Graduate

Commencement

eoboyle — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:19:29 +0000

Commencement

Campus Events

Commencement

Graduate

Undergraduate

eoboyle Wed, 02/26/2025 - 11:19

2025-06-21T09:30:00-0400 _2025-06-21T12:30:00-0400

Atwood Stadium

9:30 a.m. - 2025 Commencement Ceremony

Atwood Stadium, 911��

For those unable to attend, the ceremony will be live-streamed.

*In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony may be delayed until later in the day on Saturday, June 21, or it may be moved to Sunday, June 22, at 9:30 a.m. The weather call will be made at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, and updates will be provided via email to participating graduates and on the University's Social Media Accounts.

For More Information and Tickets

911�� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

rnorris — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 18:31:39 +0000

911�� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

rnorris Tue, 10/29/2024 - 14:31

911�� has secured top honors in Intelligent.com's 2025 rankings, highlighting its excellence across various Master’s programs. This recognition reinforces Kettering's commitment to providing high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers and industry leadership.

Intelligent.com employed a rigorous, data-driven methodology to evaluate programs based on academic quality, graduation rates, cost, return on investment (ROI), and student resources. The evaluation utilized trusted sources, including the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, U.S. News & World Report, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ensuring that only programs with a strong track record of excellence earned a spot on Intelligent.com’s rankings.

Among 911��'s nationally ranked programs are:

No. 6 Best Online Master’s in Supply Chain Management Degree Programs
No. 12 Best Online MBA Programs (No GMAT Required)
No. 22 Best Online Master’s in Electrical Engineering Programs
No. 23 Best Online MBA in Supply Chain Management Degree Programs
No. 24 Best Online MBA in Healthcare Management Programs
No. 28 Best Online Master’s in Engineering Management Degree Programs

In addition to the top honors earned for 911��’s Online Master’s programs, Intelligent.com also ranked the On-Campus Master’s Degree Programs as No. 34 in the nation.

“This recognition from Intelligent.com affirms 911��’s commitment to providing exceptional, industry-driven education for our online students,” said Dr. Janie Jacobs, Interim Vice President of Kettering Global. “It highlights the quality of our programs and the dedication of our faculty and staff in preparing graduates to lead and innovate in their fields. This acknowledgment reinforces that our students are receiving a top-tier education that equips them with the skills and knowledge to excel in today's rapidly evolving professional landscape.”

For more information on the ranking methodology, visit Intelligent.com.

Over 500 911�� Students Receive Degrees During 2024 Commencement Ceremony

rnorris — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 17:36:58 +0000

Over 500 911�� Students Receive Degrees During 2024 Commencement Ceremony

Commencement

Graduate

Undergraduate

rnorris Tue, 06/25/2024 - 13:36

911�� awarded 418 bachelor's and 163 master's degrees during its 2024 commencement ceremony on Saturday, June 15, setting the stage for these graduates to take on roles as leaders and innovators in a breadth of industries and areas ranging from mobility, new energy vehicles, intelligent manufacturing, to AI and sustainability. Since its founding in 1919, 911�� has continually brought STEM-focused learning to life. Through a 50/50 blend of rigorous academics and paid Co-op employment, Kettering students work shoulder-to-shoulder with professors and industry leaders and enter the job market with 2.5 years of on-the-job experience upon graduation. They also continue to command the highest starting salaries in Michigan, as evidenced by a multi-year standing at the top of SmartAsset’s list.

The 911�� Class of 2024 has shown a unique ability to adapt and thrive in its post-secondary educational career that, for many, started amid the COVID pandemic. “911�� stands out among all of higher education as an institution that provides the very best education and career preparation combined, and these graduates embody the concept of mastery that underlies our entire educational model,” University President Dr. Robert K. McMahan said. “This world needs their talents and abilities, their energy, their service, their determined focus, and their spirit. They have navigated college years through turbulent and uncertain times - but also with grace, grit, and resilience. And they have done so successfully.”

The Celebration of the Class of 2024 started the night before Commencement with the Academic Honors Banquet on June 14. The invitation-only event recognized several groups of graduates. Some of the 911�� Class of 2024 graduates honored at last week’s Honors Banquet include:

Kimberly Linnette Betty, B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Flint, Michigan, is a 2024 Sobey Scholar, an award that honors her outstanding scholarship and leadership on and off campus. Betty’s association with 911�� began as a high school student participating in the Academically Interested Minds (AIM) pre-college program. While a Kettering student, Betty participated in the Co-op program at Lear Corporation, leading the effort to build a cost-efficient battery distribution unit prototype that reduced supply costs by 20%. On campus, Betty was instrumental in reactivating the Kettering Chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). Off-campus, Betty spent time as a Kagle Leader, tutoring Flint High School students in physics.

