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By Mark Wilcox, News Writer
Michigan Technological University
Governor Rick Snyder has announced the appointments of Derhun Sanders of Redford, Michigan and Steven Tomaszewski of Howell, Michigan to serve on the Michigan Technological University Board of Trustees. The eight-person board is the governing body of the University. Both men are alumni of Michigan Tech.
Sanders graduated in 1997 with a bachelor’s of science degree in biological sciences. He is the Associate Director of Communications and Outreach for the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research Development and Engineering (TARDEC) in Warren, Michigan.
Sanders was the 1996 recipient of Michigan Tech’s Percy Julian Award given to an undergraduate student leader who is active in the promotion of diversity, social equality or racial/ethnic and cultural understanding. Sanders has served on the Tech Alumni Association board of directors and the board of the Black Alumni Association. In 2007, Sanders was the Keynote Speaker at the 35thAnniversary Celebration of Michigan Tech’s Summer Youth Program.
University President Glenn Mroz said he was pleased with the Governor’s picks. “Derhun and Steve are longtime supporters of Michigan Tech and we’re really pleased and thankful that Governor Snyder has selected them to serve on the Board.
Tomaszewski is Director of Real Estate and Facilities Operations for General Motors Company. He received a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering from Michigan Tech in in 1991 and a master’s from Wayne State University.
He is one of the founders and past Vice President of the Michigan Tech Chapter of the Society of Environmental Engineers. He has served on Tech’s College of Engineering Advisory Board and the Civil and Environmental Engineering Professional Advisory Committee.
Tomaszewski received the Michigan Tech Young Alumni Award in 1999 and was instrumental in GM’s involvement in the Ride the Waves Program. Ride the Waves, which came about when Tomaszewski contacted the University asking what GM could do to help get children involved with water issues, has taken about 2,500 children and adults on Lake Superior aboard the RV Agassiz.
He said it’s an honor and privilege to be selected to serve on the Board of Trustees. “Twenty five years ago, Michigan Tech launched my career and prepared me for the global marketplace.”
Tomaszewski said as a Grand Rapids native, he seldom traveled outside the city until he completed his studies in Houghton.
“I walked out of the doors of Michigan Tech and joined GM which afforded me the opportunities to work in Russia, South Korea, Germany, Brazil, India and China. I know this was only possible due to the preparation at Michigan Tech.”
He said he looks forward to using his global automotive experience to guide and share the future of the University while providing others the opportunity to step out on the global platform and succeed.
In a press release from the Governor’s office, Snyder said, “I thank Derhun and Steven for their commitment to serving on this board. I am confident they will help the University continue its success.”
The new appointees will serve eight-year terms expiring Dec. 31, 2024. Their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the State Senate. Sanders and Tomaszewski replace Paul Ollila and Tom Baldini, whose terms expire on Dec. 31.
