THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

FALL 2019 16 Welcome, President Wilson!

On Sept. 20, 1915, our Founders b egan a legacy. Now it’s your turn to Pay It Forward.

Honor the past. Celebrate the present. Invest in the future.

Visit the special website: griff.vn/1915 before midnight on Founders Day, Sept. 20 to make your Founders Day Gift. Your unrestricted gift helps support MWSU by helping fulfill unmet needs across campus.

Show some love for your alma mater this Founders Day. z

FoundersDay2019-concept.indd 1 8/14/19 9:36 AM On Sept. 20, 1915, our Founders b egan a legacy. Now it’s your turn to Pay It Forward.

16 FALL 2019

SECTIONS FEATURES 3 Campus News 11 Drew Brown Pledges 20 Griffon Sports $1 Million Gift A $1 million pledge boosts the 24 Alumni News Centennial Capital Campaign that 28 Alumnotes has reached more than $10 million Honor the past. over its initial celebration goal. Celebrate the present. 16 Welcome, President 30 Matt Wilson! Invest in the future. Missouri Western welcomed its sixth president in July 2019. Read about 20 what he brings to the University and his vision for the future. Visit the special website: griff.vn/1915 30 Happy 50th Anniversary, before midnight ON THE COVER Campus and Four-year! on Founders Day, Sept. 20 President Matt Wilson Fall 2019 marks the 50th anniversary and his wife, Noriko. of Missouri Western’s present-day to make your Founders Day Gift. Photo by Patrick Evenson campus and becoming a four-year Your unrestricted gift helps support MWSU by helping fulfill unmet needs across campus. institution. Walk down Memory Lane with us as we reminisce about the Show some love for your alma mater this Founders Day. past 50 years. SPRING 2018 3 z

FoundersDay2019-concept.indd 1 8/14/19 9:36 AM The MWSU Magazine is a ­publication of the University Advancement Office for alumni and friends of Missouri Western State University president’s PERSPECTIVE and its predecessor institutions. FALL 2019 Dear Friends, at changing our current scholarship VOLUME 17/NUMBER 3 I am truly humbled to serve program, researching new degree as the next President of Missouri programs, and finding ways to Editor Western. The trust expressed by the better serve our students to help Diane Holtz Board of Governors in appointing them succeed. We are also working Design Editor me is sincerely to increase Kendy Scudder ’94 appreciated. efficiencies on Director of Public Relations & Marketing Jomel Nichols Missouri campus. In the Interim Director of Alumni Relations Western is an coming months, Melody Smith ’87 outstanding we will share Photographers university more information Patrick Evenson that plays a with you about critical role our innovative

Board of Governors in the lives of efforts. Deborah Smith ’79, Chair our students, This Lee Tieman, Vice Chair our faculty, University is Rick Ebersold, Al Landes, David Liechti, our staff, our a special place Greg Mason ’89, Kayla Schoonover ’77, and Paul Granberry III, Student Governor graduates where students and our can plan, Alumni Board Tona Williams ’00, President community. dream, interact Mary Workman ’76, Vice President Jim Jeffers ’73, Immediate Past President As I and excel, and interacted with acquire the tools Emily Baumann ’10, Marilyn Beck ’77, Linda Crabtree ’60, Jodi Deering ’01, Brian the Missouri necessary to Gray ’90, Jaime Habersat ’99, Diane Hook ’90, Western family succeed. At the Lai-Monté Hunter ’99, Claudia James ’89, David Karleskint ’90, Linda Kerner ’73, Paige during the interview process and same time, a university cannot excel Klocke ’16, Stacey Lawrence ’10, Leayn Losh ’88, since my appointment in March, I without the collective support of Dennis Merritt ’01, Kendell Misemer ’82, Phyllis Myers ’56, Molly Pierce ’77, James Sanders ’84, discovered a community committed many. Working together with you, Ralph Schank ’82, Angie Springs ’02, to the ideals of an affordable public I am excited about the possibilities Janice Wallace ’98, Rey Wilkinson ’17 and Alexis Williams ’18 higher education, dedicated student and look forward to building upon service, quality teaching, applied our solid foundation to reach new Foundation Board Dennis Rosonke, Chair learning, innovation, creativity and heights together. Diane Hook ’90, Vice Chair Bill Grimwood, Treasurer excellence. We have exceptional Susan Pettigrew ’83, Secretary students, faculty, staff, programs and Sincerely,

Ashley Albers, Mike Basch, Kit Bradley Bowlin, opportunities here at the University. Eric Bruder ’93, Susan Campbell ’01, Ali Carolus, Since I began my presidency Wayne Chatham ’90, Jason Grayson ’98, Darrell Jones ’88, Rodger Karn ’98, Grace Link ’92, in July, I have been exploring a Pat Modlin ’88, Brent Porlier ’82, Tom Richmond, number of initiatives in an effort to Matthew J. Wilson Gordon Robaska, David Shinneman, Tom Tewell, Matt Thrasher ’95, Lee Tieman, grow our enrollment and improve President Greg VerMulm ’89, John Wilson, Matt Wilson, student retention. We are looking Missouri Western president; Bob Wollenman ’72; and Zack Workman ’74

Missouri Western Magazine 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt Hall 108 St. Joseph, MO 64507 (816) 271-5651 [email protected] missouriwestern.edu/magazine

Missouri Western State University is an equal opportunity institution.

campus NEWS

Andrea Hall ’19, Pam Klaus ’03 and Michelle Scott ’19 Alumna awarded Auntie Anne’s franchise After the most recent Steven L. Craig, Missouri Western It’s a unique and exciting day for competition by the Center for benefactor; other business leaders; our program.” Franchise Development in the Craig representatives from Auntie Anne’s; Hall and Scott join 19 alumni School of Business and Technology, and alumni who had won franchises owners operating 38 stores and there ended up being one winner but in previous years. businesses in nine states since two new business owners. Andrea “It’s a great feeling,” Hall said. the franchise program began in Hall ’19 won the competition and “I’ve always dreamed of owning my 2009. Last year, the alumni-owned was awarded “I’ve always dreamed of owning own business and today this businesses employed 319 people an Auntie my own business and today dream has come true. I’m and generated $11.8 million in Anne’s pretzel super excited Michelle and sales. this dream has come true. franchise in I will be able to pursue this The entrepreneurs receive Joplin, Missouri. I’m super excited Michelle and dream together.” ongoing support from Craig, In a first in the I will be able to pursue this Hall graduated with a faculty members, the Craig School 10 years of the dream together.” major in accounting and a of Business Advisory Council and competition, - Andrea Hall ’19 minor in entrepreneurship each other. Additionally, the owners Hall asked and Scott graduated are expected to donate a portion of the other finalist in the program, with majors in management and their store’s proceeds back to the Michelle Scott ’19, to partner with marketing. University. So far, those donations her. “We had two outstanding have totaled more than $230,000. Hall, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and candidates, and it was a tough At the franchise dinner the Scott, of Maysville, Missouri, were decision for the judges,” said Pam evening before the competition, Jim two of a record 16 students to take Klaus ’03, director of the Center for Reinert ’73 received the inaugural the senior-level Applied Business Franchise Development. “Andrea Patron of Entrepreneurs Award in Ownership class this past spring. was selected as the winner, but she recognition of his support of the Students in the class prepared and Michelle had planned for a long program, and owners of three stores business plans for the franchise, time to go into business together, were recognized for paying off the and Hall and Scott were selected as so we not only have a winner, we loans for their stores. Dr. Robert finalists. They presented their plans actually formed a partnership today. Vartabedian received the Champion to a panel of judges that included of Entrepreneurs Award. FALL 2019 3 campus NEWS

Department MSN/MBA new this fall receives A master’s program that The program is designed to accreditation combines nursing and business develop leadership abilities in for nurses who want advance their promoting professional practice, The Department of Theatre, healthcare careers will begin this creating effective work environments, Cinema and Dance was notified fall. A joint Master of Science fostering evidence-based practices, this past spring by the National in Nursing in Health Care application of informatics in Association of Schools of Theatre Leadership/Master of Business decision making, leading and (NAST) that it received five- Administration degree can be developing teams, effective resource year full accreditation for its earned with 47 credit hours – management, and more. theatre and cinema programs. 26 nursing credits and 21 business For more information, email At the time of the department’s credits. [email protected] or go to accreditation, only 190 institutions The MSN courses will be offered missouriwestern.edu/nursing/msn. in the United States had received in face-to-face, blended and online Dr. Jacklyn Gentry, assistant NAST accreditation, and Missouri learning formats, while the MBA professor of nursing, is the program Western is just one of five Missouri courses will be offered face-to-face director. universities with that distinction. and online. Students will also have “It tells the world that our faculty, curriculum and student the option to go full- or part-time. work meet a national standard of excellence,” said Dr. Robert New vice president hired Willenbrink, dean of the School of Fine Arts at the time. Darrell R. Morrison, who Morrison holds a Bachelor of He said rather than just review had been serving as associate Science in Business Administration the classes offered, the accrediting vice chancellor for finance at in Accounting from Henderson body looks at the competency the University of State University and outcomes of students, and the Arkansas-Little a Master of Business accreditation process includes a Rock, was named Administration from the self-study and on-site review. vice president for University of Arkansas- “Students can now say they financial planning and Little Rock. graduated from an accredited administration and As vice president program, and they are excited about began in June. for financial planning, that,” said Jeff Stover, associate Prior to his Morrison is Missouri professor of theatre and department position at the Western’s chief financial chair. University of officer reporting directly to Arkansas-Little Rock, the president. He oversees Join the MWSU Morrison served as Darrell R. Morrison accounting services, the Ambassadors! the vice president business office, human for business affairs at Texas A&M resources, information technology, You are invited to join the University-San Antonio and as physical plant, police department, MWSU Ambassadors, a group of the vice chancellor for finance and purchasing, risk management and campus and community members administration at the University of contracts for the bookstore and who raise funds for scholarships Arkansas-Fort Smith. food services. for nontraditional students. Learn Morrison succeeds Dr. Cale more by attending their luncheon Fessler. meeting at noon on Sept. 19 (social begins at 11:30 a.m.). For more information, go to foundation. missouriwestern.edu/ambassadors or call (816) 271-5920.

