Dee Dee Bridgewater
Ghada R. Alkiek, BBA
Stephen Landon was an important member of the University of Michigan-Flint community. A faculty member who had a distinguished career in set design and Theatre, Stephen was enlisted to help create the staging for the commencement ceremony. His goal was to create an atmosphere that celebrated the academic achievements of the graduating students. The red carpet, elaborate floral arrangements, and the dark blue draping around the arena are all hallmarks of Stephen's work.
In addition to his work on the UM-Flint commencement ceremony, Stephen was a beloved professor. Students describe him as an inspiring teacher who spent countless hours working with them. Under his leadership as Chair of the UM-Flint Theatre Department, the department created inspired performances and community events that were widely praised. Stephen was also very involved in the Flint Community, and just last summer organized a bike ride that celebrated the city of Flint.
Stephen passed away suddenly in July 2012 after years of battling brain cancer. We honor the memory of our dear colleague, teacher, and friend by dedicating the December commencement ceremony in his honor. We are grateful for his many contributions to the rich history of university commencements as well as for his kindness. The generosity of his spirit will never be forgotten.
The following graduates are the recipients of the Maize and Blue Distinguished Scholar Award, the highest academic award bestowed upon the graduates of the University of Michigan-Flint. These awards will be presented at the December 9, 2012 Commencement Ceremony.
Ghada R. Alkiek
Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management
Dakoda J. Ash
Bachelor of Mathematics, Teaching Certificate Program
Oliver A. Darzi
Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology/Biotechnology
Violet A. Gilbert
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Language Arts
Jordan M. Hackett
Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Accounting
Miyako T. Jones
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Software Engineering
Raena L. Kalfayan
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration Mathematics
Abbie G. Lemmon
Bachelor of Arts in English, Specializing in Writing
Tam T. Ly
Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration
Tiara T. Newton
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Shayna L. Pichette
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Sarah E. Stroup
Bachelor of Arts in History
Gayle K. Vandercook
Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Professional Communication