SPRING/SUMMER 2018

Page 9 Page 17 Page 23 BEHIND THE SCENES RIVERHAWKS SCHOLAR PROGRAM ONE FAMILY SHARES IN NSU ARCHIVES PROMOTES INCLUSIVE EDUCATION ITS NSU LEGACY

THE OFFICIAL ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Making a Difference

Three stories of students and faculty giving back

Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 1 Hitting the books OPENING Author Brad Wagnon and illustrator Alex Stephenson read their books to area children during Literacy Night at the Cappi Wadley Reading and Technology Center SHOT in Bagley Hall. The pair also signed their books for the children during the event.

2 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 3 VITA Income Tax Prep Welcome PRESIDENT’S LETTER

THE OFFICIAL ALUMNI MAGAZINE BY THE NUMBERS OF NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Produced by the Northeastern State University Office of Communications & Marketing Dear Friends:

Every spring semester, Northeastern State University EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Greetings from your university. I hope in the appropriation bill for common accounting students use the skills they’ve been learning in Katie Barton this issue of Imprints finds you and education including a total of $640 yours well. million in new revenue. It is important to the classroom to benefit the community. note that these revenue-raising bills are MANAGING EDITOR / Penny and I are always amazed as the Through a partnership with the Volunteer Income Tax the first to be passed by the Oklahoma ASSISTANT DIRECTOR graduating class confidently strides legislature in 28 years. The FY 2019 Assistance program, student and faculty volunteers help across the stage at commencement. We Jennifer Zehnder budget includes a 19.7 percent increase low to moderate income taxpayers prepare and file their think, “What happened to that timid for K-12 public education compared to federal and state tax returns. freshman from four years ago who ASSOCIATE EDITOR this year. barely made eye contact?” The answer Carrie Moore is an easy one—Northeastern State For FY 19, there was no direct cut in locations where students assist community University. I hope you share our pride higher education funding. While it is members with income tax preparation through EDITORIAL ASSISTANT the NSU partnership with VITA in 2018: NSU-Broken in the legacy that our university builds significant that we will be going into 2 Arrow and Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah. Cami Highers ’05 upon every day—not in structures or a budget year with no additional cuts even academic achievements—but in the for the first time in four years, I should PHOTOGRAPHY people we help grow. point out that having flat appropriations does not mean a flat overall budget. For or or Pete Henshaw ’12 In this issue, you will meet a family who example, we anticipate an increase in $60K less $66K less Carrie Moore ‘14, ‘17 has several generations of Northeastern health insurance premiums effective Mallory Semrow '21 alumni. These are personal stories, but Income of individuals Income of individuals eligible January 2019. eligible to be served to use MyFreeTaxes, a self- they are also stories about communities through VITA. guided tax preparation CONTRIBUTORS that have been improved, personal Frankly, I think this information about software made available Don Vieth and professional goals that have been state funding makes many of the stories through a partnership with achieved, and human bonds that have in this issue even more impressive. Our United Way. been strengthened. staff and faculty continue to focus on LAYOUT & DESIGN student achievement and community Jeff Snodgrass ’99 You will also enjoy a feature offering stewardship. We appreciate your community members were served different perspectives on how our NSU efforts as informal recruiters as well— through the VITA Lab on the family members are “Giving Back” spreading the story of our institution. 417 NSUBA campus. to their various communities. This commitment is perhaps best expressed One final note—the elections are just by the iconic symbol of Northeastern around the corner and I encourage you to tax returns were filed through State University—Seminary Hall, vote and get involved. Ask the candidates the VITA Lab on the NSUBA campus. dedicated 129 years ago. On May 7, 1889, where they stand on fully funding public 402 The name Imprints is derived from the a large crowd gathered to open, and higher education in our state. hundreds of leaves stamped into the dedicate to education, the largest and Thank you for your continued interest in sidewalks of NSU. Like the imprints of faculty member, Dr. Justin Halpern, most expensive structure built for its your alma mater. organized the service to the 24 the leaves, all alumni have left a lasting time in what would become the state of community in the VITA Lab on the impression on the NSU community, and Oklahoma. NSUBA campus. student hopefully the university has had a similar 1 It is important that we acknowledge volunteers lasting impression on each alumnus and assisted alumna. This publication is designed to and support the continuing power of Sincerely, experienced community keep alumni up to date with the campus higher education. Nelson Mandela said, accountants members “Education is the most powerful weapon volunteered to with income community, because even after they’ve graduated their imprint remains. which you can use to change the world.” oversee students tax forms Unfortunately, our university’s ability to serving the on the Imprints, an exclusive benefit of Alumni provide the quality higher education our NSU-Broken community on the Association membership, is published in the state needs has been tested over the past NSU-Broken Arrow Arrow fall and spring. campus. campus. three years due to decisions made in the Dr. Steve Turner, President 2 state capitol. This publication was printed by Western Printing Company Inc. and issued by Northeastern State University as authorized by House However, in the session that ended early volunteered to assist at Bill 1714. 1,450 copies were printed; the total cost was $2,280. This on May 4, there was some positive news students institution, in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of the Cherokee Nation’s VITA Lab in 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Tahlequah. Amendment Act of 1972, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate 3 on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services.

4 | Imprints 4 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 5 Imprints | 5 Contents SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Alumni DIRECTOR’S LETTER

DEPARTMENTS Northeastern's oldest and newest traditions Northeastern Juxtaposed to the annual Seminary 8 | et cetera State University’s reunion is one of Northeastern’s newer Meet the 2018 Outstanding Seniors commencement traditions—the NSU Coin Walk. ceremonies were Nowadays, among the first events new NSU welcomes two new administrators held May 4, 5 and NSU freshmen participate in is the Coin Bestselling author David Grann speaks on campus 7. Nearly 1,100 Walk. The occasion takes place during ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS River’s Edge Coffee Shop opens on campus degree candidates Welcome Week, and has the freshmen EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Freshman interns at Smithsonian participated in class take a ceremonial walk from the the university’s main entrance of campus, up through NSU partners with Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office PRESIDENT most eagerly Centennial Plaza to the entrance of Andrea Tucker ’05 & ‘09 More students to benefit from PLC scholarships this fall anticipated rite of passage. Each of the Seminary Hall. Once again, hundreds fill Get to know the 2018 Centurions four ceremonies attracted thousands of the grounds outside of Seminary Hall. VICE PRESIDENT America Meredith is the 2018 Sequoyah Fellow loved ones and friends to witness this Michael Bolding ‘01 Before the walk, each freshmen receives Reach Higher helps working adults annual spring tradition. an NSU coin that features the official EVENTS CHAIR NSU professor releases second book on Kiowas This time of year brings together two University Seal on one side and NSU’s Carol Ann Barkley '78 other wonderful NSU traditions—one Core Values on the other. Tasked early old and one new. with one of their greatest challenges in GOVERNANCE CHAIR 9 | Talking Points college, freshmen are asked to hold onto Becky Gore ‘91 Go behind the scenes of NSU’s archives and see how they’re Northeastern’s oldest tradition actually the coin throughout their time at NSU. preserving history. predates Oklahoma statehood. The MEMBERSHIP CHAIR tradition commemorates the May 7, Eventually, freshmen become seniors, Gilbert Hall '81 1889 dedication of venerable Seminary and as they approach their final days 11 | In a Few Words Hall, home of the Cherokee National at NSU, they are invited to present that AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIP CHAIR Female Seminary. (Of course, those coin they received as a freshman to Lewis Wilson '72 How did you decide on your major? of you who paid attention in your someone who had a meaningful impact freshmen orientation class know that on their journey as a student. It might DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI SERVICES 13 | Q&A with a FAN Seminary Hall is actually the second be a professor, advisor, supervisor or Daniel Johnson ‘91 & '18 NSU-Broken Arrow Students in Instructor Rhea Kaltenbach’s Motor home of the female seminary. The first mentor. It is an especially touching Skill Development of the Young Child course use a parachute to Get to know Sunny Bennett, a member of the Future seminary building in Park Hill south gesture that is special for both the coin Alumni Network. demonstrate an activity that can be used in a physical education class. of Tahlequah was destroyed by fire on giver and recipient. Easter Sunday in 1887.) Both of these traditions, old and new, 14 | In Focus MEMBERS OF THE BOARD Except for a handful of wartime years, are meaningful to the NSU experience. 17 See what’s been happening at NSU the last few months. Seminary students, and now their Both observe the important role others descendants, have gathered every play in the progress of higher learning. Richard Carter '63 John Cox '85 & '89 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE year since 1889 on May 7 to tell tales, The Seminary descendants honor those Kristin Eller '08 NSU helps bring inclusive higher ed to Oklahoma 28 | Class Notes share photos, and reflect on the shared who charted a new course at what we Stephen Highers '05 Catch up with your old classmates. history and heritage of the Cherokee now recognize as the state’s oldest Anna Knight '86 & '93 Nation and Northeastern and both institution of higher learning. And in Justin Lindsey '92 7 '95 19 entities’ commitments to education. presenting their NSU coins, today’s Jessica Mugg '10 & '13 30 | Sports students honor those who helped them Suzanne Myers '84 & '93 GIVING BACK In the early days of the May 7 reunion, Students and faculty share the creative ways they’re Celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 1958 Football chart a new course in an age that those Bill Rauch '70 National Championship hundreds of participants filled the Seminary students would not have been Lisa Smith '01 making a difference in the community Help grow NSUAA grounds outside of Seminary Hall, able to even fathom. Kylé Thornton-Hicks '05 & '08 McKnight Jr joins Ravens camp cooked outdoors and were entertained Michael Turner '91 & '98 RiverHawks three-peat in Women's Golf throughout the day. While the number NSU Tennis reaches NCAA Elite Eight of participants has since dwindled 21 EX OFFICIO All-MIAA RiverHawks (Spring) and the reunion has moved to the ALL IN THE FAMILY Branscum Alumni Center, the tradition One family describes how they’ve been connected continues to this day and still attracts NSU PRESIDENT Steve Turner to NSU since the early 1900s ON THE COVER descendants of Seminary students from Mackenzie Oestreich and Liberty, a all over. Resulting from this tradition, Daniel Johnson DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT therapy-dog-in-training, take time out for Director of Alumni Services the Descendants of the Cherokee Peggy Glenn ‘90 a quick snapshot. The NSU sophomore has Seminaries Students Association 23 trained canines with Therapetics Service established a scholarship with the NSU FUNDING EDUCATION Dogs of Oklahoma for just over two years. FUTURE ALUMNI NETWORK PRESIDENT The organization trains dogs for clients Foundation that benefits descendants Cheyhoma Dugger ‘19 SNAG Golf tournament, Antons invest in education, students who have post-traumatic stress disorder attending NSU. and mobility needs.