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campus NEWS

Residence hall renamed for University offers accelerated former president cybersecurity Griffon Hall has been renamed Vartabedian Hall was one of the Vartabedian Hall in honor of Drs. construction projects on campus degree Robert and Laurel Vartabedian. Dr. during Dr. Vartabedian’s tenure Students have an opportunity Robert Vartabedian retired in June as president, opening to students to earn a master’s degree in 2019 after 11 years as Missouri in 2011. It is Missouri Western’s cybersecurity in five years, thanks Western’s president. only apartment-style residence to an accelerated program in the “Getting to know Dr. hall, housing 240 students. Each Department of Computer Science, Vartabedian in the five years I’ve suite houses four students in four Math and Physics. been on the board has been a bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen Those working on a bachelor’s real blessing for me,” said David and a shared living area. degree in computer science or Liechti, chair of the Board of The board also honored applied computer technology may Governors. “He and Laurel Dr. Vartabedian with the title of take up to 12 graduate credit hours have been very engaged in the “President Emeritus” and presented in cybersecurity courses during community, and I think they’ve him with an office chair engraved their senior year that would count made a great team. I know all of the with his name, years of service and toward the master’s degree. The board members join me in thanking the University Seal. master’s program was formerly them both, and I’m pleased we known as Information Technology could honor them in this way.” Assurance Administration. Hyer named Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean “Our goal is to equip students to become IT professionals that Dr. Joel Hyer, formerly as well as Graduate Studies. As safeguard IT infrastructures from academic dean at Chadron State dean, Dr. Hyer developed and attacks on hardware, software, College in Nebraska, was hired as worked with others to implement networks and data repositories,” dean of the College of Liberal Arts Chadron State’s plan for said Dr. Yipkei Kwok, assistant and Sciences and began his duties reaffirmation of accreditation with professor of computer science. July 1. the Higher Learning Commission, “Doing so requires our students Dr. Hyer had been at Chadron resulting in full reaffirmation in to gain a thorough understanding State since 2001, starting as an 2017. of these attacks and the ability to assistant professor of history. He Dr. Hyer received his Ph.D. deploy countermeasures against served as director of the history and in history from the University them.” American Indian studies programs, of California, Riverside and his He noted that the company head of the Social Sciences master’s and bachelor’s degrees, also Cybersecurity Ventures predicts program and department chair. He in history, from Brigham Young there will be 3.5 million began his duties as academic dean University. He succeeds Dr. Murray cybersecurity job openings by in 2011, overseeing the School of Nabors, who is teaching biology 2021. For more information go Business, Mathematics and Science full-time this fall. to missouriwestern.edu/csmp/ cybersecurity or email Early College Academy formed [email protected]. A move to combine the The Early College Academy programs and courses available to includes Dual Credit programs, high school students under one the Visiting High School Student umbrella was completed this past program and the Dual Enrollment spring when the Early College program. Academy was formed, under the Last fall, enrollment from all Western Institute. these programs was 1,224.

FALL 2019 5 campus NEWS

University establishes diversity statement Last fall, a University diversity Muhammad said there are statement was approved after a Diversity Statement and will be several campus task force spent two years studying opportunities to learn about As a student-centered learning Missouri Western’s success in diversity. In the 2018-19 academic recruiting and retaining a diverse community, Missouri Western year, the Center for Multicultural campus workforce. is dedicated to inclusion and Education presented about Task force co-chair Latoya the promotion of diversity as 40 programs on diversity and Muhammad said they formed inclusion, and the International several committees, conducted essential to our mission as a public Center presented 40 more. surveys and focus groups, studied university. This commitment “Ultimately, the task force past surveys, and examined contributes to transforming lives started with our students,” policies and procedures in Human Muhammad said. “If our students Resources. and demonstrates our values speak up, it’s important for us to Several new policies are now in of freedom, respect actively listen and follow up with place, including ongoing employee and courage them to let them know what training, diversity programming . steps we are taking.” and a new reporting system. Convocation to feature Jon Meacham Presidential historian and brings historical context to the fear. Meacham is also a co-author Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jon issues and events impacting our of the recently released book, Meacham will be the guest speaker daily lives. “Impeachment: An American for the 26th annual R. Dan History,” which reveals Boulware Convocation on the complicated motives Critical Issues at Missouri behind the three presidential Western this month. His impeachments in U.S. presentation, “The Soul of history. America: Moving Beyond Meacham’s presidential Division and Hostility,” will biography, “Destiny and be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. Power: The American 26, in the Looney Complex Odyssey of George Herbert Arena. Meacham will also Walker Bush,” debuted at be the featured guest at No. 1 on the New York the annual Convocation Times bestsellers list. Luncheon at noon Sept. 26 Meacham delivered eulogies in the Fulkerson Center. for both President George For more information, go H.W. Bush and First Lady to missouriwestern.edu/ Barbara Bush. convocation. Other bestsellers include A contributor to TIME and His latest No. 1 New York “Thomas Jefferson: The Art of The New York Times Book Review, Times bestseller, “The Soul of Power,” “Franklin and Winston,” Meacham is a highly sought-after America: The Battle for Our “American Gospel” and “American commentator, regularly appearing Better Angels,” examines the Lion: Andrew Jackson in the on CNN and MSNBC. Known present moment in American White House,” which won the as a skilled orator with a depth of politics and life by looking back Pulitzer Prize in 2009. knowledge about politics, religion, at critical times in U.S. history and current affairs, Meacham when hope overcame division and

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campus NEWS

Professor lives her adventurous dream Just 320 days after surgery “It’s not for a brain aneurism, Dr. Linda about trying Oakleaf, assistant professor of to get back to health, physical education and what you were,” recreation, participated in a two- Project Athena day, 52-mile Harbor to Harbor Founder Robyn hike in California, trekking from Benincasa wrote Oceanside to San Diego. on its website. “I’m really glad I did it in spite “It’s about trying of the fact that my feet kinda to be the best looked like hamburger when I was of what you’re finished,” she said with a laugh. capable of today, The journey to her hiking this minute. The adventure began when Dr. most gratifying Oakleaf was recovering from brain thing is the Dr. Linda Oakleaf with her fellow Project Athena trekkers. surgery last summer. Someone moment when told her about Project Athena, an you see someone realize they’re even had Project Athena “trail organization that helps survivors going to make it, when you see the angels” to help if they needed it. of medical or traumatic setbacks fear disappear and they realize how “All of us had our struggles “achieve their adventurous dreams.” awesome they truly are!” with our bodies, and we talked Along with the Harbor to Dr. Oakleaf said she was about it with each other,” she said Harbor trek, the nonprofit immediately interested when of her fellow walkers. “They are organization offers three other she heard about Project Athena, now like family.” adventures each year: Grand and was awarded a grant from Dr. Oakleaf was scheduled Canyon Adventure Trek, San them that paid for her flight, to teach classes in the summer of Diego Cove to Harbor Coastal transportation, hotel, food and 2018 before she found out she had Marathon Trek and a Florida Keys some training gear. Project Athena to have surgery, and she said she to Recovery Adventure. even provided her with a trainer is grateful for her colleagues who through an app. not only took over her classes, but Dr. Oakleaf began training helped when she was recovering. in January 2019, and the winter “They were so supportive and kind. weather presented its own set of I couldn’t have done it without the challenges. One day, she was iced help from everyone.” in and walked up and down her Surgeons warned that she could basement stairs for 45 minutes. have problems after the surgery, But working toward a goal really but she has no ill effects or deficits. helped her on her way to recovery, “There is no way to tell your she said. “Training made me feel colleagues that you are having better about myself and made me brain surgery without sounding feel stronger.” traumatic,” she said with a laugh. The first day of the Harbor to “It’s not your best day when you Harbor trek, Dr. Oakleaf hiked tell your dean that you may return 28 miles in about 11 hours, and from surgery with some brain the second day 24 miles in about deficits.” 10 hours. A 40-minute climb up “But,” she paused, “now I can Mount Soledad on the second day even do crazy things like walk 50 was very challenging, she said, but miles.” the walkers helped each other and Dr. Linda Oakleaf FALL 2019 7 campus NEWS Griffons Abroad Legal terms teaching in Myanmar

