LIKE NO OTHER CONNECTION A Publication of for the Alumni In this issue: Winter 2016 Pg. Pg. Pg. New Pg. Pg. Bronze Star Dark Carnival Homecoming The House That Giving Society Winner Grows Up Close Trash Built 3 6 9 Launches 14 18

Happy Holidays from Lindenwood University! PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

LINDENWOOD’S IMPACT AROUND THE WORLD

We are all justifiably proud of this grand institution. In this issue, Shelly Daly, who teaches international business in our Robert W. you’ll see stories about another great Homecoming, our annual Plaster School of Business & Entrepreneurship, will teach at Royal Family Day, our new alumni effort in Kansas City, and our athletics University of Bhutan as a Fulbright scholar in the spring semester. on both campuses, including the largest class of inductees into The first business professor ever placed in Bhutan in the our Sports Hall of Fame since its creation in 2007. We are Fulbright program, she will bring her expertise to the students there also launching a new giving society, the President’s Circle, which and will bring back some new perspectives for her students here. you can read about in this issue. Finally, Monica Leblanc (’16) is working in Tanzania as a program What struck me most when looking through this edition is the impact officer for a nonprofit school for girls. From Costa Rica, Leblanc our alumni and faculty are having close to home and around the says her time as an international relations and nonprofit world. Katherine Schack (’03, ’07), one of our fine teaching alumni, management major with a minor in gender studies inspired her won a Presidential Education Award for Excellence in Mathematics to travel the world and work to improve women’s lives. and Science Teaching for her work in the Wentzville School District. It’s the highest award science and math teachers can receive. I can’t help but be inspired by these stories and many others about the fine work our students, alumni, faculty, and staff are First Lieutenant Alexander Larson (’14), serving with the U.S. doing to make things better in communities around the world. Army in Afghanistan, was recently awarded a Bronze Star for his I hope you and your loved ones have a happy and blessed holiday efforts there. A platoon leader, Larson has been working season “like no other.” Please keep in touch. with Afghan police chiefs and NATO forces in Kabul to help them coordinate their work in the city.

MICHAEL D. SHONROCK, Ph.D. President, Lindenwood University System

CONNECTION Values-centered liberal arts education–preparing students for life

COPY EDITORS, WRITERS, AND OFFICE OF EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHERS DEVELOPMENT ...... Scott Queen Christopher Duggan Chuck McPherson Dan Grigg Jennifer Ferguson Kassandra Linzmeier (’99, ’07) (’00, ’12) Vice President for Director of Alumni Associate Ben Mizera Development & Relations and Development Officer Stephanie Dulaney Alumni Relations Special Events, (’11) Lennon Mueller Belleville La’Ree Rothmiller- Kate O’Neal Johnson Daniel Newton (’09) Jennifer Ferguson (’07, ’08) Stefani Maudlin Development Development Officer Coordinator Rachel Johnson Scott Wuerz (’07) Assistant Vice President for (’04, ’10) Phil Vida Development & Nathan Payne Bryan Stone (’16) Alumni Relations Director of Development Brian Vorce Development Coordinator Michelle Giessman Don Adams Jr. (’16) Mark Bohr April Kernan Director of Director of Administrative Alumni Relations Development Assistant for Development Mary Reuter Director of John Creer Development Consultant

CONNECTION is published by the offices of Marketing and Communications and Development at Lindenwood University. Connection is mailed free of charge to Lindenwood alumni. Story ideas are welcome and should be forwarded to Director of Alumni Relations, Lindenwood University, 209 South Kingshighway, St. Charles, MO 63301 or via email at [email protected].

CHANGE OF ADDRESS notifications should be sent to the Office of Alumni Relations at the address above. The Alumni Office telephone number is 636.949.4975. Lindenwood University ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Army 1st. Lt. Alexander Larson (right) speaks with Lindenwood adjunct instructor Paul Corbin (left) while visiting Corbin’s class on Sept. 27, 2016. Larson spoke to Corbin’s class about his experiences

in Afghanistan. FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

LARSON EARNS Lt. Alexander Larson visited BRONZE STAR the Lindenwood University campus UPCOMING EVENTS while visiting family in the ALUNNUS WORKED WITH St. Louis area. Larson spent nearly 10 months deployed AFGHAN POLICE IN KABUL to Afghanistan in 2015-2016. by BRIAN VORCE

Army 1st Lt. Alexander Larson, Larson said he was able to use the Larson said the six months of

a 2014 Lindenwood University knowledge and skills he acquired during pre-deployment training helped get him LINDENWOOD SPORTS graduate with a degree in four years of ROTC and the Criminal Justice prepared and ready for the 18-month criminal justice, recently earned program at Lindenwood. The Criminal turnaround from college student Justice program, Larson said, was to Army unit commander. a Bronze Star for exceptional particularly helpful. work above and beyond his “Being in the Army means training and duties in Kabul, Afghanistan. “It helped that I knew what I was talking readiness,” Larson said. “It’s like about when working with the police being an athlete. You are always training Larson, a platoon leader in the 127th chiefs and training the police officers,” and staying prepared.” Military Police Co. out of Fort Carson, Colo., Larson said. took command of a police liaison unit in Larson visited Lindenwood days after Afghanistan. His mission was to coordinate The hours spent in the ROTC program were returning from Afghanistan, meeting with ALUMNI EVENTS with Afghan police chiefs in Kabul and also helpful. Larson said he gained a great former criminal justice professor and NATO forces in the city. Larson and his deal of self-confidence in the program, current adjunct instructor Paul Corbin and unit also helped train over 1,000 Afghan as well as an idea of how to lead and speaking in Corbin’s class. Corbin said police officers in subjects like officer safety command a unit. These skills would come he was proud of Larson and was glad to see and crime scene management. to great use during a deployment that him successful and serving others. Larson said “came up out of nowhere.” For his efforts during the deployment, Larson also served three years with Larson was awarded a Bronze Star. While Lindenwood’s Student Senate, where he met Chinese studies major Sydney Dawson the award was for the deployment as “It helped that I knew AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS a whole, one event sticks out in Larson’s what I was talking about (’14). The two are now married. mind as particularly eventful. when working with the “She’s the best thing I found at police chiefs and training In late August 2016, insurgent forces Lindenwood,” Larson said. “She’s more attacked the American University in Kabul, the police officers.” valuable to me than any of the taking hostages in one of the campus Alexander Larson (’14) training and knowledge I received.” buildings. Larson served as the liaison The Larsons currently live in Colorado between Afghan police and NATO forces, Springs, where 1st Lt. Larson will who respond to events such as this when Since graduating from Lindenwood in 2014 continue as a platoon leader for the 127th citizens of NATO countries are involved. and passing the military police officer MPs while working on a promotion to The united forces were able to get the course in March 2015 at Fort Leonard the rank of captain.

hostages out without losing a single person. Wood, Mo., Larson has spent more time ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES in Afghanistan than at his home station “I was up all night for that one,” said in Fort Carson. Larson started training Larson, who continued bridging the gap for the deployment to Afghanistan in July between Afghan police and NATO 2015 and departed for nine and a until 6:30 the next morning. “Then I half months in Kabul that December. went right to sleep.”

3 Lindenwood University ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Award-winning alumna Katherine Schack works with students in a classroom at Heritage Elementary in the Wentzville School District.

