Alpena Community College Alumni

During ACC’s Spring Nursing Pinning Ceremony, we had the privilege of recognizing someone who truly represents the heart of nursing.

For more than 60 years, Sally Jean Smith has dedicated her life to caring for others. From beginning her healthcare journey as a nurse aide in 1966, to graduating from Alpena Community College’s second LPN cohort, to serving as a charge nurse, director of nursing, and owner/operator of Jamieson Nursing Home, Sally’s impact on healthcare in our community has been extraordinary.

She has cared for generations of families, supported patients and loved ones through life’s most difficult moments, and helped guide future nurses as they begin their own journeys in healthcare.

ACC is proud to recognize Sally Jean Smith as the recipient of the 2026 Florence Nightingale Award, an honor celebrating compassion, dedication, and excellence in nursing care.

Reminder: ACC Nursing Pinning is tonight! All nursing alumni are invited to join us as we celebrate this year’s nursing graduates.

Nursing alumni will meet in CTR 106 at 5:30 p.m. before walking in together for the ceremony.

It’s not too late to sign up, we’d love to see you there!

Registration link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hZcU0Tar50C-oK-2UysBdVQ2csyEEwpHphp2ygY6AJhUNzRYNEJKVjQzRDE1T0lOTzFINVBGQ1c1NS4u&origin=Invitation&channel=0

ACC Nursing Alumni - you’re invited to join us for this year’s Nursing Pinning Ceremony.

If you’re interested in attending, sign up here:

Register for the Nursing Pinning Ceremony

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=hZcU0Tar50C-oK-2UysBdVQ2csyEEwpHphp2ygY6AJhUNzRYNEJKVjQzRDE1T0lOTzFINVBGQ1c1NS4u&origin=Invitation&channel=0

We’d love to have you back on campus to celebrate our graduates and recognize the next group entering the profession!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT - Dr. Alhasan Ceesay

Medical Doctor / Author

Alhasan Ceesay began his journey at Alpena Community College in the 1960s, studying biology as a pre-med student. After graduating from ACC in 1969, he continued his education across multiple institutions, eventually earning his medical degree and dedicating his career to serving others.

His path took him across the world, completing advanced degrees and medical training before returning to The Gambia, where he practiced medicine for decades. In addition to his medical career, Ceesay has written and published more than 200 books, with proceeds supporting the development of a village hospital in his home region.

Ceesay credits ACC as a foundational step in that journey.

“ACC gave me a strong springboard toward my goal of providing medical service to rural Gambia.”

His experience reflects the importance of discipline and long-term vision.

“ACC is a great place to start, as long as you apply yourself and know your goals.”

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT - Ellie Hoes

Vice President of Marketing - HPC Credit Union

Ellie Hoes began her college journey at Alpena Community College, where she earned her Associate’s degree in Marketing and was named Marketing Student of the Year. She continued her education at Ferris State University, earning her Bachelor’s degree before returning to Alpena to begin her career.

She joined HPC Credit Union as a Marketing Coordinator and has since grown into her current role as Vice President of Marketing.

Hoes says ACC played a key role in helping her discover her career path.

“I began my journey at Alpena Community College, where I earned my Associate’s degree in Marketing and was honored as Marketing Student of the Year. I then continued my education at Ferris State University, earning my Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. After graduating, I wanted to return to Alpena and discovered an opportunity at HPC Credit Union as a Marketing Coordinator. I applied, was hired, and have since grown into my current role as Vice President of Marketing. I’m incredibly happy to be back in Alpena.”

She also credits ACC for building a strong foundation in her field.

“Attending Alpena Community College helped me discover my passion for marketing and business. Their program provides a strong foundation in business, advertising, and marketing that truly sets you up for success.”

For current students, she emphasizes the importance of relationships and involvement.

“Take full advantage of the hands-on experiences offered in your classes and get involved whenever you can. Just as important - build connections. Talk to local businesses, alumni, and your professors. Many opportunities come from the relationships you create as you grow your network.”

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT - Dr. LeAnn Burns

Optometrist / Owner - Up North Eye Care

Dr. LeAnn Burns began her higher education journey at Alpena Community College while working toward a Bachelor of Science and Arts degree pathway. Today she is the owner and optometrist at Up North Eye Care, serving patients across Northeast Michigan.

LeAnn credits ACC with helping her develop independence early in her educational journey.

“ACC helped grow my independence.”

As an optometrist, she says the profession involves far more than just vision prescriptions.

“Optometry isn’t just about prescriptions and disease - it’s about relationships. You’ll manage chronic conditions like glaucoma, diabetes, and dry eye. You’ll calm anxious patients and explain complex things in simple terms. If you enjoy science and connecting with people, you’ll thrive.”

😷Do you know an extraordinary nurse? - https://mailchi.mp/alpenacc/do-you-know-an-extraordinary-nurse-17622818

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT - Fred Gagnier

Regional Manager / Project Director — Clark Construction Company

Fred Gagnier’s journey with Alpena Community College began in the 1980s and continued years later when he completed his Associate’s Degree in General Studies in 2009. Today, he serves as Regional Manager and Project Director for Clark Construction Company, where he helped open the company’s Alpena office and has spent the past seven years leading projects and overseeing operations.

Fred credits ACC with helping him prepare for new opportunities throughout his career.

“It prepared me to be productive for new career opportunities when I left ACC and I also used what I learned to work during my tenure at ACC.”

For students considering a future in the trades or construction industry, Fred encourages them to pursue the field.

“Pursue a career in construction. It’s exciting, always changing, and offers great salary and benefits for a lifelong career.”