Understanding legal jargon is and the internet, they trained the worked with him on research difficult enough for the average next group of teachers and shared projects every year since. This past layperson to understand, but try their lesson plans. academic year, Hubbard helped teaching those terms to someone Hubbard then returned to plan four pro bono legal clinics who doesn’t speak English. That’s Myanmar this past summer for for the campus and community. just what Kaylee Sharp ’19 and six weeks. Along with teaching She also gave presentations on her Britane Hubbard ’19 did in English, she helped Dave Tushaus, honors research at several national Myanmar in the summer of 2018 for professor of legal studies, develop conferences throughout her law students at Taunggyi University. law clinic courses (see “Professor Missouri Western career. Sharp and Hubbard developed selected as Fulbright Specialist”). Sharp, a native of Savannah, the two-week curriculum since they Sharp and Hubbard, who both Missouri, participated in an were the first students from the graduated this past May, took independent study course every United States to teach the course. full advantage of opportunities as year with Dr. Edwin Taylor, They had access to the lesson plans college students. They participated associate professor of political of a group from Australia who had in a study away trip to Washington, science, and presented her research taught there the year before, but D.C., Sharp went to Portland, at national conferences. unfortunately, those plans didn’t Oregon for another and Hubbard “Dr. Taylor really wants to work too well for the women. In the traveled to Memphis, Tennessee. make sure that political science is Australians’ class the year prior, the Hubbard, a native of Linneus, more than just watching the news,” students had some command of the Missouri, graduated with a degree Sharp said. English language, but Sharp and in criminal justice with a legal She spent the spring 2019 Hubbard’s students knew no English studies concentration and began semester in Jefferson City serving at all. Missouri Western’s master’s as an intern for State Sen. Jill “We had to do a lot of program in forensic investigation Schupp from the 24th district near reworking,” Sharp said. “But by the this fall. St. Louis. end, everyone was having a blast As a freshman at Missouri “It was great to do all this with and it was wonderful.” She said that Western, she enrolled in an honors Missouri Western,” Sharp said. “I since the class was optional for the colloquium on election law that feel like my degree is a lot more students, she and Hubbard wanted was taught by Tushaus, and she valuable.” to make sure it was worthwhile for them. Kaylee Sharp ’19, Fulbright Specialist Dave Tushaus and Britane Hubbard ’19. “We had never taught before so it was very challenging, but the students were so grateful to learn English,” Hubbard said. “It felt like we were making a definite difference. They were sad to see us leave.” “It was a really incredible learning experience,” Sharp said. “It was life- changing, and I’ll be forever grateful for the experience.” Last December, the two women gave a presentation at an international conference in Australia about their service in Myanmar. And this past January, thanks to webcams

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campus NEWS

Professor selected as Fulbright Specialist Training teachers in Egypt Dr. Adrienne Johnson spent Dr. Johnson said of her time in When Kaylee Sharp ’19 and two weeks in Cairo this past Egypt. She said that since she is Britane Hubbard ’19 served in spring when she was selected for always asking her students to step Myanmar in the summer of 2018, an English Language Specialist outside their comfort zone and learn they were accompanied by Dave assignment for the U.S. Department something new, she was pleased that Tushaus, professor of legal studies, of State. Just 80 people from the she was able to do that. It who served as an international United States are selected for the was her first time in Egypt, her clinician in residence for a month program each year. first time in a predominantly at Taunggyi University. The three Dr. Johnson, associate professor Muslim country and her first time worked with an NGO (non- of education and coordinator of in an Arabic-speaking country. governmental organization) called the graduate-level “I require my students to “I went to Egypt to teach Babseacle, whose mission is to TESOL (Teaching attempt to learn a foreign create greater access to justice English to Speakers others, but I probably language, so it was good for worldwide. of Other Languages) learned the most.” me to do that, too.” This past summer, Tushaus program, spent six - Dr. Adrienne Johnson Dr. Johnson joined returned to Myanmar to serve as a days of her trip Missouri Western in the Fulbright Specialist. training 20 mentor teachers, who fall of 2013, and she teaches both In the summer of 2018, Tushaus then returned to their elementary undergraduate and graduate courses. worked with more than 100 schools to train teacher mentors. She earned bachelor’s degrees in law students there to develop a “The teachers were funny, kind psychology and Spanish from the community teaching program and and eager to learn,” Dr. Johnson University of Denver, a master’s create a mini-clinic to conduct said. “They were one of the easiest in education from National Louis a community needs assessment. groups I’ve ever worked with.” University in Chicago, and a He continued to work with a law She also attended the two-day doctorate and master’s in linguistics student and faculty member from NileTESOL Conference XXIII from the University of Kansas. Myanmar even after he returned to at the American University in Her specialties include the United States. Cairo, on the New Cairo campus. young learners, English as a This past summer, he built on Dr. Johnson gave a talk to all the second language and bilingual that foundation, working to help conference attendees about leaving programming, and first and second them establish a legal clinic as part your comfort zone and moving into language acquisition. Her career has of their law school that will become a growth zone, a favorite topic in included several years of working a model for other universities in her Missouri Western classes. with elementary-aged language Myanmar. While at the conference, she learners. This is Tushaus’s second stint also served on a panel about teacher “I went to Egypt to teach others, as a Fulbright Specialist. In 2017, needs in the 21st century and gave a but I probably learned the most,” he spent six weeks assisting the presentation on interactive strategies she said. “I was grateful to deepen University of The Gambia Faculty for working with young language my understanding of another of Law with its clinical legal learners. More than 500 attended culture and its people. It was an program. In 2012, Tushaus was that presentation. awesome experience.” selected as a Fulbright Scholar for “I feel very fortunate that I got the fall semester. He helped law to do something I love to do,” students expand their legal aid clinic at Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, India and gave lectures and workshops on the subject. “Legal clinics are a very effective way to give people access to justice,” Tushaus said.

FALL 2019 9 Centennial Capital Campaign Report In January 2019, Missouri supporter Drew Brown brought named Craig Field in his honor. Western entered the fifth year the campaign total to $31,159,565 A three-story building was also of its five-year Centennial in outright and deferred pledges part of the project, and it features Capital Campaign. Kim Weddle and gifts, exceeding the initial a new concourse area with a ticket ’00, director of celebration goal of $20 million. Development, (See Drew Brown pledges said that although $1 million gift, p. 12.) it has been a One of the campaign’s successful successes was the campaign, there renovation of Spratt is more work Memorial they want to Stadium, accomplish. which The campaign kicked off with was identified as three campaign goals: investment an urgent need in in campus facilities, investment in the University’s Missouri Western’s endowment Comprehensive and investment in academic and Master Plan in co-curricular programming. 2014. An early deferred gift of Thanks to $10 million from an anonymous a combination alumnus kicked off the campaign in of public and 2015. The Foundation also received private support, a $1.5 million pledge from Mosaic the stadium Life Care to endow a professorship reopened in in the field of population health. 2016 and included Fiona Sansone was hired for new turf for the field, the Mosaic Professorship for moving the visitor side Population Health, the first bleachers closer to the field endowed professorship in Missouri and replacing the seating on Western’s history. the home side. Steven L. Craig Just this past April, a donated funds for an extra-large $1 million gift from University video scoreboard and the field was

10 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY office, team store, two concession all new seating stands and larger restrooms. There and bleachers, is also a new Stadium Club, which paint and new is two to three times larger than the graphics. previous space. A renovation The second floor houses and expansion individual suites with both indoor of Potter Hall and outdoor seating and a serving was one of the area, in addition to restrooms, a full original goals of kitchen and a Hall of Fame room. the campaign, The third level includes a control and progress room for the video board, a coaches’ has been steady suite and a press box. on that project A new Victory Plaza was since the also created between the campaign began. stadium and the Griffon Indoor Potter Hall, Sports Complex as part of the which houses campaign, and 274 engraved the School of bricks have been sold since it was Fine Arts, has built. Bricks are still available for received several purchase to support the campaign. improvements, In 2018, the Bill Snyder including an Pavilion in Spratt Stadium was addition of a percussion studio and improvements to the heating and dedicated, thanks to a gift from restrooms. Additionally, thanks cooling systems. Steven L. Craig. The two-level to capital improvement funds Brown’s gift will help fund a area offers a great gathering and from the state and a donation of planned addition to Potter Hall tailgating space for fans. the 2015-16 membership dues which will be named the Drew Last year, an anonymous donor of the Missouri Western Arts H. Brown Arts Annex when funded an upgrade to the Looney Society, several common areas completed. Work on the annex will Complex arena, which included were updated, and there were progress as funds are raised. “The Centennial Capital Campaign has already had a transformative impact on our campus, with facility improvements, a new academic program and more,” Weddle said. “It’s vital that we sustain this momentum through the next several months, so we can continue transforming lives for decades to come.”

To support the Centennial Capital Campaign and Missouri Western, please contact:

Kim Weddle ’00 Director of Development (816) 271-5648 [email protected]

FALL 2019 11 Drew Brown pledges $1 million gift Missouri Western’s Potter Hall project received a $1 million pledge from Drew Brown, a University supporter from St. Joseph, Missouri. The gift will help fund the addition of a visual arts annex, which is one of the goals of the Centennial Capital Campaign. When the annex is constructed, the addition will be known as the Drew H. Brown Arts Annex. “Drew has been one of Missouri Western’s most active supporters for many years,” said Dr. Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s president at the time of the gift. Drew Brown with Potter Hall renditions. “He has provided leadership to many areas of campus, and I am very grateful that he has added to Army Command and General Staff he received the Herb ’35 and Peggy his legacy with such a generous College with the equivalent of a Iffert Award for Outstanding gift.” master’s degree. He is the owner of Service to the University from the Brown, a native of Philadelphia, Brown Investments. “I hope my gift will inspire Alumni Association. earned bachelor’s degrees in Brown served others to do likewise, so we “I love this biology and German at North on the Missouri university,” Brown said. can continue enhancing Carolina Central University in Western State “Missouri Western Durham. He was drafted into the University the campus.” brings so much to the U.S. Army in 1966 and retired as Foundation Board - Drew Brown St. Joseph community, a lieutenant colonel in 1992. His of Directors for 12 and I welcome that, military service took him all over years and is currently chair of the whether it’s arts offerings, the world, and he received the Missouri Western Arts Society. He the expertise of its faculty or, Legion of Merit and the Bronze has also served as a mentor and most importantly, workforce Star Medal. While in the service, volunteer through the Center for development. We all want a better Brown graduated from the U.S. Multicultural Education. In 2018, life, and most students come to Missouri Western because they see Potter Gift it as the key to that better life. And At the end of June, a few days before Dr. Robert Vartabedian (center) retired, he accepted a I am committed to do all I can to $75,000 check to be directed toward the Potter Hall Annex project. The gift was from a trust that help make people’s lives better.” wished to remain anonymous. Dr. Vartabedian is pictured with with Steve Briggs, trustee of the He said he especially likes trust, Matt Wilson, who became Missouri Western’s president July 1, and Shannon Moore and Phil that the University is an open- Michaud from U.S. Bank. enrollment institution. “It gives people an opportunity to fly when they are not even sure if they have wings.” His involvement in a long list of community organizations includes arts organizations and museum boards. “I hope my gift will inspire others to do likewise, so we can continue enhancing the campus.”