PASSIONATE SCHACK WINS PRESIDENTIAL EDUCATION AWARD by RACHEL JOHNSON

Katherine Schack (’03, ’07) “What an incredible honor to have been teaches when needed. She recently has achieved many impressive chosen as a recipient of the presidential spearheaded the organization and accomplishments during her award,” Schack said. “I feel incredibly implementation of the district’s new 12 years as an educator in humble and motivated by this. I have teacher math curriculum and Math In the privilege of working with some of the Focus® training, and she has also the Wentzville School District. most dedicated, hard-working educators presented at the Missouri Council of Her receipt of a Presidential that I have ever known. This award Teachers of Mathematics, Interface, and Award for Excellence in acknowledges all of the amazing, innovative Missouri Staff Development Council Mathematics and Science work going on in my school district and conferences, where she presented on Teaching is, arguably, one of pushes me to continue to increase STEM in the classroom and increasing her most notable. expectations, model perseverance, and student conversations. create classroom cultures in which the The award is the highest recognition a students are guiding their own learning.” “I feel incredibly humble K-12 mathematics or science teacher may Schack began her career in 2004 and motivated by this. receive for outstanding teaching in the teaching first grade at Heritage Primary I have the privilege United States. Schack was among 213 School in the Wentzville School District. of working with some mathematics and science teachers from She moved to Lakeview Elementary School of the most dedicated, across the country named in August 2016 in 2010, where she taught second grade for by President Barack Obama as a recipient hard-working three years and then returned to the first of the prestigious honor. educators that I grade classroom. In 2014, she became a have ever known.” district-wide mathematics coach, working The winners were selected by a panel of Katherine Schack (’03, ’07) distinguished scientists, mathematicians, hand-in-hand with teachers to increase and educators following an initial selection student engagement, encourage process at the state level. Winners received problem-solving within and beyond the “From a young age, I knew my passion a $10,000 award from the National classroom, and aid in creating classroom was to share my love of teaching with Science Foundation to be used at their learning structures that enable students others,” Schack said. “I’ve been able to discretion and were invited to Washington, to be met on their individual levels. do that thanks to the amazing Wentzville D.C., in September 2016 for an awards School District, so I’d love to keep seeing In 2016, Schack undertook a new role as ceremony, educational and celebratory my work through here. I’m loving what math content leader and K-12 curriculum events, and visits with members of the I’m doing, and this feels like home.” coordinator for the district, in which she Obama administration. helps educator teams develop curriculum and review and evaluate content and

4 Lindenwood University ALUMNI EVENTS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Members of the class of 1961 at Homecoming included (from left) Sue Allender McCullah, Stephanie Harms Smith, Wanda Wear Woolen, Nancy Calvert, Mary Lou Reilly Garbe,

and Margi Bassnett Burtin. ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

THE CLASS OF ’61 REMEMBERS WELL by MARGI BASSNETT BURTIN (’61) UPCOMING EVENTS

When I face meeting old friends heritage that is inspirational. Lindenwood an intelligent and capable group of women after not seeing them for years, has survived! Lindenwood produced.” At a time in history I worry that I won’t recognize when women frequently had to take a back A friend of mine who doesn’t keep in touch them–or worse yet, they won’t seat, Lindenwood provided a place for with old friends asked me enthusiastically women to achieve at all levels. We were the recognize me. Not so when we what we did Reunion Weekend. I said, “We athletes, the Cum Laude students, the met for our 55th Lindenwood talked!” And then we talked some more. We class officers, the radio station engineers. reunion in October. Somehow, laughed as we shared different memories We could do anything we wanted—wearing LINDENWOOD SPORTS the years melted away. The class of the same events. And we talked. a hat and white gloves. of ’61 was just like we were Some of us toured the old campus and when we graduated in our small Class of ’61 attendees, in addition to Margi approved of the changes to Nicolls Hall. No Burtin, were Nancy Calvert, Jane Tibbals Dumont, class of 58 women and two men. more group bathrooms. We ate at Pio’s in Mary Lou Reilly Garbe, Sue Allender McCullah, the part of St. Charles we all remembered Nancy Ordelheide Rubenstein, Stephanie Harms And what about Lindenwood? Has it and at one of the restaurants in the new Smith, and Wanda Wear Woolen. The group was changed from the small women’s college we Streets of St. Charles that continues to joined for dinner at Pio’s by Jane Calvert Rogers attended? Of course it has. Like us, it has grow at a rapid pace. (’67), a member of the university’s Board of accommodated change. New buildings fill Directors, and Judith Forstmann Brown (’67), the president of the Lindenwood Alumni Association the area we once called “back campus,” My husband joined us for the weekend. ALUMNI EVENTS and also a member of the Board of Directors. but, like us, “front campus” provides a His comment at the end of it was, “What

Lindenwood System President Michael Shonrock (standing right) talks with (from left) KC ALUMNI EVENT Associate Professor Kathryn Tessmer, Mackenzie Porter AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS (’15), Kris Zeid (’12), and A group of Kansas City-area Andrew Helmick (’15). alumni, consisting of graduates from multiple eras, gathered at the Four Points by Sheraton in Kansas City on Oct. 28 to celebrate the launch of Lindenwood’s new Kansas City Alumni Club. Susan Riffe (’70, left) and Judith Brougham (’60) The group visited amongst themselves; spent some time visiting ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES looked at archival Lindenwood photos, during the event. publications, and memorabilia; and chatted with Lindenwood administrators, including Vice Presidents Joe Parisi and Dan Grigg, Alumni Director Michelle Giessman, and System President Michael Shonrock.

5 Lindenwood University CAMPUS EVENTS

DARK CARNIVAL Lindenwood’s annual Dark Carnival October 26 was the largest and most successful in recent memory.

Held near Cobbs Hall and the Spellmann Campus Center clock tower, the free event was open to the campus and the entire community. There were two haunted houses, more than 50 booths, and live music by Members Only. Organizers estimated the crowd at 8,000. SSM Health sponsored the event.

Cobbs Hall/Historic Campus be offering a live band, haunted house, • Lindenwoodfree food, and University carnival and games local for businesses all ages. will

SPONSORS

6 Lindenwood University AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Shelly Daly talks with Lea Walter, president of the Lindenwood Honor Society, in her office. FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

THE ROAD TO BHUTAN UPCOMING EVENTS DALY NAMED FULBRIGHT SCHOLAR FOR SPRING 2017 by CHRIS DUGGAN LINDENWOOD SPORTS

On Tuesday mornings before The Fulbright organization, which is a “My area of interest is in emerging class, students gather in Shelly program of the U.S. Department of State, markets and developing economies,” Daly Daly’s office in Harmon Hall reports that 1,200 U.S. citizens will said. “This is an opportunity to learn a to eat breakfast, chat, and teach, conduct research, and provide completely different approach than what I expertise in the 2016-17 academic year am used to from Eastern Europe. In laugh. They have studied in her through the Fulbright U.S. Scholar international business, it is important international business classes, Program. Recipients are selected on the to keep in touch with what’s going on in and some have traveled with her basis of academic and professional different regions.” on study abroad trips. For the achievement, as well as a record of service

entire spring 2017 semester, and demonstrated leadership in their fields. ALUMNI EVENTS It took 11 months for Daly to put together “I knew the one I she will go on a trip on her own applied for was a long as a Fulbright Scholar. her application materials and then another six after she submitted them before shot, but I knew it she was notified of her acceptance. was a good fit. I was Daly, an associate professor in the beyond excited when I Robert W. Plaster School of Business & “I knew the one I applied for was a long Entrepreneurship, will lecture at the Royal received the acceptance shot, but I knew it was a good fit,” Daly notification.” University of Bhutan in the areas of global said. “I was beyond excited when I received Shelly Daly, associate professor, business and regional development in the acceptance notification.” South and Central Asia. She joins a handful Lindenwood University AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS of other Lindenwood University academics Daly said only 21 Fulbright scholars were who have participated in the prestigious selected to go to South and Central The experience, ultimately, will benefit her program, including Drs. Ray Scupin, Asia in 2016-17; only six have ever gone students and Lindenwood University. Michael Castro, Sue Tretter, and to Bhutan, and she is only one in the Ryan Guffey. discipline of business. “This gives me an opportunity to show students an aspect of south and central Having worked a number of years in Asia they won’t be able to get at any other Eastern Europe in academia and as a school,” Daley said. “There is value business consultant, she said the in what I can bring back to the students, assignment will allow her to gain a new many of which haven’t been out of perspective in her field. Daly, who has been the Midwest.” on the Lindenwood faculty for six years, ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES has a Ph.D. in international business from Saint Louis University.

