Alumni & Friends

In 1995, seeing an opportunity to expand enrollment efforts into Sedgwick County, the college opened up the Southside Education Center in Wichita through a partnership with Wichita State University and Wichita Area Technical College. The center grew by leaps and bounds and by 2002 overall enrollment at the center had surpassed the Arkansas City campus. Growth ensued for another 6 years until Wichita State University, who had expanded course offerings into a nearby facility, no longer gave permission for Cowley to host classes in Sedgwick County. In one fell swoop, over a third of the enrollment evaporated. Employees pulled together to recapture the lost enrollment and removed the need to cut dozens of jobs throughout the college. We endured. hen my grandfather used to plantW fruit trees in his yard he was very I noticed a couple of years ago, Today, while the search commences intentional about how much water, during a project we were working on for a new president, the faculty and and how frequently he watered them. with the college library to digitize staff continue to do what we have His theory was if you water them too yearbooks, that there were several always done in tough times; dig deep, much you raise a ‘lazy tree’ that would of the Tigerama yearbooks missing keep the students first and push develop a shallow root system because during the mid-1940’s. No one I forward. We continue to be one of there was no need to grow deep roots had asked at the time knew why. A the most successful colleges in the in search of water. He asserted the few months ago I had been having a nation in the number of students who problem with lazy trees was this; when conversation with an alumnus who graduate and transfer to the university high winds and storms blew through, had attended ACJC during those years level or head to the workforce. New they were more inclined to bend, and during that conversation I found initiatives are under way to raise the break and collapse beneath the stress. out why. Throughout the course of bar for degree attainment centered A tree forced to grow strong, deep U.S. involvement in World War II, around the successful completion of roots was able to endure the various decisions were made at the college math and English classes – historically trials nature tossed at it. and throughout the school district, the biggest academic roadblock in a to assist in the war effort by not only student earning their degree. State A well-publicized storm swept adhering to rationing guidelines, reports verify on average our graduates through Cowley College over the past but also to make cuts deemed ‘in do better academically at state year in the hiring and departure of our excess’ by school administrators. The universities than the native students last college president. The aftermath Tigerama yearbook was just such a cut who began there as freshmen. We are of this storm has been like most, and although not significant in size, moving forward. there are limbs to pick up and leaves was reflective of the many sacrifices scattered on the ground, but Cowley the college, and citizens across the Retired NCAA coach and College remains – having withstood country made during the war years. commentator Lou Hotlz once made the tempest. This was not the first We endured. the comment, “Show me someone storm, and despite all best efforts, who has done something worthwhile, history proves it will not be our last. During the academic year of 1967- and I’ll show you someone who has Today however, we stand because our 1968, two significant events occurred overcome adversity.” We have seen roots run deep. that rocked the college to the core. adversity. We have overcome adversity. Just a few years earlier, in 1965, state We will overcome adversity again. As if simply planting a community legislative action started the ball When the mighty winds blow and college in the city of Arkansas City in rolling on a process that ultimately the storms attempt to bring us to the 1922 wasn’t a big enough job itself, would lead to the college severing ground, we make the sacrifices, we pull less than a decade later the Great administrative and operational ties together, and we hold steadfast until Depression came along and forced with the local school district, USD it passes. many into unemployment. Enrollment 470, which for the prior 45 years at the college increased 5 times over had run the college. In July of 1967, Our roots run deep. amidst the depression era, yet facilities the college took the first step into could not keep up with the demand autonomy with the election of the first and additional faculty was not board of trustees and the appointment brought on to scale. This resulted in of long-time district employee, Dr. overcrowded classrooms (some as high Paul Johnson, as the college’s first Ben Schears Class of 2001 as double their normal occupancy) president. Only 8 short months Vice President of and higher than acceptable student to later, after battling a brief illness, Dr. Institutional Advancement faculty ratios. We endured. Johnson passed away. We endured.

1 - pg.3-4 Reece Bohannon pg.3 pg.5 Out of Africa pg.6 New York Conservatory pg.7 Commencement pg.8 Duck Dash pg.7 pg.9 Clementes pg.10 Groves Scholarship pg.11-12 pg.12 Outstanding Tiger Alumni pg.13 Volleyball All-Americans pg.14 Student Showcase pg.15 Cup Standings/ Reece Bohannon pg.16 We Heard From/ pg.6 Groves Scolarship pg.17 Out of Africa/ Duck Dash/ Clementes pg.18 We want to hear from you

Stories by Rama Peroo and Ben Schears. Layout and Design by Kris Ripley. - 32 Alumni & Friends

and, during one of was back when bamboo poles our recent visits, he were being used,” he said. “They asked me if I could stopped using them because they locate some old didn’t have much flex and would benches he built break.” years ago when he worked at He didn’t have access to the the college. He popular steel poles that were thought they being used in the wake of athletes might be out by injured by broken bamboo poles. Ireland Hall – Characteristic of what would the ‘original define much of Reece’s life, he stone high improvised and made one. school’ – a “The high school didn’t have any building of the new style poles to practice of historical significance with, so I cut a hackberry tree of which I am quite fond. This sapling and learned to vault with one simple request sent me on a it.” As I walked along the sidewalk mission that has not only allowed toward the building, I couldn’t me to have a small hand in saving Being an all-around athlete, Reece help but admire the timeless the benches, but has earned attended Ark City Junior College beauty of the limestone blocks that me the opportunity to sit at his (ACJC) on a basketball scholarship had been so carefully set in place kitchen table, sip ice water and be and was on the 1952-1953 to create the timeless and sturdy captivated while Reece recounted basketball team, which earned retaining wall. As I walked up the stories, memories and love he distinction for their 2nd place the steps toward the voluminous shares for this college. finish at the national tournament. wooden doors of the building, I His track skills would eventually High School and College Years lead him to the ACJC track team passed by two benches painted a Growing up 30 miles east of muted shade of red to match the where he would go on to compete Arkansas City in the little town in both the pole vault and the trim of the building. I had passed of Cedar Vale, Reece looks back these benches dozens of times over high jump. During his time at fondly on his upbringing and the ACJC, he quickly became involved the years with a cursory glance and experiences he had, and admits he had, on more than one occasion, both on and off the field. He was was somewhat naïve in his younger selected to serve as freshmen class sat down to visit or relax for a few years. minutes to take in the beauty of president, played trumpet in the Ireland Hall. Little did I know at “When I was in high school we band, and sang in the choir. the time, I was resting on a treasure were given a poll and asked the There were several people of historical value to the college. question whether the government who were influential to Reece’s This treasure may have faded off would lie to us.” Laughing, Reece success during his time at ACJC into oblivion had it not been for said, “Our poll came out 32-0 that including instructors J. Kelsey an old football reunion and the the government would not lie to its Day (who taught Geography and chance meeting of alumni, coach, citizens.” Biology) and W.G. Bunt Speer former teacher Reece Bohannon. On the field he was a standout (who taught Mathematics and Reece and I have talked a few track athlete with a particular coached Track). Of the instructors times over the past couple of years talent for the pole vault. “That at the college at that time, none