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News ET CETERA collaborated with the Gilcrease Museum Talking Points and the Boston Public Library?

STUDENTS Can you tell me about the "cube?" Blain- In preservation we spend a lot Kaufman Kudos of time and effort trying to control the environmental factors that can lead 2018 Outstanding Seniors to problems with materials including humidity, air temperature and ultraviolet The Outstanding Senior recognition honors graduating seniors, nominated by NSU faculty and staff, who have made significant light exposure. We also work very contributions to NSU through academic achievement, campus activities, community service, honors and awards. The Alumni Association hard to keep air particles like dust and mold spores away from materials. bestows this recognition for the Tahlequah and Broken Arrow campuses each spring. Honorees receive a stole to be worn at graduation, a Unfortunately, Oklahoma can be a framed award certificate and a one-year membership to the Alumni Association. challenging and costly climate in which to preserve items. I designed and built a four-foot cube-shaped bubble from PVC framing and plastic sheeting that when paired with a dehumidifier results in a microclimate that is about 10 degrees warmer than the room temperature and about 50 percent less humid. This process has helped to combat moisture that can Brenda Bradford Blain McLain collect on the materials as they were refrigerated, as part of a process to control Kyle Bacon Darien Ball Brooke Bergman Alondra Bustamonte Alex Butcher Seth Clark mold spores. Kiefer Tulsa Blackwell Beaver Muldrow Roland Brenda Bradford, head of Special Collections & Archives and What has been your favorite Records Management coordinator, and Blain McLain, University memory of working with NSU Archives assistant, discuss Northeastern State University’s John archival memories? Vaughan Library Special Collections & Archives. Blain- Finding the Stand Watie treaty still stands out. Brenda asked me to go through a large collection that was assembled by T.L. Ballenger. While I was What does Special Collections their personal connection to the past. looking, there was one piece I noticed & Archives do? Their excitement, joy and enthusiasm is was a higher paper quality than the other Samira Darbandi Meisha Floyd Miranda Griffin Haley Griggs Kirstien Lindley Ian McAlpin Brenda- Special Collections & Archives contagious and makes me happy. items and it had a silk ribbon holding the Tulsa Broken Arrow Ketchum Poteau Tulsa Tahlequah are repositories for materials and pages together. I looked at the writing, information relating to university, Native What museums and institutions but it was in a big, scrawling cursive that American and regional history. I like to has NSU loaned items to? wasn't easy to read, so I flipped it over use the phrase “institutional memory” Brenda- In the past, we’ve had items on and on the back was half a page of text, when describing the role Archives plays display with the Oklahoma Historical a bunch of signatures and the date June in gathering and protecting NSU’s history. Society and the Cherokee Heritage 23, 1865. I Googled the date and the top Special Collections focuses specifically Center. We have also collaborated with result was the Wikipedia entry for Stand on Native American and regional cultural other institutions including the Gilcrease Watie and his final treaty of surrender. We history. Museum and the Boston Public Library. had one of two original treaty copies (the other in National Archives) from the Civil Chloe Moyer Gemini Parker Madison Smith Kaylee Switzer Heather Hill What is your favorite part of What would you say is the most War and didn’t know it. It was a timely Idabel St. Louis, MO Coweta Keys Oktaha being an archivist? ​ interesting thing you've come find, since we were about seven months Brenda- I really enjoy being able to share across? from the 150th anniversary. The treaty the rich history of the university with Brenda- I think for me, the photo was displayed at the Oklahoma Historical Jack Kaufman Senior of Distinction new students and community members. collections Archives holds will always Society in the capitol, in a collaboration I’ve had wonderful experiences hearing be the most interesting items. As a with the Gilcrease museum. It was also a family stories of people who have had photographer, I truly find myself being segment of the Osiyo TV show. Darien Ball | Tulsa relatives involved with the school for able to connect very personally with the decades, some even having ancestors history of the university when I view the who attended the original Seminaries. collections. Photographs tell us a story Through interviews with the Outstanding Seniors, the Alumni I also enjoy being able to help someone and provide another insight into the past. Board of Directors’ awards committee selects one individual as find a piece of information they did not the Jack Kaufman Senior of Distinction each year. previously know, that helps further