Henry Warren Grasman, B.S. Computer Engineering, M.S. Computer Engineering, Flushing, Michigan, is a 2024 President’s Medalist, demonstrating extraordinary professionalism during Co-op employment and in the classroom while contributing to Kettering and the surrounding community. Grasman has been part of the General Motors Global Product Development Engineering Co-op since July 2020. Grasman accepted an offer to join GM full-time after graduation, making him a candidate for the MEDC’s Michigander Scholars Program, awarding him a $10,000 scholarship. While working for GM, Grasman earned an Intellectual Property Award for Patent No. US 118992308 B2, Uncertainty-based Map Visualizations for Directing Vehicles. This is just one of the multiple patents and trade secrets he has contributed to through his Co-op assignments and thesis work. Grasman is also a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity, participating in many philanthropic activities on campus and in the greater Flint community.

Thomas Weldon Sprecher III, B.S. Electrical Engineering, B.S. Computer Engineering, M.S. Electrical Engineering, Marietta, Georgia, is also a 2024 President’s Medalist and 2024 Sobey Scholar. While completing a Bachelor’s degree with double majors and a Master’s degree simultaneously through Ketterings bachelor’s to master’s pathway, Sprecher performed his Co-op employment with PassiveBolt LLC, a start-up company founded by two Kettering alumni. While there, he was instrumental in designing several printed circuit boards for PassiveBolt’s smart home security systems. Sprecher has also worked on campus as an Electrical and Computer Engineering Assistant Lab Coordinator since 2021 and assisted with Dr. Allan Taylor’s OpenRoad project, building portable range boosters for electric vehicles.

Alexandra Lakota Kekel, B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Grand Blanc, Michigan, earned a 2024 Outstanding Thesis Award for her work during her Co-op employment at Munro & Associates Inc. in Troy, Michigan. As is sometimes the case when working on high-level projects and emerging technology, the company deemed her thesis confidential. Her Faculty Advisor, Dr. Bashar AbdulNour, said Kekel’s 309-page report is one of the most technically valuable and best thesis he had ever seen. Kekel was also employed at Stryker in Portage, Michigan, where she was a Co-op student and now works full-time.

Lauryn Nicole Tithof, B.S. Industrial Engineering, Owosso, Michigan, earned a 2024 Outstanding Thesis Award for her work “Universalized H-Point Process” under Faculty Advisor Dr. Scott Grasman while in the Co-op program at Lear Corporation. Her thesis project replaced manual H-point testing with a semi-automated process that improved efficiency by as much as 84% and reduced the risk of injury by 100%. Tithof also embodies the spirit of innovation, having launched her own small business, SneakArt Shoes, while still in high school. She is also a member of 911��’s Industrial Engineering, Management, General Engineering, and Mathematical Honor Societies.

Commencement Speaker Sean McBurney ‘03 Celebrates Kettering Graduates With “One Last Sneaky Assignment”

A business leader who rolled the dice on a non-traditional application of his Mechanical Engineering education and now leads the Las Vegas region of one the world’s preeminent resort brands, 911�� alumnus Sean McBurney ’03 (Mechanical Engineering) delivered the 2024 Commencement address. McBurney oversees nine casino resort properties as Regional President of Caesars Entertainment. With responsibility for 26,000 hotel rooms, McBurney ensures these large-scale operations deliver high service levels through robust processes and quality-control systems — skills rooted in his 911�� education.

“I quickly learned crafting a commencement address is daunting,” McBurney said. “There are awesome expectations surrounding commencement addresses. As I put pen to paper, I oddly felt like I was back in the classroom. The last sneaky assignment from Kettering, 20 years after graduation.” His advice to graduates? “Your success is limited only by your imagination,” McBurney said. “I had an extraordinary education here. You have had an extraordinary education here. You have developed a skillset, discipline, and experience that can set you on virtually any career path you desire.”

911�� conferred McBurney with an honorary Doctorate of Business Administration during the 2024 Commencement ceremony. McBurney began his Kettering career as a Co-op student with General Motors, working in Lordstown, Ohio, as well as Warren and Detroit, Michigan. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from 911�� in 2003 and attended Stanford University Graduate School of Business before joining Caesars Entertainment in 2006 as a Casino Marketing Manager. In the nearly two decades since then, McBurney has worn many hats in the Caesars organization before taking on his current role as Regional President in 2021. As Regional President, he is responsible for overseeing hotel, gaming, food and beverage, retail, surveillance, security operations, marketing, and human resources operations for the company’s nine properties in the Las Vegas region, and over the last two years, the region set an all-time revenue record.