3 - had a greater impact on as the Machine Shop the Recreation Center. at some point, came to his development as a instructor for a base “Teaching salaries rest outside of Ireland person and on his life salary of $2,900 a year. weren’t very high and Hall after the college as did Basketball coach Long before planning a guy always had to be took ownership of the Dan Kahler. Thinking periods were a part of a working something on building in the 1980’s. back on Kahler’s impact, teacher’s work day, he the side to make ends When I learned about Reece reflected “If there was expected to teach a meet,” he recalls. the benches from Reece, is any goodness in me, full day of courses, and I called Todd Ray, a Dan had something to if he wanted to coach, he One afternoon, the longtime supervisor do with it.” would need to do so in call came from K.R. in our maintenance the evenings. “It was 21 Galle, dean of the department, and shared After graduating from years of teaching before college, asking Reece to the story with him. It ACJC in the spring of I got my first planning construct a few benches wasn’t long before he 1954, Reece continued period,” he chuckled. to sit outside one of and his staff had loaded on to Kansas State the buildings. very the benches up and took Teachers College (now In keeping with his love comfortable with being them back to the shop known as Emporia State of sports, he decided to able to build about for some freshening up. University). There he step into a coaching role. anything he put his mind With hands that knew earned his teaching to Reece, being able to and appreciated the degree and achieved “During these years, build anything he put if you wanted to coach heritage of the benches, renown for his 2nd his mind to, quickly they wire brushed the place pole-vault finish you were required to built the benches out be involved in 3 sports faded black paint off the in the NAIA National of materials he had on pipes, replaced the aging Championship, earned and the pay was $100 hand in the machine per sport per year,” he wood, and gave them all distinction as an athletic shop. a fresh coat of paint. All-American, and set recalled. the school’s basketball “I put it together with About a month after Throughout his time as spare pieces of metal I scoring record. a coach at ACJC, Reece we last met, Reece was had around the shop,” sitting in my office Coming Back to ACJC had the pleasure to serve Reece said. “It’s made as head coach of the visiting and wrapping up Flash back with me out of the real stuff – a few last items for the for a moment to the track and golf programs, ¼” pipe – but I never as co-coach and assistant article. As we prepared year 1959. It was a year thought it would last this to walk across campus, framed in history by coach for basketball, and long.” as an assistant coach for he mentioned it had the rise of Fidel Castro been several decades and the establishment football. Preserving History For the past 55 years, since he had taken a of the first communist For nearly 10 years, trip through the college nation in the West, the the benches have floated Reece and his wife raised around the campus and, Continued on page 15 expansion and addition three kids while he of Alaska and Hawaii to worked for the college the United States, and teaching both machine an average yearly wage shop and science courses. for most Americans of He would remain at $5,000. It was a time ACJC until 1967, when when a loaf of bread he took a teaching would only set you back position working for .20 cents and you could Arkansas City High fill your gas tank for School. .25 cents per gallon. It was not an easier time He learned back in by any means, but life his college years to seemed simpler…and balance his busy lifestyle people, less distracted by and quickly employed techno gadgets and cell the same skills while phone apps, spent time teaching, coaching and sitting on front porches being involved in the and benches enjoying Ark City community. their time talking to one Running in tandem another. with his professional career, for 37 years, he For Reece, the year was well known around This 6-inch telescope was built from scratch by 1959 found him back at town for running the ACJC taking up the role Bohannon (pictured right). The sister 12-inch local Paris Park Pool for telescope resides at the University of Kansas. - 4 Alumni & Friends Out of Africa and prepare for marriage. Facing an early Ritah’s mother did not marriage and a life being share the same belief as treated inferior to men, her husband because she Ritah Maitha made the knew that one day Ritah difficult decision to leave would rescue her and her family in Kenya and her daughters from the seek a better existence in brutal traditional culture. America. “One of my aunts from Ritah is one of eight my mother’s side was children consisting of educated; therefore, she two girls and six boys. had rejected all those Her experiences in traditional cultures life compelled her to because it was a way of share her amazing story belittling women and through an expressive girls in the society,” essay in Julie Kratt’s Maitha said. “My mother English Composition 1 talked to my aunt about class. my full scholarship and my father’s plans. After “It was actually hearing what I was very easy for me to going through, my aunt put my thoughts to decided that I should paper because my life move to her home to experiences in the village avoid the early marriage still torments me and it and to complete my is very difficult to forget,” education.” Maitha said. Angry at his daughter’s where someone has to “I was thrilled because Ritah’s father catered to decision, Ritah and her risk his or her life to gain I knew that my dream his sons’ needs but cared mother endured horrible an education.” career of becoming a little for his daughters’ threats from her father lawyer will be possible in education. unless she returned After high school, Ritah America because it is the home and got married. dreamed of becoming a land of milk and honey,” “My father took me to lawyer. school unwillingly, so I Hearing of the threats, Ritah said. Ritah’s aunt hired was in and out of school “After all that I had Ritah wound up living most of the time because security guards to watch gone through with my over her house. in Wichita, KS and he was getting late to father and knowing that obtained a full-time paying my school fees,” Despite the chaos, many more girls are job. She heard from Maitha said. “He made Ritah continued her out there facing similar colleagues at work that sure that my brothers’ schooling and ended up problems and they have Cowley College offered school fees were paid graduating from high nobody to fight for them, online classes and and right on time, but school two years later. I decided to take a career enrolled at the school he never cared about my that will benefit the majoring in pre-law. sister and I whether we “I admire Ritah,--and women and girls in the attended school or not.” her mother, and aunt-- society,” Maitha said. “My experience for being willing to risk at Cowley has been Ritah’s teachers in their security, homes, However, Ritah was wonderful,” Ritah Kenya saw great potential and lives to help Ritah unable to afford college. said. “My instructors in her and approved a attend school,” Kratt She continued to live have been very good full scholarship for her said. “I know that many with her aunt, working that I recall some very because of her academic students face challenges blue collar jobs and good comments and prowess. However, her in being able to come holding onto her dream. encouraging words from father was not happy to to college. Sometimes them.” hear of the scholarship, After several there are family issues years, Ritah got the and when Ritah reached and sometimes there are Once Ritah graduates the age of 15, he asked opportunity to come to from Cowley, she plans financial challenges, but America. her to drop out of school rarely do we see a case Continued on page 17 5 - Hooley joins others in New York at age 11 when she played a “Mrs. Ewing taught me so much munchkin in Arkansas City High about acting,” Hooley said. “I also Thanks to an anonymous good School’s production of “The became a better person by being a deed by a local couple, former Wizard of Oz”. She also began to part of the Theatre Department at Cowley College student Rose sing while in the middle school Cowley.” Hooley had an opportunity to choir. attend the school’s trip to New York Fizer, who was Cowley College’s in the spring. That trip led to an As a member of Cowley’s 2013 homecoming king, first audition and eventually acceptance Theatre Department, Hooley performed on Cowley’s theatre into the prestigious New York had roles in “Noises Off” and stage during the school’s Conservatory for Dramatic Arts in “White Christmas” prior to her Children’s Theatre production of June. performance in “Peter Pan”. “Monster in the Closet”. Hooley will join Cowley College “She is going to get loads more “After that first play I was graduates Hayley Rogers (Class of experience in New York and will hooked,” Fizer said. “My passion 2013) and fellow theatre student be with others that have the same and love for theatre grew from Gary Fizer III (Class of 2014) at heart and drive that she does,” there.” the New York Conservatory for Ewing said. Dramatic Arts. Rogers is already at Fizer also had acting parts in the school, while Fizer was accepted Hooley hopes her opportunity to Cowley’s theatre productions of to the school in January. attend the New York Conservatory “Cactus Flower”, “The Beeple”, for Dramatic Arts will allow her “White Christmas”, “Noises Off”, After serving in the lead role of to learn as much as she can about “The Drowsy Chaperone”, “A “Peter Pan” in Cowley College’s acting and help her pursue her Walk in the Woods”, and “Peter Theatre Department’s Spring Play, dream of performing on Broadway Pan”. Theatre Director Dejon Ewing or in the movies. was approached by a local couple The three former Cowley College that inquired about Hooley. After “I also hope to inspire other students will have each other to learning she was not going to have people around here,” Hooley lean on in New York. the finances to attend the New said. “There are a lot of talented kids around Arkansas City and “It will be invaluable for them to York trip the couple offered to pay have somebody there to go through Hooley’s way. hopefully seeing something like this will make them want to pursue the experience with,” Ewing said. “They asked me to urge her to see their dreams.” as many (Broadway) shows as she could and audition if possible,” Hooley credits Ewing with Ewing said. helping her receive this opportunity. Hooley’s first acting role came