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Rebecca Prest and Merle Phillips were selected for prestigious research programs this past summer at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Harvard University. Students selected for top-notch research So how did seniors Merle Knowing how difficult it was to “Students that I tutor ask me, Phillips and Rebecca Prest spend be selected for an REU, the two ‘Have you ever even gotten a B?’ their summer vacations? Both students did everything right I just laugh and say, ‘Oh, yes, I’ve were selected to participate in since they arrived on campus – done a lot worse than a B.’” the Research Experience for tutoring, mentoring, working as lab He applied to Northwestern Undergraduates program, where assistants, volunteering and serving University, Cornell University and they conducted research for 10 as officers for student organizations. Harvard for an REU, and was weeks at top-notch research They also earned good grades and accepted to all three programs. He institutions. Phillips, a chemistry conducted research with faculty chose Harvard for two reasons: one, major, worked in a research lab members. Additionally, they have because of the variety of research at Harvard University in Boston both presented their work at several opportunities, and two, because he and Prest researched at Rensselaer national conferences. hopes to attend graduate school Polytechnic Institute in Troy, Prest also spent the summer of there. He believes the REU will New York. 2018 conducting research in Costa help him decide his doctoral focus. Prest, a native of Bethany, Rica with Dr. Carissa Ganong, Prest, a biochemistry and Missouri, conducted research assistant professor of biology, and molecular biology major with using Rosetta Commons software another student. an American Chemical Society for computer-based protein “We just utilized everything that certification, was accepted in two modeling, and completed the is available to all students,” Phillips other REUs, as well. She picked program in Washington state where said. Rensselaer because it seemed like she presented the results of her He attended Missouri Western the best fit for her. She plans to research. for one year right after high school, study biophysics in graduate school. Phillips, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and in his words, “crashed and Both received a stipend, a conducted genetics research at the burned. I was a total failure.” When residence hall room and paid travel Buratowski Lab at the Harvard he returned after working a few expenses. Medical School. years, he was ready to start over. “It was awesome,” Prest said. And why were Phillips and And on his first day of a chemistry “It was something I wanted to Prest selected by top-notch class, he knew that would be his learn about and do, and it is an research institutions? Because major. awesome university. I’m super they are, well, top-notch students. excited I got to be a part of this.” FALL 2019 13 Campus Kudos Dr. Heather Kendall, associate Faculty and staff honored professor of nursing, was recognized recently as a recipient of the Twelve faculty and staff members Dr. James V. Mehl Award for Missouri Governor’s Excellence in were honored at Missouri Western’s Outstanding Faculty Scholarship: Teaching Award for 2019. annual awards ceremony this Dr. Marianne Kunkel, Department Dr. Vince Bowhay, director of past spring. of English and Modern Languages; the Career Development Center, Missouri Western State Dr. Amit Verma, Craig School of received the 2019 National University Foundation Awards: Business & Technology Association for Campus Activities Staff Service to Students: Outstanding Academic Advisor: Gold Scholar Award. He received Susan Deering, University Dr. Jason Baker, Department the award for his research proposal Police Department of Biology focused on student employment as a Staff Service to Colleagues: Dr. James J. Scanlon Award for model for workforce readiness skill Sherrilyn Schottel, Mail Room Staff Service to the Community: development. Staff Service to University: Chad Edwards, Athletics Bethany Vonseggern ’18 received Robin Kelly, Department of Dr. James J. Scanlon Award for the Society for Collegiate Education Faculty Service to the Community: Journalists Medal of Merit. She was Jana Frye, Department of Criminal instrumental in founding a student Teaching Excellence: Justice, Legal Studies and chapter of the society at Missouri Dr. Brett Luthans, Craig School Social Work Western and served as its first of Business & Technology; Dana president. She was also the editor- McDaniel, School of Nursing and Student Employee Supervisor in-chief of the Griffon Yearbook and Health Professions; and Dawn of the Year: Dr. Susan Bashinski, helped with the 2019 edition after Terrick, Department of English Department of Education she graduated. and Modern Languages OnlineMasters.com selected Missouri Western as one of the top Retirees 2018-19 10 best master’s in assessment and Best wishes to Missouri Western’s Dr. Debby Bogle Irvine, Department measurement programs for 2019 for employees who retired this past of Education, 24 years its Master’s of Applied Science in academic year! Mark Mabe, Information Technology Assessment. The program was also Kim Beckett, Admissions, 12 years Services, 23 years named Best in Real-World Training. Dr. Evelyn Brooks, School of Dr. Gordon Mapley, Western Institute, OnlineMasters.com analyzed Nursing and Health Professions, 10 years every online master’s in assessment 24 years Dr. Patrick McMurry, Department and measurement program in the Sabrina Campbell, Physical Plant, of Economics, Political Science and United States and selected the top 15 years 10. Missouri Western’s assessment Sociology, 40 years program offers three concentrations: Linda Clark, Physical Plant, David Noah, Physical Plant, K-12 cross-categorical special 19 years 27 years education, TESOL and writing. Sharon Driggers, Information Deatra Tyler, Human Resources, Technology Services, 22 years 29 years Dr. Regan Dodd, associate professor Dr. Judy Grimes, Student Affairs, Dr. Robert Vartabedian, President, of health, physical education and 23 years 11 years recreation, was named chair of the Dr. Cosette Hardwick, School of Bruce Whitsell, Physical Plant, Faculty Athletics Representatives Nursing and Health Professions, 13 years Council for the MIAA Conference. 19 years Anna Williams, Physical Plant, She has served on the council Jeannette Holland, Department of 12 years since 2015. Economics, Political Science and Robin Yarnell, Physical Plant, Sociology, 13 years 14 years 14 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Student Awards CFE celebrates five The Center for Entrepreneurship in the Craig School of Business and Technology celebrated its fifth anniversary this year. Since it opened, the Center has worked with more than 580 entrepreneurs, created 242 new jobs, retained 125 jobs and made an economic impact of more than $25 million. “I am so grateful that the Craig School of Business realized the importance and impact that entrepreneurs make on our community,” said Annette Weeks ’87, CFE director. The CFE trains, mentors and supports business owners and entrepreneurs in the St. Joseph The Organization of Student Social Workers was honored as the Student Organization of the Year region and beyond. Faculty and this past spring. The group’s officers, Tori Bond, Sarah Raynor, Roxanne Bade and Alyssa Bonnett, students in the Craig School of are pictured with their advisor, Dr. Pam Clary. Business serve as a resource for its clients, including helping to At a student awards banquet in Cecilia Tackett, Savannah, create marketing plans and ad April, several student organizations Missouri, junior; and Teresa campaigns. All services are free and were recognized: Flaugher, Platte City, Missouri, confidential. 2019 Spring Commencement senior In addition to one-on-one Speakers: Bailey Ketcham, Omaha, New Program of the Year: mentoring with business owners, Nebraska; and Eugenia Wallace, My Sigma Valentine, the CFE created Entrepreneurship Kansas City, Missouri Phi Beta Sigma Week, a weeklong series of Outstanding Student Program of the Year: workshops. The fourth annual event Organization Member: Friendsgiving, Residential Life in March 2019 attracted more than Kim Leach, Chillicothe, Missouri, Community Service Program 1,000 participants. Geography Club of the Year: Colors 4 Carson, “I’m proud that we have Dr. Robert A. Vartabedian Student Athlete Advisory helped people achieve their President’s Outstanding Leader: Committee dreams of starting or growing Sarah Lee, Savannah, Missouri, Glenn Marion Community their own business. We have also National Association for Music Service Award: Phi Delta Theta kept longtime businesses open Educators-Collegiate Spirit of the Griffon: and serving our community by Outstanding Student Soccer Club connecting new entrepreneurs Organization Advisor: Greek Week Champions: with established businesses whose Dr. Jordan Atkinson, assistant Sigma Sigma Sigma owners were ready to transition,” professor of communication, Fraternity of the Year: Weeks said. Communications Club Alpha Sigma Phi She has served as the Center’s Student Employee of Sorority of the Year: director since it opened in 2014. the Year: Destiny Redmond, Alpha Gamma Delta To contact the Center for Kansas City, Missouri Best New Student Entrepreneurship, call Dean Hoff Outstanding Organization: Geography Club (816) 271-4283 or email Weeks Achievement Award: Student Organization at [email protected]. Derek Neupauer, Pittsfield, of the Year: Organization of Visit the Center online at Illinois, freshman; Mazzie Boyd, Student Social Workers csb-cfe.missouriwestern.edu. Stewartsville, Missouri, sophomore; FALL 2019 15 Welcome, President Bringing a broad array of educational and business Wilson! experience from around the world, Matthew J. Wilson took the helm as the University’s president on July 1, 2019. Wilson arrived from the University of Akron, where he had served as president for two years and dean of its law school. Previously, he had taught and served as law program director and senior associate dean at Temple University’s Tokyo campus. An educator, businessman and attorney, he has lived in Japan, South Korea and Saipan, and in several states in the U.S. Wilson said he applied for the president’s position at Missouri Western for a number of reasons, but especially because the University is open access as well as the state’s designated applied learning institution. He also believes his undergraduate experience is a lot like many Missouri Western students’. As the oldest of six children, Wilson, a Utah native, says his parents encouraged him to pursue a college degree, but they told him he would have to pay for it himself. So he earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Utah on his own, often working two jobs to help fund his education. He was also a nontraditional student. By the time he graduated from college, he was 24 years old, married to Noriko (“she is awesome and talented in so many ways”) and had a daughter. Missouri Western’s new president has a lot of ideas for innovative academic programs to make the University stand out. As president, he says he will also continually look for ways to make education affordable and accessible for students. When he was serving as president at the University of Akron, he started a guaranteed scholarship initiative, where student scholarships were renewable with automatic upgrades each year. “It was a win-win for students and it helped with student retention.”