7 Lindenwood University AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Sibley Medallion winner Doug Mueller address the Scheidegger Center crowd.

Board Vice Chairman Ben Blanton during the national anthem.

From left is 1997 Sibley Medallion of Honor MUELLER RECEIVES recipient Sue Spellmann, with Jeanne (Gross) Mudd (’49), Board of SIBLEY MEDALLION Directors member Grace Harmon, and OF HONOR Connie Petre.

The 2016 Sibley Medallion of Shonrock said Mueller volunteers to speak Honor was presented recently to each year to classes in the Plaster School Doug Mueller of the Lindenwood of Business and Entrepreneurship. And University Board of Directors. he has personally seen to it that Mueller Prost takes on Lindenwood University students as interns and hires our graduates The medallion is given annually to an into full-time positions. individual who has a deep commitment to this university. Mueller received the Mueller is co-founder of Mueller Prost, and award November 11 at the annual Butler he is a leading business advisor in corporate and Sibley Heritage Society dinner at the and emerging tax issues. He focuses J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts. on high-level tax planning and consult for high-net worth individuals, business owners, and their related businesses. “There isn’t a fundraising campaign that he (Doug) does not participate in. But his care Recipients of for this institution, SIBLEY MEDALLION OF HONOR his commitment, and his service runs ’10s 2016 Doug Mueller ’90s 1999 Gary Shaw even deeper.” 2015 Joe Mathews 1998 Harlen C. Hunter Michael Shonrock 2014 Fred and Barbara Kern 1997 Sue Spellmann Lindenwood System President 2013 Rob and Nancy Matheny 1996 Margaret Ketcham (’33) 2012 Arthur Goodall 1995 Elizabeth Rauch (’44) 2011 Jim J. Shoemake 1994 Anne Pals (’65) “Doug’s generosity to Lindenwood is 2010 Grace Harmon 1993 Larry G. Kelley well-documented,” said Lindenwood ...... 1992 Ruth H. Watkins System President Michael Shonrock. 2009 Ron Ohmes ’00s 1991 Dorothy Warner (’36) “There isn’t a fundraising campaign that 2008 John Hammond 1990 Raymond W. Harmon he does not participate in. But his 2007 Mark Kern ...... care for this institution, his commitment, 2006 Nancy Calvert (’61) ’80s 1988 Jane Crider and his service runs even deeper.” 2005 Ben Blanton 1987 John C. Hannegan 2004 Steve Ehlmann 1986 Henry Elmendorf Mueller has been a member of 2003 Duane Flowers ...... Lindenwood’s Board of Directors for 11 1979 Frank B. Brockgreitens 2002 Jane Calvert Rogers (’67) ’70s years. He is chair of the Board Development Committee, and he is a 2001 Betty Tyree Osiek (’62) member of the Finance Committee. 2000 Bill Symes ...... He is also on the Executive Committee.

8 Lindenwood University CAMPUS NEWS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Jenice Prather Kinsey (’75) talks to Professors Emeriti Ann Canale and Ken Johnson. FACULTY SPOTLIGHT UPCOMING EVENTS

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE LAUNCHES ON HOMECOMING LINDENWOOD SPORTS Homecoming Weekend marked the launch of a new giving society at Lindenwood–the President’s Circle. The society’s first member, Jenice Prather Kinsey (’75), intends to mix the past and the future with her generous gift.

Kinsey, now a faculty member at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, studied at Lindenwood to be a secretary, but a Lindenwood professor, Elwood Miller, encouraged her to be something more. Suffice it to say she took his advice, went on to earn her Ph.D. in accounting, and spent 30 years on the faculty at the University of Missouri before moving to UAB. ALUMNI EVENTS

Kinsey is designating a scholarship in Miller’s name.

The President’s Circle was introduced on Oct. 22, offering alumni and friends a chance to have a lasting impact on the university through gifts of $1,000 or more. Members are invited to an exclusive President’s Circle event at the Lindenwood House, as well as other special events throughout the year. The President’s Circle was Those at the $2,500 level and above will receive an exclusive member’s lapel pin presented by the president at the annual reception/recognition event. Platinum introduced on October AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS members at the $10,000 level will receive two free tickets to a professional performance 22, offering alumni and at the J. Scheidegger Center and will be invited to an exclusive reception and friends a chance to have dinner hosted by President Michael Shonrock and his wife, Karen. a lasting impact on the university through gifts of Dan Grigg, vice president for development and alumni relations, praised Kinsey for $1,000 or more. her generosity. He also pointed out that the first Lindenwood University employee to join the President’s Circle was another alumnus, Dr. Ryan Guffey (’02 and ’03), who serves as vice president for student development. Guffey’s gift was unrestricted, asking only that the money is spent on a mission-based effort that gives back to students. ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

9 Lindenwood University ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT ALUMNA BEGINS WORK WITH NONPROFIT GIRLS’ SCHOOL IN TANZANIA by BRIAN VORCE

2016 Lindenwood University “The combination of these three made “The multicultural environment at graduate Mónica Leblanc me want to travel the world and work for Lindenwood University has made the Miranda recently moved to nonprofits that are making a positive transition of stepping into a new culture Tanzania to work as a program impact on women’s lives,” Leblanc said. much easier for me,” Leblanc said. officer for the nonprofit As a program officer, Leblanc assists the Leblanc is currently working on a one-year Secondary Education for deputy director, works on grant reports, contract with SEGA and plans to Girls Advancement (SEGA). monitors the SEGA development plan pursue a graduate degree in international The SEGA school provides the for the year, and creates new plans for development so she can continue opportunity for at-risk girls the upcoming year. working with nonprofit organizations across the globe. in Tanzania to complete their “I also teach the girls geography and high school education. swimming,” Leblanc said. “So, I do a little bit of everything.” “The multicultural Leblanc, a native of Limón, Costa Rica, environment at double-majored in international relations Leblanc also said her time as an Lindenwood University and nonprofit management with a international student at Lindenwood helped has made the transition minor in gender studies at Lindenwood. prepare her for working in Tanzania. of stepping into a new culture much easier for me.” Mónica Leblanc Miranda (’16)

10 Lindenwood University ALUMNI EVENTS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Ann Fieber Hays with Professor Emeritus John Wehmer.

System President Michael ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Shonrock and wife Karen (left) hosted a reception at the Lindenwood House for the honored class. Also pictured are Alumni Association President Judith Forstmann Brown (’67), Anne Fieber Hayes (’66), Kay Dunham Wilkinson (’60), and Dr. Sharman (Beasley) Vesecky (’66). UPCOMING EVENTS

FIEBER HAYS SPEAKS ON BEHALF OF 50-YEAR CLASS LINDENWOOD SPORTS Ann Fieber Hays (’66), now living in Dallas, Texas, addressed the crowd Saturday morning at the Alumni Breakfast in the Spellmann Center.

