New Irish Dance Club to Debut this Fall
Aquinas College has embraced Irish culture since the early ‘70s. As the only college in Michigan to offer an Irish Studies minor, Aquinas’ interdisciplinary program offers a comprehensive understanding of Irish culture in both historical and contemporary contexts. For more than 40 years, students and faculty have studied in Tully Cross, Ireland, to gain a unique perspective of Irish history and culture.
Starting in fall 2018, students at Aquinas will be able to participate in a new Irish Dance Club. Trained Irish dancers enrolling with previous experience will have the opportunity to continue their love and study of Irish dance, music and culture. Eligible students can earn annual scholarships to join the club team.
Dancers will collaborate and choreograph dances under the direction of Liz Heinzman, TCRG, and showcase these dances at performances and competitions against other teams.
The club will also offer workshops to non-experienced students who would like to learn the basics of Irish dance.
“ Aquinas has embraced Ireland, providing three signature programs that allow students to immerse themselves in the culture through study, experience and dance.”
– President Kevin G. Quinn
Learn more at aquinas.edu/irish-dance.
For information about Aquinas’ Irish Studies program, visit aquinas.edu/irish.
New Major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Starts Fall 2018
A common fascination with the inner workings of a cell bring biologists and chemists together in the overlapping fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. The new Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (BMB) major is excellent preparation for doctoral-level professional training (M.D./D.O./DDS/DVM), which requires an understanding of life at the molecular level.
Students who complete the BMB major will also be exceptionally well equipped for postgraduate study in most biological fields. The extensive laboratory and research components of the program prepare graduates for entry level health sciences and research positions in industry or academia.
The BMB major is jointly sponsored by the departments of biology and health sciences and chemistry. In their first two years, students take a set of core courses designed to provide a solid background in chemical, physical and biological principles. In the following two years, students take advanced courses in chemistry and biology, including specialized BMB courses. Hands-on laboratory work is emphasized throughout the final year of the program, and students capitalize on this experience by completing a mentored independent research project. To learn more, visit aquinas.edu/bmb.
President Quinn on the Road
The Aquinas community welcomed President and First Lady Quinn during their Presidential Welcome Tour, which included eight stops in five different states. The tour offered alumni and friends of the College an opportunity to get to know them as they shared their vision for the institution and answered questions about AQ's future.
Dr. Quinn has a bold vision for Aquinas College and is committed to fulfilling its vital mission.
Visit our Aquinas Alumni and Friends Facebook page to see more photos, and find an event near you.
Stops included: Chicago, Phoenix, New York City and Washington, D.C., as well as four stops in Michigan: Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Detroit and Mackinac Island.
If you are interested in hosting President and First Lady Quinn in your city, contact alumni@aquinas.edu.
Commencement Returned to Campus in 2018
On May 5, 2018, the College held its annual commencement ceremony on campus for the first time since 2009.
Steelcase Inc. President and CEO James Keane delivered the commencement address at the Sturrus Sports & Fitness Center. Mass was celebrated by Most Rev. David J. Walkowiak, bishop of Grand Rapids, at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. Lastly, Sister Maureen Geary, O.P., prioress of the Dominican Sisters Grand Rapids, received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree.