News
A June 9 ribbon cutting for Carbonelli Villas, the new student housing building on Montcalm Community College’s Sidney campus, marked a milestone for the institution.
Members of the college’s Board of Trustees, Foundation Board, college leadership, and the Carbonelli family, as well as representatives of project partners Construction Simplified, Mathison/Mathison and Progressive Companies joined employees and community members in gathering for the occasion.
Before a representative group officially cut the ribbon, MCC President Dr. Bradley J. Barrick and Board Chair Kurt Peterson were joined by project partners to address the attendees.
“Today is a truly historic occasion and marks a defining moment in the life of Montcalm Community College,” Dr. Barrick said. “Student housing transforms a campus from a place students attend into a community where students belong.”
“This new residential option elevates the community college experience by creating the vibrant campus life traditionally associated with four-year universities,” he said. “When students live where they learn, they build stronger relationships, become more engaged, and develop a deeper connection to their college experience.
“I often say this project is on time, on budget, and on mission. It represents one of the most significant investments in student success and campus life in our college’s history,” he said.
Dr. Barrick said that a key factor in the project’s success was partnering with the right team, noting that Construction Simplified, Mathison/Mathison Architects, and Progressive Companies proved to be an excellent fit.
Travis Featherby, Associate Partner with project manager Construction Simplified, said one factor that made this project especially rewarding is that it will create a lasting impact for students.
“This project signifies an investment not only in student housing, but the overall student experience,” he said. “This project reminds us of what we do and why we do it.”
Matthew Schulte, Director of Project Operations with Mathison/Mathison Architects, said the building was designed to encompass the rich history of the college and its vision for the future.
“Every space is designed with accessibility in mind. That means everybody belongs here,” he said.
Tom Frey, Principal and Senior Project Manager with Progressive Companies, said from the beginning the project was organized, analyzed and budgeted with students in mind.
“This is a really important moment,” he said. “Important moments come from the journey.
“Through this project, we have created environments for students to thrive,” he said.
“I like your tagline, ‘You Belong Here,’” he said. “It’s not just that you belong here. MCC is not just a place, it’s your place.”
Before the ribbon was cut to officially mark the building’s grand opening, MCC Board Chair Kurt Peterson announced that the facility had been named Carbonelli Villas in honor of the Carbonelli family’s decades of dedicated service, unwavering support, and generous philanthropy benefiting Montcalm Community College.
A member of MCC’s Board of Trustees since 1981, Karen Carbonelli served the college with extraordinary dedication for 44 years, including 28 years as chairperson. During her long and impactful tenure, she also served as treasurer, contributed to the presidential evaluation and search committees, and represented MCC as a trustee or alternate trustee director on the Michigan Community College Association Board of Directors.
With dozens of family members present to celebrate the occasion, Peterson shared memories of serving alongside Karen.
“I will always remember the grin she wore when she brought back a check from her family in Florida,” he said.
“Today, Karen would have been sure to praise those who had a part in bringing student housing to Montcalm Community College,” he said.
The Carbonelli family’s impact extends well beyond leadership through their remarkable generosity and investment in student success. In addition to establishing the MCC Foundation Kevin Carbonelli Memorial Scholarship and the MCC Foundation Centurion Athletics Scholarship, the family has provided significant financial support for fundraising campaigns and capital projects that have strengthened MCC’s facilities and enhanced opportunities for students. Their philanthropic contributions have helped advance the college’s mission and support its long-term growth.
“Montcalm Community College is deeply grateful for the Carbonelli family’s enduring dedication, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities and enriching the campus community for generations to come,” Peterson said.
MCC’s three-story student housing complex will accommodate up to 84 residents, providing an affordable, safe, and vibrant housing option with a high standard of care to support full-time students and student-athletes.
As part of the college’s 5-Year CORE Strategic Plan, student housing will address housing insecurity and affordability needs, increase enrollment, and enrich the student experience by promoting a positive on-campus culture that differentiates MCC from peer institutions.
Features include:
Sustainable design and positioning in an engaging natural landscape environment
Double-occupancy bedrooms in a shared village-style housing unit
Kitchenette, bedroom and living room
Wireless internet
Study and gathering spaces
On-site laundry and trash removal
Electric, water, heat/air
Secured main entrance
On-campus residence staff
Free parking
Student life activities
For more information about MCC’s student housing offerings, visit montcalm.edu/student-housing, email housing@montcalm.edu or call 989-328-1296.