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President Wilson visits with students in one of the several classrooms and labs he visited on the first day of his presidency.

Another program that he started at Akron that he could often be seen across campus assisting with residence would like to explore for Missouri Western is Five Star hall move-in, dining hall special events and more. “They Fridays, where courses are held Monday-Thursday, and knew I was accessible and I cared,” he said. Fridays are open for internships, working, volunteering, “As we move forward, we’re going to do some researching with faculty, or job searching and interviews. wonderful things. It’s my mission to help the world “It really worked well. It allowed the students time discover the magic that we have at Missouri Western.” to engage in the community and the workplace. Many students told me how much they liked it.” Wilson also plans to spend a lot of time speaking to Things to know high school students in the region and to community groups, and he would love to see Missouri Western become even more involved in the community than about Matt Wilson it already is. He wants the community involved in Fluent in speaking, reading and writing Japanese mentorships, scholarships and prospective student Has four children and four grandchildren recruitment. His experience in international studies means that Met his wife, Noriko, in college. They were engaged expanding Missouri Western’s international programs and a month later and married within five months of reach is important to him. He plans to use his connections meeting. overseas to create new opportunities for students and Member of the Florida Bar Association faculty to engage globally and to have the University become more visible worldwide. Last two books he read: “Mediation in Asia” and Of all his accomplishments throughout his career, “Who Judges? Designing Jury Systems in Japan, East Wilson says he is most proud of his relationship with Asia and Europe” students when he was president at the University of Favorite movie: “It depends on the day. I love all the Akron. He often received invitations to join students Marvel movies and sports movies.” in activities such as basketball shooting contests, sand volleyball tournaments and lip sync competitions, and he Was once on a three-hour prime time game show in Japan continued on page 18 FALL 2019 17 continued from page 17 In the President’s own words What did you enjoy the most about your presidency at Akron? “The interaction with students. I really enjoyed the opportunity to positively impact students, to inspire them and empower them so they could succeed.” What is the most important quality a president must have? “The ability to find ways to support others (students, employees, alumni, community members and legislators) so they know they are appreciated, and the ability to find ways to work collaboratively with them.” What do you want people to be saying about you on your one-year presidential anniversary? “I hope when people look at the University then, they see excitement, hope and engagement, and my tireless commitment to student success. I hope they will be Noriko and Matt Wilson excited, too.” What do you like to do in your (rare) spare time? $70 Million Two-year Budgetary Turnaround “I love anything that involves a ball, whether it is In 2016-17, the University of Akron faced a projected participating or watching, and spending time with $30 million operating deficit and an 8% drop in overall my family.” enrollment. Wilson led collective efforts that resulted in What do you want to say to alumni as you the elimination of the deficit and addition of $12 million begin your presidency? to the reserves. “I am a big believer in transparency and accessibility. I welcome your ideas, thoughts and comments. My door is Making a Difference Moving Forward always open.” Scholarship Campaign A new campaign resulted in a 50% increase in overall scholarship giving with over $20 million raised for Education endowed and non-endowed scholarships. Juris Doctor, 1999 Akron Internationalization Temple University Beasley School of Law, Philadelphia Wilson led the establishment of an International Center B.S in Political Science, 1995 to focus on recruitment of international students and the B.A. in Asian Studies with Japanese minor, 1995 formation of cross-border relationships with universities University of Utah, Salt Lake City around the world. The university focused global outreach efforts on Asia and entered into new agreements with institutions in Japan, South Korea, China, Taiwan and Accomplishments as president Vietnam. at the University of Akron Esports Varsity Team and Club Program Major Gifts Wilson spearheaded the conception and development of a new program designed to tap into online competitive During Wilson’s presidency, the University of Akron video gaming. received the largest single gift in university history – a $23 million estate gift.

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Nursing expands with $550,000+ grant The School of Nursing and organizations so we can discover Health Professions received a grant innovative ways to recruit, train and from the Missouri Department of retain nurses and other health- Higher Education to increase its care professionals is vital in this capacity and better meet the health competitive job market,” said Dr. care workforce needs of the region. Mark Laney, CEO of Mosaic The School received $557,744 Life Care. “We want to make sure through MDHE’s MoExcels we keep our highly trained and workforce initiative to establish a sought-after caregivers here in Center of Excellence in Applied our community and offer them Health Care “There is a critical shortage of health opportunities to Learning care workers in the region, and our goal learn and grow.” (CEAHL). The The partnership is to address that shortage by developing initiative includes will increase expanding a pipeline of local talent with the the number of classrooms sizes required skills and training to succeed graduates receiving and simulation in the workplace.” a Bachelor laboratory space, - Dr. Crystal Harris of Science in enhancing Nursing degree “One of the things that sets technology in the labs and from Missouri Western by 15%. It Missouri Western apart is our promoting job exploration will also increase intended majors statewide mission of applied opportunities to high school and in all health-related fields by 5% learning, and this partnership college students who may be and increase Master of Science in will build on that foundation by interested in the health care field. Nursing admissions by 10%. providing more real-world learning The funding will be matched The CEAHL will allow opportunities outside of the locally with donations from Mosaic Missouri Western to expand classroom,” said Dr. Crystal Harris, Life Care, Mosaic Auxiliary, the partnerships with regional health associate dean of the School of Heartland Foundation and the care providers for clinical education, Nursing and Health Professions. Missouri Western State University ensuring that the University’s “There is a critical shortage of Foundation. education and training programs health care workers in the region, “Creating partnerships are responsive to current and future and our goal is to address that with community and regional workforce needs. shortage by developing a pipeline of local talent with the required skills and training to succeed in the workplace.” When the expansion of the simulation lab is complete, the lab will be available for community use to provide education and job exploration opportunities for visiting high school students and employees of community partners. During construction, the School’s faculty offices relocated to the Bond Science and Technology Center’s second floor. Planned completion of the construction on the third floor of Murphy Hall is scheduled for December 2019.

FALL 2019 19 griffonSPORTS

Women’s basketball coach hired Candi Whitaker was hired in At Texas Tech, Whitaker turned named Academic All-Big 12 with April as the ninth head women’s around the program between year eight earning spots on the Dean’s or basketball coach at Missouri one and year two, going from seven President’s List. Western. She has been the head wins to 15. In five seasons leading When she took over the UMKC coach at Texas Tech from 2013- the Lady Raiders, Whitaker had program at age 26, Whitaker 18, an associate head coach at four players named All-Big 12. became one of the youngest head Oklahoma State 2012-13 and In her final season at Texas Tech, coaches in women’s basketball. She the head coach at University of a player was named to the Big 12 won 83 games there and left the Missouri-Kansas City 2006-12. All-Freshman Team after being program as its second-winningest Whitaker has coached 24 named conference Freshman of head coach. student athletes to all-conference the Week for a record six times. Whitaker graduated from honors, 47 to academic all- Whitaker led Texas Tech to four Texas Tech in 2002 with a degree conference status and nationally consecutive Big 12 Championship in exercise sports science and ranked recruiting classes. As a head appearances and back-to-back earned her master’s in sports coach, Whitaker’s student athletes quarterfinal appearances. Under her administration at Valparaiso in have posted a 100% graduation rate. guidance, 11 Lady Raiders were 2004. She and her husband, Matt, Spring sports wrap have three sons. Shi Qing Ong caps Ong, from Malaysia, won Western record, passing current memorable career all four spring tournaments she PGA golfer Brice Garnett for the One of the most decorated entered and won her 14th career most ever as a Griffon. individual careers in Griffon and fifth consecutive event by Ong was named MIAA Athletics came to a close this past becoming a back-to-back MIAA Women’s Golfer of the Year for spring as women’s golfer Shi Qing Champion. Her 14 individual titles a second consecutive season. She Ong competed for the final time. were good for a new Missouri also became Missouri Western’s first finalist for the MIAA’s Ken B. Jones award, which recognizes the top male and female student athletes in the MIAA. Ong was named second-team All-American by the Women’s Golf Coaches Association, first-team All- Central Region by the WGCA and first team All-MIAA. She was also named Google Cloud Academic All-District® and was named Missouri Western’s Female Student-Athlete of The Year for a second time. On the course, Ong helped the women’s golf team to its fourth consecutive NCAA Central Region Championship appearance, Golf took home the gold at the athletic awards banquet this past spring when men’s golfer Patrick McCarthy was named Missouri Western’s Male Student Athlete of the Year and women’s golfer Shi Qing Ong was named Female Student Athlete of the Year.