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News In a few words

STUDENT NEWS ADMINISTRATION Freshman to intern at National HOW DID YOU DECIDE ON YOUR MAJOR? Museum of the American Indian Introducing new of the Smithsonian Emily Barrett, a Northeastern State University GEMINI CREASON administrators freshman, has been offered a prestigious Graduate, May 2018 internship at the National Museum of the Major: Criminal Justice, Spanish and Sociology Dr. Debbie Landry American Indian at the Smithsonian in Hometown: Saint Louis, Missouri Provost and Vice President Washington, D.C. I have always had a passion for justice and I wanted to make for Academic Affairs a difference I could see in the world, which is what led me to Barrett, a business management major from criminal justice. I have an ear for language. I took French, Spanish Dr. Debbie Landry has served Springdale, Arkansas, will intern in the and German in high school and loved each of them. I wanted to as the interim provost since Executive Planning Office of the NMAI. During rediscover the art of second languages, so I declared another July 1, 2017. Prior to stepping her internship she’ll be working to develop major in Spanish. Then, I found that I loved researching social up as interim provost, and improve various projects throughout the issues with the desire to find solutions for them, so I decided to Landry had served as dean of the NSU College museum. major in Sociology as well, which is related to criminal justice. of Education since 2012. In addition to her “I’m most looking forward to learning more service to NSU, Landry holds a leadership role about my culture, Cherokee descent, while I in several organizations. She is a member of TUCKER MASTIN learn about what I am passionate about—which the Governor’s Education Advisory Committee, Author David Grann discusses his book "Killers of the Flower Moon" at the 2018 Larry Adair Lectureship. is business,” Barrett said. Graduate, May 2018 a national program reviewer for the Council Major: Applied Physics and Computer Science Barrett said she hopes to own a business, and for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation CAMPUS Hometown: Tahlequah, Oklahoma and she served as the Oklahoma Legislative this internship will help her build leadership Deciding on my majors was a slow process that included Committee Chair for Oklahoma Association skills which will be crucial in pursuing that goal exploring classes from almost every college. My first few of Colleges of Teacher Education. Landry is a Bestselling author brings book after she graduates. semesters I really let my curiosity motivate my course choices and after taking a programming class and a physics class I former state president for OACTE, has served She learned of the opportunity from a guest as a team member on the Board of Examiners discussion to campus almost instantly fell in love with the subjects. It was nearly speaker from the Smithsonian in Dr. Farina pure luck that I enrolled in the right courses that really David Grann’s book, “Killers of the Osage Murders and Birth of the FBI” for the National Council for Accreditation of King’s U.S. history class at NSU during the sparked my interest. Teacher Education and was a member of the Flower Moon” spent more than is set in the 1920s when the Osage fall 2017 semester. King said she was happy to State Department of Education Task Force in 20 weeks on The New York Times Indians became the wealthiest people recommend Barrett for the internship. 2015. Landry has been involved in numerous nonfiction bestseller list, collected in the world after the discovery of oil other activities and memberships in a variety of numerous awards and is being beneath their lands in Oklahoma. The professional societies. developed as a screenplay by Oscar Osage people were murdered in one of CHLOE MOYER winner Eric Roth. the most sinister crimes in American Graduate, May 2018 history that became one of the FBI’s Business Administration in Accounting In the midst of the success, Grann Major: first major homicide investigations. visited Northeastern State University Hometown: Idabel, Oklahoma The FBI team, which included one Dr. Mike Chanslor in February for the 2018 Larry Adair I grew up as the daughter of a small business owner. Working Dean of the College of Liberal Arts of the only Native Americans in the Lectureship to share his personal for him sparked my interest for accounting. I have a passion for bureau, eventually caught one of the Dr. Mike Chanslor served as insight on the book. business and law. I hope that with my BBA in accounting, as masterminds, but as Grann documents, the director of the American well as my juris doctorate from Oklahoma City University School The “Killers of the Flower Moon: The there was a deeper and darker of Law, I will be able to serve small business owners as well as Studies Master of Arts program CAMPUS conspiracy that the other citizens. and the interim chair of the bureau never exposed. Department of Languages and NSU’s newest place to Literature. He has taught undergraduate and Friends and family graduate classes in mass communication and of former Oklahoma grab a cup of coffee media studies, and he has served as assistant, Speaker of the House, There’s a new place to enjoy a cup of coffee at DENVER PINKSTON associate, and interim dean of the College of the Honorable Northeastern State University. River’s Edge Graduate, May 2018 Liberal Arts and as chair of the Department Larry Adair, and the Coffee Shop celebrated its official opening on the Major: Art and Marketing of Communication, Art & Theatre. In addition NSU Foundation Tahlequah campus with a ribbon cutting Feb. 8. to his roles at NSU, Chanslor has published 16 established the Larry Hometown: Beggs, Oklahoma research projects, written and presented over Adair Lectureship River’s Edge Coffee Shop’s regular hours will be I always had a passion for drawing when I was younger. 20 papers and participated in many professional Series in 2004 to Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and When I decided to study art as a major, I also wanted to be presentations and panels. He has also been create an annual forum Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The shop will able to market my paintings and abilities. So, it’s the best of involved in numerous other activities and has to engage students in offer Starbuck’s coffee, Tazo teas, sandwiches the creative side and the business side in a way. been a member on numerous committees. politics, government and soups. Wi-Fi is available for dining guests. and public policy. The design of the updated space was inspired by the environmental and native history that intertwines with NSU’s. Stop by and enjoy the outdoor seating area next time you’re on campus.

10 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 11 ET CETERA ON CAMPUS News Q&A Sunny Bennett ALUMNI Junior | Future Alumni Network Introducing NSU’s 2018 Centurions Hometown: Pryor Northeastern State University has named nine individuals as 2018 Centurions. Major: English Education

Dr. Reneé Cambiano is a 1989 alumna and Todd Mutzig, a 1991 alumnus, is an enthusiastic NSU faculty member, known for her down-to- supporter of both Tahlequah and NSU. He has been earth approach and keen grasp of academic instrumental in establishing the Tahlequah Main What drew you to Northeastern State University? What did expectations. She currently serves as the NSU Street Association and the “My Tahlequah” community you see here that made you feel this was the right choice? Faculty Council President. cleanup event. His business, Meigs Jewelry, has I have always enjoyed listening to my grandparents’ and donated emerald jewelry to NSU’s Emerald Ball each my parents’ stories about their college days at NSU. It made year since 1998. NSU a reminder of home, but also a symbol of my own Dr. Lynn Cyert is a longtime member of the NSU future. That made it feel like it was the right path for me. Dr. Lanny, a retired NSU faculty member, and College of Optometry who taught every graduating Are any family members NSU alumni? Did they shape doctor until her retirement in 2010. She served as Barbara Reed, 1967 and 1983 alumna, are great your decision to come to NSU? Both my grandparents chief of the Pediatric Clinic, interim dean of the supporters of the university. Lanny was infamous for College of Optometry, and has served on numerous what is known as the “bed of nails” teaching technique. on my mother’s side—Charles Welch and Bernadine university committees. He would choose a student to lie flat on a bed of nails Weaver-Welch—and my mom and dad—Scott Bennett and and push down to demonstrate a principle of the law of physics. Stephanie Welch-Bennett. They definitely helped to shape Barbara Fuller is an NSU faculty member of 16 my decision, not because they told me to go here, but Dr. John Yeutter, an NSU faculty member of 20-plus years. She has been instrumental in developing, because I could see that they had meaningful experiences years, is an ardent supporter of student athletes at managing and growing the Robotics Academy of home games and on the road. He has assisted hundreds here and I wanted that too. Critical Engagement program as well as the STEAM of NSU staff members and local Tahlequah residents (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) Outside of the Future Alumni Network, with what other with free income tax preparation services through the Maker Lab. activities and organizations are you involved? I am also Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. involved with the NSU Honors Program.

Chuck Hoskin is a 1982 and 1998 alumnus who has Favorite memories or experiences so far while at NSU? One Judy Ziehr is a community supporter of NSU. devoted himself to the betterment of the Cherokee of my favorite things to do is walk down to the student When Ziehr began work at BancFirst, she began her people and northeast Oklahoma. He has served six informal role as “everybody’s mom” with several NSU art gallery. I love art, and I think it is super inspiring to see terms as a state representative for District 6 and students she hired. In addition to providing counsel what other students on campus are creating. It’s always serves as chief of staff for the Cherokee Nation. and friendship, she and her husband, Dr. Chuck changing and the art always makes you think, and that Ziehr, helped with necessities, including food, gas makes it one of my favorite experiences on campus. money and car repairs. Many of these relationships continued after graduation. Any advice ​for future RiverHawks? I would tell future Dr. John Lowe was an NSU faculty member RiverHawks that their college experience doesn’t have who served the university as a professor, chair of to be perfect. You’re going to miss an assignment (or a the Social Science Division and dean of Student Affairs. Lowe provided calm, reasoned and wise few), things are going to come up that are frustrating and recommendations to his superiors during a period of stressful. And that’s okay—just take care of you and never significant student unrest and financial stress for the be afraid to ask for help. university. He retired in 1987 and passed away in 2013. In what ways do you think alumni can benefit current students? How would you like to be more involved with alumni? I think alumni can benefit students by being open and genuine in giving advice to students about their What does it mean to be named a Centurion? experiences and the life lessons they have had to learn. I think that is also how I would like to be more involved with A Northeastern State University Centurion is an individual whose leadership and commitment, in the course of helping others, has alumni. There is no such thing as too much good advice. I made a significant impact during the university’s history. The honors are given to NSU alumni, faculty, staff, students or any member love to learn, and I believe that alumni have a lot to offer of the NSU community—whether past or present—who impacted the life of the nominator, the Northeastern community or the in that area. public at large. A Centurion can be living or deceased and should embody the legacy and spirit of NSU. Since selecting 100 individuals as inaugural recipients of the Centurion Award during its Centennial Celebration in 2009, NSU has added up to 10 names to the Centurion list each year.

