!” was declared the official winner of Hillsdale’s fight song. Written by a man named Jerry H. Bilik, it apparently debuted during the 1968 football season when the “Dales” officially became the “Chargers.”

Hometown Hillsdale: Nick Rorick, ’01

Nick Rorick, ’01, might be new to planting his family’s roots in the city of Hillsdale, Michigan, but he has loved Hillsdale’s small-town feel since he was a student. For Nick and his family, the close nature of the community and the College has helped them call Hillsdale home.

Judge of Character: Eric Tamashasky Works to Improve Justice System

Eric Tamashasky, ’96, the former prosecuting attorney and current magistrate judge for the St. Joseph County Superior Court in Indiana has found his legal career in law enforcement and the justice system far more enriching than his original plan.

Fresh Fingers: Piano Teacher Cate Larsen Bryan is Impacting Iowa

Cate Larsen Bryan, ’06, lets her “fingers do the walking.” Playing and teaching piano isn’t just an interest or a career for the Iowa native, but a way of life.

Finally Finding Those “Lost” Friends

College is where you start with a core of friends, and then expand into a very large contingent of folks by the time you graduate. Graduation comes, and you go your separate ways. The Alumni Office may be able to help our alumni find those “lost” classmates and friends with a new online directory coming in 2024.

Charger Catalyst: Katie Kish Hall Helps Hillsdale Back to Championship Status

Katie Kish Hall, ’19, wasted little time making her mark on the Hillsdale College Softball program. Hall was one of the most decorated players in program history and helped guide the Chargers to a conference championship and NCAA Division II tournament berth.

Hometown Hillsdale: Louise Van Aken Worms, ’71

Louise Worms, ’71, spent over 30 years in the classroom impacting the lives of young children in and around Hillsdale County. She has continuously embodied a kind spirit for children and the Hillsdale community, which she actively supports to this day.