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griffonSPORTS

18th season leading the Griffons brought two major milestones for the coach and saw her program back toward the top of the MIAA. Almost two months after earning her 600th career victory, Bagley Trotter became the MIAA’s winningest softball coach when her Griffons shut out nationally ranked Winona State 1-0 on March 23 at home. Her 615th career victory – all at Missouri Western – moved the Griffon head coach past one of her predecessors, Rhesa Sumrell, for the most wins ever by a softball coach in MIAA history. Following the milestone for their head coach, the Griffons won 19 of their next 20 games, including an 18-game win streak where she finished tied for second through the regular season was the that was snapped on the third day to advance to her third NCAA lowest ever recorded by a Griffon. of the MIAA Championships Division II Championships He reached as high as No. 7 in the by then No. 1-ranked University appearance. Ong carded her best central region rankings of Central Oklahoma. Missouri round in her final round as a and was named first Western finished second in the collegiate golfer to finish tied for team All-MIAA for MIAA standings and returned 19th at the national championships, the third time in to the NCAA Central Region her highest-ever finish at the event. his career. Championships for the 11th Baseball Softball time in Bagley Trotter’s 18 The 20th season of the Buzz Bad weather seasons here. The Griffons Verduzco era and the 50th season in the spring went 1-2 at the regional, of Missouri Western baseball couldn’t falling to eventual produced a 21-24 record. Senior rain pitcher Anthony Castaneda was on the named first team All-MIAA and parade of second team All-Region by three softball different organizations. Castaneda head produced one of the most prolific coach Jen seasons by a Griffon pitcher in Bagley Trotter. Her recent memory, with his 111 strikeouts the second most in a season in Missouri Western history. Men’s Golf Patrick McCarthy earned a spot in the NCAA Central/ Midwest Super Regional for a third consecutive year. The New Mexico native’s 72.35 scoring average

FALL 2019 21 griffonSPORTS

Football to celebrate 50th season

The 2019 season R N G R helmets to be worn by the team Fans can also score special T E I F S F O will be the 50th E N during its home schedule in 2019. collector’s edition Griffon Gameday W F I season of Missouri O Each home game, the team will magazines at each home game in R O U Western football, T wear a different helmet logo 2019. Each edition will feature

O

B

S

A

and a number of S that had been worn by previous information from a different decade

L

I L special events and M 50 Griffon teams. The 50th of Griffon Football, including recognitions are anniversary logo will be worn All-Decade teams. Football 1970 2019 being planned on the back of the helmets. alumni will be recognized at games to celebrate the In recognition of the golden throughout the season, along with occasion. Fans season, the team will unveil many other special events to be selected the 50th anniversary logo special gold uniforms at the season announced later. that will be featured on five unique opener Sept. 5. New sports performance director Matt Mandich has been College from 2015-17. He Northwestern State University in hired as the director of sports served as assistant strength and 2012. Mandich has certifications performance/head strength and conditioning coach at Missouri from the Collegiate Strength and conditioning coach. Southern State University, an Conditioning Coaches Association, He had been an assistant MIAA conference school, for two United States Weightlifting, strength and conditioning coach years, also. Reflexive Performance Reset, at the University of Southern A four-time All-Sun Belt National Academy of Sports Mississippi where he was the Conference offensive lineman at Medicine and the American primary director for baseball Arkansas State University, Mandich Red Cross. programming and an assistant received his bachelor’s degree in Mandich replaces Greg Carbin for the football team. Mandich exercise science from there in 2009. ’07, who left Missouri Western was also an assistant strength and He received his master’s in health for a position with the Kansas conditioning coach at Wofford and human performance from City Chiefs.

Spring sports wrap continued from page 21 national champion Augustana and Division II Outdoor Track & Field The Griffons showed major Winona State. Championships. The Trimble, signs of improvement in the Seven Griffons were named Missouri native qualified for the second year of the resurrection of All-MIAA, with Morgan Frost national championships in the 400 the program. Eight members of and Brea Blanton named first- meter, just missing the finals. the women’s team scored points team selections. In the indoor season, Williams in the MIAA Outdoor Track & Track & Field became Missouri Western’s first Field Championships and three automatic qualifier for the national competitors on the men’s side Sophomore Hanna Williams championships, but was unable to tallied points for the Griffons became the first female to represent compete after suffering an injury in at the event. Missouri Western at the NCAA the MIAA Championships.

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alumni PROFILE

Young to a degree

When Eugenia Wallace ’19 was at cheer camp in to graduate at age 16. Wallace September of her freshman year at Missouri Western, the earned a full-ride scholarship to other cheerleaders found out her birthday was coming up. a school in Oklahoma, “How old will you be?” they asked. “20? 21?” Wallace said but thought it might it was a little awkward when everyone found out she would be prudent to stick be just 17. That’s right, 17. The Kansas City, Missouri native closer to home graduated early from Raytown High School and came to because of her age. Missouri Western on a cheerleading scholarship at the age She cheered of 16. for one year at Although she says it was tough coming to college Missouri Western quite a bit younger than her fellow students (“I made on a scholarship mistakes that 16 year-olds would make in high school, and joined the but I made them in college”), you would never know Mystics the second it. Wallace, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in year. But that all cut criminal justice/legal studies in four years, was chosen as into her school work one of two students to give the commencement address at (“academically I felt the ceremony in Spratt Memorial Stadium this past May. like I had to work twice She was also involved in several student organizations, as hard”), so she began to volunteered more than 400 hours in the community, and focus more on her degree already had a job lined up at a Kansas City law firm before and became active in the she graduated. students’ Legal Studies “Missouri Western taught me a lot about Starting college that Association. This past grit, perseverance and hard work.” young may have been a year she served as vice – Eugenia Wallace ’19 challenge for Wallace, president for the group. but really, it was just And through all her one more challenge in a academic success, Wallace very long line of challenges that marked her childhood. never forgot that she’s a Growing up in poverty with her dad and three older foster kid. In high school, brothers, she remembers times of no electricity or food, she was asked to join the and sometimes not knowing where she was going to sleep. State Youth Advisory Board Just seven years before becoming a Griffon, Wallace was and she continued to serve separated from her family and placed in the foster care on that board as a college system. She lived in two different foster homes over the student. One of her proudest next few years before settling with a sister in Raytown, accomplishments was when the Missouri. group advocated for legislation “I had to fend for myself. Some foster parents were that gave foster children health great, but some were not. I had to teach myself,” Wallace insurance up to age 26. says. One foster parent told her she would never go to She also gave the graduation college. “I believed it. I thought, ‘there goes my dream. speech at Arrowhead Stadium I’ll just go on to be another statistic.’” in Kansas City, Missouri for But she realized she was good at reading and writing the Alex Smith Foundation and school became a great escape. It wasn’t long after she Cornerstones of Care, an transferred to Raytown High School as a freshman that organization that supports children she caught the attention of teachers who pushed her to in foster care, and she served as succeed. vice president of the Kansas City Wallace took a lot of summer classes and was very advisory board for youth in surprised when the school told her she had enough credits foster care. continued on page 26 FALL 2019 23 alumni NEWS

From the Alumni Association President Dear Fellow Alumni, We look forward to getting to know them and It is with great pleasure and it is an their family. honor to be serving as your new Alumni I also want to bid Alumni Relations Director Association president. I want to thank Colleen Kowich a fond farewell as she leaves our last year’s president Jim Jeffers for Missouri Western. The Alumni Association truly his dedication and service. appreciates her dedicated service to alumni and to A little about myself: I’m from the University! I personally have enjoyed working St. Joseph, Missouri and I work at with her on the Alumni Board and will miss her. American Family Insurance in the The Alumni Board has some amazing events Commercial Lines area. I keep busy with already in the works, and be sure to mark your organizations around town, including calendars for Homecoming the week of October 7. Runcie and Allied Arts. You can also Tona Williams ’00 Also, we are always looking for new volunteers in find me chasing my nephew in a number our many chapters and network, so please consider of sports-related activities. I’m a second-generation becoming a volunteer! graduate of Missouri Western (my dad and younger sister I would love to have your feedback and ideas; please are both graduates), and I loved my time as an undergrad. e-mail me at [email protected] with your thoughts or I would like thank Drs. Bob and Laurel Vartabedian questions. for their service to Missouri Western. Dr. Bob With Griffon Pride, Vartabedian did an amazing job as president and will greatly be missed. We also want to give a Griffon Welcome to Matt and Noriko Wilson and wish them Tona Williams ’00 well as they begin their tenure as president and first lady. President, Alumni Association Griffons Uncorked

Alumni and friends gathered for the annual Griffons Uncorked event at Room 108 in downtown Best wishes, St. Joseph. Pictured are some of them enjoying the rooftop deck: Linda Crabtree ’60, Linda Bishop, Keeran King, Jo and Jim ’59 Thompson and Garry Crabtree ’59. Colleen! Colleen Kowich, director of Alumni Relations since 2006, resigned her Missouri Western post this past summer and began working at University of Kansas in Lawrence. A search for her replacement began immediately, and Dr. Melody Smith ‘87 is serving as interim alumni director. If you have any questions before a new director is hired, email Alicia Otto at [email protected] or call (816) 271-5670.

