Fall 2016 Spotlight Newsletter

Newsletter

Issue 3 - Fall 2016 Spotlight on a Shared Sense of Purpose By Dr. James Bell, Dean of Faculty erated by the close connection that we picture on page 35. And those are While the phrase “a rising tide share. only a few of the pictures. lift s all boats” is most commonly as- Of course, some of this interac- Many of the stories in this semes- sociated with JFK and economics, this tion is a consequence of our small ter’s newsletter describe eff orts and aphorism—which Kennedy speech- size and limited faculty and student events that brought us all together writer Ted Sorensen confi rms did not population, but those factors don’t to celebrate and labor and play. Th ey originate with him or the president— account for the genuine camaraderie also highlight the role of alumni and has applications far beyond econom- that characterizes life at Northwest- community members who use their ics. In fact, the phrase came to mind ern. Look at student Charlie Wylie talents and resources to support our as I read through this fall’s Spotlight and instructor Dawn Allen playing students’ eff orts. And—as always— and noted how many stories center on whatever that is they are playing on they showcase the skills and knowl- collaboration and interaction among page 7, check out Northwestern stu- edge that our faculty members bring faculty (within and among depart- dent teachers posing with high school to their classes each day. ments), students, administrators, students as part of a grant-funded We have many things to celebrate, alumni, and our community. Despite initiative that brought the students to from a new DNP program to existing fi nancial and practical challenges that our campuses on page 27, and note programs that continue to do what we have faced in recent years, I believe the diverse mix of volunteers listed they do well. We have students and we are experiencing a rising tide gen- in the caption that accompanies the faculty whose achievements continue to be recognized nationally. Most of all, we have a multi-campus community that understands the importance of Northwestern in all of our lives. Th at shared commitment is the tide that lift s us all individually and enables our successful journey, even A Sense of Common Purpose when the waters get turbulent. As always, I am grateful to be a part of the Northwestern effort! Spotlight 1 Research Day has record number of entries Students and faculty members Dr. Steven Th ompson, professor of from Alva Riley Bryant and Brooke from Northwestern Oklahoma biology. Ortiz for their project titled “Cen- State University recently participat- In the category for chemistry, tral Line Infection.” Dr. Leslie Col- ed in Ranger Research Day. With fi rst place went to the group of Dal- lins, assistant professor of nursing 32 projects from 61 participants, ton Pannell, senior biology major and assistant chair to the Division of 22 poster projects, six artwork dis- from Longdale; Brady Fields, senior Nursing, was their sponsor. plays with accompanying posters, chemistry major from Seiling; and Second place for nursing went to and four conference-style papers, Yeboah Gyening, chemistry senior senior nursing majors Nissi Jordan the 11th Annual Ranger Research from Accra, Ghana, West Africa, from Grand Prairie, Texas; Jonathan Day event reached its highest re- for their project titled “Introduc- Allotey and Cydni Phelps, both cord of entries. tory Bioorganic Study of Firefl y Lu- from Alva, for their project titled Student poster entries were cri- ciferase—An Enzyme to Drive Bio- “Massage Th erapy for Pain in Older tiqued and eligible for awards. Win- luminescence.” Dr. Cornelia Mihai, Adults.” Collins was their sponsor. ners with hometown, classifi cation, professor of chemistry, was their Th ird place for nursing went research project name and sponsor sponsor. to the group of Shanndi Boor, se- include: Second place for chemistry was nior nursing major from Medicine First place in the psychology Austin Anderson, senior chemistry Lodge, Kansas; post-graduates from category went to Janet A. Faakye, se- major from Beaver, with the project Alva, Rebecca Ellis and Danielle nior psychology major from Accra, titled “Study of Iodine Gas Scrub- Williams, for their project titled Ghana, West Africa, for the project ber Effi ciency and Iodine Distribu- “Battle of the Biotics.” Collins was “Background Music during Stud- tion in Northwestern Oklahoma their sponsor. ies: Does It Impact Concentration, Brine Waters.” Anderson’s sponsor Students taking Visual Arts Comprehension, and Retention?” was Dr. Jason Wickham, associate classes also submitted works of art Faakye’s sponsor was Stephanie professor of chemistry. to be judged. Kyle Larson, assistant Widick, instructor of psychology. First place for the nursing cate- professor of art, was their sponsor. Biology fi rst place went to senior gory went to senior nursing majors Continued to Page 3 biology majors from Accra, Ghana, West Africa, Fiifi Neizer-Ashun and Christian Agbola for the project “Chemical Communication in Earthworms.” Dr. Aaron Place, professor of biology, was their sponsor. Second place for biology was the group of Abbie Tillman, senior biology major from Elk City; Willow Gahr, senior biology major from Carmen; and Riley Trousdale, senior biology major from Alva, for their project titled “Hot or Cold?” Place was their sponsor. Th ird place for biology was Wis- dom Baidoo Addae, senior biology major from Accra, Ghana, West Af- First place for the nursing category went to senior nursing majors from Alva Riley Bry- rica, for the project “Eff ects of Dif- ant (left ) and Brooke Ortiz for their project titled “Central Line Infection.” Dr. Leslie ferent Colors on Blood Pressure and Collins, assistant professor of nursing and assistant chair to the Division of Nursing, Heart Rate.” Addae’s sponsor was was their sponsor. 2 Spotlight Hidden gem: Quiet student study space On the 2nd fl oor of Vinson Hall is a hidden gem: the student study room. It is a quiet place where students can come to study or do homework without distraction. Oft en, students can be found reading in comfortable silence on the couch, or spreading out their homework on the large table that gives students room to work without feeling crowded. Th e north wall is painted with chalkboard paint for those students who need a cre- ative outlet during study breaks, or who want to share their favorite motivational quotes to spark inspiration in others. Shelby Brown, an English Education student, says that for her the student study room is “a nice, quiet place to catch up on reading before class.”

Continued from Page 2 ...Research Day Winners with hometown, classi- ton Hill, junior psychology major the Phoenix.” Dr. Jennifer Page, as- fi cation, and art project name in- from Alva, for his work titled “Rac- sistant professor of English, was her clude: coon & Skunk Skulls, Bald Eagle.” sponsor. First place in Art (Natural His- Student conference paper en- Second place went to Ashley Wil- tory Drawing) went to Rachel Da- tries also were critiqued and eligible son, graduate student from Alva, for vis, mass communication major for awards. Winners with home- her work titled “McTeague Doesn’t from Kingston, for her work titled town, classifi cation, research project Go to College: McTeague and the “American Crow.” name and sponsor include: Historical Perspective of the Den- Second place in Art went to First place went to Chandler tal Profession in the United States.” Brieanna McClure, sophomore bi- Steckbeck, senior English ma- Dr. Shawn Holliday, associate dean ology major from Dacoma, for her jor from Enid, for her work titled of graduate studies and professor of work titled “Swanson’s Hawk, Her- “Th e Apparitional Presence: From English, was her sponsor. ring Gull.” Shakespeare’s Richard III to Rowl- Th ird place went to Sydnie Lowe, Th ird place in Art went to Clay- ing’s Harry Potter and the Order of senior biology major from Neosho, Missouri, for her work titled “Th e Role of Women in the Home.” Dr. Kathryn Lane, chair of the English, Foreign Language, and Humanities Department and associate professor of English, was her sponsor. All participants received a certif- icate of participation, and research- ers were encouraged to enter their research projects in the upcoming Oklahoma Research Day that takes place in March 2017 at the Central Students in the Visual Art department’s Natural History Drawing class participated in National Bank Center in Enid. the Ranger Research Day competition.

Spotlight 3 Nolan to serve on NASW-OK board Dlonra (Dee Dee) Nolan, Enid In 2015, she served on the board of Work. senior, was elected as the under- directors for the Enid YMCA and is For more information on North- graduate student representative to a current member of the NASW. western’s Department of Social serve on the Oklahoma Chapter of “We are so proud to have a stu- Work, contact Rehder at (580) 327- the National Association of Social dent from Northwestern elected to 8135 or [email protected]. Workers’ (NASW-OK) 2016-2017 serve on the NASW-OK Board of Board of Directors. Directors,” Dr. Kylene Rehder, De- NASW is the largest member- partment of Social Work Chair, said. ship organization of professional so- “Th is is the fourth year a student cial workers in the world and works from Northwestern will have the to enhance the professional growth privilege to represent the interests and development of its members, of undergraduate students across to create and maintain professional Oklahoma. Ms. Nolan will make standards, and to advance sound so- signifi cant contributions to the social practices. cial work profession through her “I am incredibly honored to service on the board.” have been selected to serve as un- Following graduation from dergraduate student representative Northwestern, Nolan plans to fur- for the NASW Board of Directors. ther her education and apply to I am also grateful to Northwestern’s the University of Oklahoma Anne Social Work Department and, spe- and Henry Zarrow School of Social Dlonra (Dee Dee) Nolan cifi cally, Dr. Kylene Rehder for her support, guidance and leadership. “Social work was not my original major, but aft er learning about Science art donated the advocacy and passionate service on behalf of those in need, I felt so- Dr. Cynthia Pfeifer-Hill and for- in the Natural Science department. cial work was the right path for me. mer adjunct instructor Dr. Judye Poor has become one of the At this juncture, I am not 100 per- Pistole donated this signed litho- world’s best known space artists. cent sure what area specifi cally I’d graph of “Th e Sword of Herschel” by His unique style and dramatic use of like to become involved in within Arizona artist Kim Poor for display color and perspective has won best- social work. Th ere are so many op- of-show awards at art shows and sci- portunities and paths in this fi eld, ence-fi ction conventions across the and I need to narrow down a focus country. He has been published in area,” Nolan said. many science magaziness and com- Nolan is majoring in Social missioned by the National Air and Work with a minor in English. She Space Museum. is a graduate of Northern Oklahoma Th is piece shows an usual view of College and a veteran of the U.S. the rings of Saturn as it would be seen Navy. In 2014, she was a recipient of from Mimas, the fi rst major moon of the Geraldine Burns English Award Saturn. Voyager maps of the moon and Who’s Who among Students in show a huge crater named Herschel American Universities and Colleges. at 2 deg. S and 90 deg. W - exactly the During her tenure in the Navy, she position to get this view. It is believed was awarded three Navy Achieve- that some day future explorers will ment Medals and Sailor of the Year. see this view. 4 Spotlight Clark receives Honorary American FFA Degree Mindi Clark, assistant profes- me into the person I am.” proved the nomination for Clark. sor of agriculture at Northwestern Th e Honorary American FFA She received the award at the Oklahoma State University, was re- Degree is an opportunity to recog- 2016 National FFA Convention and cently selected to receive the Honor- nize those who have gone beyond Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana. ary American FFA Degree. valuable daily contributions to make All recipients received a medal, Th is award is given to those who an extraordinary long-term diff er- and their names were permanently advance agricultural education and ence in the lives of students, inspir- recorded. FFA through outstanding personal ing confi dence in a new generation Th e National FFA organiza- commitment. of agriculturists. tion provides leadership, personal Th e National FFA organiza- “I don’t teach for the awards that growth and career success train- tion works to enhance the lives of sometimes come as a result of teaching through agricultural education youth through agricultural educa- ing,” she said. “However, this award to 629,367 student members who tion. Without the eff orts of highly does serve as a reminder that we as belong to one of 7,757 local FFA dedicated individuals, thousands of faculty are impacting agricultural chapters throughout the United young people would not be able to education on the national level, and States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin achieve success that, in turn, con- we should always work hard to help Islands. tributes directly to the overall well- produce the highest quality teachers For more information about being of the nation. we can. As a result, those teachers Northwestern’s agriculture degrees “I was very honored as only a will impact the profession and their contact Dr. Dean Scarbrough, profes- select few are nominated for this students.” sor of agriculture and chair of the De- award from each state,” Clark said. Members of the National FFA partment of Agriculture, at (580) 327- “Th ere are numerous people who organization’s board of directors ap- 8487 or [email protected]. give their time and eff ort to help agricultural education and FFA, and to be selected from such a large number of supporters was truly an honor. “I have loved agricultural education and FFA since I enrolled in my fi rst agriculture class as an eighth grader. I spent my time in middle and high school taking advantage of the opportunities they provided and served as a state FFA offi cer my freshman year of college. Aft er grad- uating college, I taught agricultural education in eighth-12th grades at Fairview. Th en, I took advantage of the opportunity to work at North- western in its agricultural education program. As such, I have been involved with it in multiple facets, and this award serves as a wonderful reminder of my love for the profession and the importance of my service to Taylor McNeel (left ), National FFA president, presents the Honorary American FFA it because it has truly helped shaped Degree to Mindi Clark (right), assistant professor of agriculture.