Rose Hooley, far left as Peter Pan, prepares to battle Addam Porter playing Captain Hook. sGary Fizer III is also pictured in the production of Cactus Flower. - 6 Alumni & Friends 91st Commencement exercises

graduate of Cowley College, while The students included summer Linda is a 1970 graduate of the 2013 graduates through summer A total of 306 students college. 2014 graduates. A total of 683 participated in Cowley College’s students were candidates for 91st Commencement exercises May The Hargroves served as graduation. 10 inside W.S. Scott Auditorium. the featured speakers at Commencement while Student A reception for graduates, Along with the conferring of Senate president Kelsea Barr and family members, and friends was degrees, college alumni Ed and Student Senate vice president held immediately following the Linda Hargrove were presented Clayton Bringer, also addressed the ceremony in the Earle N. Wright with this year’s Outstanding Tiger class. Community Room inside the Alumni Award. Ed is a 1967 Brown Center. Starting a Scholarship Fund Expendable scholarships are funded by direct gifts from you each year to the Endowment Association Did you know there are two types of scholarships and then passed directly to Cowley students in a you can establish through the Cowley College scholarship. Unlike endowed scholarships however, they Endowment Association? We have the ability to only remain for as long as you continue to fund them. work with donors to establish both fully endowed scholarships and expendable scholarships to benefit Funding your scholarship can be done through Cowley students. What are the differences you may ask? yearly gifts, one-time gifts, memorials, life-insurance, stocks/bonds, trusts, estate bequests or a host of other Endowed scholarships are a wonderful option for methods. If this article has raised your interest in individuals who are looking to establish a permanent establishing a scholarship with Cowley College, we scholarship that will last perpetually. Once your would be glad to work with you to set one up! Give Ben scholarship fund has reached $10,000 (through Schears a call at 620.441.5245 to learn more. funding options listed below) it will be endowed. The investment earnings will be used to provide scholarships. This allows you to leave a legacy and have a lasting impact. You can continue to grow the scholarship even after it has been established! 7 - Duck Dash raises more than $21,000