12 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 13 Alumni IN FOCUS

Dr. Harold Battenfiled '59, visits with Dr. Michael Kayser '96. Kayser was The staff at the NSU Office of Alumni and Development celebrate another successful year at the the 2018 Battenfield-Carletti Distinguished Entrepreneur Lecturer in April. conclusion of the President’s Circle luncheon, honoring those who have given philanthropic support to NSU. Pictured left to right:Daniel Johnson ’91 and ’18, Peggy Glenn ’90, Molly Turner ’14 and ’17, Robin Johnson ’80, Lani Hansen, student worker, Cami Highers ’05, and Trico Blue, student worker.

In Washington DC this spring, the President’s Leadership Class seniors take time to pose for a picture on their night tour of the White House Maurice Turney ‘48 and Jerry Cook ’72 and ’06 and other national monuments. celebrate giving to the NSU Foundation at the President’s Circle luncheon in April this year. Everyone enjoyed watching and playing at the student vs. alumni women’s soccer match that took place this spring. Even though the alumni took the win for the evening, fun was had by all. Glenn Coffee ’89 was the guest speaker at this year’s GreenLink Dinner, a networking event for students who are interested in learning from NSU alumni who are experienced professionals in their careers.

NSU Instructor Sarah Whittle excitedly waits for her signed book “Killers of the Flower Moon” by author and guest speaker Kristy Eubanks ’06 spoke with students at the David Grann. Larry Adair ’69 and ‘79, at the annual Larry Adair Lectureship series Alumni Association's GreenLink Dinner about her on Government and Leadership poses with this year’s speaker, author professional experiences. of “Killers of the Flower Moon” David Grann. Pictured above from left to right are:Larry Adair, Larry Adair Scholarship recipients Jorge Morales and Lauren Cole, author David Grann, scholarship recipient Rachel Hiatt and NSU President Steve Turner. The Dr. Tiffany Maher Legacy Award was given by the Northeastern Student Government Association to Associate Professor Dr. Shannon Bridgmon (second from right) for going above and beyond in her job and creating a legacy of excellence.

Shaun and Becky Shepherd and their family were inducted into the NSU Foundation’s Founders Society for their lifetime giving totaling over $10,000. Dr. Turner presented the family their award during the President’s Circle luncheon held on April 14, 2018.

If you have photos you would like to submit, Carrigan Bradley, a sophomore from Fort contact the Office of Alumni Services at Gibson, was crowned Miss NSU 2018 in 2010 Centurion Dr. Tom Cotrill ’65 November last year. She competed this Lani Hansen, a junior majoring in Media Studies, with her parents, 918-458-2143, e-mail: [email protected] or mail: 812 N. Cedar Ave., and ‘67 and 2011 Centurion C.H. summer in the Miss Oklahoma Pageant where Woody and Joyce Hansen, after performing songs in Cherokee at this 2018 Centurion Charles Hoskins ‘82, 2012 Centurion Dr. Billy Jo Davis and 2011 Tahlequah, OK 74464 Parker celebrating at the Centurion she won 2nd Runner-up and on night one she year’s President’s Circle luncheon. Centurion Dr. Brad Agnew at the Centurion luncheon on March 6, 2018. luncheon on March 6, 2018. won Overall Talent.

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STUDENT Leading the way NSU to expand President's Leadership Class

Beginning this fall, Northeastern State University will increase the number of President's Leadership Class scholarships awarded to incoming freshmen each year. The President's Leadership Class is a unique leadership and scholarship program designed to cultivate the outstanding potential of proven student leaders. Previously offered to about 15 incoming students STUDENT each fall, the President’s Leadership Class scholarship will be awarded to 20 incoming freshmen in the fall 2018 semester and NSU partners with TCSO for will increase to 25 over the next two years. The expansion will allow for more comprehensive degree completion program scholarship experience for student leaders. In the fall 2018 semester, incoming members of the Northeastern State University and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are President’s Leadership Class will receive more than teaming up to offer a flexible criminal justice degree completion program to $5,000 per semester for four years for housing, officers and staff. tuition and Foundation support. NSU President Steve Turner and Sheriff Vic Regalado formalized the COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE Applicants for the President’s Leadership Class agreement with a signing Feb. 12 at the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office. should display outstanding leadership capabilities NSU helps bring inclusive higher education to Oklahoma The criminal justice degree completion program is designed for individuals and must have an exceptionally strong academic who have completed an associate of science degree from Tulsa Community record. High school seniors are required to College is an experience some people take specialized session each College. Facilitated by the NSU College of Extended Learning, this program have an ACT composite score of 20 or higher for for granted, but it’s not always a guarantee. semester. They’ll also be placed in a time- consists of fast-track classes that combine online and classroom learning. consideration. Applications are available online Northeastern State University is hoping limited job sampling as The flexible format makes it possible for working students to complete the at www.scholarships.nsuok.edu. a new program will give more students— well as paid and unpaid requirements for a bachelor’s degree in as little as two years. specifically those with intellectual internships throughout and developmental disabilities— The bachelor’s degree in criminal justice provides a broad understanding of their four years with NSU. the criminal justice system, an overview of law and the American court system the opportunity to gain knowledge and various electives that range from forensics to criminal investigations. and enhance their capabilities in To develop the program, independent living, social skills, an initial donation of academics and career development. $85,000 was made by LLL. The organization NSU’s College of Extended Learning Now has committed additional Chancellor Glen Johnson, of has teamed up with Lead Learn Live, donations totaling the Oklahoma State System an Oklahoma nonprofit, to create the $225,000 over the next three school years of Higher Education, spoke to Offering RiverHawks Scholar Program, an inclusive to make the program sustainable. Northeastern State University four-year post-secondary certificate faculty and staff Feb. 20 about MBA program for students with intellectual The RiverHawks Scholar Program will the recommendations from and/or developmental disabilities that’s begin with the first cohort of students the Task Force on the Future of the first of its kind in Oklahoma. in August. The RiverHawks Scholar Online! Application Committee will review Higher Education in Oklahoma. Scholars will live on campus with other applications and will accept five qualified Johnson presented to an students, with a trained community applicants for the fall semester. audience on the Tahlequah advisor in close proximity. They’ll campus, and a live broadcast participate in campus activities, clubs For more information and an application was shown on the Muskogee and and organizations of their choice and will for the Scholar Program, please visit Broken Arrow campuses. be engaged in a physical fitness routine www.nsuok.edu/RHScholar. Go Grad! with a peer mentor. Participating students will take two traditional university classes and one www.nsuok.edu/GoGrad

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STUDENT Reach Higher helps working adults Working adults who never completed the college degree they once started can feel like it’s no longer an option; life is busy now and there’s no way to fit classes into their schedule. With a goal of decreasing the number of Oklahomans with unfinished college degrees, Northeastern State University’s Reach Higher program is focused on helping those working adults finish what they started. Giving Back Reach Higher is a flexible, online program designed for adult students who are already working full-time and have family obligations. RiverHawks make a difference in their communities Students who are at least 21 years old, have completed at least 72 hours of college credits, or have an approved associate degree with a minimum 2.0 GPA and who have SEQUOYAH FELLOW completed general education requirements can earn a bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership. Meet the 2018 Sequoyah Fellow: For more information on the program, visit www.nsuok.edu/reachhigher or contact Michelle Farris America Meredith at 918-444-5034.