I transferred to Lindenwood from the University of , a 40,000-plus student Ann Fieber Hays body. I almost chose Lindenwood in the first place. I had grown up going to the U of I, where my father had graduated. My aunt had attended Lindenwood, which is taught English as how I knew about it. a second language

I particularly liked the smaller campus here, smaller classes and McCluer Hall, ALUMNI EVENTS which had a sorority-like feeling of belonging with Mrs. Edna Steger, head resident. and gifted students.

I was an education major, and I value the advice given in the selection of my courses. She is a member of I took enough English classes that I qualified to teach it through grade 12. Marjorie Ann the Daughters Banks strongly encouraged getting certified in early childhood, elementary, and secondary education. That was a plus when I was hired in Texas. The English courses of the American set me up for the English as a Second Language program, where I spent most of my teaching career. Revolution, the Dallas

When I attended Lindenwood, students were required to take a religion course on Junior League, and AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS the Old and New Testament, as well as History of Civilization. Dr. William W. Thomas Alpha Phi sorority. was outstanding! He made history like reading a good novel. While teaching ESL in The last thing I treasure are the friends I made and that I still am in contact with and enjoy. Texas, she was very proud to relate that she was invited on an international educators’ tour of Japan. ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

11 Lindenwood University ALUMNI EVENTS

ALUMNI SHINE IN ANNUAL Fashion Show Lindenwood alumni and friends enjoyed an afternoon of friendship and fashion at the J. Scheidegger Center for the Arts on September 17 at Spotlight on Lindenwood, the 22nd annual fall luncheon, fashion show and silent auction. Proceeds from this event benefit Lindenwood student scholarships.

St. Charles Alumni Club scholarship recipient Josh Harry walking the runway in casual fashions provided by Thro Clothing Co, St. Charles, Mo.

Lindenwood alumni and friends enjoying a performance by Voices Only, Lindenwood’s acclaimed student vocal group.

Bobbi Netsch (’67) and Frank Netsch of Thro’s and Michelle’s clothing company receiving recognition for the beautiful clothing they provided for the fashion show.

Emily Kedl Alumna Heather Wehmeier (’15). Tomicich (’99, ’02) modeling evening wear.

12 Lindenwood University UPCOMING EVENTS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS ALUMNI PROFILE SPRING MAIN STAGE LINEUP IS DESIGNED TO PLEASE by CHRIS DUGGAN UPCOMING EVENTS

Following a fall season that perform at 8 p.m. on May 13 and at 7 p.m. Anton in Show Business included the Blues Brothers, on May 14 as part of his 2017 The Voice By Jane Martin Howie Mandel, and Kenny G., of Romance Tour. Mathis, who is Columbia Adapted from the the spring Main Stage season at Records’ longest-signed artist, is known for Comedy by Pierre Corneille his unmistakable voice, which he has used March 30-April 1, 7:30 p.m. the J. Scheidegger Center for the in a variety of musical genres, including April 6-8, 7:30 p.m. Arts keeps up the pace with the jazz, pop, and holiday music, as touring Broadway revival of 42nd well as music for the stage and screen. Street and concerts by Vanessa Student Music LINDENWOOD SPORTS Williams and Johnny Mathis. Among his 50 hits on Billboard’s adult contemporary chart are favorites “Chances Band Concert Are,” “It’s Not for Me to Say,” and “Misty.” March 21, 7:30 p.m. The touring Broadway production of 42nd He has recorded more than 80 albums, Street will come to the Lindenwood Theater Orchestra Concert including six Christmas albums, and has at 7 p.m. on Sunday, March 12. Based on March 22, 7:30 p.m. sold millions of records worldwide. In a novel by Bradford Ropes and the 1933 2003, he was given the Lifetime movie of the same name, the musical tells Choir Concert Achievement Award from the Academy the story of a young dancer, Peggy Sawyer, March 24, 7:30 p.m. of Recording Arts and Sciences. who leaves her Allentown home and Jazz Concert

comes to New York to audition for a new ALUMNI EVENTS “The spring portion of our season offers March 28, 7:30 p.m. Broadway musical. All she needs to make a diverse line-up that is sure to meet our it to the big time is one lucky break. patrons’ high expectations,” said Peter Colombatto, marketing director for the The production features big dance numbers Student Dance Scheidegger Center. “We are especially and unforgettable songs like “We’re in the excited to present two performances of Winter Dance Concert Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Dames,” Johnny Mathis on May 13-14, just in time Feb. 9-11, 7:30 p.m. and “I Only Have Eyes for You.” The for Mother’s Day!” Feb. 11, 2 p.m. stage adaptation of the story debuted on Broadway in 1980 and played for eight

Colombatto also said he wanted to thank AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS years. The Tony Award-winning 2001 this season’s sponsors, Centene Charitable Student Fashion revival went on to become the 14th Foundation, which is sponsoring 42nd Spring Fashion Show longest-running show in Broadway history. Street, and Worldwide Technology, Inc., April 22, 8 p.m. which is sponsoring Vanessa Williams and Vanessa Williams will perform in concert (VIP reception at 7 p.m.) Johnny Mathis. at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 1. The multi-talented singer and actor will bring For more information or to order tickets, a collection of hits from her career, which visit www.LUboxoffice.com or call the box Art Exhibits (Boyle Family Gallery) includes number-1 releases like “Save the office at 636.949.4433. TBA Professional Exhibition Best for Last” and “Love Is,” platinum Jan. 12-Feb. 21 records, and an Academy Award for the Opening Reception Jan. 19, 6:30 p.m. song “Colors of the Wind,” which she Upcoming Performances ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES performed for the Disney film Pocahontas. at the J. Scheidegger Center Lindenwood Juried Student Art Exhibition Throughout her career, Williams has sold for the Arts March 30-April 9 millions of records and has received Closing Reception April 9, 11 a.m. numerous Grammy Award nominations. Student Theatre Finishing up the season will be Johnny Heathers The Musical Mathis, who at 81 years old is celebrating By Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy his 61st year in the music industry. He will Feb. 23-25, 7:30 p.m. 13 Lindenwood University ALUMNI EVENTS

2016 HOMECOMING & REUNION! One of Lindenwood University’s most time-honored traditions is Homecoming and Reunion weekend.

Hundreds of alumni gathered on campus Oct. 21-23 for a full slate of activities, including a barbecue and reception, Breakfast with the President, the parade and football game, the Sports Hall of Fame Dinner, and much more. The honored 50-year class of 1966 celebrated with a reception at the Lindenwood house and at a gathering at Miss Aimee B’s in St. Charles. Alumni from all eras shared their memories of Lindenwood and made some new ones in the process.

Sophomores Karina Lopez and Victoria Millarreal enjoyed the Homecoming barbecue with Lindenwood’s south Texas admissions representative Ben Lopez.

Weston Lundy, a sophomore musical theatre major, gives a high-five to a fellow Voices Only sophomore and journalism major Sara Perren. Voices Only held a reunion concert at the Lindenwood University Cultural Center on Saturday, Oct. 22.

Members of Lindenwood’s first-ever football team from 1989 marched in the Homecoming Parade Saturday and were inducted Saturday night into the Lindenwood Sports Hall of Fame. Their team received the inaugural Pioneer Award.

14 CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Homecoming Queen Bre Zanders and King Zac Hodges with Leo the Lion. FACULTY SPOTLIGHT UPCOMING EVENTS

The color guard leads the way for the marching band during Lindenwood’s Homecoming Parade. LINDENWOOD SPORTS ALUMNI EVENTS

Hall of Fame alumnus Earl Austin Jr. (’86), far left, and his sister, Courtney Thompson (’90), far right, with Mark Mahan and Tracy Reed (’92). AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Alumni board member Mark McColl (’85) at the Alumni Breakfast. ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

Homecoming Parade grand marshal Kay Wilkinson (’60) looks through an old yearbook as she talks with Development Officer Stefani Maudlin.