Spotlight 5 Barton Communication Lectureship established Th e Barton name is a familiar expect that relationship to continue students. one around Alva and Northwest- with the next generation.” “It is great to see John and Mar- ern from 1966-1995, John Barton Cheryl said her parents placed a garet honored by their children with shaped the minds of young men and strong emphasis on education in her this personal investment in the de- women in the university’s speech and her siblings’ lives while growing partment that the Barton family has department. In honor of the impact up in Alva. infl uenced with two generations he and his wife, Margaret, made at “Th rough the example our par- of teaching at Northwestern – fi rst Northwestern, their daughter Cher- ents have set, we learned the impor- with John and now with Tamara,” yl (Barton) Listen, with her husband tance of investing in others and the said Skeeter Bird, Northwestern Herb Listen, established the John importance of supporting higher Foundation & Alumni Association and Margaret Barton Communi- education,” said Cheryl. “My hus- CEO. “Th is permanent endowment cation Lectureship for Academic band and I would like to honor sustains the family’s positive impact Enrichment to provide additional them for their longtime dedication on the department indefi nitely and funds for Communication faculty to both encouraging and supporting will be a lasting legacy to their com- and staff development. higher education.” mitment to language arts.” Both John and Margaret gradu- Cheryl said she recognizes the For more information on the ated from Northwestern, John in communication fi eld can be com- John and Margaret Barton Commu- 1964 with a degree in speech and plex because it is constantly chang- nication Lectureship for Academic Margaret in 1963 with a degree in ing. She hopes this lectureship will Enrichment, or about investing in offi ce administration. John taught help the communication program at Northwestern students, call Skee- at Northwestern for almost 30 years Northwestern stay up to date with ter Bird, Northwestern Foundation and held the positions of instructor technology and industry trends to CEO, at 580-327-8599 or email him of speech, chair of the speech de- maintain a quality education for its at [email protected]. partment, dean of men and director of educational outreach. He served as associate professor of speech and dean of the School of Humanities, Fine Arts and Lan- guage upon his retirement in Oc- tober 1995. He was honored as an Outstanding Graduate in 2003 and remains a dedicated supporter of Northwestern. John and Margaret have three children, Cheryl, Paul Barton and Tamara (Barton) Brown, who currently is an assistant professor of speech and the interim chair of the Communication Department at Northwestern. “Th e Barton family has been associated with Northwestern for over 50 years,” said Cheryl, who graduated from Northwestern in 1989 with a degree in psychology. “My family members have been students, faculty and staff at various times. We Margaret and John Barton 6 Spotlight On Aug. 30, the English, Foreign Language, and Humanities department majors, minors, and faculty met in Vinson Hall to kick off the semester with a pizza party. Students had the opportunity to connect with other EFLH majors, as well as time to get to know the professors of the department. A good time was had by all, as evidenced by the photos. Above, Dawn Allen and Charlie Wylie have some fun. Right, Kathy Earnest and Roxie James enjoy the festivities. Pianist presents Masterclass, Recital Northwestern’s Fine Arts De- She has appeared as a soloist the Touring Artists Roster of the partment played host to pianist Dr. with Leonard Slatkin, Joel Revzen, Oklahoma Arts Council and the Hyunsoon Whang in September. Miriam Burns and Nicholas Har- Mid-America Arts Alliance’s Artist Whang gave a Masterclass with sanyi. Her recent engagements have Roster. several local piano students and included solo and chamber music A passionate educator, Whang later performed a recital featuring appearances and master classes in has taught and nurtured genera- works by Ravel, Mozart and Cho- California, Michigan, Missouri, Ne- tions of students. Her students pin. braska, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, have won competitions on a state Whang, who serves as the Mc- Utah, Toronto and Reykjavik. and national level, and received Mahon Endowed Chair in Music Her live videos have been airing scholarships and fellowships from at Cameron University in Lawton, on PBS television stations through- prestigious graduate schools. She began her piano studies at the age out the Midwest. Whang serves on presents mini-recitals for public of 4 and started playing public con- school children each year introduc- certs at age 12. Since then she has ing and fostering the love of music delighted audiences in hundreds of in young people. She received the concerts across North America, Eu- Oklahoma Governor’s Arts and Ed- rope and Asia. ucation Award in 2010. Critics have praised her as “the Whang studied at the North kind of player who appears to im- Carolina School of the Arts, the St. merse her entire being in the music,” Louis Conservatory, and Th e Juil- and as one who has “always deliv- liard School, and earned a doctorate ered with grace and beauty.” from Indiana University.

Spotlight 7 Success, Retention Workshop provides tools, strategies

Northwestern’s faculty and staff college and took the initiative to Dr. Roger Hardaway, professor of were invited to a two-day Student bring it to Northwestern. Th is was history; Ken Kelsey, instructor of Success and Retention workshop Gordon’s third time to take the history and fi ne arts; Leigh Kirby, through On Course in July at the course. instructor of psychology; Mistie Alva campus. “Every time I take it there is Kline, instructor of psychology; Th e psychology department, always something new because Debra Lehman, adjunct instructor with the support of Dr. Bo Han- there is so much information,” of psychology. naford, vice president for academic Gordon said. “There is always Also, Dr. Tim Maharry, profes- aff airs, and the Northwestern Mar- something new that sparks my in- sor of mathematics and chair of the vel/Smith Academic Enrichment terest.” mathematics and computer science Series endowment, brought the She believes this workshop is department; Dr. Steven Maier, pro- workshop to Northwestern, which useful for anyone regardless of their fessor of physics and chair of the taught about the On Course prin- position within the university. department of natural sciences; Cal- ciples of Dr. Skip Downing. Th e “It is a program built for reten- leb Mosburg, dean of student aff airs workshop was led by trainer Th erese tion and graduation of students, so and enrollment management; Saun- Nemec from Wisconsin and served what we learned are tools to help with dra Nigh, instructor of nursing; Dr. 38 faculty and staff from Northwest- both…It’s a system that has been out Jennifer Page, assistant professor of ern. there awhile…It is an excellent pro- English; Dr. Aaron Place, professor Nemec is creator and director gram and very successful.” of biology; Candace Reim, coordi- of the Center for Instructional Ex- Participants in the workshop in- nator, student services at the Enid cellence from Fox Valley Technical cluded the following: campus; Dr. Mary Riegel, assistant College in Appleton, Wisconsin. Dr. Richmond Adams, assistant professor of mathematics; Dr. Jen- She has a background in psychol- professor of English; Dr. Kaylene nifer Sattler, assistant professor of ogy and extensive experience deliv- Armstrong, assistant professor of physics; Milissa Sturgill, campus ering training on topics related to mass communication; Ashley Bar- coordinator of ITV/Events coordi- instructional excellence and student ros, adjunct instructor of English; nator at the Woodward campus; Dr. success as well as relationship skills Dr. James Bell, associate vice presi- Steven Th ompson, professor of biol- for the workplace. Nemec holds cer- dent for academics and dean of fac- ogy; Dr. Dena Walker, assistant pro- tifi cations in the Seven Habits of ulty; Dr. Sheila Brintnall, professor fessor of mathematics; Bailey Tram- Highly Eff ective People, the Myers/ of mathematics; Jana Brown, in- mell, Title III academic adviser; Briggs Type Indicator, On Course structor of history; Tamara Brown, Jean Wahlgren, coordinator of Ket- and Phi Th eta Kappa (PTK) Leader- assistant professor of speech and terman Lab; Dr. Shelly Wells, asso- ship. interim chair of the communica- ciate professor of nursing and chair On Course is a program of stu- tion department; Dr. Mary Brune, of the division of nursing; Kimberly dent success principles and innova- assistant professor of nursing; Weast, professor of theatre arts and tive learner-centered strategies for Brooke Ciolino, Title III project di- chair of the fi ne arts department; empowering students to become rector; Amanda Clepper, instructor and Stephanie Widick, instructor of active, responsible learners. Th e of nursing; Rebecca Cook, interna- psychology. learner-centered strategies can be tional student adviser; Koreen Cul- Gordon plans to have a monthly selectively integrated into any sub- bert, adjunct instructor of English; follow-up with all of the participants ject and course to enhance student Brooke Fuller, director of assess- and continue to provide them with achievement and success. ment and institutional eff ective- On Course resources to help them Dr. Cris Gordon, assistant pro- ness; Gordon; Milton Hicks; Kay- utilize what they learned. fessor of psychology and chair of lyn Hansen, director of students/ For more information con- the psychology department, uti- housing; Shane Hansen, instruc- tact Gordon at (580) 327-8447 or lized this program at her previous tor of health and sports science; [email protected]. 8 Spotlight English department sponsors discussion on O’Brien book Th e English Department sponsored a book talk on Sept. 22 to showcase Tim O’Brien’s book Th e Th ings Th ey Carried. During the talk, students and faculty were able to further explore the Vietnam War and how it im- pacted O’Brien through open discussion of the book. Charlie Wylie, an English Edu- cation student (Sr.), led the discus- Meet Your New Faculty Members sion and asked insightful questions Participating in this year’s New Faculty Orientation were: (front) DeLana Hawkins, about characters, themes, and im- Amanda Clepper, Jennifer Pribble, Roxie James; (back) Karsten Longhurst, Shane pressions of events in Th e Th ings Hansen, Taylor Randolph and Pat Th ompson. Th ey Carried. McFadden awarded CWPEP Stipend

Waukomis senior Chasity Mc- sured employment in the participat- ages the child welfare consortium. Fadden has been awarded the Child ing DHS programs. Other partners along with North- Welfare Professional Enhancement “Th e social work program is western include East Central Uni- Program (CWPEP) stipend for the proud to administer the CWPEP versity and Oral Roberts University. 2017 spring semester from North- program and play an essential role Funding for the educational western’s Department of Social in securing and retaining quality so- program is provided by Title IV-E Work. She was the recipient of the cial workers in the public child wel- of the Social Security Act, called the award last spring as well. fare system,” Dr. Kylene Rehder, De- Child Welfare Training program. McFadden currently is majoring partment of Social Work Chair and Th e CWPEP program at North- in social work with a minor in soci- CWPEP coordinator, said. “CWPEP western is administered by Rehder. ology. at Northwestern has graduated 14 For more information on North- CWPEP provides funds for students, resulting in over $100,000 western’s students who plan careers in child being awarded in educational assis- Depart- welfare services in Oklahoma. Th e tance.” ment of stipends are awarded to full-time CWPEP is a Title IV-E partner- Social students majoring in social work ship between the University of Okla- Work, and provide money toward edu- homa, the Oklahoma Department contact cational expenses to participating of Human Services, the US Depart- Rehder students. Students who receive the ment of Health and Human Services at (580) stipends complete educational in- Administration for Children and 327-8135 ternships in child welfare agencies Families Council, and Social Work or kdre- within the Oklahoma Department Education (CSWE) in accredited hder@ of Human Services (OKDHS). social work programs in Oklahoma. nwosu. Upon graduation, students are as- Th e University of Oklahoma man- edu. Chasity McFadden Spotlight 9 Concert Series brings culture, fun

Northwest Oklahoma Concert tains. Th e group has performed to- as the front woman who plays the Series (NWOCS), an organization gether as a family in more than 2,000 mandolin, cello and penny whistle; that seeks to bring cultural perfor- venues across the United States and Kyle Link, a multi-award-winning mances and entertainment to north- Canada, entertaining thousands fi ddler and lead male vocalist; Ash- west Oklahoma, began its 2016-17 with their fusion of old-time musi- ley Link, who plays the fi ddle; Ben season in October and will continue cal instruments, stunning vocals, Link, who plays banjo and vocals; into the spring. modern beats, and emerging with a Aaron Link, lead guitarist and vocals; John Link, bass player; and Becky Link, vocals. In 2017 the Enid Symphony and members of the Northwestern Uni- versity Chorale will continue the series on March 7 at 7 p.m. in Herod Hall Auditorium. Th e Chorale, which includes approximately 50 students and alumni, will be performing Mozart’s Corona- tion Mass with the Enid Symphony. Th is is a 20 minute multi-movement work with soloists. Th e rest of the program will Ball in the House performing at Northwestern in October. Th ey were the fi rst concert in include the Enid Symphony play- this year’s Northwest Oklahoma Concert Series. ing celebrated classics by Mozart, Handel, etc. Th e fi rst concert of the series was fresh new style. The mission of the Enid Sym- a success with the R&B, soul, pop a Th e group includes Rachel Link Continued on Page 11 cappella group Ball in the House, based out of Boston, Massachusetts. Th e concert was Oct. 25. With the group’s extensive tour schedule—nearly 150 shows a year—Ball in the House has performed all over the country at the- aters, clubs, schools and festivals. Jon J. Ryan, vocal; Dave Guisti, tenor; Aaron Loveland, tenor; Dan Szymczak, baritone; Ryan Chap- pelle, bass, make up the artistic group. Th e second concert of the series, Link Union, performed Nov. 29. Link Union is a multi-award win- Members of Link Union performing on Northwestern’s stage in November as a part of ning band from the Ozark Moun- the Northwest Oklahoma Concert Series.

