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October 6, 2021, Adrian, Michigan – Four members of the Siena Heights University community will be honored for their contributions and commitment values as the University opens its Homecoming Weekend, October 14-17, 2021. The Alumni Awards Ceremony, free and open to the community, is at 4:00 p.m. Friday, October 15, 2021, in Rueckert Auditorium.

Julianne Dolan

Julianne Dolan, Class of 1976, of Adrian, is the recipient of the St. Dominic Award for her commitment to Christian education in family, school, or community. A long-time theater educator, working for Adrian Public Schools, she became the district’s first Fine Arts Director. She directs shows at the Croswell Opera House in Adrian and volunteers for local arts-related events. 

Angela Edward

Angela Edward, Class of 2009, of Jackson, Michigan, is the recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Award in recognition of outstanding professional achievements and/or volunteer contributions to promote Siena Heights positively, as well as for her demonstration of strong leadership characteristics and her service as a role model. She is a social worker at Thome PACE, an organization that provides services to the elderly to enable them to maintain an independent lifestyle. She won the 2020 Jackson Community Big Sister of the Year Award.

C. Patrick Palmer

C. Patrick Palmer, of Bradenton, Florida, will receive the Honorary Alumni Award for demonstrating exceptional commitment to and support for the mission and spirit of Siena Heights University. Over four decades, he served as coach, athletic director, faculty member, and dean, retiring in 2013 as Vice President of Enrollment Management.

Mitchell Prater

Mitchell Prater, Class of 2018, formerly of Toledo, will receive the Recent Graduate Award posthumously. A dynamic leader as a social studies student, he died from brain cancer on December 16, 2020. During his cancer treatment, the Facebook group, “The Mitchell Project,” offered insight into the final months of his life. He is being honored for his assistance to others, notably people with disabilities, and for living in the spirit of the Siena Heights mission.

Homecoming events will also include a production of Rent, the Musical, on Thursday to Saturday evenings; a welcome reception to the Faculty Art Exhibition from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday; the Saints homecoming football game against Madonna University at noon on Saturday; the Alumni Mass at 4:30 p.m. Saturday in St. Dominic Chapel, formerly Lumen Ecclesiae Chapel; and the All-Alumni Dinner on Saturday evening. 

See the complete schedule, or email alumni@sienaheights.edu or call 517-264-7143 for information.