Enjoying beautiful surroundings, great food, and entertainment, 350 people attended the 17th annual Great Cowley Duck Dash held May 17 at Winfield’s Spring Hill Farms. The Great Cowley Duck Dash, which featured a duck race and duck squat, has raised well over $200,000 for student scholarships over the past 17 years. This year’s event raised more than $21,000 for student scholarships. “This was one of the largest years of support we have seen raised through the Duck Dash,” vice president for institutional advancement Ben Schears said. “People believe in the mission of the Endowment Association and it’s always touching to see them step up and support our student scholarship program.” Steve English, president of Trust Company of Kansas, entertained the crowd as the emcee for the races. Bob Tyler was the winner of * U.S. Government Series Books – Dan Jurkovich the duck race and the $1,000 EE Bond provided by The Trust cash prize. David Avery was the Company of Kansas — Julie * Personalized street sign winner of the duck squat and was Rorabaugh provided by The City of Arkansas awarded $500. There were also 27 City – Larry and Joyce Creel * Large maple or oak tree door prize winners at the event, * Custom painted fire while former journalism director provided by Gottlob Lawn and Landscape — Slade Griffiths hydrant provided by The City of Dave Bostwick provided musical Arkansas City and Rob Carroll’s entertainment along with Dave * Ping-Pong table provided by Sandblasting and Painting – Swiercinsky and Tim Newton. Sears in Winfield — Patty Mugler Marvis and Jim Gaddie Great Western Dining catered the dinner. * $25 Vintage on 9th gift * Health & wellness basket certificate provided by Friend of provided by Anytime Fitness – There were 736 ducks sold for the Endowment Association – Jean Rhoda MacLaughlin duck race. Hill * Two half-hour massages Door prize winners: * $25 Junk Generation gift provided by Tina Stewart at A * Cowley County fly over certificate provided by Friend of Break from Reality — Karen Zeller, provided by B Four Flying — Jamie Endowment Association – Gary Chris Cannon and Pat McCutcheon McGee * $75 Massage Certificate from * Basket of specialty food items * Computer tune-up certificate Tina Stewart at A Break from provided by Dick and Dolly Bonfy provided by McDonald’s Reality provided by Rogers Family — Dale Ramsey Computer Service – Curt Freeland Dentistry — Mauricio Herrera * Collectible coin set provided * Reliable Steamboy * Gift card to Luciano’s by CornerBank — Mike Groves Steam Floor Mop provided by Restaurant provided by Elizabeth McDonald’s Vacuum & Used Continued on page 17 - 8 Alumni & Friends Clementes provide sense of home Logan have also gotten “Even though I will not “It is so important for an opportunity to forge be in Kansas anymore, I our student-athletes to Noticing a friendships with the will always consider them have a place where they couple of college aged student-athletes. as my foster parents or feel like home.” international girls my American family as walking into church “It’s become a big I prefer to call them,” The Clementes live alone each Sunday, Chris family thing to where Gronas said. only seven blocks from Clemente wondered Barcley and Barry have the college. Their who the young ladies them at their house all Nearly all of the large two-story house were. Then one Sunday the time as well,” Chris former foster athletes has an outdoor pool, after church while she said. stay in touch with the guest house, sunroom, and her husband, John, Clementes either by and spacious living were having breakfast The Foster Parent phone or by visiting room, which is nice for at Brick’s Restaurant program exists to Arkansas City. Goda entertaining guests. Also, in Arkansas City, help student-athletes Jankauskaite, an All- each fall the Clementes the pair entered the from other states and American on the 2011 host a picnic for the establishment. countries adjust to their national champion Lady women’s basketball new surroundings. Tiger volleyball team, team at their ranch in When the Clementes Foster parents provide came back to Arkansas Winfield. noticed the young ladies the occasional home City last Christmas having trouble with cooked meal and general and stayed with the “It has been a their credit card, John emotional support to Clementes for nearly a tremendous asset for walked up and took those athletes who are month. us as a program to care of the bill. Since miles away from their have people like the that cold, blustery day families. While, former All- Clementes that care in November 2007, American basketball about the well being of the Clementes have All-American player Ariani Silva our student-athletes,” done their best to be basketball player Emilie returned from Brazil to Clark said. there for numerous Gronas was one of visit the Clementes in student-athletes in the Clemente’s foster April. Gronas, who came Cowley College’s kids over the past two to Cowley from Foster Parent program, years and will miss the “That speaks a lot as Bergen, Norway, said including former couple as she prepares to how important they the Clementes were volleyball standout Lucia to play basketball at are to the kids,” Cowley invaluable to her success Cizmarova from Slovakia Duquesne University in women’s basketball at Cowley. and All-American Pennsylvania. coach Todd Clark said. basketball player Elena Continued on page 17 Yankova from Bulgaria, who were the two girls the couple met nearly seven years ago. “From that day on those two practically lived at our house,” Clemente said. John and Chris have two daughters, Barcley and Heather, who both took classes at Cowley. Barcley and her husband, Barry, live in Ark City and have also become very close to the Cowley kids. Chris and John’s grandchildren, Cooper, Trevor, Jordey, and Pictured from left, Lucia Cizmarova, Elena Yankova, Chris Clemente, Karolina Porizkova, Kasia Siwosz, and John Clemente. 9 - Swisher awarded Groves Scholarship