10 Spotlight Continued from Page 10 Concert Series brings ... phony Association is to maintain a symphonic ensemble that will enrich the quality of life in the Greater Enid area and serve as a cultural ambassador to the region and state. This is to be accomplished through the presentation of pre- dominantly classical symphonic music to an ever increasing audience representative of the diverse population of the constituent community. Enid Symphony Th e fi nal concert of the series will feature Donna Bella April 25 at 7 p.m. in Herod Hall Auditorium. Bella Donna is influenced by the Ozarks, the creak of tree limbs in the winter, and the summer sounds of cicadas. The traditional music that flows through the hills and hollows of the area the group was raised in helped them form their sound called “Ozark Jazz.” Bella Donna is composed of Liz Carney on vocals and gui- Northwestern Oklahoma State University Chorale tar; Matt Guinn as lead guitarist; Mike Williamson on bass and cornet; B.J. Lowrance on drums; and Jeremy Chapman on the mandolin. Season tickets, as well as individual performance tickets, may be purchased online at https://nwocs. ticketbud.com or from Holder Drug or Graceful Arts Center. Anyone interested in buying a contributor package or tickets can contact Kimberly Weast, chair of the Department of Fine Arts, by email at [email protected] or (580) 327-8462. Bella Donna

Spotlight 11 Psychology plays host to movie nights Th e Psychology Department held two movie nights during the fall semester. Th e group watched Ferris Bueller’s Day off in October and Th e Birdcage in November.

October Artist-In-Residence, Britynn Davis, leads a Weaving Workshop at the Grace- ful Arts Center in downtown Alva. Davis recently received her MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in Fiber and Material Studies, and in 2011 received a BFA in Graphic Design from the University of Central Arkansas. Exploring the psychology of place through video, sculpture, and drawing, Britynn is interested in the complexi- ties of the mundane and how they infl uence our daily realities, identity, and sense of community. Looking at specifi c sites involved in her own personal history, the process of becoming is questioned through the subtle nuances of our simultaneous resistance and attraction to confi nement, repetition, and structure. Hardaway presents paper in Spain Dr. Roger Hardaway, professor of Four of the western movies in amok in 1880s Nevada; Sparks tries history at Northwestern, presented a which Whipper acted were light- unsuccessfully to prevent the mob paper at an academic conference in weight entertainment vehicles that from lynching three men suspected Europe this summer. were basically forgettable; these in- of murdering a rancher and stealing Th e 16th International Conference cluded three B-grade movies starring his cattle. on Diversity in Organizations, Com- Roy Rogers. But two of Whipper’s “I have been researching Whip- munities and Nations met at the Uni- performances were as strong sup- per for several years,” Hardaway said. versity of Granada in Spain in late July. porting characters in fi lms that were “His career is signifi cant for several Hardaway’s paper was titled nominated for “Best Picture” Acad- reasons; the paper I presented in “Leigh Whipper: African-American emy Awards and have since become Spain highlighted his work in ‘west- ‘Western’ Actor.” Hardaway noted cinematic classics. erns’ when such roles for black actors that Whipper, who lived from 1876 In 1939, Whipper starred in the were few and far between. His perfor- to 1975, had an acting career that fi rst fi lmed version of John Stein- mances in Of Mice and Men andTh e lasted more than 70 years. Most of his beck’s novel Of Mice and Men. Whip- Ox-Bow Incident are dynamic ones in career was spent on the stage, includ- per played “Crooks”, a stable hand on Oscar-caliber fi lm masterpieces that ing performing in several Broadway a ranch in California in the early 20th deserve wider recognition than they productions. Whipper also starred in century. Th en, in 1943, Whipper was have received. several movies, mostly when he was an itinerant preacher named “Sparks” “Th e paper I presented this sum- in his 60s and 70s. Six of his movies in Th e Ox-Bow Incident, based on the mer,” Hardaway continued, “is a fi rst were “westerns”—a genre of fi lms novel by Walter Van Tilburg Clark. step in shedding some academic light that rarely featured black actors. Th is movie is about a lynch mob run on Whipper’s talents. 12 Spotlight Malik receives Dorothy Day Spanish scholarship

Sadik Malik, Accra, Ghana, West minors who have completed three students in the Spanish Club to raise Africa, senior, is the 2016-17 recipi- semesters of Spanish coursework. funds for this scholarship. ent of the Dr. Dorothy Day Spanish Th e scholarship may be applied to- To learn more about the schol- Scholarship from the Northwestern ward university-related expenses, arship, the club or the Spanish pro- Spanish program. such as tuition, fees, room, board or gram at Northwestern, please con- Malik is the current vice presi- books. tact Martinez at (580) 327-8466 or dent of the Spanish Club. He is ma- Various fundraisers are held by fj [email protected]. joring in biology and minoring in both Spanish and chemistry. Dr. Francisco Martinez, professor of Spanish, is the club’s sponsor. Day, who is the founder of Northwestern’s Spanish program and the person whom this scholarship honors, began her career at Northwestern in 1988. She was initially hired to teach foreign language and English, but she began the formalized Spanish program in the fall of 2001. She retired in 2003. To be eligible for this $500 award, students must be full-time continuing Spanish students with a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point Sadik Malik was presented the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Dorothy Day average. Applicants must be Spanish Spanish Scholarship by Dr. Francisco Martinez.

Online minor degree, certifi cate open for grief, bereavement Th e Psychology Department has developed a new minor and certifi cate program scheduled to start in the spring of 2017. Th is minor and certifi cate will be off ered fully online for students and professionals. Th e course outline for both mi- Sigma Tau Delta gathered on Saturday, Oct. 29, for a fun-fi lled movie night. Th ey viewed the movie Ghostbusters, enjoyed candy and popcorn, and built spooky Halloween nor and certifi cate can be found in cookie houses. Seven Sigma members were present for the event. the 2016-2017 catalog. Spotlight 13 McKee, Rankin receive Ranson scholarship Fairview natives Colton McKee He graduated from Northwestern was elected chairman of the board and Rylee Rankin are the 2016-2017 State College in 1943 with a degree and in 1988 became CEO. recipients of the Dean Ranson in physics and mathematics. Follow- During his banking career, he Scholarship at Northwestern. ing graduation, he served 34 months provided leadership to many civic McKee, a sophomore criminal with the U.S. Army Signal Corps and community organizations. He justice major with hopes of working during World War II. Aft er receiving also served on the Board of Direc- as a federal agent in the future, says his military discharge, he taught high tors of the Oklahoma Medical Re- he greatly appreciates the fi nancial school for one year at Zenda, Kan. search Foundation. In 1990, he mar- support scholarships provide him. In 1947, he returned to Fairview ried Mary Teske. In 2002, Ranson He says as a student living off cam- to begin his 55-year career with the received the Fairview Chamber of pus and commuting back and forth Farmers and Merchants National Commerce Lifetime Achievement between Fairview and Alva, scholar- Bank. Ranson served the bank in Award, and he retired from Farmers ships – in a way – make that travel various positions before being elect- and Merchants National Bank that expense lighter. ed president in 1972. In 1985, he same year. He passed away in 2007. Rankin, a senior special education major and active participant Life, contributions of George Mason in intramurals and chemistry club, views her scholarships as opportu- topic of Constitution Day presentation nities from donors to help her suc- Th e Northwestern Institute for Mansion Gunston Hall located in ceed in life. Citizenship Studies and Depart- Mason Neck, Virginia. “I think it’s great these donors ment of Social Sciences presented Th e program explored the life are willing to help students like me the annual Constitution Day event and contributions of George Mason with our education,” said Rankin. on Tuesday, Sept. 13. Th is year’s (1725-1792) as a leading revolutionary, “Without support from scholar- topic was “George Mason: Th e Man founding father and anti-federalist. ships, I’d have to take out loans and Who Would Not Sign.” For more information, please have the stress of paying those loans Th e program took place in the contact Dr. Aaron Mason, professor back for the next 20 years.” Education Center, room 109, on of political science in Northwest- Th e Dean Ranson Scholarship the Alva campus and featured Scott ern’s Department of Social Sciences, was established at Northwestern in Stroh III, who serves as the ex- at (580) 327-8522 or email at ma- 2003 in honor of Ranson, of Fair- ecutive director of George Mason’s [email protected]. view, by his daughters and their families, Rita and Jeral Cain, of Fort Worth, Texas, and Janis and Rob- ert Johnson, of Montclair, Va. Th e scholarship provides fi nancial assis- tance to full-time continuing North- western students with a minimum 2.5 cumulative grade point average. First preference is given to applicants from Major County. Ranson grew up on a family farm southwest of Fairview and graduated from Longdale High School in 1938. On Dec. 23, 1942, he married Ethel Martin, who pre- Aaron Mason and Scott Stroh III visit with audience members during the Constitution ceded him in death in July 1989. Day presentation, “George Mason: Th e Man Who Would Not Sign.”