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HOMECOMING 2019 ROARIN’ & SOARIN’ through the missouriwestern.edu/alumni/homecoming MONDAY, OCTOBER 7 BLACK & GOLD DAY • Herb ’35 & Peggy Iffert Award for Outstanding Service Wear your Missouri Western gear or your black and gold, to the University: Pat Dillon, Chief Government and take a picture and post on social media. #MWSUAlumni Community Relations Officer, Mosaic Life Care #BlackandGoldDay. Do you work with other Griffons? • Distinguished Faculty Award: Dr. Tom Rachow, Take a group photo! Department of Biology • Great Griffon Awards: Craig School of Business & TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 Technology – Jake Cunning ’16; Liberal Arts and GRIFFON EMPLOYEE Sciences – Duane Martin ’89; Professional Studies – ALUMNI BREAKFAST Mary Vaughan ’79; School of Nursing and Health Professions – Jaime Bartley ’17 7-8 a.m. Blum Union Food Court • Student Leadership Awards: Clifford Hughes ’55 Award – Ben Allen ’19; Dr. Robert A. Vartabedian THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 International Student of the Year – Shi Qing Ong ’19; SGA REUNION Graduating Student of the Year – Evan Banks ’19 NETWORKING AND TRIVIA WITH CURRENT SGA MEMBERS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 7 p.m. Spratt Hall Enright Rooms, 214/216 PARADE Meet the current members of SGA, WAC (formerly CAB), and 9 a.m. Downtown RHA. All former SGA, CAB, RHA members are invited to attend. See missouriwestern.edu/alumni/homecoming for more FUTURE GRIFFS FUN ZONE information. 1-2:30 p.m. Remington Hall Free family fun FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 FREE TAILGATE ALUMNI GOLF TOURNAMENT 2 p.m. Parking Lot H 9:30 a.m. Registration; 10 a.m. Shotgun start FOOTBALL GAME Fairview Golf Course Griffons vs. Missouri Southern State University $50 per person or $200 per team of four 4 p.m. Craig Field at Spratt Memorial Stadium SGA REUNION LUNCH AND CAMPUS TOUR SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 Noon FOREVER GRIFFONS LUNCHEON The SGA Reunion continues with a lunch in the Hall of Fame 11:30 a.m. social, lunch at noon Room in Spratt Memorial Stadium followed by a campus tour. $15 per person ALUMNI AWARDS BANQUET Hall of Fame Room in Spratt Memorial Stadium 5:30 p.m. Reception, 6:15 p.m. Dinner and Program (Park in Lot I, watch for signs) Fulkerson Center $35 per person or $280 for a table of 8 • Distinguished Alumni Award: Dr. Jamel Santa Cruze Wright ’00, president, Eureka College • GOLD (Graduate of the Last Decade) Award: FALL 2019 25 Chelsey Kusek ’09, Lead Elementary Art Teacher, North Kansas City School District alumni PROFILE Blake Schreck ’78: Economic developer Blake Schreck ’78 can’t help but And, he noted, he uses the skills feel proud when he drives around he learned at Missouri Western all Johnson County and sees all the the time. new development in the area. For When the Wichita, Kansas the past 20 years, he has served native was playing baseball in high as the president and economic school, he met several players from development director for the other teams. They all had offers Lenexa Chamber of Commerce. from several colleges, but six of Lenexa’s population has grown them decided to play at Missouri from a little over 48,000 in 2010 Western together. to almost 54,000 in 2017, and “My adversaries became my the city can boast of several new teammates. I have a lot of great projects and memories.” developments, “I like to give back because of my He played baseball as including Lenexa wonderful experience. Missouri shortstop all four years City Center. Western was a great place to get at Missouri Western and Prior an education and I am so proud of even played basketball to joining for the Griffons a what it has become.” Blake Schreck ’78 the Lenexa couple of years. Schreck Chamber, – Blake Schreck ’78 was inducted into the Schreck had Athletics Hall of Fame in Recently, Schreck joined the served as director of economic 2005, and the 1975 baseball team Western League for Excellence development for Overland Park’s he played on was inducted in 2007. at the Regents level in order to Chamber of Commerce and Schreck, who graduated with support the University with an president of the Olathe Chamber a Bachelor of Science in Business undesignated gift each year. of Commerce. Administration in Marketing, said “I like to give back because of “It gives me tremendous he visits campus quite often for my wonderful experience,” he said. satisfaction to see that growth,” sporting events and appreciates “Missouri Western was a great Schreck said. “I feel like I’ve been that Head Baseball Coach Buzz place to get an education and I am responsible for some of that.” Verduzco makes the baseball so proud of what it has become.” alumni feel welcome.

Young to a degree continued from page 23 Last fall, she founded the The association was created, hard work,” Wallace said. “I know Wallace Community Association, a she says, “to let youth and young what it’s like to feel down and 501(C)3 to support youth in Kansas adults know they can overcome not wanted. But I also know the City, Missouri and the surrounding any obstacle put in their way.” She’s benefits of persevering and getting area. Her organization teaches working with a lot of Missouri to where you want to be. I refused about financial literacy and pairs Western students in an effort to give to let my circumstances define who students with foundations that back to the University that helped I was and where I was going. award scholarships. It also sends care her “find my voice and learn how I tell people, if I can do it, you packages to the students when they to use it.” can do it.” go to college. “Missouri Western taught me a lot about grit, perseverance and

26 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

alumni PROFILE

Lauren Prywitch ’14: Behind the TV scenes

Lauren Prywitch ’14 always From there she landed an busy schedule. Prywitch says she knew she wanted to work in associate field producer role for an didn’t have the best high school television on one of the coasts. Her MTV pilot, and worked on “What experience, so she came to Missouri path to get there may have been Now?” which covers the lives of the Western determined to get the “kinda crazy,” she says, involving TLC’s “90 Day Fiancé” couples after most out of college. Her solution several internships, radio station they said “I do.” Then, this past was to get involved. sales and Boston Red Sox Radio, March, she moved to Los Angeles “I had so many opportunities. but she made it. and worked as a segment producer I kept applying for things and just “I knew I wanted to do what I for an MTV show that aired in kept getting them,” said Prywitch, am now doing, but I just wasn’t sure August. (When I interviewed her, a native of St. Louis. “But it felt how to get into it,” she said. the show was yet unnamed.) right.” Her brother was working in “I love when I get to work with She served as an ambassador television in New York, and last cast members and producers,” she in Admissions, a member of the year, he introduced her to someone said. “It’s great to work hard and Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority, a who could help her reach her then watch the show. Television is Griffon Edge leader, a member dream. While she was working in very exciting.” of the Homecoming steering Boston, she was hired to work two And work hard she does. Most committee and the Student days on “Wild ’n Out” for MTV, days on the “Chopped” set began Government Association, to name and the next day, someone from at 6 a.m. and ended around 8 p.m. a few. She was also vice president “Chopped” called with a casting When she was travelling for MTV’s of the Panhellenic Association and and recruiting job offer. pilot show, some work days lasted participated in the Barbara Sprong So she moved to New York City 17 or 18 hours. Leadership Challenge. and for the next six months, she “Sometimes it’s hard to maintain And now, she’s loving her recruited chefs to serve as judges on a personal life,” she said with a busy television life hoping to the culinary competition show. She laugh. be a producer someday. “My worked on the set when they filmed But her college experience heart is in TV.” three seasons. was good training for her current

FALL 2019 27 alum NOTES

1970s Shirley Dodge ’73 recently reminisced about an art class she had when she was a student at Missouri Western. The assignment was to copy the work of a famous artist, so she chose Claes Oldenburg, whose work includes the shuttlecocks on the lawn of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri. She created a large ball and bat. If the artist was alive, the student had to write a letter to them, so Dodge did. “And guess what?” she said. “I got a letter back and he signed his name in person. I still have the framed letter. It meant so much to me.”

1980s 1990s 2000s David Slater ’82 received a Neal Hook ’90 was named head leadership award from the Mid- boys basketball coach at St. Joseph America Regional Council. Slater, who Christian High School in St. Joseph, is serving his eighth term as mayor Missouri. of Pleasant Valley, Missouri, was recognized for his work in education, Nancy Gray ’91 and her husband, regional transportation and promoting Larry, are with Hosanna International cooperation between Missouri and Ministries. In the past 33 years, they Kansas in economic development have traveled to several countries to issues. He has also chaired the Metro work in churches, schools and homes. Mayors Caucus, a coalition of mayors This past summer, they completed a Stephanie Lynn (Crandall) from 83 cities and towns, for six years. mission trip to India. Dryer ’03 is the Director of Marketing and Human Resources at Omnitech Lori (Ellison) Wilson ’84 is co-owner Gary Lewis Midwest in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. of Ellison-Auxier Architects in St. ’92 had both his She and her husband, Aaron, have six Joseph, Missouri. She noted that her children graduate children – Kadence, Mason, Brecklynn, father designed the first buildings on from Missouri Ireland, Hudson and Kellan. Missouri Western’s present campus. Western in May 2018. Levi ’18 Taira Roth ’04 was a recipient of a Paul Breshears ’86 earned his graduated with a degree in criminal 2019 Wynn Award from the Missouri teaching certification through justice, and Lauren ’18 graduated with Sports Hall of Fame. The award, Missouri Valley College in Marshall, a degree in psychology. “It was one of named for the late Dr. Mary Jo Wynn, Missouri and is teaching at Great the greatest/proudest days of my life,” honors former high school and Circle-Marshall Tom Butterfield Gary said. college standouts who made positive Campus, a residential school for impacts in their sports. Roth played children in the foster care system. Janice Rothganger ’97 joined both basketball and golf for Missouri Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Western. Daniel Williams ’87 retired this year Stein & Summers Real Estate of as Director of Sales Operations at St. Joseph, Missouri in residential Penny (Thornton) Capps ’05 is Hitachi. sales. Branch Chief/Contracting Officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs.

28 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

alum NOTES

Kyle Grove ’07 is the strategic Rebecca Morgan ’11 is the owner of Ryan Hand ’16/’18 is an assistant operations lead – Post Acute and Well Read Books in Fulton, Missouri. men’s and women’s golf coach at myEvolv at Netsmart in Overland Park, Barry University in Florida. Kansas. He and his wife, Traci ’10, Paula (Elsner) have three children, Rumer, Griffin ’12 and Shelby Staci Rock-Rich ’16 is an exercise and Charlee. ’12 Hamilton specialist at Mosaic Life Care in announce the St. Joseph, Missouri. Garrett Holtz ‘09 and his wife, birth of a daughter, Maureen, announce the birth of a Quinlan Pearl, Amanda Camden ’17 is a son, Henry Frederick, born July 16, born Jan. 13, 2019. paraprofessional at the high school for 2019. Henry joins three siblings, the Ralls County R-II School District Patrick, Luke and Ellie. Maureen began Taylor (Hand) Buhman ’13 is a in Center, Missouri. She also coaches teaching in the Physical Therapist researcher at Kansas State University. high school softball and junior high Assistant program at Missouri girls basketball and is working on her Western this fall. Lauryn (Roberts) Newhart ’13 master’s in elementary education. is a resident obstetrics/gynecology 2010s physician at the University of Missouri- Holly (Leslie) Trotter ’18 is a registered nurse at the University of James Bush ’11 is a police officer for Kansas City School of Medicine. Kansas Medical Center. the Unified Government of Wyandotte Victoria Byerley ’15 is an inventory County in Kansas City, Kansas. He specialist for the Walt Disney Company has two children, James Bush III and in Orlando, Florida. A’mora Bush. In Memoriam We remember those who have passed away. If you want to include someone in this listing, please call (816) 271-5651, mail the information to Diane Holtz, Missouri Western State University, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507, or email [email protected].