In honor of former Cowley College golfer Brian Groves, Cowley College sophomore Morgan Swisher was named this year’s Brian Groves Memorial Scholarship recipient during the 20th annual Tiger Skins/ Brian Groves Memorial Golf Tournament held June 28 at Winfield’s Quail Ridge Golf Course. Cowley College interim president Tony Crouch, athletic director Shane Larson and Brian Groves’ father, Mike, were on hand to present Swisher with the award. Swisher is a member of the softball team and is majoring in psychology. She has a grade point average of 3.58. Brian Groves (Class of 1998) was a member of the Tiger golf team before moving on to Southwestern College in Winfield. He was tragically killed in a one-vehicle accident in 2002. With 19 teams taking part in the Tiger Skins/Brian Groves Cowley College interim president Tony Crouch presents Memorial Golf Tournament, Morgan Swisher with an award for being named the recipient the event continues to serve as of the Brian Groves Memorial Scholarship. a successful fundraiser for Tiger Booster Club scholarships. Along was good for sixth in the nation the rain-shortened event. Larson with the 76 golfers, several area and led the team in triples with donated his winnings back to the businesses helped sponsor the eight which tied her for first in the Tiger Booster Club. event. nation. “Despite the weather issues, Although there were several Not only did Swisher establish everyone still enjoyed their time at worthy candidates for the Brian herself as one of the top softball the tournament,” Larson said. “We Groves Memorial Scholarship, players in the nation she also are so grateful to the participants in the end, the school could not excels in the classroom. After her and sponsors that made this go wrong with selecting Morgan freshman year at Cowley she has tournament possible.” Swisher. earned 36 credit hours and was recently selected by the faculty Members of the Cowley College As a freshman at Cowley, she Spirit Squad and Tigerette established herself as one of the and staff at Cowley to serve as a Student Ambassador for the 2014- Danceline assisted with the top softball players in the nation tournament. during the 2014 season. She was 15 school year. voted a unanimous first team “Morgan is an excellent ball A drawing for 47 door prizes All-Region VI outfielder, which player, student, and an even better was announced during the awards led to her being named first team person,” Cowley softball coach Ed ceremony held following the golf NJCAA All-American. Hitting Hargrove said. tournament. second in the lineup, Swisher led the Lady Tigers in hitting with a As for the golf tournament, the Tournament sponsors were .458 batting average which ranked team of Shane Larson, Lance Andreas Law Office, Ark City ninth nationally. She led the team Dible, Mike Williams, and Ryan Chamber of Commerce, Ark City in stolen bases with 29, which Renteria finished in first place in Continued on page 16 - 10 Alumni & Friends

Having brought recognition of 292 wins and pride to the Cowley College and 115 losses me to come community through their in 10 seasons back and start achievements in their chosen as the school’s the women’s profession and in their service to head volleyball basketball the community, Ed and Linda coach, while program, and I Hargrove were recently named going 316-112 in was really excited recipients of the Outstanding Tiger 17 seasons as the to do this in Alumni Award by the Cowley head women’s 1972.” College Endowment Association. basketball coach. She went on to Each year the Cowley College Linda earned have a successful Endowment Association selects National Coach stint as the an Outstanding Tiger Alumnus to of the Year honors head women’s bring honor to alumni who have in 1987, was named basketball coach led successful careers after Cowley Region VI Coach of at Wichita State and who have given financial the Year four times, University and is support to further the mission of and coached several the second all-time the Endowment Association. All-Americans in winningest coach in basketball and the history of that The couple, who have been program. married since 1970, have volleyball. demonstrated outstanding “I loved every She later served as leadership during their time at the minute I coached at the general manager school. Ed, who has coached the Cowley,” Linda said. and head coach of Cowley softball team since 1985, “I think our success the Portland Fire is the school’s all-time winningest was due to recruiting of the Women’s coach, while Linda achieved the really good players/ National Basketball most wins in the history of the people who were competitive and Association and went on Lady Tiger basketball program. wanted to win as bad as I did.” to become the general manager for the Washington Mystics and “Ed and Linda have both Along with coaching at Cowley, an advisor for the WNBA’s Tulsa individually had outstanding she also served as the Director Shock. careers,” Ben Schears, vice of Admissions and the Region president for institutional 6 Director. Linda was also an “I loved coaching at Wichita advancement said. “They love the outstanding athlete at Cowley and State and then in the pros,” college and it’s not often we have started Cowley’s track team. Hargrove said. “Working with a married alumni couple who have really motivated players and staffs reached their level of achievements. “I was running at a national level was especially rewarding. As GM The contributions they have made in high school and AAU but there I really enjoyed evaluating talent throughout their respective careers were few opportunities for girls in and negotiating trades, managing in support of the college made sports back in the late 60’s,” Linda the cap and leading the staff. The them a clear choice for this year’s said. “My dad said that I would worst part was waiving really good award.” go to Cowley and if I wanted to hardworking players.” continue to compete then I could Linda is a 1970 graduate of start a track team. I talked with Dr. She was inducted into the initial Cowley College. She is the only Nelson, President, and he was so class of the Cowley Tiger Athletic Cowley coach to take basketball supportive. He even drove some of Hall of Fame in 2000 and is a and volleyball teams to the national us to track meets. Later he asked member of the Southwestern tournament. She compiled a record College Hall of Fame, NJCAA Hall 11 - of Fame, and the Kansas Sports programs over the past 30 years. Hargroves have received together. Hall of Fame. Hargrove, a 1967 graduate of “That we get to share this award Linda was humbled to learn she Cowley College, has received makes this award that much more and Ed were recipients of this numerous athletic awards through special,” Ed Hargrove said. year’s Outstanding Tiger Alumni the years, but this award has extra Award. significance. Linda echoed those sentiments. “Cowley meant so much to me “I know many of the previous “I think it is only right that we for so many years, and this just Outstanding Tiger Alumni are recognized together,” Linda makes me feel really special,” recipients, so to now be in that said. “Cowley has meant so much Hargrove said. group is somewhat overwhelming,” to both of us over the years and Hargrove said. also our kids and extended family. Ed Hargrove spent the past 30 Cowley was definitely a family years as the head softball coach at This is the first award that the affair for the Hargroves.” Cowley and his more than 1,142 wins ranked first in the nation on the National Junior College Athletic Association wins list prior to his recent retirement. The Lady Tigers won eight of the past 12 Jayhawk East championships and placed in the top-seven at the national tournament each of the past three seasons. For his efforts, he was named the 2013 Jayhawk East Coach of the Year while he and assistant coach, Jenny Hoyt, were named the National Fastpitch Coaches Association NJCAA Division II National Coaching Staff of the Year in 2013. Prior to becoming the head softball coach at Cowley College he attended Cowley on a football scholarship. Known as an outstanding athlete, he played football for the Tigers during the 1965 and 1966 seasons and graduated from the school in 1967. He was an all-conference right tackle for the Tiger football team. He was named the Jayhawk Conference Eastern Division Coach of the Year eight times and was inducted into the NJCAA Softball Hall of Fame in 2007 and the Cowley Tiger Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009. He also received the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission Outstanding Achievement Award and was the recipient of the Pride of Kansas Award from the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his years of dedication and commitment to the youth of Kansas in his role as head coach of one of the most successful softball