14 Spotlight Gahr completes internship in Costa Rica Aft er spending two weeks vol- nesting sites, documenting new additional monitoring of the nest. unteering for a summer internship nesting sites, helping make sure the Since she conducted most of the da- in the tropical paradise of Costa turtles reached the ocean, and col- ta-collecting on the particular nest, Rica to observe the nesting habits lecting various data. she described it as having her own of Green Sea Turtles, Willow Gahr “If you walk in front of them nest on the beach. returned to Northwestern this se- or if they see you, it’s over,” Gahr “When you look at them on mester with a new-found respect for said about the turtles. “Th ey’ll turn TV you think ‘oh sea turtles are so those who work with conservation around and go.” pretty,’ but you don’t really take into projects. It wasn’t long before she dove account how big they are and how Th e senior biology major from right into the data-collecting pro- strong they are,” she said. Carmen spent two weeks in Tor- cess, crediting her wildlife conser- Some of the workers had been tuguero at the Sea Turtle there for months while others Conservancy Tortuguero, came in aft er Gahr’s arrival. which was virtually in Th ey all found that they faced the middle of the jungle – more challenges than keep- complete with its humid ing up with the turtles. Th e environment and variety language barriers eventually of wildlife – a far cry from created an unspoken under- the fl atlands of northwest standing between fellow re- Oklahoma. searchers and Gahr because of “Th e jungle was gor- the common need to help the geous,” she said. “On the turtles. conservancy we were in the Gahr may have only spent middle of it. We were on a two weeks working on the strip of land, not quite an conservancy, but in that island but more of a penin- amount of time, she found a sula. Th e river ran on one new respect for the lifestyles side, and the ocean was on Willow Gahr that come with conservation the other, but it was 10 miles projects. long. It was maybe a quarter mile in vation classes with Dr. Aaron Place, “Th e passion people have for width, but it was really long. professor of biology at Northwest- these animals is incredible,” she said. “Th ere are 14 [known] jaguars ern, with preparing her for putting “I see why it’s working; I see why it in that area. Th ere are all kinds of that knowledge into action. takes a special person to want to go lizards from iguanas to the ‘Jesus’ She explained that the turtles out there, months on end…I have a lizards that run on their back feet. would come in at all hours of the whole lot of respect for these people. Th ey had these bright blue butter- day and night, dig their nests with It’s a lot of hard work.” fl ies, and when you fi rst saw them their back fl ippers and take their She has also gained a new per- they looked like a blue-glowing time laying their eggs. Th e process spective on the value of conserva- light. When they would fl ap up you from digging the nest to laying eggs tion projects. would see the underside of their could take hours or not happen at “I understand more the impor- wings, and you could tell it was a all, with the sea turtle coming back tance of conservation,” she said. “I butterfl y.” another day to try again. know they say to conserve water, Within a 10-mile radius on the Gahr was tasked with counting watch out for animals, conserve na- beaches where volunteers from all the eggs as they fell, marking the ture, but it’s more than just that. We over the world were working, Gahr’s longitude and latitude of the nest say it all the time, but until you see job included spending her days and and staying with that turtle until it the need for it and actually have to nights helping to check for turtle fi nished, then staying aft erwards for Continued on Page 16 Spotlight 15 Carnes receives Westerners International scholarship Eric Carnes, a graduate student Carnes is the second Northwest- character’s penchant for drink- from Enid studying in Northwest- ern student to receive the scholar- ing with spousal abuse, an activity ern’s Master of Arts in American ship. Alumna Rebekah Wagenbach common in 19th Century America. Studies degree program, received a received the fi rst graduate scholar- Th is was especially true of men who $1,000 scholarship from Western- ship off ered by Westerners Interna- drank steam beer since it served as ers International, a non-profi t foun- tional in 2014. a “cheap substitute for the more ex- dation that stimulates interest and For Carnes’ major research proj- pensive alcoholic beverages avail- research in the history of the North ect, he discussed steam beer as it is able to the characters,” all of whom American West. used by author Frank Norris in his are members of America’s working Dr. Shawn Holliday, associate 1899 novel, McTeague: A Story of class. dean of graduate studies, recom- San Francisco. Westerners International’s home mended Carnes for the scholarship As Carnes notes, “Th e most like- offi ce is based at the National Cow- from the research he conducted for ly brand drunk by the character Mc- boy and Western Heritage Museum his his AMST 5103/Introduction to Teague is called Anchor Steam Beer in Oklahoma City. It off ers not only American Studies course. or better known at the time the novel scholarship opportunities but also was written as California Common. a place to publish papers and re- Continued from Page 15 Th e history of American Steam Beer search projects for its graduate stu- dates back to the American gold dent members. It is because of these rush days of the West Coast mining opportunities that Northwestern’s Gahr camps. Toward the end of the 19th Graduate Studies Offi ce has part- work out there and put eff ort into century, steam beer had become one nered with Westerners International. it, you don’t really understand it. It’s of the most popular beverages along For more information on North- brought to life really what it means the West Coast, especially in San western’s Graduate Studies program to work out there…and try to save a Francisco.” contact Holliday at (580) 327-8589 species that’s dying.” Later, Carnes connects the or [email protected]. Th e conservancy asked Gahr to come back to be a research assistant next summer. Her duties would change slightly with more responsi- bilities being added, but she is still considering it. “It’s total exposure,” she said about her internship. “It’s best to be exposed to the diff erent cultures, people and things like that. It keeps you well-rounded, and humble. I think if you have the opportunity or can go on an internship [you should.” For more information on Northwestern’s biology program Northwestern’s Department of Fine Arts presented Rehearsal for Murder Oct. 13-15 or the Natural Science Department in Herod Hall Auditorium. Directed by Kimberly Weast, professor of theatre arts and contact Dr. Steven Maier, depart- chair of the Department of Fine Arts, this production was written by D.D. Brooke and from the television play by Richard Levinson and William Link. Th is is a thrilling ment chair and associate professor “theatrical” mystery that is set in an empty theatre in New York City. Cast members of physics, at (580) 327-8562 or sj- shown are: Richmond Adams, assistant professor of English; Crosby Dunbar, Arthur [email protected]. Bohlmann, Zach Frische and Shaden Foresman. 16 Spotlight Starkey presents on German POWs in the States The Northwestern Institute for Citizenship Studies and De- partment of Social Sciences were proud to welcome Kyle Starkey as part of the Annual Cultural Heritage Lecture Series at the Graceful Arts Gallery in downtown Alva. Starkey, currently a doctoral graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Depart- ment of History, presented on the topic “Life Behind Barbed Wire: Recreation and German POWs in the States.” His talk was based on extensive research on the German POW Th e Alva Prisoner of War camp began receiving German prisoners in July, 1943. Prison- camp system in Oklahoma and ers arrived by rail and were marched 2 1/2 miles to the camp, which was located on the across the United States during the south edge of town. Th e mural was painted by Don Prechtel and Robbie Pierce in 2012. Second World War. Camp Alva, which was located in the vicinity of the Woods Coun- ty Fairgrounds south of Alva, was at the time one of several major POW camps in the nation. In early 2015, Northwestern hosted Starkey while he was conducting field work on the subject. For more information, contact Dr. Eric Schmaltz, professor of history in the Department of So- cial Sciences, at (580) 327-8526 or Kyle Starkey discussed “Life Behind Barbed Wire: Recreation and German POWs in the [email protected]. States” at the Graceful Arts Gallery in downtown Alva. Dirks is Oxford grad, 2 accepted into programs Th ree Social Sciences depart- land. Masters Program at the University ment alums are progressing in grad- She is now employed as a Staff of Texas, Arlington. uate studies with one graduate and Liaison for Congressman Steve Rus- Edem Attor, Social Sciences two acceptances. sell, R-Oklahoma in Washington, Department Alumnae has been ac- Hannah Dirks has completed D.C. cepted into the Global Studies Mas- her masters degree in War, Society Jose Martinez has been accept- ters Program at George Washington and Media Studies at Oxford, Eng- ed into the Public Administration University.

Spotlight 17 Northwestern, social workers host event Northwestern partnered with the National Association of So- cial Workers Oklahoma Chapter (NASW-OK) to play host to a category II, two-hour Northwest Help- ing Professional Network event during November. Th e event, “Today, I’m Th ankful For…” took place on Monday, Nov. Th e Ranger band leads the annual Homecoming Parade in downtown Alva. Many area bands were able to participate in this year’s parade. Th e majority of public school stu- 14, in Woodward. dent musicians were able to join the Ranger band to kick off the Homecoming football “We were ecstatic to be part- game at Ranger Field. nering with NASW-OK to provide quality continuing education events to the Northwest region,” said Dr. Many bands participate Kylene Rehder, department of social work chair. “In addition to this networking in Homecoming activities event, NASW-OK is also partner- Seventeen bands from across Okla- Five of the directors leading ing with our social work depart- homa and Kansas marched around their bands in the parade are North- ment to establish a Phi Alpha Hon- Alva’s downtown square during North- western alumni. Th ey include Cara or Society chapter at Northwestern. western’s Homecoming Parade. Bradt and Adam Steuart, class of Benefi ts from this event will go to- Th e Ranger marching band 2007; Daci Crockett, class of 2004; wards start-up costs for this orga- joined with the junior high and high Amy Freeman, class of 2001; and nization.” school bands for a massed band per- Sherri Lohmann, class of 2000. Phi Alpha Honor Society is a formance on Ranger Field prior to Northwestern’s Homecoming national organization that helps the Ranger vs. East Central Univer- Parade competition and Massed provide a closer bond among sity football game. Band performance were made pos- students of social work and pro- Northwestern band director sible by a generous donation from motes humanitarian goals and Dr. Marc Decker is thrilled to have the Charles Morton Share Trust. ideas. more bands participating this year. Th e Ranger band and all the partici- Phi Alpha fosters high standards “I’m delighted to share that we pating students wish to thank the of education for social workers and had nearly 740 students marching in trustees for their support. invites into membership those who our Homecoming parade this year,” “Th e students in the Ranger have attained excellence in schol- Decker said. “In addition, almost all band were thrilled to provide this arship and achievement in social of them were able to stay for the foot- experience and outreach to these work. ball game and participate in a spe- schools,” Decker said. For more information about cial pre-game performance playing To see more information about Northwestern’s department of social alongside the Ranger marching band Northwestern’s Homecoming work or the networking opportuni- in what was a memorable and enjoy- events, please visit www.nwosu.edu/ ty, contact Rehder at (580) 327-8135 able performance.” homecoming. or [email protected].

18 Spotlight Hardaway article published in book Dr. Roger Hardaway, professor formances grew out of ranch work, Hardaway’s former student Jeff of history at Northwestern, is the his interest in black cowboys began Rector is the only African-Ameri- author of an article in a book pub- to shift from those who worked on can pick-up man working in Pro- lished this fall by the University of ranches to those who seek to enter- fessional Rodeo Cowboy Associa- Oklahoma Press. Th e book, Black tain audiences in rodeo arenas. tion (PRCA) events. Rector has just Cowboys in the American West: On “Black cowboys and cowgirls been chosen to work the PRCA’s the Range, On the Stage, Behind the participate in all aspects of the sport National Finals Steer Roping com- Badge, was edited by Professors of rodeo,” Hardaway said. “While petition being held in Kansas this Bruce Glasrud of Sul Ross State Uni- many of them rodeo mostly for fun fall. versity in Texas and Michael Searles in their spare time, others are profes- Th e other student, Sam Gress, of Augusta State University in Geor- sional athletes who earn their livings has been an award-winning bull- gia. going down the rodeo road. fi ghter (those who protect bull rid- Hardaway’s article, “Okla- And, since Oklahoma has a rich ers) in several professional rodeo homa’s African-American Rodeo Western heritage and was once a associations. Performers,” was first published territory that sanctioned slavery, it “I was extremely pleased with in the summer 2011 issue of The is no accident that the Sooner State the article when I wrote it,” Hard- Chronicles of Oklahoma. The essay has produced numerous successful away concluded, “and I am doubly explores the great number of black African-American rodeo perform- happy to have it reprinted in such a Oklahomans who have excelled in ers at all levels of competition and quality work edited by two outstand- rodeo arenas at all levels of com- in all rodeo events. ing historians and published by one petition. These include not only “I was also happy to be able to of the most distinguished university men and women who have com- give some notice to two of my for- presses in the United States.” peted in rodeos but also others— mer Northwestern students who For more information on Har- like clowns, bullfighters, pick-up have been professional rodeo con- daway’s research, contact him at (580) men, and trick riders—who are tract personnel,” he said. 327-8520 or [email protected]. also crucial to the success of any rodeo performance. “Th e editors asked me to con- Weast judges 6A state meet tribute to their book because I have Professor Kimberly Weast Weast observed 9 one-hour been studying African-American was asked again to adjudicate and plays during the day. “It is always an rodeo personnel for several years,” present verbal critique at the 6A honor but nerve wracking to be one Hardaway said. “I have given nu- State One Act Competition in of three judges who determines the merous presentations on black cow- Choctaw. best in the state,” she stated. boys at historical conferences, and I have published several articles and Bowen gives workshop books on the black experience in the American West.” Alumnus Grant Bowen, 2006 for the 2016 presentation of “Rehears- When Hardaway fi rst began re- speech/theatre major, presented a al for Murder,” a play in which he was searching cowboys, his focus was on workshop about his professional featured as the male lead in 2006. In “working” cowhands—those who scenic design company and career. this way, Grant and Professor Weast labor on ranches. Just as rodeo per- Bowen also served as set designer came full circle on this production. Spotlight 19 Wells recognized by ONA for service, dedication Oklahoma Nurses Association award was thrilling. (ONA) recognized one of North- “While this award is given to western’s division chairs recently. one nurse annually, it actually be- Dr. Shelly Wells, associate pro- longs to more than me. It is be- fessor of nursing and chair of the cause of great nurses throughout Division of Nursing, was awarded the state that I am able to do what the Nightingale Award of Excel- I do. I am only one nurse, but I lence. want to see all nurses succeed, Th is award is presented to an and whatever I can do to assist an- ONA member,who during their other nurse to be successful actu- career has provided service and ally steers me towards meeting my dedication to the association, ex- goals of touching the lives of many emplifi ed the characteristics of the patients and helping them to be professional nurse, implemented the best that they can be and live unique strategies to fulfi ll profes- the best lives possible.” sional and community role respon- ONA is the professional as- sibilities, and been engaged in a va- sociation for all registered nurses and the hard work of our faculty, riety of roles that enhance the image in Oklahoma. It is a community our Division of Nursing continues of the nursing profession. of nurses across all specialties and to excel.” practice settings working to pro- Wells looks forward to more mote the profession of nursing. progress in Northwestern’s new Th is community of nurses is Doctorate of Nursing Program working to address the issues that (DNP). face nursing on a daily basis, as “Winning this award only makes well as other issues of importance me want to work harder at North- – nurse-force numbers, workplace western as nursing pursues oppor- safety, standards of care, scope of tunities to improve the health of the practice and patient safety. ONA citizens in our region,” Wells said. focuses on practice, educational, “Rural healthcare has many defi - political and professional issues that cits, but nursing has a real chance impact registered nurses in Oklaho- to make a diff erence in the lives of ma. our people. Th e graduates of our Dr. Bo Hannaford, vice presi- BSN program provide a good foun- dent for academic aff airs, is grateful dation to improve the healthcare to have such a dedicated division situation in northwestern Oklaho- chair to be helping Northwestern’s ma. Th e new BSN-to-DNP Family “My initial response was one of students. Nurse Practitioner program with surprise—it is quite humbling to be “We are very excited about its emphasis on the health needs of recognized for one’s work by peers Dr. Wells receiving the Nightin- the rural communities will only lead and mentors,” Wells said. “Looking gale Award of Excellence,” Han- to healthier improvements for our out at that crowd and seeing nurses naford said. “She is very deserving area.” who are recognized around the state of this award. Her dedication to For more information on North- for the work they have accomplished Northwestern and the profession western’s nursing program, contact and knowing that they are standing of nursing has been nothing but Wells at (580) 327-8489 or scwells@ up in response to me winning the outstanding. Under her leadership nwosu.edu.