America Meredith, a Cherokee Nation citizen, is the publishing editor of First American Art Magazine and is an author, artist and independent curator whose curatorial practice spans over two decades. She has been selected as Northeastern State University’s 2018 Sequoyah CHECK IT OUT! Fellow and will share her expertise with the campus community Giving back to the community is a Northeastern State University tradition. throughout the year. NSU professor Each year, events like Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and Big Event Meredith earned her Master of Fine Arts from San Francisco Art encourage students, staff and faculty to team up to make a difference Institute and has taught art history and the Cherokee humanities course releases second book at the Institute of American Indian Arts, Santa Fe Community College. through service projects. Northeastern State University Professor of Anthropology Dr. Meredith serves on the board of the Wheelwright Museum and the Benjamin Kracht has published his second book, “Religious Cherokee Arts and Humanities Council. Revitalization Among the Kiowas: The Ghost Dance, Peyote and Christianity.” RiverHawks don’t wait for these organized events to give back, though. This book is an examination of how indigenous Kiowa Many of the NSU family find ways to serve the community year-round. What is a Sequoyah Fellow? beliefs were combined with new religions that came to the Kiowas toward the end of the 19th The Sequoyah Fellow program provides an opportunity for the century, as well as how Natives university and College of Liberal Arts to recognize an outstanding and non-Natives reacted to the scholar in the field of Native American Studies. Sequoyah Fellows are Here are a few of their stories: new religions. Kracht says the nationally and internationally renowned, have interest in scholarship book shows the resilience of Kiowa and service to Native communities, and have records of distinction at peoples who continued to reinvent the highest levels of professional accomplishment in their fields. traditions during a dark period of Wilma Mankiller, former Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, cultural genocide. served as the inaugural Sequoyah Fellow. Additional Sequoyah Kracht is also the author of “Kiowa Institute Fellows include Jeff Corntassel (2017), Stacy Leeds (2016) and Belief and Ritual.” Both books are Neil Morton (2015). available through the University of Nebraska Press.

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Carrigan Bradley, a Fort Gibson She says it’s a personal platform that she around the world caused me to doubt native, is a junior majoring in has been developing since she began her myself and my ability to sing—a craft I marketing. She competed in the performing career. had been working at since the age of four.” Miss Northeastern Scholarship “When you're in the public eye you are Although there was a large amount of Pageant and was crowned as the 2018 opening yourself up to a load of scrutiny,” negativity, Bradley said she found a flood Miss Northeastern. Bradley said. “Since social media has of kindness and light from the people Bradley believes giving back is the become such a major aspect of our day-to- closest to her. greatest lesson she has learned as a part day lives, our young people and adults are “If not for the positivity and words of life of the Miss Oklahoma organization. dealing with other's opinions more often "...I could walk that were poured into me, I am not sure than they normally would.” “Service is one of the four pillars that I would have continued singing. Thus, into any store our organization is built on; it is about Bradley believes words have a large these experiences generated the idea with Liberty and forgetting yourself and fully immersing impact on lives and because of the of the need to outpour kindness into yourself in the needs of others,” she said. growing convenience of sharing words everyday life, the classroom and people’s days Bradley uses her Miss Northeastern and thoughts through social media, the community.” instantly get Words Have P.O.W.E.R. platform as a people can forget how hurtful they can be. better and they chance to give back to the community. “Words Have P.O.W.E.R. is a way for me "The more people I as a titleholder to call all get smiles on attention to the problem have the chance to their faces." and make us more share my story and aware, advocating for the powerful, optimistic, kindness with, the wise, encouraging and more likely I get to responsible use of our words.” make a small impact Bradley said the idea in someone’s life." for her platform came from her own struggle to deal with caustic words. Bradley now looks for every opportunity When Bradley was 15, she can to share her platform and she auditioned for the TV positivity, including social media. She show “X-Factor.” There, continues to reach out and educate the she performed in front social media community about the power of celebrity judges Demi in words. Lovato, Kelly Rowland, “The more people I have the chance to Paulina Rubio and share my story and kindness with, the Simon Cowell. more likely I get to make a small impact in Mackenzie Oestreich, of “I was just along for the ride until I later people’s days instantly get better and they someone’s life,” she said. “Simon cut me off mid- Owasso, is a sophomore noticed I loved training service dogs.” all get smiles on their faces. My second song and said, ‘You trying “I believe that kindness is a snowball majoring in physics. For her, She explained that dogs come to her for favorite part is seeing Liberty fulfill her to sing is like trying to effect. You do one kind thing for someone giving back comes in the form of training as puppies and are usually fully purpose as a service dog. I have now had to chop down a tree with a and it motivates another act. If I'm able fur and four paws. trained by 2 years old. In this time, a trainer give Liberty to her forever home with a lady banana.’ In that moment, to change one person's mind about using Oestreich has trained dogs with Therapetics will expose the service dog to all sorts in a wheelchair. I love being able to see how I mentally shut down their words in a responsible way then I Service Dogs of Oklahoma for just over two of situations including, in this case, the much her owner loves her. She calls Liberty and started doubting am more likely to reach more people with years. Therapetics is a non-profit located in NSU campus. The university community her best friend and that’s really so inspiring myself. I allowed Simon my message. Words Have P.O.W.E.R., even Tulsa that is working to enhance the lives of has been lucky enough to enjoy Liberty, to me.” to cloud my confidence when we think they don't.” individuals living with disabilities. Oestreich’s last service dog. Oestreich reassures our campus community with a simple statement,” that the fun of seeing a service dog around Bradley said. “That “Our organization trains two types of service Oestreich has two favorite things about NSU is not over yet. experience allowed me dogs: post-traumatic stress disorder and training service dogs: the impact on people to understand how much mobility,” she said. “The organization mainly and seeing a service dog fulfill its purpose. “Golden retriever number two is on the way." gives the service dogs to disabled veterans weight words carry. The “My first favorite part of being a trainer is and other citizens with difficulties.” adverse criticism that I seeing the impact the service dogs make on heard from Simon, my Oestreich got involved with Therapetics people’s lives daily,” she said. “For instance, peers and on social media through her younger sister, Savannah. I could walk into any store with Liberty and

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Dr. Joseph Shetler, clinic chief at NSU Oklahoma College of Optometry and associate professor of optometry, gives back both locally and internationally. Funding He says that giving back is a reflection of who you are and what your priorities in life are. “When we use the term giving back, it means we are repaying a debt for something that someone has given to us,” Shetler said. “There is no question in my life that there have been times when people have stepped up to Education help me, and I owe a debt of gratitude, and can pay that back by pouring into the lives of others.” He serves the local community as an officer in the local Lions Club. “The Lions International motto is ‘We Serve.’ Along with my fellow Lions, we strive to serve the community by adopting a city park that we care for,” he said. “We also strive to raise money to provide eye care for those who may not have access to eye care due to financial barriers.” For Shetler, he does not just practice optometry, it is part of who he is. He serves his profession as a member of the board of the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians where he is able to provide care to those who may not have access to optometric care internationally and locally. “I have had the opportunity to serve with fellow optometrists in Ecuador, Mexico and Honduras,” Shetler said. “I have had the unique opportunity to volunteer and provide eye care at Special Olympics, working with "So often when we think an excellent team of volunteers.” of volunteering or Giving back also goes beyond profession for Shetler and giving back we leap to his wife, Karen. In the Nebraska community they lived in before Tahlequah, Shetler served as a baseball coach and a corporate program, president of a local baseball and softball organization. such as Lion's Club, He and his wife also stepped up to lead spiritual development classes. organized clubs such “So often when we think of volunteering or giving back as baseball or soccer, we leap to a corporate program, such as Lion's Club, but what we do on a organized clubs such as baseball or soccer, but what we do on a personal level speaks volumes as well,” he said. personal level speaks Shetler’s parents and his upbringing play huge roles in volumes as well." his volunteer efforts and serving others. “My parents worked hard at instilling into myself and my three brothers, that the world is not about me, or created for me,” he said. “We have all been given a set of skills and resources. SNAG Golf tournament, Antons How would our world change if we recognized those resources and skills were not given to us for our own betterment, but the betterment of those we come in invest in education, students contact with each day.”