Donald M. Beavers ’79, St. Joseph, Missouri, Feb. 24, 2019. Jill S. Rardon ’07, Polo, Missouri, May 11, 2019. Kelsey F. Cartledge ’17, Stafford, Virginia, Feb. 17, 2019. Patricia R. Ridpath ’97, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 1, 2019. Bille S. Draper ’89, Savannah, Missouri, March 5, 2019. Charles Stephen “Steve” Swymeler, Jr. ’94, Hermann, Missouri, May 22, 2019. Robert L. Engnell ’90, Maysville, Missouri, March 5, 2019. Norma V. Snow ’56, Bridgeton, Missouri, May 28, 2019. Jack W. Fennel ’71, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 4, 2019. Don J. Stallard JC, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 10, 2019. Melody A. Filley ’91, St. Joseph, Missouri, May 31, 2019. James H. Thompson ’78, Kansas City, Missouri, May 16, 2019. Susan A. Grimes ’83, Overland Park, Kansas, Feb. 7, 2019. Susan L. Heath ’86, Platte City, Missouri, Jan. 19, 2019. Glenn S. Turpin ’48, Kansas City, Missouri, Feb. 3, 2019. Rose M. Newton ’91, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 22, 2019. Calling Alumni Veterans! If you are a veteran of any branch of the U.S. military and an MWSU alumnus, please let us know! We are planning a lunch around Veterans Day 2019 and want to include you. Please email [email protected] today, and we will reply with all the details as we make our plans. Thank you.

FALL 2019 29 Celebrating

Happy 50th anniversary to the construction. At the time, the the Health, Physical Education Missouri Western campus and our original three were known as and Recreation Building (now the four-year institution – it was the the Evan R. Agenstein Science M.O. Looney Complex). fall of 1969 when Missouri Western and Math Building, the Warren Today, there are 24 buildings moved to its present location and E. Hearnes Learning Resource on campus, including seven began offering bachelor’s degrees. Center and the Frank S. Popplewell residence halls, a fitness center and When the campus opened that Administration Building. The three a conference center. The campus fall, 2,536 students were enrolled under construction included the also contains tennis courts, an and there were 167 employees. Engineering Technology Building indoor pool, walking trails, nine Three buildings were open for (now Wilson Hall), the Thompson ponds and a spring sports classes and three more were under E. Potter Fine Arts Center and complex.

“I was a 1969-73 student at MWC. I was in work study and got the ‘pleasure’ of helping move everything from the downtown campus out to the new buildings and campus. I also dragged water hoses all over to water the grass.” – Steve Allen ’73 (In case you were wondering, they set up a roller conveyer belt in the auditorium of the Junior College and slid the boxes above all the seats, on to the stage and out the back door.)

State Rep. Ronald Reed, Dr. M.O. Looney and State Sen. John Downs discuss the campus construction.

30 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Glenn E. Marion Clock Tower built in 1997

Left, early 1970s; above, late 1970s

A campus fountain from the late 1970s was where the clock tower is today

“When I interviewed for my job in 1968, they brought me out to Early 1990s the campus and showed me the foundations of the buildings, because that was all that was there at the time. When I started, there were two other deans and a secretary all in one big room, but I moved several times to make room for faculty members that were hired in the academic departments. Planning the four-year curriculum was one of the attractions of the job.” – Dr. Bob Scott, first Dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences

continued on page 32 2011 FALL 2019 31 The road to a four-year college and a new campus

Two days before the St. Joseph 1965 – Dr. Milburn W. Blanton 1967 – A groundbreaking ceremony Junior College opened in 1915, is named Missouri Western’s first for the new campus is held on Aug. the Gazette newspaper noted the president. The Board of Trustees 22. following in its article about the new wants to recognize a new era for 1968 – The campus is annexed by two-year college: the institution by naming the top the City of St. Joseph. “Although two years of college position, “president.” work have been added to the curriculum 1968 – Conditions that were set 1965 – A bill passes to give the of Central High, this is not the end of out in the four-year bill that was college an option to purchase 130 the ambition of some of the friends of signed in 1965 are deemed met, and acres on Frederick Blvd. for the the school system here. They hope to see Missouri Western officially becomes new campus. the day soon when the full university a four-year college on course has been installed ... which will 1966 – A bond issue passes to Oct. 22. give children of the city the opportunity build four new buildings on a new 1969 – As Missouri Western to get a finished education at small cost.” campus on Frederick Blvd. transitions from a two-year to a Adding two more years to the 1966 – The Board of Trustees votes four-year college, no degrees are St. Joseph college actually took 50 to look at other properties before awarded this year. years, and it wasn’t the easiest to purchasing the land on Frederick 1969 – accomplish. Below is the timeline The college opens in the Blvd. In October, the board wfor the fruition of a four-year fall as a four-year institution on announces that it plans to purchase college and a new campus: Sept. 15. 390 acres east of Interstate 29 for 1969 – 1961 – Legislation passes that the new campus. A ceremony to dedicate provides for the establishment of the new campus is held Oct. 12. 1967 – Missouri governor passes a junior college districts by a vote of Although it was a rainy day, bill which authorizes conveyance the people in those areas. Such a approximately 1,500 attended. of 130 acres to the Junior College district was a prerequisite to a four- 1970 – District. The acreage is part of the The first Commencement year college for St. Joseph. state hospital’s dairy farm, and the ceremony for the four-year 1965 – A Board of Trustees is cost is $27,000. The governor also institution is held outside by the established for the Junior College rescinds the option to buy the land Hearnes Learning Resource Center District Jan. 19. on Frederick Blvd. The balance of for 45 graduates. the acreage is purchased from area 1971 – 1965 – The Missouri Western The college adds 354 acres, farmers; the total cost for 390 acres Junior College District is approved bringing the total campus size to is $357,200. by voters, and the college’s name is 744 acres. Later conveyances to the changed to Missouri Western Junior 1967 – Dr. M.O. Looney becomes Missouri Army National Guard, College, effective June 7. The Junior president. University of Missouri Extension College is now funded by residents and the Missouri Department of 1967 – Missouri Western Junior of five counties: Andrew, Buchanan, Conservation bring the acreage College is renamed Missouri Clay, Clinton and Platte. size to 723. Western College. 1965 – In July, Gov. Warren Hearnes Gov. Warren Hearnes breaks ground for signs a bill to fund a four-year college the new campus in 1967. in St. Joseph. This bill provides for the establishment of an independent state senior college, to be known as Missouri Western College, when the Junior College acquires a campus, meets the requirements established by the Board of Curators at the University of Missouri and enrollment trends constitute sufficient justification.

32 MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Mitchell Avenue entrance signs

The first! Campus Buildings Year Opened Renovated/Added On Agenstein Hall 1969 2011 Baker Fitness Center 1994 2012 Beshears Hall (200s) 1973 Blum Union 1972 2000 Bond Incubator 2008 Clock Tower 1997 Commons 2004 Conservation HQ 1992 Eder Hall 1976 2000 Fulkerson Center 2005 Griffon Indoor Sports Complex 2010 Hearnes Center 1969 1990 Juda Hall (400s) 1973 Look at that Griffon! Kelley Commons 2013 Leaverton Hall 1991 Logan Hall (100s) 1971 Looney Complex 1971 1980 Murphy Hall 2000 Popplewell Hall 1969 Potter Hall 1971 1986 Remington Hall 2010 Scanlon Hall 2005 Spratt Hall 1997 Spratt Memorial Stadium 1979 2016 Spring Sports Complex 2011 University Plaza 2007 Vartabedian Hall* 2011 Vaselakos Hall 1995 Wilson Hall 1970 The sign read “College” until 2005. *Formerly Griffon Hall; name changed in June 2019. Blum Union and the residence halls have been updated and remodeled several times since they were built.

“In those first semesters on campus, the luxuries of sidewalks and landscaping were postponed until the necessities of buildings and parking lots could be completed. Students traveled to class following dirt paths, avoiding the ever- present bulldozers and trucks.” – 25th Anniversary publication Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Missouri Western State University St. Louis, MO Permit No. 5584 4525 Downs Drive St. Joseph, Missouri 64507

Save a tree! Email Susan Leslie at [email protected] to receive the MWSU Magazine via email rather than printed. Thank you!

Looking Back – Spratt Memorial Stadium

Spratt Memorial Stadium was built in 1979, thanks The stadium underwent an extensive renovation in to funds from the estate of Elliott “Bub” Spratt. The first 2015-16, and now features a giant video scoreboard and football game was played on the field Sept. 8, 1979, a 44-0 a beautiful pavilion. The spring 2014 Commencement victory over Dana College. Lights were added six years ceremony was held in the stadium for the first time since later, and the first night game was Sept. 4, 1985. 1981. Once the stadium was renovated, the tradition was Griffon soccer played its first match at Spratt Stadium on revived in 2016, and the spring ceremony has been held Sept. 3, 2006, a 3-2 win over Concordia-St. Paul. there ever since.