20 Spotlight Riley shares journey to receiving doctorate Earning a degree at any level is a education, as well as counseling and torate in 2008 and said it was a jour- process, and Northwestern’s Chris- administration, and she has taught ney of endurance to complete the tie Riley has experienced a journey within the Division of Education at credential that has benefi ted her of her own while earning her doc- Northwestern since 2007. students’ experiences and brought torate. She began working on her doc- new light to her time at Northwest- Riley, director of teacher educa- ern. tion and assistant professor of edu- “I think it aff ected my teach- cation, recently earned her doctor- ing from when I started working on ate in Educational Leadership from my doctorate; it makes you look at Northcentral University in Arizona things through a diff erent perspec- aft er completing her dissertation ti- tive,” Riley said. “It encouraged me tled “High School Graduation Rates to make my courses a little more in Oklahoma aft er the Implemen- rigorous because the expectations tation of End-of-Year Testing Re- have changed. As you work on your quirements.” doctorate, you fi nd out more infor- Riley earned both her bach- mation and how things are looking elor’s and master’s degrees from forward.” Northwestern and has taught in the She said she believes this experi- school system for nearly 20 years. ence also has provided her with em- Her experience includes elementary Christie Riley Continued on Page 22 Adams publishes Sherlock Holmes portrayal article Northwestern’s Dr. Richmond II and now Miller’s guilt-ridden, to examine the traumatic changes in Adams, assistant professor of Eng- angry-postmodern view, the no- Western society from World War II lish, recently published an article tion of Holmes as a “gentleman”— through the late 1970s, but the on- concerning various cinematic and specifi cally defi ned through vari- going preconceptions about, as Dr. television portrayals of Sherlock ous etiquette manuals from Conan Watson refl ects at the fi lm’s end, the Holmes. Doyle’s century—continues to guide concept of “decency” as well as fair- In Adams’ work titled “No More the character’s sense of himself as a ness and concern for others. Greed and Grab: Sherlock Holmes and detective and as a man. “Sherlock Holmes, as most crit- the ‘Decency’ of Gentlemen,” he ex- Adams concludes his article by ics agree, continues to hold a place plores Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s great using Christopher Plummer’s 1979 within Western imagination about detective through the Victorian lens of portrayal of Holmes in Murder by not only the solving of crimes but a “gentleman” in three quite diff erent, Decree as a Janus-like cinematic the manner and style by which he yet interestingly similar ways across the bridge between the hopes of Rath- did so,” Adams said. 20th and 21st centuries. bone from World War II and the Adams’ work was published Adams fi rst uses the Basil Rath- pessimism of Miller in post 9/11 in spring 2016 in Cinematic Codes bone fi lms made during World War America. As Plummer’s Holmes Review by the Anaphora Liter- II, then shift s to Jonny Lee Miller’s investigates the murders commit- ary Press. Th is publication marks portrayal in the post 9/11 American ted by Jack the Ripper in Victorian the fi ft h scholarly article by Adams drama television show “Elemen- England, he comes to question the since his arrival at Northwestern in tary.” Adams argues that despite effi cacy of his cultural institutions, the fall of 2014. the dramatic shift s in cultural as- and does so through the worldview For more information on Ad- sumptions from the Victorian era of a “gentleman.” By doing so, Plum- ams’ work contact him at (580) 327- through the hopes of World War mer’s Holmes off ers a way not only 8428 or [email protected].

Spotlight 21 Choral groups have busy semester Th e Northwestern choirs, led cert, fi rst High School Holiday Fes- nicipal League hosted by the Alva by Karsten Longhurst, director of tival led by Dr. Daniel Hall, and an- Chamber at the Cherokee Strip An- choral activities, had many perfor- nual Holiday Gala with the band, nex. mances this semester. but the group capped off the semes- But, the highlight of the semes- Concerts included the Fall Con- ter with a performance for Alva Mu- ter was singing at the Homestead, the Share Convalescent Home, and the Senior Citizen Center to help bring in the holidays. Th e Chorale and Singers are busy preparing for their collaboration with the Enid Symphony and an international tour this summer. It’s possible members have been seen busily fundraising at Sonic or McDonalds. Th e group is thrilled to share its music on tour in Austria and Czechia this summer! Banned Book Th e University Chorale directed by Karsten Longhurst, director of choral activities, along with the other choral groups presented A Jubilant Song concert at the Methodist church in November. Susan Duell, piano, and Pax Myers, violin, Reading has accompanied the group on this number. Halloween theme Continued from Page 21 On Th ursday, Oct. 26, Sigma Tau Delta held their annual Banned Riley shares journey Book Reading to celebrate freedom from censorship. pathy and understanding for her ney were members of her family. Th is year’s theme was “Hallow- students, and she is able to apply She said her husband and daughters een edition,” so participants read se- what she has learned to her course- provided endless encouragement to lections from their favorite horror, work. complete the degree. Riley said she thinks of the time Riley also is appreciative of the mystery, or thriller works. Excerpts spent working on her doctorate “as a support received from her peers. varied widely from classics such as long professional development class, “Everyone at Northwestern was Dracula to the current king of hor- and everything you learn in that very supportive in my process and ror, Stephen King, and even includ- classroom you’re now able to share helped me with any insight possi- ed a classic comic book. with your students and encourage ble…although I think I am the same Th ere were eleven readers in them to want to pursue a higher or person from when I started, it’s an all, and approximately 30 people at- advanced degree.” accomplishment that no one can tended the event. She encourages her students to take away.” Costumes were encouraged and do well in the classroom and contin- For more information about ues to be encouraged by them. the teacher education program at everyone enjoyed the event’s signa- Some of Riley’s biggest support- Northwestern, contact Riley at clri- ture candy buff et at the end of the ers through this educational jour- [email protected] or (580)327-8694. evening. 22 Spotlight Fine Arts plays host to Holiday Festival Th e fi rst High School Holiday ordinated with high school teachers talents of the high school and uni- Festival choir event took place at the registration of their choir groups versity students. Northwestern on Monday, Nov. 21, or interested individuals. Hall, who is the director of in Herod Hall Auditorium. Members of the Northwestern choral activities and assistant pro- Th e Fine Arts Department Chorale and University Singers, fessor of music at Ohio University, sought out interested high school along with guest clinician Dr. Dan- has traveled worldwide sharing his choir groups and individuals to at- iel Hall, worked with the students music with others. He has con- tend from surrounding schools in throughout the day, starting re- ducted choirs and taught under- Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas. hearsal at 8:30 a.m. Th e day ended graduate and graduate courses in Karsten Longhurst, director of with a concert at 6 p.m. in Herod conducting, voice methods, com- choral music at Northwestern, co- Hall Auditorium to showcase the position, choral arranging and music education. Longhurst said the music performed was an in-depth variety of holiday festival music that was both rhythmic and challenging to give an enriching experience with other cultures and customs. Hall also conducted one of his own compositions. Longhurst said by attending the festival, the high school students gained insight into the university’s Fine Arts Department, as well as learned more about their craft . Th is festival also gave high Dr. Daniel Hall, guest clinician and director of choral activities and assistant professor school choirs an opportunity to take of music at Ohio University, works with high school and university choral students at what they learned and add to their the fi rst High School Holiday Festival held on Nov. 21 on campus. Susan Duell served as accompanist. own school Christmas choir concerts. “Our goal was to give students an awesome experience, and expose them to a lot of diff erent styles of music,” Longhurst said.

Have a Wonderful Spring University and high school students joined together for the culminating Holiday Festival Concert aft er a day of workshops on campus. Semester!

Spotlight 23 Bit & Byte entertains nearly 1,800 students Nineteen Northwestern students show was open to the public on Sat- mish-mashed together. Byte and took to the Herod Hall Auditorium urday, Nov. 19. Bit are computer chips who try to stage Nov. 17-19 for the annual chil- Kimberly Weast, professor of set things right and defeat the evil dren’s production, “Fairy Tale Bits theatre and chair of the Department virus before he infects other com- and Bytes” by Christopher Gieschen. of Fine Arts, was the director. puters. Nearly 1,800 elementary stu- According to Samuel French, Twelve of the 19 Northwestern dents from surrounding schools Inc., play publishers, the produc- students serving as the cast and attended four shows just for them tion is about an evil computer vi- crew in this production were fulfi ll- Th ursday and Friday, Nov. 17-18. A rus named Virus who has invaded ing class requirements for Weast’s a disk containing beloved Principles of Acting class. children’s stories, fairy To learn more about this pro- tales and nursery rhymes. duction or Northwestern’s theatre Th e virus causes all of the program, contact Weast at (580) story characters to become 327-8462 or [email protected].

Above: Children in atttendance from area towns reacted to the performance of Bit & Byte.

Right: Bit and Byte cast members try to fi gure out what to do about the Virus that has attacked their world of children’s stories, fairy tales and nursey rhymes.

Oswald completes capstone; earns doctorate Dr. Jen Oswald, assistant profes- University. ing on the topic of membership in sor of education at Northwestern, Oswald started her degree in Oc- professional reading associations. completed and presented her disser- tober 2012 and fi nished August 5 of Unfortunately, it didn’t fi t into Ca- tation over the summer to earn her this year. Capella University off ers an pella’s quantitative required research doctorate in education. online doctoral program that fi t her guidelines. She currently holds a Bachelor needs of reading and literacy. Since “So I worked on that about a year of Arts in Social Studies from Okla- Oswald was already educated as a and I couldn’t go any further. It didn’t homa Panhandle State University, a reading specialist, Capella’s program fi t in that [guideline] little box so I Bachelor of Science in Early Child- helped her build on her knowledge had to fi x it, choose a new topic or hood Education from Northwestern, and create new challenges in the ar- change to a diff erent degree course a Master of Education Reading Spe- eas of reading and literacy. to fi t a diff erent capstone degree re- cialist from Northwestern and now Oswald’s program required a cap- quirement,” she said. “I think I read a her Doctorate of Education focused stone over a dissertation. She origi- fi gure that said 75 percent of people on reading and literacy from Capella nally started a dissertation research- Continued on Page 25

24 Spotlight Continued from Page 24 Oswald earns doctorate who start their doctorates don’t fi n- During her degree, Oswald felt out [a quarter] it would be too hard ish, and I can see why,” she said. the content she was learning and to come back, so I just kept going. I Although Oswald had to change the research she utilized through was blessed with good teachers who her original qualitative capstone her capstone aligned very well with understood that. I worked hard to get topic, she didn’t abandon the origi- what she teaches in the classroom at ahead.” nal research entirely. Aft er a break Northwestern. “It’s tough, the whole family gets Oswald plans to return and fi nish the “I teach the reading methods the degree. Everybody has to make research for her original topic. courses for education so it’s always sacrifi ces, and I sure couldn’t have Her new and soon-to-be-pub- contributed to my teaching. Th ey done it without my husband and lished capstone research topic is over aligned really well: what I was study- also both sets of our parents…It’s the “best practices aligning to new Eng- ing was what I was teaching and vice hardest thing I’ve ever done.” lish language arts standards.” versa.” She will receive her diploma af- “I knew my capstone front- Oswald understood that in order ter her capstone project is published wards and backward. I purposefully to help others in her fi eld, she needed through Capella University. chose something I was weak in, as to become an expert on her topic. Aft er getting her doctorate Os- far as the strategies. To align to the Her next move is to start being con- wald has big plans within the Divi- standards I chose multi-modal lit- sidered for state literacy and leader- sion of Education at Northwestern. eracies and writing specifi cally in ship positions. Currently, she serves “I’m in the process of starting a multi-modal literacies, so there as regional coordinator on the Board literacy center here on campus; it’s was a lot of research that went into of Directors for Oklahoma Council in the beginning stages of coming that,” Oswald said. “Any time you of Teachers of English (OCTE) and is around,” she said. “It would off er tu- go into ed tech it’s like taking a sip on the committee with the State De- toring from our teacher candidates of water from an open fi re hydrant: partment of Education to help revise to public P-12 students. Th ey don’t there’s just so much there that you the state’s literacy plan. necessarily have to be from Alva; really have to narrow it down. It was Although Oswald will be adding they can be from anywhere, and it easy to get lost in that research, but more leadership roles to her plate, serves the entire family, not just the I knew what I had focused on and she still has a strong love for North- student who is struggling. Not every- why I had focused on it, so it was re- western and the students she teaches. one has an educational background, ally easy to defend why I chose this “I love the challenge that they so you get these calls that say ‘my technology over all the ones that are represent and the passion they have,” son’s teacher is telling me to get an out there.” she said. “I love the fact that they can app to help with reading’. But have Oswald gathered the information be gone for fi ve years and when they you looked at how many apps there and research with the help of Pam come back to town they pop into my are? [Th e literacy center] would help Davidson, collection services assis- offi ce and say hi. I love that connec- serve the student by showing them tant in the J. W. Martin Library, and tion…I just love the fact that you and their parents this is what we are other colleagues. build good relationships here.” focusing on and what you can do at “[Davidson] was wonderful Oswald lives outside of Alva in home. You can’t beat that personal about getting me articles on short the country with husband, Nick, and relationship.” notice and the research I needed to their 3-year-old son, Rett. For more information on North- complete that,” Oswald said. “I just “My son just turned 3, and my western’s School of Education con- have amazing reading colleagues, so goal whenever I started [my degree] tact Dr. Christee Jenlink, associate any time I needed something I could was to always fi nish before he was dean and professor of education, at ask them for anything; when I say 3, and I made it by about fi ve days!” (580) 327-8450 or cljenlink@nwosu. colleagues, I mean from across the Oswald said. “Even with pregnancy edu. state.” complications, I knew that if I sat Spotlight 25 93 participate in Writing Marathon