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said. “The scholarship is given each semester. Students apply for the scholarship by writing a paper about how they would use the coaching kit to improve their community.” Scholarship recipients receive a coaching kit, which includes enough equipment to teach 48 children, about a $3,000 value. That scholarship inspired the couple to find more ways to help the community. “Vanessa and I were talking and got the great idea to use SNAG About the Antons tournaments to raise money for education,” Terry added. “Charities use golf every year to the tune of raising three Terry Anton is a University of Florida alumnus. He billion dollars for their causes. Why couldn’t we do that here?” majored in economics. He played in his first PGA Tour event in his junior year of high school in 1973, and then Terry and Vanessa purchased property in the Burnt Cabin again in 1974. At that time, he was the youngest to have area of Lake Tenkiller. Using his experience from running a qualified for the PGA Tour. He held the title of youngest to design construction and operations golf company, he designed qualify for 22 years. a six-hole SNAG golf course on the property. Dr. Vanessa Anton is an NSU alumna. She received her In the design of the course, Terry said he took a few pages bachelor’s degree in business education with a special from Walt Disney. He wanted the course to be fun and filled endorsement in health and human performance. She with lifelike figures. received her master’s in college teaching from NSU and “We had a seven foot Sasquatch that people would pose then received a doctorate from the University of Arkansas around at the last tee, but I didn’t feel it was enough,” he said. in kinesiology. “I commissioned a local chainsaw artist to build a father/son Unlike her husband, who played golf professionally, figure of Harry and Reggie. Harry is 13 feet two inches tall. Vanessa learned to play golf by playing SNAG. Harry’s son is eight feet tall. Now when people stand next to them for the photos, I am getting the effect I wanted. I wanted The giving didn’t stop at scholarships for the Antons. ust a little creative thinking, the right not just about the golf, it’s about critical people to look two years old next to them.” In 2013, at the inception of the College of Education’s people and a strong goal to educate thinking skills, too,” Vanessa said. “The Robotics Academy for Critical Engagement (RACE), can spark a product, a program and curriculum comes with the equipment and He added to the fun experience by building a PGA Tour styled Terry and Vanessa donated money to help start the scholarships to help students achieve is interdisciplinary. In addition to motor last hole. There are bleachers around the last green, filled with program. The RACE program recently won the American Jtheir dreams. Terry Anton, president and skills, movement concepts, manipulative specially designed mannequins. Under the bleachers, there Association of Colleges for Teacher Education’s 2018 CEO of SNAG and Dr. Vanessa Anton, skills, and body management skills, it are speakers that play the sounds of crowds cheering at a PGA AACTE Best Practice Award for the Innovative Use of interim dean of the Northeastern State teaches a variety of other skills, such as tour event. Technology. math and geography.” University College of Education, began the “I wanted the average person to know what it felt like to play Each SNAG Scholarship Tournament begins with a adventure to bring SNAG to the Tahlequah The physical and educational aspects of on the fairways in front of a crowd,” Terry said. “We wanted it ceremonial putt from a robot that the NSU Robotics team, area 12 years ago. SNAG made it a hit in the classrooms. to be a unique experience.” the RoboHawks, designed specifically for the first tee. Terry began the Starting New at Golf SNAG is now in over 10,000 schools, over After building the course, the Antons began to host their business in 2001, and debuted the 5,000 golf courses and in 42 countries, unique tournaments. The course and equipment are programming at the PGA show in Orlando, according to Terry. donated, and volunteers from the College of Education FL. According to Reed Exhibition, for faculty and staff provide the food and work at the the three days of the show, SNAG was the “We are the global leader in entry-level golf tournament. Because of the donations, 100 percent most visited booth. This reception greatly instruction and programming.” of the tournament proceeds are donated to the NSU exceeded the company’s expectations. SNAG came to NSU through a chance Foundation for the SNAG Scholarship. “SNAG is what they call a disruptive meeting at a physical education conference. Since the first tournament in 2013, the tournaments innovation,” Terry said. “We took Terry and his team were looking to take have raised over $50,000, allowing the scholarship to conventional thinking and threw it out SNAG to the university level. After working become endowed. the window and came up with this whole with Vanessa the two began to date, and “We were able to give our first scholarships last year,” concept. It wasn’t just equipment, it was the one thing led to another. Terry moved from Vanessa said. “Two undergraduate scholarships and programming that went with it. We did six Tampa to Tahlequah to be with her. Once one graduate.” years of research, trial and error, and built here, Terry began to ask himself what he specialized equipment and training tools could do for his new community. The Antons have proven they are invested in the future that made it much easier to learn how to The first scholarship SNAG and the Antons of education. play golf.” created at NSU was a gift of equipment that “From my perspective, I’m invested in the future of Through collaboration with education began in 2009. these students,” Terry said. “It’s exposing them to the professionals SNAG developed curriculum “We started with a scholarship for health right things for the future. That’s what investing in to use while learning to play golf. “It’s and physical education majors,” Vanessa education means to me.”

24 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 25 Roll Call Wade Bennett and Sheril Thomas’s family All in members who graduated from NSU include:

Aida Bennett June Bennett theSiblings share how NSU has been a part offamily their family since the early 1900s. Kathy Bennett Ladonna Bennett “It started with Gogi,” “It was just the college you went to, because that’s where everyone in the area attended college and Pam Bennett said Wade Bennett’s sister, Sheril Thomas. Lucy where their parents and their grandparents went to Markham, known by the family as Gogi, graduated Sandra Bennett college,” Thomas said. from the Cherokee Female Seminary in 1902. She was the first of Thomas’s family members to graduate “That was just kind of the natural path,” Bennett said Wade Bennett from what is now Northeastern State University. in agreement. “If you were in Locust Grove, that’s Beatrice Hoxie most likely where you were going.” Today, Thomas’s family includes at least 19 family members—including grandparents, aunts, cousins, In addition to the family history that can be traced Craig Hoxie parents and siblings—who have attended NSU since then. back generations, Bennett and Thomas said they also Marquita Neel Jackson enjoyed experiencing NSU at the same time as other As Thomas and Bennett, one of her six siblings, members of their family. Siblings Wade Bennett and Sheril Thomas retrace the family members who have graduated from Joanie Knipper show off the diploma of Lucy (Gogi) Northeastern State University, their list is woven with Bennett said his earliest NSU memories are watching Markham. Markham graduated from the Carl Markham stories and jokes about relative’s experiences on the football games with his mom, who went back to Tahlequah campus. school after she had six kids. Cherokee Female Seminary in 1902 and Charlotte Markham Carstairs was the first member of their family to “Martha [Markham] referred to NSU as Blackberry “During the summer, she would go to school,” he graduate from what eventually became Fortner Markham U, because she would come home on the weekends, said. “We didn’t have any babysitters, so my younger Northeastern State University. The family and they would pick blackberries,” Bennett said. “She brother and I would just go down there to the campus. Gogi Markham, 1902 now has 23 family members who have would take blackberries back for Monday through We would go to the U.C. [University Center], do a Friday, and that’s what got her through the week.” little bowling, shoot a little pool and play some video graduated from the university. Jeanne Markham Wallace games. We were on campus all the time.” The siblings listed a few more family members who Martha Markham attended NSU, and Thomas recalled stories of a Because he had spent so much time on campus, relative who lived in tents on campus during World Bennett said NSU was already familiar by the time he Talara Markham War II. sat down for the first day of class his freshman year. Fern McFarland Their family connection to NSU is obvious, but Thomas remembers taking classes with her sister, Robert Stinson Thomas and Bennett said their NSU family history and meeting up with her sister, mom and aunt for isn’t unique. They both knew a lot of other students lunch. She said she enjoyed having the familiar faces Sheril Thomas who had similar connections. According to them, on campus. Rebecca Wallace many families from their hometown of Locust Grove “We studied together,” she said. “We were in the same have been attending the university for generations. classes. We had the same lunch breaks.” Robin Wallace Adding to their family’s NSU story as students, and now as alumni with successful careers, the siblings continue to make new memories—nowadays as members of the NSU Alumni Association where they especially enjoy attending alumni events—as a family.