For photos of 911��’s Commencement: https://www.flickr.com/photos/199529423@N06/

College of Engineering

College of Sciences & Liberal Arts

Electrical Engineering

Engineering (BSE)

Industrial Manufacturing and Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Dr. Janie Jacobs Appointed Interim Vice President of Kettering Global

rnorris — Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:55:36 +0000

Dr. Janie Jacobs Appointed Interim Vice President of Kettering Global

rnorris Wed, 03/20/2024 - 09:55

911�� President Dr. Robert K. McMahan has named Dr. Janie Jacobs Interim Vice President for Kettering Global.

“Those of you who know Dr. Jacobs know her to be a highly qualified, forward-thinking and collaborative leader,” McMahan said. “I am excited to have Dr. Jacobs assume this role and to see how Kettering Global evolves under her direction.”

Jacobs joined Kettering in 2019 as the Director of Strategic Projects and Corporate Training for Kettering Global and GlobalX.

“I am honored and excited to step into the role of Interim VP of Kettering Global,” Jacobs said. “The continuously changing landscape in higher education requires a collaborative effort within our diverse community. I am committed to upholding the values and principles that make Kettering Global a beacon of excellence in higher education.”

Jacobs earned her Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership with an Emphasis on Higher Education from Grand Canyon University, her MBA in Human Resources Management from Baker College and her Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from Central Michigan University.

As an accomplished leader with over 25 years of experience in higher education, Jacobs has held several executive-level positions, including Vice President of Career and Corporate Services at Baker College. In this role, she ensured the highest operational effectiveness, with the state of Michigan awarding her the Women of Achievement award.

“At the heart of Kettering Global's mission is the commitment to prepare students for lives of extraordinary leadership and service,” Jacobs said. “Kettering Global is positioned to grow its influence in the online education sector and make a lasting impact on the lives and careers of learners worldwide.”

911�� Soars 22 Spots Among 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Online Masters Programs

rnorris — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 15:53:06 +0000

911�� Soars 22 Spots Among 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Online Masters Programs

Graduate

911�� Online

Rankings

rnorris Mon, 02/12/2024 - 10:53

911�� jumped 22 spots to No. 61 (tied) in U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Online Master’s in Engineering Programs rankings. Kettering was No. 83 last year.

The honor wasn’t the only one for 911�� Online (KUO) programs. U.S. News evaluated schools in Online Master’s programs based on a variety of factors, such as student engagement, faculty credentials, and services and technologies.

The 2024 report also recognized Kettering in several other categories.

Online MBA Programs for Veterans No. 86 (tied)
Online Graduate Business Programs (excluding MBA) No. 96
Online MBA No. 126 (tied)

"We are thrilled to see 911�� Online's remarkable ascent in the 2024 U.S. News rankings,” said Dr. Christine Wallace, Vice President for KUO. “It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence in online education. As we celebrate this achievement, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide a world-class online education, unlocking boundless opportunities for our students. 911�� is not just climbing the rankings; we are shaping the future of online learning."

KUO faculty also have a pride point. For the fifth year in a row, business and MBA and Online Business program faculty have received a #1 rating and a perfect 100/100 score for training and credentials.

“This recognition is a reflection of the dedication and hard work of our students,” said Kenneth Williams, Associate Teaching Professor and 2022 KUO Instructor of the Year. “Their engagement, curiosity, and commitment to excellence are the driving forces behind our collective achievement. We take immense pride in being part of their educational journey, guiding and shaping the next generation of industry leaders.”

In its 12th year, the U.S. News Best Online Programs is designed for individuals looking to complete or further their education. This year's edition evaluates more than 1,600 online bachelor's and master's degree programs using metrics specific to online learning. The rankings only include degree-granting programs offered primarily online by regionally accredited institutions.

“Choosing the right online degree program can unlock a world of opportunities,” says LaMont Jones, managing editor for education at U.S. News. “The rankings and related resources U.S. News offers will help equip students with data to make choices that align with their unique needs, paving the way for educational and professional fulfillment.”

Graduate

Commencement

911������ Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

Over 500 911������ Students Receive Degrees During 2024 Commencement Ceremony

Dr. Janie Jacobs Appointed Interim Vice President of Kettering Global

911������ Soars 22 Spots Among 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Online Masters Programs

911�� Earns Top Rankings for Multiple Master’s Programs in Intelligent.com's 2025 Best of U.S. Education

Over 500 911�� Students Receive Degrees During 2024 Commencement Ceremony

911�� Soars 22 Spots Among 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Online Masters Programs