Northwestern’s English program wrote another round or moved to a to two minutes of their work. Th ere played host to 93 writers in its sec- new location for more inspiration. was no requirement for participants ond Writing Marathon workshop in Th is continued until 1 p.m., to share their work. downtown Alva on Friday, Oct. 7, at when everyone reconvened at the Dr. Lane told the writers they the Graceful Arts Center. Graceful Arts Center for a “read-a- could join the marathon at any time. “Th is event is called a ‘writing round” where writers could share up Th ey just had to check in with her at the Graceful Arts Center, where they would be placed with a writing group. Th ey could leave as their schedule dictated. She encouraged all to participate, even for a little while. A writing marathon is a writing experience that has to be tried to be fully appreciated.

Left : Alva Middle School Writers

Below: Writers working in one of many groups at the Graceful Arts Gallery. marathon’ but requires no running,” Dr. Kathryn Lane, associate professor of English and chair of the Eng- lish, Foreign Language and Human- ities Department, joked. “Th e goal of a writing marathon is to allow the writer to commune with a location furthering their sense of place and comradery. It takes the concept of writer from solitary to communal. Frankly, it’s fun.” Th e day kicked off at 10 a.m. at the Graceful Arts Center with the entire group writing one round together. From 10:30-10:40 a.m. participants broke into groups of no more than four and headed out into downtown Alva to see writer-friendly locations. Each group picked its fi rst destination and decided how long they wanted to write, then shared their work among the group. From there, participants either 26 Spotlight Northwestern plays host to ‘Teach Oklahoma’ students

Th e Division of Education at sive teacher-education activities to nary information for an investiga- Northwestern-Alva recently played enhance their high school curricu- tive research study in which the high host to high school students from lum program. school students asked the question Enid and Woodward in the “Teach Th e day served as an opportu- “why teach?” Th e collaboration on Oklahoma” program. nity for high school students who this project between Northwestern A grant funded the opportu- are interested in a teaching career education faculty and the respective nity for this program through the to have fi rsthand experience of tak- high schools promises to bring im- Oklahoma State Regents for Higher ing Northwestern’s classes, including portant research fi ndings to the “why Education. Th is allowed for mem- education classes, and meeting with teach?” question. Students were also bers in Northwestern’s Division of Northwestern student teachers who able to enjoy lunch with Dr. Janet Education to work with the high are majoring in education. Cunningham, university president, school students to provide immer- Th is event also provided prelimi- and Dr. James Bell, associate vice president for academics and dean of faculty. Th e culminating event for this project will be the students present- ing their fi ndings at the Oklahoma Higher Education Research Day in Enid in March 2017. “Th is event, and the overall grant project, is ground-breaking as a collaboration among Enid High School, Woodward High School and North- western,” Dr. Christee Jenlink, associate dean of the School of Education and professor of education, said. Castle Players party has costumes, scavenger hunt Th e Castle Players club hosted its annual Halloween party on Oct. 29. Th e party consisted of a costume contest judged by Fine Arts faculty Kimberly Weast and Marc Decker and librarian Shawna Gilbert, as well as a scavenger hunt. Th e scavenger hunt was an accumulated list of items Top: Enid High School participants along with NWOSU Student Teachers. that could be found on campus and Middle: Dr. Janet Cunningham visits with high school participants during a lunch around Alva. Th e students had a one meeting. hour deadline to fi nd as many as they could and take a picture with them Bottom: Woodward High School participants with NWOSU Student Teachers. before they had to come back. Spotlight 27 Workshop featured American Revolutionary War, early Constitutional Republic Th e Northwestern Department Other workshop contributors thanked the Oklahoma Humanities of Social Sciences and Institute for sharing their insights and perspec- Council for its generous support. Citizenship Studies, in association tives included Dr. Roger Hardaway, Additionally, the enthusiasm and with a major grant from the Okla- professor of history; Dr. Shawn quality of the teacher-participants homa Humanities Council, recent- Holliday, associate dean of gradu- quite impressed the organizers. Ma- ly conducted a summer teachers’ ate studies and professor of English; son and Schmaltz reported that the workshop on the American Revo- Kenneth Kelsey, instructor of his- teacher-participants gave the work- lutionary War and early Constitu- tory; J. W. Platt, instructor emeritus shop highly positive evaluations tional republic. of history; Dr. Jennifer Page, assis- overall. Th e summer workshop covered tant professor of English; Dr. Justin In summer 2012, the Depart- the period from George III’s acces- Quinn Olmstead, assistant profes- ment of Social Sciences and Insti- sion to the British throne in 1760 to sor of history at the University of tute for Citizenship Studies, through Th omas Jeff erson’s transformational Central Oklahoma in Edmond; and the fi nancial support of the Oklaho- presidential victory in 1801. John Schmaltz, professor emeritus ma Humanities Council, had played It brought 12 teacher-partici- in social sciences from North Iowa host to a similarly successful teach- pants of diverse backgrounds and Area Community College in Mason ers’ workshop on the American experiences to Northwestern-Alva City. Civil War. Th e organizers said that from June 6-9. Teachers came from Th is multi-faceted workshop they hope to hold another teachers’ all corners of the state of Oklahoma, featured lectures, Power Point pre- workshop in the future, perhaps on as well as participants and present- sentations, group discussions and the topic of the Cold War era (1945- ers from Kansas, Iowa, Virginia, and art displays of the Revolutionary 1991), something in which many Idaho. War. Other activities included a fi eld of the teacher-participants have ex- Th e event was designed to en- trip to the Helmerich Center at the pressed considerable interest. hance the knowledge base of middle Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, where For more information about school and high school social sci- teacher-participants enjoyed the Northwestern’s Institute for Citizen- ence teachers regarding this forma- rare privilege of viewing one of the ship Studies, contact (580) 327-8525 tive period in early American his- few surviving original copies of the or [email protected]. tory. Several members of the local Declaration of Independence. and university communities also Moreover, the workshop con- attended some of the workshop ses- ducted an evening “virtual tour” of Weast is speaker sions. Th e expressed goal is that this George Washington’s Mount Ver- shared passion and commitment to non residence by holding a live Sky- at Kiwanis learning and teaching will better en- pe session with staff members of Ed- weekly meeting able today’s educators to serve in the ucational Resources and Outreach very important capacity of cultivat- with the Fred W. Smith National Li- On Wednesday, Nov. 16, Profes- ing America’s next generation of in- brary for the Study of George Wash- sor Kimberly Weast was invited to formed and responsible citizens. ington, Mount Vernon, Virginia. speak at Kiwanis meeting. Workshop organizers included Workshop speakers covered a Accompanying her was Dr. Dr. Aaron Mason, associate profes- wide spectrum of subjects on the Decker of instrumental music, Kyle sor of political science, and Dr. Eric Revolutionary War and early Con- Larson of visual arts and the Novem- Schmaltz, professor of history, while stitutional republic eras, ranging ber artist-in-residence, Anna Val- Dr. Kay Decker serves as chair of the from politics, diplomacy, women, dez. Department of Social Sciences and African-Americans, literature, eco- At the meeting Weast discussed professor of sociology. Mason and nomics, and global legacy to the upcoming fi ne arts events and the Schmaltz also presented on Revolu- British perspective on the war itself. Northwest Oklahoma Concert Se- tionary era topics. Th e workshop organizers ries.

28 Spotlight 10 Endowed Chairs funded by Wisdom Family Foundation

Th e Division of Nursing at in its support of Northwestern, act- licensed independent practitioners in Northwestern recently was gift ed ing as a key partner in the creation northwest Oklahoma.” 10 endowed chairs by the Wisdom of the DNP program, and earlier, As Interim Medical Director for Family Foundation in order to sup- the agriculture education program,” OU Physicians Neurology Clinic, port its newly established Doctor of said Cunningham. “Th e members Dr. Wisdom says she has no doubt Nursing Practice (DNP) program of the Foundation deserve and have Northwestern’s DNP program will announced earlier this year. our sincere gratitude for their sup- benefi t the community. Th e Wisdom Family Endowed port of our students.” “Th rough a collaboration be- Chairs for Nursing, in honor of the Dr. tween the late C.W. and Grace Wisdom of Alva, Peggy Wisdom Fam- will provide funds for teaching posi- Wisdom, ily Founda- tions in the area of nursing. A gift to- daugh- tion, the Share tal of $2.5 million will ensure strong ter of Trust and the leadership for Northwestern’s Doctor C.W and leadership of of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. Grace Northwestern, “Th e establishment of 10 en- and Pro- the develop- dowed chairs through the support fessor/ ment of a DNP from the Wisdom Family Foun- Vice program was dation is the result of one of the Chair of conceived. most impactful gift s in the history Neurol- Th is program, of Northwestern,” Dr. Janet Cun- ogy at using the es- ningham, university president, said. the Uni- tablished re- “Th e creation of the Doctor of Nurs- versity sources of the ing Practice program is a potential of Okla- Northwestern game changer for Northwestern. homa nursing pro- Not only does it raise the academic College of Medicine, says it oft en can gram and expanding nursing facul- standing of the University, but it will be diffi cult for rural areas to recruit ty and rural community preceptors, impact the quality of health care in physicians to their communities due will begin to provide additional ed- Oklahoma for generations to come.” in large part to a common observa- ucational opportunities to all nurses C.W. and Grace Wisdom were tion that once a resident is ready for of northwest Oklahoma,” said Dr. married in 1946 in Kansas City, practice, they oft en practice in the Wisdom. “Nurses who were inter- Missouri, and had three daughters, area where they were trained. ested in expanding their skills in Peggy J., Dianna Sue and Cindy. Th e “Th e Board of Directors of the diagnosis and management of rural couple and their family moved from Wisdom Family Foundation recog- community patients will now have Okeene, Okla., to Alva in the 1950s. nized Northwestern had a valuable an opportunity to remain active in Th e couple’s commitment to educa- resource for northwest Oklahoma in nursing and care for their families tion at Northwestern led to the es- the nationally recognized School of while pursuing their DNP.” tablishment of the Wisdom Family Nursing,” said Dr. Wisdom. “As many For more information on the Foundation to support education in of the nurses who graduate from its Wisdom Family Endowed Chairs the arts, agriculture and health/med- nursing program establish families for Nursing or about investing in icine. and remain active in nursing in their Northwestern students, call Skee- “Th e Wisdom Family Founda- community, an expanded program ter Bird, Northwestern Foundation tion, through the leadership of Dr. which would train nurse practitioners CEO, at 580-327-8599 or email him Peggy Wisdom, has been visionary would likely increase the number of at [email protected]. Spotlight 29 Gugelmeyer, Mayhall compete at NATS

Two Northwestern students competed recently against hundreds of student singers from New Mexi- co, Texas and Oklahoma in the annual National Association of Teach- ers of Singing (NATS) Regional Conference and Student Audition competition in Canyon, Texas. Northwestern music majors Naicee Gugelmeyer (pictured left ), Hardtner, Kansas, senior, and Chance Mayhall (pictured third from left ), Ponca City junior, attended the auditions held at West Texas A&M University. The event began with a pre- liminary round in which students Naicee Gugelmeyer, Lawana Newell, director of vocal studies, Chance Mayhall, and sang for a panel of judges. Final- Susan Duell, adjunct instructor and choral accompanist, at NATS Conference and ists performed again for everyone Competion in Canyon, Texas. Gugelmeyer and Mayhall sang in the competition. present. To sing in the NATS competi- be a composite of English and for- three judges, and they score us and tion, a student must study with a eign language. give us great feedback, which is in- current member of NATS. Lawana Northwestern students have valuable to our growth as young Newell (pictured second from left ), done well at this competition in the musicians.” Northwestern’s director of vocal past, and this year Mayhall made it Gugelmeyer said this was a great studies who accompanied the stu- to the semifi nal round. event, and she enjoyed getting feed- dents to the event, is a member of “I’m extremely pleased with their back from the judges. NATS. Susan Duell, adjunct instruc- performance and with the experi- “NATS is an amazing opportu- tor of class piano and choral accom- ence that they gained from these au- nity for music students simply be- panist, also attended (pictured far ditions,” said Newell. “It was a won- cause of the many opportunities to right). derful experience for our students.” listen to a variety of performances,” NATS celebrates the art of sing- Mayhall treasures the experienc- Gugelmeyer said. “My favorite part ing through a series of competitions es he received from attending the is getting to listen to other people in and programs that are designed to NATS competition. my division and being able to take showcase the talented singers and “NATS is such a treat to get to home ideas to add to my own per- performers who are soon to be ris- attend let alone compete at,” May- formances.” ing stars in the profession. hall said. “You get to hear the cali- For more information on vo- Mayhall and Gugelmeyer per- ber of classically trained singers cal studies at Northwestern, con- formed four pieces of music, 12 your age and make professional tact Newell at (580) 327-8689 or minutes in length. Th e pieces had to connections. We sing in front of [email protected].

