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The Online Magazine for Alumni and Friends of Siena Heights University
Why I come to the Adrian campus—and you should, too!
By Jerry Peterson ’01—Lansing Center
A large number of Siena Heights alumni (myself included) completed their studies without ever setting foot on the main campus in Adrian. This is the result of SHU’s success developing a nationally recognized online program as well as a network of remote learning centers where students can attend classes locally.
I can think of three great reasons to make the effort to go the main campus; and I have availed myself of all them. The first of these was to be part of the graduation ceremonies. I had never thought I would obtain a degree; so when I did, I wanted to note that accomplishment with a celebration and not just add another line on my resume.
Secondly, I wanted to feel the pride of attending a collegiate football Homecoming as an alumnus. Although the football program is relatively new, it has all the festivities including the makings of a fun and boisterous tailgate tradition. SHU has additional activities before and after the game to make a day of it.
“Rising Stars” is a regular feature in Reflections. It profiles Siena Heights alumni who have graduated within the past 10 years and who excel in their careers, occupations or community service accomplishments. To be considered for “Rising Stars” in an upcoming issue of Reflections, fill out the online form at www.sienaheights.edu/risingstars. Those who are selected to be included in an upcoming issue of the magazine will be contacted by the Reflections staff.
Larry Weeks
Graduation year: 2008, Adrian.
Current title/position: Chief of Police, Eaton Rapids, Mich.
What Larry is Doing: At the time he attended Siena Heights, he was the chief of Police for the City of Morenci. After graduation he added director of EMS to his title. He was a member and served as President of the Lenawee County
Police Chiefs Association, member and past president of the Morenci Kiwanis Club and delivery driver for Meals on Wheels. In 2013, he attended the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy at the bureau’s head-
quarters in Quantico, Va. In late 2013, he accepted a position as chief of Police for the City of Eaton Rapids.
My favorite moment/story while a student at Siena Heights was: “The assignment from World Religions class regarding research into religions, not my own. I met with individuals at a mosque in Ann Arbor and interviewed their community outreach person. It was extremely educational and enlightening.”
My favorite person at Siena Heights was: Judge Margaret Noe.
My ultimate goal in life is: “Great family, great job and lots of faith. I’m there.”
My best piece of advice for SHU students is: “Having attended SHU at a later stage in life, I would encourage others not to be afraid of returning to school late. Embrace the opportunities around you to grow and learn. It’s never too late.”
“Rising Stars” is a new feature in Reflections. It profiles Siena Heights University alumni who have graduated within the past 10 years and who excel in their careers, occupations or community service accomplishments. To be considered for the “Rising Stars” piece in an upcoming issue of Reflections Magazine, please fill out the online form at www.sienaheights.edu/risingstars. Those who are selected to be included in an upcoming issue of the magazine will be contacted by the Reflections staff.
Amy Francoeur
Graduation year: 2009
Current title/position: Hospice Regional Director, Great Lakes Caring.
What Amy is doing: A Registered Nurse, she received an offer to join Great Lakes Caring’s sales/marketing team in 2007. As a Patient Care Coordinator for its Adrian branch location, she worked with the community, physicians and healthcare facilities to educate and coordinate medical home health care services. In January 2013, she was promoted to Sales Training Team Leader, and was given the opportunity to facilitate the training and onboarding of new and current sales team members. In August 2013 she was again was promoted to Manager of Business Development for GLC’s Jackson and Adrian sales teams. During her time working in Lenawee County, she has had the privilege of working with older adult population, their families and health care providers. She has been active member of the Lenawee Department on Aging’s Older Adult Coalition, chairing the Selma Larson Caregiver Conference since 2008. She also is a member of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s Committee, a Board Member of Daybreak Adult Day Services, volunteer at numerous Lenawee County Senior Center activities and is an active member of the Adrian Chamber of Commerce. In April 2014, she received another promotion to her current position for HLC’s Ohio operations. She said “it is truly an honor and a privilege to be part of such a quality, innovative and caring company.”
Favorite moment/story while a student at SHU was: The flexibility of Distance Learning allowed me to “attend” my classes anywhere, even while on vacation in Las Vegas!
Favorite person at SHU was: Former Director of Academic Advising, Rene Teater.
Ultimate goal in life: To educate everyone on what the Hospice benefit is and how it helps patients and their loved ones at the end of life so that the word is no longer feared by those who hear it, but rather embraced.
Best advice for SHU students is: Never pass up an opportunity to learn. Set goals and work hard to achieve them. You can do anything you set your mind to!