26 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 27 Alumni CLASS NOTES

Pat Dodson '92 is the superintendent Jacqueline Novotny '03 was named Chris Gallegos '12 was named a Tulsa Hansen Johnson '17 was named as- George Jessee '61, of Jenks, passed ‘ s Caren Hurlbut '98 and '99, of Coweta, Births away December 12, 2017. 80 passed away February 2, 2018. for Grove Public Schools. Jenks Public Schools West Police Officer. sistant choir director at Broken Arrow Lena Kimble '80, of Bunch, passed Elementary Teacher of the Year. High School. April Graney '93 published a book Henry Wildenborg '13 is a ‘ *Ruth Ann Stockton '63, of Tahle- away December 18, 2017. 00s quah, passed away February 17, 2018. titled “The Marvelous Mud House: A *Elizabeth Anderson '03 and '06 is Certified Public Accountant. Madison Dobbs '17 is the event rela- Betty Guthrie '81 and '86, of Park Hill, ‘ Story of Finding Fullness and Joy.” with Northwest Arkansas Children's tions coordinator for the Cox Business Monroe Hilton Renfro, son of Gabe 00s Megan Edmonds '13 is working for Lucy Allen '63, of Tulsa, passed away passed away January 22, 2018. Shelter. Center. '03 and Gini (Warner) '07 Renfro, November 30, 2017. Season Jane Reed '01, of Muskogee, Charla Martin '93 has a new position the Oklahoma State University Alum- was born on March 27, 2018. Uiva Tubbs '81, of Tahlequah, passed passed away April 13, 2018. in human resources at Ducommun. Summer Conner Kirkland '05 is the ni Association. Baylee Price '17 is a Realtor at James Davis '63, of Morris, passed away October 1, 2017. market vice president at Capital One. Chinowth & Cohen Realtors. Miriam Ryan Hicks, daughter of away January 1, 2018. Kendra Johnson '03, of Tahlequah, R. Mitch Randall '93 was named Jacqueline Watson '13 is a proposal Robert and *Kylé (Thornton) '05 and Mae Bell Gates '81, of Tulsa, passed passed away on January 10, 2018. executive director of Baptist Center Bobbie Back '07 was named a math development specialist at NSU. '08 Hicks, was born on November 10, Ralph Burton 63, of Tulsa, passed away December 1, 2017. for Ethics. instructor for Northeast Technology Kelli Cackler '13 is a planning analyst 2017. away February 15, 2018. Theresa Walker '04, of Oktaha, Center. Michael Keen '81, of Tahlequah, passed away January 19, 2018. Keith Boshers '94 is the town at Ingredion Incorporated. Blakeley Anne Greer Murray, daugh- Kenneth Bruno '64 and '69, of passed away February 7, 2018. administrator for the City of Vian. Emily Stewart '08 and '11 was named Weddings Heather Lipe '14 and '17 was named ter of Kyle '08 and Keisha (Kruze) '05 Bartlesville, passed away December Donna Shockley '07, of Tahlequah, Jenks Public School Freshman Victor Moses '82, of Talihina, passed Amy Fichtner '96 was named super- Wagoner Middle School Teacher of Murray, was born on October 17, 2017. 3, 2017. passed away March 13, 2018. Academy Teacher of the Year. away March 2, 2018. intendent of Owasso Public Schools. the Year. ‘ 00s Abigayle Lova Painter, daughter of Sharon Woolery '64, of Tulsa, passed *Darrin Priest '09 and '14 is the Lynne Moyers '82, of Tulsa, passed Ronia Davison '96 and '09 was named Chelsea VanVaolkinburg '14 is a and David and Annie (King) '05 Painter, away November 25, 2017. residence life coordinator for the Matthew Benn '10 Jennifer away December 5, 2017. ‘ a 2018 recipient for the Oklahoma residential real estate sales agent at Fanning '07 were married on April was born on February 28, 2018. s University of Tulsa. *Chuck Brookshire '65 and '92, of 10 Medal for Excellence Awards Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices 13, 2018. Elliott McConnell, son ofChris '06 Fayetteville, Arkansas, passed away on Helen Robins '83 and '86, of Fort Lance Toineeta '13, of Cedar Rapids, Gibson, passed away April 11, 2018. honoring outstanding educators in Josh Blankenship '09 was named Anderson Properties. and Kacey McConnell, was born on October 6, 2017. Iowa, passed away January 20, 2018. Oklahoma's public schools by the Adams State University head football Brooke Allison '15 is a realtor at October 29, 2017. Gary Price '84, of Muskogee, passed Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence. coach. ‘ Linda Bockuis '65 and '81, of Musk- Tony Zarbano '14, of Glenpool, Allison and Associates. 10s ogee, passed away November 18, 2017. away January 15, 2018. passed away December 2, 2017. Arrow Faith Adams, daughter of James Denver Herren '97 as the Ryan Sedal Jones '14 and Darah Shawn Long '15 is working at Davey and Molly (Cowan) '06 Adams, John Wright '84, of Broken Arrow, newest charge d'affaires for the United ‘ Esther Martin were married on Donna Ausmus '66, of Muskogee, Taylor Postak '15, of Tulsa, passed s Stephenson Cancer Center. was born on January 11, 2018. passed away February 10, 2018. States Embassy in Nassau. 10 February 24, 2018. passed away January 5, 2018. away April 10, 2018. Desiree (Neal) Booker '10 was named Gage DeLozier '15 was named a Tulsa West and Hazel Elliott, twins ofBrian Wilma Hotten '86, of Eufaula, passed Donnia Potter '99 and '16 is an Coweta head softball coach. Lester Eugene Gwin '68, of Tulsa, Police Officer. '07 and Alysia (Largent) '12 Elliott, away December 28, 2017. educator and assistant administrator passed away April 3, 2018. Emilee (Dutton) Bristol '10 was were born on September 26, 2017. for Moseley Schools. Kelly Kitt '16 is a business develop- Linda Daniels '87, of Morris, passed named the 2018 Collinsville Upper Milestones ment manager at EASi Engineering. Margaret Bisogno, daughter of Lisa away March 15, 2018. Crystal Vann Wallstrom '99 has been Elementary Teacher of the Year. ‘ and Alec Bisogno '08, was born on named managing director of Sarah Tilley '16 is a technical staffing 70s Mary Bennett '87, of Locust Grove, Justen Hulsey '10 is with KKT August 15, 2017. ‘ innovation at Electric Works. recruiter for TEKsystems. Mike Fine '70, of Bixby, passed away passed away January 19, 2018. 40s Architects, Inc. in their Construction Administration Department. December 12, 2017. Suzanne (Bryd) Moore '87 and '00, *Maurice Turney '48 received the Dakota Moran '16 is a university representative for the recruitment ‘ of Tulsa, passed away December 20, Mary Carlile Lifetime Achievement ‘ Michael Branscum '10 has joined the 10 s Julia Ann Lee '71 and '89, of Tahlequah, s office at NSU. 2017. Award from Northeastern Health 00 Catholic Charities of Central Liam Marshall, son of Paul '10 and passed away February 14, 2018. Josh King '01 was appointed to serve Systems. Colorado as director of income and Brian Manley '16 is the administrative Melissa (Nelson) '08 Marshall, was Marva (Spears) Mitchell '87, of Coweta, as first assistant district attorney for Guy Logsdon '71, of Broken Arrow, relief services. assistant for University Relations at born on December 12, 2017. passed away November 21, 2017. District 27, comprised of Adair, passed away February 5, 2018. ‘ NSU. s Cherokee, Sequoyah and Wagoner Brian Hail '11 was named a fellow of Janet Wiley '87, of Okmulgee, passed 50 *Richard Newberry, Jr. '73 and '77, Counties. the American College of Healthcare away March 15, 2018. *David Reid '50 has a new position at Steffon Herd '16 is a member of the of Porter, passed away December 28, Executives, an honor that has been British Columbia Lions of the Virginia General Assembly. Adria (Lynch) Goins '02 and '04 was 2017. Sallye Geyer '88, of Tulsa, passed awarded to less than 10,000 health Canadian Football League after sign- named NW Louisiana Young Memoriam away March 18, 2018. care executives around the world. ing as a free agent. David Schachle '75 and '78, of Beggs, ‘ Professionals 40 under 40. passed away December 24, 2017. 70s Courtney Anderson '11 is a Michelle Townsley '16 was awarded ‘ Sheila Williams '02 is the director 40s *Drake Rice '70 was inducted into the behavioral health professional at the Will Rogers Middle School *Kenneth Ballew '76, of Muskogee, ‘ of student services at Green Country s Oklahoma Hall of Fame for City and Grand Lake Mental Health. Teacher of the Year. *Mary Munson '44, of Oklahoma City, passed away February 9, 2018. 90 Technology Center. Anita Conner '90, of Muskogee, Town Officials, formed to recognize passed away February 13, 2018. Lance Williams '12 is a private wealth Tierney Edwards '17 is a customer Slayton Durrett '76, of Muskogee, passed away February 6, 2018. individuals for outstanding achieve- David Tillotson '02 is the city manag- associate at Bank of Oklahoma. experience enthusiast at Regions Mary Chase '46, of Tahlequah, passed passed away December 19, 2017. ments to city and town government. er at City of Glenpool. Dawn Holt '93, of Broken Arrow, Bank. away March 9, 2018. Jared Rusk '12 is an account manager Sharon Reed '76, of Tulsa, passed passed away February 18, 2018. Dwight Birdwell '72 was inducted Melissa Parton '02 is an executive *Denotes Life Members of the Alumni Association at England Logistics. away December 23, 2017. into the Oklahoma Military Hall of assistant at Union Public Schools. ‘ Belinda McCormick '71, of Sapulpa, Fame. 50s Marlene Sheets '78, of Independence, passed away March 20, 2018. Kansas, passed away November 25, George Wayne Rackleff '50, of 2017. Bart Skipper '96, of Westville, passed ‘ Broken Arrow, passed away October away March 5, 2018. 80s 22, 2017. Clarence McClain '78, of Wagoner, Gary Hendrix '80 and '84 was named passed away December 10, 2017. Esta Hadley '96, of Owasso, passed the boys basketball coach at Canadian Gary Lamons '52, of Tahlequah, away January 22, 2018. Public Schools. passed away November 23, 2017. Valeta Birdcreek '78, of Tulsa, passed away April 6, 2018. Brett Young '97, of Cushing, passed Tina Windle '86 was awarded the Edna Bruce '56, of Muskogee, passed away February 24, 2018. Wilson Elementary Teacher of the Year. away February 15, 2018. Jerry Rowe '79, of Hulbert, passed away January 25, 2018. *Jeanette Maxfield '56, of Muncie, ‘ Indiana, passed away December 18, Felicia Hare '79, of Pryor, passed away 90s 2017. November 11, 2017. Brandon Gilliland '92 was named vice president and chief financial Terry Majors '79, of Muskogee, *Gerald Baline Smith '57, of Tulsa, officer at the University of Miami. passed away March 22, 2018. passed away December 30, 2017. Email *Tamara Brassfield '90 is a finance Fantley Killebrew, Jr. '79, of Muskogee, [email protected] specialist for the Cherokee Nation. ‘ passed away February 26, 2018. s to add your news Michael Peters '92 was named the 60 Walter Smith '79, of Tulsa, passed Tahlequah District Teacher of the Year. Boyd Hogner '60 and '64, of Tahlequah, away December 21, 2017. to Class Notes. passed away February 11, 2018.

