Alumni Profile: Jeffrey and Erika Appelt
When Alma College makes a visit to Chicago, Jeffrey and Erika Powers Appelt are sure to attend.
The Appelts, with their young son Brooks, attended the Alma College Percussion Ensemble performance at the First Presbyterian Church in Wilmette last February. They also have supported other College events in the greater Chicago area.
In addition, they have established an endowed scholarship that recognizes deserving students from the Chicago area.
The Alma College Chicago-Area Alumni Endowed Scholarship will be awarded to students from the City of Chicago Public Schools and students from the greater Chicago area.
“Chicago is our adopted home,” says Erika. “We’ve been involved in College outreach activities in Chicago, and we hope this scholarship will help those outreach efforts.”
Erika grew up in small-town Ithaca, Mich., while Jeff attended Utica Schools.
“Growing up, I always was aware of Alma College because my father was a newspaper man,” says Erika. “They had a great scholarship for me, so I was able to stay close to home and attend Alma.”
Both were pre-law students who have fond memories of former faculty member M.J.J. Smith. In addition to their studies, Erika sang in the choir while Jeff played football.
“Dr. Smith was instrumental in helping us pursue our careers in law, guiding us through the law school application process, and helping us with strategies for applying at the right schools,” says Erika.
Both went on the University of Michigan Law School. Erika is now an environmental lawyer for the Chicago law firm Barnes and Thornburg, specializing in water quality issues.
Jeff, a former prosecutor in Michigan and Illinois, is a police officer in Evanston, Ill., where they currently live.
“Alma gave us the tools that we have used to be successful in our lives, both personally and professionally,” says Erika. “Giving back to Alma is very important so that others can gain the same benefits we did.”
— Mike Silverthorn