- 12 Alumni & Friends All-Americans sign with 4-year schools

Four members of the winningest sophomore class in the history of the Cowley College volleyball program recently signed letters of intent with four-year schools. First-Team All-Americans, setter Katelynn Slade and outside hitter B.J. Specht, along with Second- Team All-American middle hitter Jessica McDougald and Honorable Mention All-American libero McKenzie Hartzog, helped Cowley win 73 of 78 matches during their two years at Cowley. The four players also helped the Lady Tigers capture the 2013 national championship and finish as the national runner-up at the Volleyball All-Americans B.J. Specht, Katelynn Slade, McKenzie 2012 national tournament. Hartzog, and Jessica McDougald are surrounded by their Lady Tiger teammates during their signing with four-year schools. Jenifer Bahner, who spent the past five seasons as head coach at Cowley prior to taking the head coaching job at NCAA Division team in digs (488) and aces (38) “I wouldn’t be the player I am II Drury University, could not be and was named Kansas Jayhawk today without the coaches at prouder of this sophomore group. Community College Conference Cowley,” Hartzog said. (KJCCC) Player of the Week three “This sophomore class is overall times during the regular season. The sophomores finished their the best group of student-athletes two years at the school with a pair I ever worked with during my time “Going into a different school it of Jayhawk Conference Eastern at Cowley,” Bahner said. “They will be nice to have that comfort Division titles and a conference were good people and great players level with my coach to where she record of 20-0. They also captured and demonstrated superior class.” knows what I can do and can a pair of district titles to go along help me continue to improve as a with a national runner-up finish Slade signed with NCAA player,” Specht said. and a national championship. Division I Wofford University (Spartanburg, S.C.), while One year after leading the nation Along with winning its second McDougald signed with NCAA in assists, Slade finished second in national championship in the past Division II school University of the nation in assists per set (11.8) three years, Cowley finished the Central Missouri (33-2 record in as a sophomore. season unbeaten in the Jayhawk Conference Eastern Division (10-0) 2013). Hartzog signed with NCAA “This sophomore group, Division II Washburn University and won its final 14 matches. The including Tory (Sharp), was very Lady Tigers finished the season (31-6 record in 2013), and Specht close,” Slade said. “It was awesome will follow Bahner to Drury. with a record of 35-4 and extended to cap the season with a national its home court-winning streak to “They have all found the right championship.” 60 matches in a row. place for them,” Bahner said. “It’s McDougald led the team in solo “It was awesome to see the crowd exciting to have a player like B.J. bocks (60) and was second in kills going with me to Drury. She will support for each home game,” (390), while Hartzog led Cowley McDougald said. be a good representative of what in digs (763). McDougald was we want to do at Drury.” named KJCCC Player of the Week Specht, who was named the twice during the regular season, national tournament Most and Hartzog was named KJCCC Valuable Player, finished the Defensive Player of the Week five season with a team-high 499 times. kills. She was also second on the 13 - Artwork purchased at student showcase “I love old buildings and have Allison has been employed at always loved Ireland Hall,” Saint Paul United Methodist Continuing its support of Cervantes said. “To have Cowley Church in Arkansas City for the student works, Cowley College’s Endowment purchase my photo is past eight years. Endowment Association recently quite an honor.” purchased a pair of framed Ben Schears, Cowley College’s photographs at the Life: Through Allison, who recently graduated vice president for institutional Words and Lens event on from Cowley College with an advancement, enjoys seeing the Thursday, May 8. associates degree in liberal arts, unique perspectives of campus took the photography class with facilities as well as the different The photographs purchased were the intent to learn more about her landmarks from around Cowley taken by Marlys Cervantes and camera. County, and was happy to Shawna Allison, who were students purchase the photos for the in Meg Smith’s digital photography She ended up selling a total of Endowment Association. class. three pieces at the event. The Endowment Association purchased “It is part of the Endowment Cervantes, the Humanities her photo titled “Pathway to Association’s mission to support Department Chair at Cowley Where”. students and the arts, and this College, had only dabbled in wonderful venue gave us the photography prior to taking the “I love pictures of things that opportunity to do both,” Schears digital photography class. The remind me of the past,” Allison said. Endowment Association purchased said. “It is extremely overwhelming her photo of Ireland Hall titled to have people think that much of “Skewed”. my photos.”

Those pictured from left are, endowment coordinator Elizabeth Thummel, Shawna Allison, vice president of institutional advancement Ben Schears, humanities department chair Marlys Cer- vantes, and scholarship coordinator Lisa Grose.