15 Lindenwood University-Belleville ALUMNI EVENTS BELLEVILLE PARENTS, FAMILY & ALUMNI REUNION WEEKEND A HUGE SUCCESS

Parents, family members, and alumni descended on the Belleville campus Oct. 21-23 for Homecoming 2016, and the weekend-long celebration was a huge success!

From the inaugural Homecoming Parade with more than 800 participants, to five different athletic competitions, and brunch with the campus president, there was something for everyone at this year’s Homecoming. Plans are already underway for Homecoming 2017 at Belleville. To download photos from the weekend at no cost, visit www.flickr.com/gp/147320918@N08/703QL9.

The Lynx Football team took on St. Francis University at the annual Homecoming football game on Oct. 22.

Parents, Family & Alumni Reunion Weekend at Homecoming 2016 was a huge During the inaugural Homecoming success. Guests on campus Parade, more than 800 participants enjoyed the Lynx Picnic, hosted had a presence in the parade, by Pedestal Foods. including the Belleville West High School Marching Band.

Campus President Brett Barger and his wife, Yarah, led the inaugural Homecoming Parade down Main Street in Belleville.

Lynx fans lined Lindenwood Stadium to cheer on the football team at the annual Homecoming football game.

16 Lindenwood University CAMPUS NEWS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

LINDENWOOD FAMILY DAY

The fourth annual Family Day was held Sept. 24 on the St. Charles campus. Students’ family FACULTY SPOTLIGHT members had the opportunity to visit; interact with faculty, staff, and administrators; enjoy food; and take part in a variety of fun activities.

Teresa Moses plays a game of Jenga while her grandson, Troy Aldridge (second from left), looks on. Aldridge is a sophomore at Lindenwood University. UPCOMING EVENTS LINDENWOOD SPORTS ALUMNI EVENTS

Emily Rogers, Dawson Holter, Cynthia Holter, and Dennis Holter pose in front of Chick-fil-A in the Spellmann Center dining hall. Rogers and Dawson Holter are freshman students at Lindenwood. AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Lindenwood University System President Dr. Michael Shonrock (left) speaks with Marshall Green and his family. Shonrock welcomed students and their families to his home during Family Day. ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES The family of football player Tanashis Purifoy cheer him on at the Family Day football game. Lindenwood took the loss against Pittsburg State University.

17 Lindenwood University ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Unique spindles frame the staircase.

18 CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

There is plenty of room for entertaining A large sculpture in the Smitheys’ adorns the outdoor space. dining area. ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Unique spindles frame the staircase.

THE HOUSE UPCOMING EVENTS THAT TRASH BUILT Unusual windows add flair by RACHEL JOHNSON to the living room area.

Artist, business owner, and Lindenwood University alumnus

Zach Smithey (’06, ’09) is back in the local spotlight LINDENWOOD SPORTS thanks to his most recent groundbreaking endeavor, the construction of a one-of-a-kind shipping container home in his hometown of St. Charles, Mo. Smithey and his wife, Brie, are building their 3,100-square-foot dream home from eight cargo-worthy shipping containers and a plethora of other alternative building materials.

“We’ve used architectural scrap, bowling alley lane pieces, large wooden spools, “Part of the appeal was salvaged brick, antique light fixtures, discarded materials from landscaping companies

that we could build this ALUMNI EVENTS such as fountains and concrete balusters,” Smithey said. “We see pretty much home mortgage-free while everything, not for what it is, but for what it can be.” having the freedom to The project is a dream-come-true for the Smitheys, who had considered create and design a home building a container house for several years. They decided to move forward with that is uniquely us.” their plans during a recent vacation to Saint Maarten. Zach Smithey (’06, ’09)

“While we were there, we saw a shipping container structure being built with the exact same design that we had in mind, and once we saw the design in real life,

we knew that was the material we wanted to use,” said Smithey. “We already AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS owned a lot on Elm Street in St. Charles that we’d purchased in 2011, so we decided to go ahead and build on it.”

The Smitheys sought the help of a shipping container broker, who helped them secure the highest-quality containers at the best price. The containers originated in Shanghai, China, were used a dozen times to ship various goods around the world, and were then sent to St. Louis, Mo., for the Smitheys’ new home.

Following months of construction, the home boasts two stories, an 11-foot foundation, three bedrooms, and 2 ½ baths. Total construction cost is projected to be about $125,000, which is about a third the cost of typical construction for a dwelling that size.

“Part of the appeal was that we could build this home mortgage-free while having the ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES freedom to create and design a home that is uniquely us,” said Smithey. “Now that it’s all happening, it’s better than we ever dreamed it would be.”

The couple plans to move into their new home by the end of 2016. An hour-long episode documenting the construction of the Smitheys’ container home will air this winter as the pilot episode of a new television series titled The House that Trash Built. The show will debut on the FYI Network, and episodes will be rebroadcast by the HGTV network. 19 Lindenwood University AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

SPORTS Hall of Fame INDUCTEES

20 CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

2016 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

The Lindenwood Sports Hall of Fame moved back onto campus this fall and, if attendance was any indicator, was a rousing success.

Nearly 300 people attended the event, which featured the induction of six individuals, two coaches, and three teams. And this year a new award was introduced, the Pioneer Award, which brought the induction of Lindenwood’s first football team and its first basketball team. The evening was a night to remember for inductees on the floor of the Hyland Arena. UPCOMING EVENTS LINDENWOOD SPORTS

From left, Mike Roberts, Clarence Hendrickson, Shelby Anderson (’11) was a standout baseball player and Noren Kirksey, and Steve Davis, pioneer members of the all-conference selection. Lindenwood men’s basketball team. ALUMNI EVENTS

Krista Yoder (’10) was a difference maker in women’s volleyball, Jon Shockley speaks on behalf of Lindenwood’s setting a school record for solo kills. 2009 shooting team. AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Brad Wachler with Former swim coach Craig Penrose delivers an Hall of Fame quarterback Phil Staback, who led the Lions football impassioned acceptance speech. team to the NAIA national championship game in 2009.

21 Lindenwood University FACULTY SPOTLIGHT

Longtime Athletics Director John Creer talks with Eric Knost (’97) and Kevin Winkleman (’08).

