State Rep. Jerry Neyer welcomed Dr. Joseph L. Odenwald, president of Alma College, to the House Floor for the governor’s annual State of the State address.

Odenwald became Alma College’s 14th president in June 2025 after previously serving as president of Southwestern Michigan College, where he led enrollment growth, strengthened academic programs, and expanded community engagement initiatives. A first-generation college graduate, he brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, student success initiatives, and institutional development.

Neyer said he was pleased to have Odenwald as his guest to recognize the important role Alma College plays in providing educational opportunities, supporting local economic development, and staying closely connected to the surrounding community.