- 14 Alumni & Friends Cowley finishes 12th in Cup standings athletics have placed in the top-12 seasons as the men’s and women’s of the NATYCAA Cup standings. teams each placed fourth Continuing to demonstrate nationally. The Lady Tiger softball tremendous success in athletics, “This speaks volumes to the team also did well as they won Cowley College finished 12th quality of work our coaches do on 44 games and placed seventh in during the 2013-14 season in the a day-to-day basis,” Cowley athletic the nation. Also, the Tiger men’s NATYCAA (National Alliance director Shane Larson said. indoor track and field team placed of Two-Year College Athletic 16th at the national meet, while Administrators) Cup standings, In the fall, the Lady Tiger volleyball team went 35-4 and the women finished 19th. Cowley’s which recognizes excellence in two- men and women’s outdoor track year college athletics. finished as the national champion for the second time in three years. and field teams placed 19th and The NATYCAA Cup program Additionally, the Cowley men’s 22nd, respectively. was begun in 2004 and was cross country team placed 22nd The Tiger women’s basketball previously sponsored by Pepsi. This nationally. team (22-9) and Cowley baseball program recognizes excellence in team (38-17) also had strong two-year college athletics based This spring, Cowley’s tennis teams had extremely successful seasons but came up just short of on success in championship qualifying for nationals. competition. Points for the NATYCAA Cup are calculated based on each college’s finish at NJCAA Tournaments. Each first place finish is worth 20 points, second place 19, third 18, and so on. Total scores for both men’s and women’s programs are combined for their total score. Nearly 400 community colleges registered points in the standings. Iowa Western won the scholarship division of the NATYCAA Cup, while Cowley finished as the top Jayhawk Conference school in the standings. The 12th place finish marks the eighth straight year that Cowley

Reece Bohannon (continued) facilities. I was anxious to show college. heritage that makes this college as him the refurbished benches, so great as it truly is. Along the way, we wrapped up and headed off In an era where we find ourselves we are blessed to make new friends toward Ireland Hall. At 79 years caught in the tide of whatever with people like Reece who share young, Reece showed the energy new fad or trend society says we our passion and vision. and enthusiasm of a man half his should be chasing, we find it easy age. After taking the photo on to fall prey to forgetting the care, For decades the benches have the bench, we worked our way attention, and effort put forth by dutifully served their purpose. around the rest of the campus - those who came before us. The Now, thanks to a simple question walking through buildings, talking historical preservation of Cowley and a little bit of effort, they will about the growth of the college College is an unwritten, but be around for decades to come, and me listening intently as he morally obligated mission of the ever vigilant…sitting…ready and recounted stories of his time here. Endowment Association. It is our waiting for those who pass by to It’s moments like these that bring hope to assemble artifacts relevant slow down. To notice them. To me back to work each day, eager to the history of the college and to sit on them. And perhaps, if the to share the stories of friends like preserve the stories that accompany timing is right, to even spend Reece with readers like you who them, so that future generations of the time enjoying a conversation know, appreciate, and love this Cowley Tigers can appreciate the amidst their company. 15 - 1980’s We Heard From Regina (Musgrove) Sneeze, Class of 1988, and her husband, Robert, live in Fort Pierce, FL. The couple has two daughters, Asheia 24, and Precious 16. Regina 2000’s is a physical education teacher at Fort Pierce Central Zsofia Biro, Class of 2011, lives in Ypsilanti, MI. She High School in Florida. She recently graduated from spent this past season as a member of the Eastern Arkansas State University with a MS in Education Michigan University women’s tennis team and earned Curriculum and Instruction and plans to pursue a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Tourism. Zsofia hopes her Ed Specialist in Coaching Pedagogy. She played to play professional tennis in Europe. She enjoyed her volleyball and softball at Cowley College and was a experience at Cowley and appreciates everything the women’s basketball team manager and member of the school did for her. Black Student Union. She helped the volleyball team finish as Jayhawk East Tri-Champions in 1986 and was a member of the Lynora “Ellen” (Bayhylle) Henderson, Class of 2011, conference champion softball team in 1988. and her husband, Mike, live in Derby, KS. The couple have a combined five children and 12 grandchildren. David Smith, Class of 1984, and his wife, Audry, live in Coffeyville. Following teaching stints at LaVeta Wheeler, Class of 2002, lives in Oklahoma Highland Community College, Central Community City, OK. She is employed as a licensed social worker. College, and Neosho County Community College, David was recently appointed Dean of Instruction at Independence Community College in Independence, 1990’s KS. Sarah (Lovell) Morales, Class of 1999, and her husband, Len, live in Scottsdale, AZ. 1960’s R. Jeanette (Kelley) Elmore, Class of 1965, and her Shawn Leisinger, Class of 1990, and his wife, Marti, husband, Mark (deceased, Class of 1965), reside in live in Topeka. Shawn is the Executive Director of the Olathe, KS. The couple has two children, Brenton and Centers for Excellence at the Washburn University Tracie, and two grandchildren, Kelley 13, and Nikolai School of Law, while Marti is employed by the Kansas 12. The couple met at Cowley County Community Board of Regents. Shawn was elected as Chairman of College and spent 40 years together prior to Mark’s the Board of Trustees of the Topeka Civic Theatre and death in 2005. After Cowley, Mark went on to receive Academy in August. a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Wichita State University and a Master’s degree from Northern Colorado University. Jeanette was a receptionist and insurance clerk most of her career. She is currently retired and enjoys traveling and spending time with her grandchildren.