RETIREMENT DOESN’T LAST LONG FOR CREER FORMER A.D. HELPING OUT IN ALUMNI RELATIONS by SCOTT QUEEN

The sun was about to come up Now Creer spends his days on the Creer particularly enjoys working with July 1, and John Creer’s alarm phone talking to former athletes, sharing Michelle Giessman, director of went off. Just like it had for stories, and reconnecting. alumni relations. Creer actually hired Giessman in 1996. the past 25 years. But, he didn’t “I want to get as many former athletes get in his car and drive to re-engaged with Lindenwood as I “Michelle is great in her position,” Creer Lindenwood University. It was can,” he said, “at whatever level they said. “She was housing director for so his first day of retirement. feel comfortable with.” long, and she knew all the students and built up a great rapport with a lot of people. Instead, Lindenwood’s former athletics In addition to reconnecting with former She is ideal to direct our alumni efforts.” director hurriedly prepared for a flight to student-athletes, he has also connected Asheville, N.C., for a month of relaxation with a former athletics director and coach Over the summer, Creer has been busy and family time. It was going to be a from half a century ago. The discussions working all sorts of alumni events. He has true test for a man who didn’t really know have been very enlightening. personally spoken to men’s lacrosse alumni, much about relaxation. and he is involved in meeting and greeting alumni at university events held at Alumni Creer said, “It wasn’t that bad,” because “I don’t play golf or Plaza. He worked on establishing the he already had a consultant retirement have any hobbies, so I Kansas City Alumni Club and has worked job lined up at Lindenwood after his month wanted to do something on alumni research projects for Vice in Asheville. I enjoyed. And I President Dan Grigg. Lindenwood’s former enjoy being a part of AD and track coach is currently working “I don’t play golf or have any hobbies, Lindenwood and to help set up a track team alumni reunion so I wanted to do something I enjoyed,” staying productive.” to be held spring 2017. Creer said. “And I enjoy being a part John Creer, former athletics of Lindenwood and staying productive.” director, Lindenwood University “I enjoyed the month in Asheville and had a good time relaxing,” he said. “But I had a Creer asked President Michael Shonrock sense of anticipation and excitement about to consider the consultant position. He “Did you know it appears we had a starting this new consultant position. I proposed to work reconnecting specifically gymnastics program a long, long time ago? really do enjoy being a part of Lindenwood. with Lindenwood’s alumni athletes. His We had some ‘lost years,’ and there is It is like family to me.” proposal was approved. more and more evidence that quite a few years ago we previously have had several of our current programs,” Creer said.

22 Lindenwood University SPORTS CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

COMING HOME Donald and TO LINDENWOOD Krystal Thomas. FACULTY SPOTLIGHT by DANIEL NEWTON

Donald Thomas (’06) has a fairy Thomas’ life changed on a cold January NCAA Division I national championship. tale story, one so unbelievable evening in 2006. Thomas, who came to Thomas then won the World Championships that Hollywood might find it Lindenwood from the Bahamas to play in the fall of 2007, less than two years far-fetched. That story started basketball, was challenged at dinner after taking up the sport. by a member of the track team that he UPCOMING EVENTS at Lindenwood University and could not high jump 6 1/2 feet. Among his career highlights is competing came full circle in September for his country in three Olympic games when the three-time Olympian “After the challenge, I went and got my —2008, 2012, and 2016. He had his best and his family returned to the basketball shoes and shorts, and we met up Olympics this past summer when he place where his high jumping at the field house,” said Thomas. “They put finished seventh in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. career started. the bar at 6’6”, and I jumped it. They put it at 6’8”, and I also cleared that. He then Thomas has gotten to see the world said it was at 6’9.” After I jumped that he because of the sport of high jumping, going Thomas and his wife, Krystal, returned to told me it was really at seven feet, so we through five passports in his travels. St. Charles, Mo. on Sept. 15. It was their went to the track coach’s office and I was One stamp he would like to add in 2020 is

first campus visit since graduating. The LINDENWOOD SPORTS added to the track and field team.” Japan, the country where he won his couple also brought along their two children World Championship. Tokyo will host the to show them the place where they met. Things escalated quickly. Two days later, 2020 Olympics. still wearing sneakers and gym shorts, “I had a hard time navigating through Thomas set a meet record at Eastern “I am going to shoot for one more,” said campus,” said Thomas. “There are a lot of Illinois. He would go on to finish second at Thomas. “The Olympics is the only medal I new buildings and it is really nice.” the NAIA Indoor National Championships don’t have in my collection. I am someone who doesn’t give up and I am going to One of the stops on the tour was the and help the Lions win a national title. go get it.” Spellmann Center dining hall, where After graduating, he used his final year of eligibility at Auburn, where he won an ALUMNI EVENTS FALL GREAT SUCCESS FOR SOCCER, FIELD HOCKEY by BEN MIZERA AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

The Lindenwood University NCAA Division II Tournament as a its first conference title with a 1-0 win over NCAA Athletics Department took reward for its season. Limestone in the championship game. another step forward this fall, Ten members of the team earned Lindenwood dominated the postseason with two teams having their best all-conference honors, including Player of awards from the conference. Tara Robben seasons at the NCAA level. the Year accolades for Xhovani Dokaj. was the Offensive Player of the Year after Dokaj set an MIAA record by scoring 16 scoring 21 goals. Skylar Starbeck was the The Lions men’s soccer team captured its goals, including four game-winners. co-Goalie of the Year, and Nicole Johnston third MIAA Championship in 2016. After a Head Coach Carl Hutter was tabbed the was the Defensive Player of the Year. They slow start to the season, Lindenwood MIAA Coach of the Year. helped the Lady Lions record 10 shutouts rolled off 12 straight victories, including during the season. Head Coach Sarah

its first seven MIAA matches, to win the The Lindenwood field hockey team set a Johnson was the ECAC Coach of the Year. ALUMNI PROFILE conference crown. The team finished the program record by winning 16 games, and regular season with a 13-3-2 overall record, it finished the season 16-3. The Lady Lions The Lady Lions soccer team won 10 and it was 7-1-0 in conference play. were 7-1 in conference play and earned games for the first time as an NCAA Lindenwood earned its second bid to the the No. 1 seed in the ECAC Tournament. program. Lindenwood went 10-8-1 and tied At the tournament, Lindenwood captured for fifth in the MIAA with a 6-5-0 mark.

23 Lindenwood University-Belleville SPORTS

(from left) Natalie Jablonski, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois; Darius Lewis, of Maryland Heights, Mo; Head Lindenwood Wrestling Coach Angelo Crinzi; Athletic Director Ryan Kaiser; and Assistant Wrestling Coach Homer Vallejo KAISER NAMED ATHLETICS DIRECTOR IN BELLEVILLE

On Sept. 1, Lindenwood years for athletic facilities and changed the “My hope is to connect with most alumni University-Belleville selected overall athletic makeup of that institution. through newsletters and how they can Ryan Kaiser as its new director Before his time at Northwest Oklahoma provide a quality student-athlete of intercollegiate athletics. State, Kaiser was the athletic director at experience,” said Kaiser. “I would love to Warner Pacific College in Portland, Ore. have our alumni return to campus to see He comes to Belleville with 15 just how much has changed and speak to years of experience. Since joining the Lynx family, Kaiser has hit them about all of the endless possibilities the ground running and has been adamant our institution has moving forward.” Prior to joining the Lindenwood Belleville about Lindenwood Belleville strengthening team, Kaiser had served as associate its presence in the community, reaching out Kaiser has been married for 12 years to director of athletics for internal operations to local middle and high schools, performing his wife, Corie Iwen Kaiser. They have at Northwest Oklahoma State University. He community service and generally raising twin 7-year-old sons, Carson and Caden. helped guide the Rangers through an NAIA awareness of the strong athletics program. to NCAA Division II reclassification. During this time, he helped raise $8 million in four Another vision high on his list is reaching out to alumni and bringing them back to campus. LYNX WRAP UP FALL SEASON

Another fall season is in the winning streak that allowed them to Then, it faced No. 1-seeded Park books, and it was another become the No. 2 seed in the American University in the AMC Semifinals and promising one for Lindenwood (AMC) Tournament. dropped a tough 5-1 outing. University-Belleville Athletics. After defeating Missouri Baptist in the opening round, the Lynx ran into The women’s volleyball team had one of No. 3-seeded Columbia College and its best seasons in recent memory, tying its Despite not recording a win on the season, unfortunately lost, 4-2. program record with 18 wins while setting the Lynx football team battled against some numerous individual and team records. of the top NAIA schools in the nation. The Lady Lynx soccer team also The Lady Lynx also hosted its first AMC One of its best games on the year came finished out the year on a high note as Tournament opening round game against Taylor University, where the it won its last five games and went in program history against William Woods. team scored a season-high 45 points from the No. 8 seed all the way in a tough double overtime loss. up to No. 4 in the AMC Tournament. In its inaugural season, the Lady Lynx field hockey team was unable to collect a The Lynx men’s soccer team closed out its The team hosted William Woods University win but showed the future is bright in 2016 regular season on a five-game in the opening round and won 1-0. the years to come.