28 | Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 Imprints SPRING/SUMMER 2018 | 29 SPORTS

FOOTBALL TENNIS McKnight Jr. joins Ravens camp NSU Tennis reaches RiverHawks wide receiver NCAA Elite Eight All-MIAA Gary McKnight Jr. has Gritty singles performances under RiverHawks (Spring) joined the Baltimore extreme heat advanced No. 7 Ravens after receiving Northeastern State into the NCAA Elite

a rookie minicamp Eight for the first time since 2004 with WOMEN’S GOLF invitation by the a 5-1 win over No. 39 Indiana (Pa.) in Ebba Moberg – 1st Team organization. Surprise, Arizona. Kelsey Lumpkin – 2nd Team Sumie Francois – Honorable Mention The recent Northeastern Temperatures at the NCAA women's tennis championships reached 104 State University graduate with on-court highs

is coming off a season where reaching above SOFTBALL he was second in the MIAA 120 for student- Jess Schuler – 1st Team in reception yards (1,029), and caught 11 touchdown athletes. Gail Young – Honorable Mention passes. In the postseason, McKnight Jr. was named The RiverHawks, Kyla Ibarra – Honorable Mention All-MIAA Second Team, and was placed as an All- much like the Paige Gann – Honorable Mention American (Honorable Mention) by the Don Hansen weather, got off Kaleigh Hinkle – Honorable Mention Football Committee. to a blazing start Kelsey Harmon – Honorable Mention with its two and Haley Acrey – Honorable Mention The native of Lawton, Oklahoma was 19th in the three doubles teams nation in total yardage and seventh with 21.89 yards winning 8-1. On the main court, Mayra Jessica Boone – Honorable Mention per reception as a senior. Jovic and Karla Tomaic went into a drag- Sierra Crick – Honorable Mention on match but they came up short, 9-8 In two seasons at Northeastern State, McKnight Jr. (8-5) in a tiebreaker. quickly found himself in the program record books WOMEN’S TENNIS FOOTBALL Despite the loss on their top-doubles with 1,846 reception yards, which is third highest in Tatjana Stoll – 1st Team spot, Northeastern State took its first the NCAA Division II era. lead in 14 years in the Round of 16. Mayra Jovic – 1st Team Celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 1958 Football Betka Gombarova – 1st Team In singles play, the lower-ranked Karla Tomaic – 1st Team National Championship during homecoming GOLF Crimson Hawks worked the RiverHawks over with four courts going into a third Molly Worden – 2nd Team As a sports fan, anniversary teams have always had a special Both the breakfast and the football game have a nominal RiverHawks three-peat in Women’s Golf set. Molly Worden was off the court first Chantal Nosievici – 2nd Team for NSU taking a 6-4, 6-2 win on court Easton Parker – 2nd Team meaning to me. However, when an anniversary team is part admission fee. Additional details will be included in the Northeastern State won its third consecutive MIAA three. of a national championship—that raises my excitement homecoming materials in the coming months. Women's Golf Championship in thrilling fashion under rainy conditions in Kansas City. Nearly 45 minutes would pass until level. While planning this event with Bob Roberts (1958) the Please join me in honoring and celebrating this another court fell Northeastern State's BASEBALL past several months, I know paying homage to this team is historical accomplishment. NSU junior Ebba Moberg brought home the team title by way. At that point, the RiverHawks were Ben Strahm – Honorable Mention something you will not want to miss. parring on the final three holes to hold off Lindenwood by split on sets, leaving the door open for Dustin Berrong – Honorable Mention I look forward to seeing you on our beautiful campus this one stroke with a 957 (319-317-321). Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Tristan Ridenour – Honorable Mention Members of the 1958 team, or designated family members, coming fall. will be honored with a commemorative gift during the Moberg finished runner up with a 226 (78-79-76) and was Freshman Chantal Nosievici was the Jaxon Phipps – Honorable Mention Sincerely, named All-Tournament along with teammate Lexi Armon lone exception, and battled from behind Erick Espinosa – Honorable Mention Athletics Breakfast at 8 a.m. on homecoming Saturday. to take a 7-6 tiebreaker in the first Tony Duckworth who placed fifth, scoring a 238 (79-83-76). Michael Rhea – Honorable Mention The team will also be recognized for this outstanding set. The tiebreaker would prove to be The conference title is the eighth for Northeastern State – Honorable Mention accomplishment during homecoming, which will kick-off at 1 Director of Athletics important later in the match. Zack Henderson under the guidance of Head Coach Scott Varner. p.m. on Sept. 29 at Doc Wadley Stadium. In a seesaw battle on court-six, Tomaic In the postseason, Moberg was later named All-MIAA First rallied to win in three sets 6-1, 2-6, 6-3 to Team for the third consecutive season, and Sumie Francois push NSU to its match point. was honored as the league’s Freshman of the Year. Quietly, Nosievici was nearing the Help grow the NSUAA match win on court four and won her second 7-6 tiebreaker to advance the The Department of Athletics needs your help Donors can mail a check made payable to RiverHawks into the Elite Eight. positively impacting the NCAA Division II student- NSUAA-Foundation to NSU Athletics, 603 N. The RiverHawks have advanced four athletes at NSU. Be part of the Northeastern State Grand Avenue, Tahlequah, OK 74464, OR by times in its program's history (1999, University Athletics Association by making a $100 visiting goriverhawksgo.com and selecting 2003, 2004) but have not made it donation today. RiverHawks Athletics is seeking “SUPPORT” then “Support #TeamNSU” to pay by further. Additionally, the win over IUP 100 new members during 2018-2019. Athletics and credit card. moved Northeastern State to its 15th 20- win season since 1997. our student-athletes thank those who are already Unless the donor designates a specific sport, generously supporting NSU Athletics annually. NSUAA funds will go to the general athletics fund.

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