Brian Groves Memorial Scholarship (continued) Glass, Ark Valley Distributing, Ben and Rachel Schears, Community National Bank, Conco Construction, Hey Alumni! Cowley College Bookstore, Cowley Cinema 8, Dillons, Send us a picture of Divall Liquor, Elite Advertising, El Maguey, Galaxie Business, Golf Warehouse, Great Western Dining, somewhere exciting you James and Diann Schaefer, JD Liquor, Jennie Larson Photography, John and LeeAnn Sturd, Mid-West have traveled recently Electric, Nathan Niles Dentistry, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Paton Wholesale and Vending, Reedy Ford, Rindt- or an event you would like Erdman Funeral Home, Ron Godsey, Sedgwick County Zoo, Shangri-La Golf Club, Skinsations, us to share and we may Stock Exchange Bank, Summit Realty, Tony and Vicki Crouch, Travers Furniture, Union State Bank, United pick your photo and Agency, WB Meats, Wichita Wingnuts, Winfield caption to appear here! Motors, and Zeller Motors. - 16 Alumni & Friends Out of Africa (continued) to attend the University of self-independence,” education is of privilege education is of Kansas to pursue a Maitha said. “I also plan incalculable value to her before hearing Ritah’s Bachelor’s and Master’s to set up a law firm that and it was an honor and story,” Kratt said. degree in Law. Thereafter will provide pro bono a joy for Cowley to be a “Sometimes those who she plans to return to services to women who part of her dream come grow up with milk and Kenya and fight for are running away from true. honey fail to recognize women’s rights. FGM (Female Genital its sweetness; however, Mutilation) and forced “I don’t know if these I don’t think Ritah will “I plan to mobilize early marriages.” eighteen- and nineteen- ever forget it.” women from grass root year-old students had and train them on issues Kratt said Ritah’s ever considered what a Cowley Duck Dash (continued) Thummel – Alex Gottlob * Two Cowley gift basket provided by heat winners — Bob College Athletic Season Union State Bank — Tyler, Jeff and Gretchen * Gift card to Passes provided by Graves Drug Wacker, Ken and Bonnie Millington Place Eatery the Cowley Athletic Gilmore, Liz Shepard, provided by Steve and Department – Fred and * Pringles gift basket LaDonna Lanning Joyce McArtor – Lance Carol Bunting provided by Judge Niles Jim and Jan Pringle – * Losers Race $100 * $25 Red Feather Gordon & Associates Gift Card to Montana * One hour massage Boutique gift certificate Architects Mike’s — Kelly Johnson certificate from Deb Fry provided by Friend of at Time Out for Wellness Endowment Association * 30 minute massage provided by Rogers – LaVaughan Scheurich at Time Out for Wellness Family Dentistry – Jeff provided by Deb Fry – and Gretchen Wacker * $25 Quality LaDonna Lanning Outdoor Design gift * Set of Floor Liners certificate provided by * Four tickets to for Any Vehicle provided Friend of Endowment Motley Crue Final Tour by Winfield Consumer Association – Jim and with special guest Alice Products — Brandon and Wilma Mitchell Cooper – Roxann Taylor Melissa Guthrie * “Fun in the Sun” * Duck race $75 Clementes provide sense of home(continued) “When I came to “We have laughed and Porizkova, Natalia Cooper) are the kindest Cowley, I did not know a cried together,” Chris Medina, Adrijana people I have ever met,” single person. My family said. “They are all very Pavlovic, Diana Davitaia, Gronas said. “To share was thousands of miles smart girls, and it is and Maria Hernandez; so much love with who away, and I had never interesting to learn about women’s basketball is at first a total stranger lived away from home their cultures. I enjoy players Emilie Gronas, and most times from a before,” Gronas said. it, my kids enjoy it, and Julie Ravn, Ariani Silva, whole different country “Chris and John made so do my grandkids”, Lisa Angell, Brianna is a rare and wonderful Arkansas City a safe and it is very rewarding. It Gonzalez, Anna Sonka, thing. They will always be joyful place for me, and is a two-way street. We and Elena Yankova; in my heart and I know every second I spent both learn a lot and they volleyball players Lucia that I, together with all time with them I kind of become a part of the Cizmarova and Goda of the other foster girls forgot about how much family. We would like to Jankauskiate; men’s will always be in theirs as I missed home. They have every one of them if basketball player Bernard well.” simply just made my day we could.” Kamwa; and women’s better.” soccer players Aline The Clementes Tamiosso and Navara Do The Clementes have have worked with the Carmo. many fond memories following student-athletes of their time spent through the foster parent “Chris and John with student-athletes in program: and the rest of the Cowley’s Foster Parent Clementes (Heather, program. Women’s tennis players Clay, Logan, Barcley, Kasia Siwosz, Karolina Barry, Jordey, Trevor and

17 - College Trivia

These stones were placed all around campus during the 1970’s as part of a larger landscaping effort. Who was the individual responsible for bringing them to campus? If you know, send us an email to [email protected] or drop a letter in the mail with the answer. We’ll enter you into a drawing for a special alumni gift!

Be sure to read the next newsletter to learn the answer and a little history about the stones!

ATTENTION PARENTS - If you are receiving the Cowley Alumni News addressed to your son or daughter who no longer lives at this address, please use this form to notify us of his or her present address. Mail Alumni forms to: Director of Alumni & Endowment, Cowley College, 125 South Second Street, Arkansas City, KS 67005 1-800-593-2222 Ext. 5319.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Cowley Alumni & Friends Newsletter This form is for your convenience in sending news about yourself, your family, or other alumni. Published three times each year by the Let us know of any change in occupation, recent honors or degrees earned, marriages, births, Office of Endowment and memories of Cowley and any other news of interest. We want to hear from you and please send Public Relations us a photo of yourself if you have one. Cowley College, 125 South 2nd Arkansas City, KS 67005 Name ______Graduated Cowley ______Dr. Mr. Mrs. Ms. First Last Maiden Ben Schears, Vice President of Institutional Spouse’s Name ______Graduated Cowley ______Advancement Address ______620.441.5245 Street City State Zip [email protected] Check box if this is a new address Phone ______Elizabeth Thummel, Endowment Business Address/School Name ______Coordinator ______620.441.5319 [email protected] Your Title/Occupation ______Spouse’s Title/Occupation ______Children’s names and ages ______Rama Peroo, Director of Institutional Current activities, events or memories of C.C.C.C. ______Communications and ______Public Relations ______620.441.5587 [email protected] ______Kris Ripley, Graphic Designer E-mail address______620.441.5561 [email protected] Please correct any errors in your name or mailing address and send us the addresses of any alumni you know who are not receiving alumni publications. IF YOU ARE MOVING please notify the Alumni/Development Office of your change of address when you move.

- 18 Non-Profit Org ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED US Postage PAID Endowment and Alumni Relations Wichita KS 125 South 2nd, PO Box 1147 Permit # 1148 Arkansas City, KS 67005

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