24 Lindenwood University ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Submit your alumni news and ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES WINTER 2016 notes to [email protected] ’7 0s Denise (Poese) Moorman (’77) organizations. Peters and track facility on Nevis. and visitor’s bureau. He has retired after working in quality received her bachelor’s in Caines received a bachelor’s in been an active member of

control for Mallinckrodt Nuclear mass communications. accounting and finance. the St. Charles Jaycees since FACULTY SPOTLIGHT in St. Louis for 32 years, 2003 and served as chapter and she and her husband, president in 2013. He has Jim, moved to Fernley, Nev., otherwise been active in the a rural farming and ranching St. Charles community and is community 50 miles east of a past recipient of Streetscape Reno in northern Nevada. Magazine’s Beyond the Best Shortly after, the couple joined award. He received a bachelor’s an emigrant trail history group in business administration. that researches and marks the wagon train trails that pushed Ann Hammel (‘06) was recently

America westward to California promoted to editor in chief of UPCOMING EVENTS and Oregon in the mid-1880s. American Quilter magazine by Eighteen months ago, working the American Quilter’s Society with another group member, (AQS), the largest quilting they co-authored a guidebook David Bates (’04) was membership organization in to the Lassen Trail. Once that appointed principal of Prairie the world. Hammel, who is project was completed, to ’90s View Elementary School for responsible for the overall Jodell (Cooper) Larkin (’94) celebrate their 40th wedding the 2017-1018 school year. content, design, and production was recently named chairman anniversary, they traveled to Bates started his career in of the magazine, previously of the board of the American Labrador and Newfoundland, 2004 at Crossroads Elementary spent three years writing and Sewing Guild (ASG), a national Canada, in June and July. School and in 2013 accepted editing the AQS e-newsletter LINDENWOOD SPORTS nonprofit, for 2016-17. ASG They have also enjoyed shorter an assistant principal position and blog, as well as performing promotes sewing as an art camping trips to Yellowstone at Bowles Elementary in the additional writing duties and life skill. The organization National Park and plan on Rockwood School District. He throughout the company. is made up of approximately visiting more national parks has an Educational Specialist Hammel’s Lindenwood degree 16,500 members, including in the months to come. degree in administration is in mass communication. 135 chapters in most major Moorman graduated with a and a master’s in educational US cities, and covers all needle degree in journalism. administration from William crafts for professionals and Woods University, as well as amateurs. For membership a bachelor’s in elementary information, contact Larkin education from Lindenwood.

at [email protected]. She ALUMNI EVENTS received her bachelor’s in retail marketing.

William Lindman (’09) has AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS been working at Amundsen- Scott Research Station–South Pole since January 2016 and ’80s finished up his contract in Judy Peters (’84) was recently Don Rothermich (’04) recently November. After a brief trip promoted to chief operating joined Boone Center, Inc. (BCI) home, he will return to the officer for TPH Media/ as the director of development. South Pole for another year. StreetScape Magazine. She is ’00s He is responsible for strategic Lindman graduated from responsible for the overall print Timothy A. Caines (’03) is planning development and Lindenwood with a bachelor’s and digital operations of the project manager of World Class execution of all fundraising in criminal justice, joined the company, including content, Athletics and the football and special event activities at Peace Corps, and worked in production, sales, accounting, ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES facility at the island of Nevis. BCI. Before joining BCI, he Uganda. There, he developed and strategic planning. Caines is currently working held management positions the idea of going to Antarctica. StreetScape Magazine is an with the Track Division of in the City of St. Charles in upscale lifestyle publication Mondo (the company that communications, community Alumni News & Notes offered free to the community has laid all the tracks for relations, and in the convention continues on next page... six times per year, highlighting World Championships and some of the St. Charles the Olympic Games since the area’s great people, 1970’s) for a major football places, businesses, and 25 Lindenwood University ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES

ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES WINTER 2016 continued

Ph.D. in education with an emphasis on content design and technology.

Robert Henrich (’12) joined Empire Airlines, Inc. in October and will have direct responsibility for all aspects of Empire’s accounting and financial functions. He came to Empire from Clearwater Paper Corporation in Spokane, Wash. He previously held a senior corporate accounting ’10s position with BJC Healthcare Terra Sherman (’10, ’15) Megan Adamo (’10) is the Kourtney Dickerson (’12) was in St. Louis, Mo., and was a recently joined Cushman and founder and CEO of the Adamo married on Oct. 21 to Jacob CPA for the accounting firm Wakefield’s healthcare division Agency LLC, a promotional Shaw in Hermann, Mo. She of Schneider & Gerhardt, PC. as an assistant property event staffing company that is currently an administrative He earned his M.B.A. from manager. In her new role, has staffed over 4,500 events assistant for parent programs in Lindenwood, has a bachelor’s she will be managing various in the four years it has been the Alumni and Development in international relations, BJC facilities, from doctors’ in business. Adamo said her Office at Washington University and is a licensed CPA. buildings to hospitals. Sherman Lindenwood experience helped in St. Louis, Mo. Prior to credits her Lindenwood her achieve her career goals joining Washington University, education for enabling her to and start her own business. she worked in the registration pursue this type of opportunity. Her commitment to charity office at the Center of Creative She received her B.A. in involvement has also enabled Arts (COCA). She received history in 2010 and completed the Adamo Agency Forget Me her bachelor’s in arts her M.A. in communications Nots to raise over $6,000 for and management with an in 2015. the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. emphasis in theatre. She lives in Wildwood, Mo., Tracy (Luley) Flicek (’10, ’11, with her fiancé, Matthew Judson Smith (’12), vice ’12) was married to Paul Flicek Dunscombe; an August 2017 president of continuing on Aug. 12 at Old Hickory wedding is planned. She education at Career Step, Golf Club in St. Peters, Mo., graduated from Lindenwood has been appointed co-chair where the couple lives. She with a B.A. in advertising of the by the National is employed by Lindenwood and media. Association of EMS Educators’ Laura Parn (’13) was appointed University as the assistant (NAEMSE) Education principal of Duello Elementary director of ESL/EPP. She Technology Committee. Career School in the Wentzville received her B.A. and M.A. Step is an online provider School District for the 2017- in international studies and of career-focused education 1018 school year. She is her M.A. in teaching and professional training. currently assistant principal English to speakers of other NAEMSE is a nonprofit at Boone Trail Elementary languages (TESOL). educational association that and is celebrating 14 years in was incorporated in 1995 to education. She has been in promote excellence in EMS public education as a teacher education and lifelong learning and administrator since 2011 within the global community. in Lincoln, Neb., and the Smith is a licensed critical care St. Charles School District. paramedic and is a four-year She was named a Japan member of NAEMSE, as well as Fullbright Memorial Fund an officer in the U.S. Air Force Jimmy Flint-Smith (’12) teacher in 2007 and received Reserves in an aeromedical has been in California since the Presidential Award for evacuation squadron. He graduating from Lindenwood Excellence in Mathematics founded Code 3 CME, a working as a stunt double and Science in 2012. She virtual instructor-led nationally and actor for the History received her master’s in school accredited training company, Channel, CW11, PBS, and administration from Lindenwood in 2012. Smith received his other networks. He is a and also holds a master’s in master’s degree in healthcare member of the Screen Actors teaching, learning, and teacher administration from Lindenwood Guild (SAG). Flint-Smith education from the University and is currently pursuing a received his bachelor’s in of Nebraska, and a bachelor’s mass communication. in elementary education from Greenville College. 26 Lindenwood University ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES CONNECTION Winter 2016 CAMPUS NEWS