30 Spotlight Valdez has culminating art show Students and Assistant Profes- sor of Art Kyle Larson enjoy the work of Anna Valdez, artist-in- residence at her culminating show at the Graceful Arts Gallery in De- cember. Th e exhibition included her work from her month-long residency. NWOSU Visual Arts would like to thank Anna Valdez for her time as Artist-in-Residence at NWOSU. Larson said her dedication and work ethic has had a great impact Brieanna McClure, Rachel Davis, Abbie Haskins, Kyle Larson, Anna Valdez and Prin- on the the community and stu- cess Adenuga have a good time during the December First Friday event. Valdez’ work dents. was on display. Artist off ers Christmas workshop

On Saturday, Dec. 3, Artist- In-Residence Anna Valdez led a holiday-themed observational painting/drawing workshop at the Graceful Arts Center. Th e event was open to the pub- Painters work from Christmas-themed still life during Anna Valdez’ painting workshop. lic and for Northwestern students. Student teachers get hands-on experience Students leave Northwestern their portfolio exit interviews in School (Aline); Kambria Witschi, with the knowledge to succeed in a December. Graduation was held on Arnett High School; Charlie Wylie, particular fi eld. In their fi nal semes- Dec. 11. Alva Middle School ter, 22 senior education students Listed below are the students, Health and Sports Science edu- have entered area schools to gain their hometowns and teaching as- cation – Shelby Anderson, Alva hands-on experience student teach- signments. Longfellow Elementary ing. English education – Derek Bish- Elementary education – Alli- Th e students returned to cam- op, Ponca City East Middle School; son Summers, Ponca City Trout El- pus for seminars in November and Jade George, Aline-Cleo High ementary (Ponca City) Continued on Page 32

Spotlight 31 Students tour Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum Northwestern students in the hower Presidential Library and Mu- Institute for Citizenship Studies and Leviathan Society paid a late Sep- seum in Abilene, Kansas. Th e trip the Department of Social Sciences. tember visit to the Dwight D. Eisen- was sponsored by the Northwestern Besides taking a tour of the various sites on location, they also were invited to a luncheon downtown hosted by Timothy D. Rives, deputy director of the Eisenhower Presi- dential Library and Museum. Dr. Aaron Mason, professor of political science, and Dr. Eric Schmaltz, professor of history, who both serve as the Institute’s co-executive directors, arranged for the visit and accompanied the students there. Th ey wish to thank Rives for making this group tour special, particularly Th ose attending the fi eld trip to the Eisenhower Presidential Library were: Corey the supervised visit to the library’s Shirey, Jacque Ruhl, Deputy Director Timothy D. Rives, Dr. Aaron Mason, Dr. Eric archives, where he discussed with Schmaltz, and Mahmoud Taleb. students possible careers in public history. Continued from Page 31 For the past several years, Rives, who claims Oklahoma roots and Student Teachers... whose grandmother graduated Early Childhood education – School in Moore. from Northwestern many years ago, Kylea Buller, Northwestern Pre-K Special education – Morgan has served on the Institute’s board as and Garfi eld Elementary School Woodruff , Waynoka Elementary well. (Enid Public Schools); Bobbie De- School Established in early fall 2009 wald, Sharon-Mutual Elementary Music Education (vocal music) under Mason and Schmaltz, the in- School in Sharon; Kayla Diel, Pi- – Bryce Lewis, Alva High school formal Leviathan Society encour- oneer-Pleasant Vale Elementary and Alva Middle School; Kenneith ages students interested in topics on School in Enid; Anna Hickman, McIntosh, Putnam City North government, politics, and history Mooreland Elementary School; High School; Isileli Ofi u, Enid High to participate in campus-sponsored Kori Howard, Buff alo Elementary School activities and go to signifi cant his- School; Tiff any Martin, Chisholm History education – Jus- torical sites and off -campus cultural Elementary School; Elizabeth Pat- tin Schanbacher, Chisholm High events. It consists of students major- terson, Liberty Elementary School School ing in political science and history, in Ponca City; Megan Phillips, Special Education – Morgan though membership is open to stu- Woodward Early Childhood Cen- Woodruff , Waynoka Elementary dents of all majors. ter and Horace Mann Elementary School For more information about School, both in Woodward; Morgan For more information on North- the Leviathan Society, Institute, Renbarger, Alva Washington El- western’s teacher education program, or Department of Social Sciences, ementary and Alva Longfellow El- contact Dr. Christee Jenlink, profes- contact Mason at (580) 327-8520 ementary; Lupe Reyes, Woodward sor of education and associate dean or [email protected] or Schmaltz Early Childhood Center; and Taylor for the School of Education, at (580) at (580) 327-8520 or ejschmaltz@ Watham, Timber Creek Elementary 327-8450 or [email protected]. nwosu.edu.

32 Spotlight Amin is fi rst Fulbright Scholar Th is fall, Northwestern wel- Th e process begins with passing experience and my skills,” she said comed its fi rst Fulbright Scholarship administration selection through about Northwestern. student into the Master of Arts in the Fulbright committee, then being Northwestern was one university American Studies program. invited to an interview, followed by that piqued her interest due to the Riskariyani Amin, from Indone- participants sending a paper describ- American Studies program. In Indo- sia, currently has a bachelor’s degree ing their area of study, future studies nesia, Amin was the program coordi- in English literature from Universi- and future departments. Aft er that nator of the American Corner, a pro- tas Hasanuddin (Hasanuddin Uni- they complete the online form and gram under the U.S. Embassy, where versity) in Makassar, Indonesia, and wait until a candidate is announced. students are taught about American through the Fulbright Program will culture and how to speak English, earn her master’s degree from North- and are given overall information western. on the U.S. Before leaving to study Th e Fulbright Program is the fl ag- abroad, Amin was part of Education ship international exchange program USA. “[I have] Two years to get my sponsored by the U.S. government degree, but if I get an opportunity to and is designed to increase mutual do any internships then I get to stay understanding between the people for that then go back to my country.” of the United States and the people of Amin said the lecturers that come other countries. On the U.S. side of to teach American Studies in her the program, there are close to 3,000 country don’t typically come from fully-funded grant opportunities for America, coming instead sometimes students and scholars to have an in- from Australia or England. She be- ternational experience. lieves it will be a more enriching edu- Currently, the Fulbright Pro- cational experience for her and other gram operates in more than 160 students to learn from someone who countries worldwide, but it has op- has seen and understands the culture erated in more than 180 throughout fi rsthand. Riskariyani Amin its life-span. Program alumni in- She came from a smaller vil- clude 33 current or former heads of lage but moved to the larger city of state or government, 54 Nobel Lau- Amin was notifi ed in March Makassar during her undergraduate reates, 82 Pulitzer Prize winners, 29 2016, slightly less than a year later, program because she sees the value MacArthur Foundation Fellows, 16 that she received the scholarship. of education. Presidential Medal of Freedom re- “It was a very unbelievable mo- “Undergraduate degrees are very cipients, and thousands of leaders ment because Fulbright is very hard common already so we need to im- across the private, public and non- to achieve it in my country,” she said. prove in higher education life,” Amin profi t sectors. “It’s a very prestigious scholarship said about graduate degrees. “So tak- Amin started preparing and ap- in my country; I couldn’t believe I ing a master’s in higher education is plying for the Fulbright Program in passed.” very important because a lot of peo- April 2015, but was familiar with the Aft er the Fulbrighters receive ple are going to get a better position program as early as 2011. their status, they are invited to take and a better life.” “Fulbright is how we become admissions tests such as the GRE or Since being on Northwestern’s good leaders and good infl uences or others for individual university re- campus, Amin feels that she will be persons in our society and our com- quirements. able to focus well on her studies and munity,” said Amin on her overall “I believe the small universi- be able to easily get involved in the desire to join the program. ties are better for me to improve my Continued to Page 34

Spotlight 33 NAS off ers store, photos for kids Children of all ages were wel- ing at one of three selection stations. each child with their selections and comed to come visit with Santa and “Although the weather was a bit of a to stay on budget. Only a few chil- have their photo taken with him dur- challenge, we had a great turnout of kids dren are allowed in the store at one ing the seventh annual Photos with and their families for our event,” Angelia time to make it a positive experience Santa and Holiday Gift Store for Kids Case, NAS sponsor, said. for everyone. event at Northwestern-Alva on Sat- Right next door to Santa Land was “We had a wonderful group of urday, Dec. 17 in the Student Center. the Holiday Gift Store for Kids. Chil- volunteers who braved the weather Members of the NWOSU Art Society dren were able to shop for loved ones, to come out and help. We had stu- (NAS) sponsor this annual event. friends, teachers and even pets. dents who stayed aft er fi nals to help, Many photos were taken in Santa Case said that NAS had a num- plus faculty and staff members, a re- Land and available for immediate view- ber of volunteers on hand to help Continued on Page 35

Continued from Page 33 Fulbright Scholar... community. liday also is serving as the Fulbright Holliday indicated that Fulbright “Th e people are very friendly,” Program adviser and scholar liaison. students are academically and so- she said about Northwestern. “I went “I thought ‘I’m going to do my cially gift ed, so it speaks highly of to the Mexican restaurant here, only best to get her to come here’,” he said. Northwestern’s academic programs my second visit, and I was impressed “She sent me a lot of questions, and I for Amin to want to be a Ranger. that they already knew my name.” sent a lot of answers back trying to be Holliday is appreciative of the uni- She chose Northwestern for the as helpful as I could be.” versity’s reputation within the state degree program that fi t her needs but Eventually Amin was approved and is now hoping to build on its in- also the “small-town with a big-city and, through the help of the Ful- ternational reputation. atmosphere” for the opportunities to bright Scholarship, Holliday and Th is year marks the program’s have real-world experience in Amer- Rebecca Cook, Northwestern’s inter- 70th anniversary, with more than ican culture. national student adviser, were able to 360,000 Fulbrighters total partici- Although she’s been in Alva a complete the process with Amin. pating in the program, and approxi- semester, she’s looking for volunteer Holliday and Amin have been mately 8,000 grants awarded annu- opportunities and other ways to get looking to the Alva community, ally. involved with the community to ful- businesses, and organizations for po- Northwestern students may ap- fi ll her experience of learning more tential volunteer work to help with ply for a Fulbright Scholarship to about American culture. her overall experiences while here. study abroad while the university’s “[I want to meet] more people “It would be good for her, good administrators and professors may in the U.S., learn about their culture, for us and good for the program,” apply to become a Fulbright scholar customs, habits; I need it for my fu- Holliday said about Amin. “I appre- to teach or conduct research abroad. ture career and job.” ciate her being here, and I feel we For more information on how to Dr. Shawn Holliday, associate have a lot we can off er her that a larg- apply for a Fulbright Scholarship go to dean of graduate studies, director of er university wouldn’t; the friendli- www.nwosu.edu/fulbright-program Master of Arts in American Studies ness of the community, the people, or contact Holliday at (580) 327-8589 program, and professor of English, and especially if she wants to do the or at [email protected]. started communicating with Amin internships and free work to get the Businesses and organizations in in February this year, answering any experiences. I think people around the Alva community that can off er questions she had about the universi- town are more willing to help and volunteer hours for Amin also are ty, Alva and the degree program. Hol- give her a chance.” asked to contact Holliday.