Alumni News & Notes continued IN MEMORIAM

Genesis Regalado (’13, ’15) Please be aware that the Mary E.”Beth” (Stallings) Wilton and Chris Pfeifer (’14) were names listed in the In (’65), Carlyle, Ill. married on Saturday, May 28, Memoriam section are Carolyn (Walters) Heckendorn FACULTY SPOTLIGHT 2016. Regalado received of alumni that may have (’66), Newton, Kan. a B.A. in accounting and an passed within recent M.B.A. from Lindenwood. months or within the past Sheila R. Painter (’73), Pfeifer received a B.A. in couple of years. Mexico, Mo. business administration. Elaine (Carlton) Bachman (’74), Ruth (Haines) Doering Zeiss St. Louis, Mo. (’43), Lake Oswego, Ore. Marjorie (Trimble) Semon (’81), Patsy (Payne) Lea (’46), St. Charles, Mo. McGregor, Texas Margaret “Marge” (Fischbach)

Andrew Helmick (’15) has Mary Evelyn (Wyatt) Roberts Bilinsky (’82), St. Louis, Mo. UPCOMING EVENTS (’47), Roswell, N.M. opened Pride Fitness, LLC, in Corinne Richardson (’87), Liberty, Mo., a professional Irma M. (Mc Cormac) Rahtjen St. Louis, Mo. personal training service (’50), Kansas City, Mo. formed to help individuals of Juanita (Head) Walton (’93), Miriam “Sissie” (Shelton) Horne all health levels to achieve their St. Louis, Mo. (’51), Paradise Valley, Ariz. maximum potential. Programs Carol J. (Ellis) Schultz (’97), are customized around Beverly (Randall) McKinney Highland, Ill. each individual’s goals and (’56), Decatur, Ill. Ronald Griesenauer (’02), current level of fitness. Jeffrey Hartsoe (‘15) was Betty (Eckler) Mills (’57), Weldon Spring, Mo. recently one of six new police Helmick received his B.S. Richmond, Ind. LINDENWOOD SPORTS Sonya Marie Tucker (’06), officers hired by Glen Carbon in educational studies. Nanci (Thomas) Calderwood Sullivan, Mo. Village in Illinois. Hartsoe has (’60), Tulsa, Okla. been a full-time certified police Dr. William Symes, officer since 2008 in Dallas, Frances Gay (Pauly) Bryant Jefferson City, Mo. Texas, and the St. Clair County (’61), Alton, Ill. Sheriff’s Department and has also served on the Greater St. Louis Major Case Squad. He received a bachelor’s in criminal justice from ALUMNI EVENTS Lindenwood in 2015.

IN MEMORIAM Lindenwood Belleville mourns passing of Wingo-Rust

Dr. Angela Wingo-Rust, dean of students at Lindenwood University-Belleville, passed away

Oct. 28 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 47. AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

“Our Lindenwood family has lost a very important member who will always be remembered as one of the ‘originals’ whose vision and commitment to the possibility of a great university helped shape what we are today,” Lindenwood-Belleville President Brett Barger said.

Wingo-Rust joined Lindenwood University-Belleville in the spring of 2010 as dean of students. TaJuan Wilson (’15) recently She played a vital role in building what was a night school with fewer than 500 students into relocated to Charleston, S.C., a full-time, full service university. and accepted a position at the Medical University of Wingo-Rust’s physical legacy on the Belleville campus is the women’s dorm, the Ladies’ Lynx Lodge, South Carolina (MUSC) as which she played a major role in designing. She was also a key player in establishing the food service Lindenwood Belleville students currently enjoy, and Wingo-Rust created the Belleville Campus an assistant professor and ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES executive director for student Security Department by coming up with the idea of the Cops for Credit program through which programs and student diversity. Metro East law enforcement officers and members of their families were able to attend the Wilson received his Ed.D. in university for free in exchange for donating their time policing the campus. instructional leadership. “In many ways, she was the face of the university,” said, Mary Reuter, Lindenwood Belleville director of development. “She’s the one who spoke on our behalf. She always had the best interests of the students in mind and was a great friend in addition to being a wonderful colleague.” 27 Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID St. Louis, MO CONNECTION Permit No. 1062 LINDENWOOD UNIVERSITY Alumni Relations 209 South Kingshighway St. Charles, MO 63301

HOMECOMING 2016 WAS ANOTHER GREAT SUCCESS by JUDY FORSTMANN BROWN (’67) President, Alumni Association

While it seems like it just This year, the Belleville campus shared club in the country. Please watch for began, another semester is the same October Homecoming/Reunion announcements of planned events nearing its end as students dash date with St. Charles. Our Belleville in your area. If you are interested up the steps of Roemer Hall for alumni also enjoyed visiting with their in helping to contact fellow alumni former classmates and catching up or to assist with the planning, 8 a.m. classes and take part with one another while enjoying the please contact Michelle at the in late-night confabs in their festivities. (see page 16) Alumni Office by calling dorm rooms to prepare for finals. 314.749.4975 or emailing her Planning for December Commencement at [email protected]. Alumni Reunion Weekend Oct. 21 and 22 ceremonies is already underway. St. Charles (see page 5) was blessed by glorious weather. Alumni will host graduation at the Family Arena and their families enjoyed the Homecoming on Dec. 10. Belleville will hold its Also, be sure to contact the Parade under bright blue skies and graduation ceremonies at the Gateway Alumni Office with updates on warm sunshine. Our 2016 Alumni Merit Center in Collinsville, Ill., on Dec. 11. your mailing or email address. Award winner, Kay Dunham Wilkinson Representatives of the Alumni Board will In addition, we’d like to hear (’60), served as grand marshall of attend each of the ceremonies to welcome of any weddings, birth the Homecoming Parade and crowned the the new alumni to our ranks and present announcements, promotions, Homecoming King and Queen during them with their Lindenwood alumni pins. retirements, etc. for halftime ceremonies at the football game. inclusion in the Alumni Nominations are now being accepted for News and Notes section of the 2017 Alumni Merit Award. Please The 50-year honored class of 1966 was Connection. Sharing the

represented by Anne Fieber Hays at Alumni consider nominating a deserving colleague good news among our LLC breakfast as she shared memories of or classmate who has exemplary career alumni is a great way to Lindenwood with the guests there. Also accomplishments and/or volunteer work. keep in touch and in attendance were seven members of the Courtney Hupper Lenk (’99) chairs the reconnect. Send those to class of 1961 celebrating their 55-year Alumni Merit Award Committee and [email protected]. reunion. Many of the returning alumni will be seeking nominations. Watch the marveled at the changes to the St. Charles Lindenwood website and the Linden Bark I send my best wishes campus and were thrilled to see their for details or contact the Alumni Office for for a joyous holiday beloved heritage campus still much as information on how to submit a nomination. season and look they remembered it. (see pages 5 and 7) The Merit Award is presented annually forward to seeing during graduation ceremonies in May. you back on All rights reserved Design: Michael Thede Design I now challenge the members of the class campus soon! of 1967, next year’s 50-year honored class Our alumni director, Michelle Giessman (and my year!), to start planning their (’16), has been charged with forming return to St. Charles. How wonderful would alumni clubs in the Kansas City, Dallas, it be to gather together at the Alumnae Chicago, and St. Louis markets. Currently, Gate as we did our senior year to have our St. Charles is the only established alumni ©2016 Lindenwood University picture taken!