34 Spotlight Continued from Page 34 NAS Store, Photos... tired staff member and community members who served as volunteers. We can’t thank these people enough for their help,” Case said.

Right: Volunteers for this year’s NAS Hol- iday Store and Photos with Santa event included: Ryan Metcalf, Megan Metcalf, Shawna Gilbert, Rylan Castleberry, Jenny Sattler, Hannah Horn, Dena Walker, Amanda Metcalf, Bill McDonald, Jenni- fer Page, Rita Castleberry, Valarie Case, Angelia Case, Mary Riegel, Haylee Bates, Lorraine Case, Nick Villalobos, Morgan Villarreal, Nicole Marema, Ali Gavitt, Kathy McDonald and Lois Hudgins. English program awards scholarships to 6 students Six students received scholar- received the Judy Jenlink Language was born in 1934 to Frank K. and ships from Northwestern’s English Arts Scholarship. Th is scholarship Garnet Wadley. Fran was born in program for the year 2016-17. was established in 2013 in honor Evanston, Illinois, and moved to Shelby Brown, junior English of Judith (Williams) Jenlink, a 1971 Alva in 1935 when her father re- education major from Beaver, re- alumna of Northwestern. She was ceived his Ph.D. and subsequent- ceived the Gladys Bingham Dot- a dedicated and accomplished stu- ly became a member of the then ter Scholarship. Th is scholarship dent, earning numerous awards. Northwestern Oklahoma State Col- was established in 1997 in honor She taught English in various school lege faculty. She died in May, 1996, of their mother by Dr. and Mrs. systems and had a passion for both aft er a 33-month battle with cancer. Dale Dotter of Okeene and Dr. and the subject and her students. Th e Fran was raised in Alva; she gradu- Mrs. Richard Dotter of Oklahoma scholarship benefi ts English educa- ated from Alva High School in 1951 City. Mrs. Dotter obtained her tion majors at Northwestern. and then attended Northwestern for teaching certifi cate in 1917 from Sydney Bowers, senior English two years. She later completed her Northwestern State Normal School major from Ringwood, received education at Oklahoma A&M with a and taught in rural grade school at the Lebeda Writing Scholarship. major in vocational home econom- the age of 16. Aft er her marriage Established by Dr. Agnes Lebeda, ics and a minor in English. In De- in 1920, she resumed teaching in a 1935 Northwestern graduate, in cember, 1954, she married John D. Oklahoma, where she taught Eng- 1984 aft er her retirement as a pro- Slack, a 1958 Northwestern gradu- lish and drama. In 1935 the Dotters fessor in business at the University ate. While John was stationed in the came to Alva and purchased Noah’s of Northern Iowa, Lebeda served Far East, Fran returned to A&M for Ark No. 3, and in 1935 the family with distinction as a trustee on the her teaching certifi cate and taught opened Dotter’s Restaurant. Mrs. executive committee of the North- one semester at Welch. In 1961, Dotter later returned to teaching western Foundation. Th e recipient John, Fran and family moved to Ar- and in 1967 operated the new Alva of this scholarship must have a 3.5 lington, Texas, where she devoted Public Library. Th is scholarship GPA and be an English major. her life to raising her family, church honors an upperclassman majoring Rachel Reardon, senior English work and other organizations. She in English. major from Woodward, received was a founder of the Arlington Lit- Jade George, senior English the Fran Wadley Slack Scholarship. eracy Group. Th e scholarship is education major from Blackwell, Mary Frances “Fran” Wadley Slack Continued on Page 36 Spotlight 35 Schmaltz presents of German-Russian foodways Dr. Eric Schmaltz, professor ancestors. Th is modern cultural phe- tie in with foodway practices. In the of history at Northwestern and co- nomenon is now also happening 19th and 20th centuries, the can- executive director of the endowed across the globe, above all with the ning of foods became an important NWOSU Institute for Citizenship Americanization of foodways.” activity of preserving and storing Studies, presented in October on the Schmaltz observed that eating typically food reserves during the long winter foodways of Germans from Russia, represents a communal or family activity. months.” before the Golden Spread Chapter of “Th e consumption of food is a Since this immigrant group had the American Historical Society of basic and essential survival instinct, fi rst migrated into parts of the Russian Germans from Russia (AHSGR) at but it can also mean something Empire during the late 18th and early the Senior Citizen Center in Shattuck. more,” he said. “It off ers a more inti- 19th centuries, Eastern European and Th e Great Plains, including mate way of communing with others, even Turkish or Central Asian infl u- northwestern Oklahoma, claim a especially family and friends. Food- ences on the Eurasian steppes helped signifi cant number of descendants ways can become personal and emo- infl uence and shape some of their of this group who immigrated in the tional for people, whereby individu- foodways. Diff erent culinary tradi- late 19th and early 20th centuries. als oft en relive memories when they tions were adopted along the way. Schmaltz made introductory re- see, but especially smell and taste, “My German-speaking paternal marks aided by Power Point before foods from their formative years and great-grandfather, who emigrated showing the long popular 2000 Prai- special occasions. In a way, it can from Russia in 1898, and his sons rie Public Broadcasting (Fargo) video bring people ‘back home’ to one’s be- in south-central North Dakota were documentary, Schmeckt Gut: Th e Food ginnings. Childhood memories par- butchers by trade with their own Ways of the Germans from Russia. ticularly play a role in how we regard family-run businesses. My grand- “We Americans today in par- food. Oft en these communal eating father was a great cook and sausage ticular oft en seek convenience when activities were or still are associated maker,” Schmaltz recalled. “With lots it comes to eating,” Schmaltz said. with holidays, religious traditions of calories, and sometimes deep fried, “With the rise of standardized fast and special occasions, whether Eas- many of these foods today might not food culture in recent decades, we are ter, Christmas or weddings.” always be the best for the arteries in oft en forgetting or moving away from Schmaltz added that “the tradi- a more sedentary society!” Schmaltz many of the culinary practices of our tions of gardening and canning also said. “But at the time they provided Continued from Page 35 vital daily nourishment for farmers, laborers and pioneers. English program awards “It remains quite important to awarded to full-time Northwestern ern. With her positive attitude and document and preserve these tra- junior or senior English majors or passion for education, she was an ditions, practices and memories,” minors with a CGPA of 3.0. inspiration to her students. With Schmaltz said. “Some of these food- Charles Wylie, senior English funds left by Gloria in her estate, ways, though not all, are fast disap- education major from Ponca City, Th e Gloria Piersall English Educa- pearing with the passage of time. and Sydnie Lowe, double major- tion Scholarship benefi ts English Indeed, foodways constitute a more ing in biology and English from education majors at Northwestern. direct and immediate way of staying Neosho, Missouri, are sharing the For more information on North- connected with one’s heritage. It can Gloria Piersall English Education western’s Department of English, cut across generations and be en- Scholarship. Gloria Piersall was Foreign Language, and Humanities joyed by family, friends and others. a lifelong educator, dedicated to scholarships contact Dr. Kathryn It also permits some variety.” her students and their success. She Lane, assistant professor of English For more information on served as an educator for 40 years, and chair of the department, at (580) Schmaltz’s presentations contact him a decade of which was spent as an 327-8470 or [email protected]. at (580) 327-8526 or ejschmaltz@ instructor of English at Northwest- nwosu.edu. 36 Spotlight Fishers establish scholarship for education students While some things may change, perience in education, Dr. Fisher come a business manager, bank vice education remains a constant theme holds her master of education degre president, nurse, psychologist, de- in the lives of Dr. Deena Fisher, in both social science and school tective or case worker.” Dean for Northwestern’s Woodward counseling and her doctorate in Th e couple hopes this scholarship campus, and Tom Fisher, former higher education administration. will help a new teacher emerge as debt- Assistant Superintendent of Wood- She understands the important role free as possible, “so they can concen- ward Public Schools. Th e passion education played in her life as a fi rst- trate on their studies without the dis- the couple has for their profession generation college student. tractions of heavy debt,” said Dr. Fisher. has led them to establish the Dr. “I am the fi rst member of my fam- Th e recipient of the Dr. Deena Deena and Tom Fisher Scholarship ily to graduate from college,” said Dr. and Tom Fisher scholarship must at Northwestern Oklahoma State Fisher. “I want to help other students be a full-time, continuing student at University to support students pur- experience the doors that are opened Northwestern and maintain a mini- suing a degree in education. to them with a university degree.” mum CGPA of 2.5. Th e recipient also “Tom and Deena have dedicated Tom, a 1966 alumnus, returned must be an education major. Candi- their lives to public education and to Northwestern to receive his mas- dates will be chosen by the North- ter’s in secondary school administration in 2005. He was honored in 2016 as Northwestern’s Outstanding Graduate in Education with more than 50 years of experience. He says education has made a tremendous impact on his life. “My education experience and degrees earned from Northwestern have opened doors that otherwise would have never been opened,” said Tom. “Th ese opportunities have allowed me to advance from a beginning teacher to the position of Assistant Superin- tendent. Since Northwestern has giv- Dr. Deena Fisher, Dean of Northwest- en so much to me, it is only fi tting for Tom Fisher speaks aft er being recognized ern’s Woodward campus, stands with me to give back to Northwestern and as Northwestern’s Outstanding Graduate the deSERVING Ranger Award student its students.” in Education at Spring Reunion 2016. recipient, Shelby Lamberth (left ) at Spring Reunion 2016. Serving as the Dean of North- western’s Woodward campus since western Scholarship Committee improving the lives of students, so 1996, Dr. Fisher sees education im- based on recommendations from the it is no surprise they would choose pacting the lives of her students on Education department. Th e scholar- to fi nancially support students at a daily basis. She especially loves ship may be applied toward univer- Northwestern,” said Dr. Janet Cun- graduations, held in the winter and sity-related expenses, including tu- ningham, university president. “To spring each year. ition, fees, books, room and board. their core, they believe in the power “I always look forward to the For more information on the Dr. of education. We are very apprecia- excitement from students as they Deena and Tom Fisher Scholarship tive of their gift , but even more im- celebrate their graduation. It is a joy or about investing in Northwestern portantly, we are grateful for their as students take the time to email students, call Skeeter Bird, North- life’s work in touching the lives of me, write me, or tell me in person western Foundation CEO, at 580- students at multiple levels.” what getting their degree has meant 327-8593 or email him at aebird@ With more than 30 years’ ex- to them and has helped them to be- nwosu.edu.

Spotlight 37 Choirs, Bands combine for Annual Holiday Gala Th e traditional Northwestern lighting of the university Christ- SGA members also made this Oklahoma State University Holiday mas tree outside on the Herod Hall concert a “Pack-the-Auditorium” Gala Concert was held on Saturday, lawn at the Bell Tower immediately event for Northwestern’s students. Dec. 10 in Herod Hall Auditorium, following the concert. Th is year the Th ey passed out free t-shirts to the followed by the annual tree lighting members of the Student Govern- fi rst 50 Northwestern students in line. ceremony. ment Association (SGA) served hot Th e University Singers and Uni- Dr. Janet Cunningham, univer- chocolate and hot apple cider at the versity Chorale presented holiday fa- sity president, continued the annual lighting ceremony. vorites led by Karsten Longhurst, director of choral music. Th e University Singers performed “Th is Little Babe,” “Carol of the Bells” and “Silent Night.” Th e University Chorale presented four songs including “Angels from the Realms of Glory” and “Noel.” Th e choirs are accompanied by Susan Duell, adjunct instructor of music, and Lawana Newell, director of vocal studies. Numerous students were featured Rehder is one of 100 selected soloists, including Naice Gugelmeyer, Hardtner, Kansas, senior; Chance May- hall, Ponca City junior; Paxton Myers, for Zarrow Social Work honors Ponca City freshman; Aaron Pierce, Dr. Kylene Rehder has been cho- 15, 2017. During the event, the 100 Alva sophomore; and Sadik Malik, Ac- sen as one of 100 honorees in the honorees will be recognized. Th e cra, Ghana, Africa, senior. fi eld of social work from the Anne honorees are social workers, former Th e Northwestern jazz ensem- and Henry Zarrow School of Social faculty, directors, alumni, and other ble and symphony band led by Dr. Work at the University of Oklahoma. friends and supporters of the school. Marc Decker, director of instrumen- She was chosen because of her out- tal music and music education, then standing contributions to the profes- took the stage. Th e jazz ensemble sion of social work, demonstrated performed “Th ree Guys,” “Th e First leadership and contributions to her Noel” and “Feliz Navidad.” community or fi eld of practice. Th e symphony band performed Rehder is being honored as part “Th e Nightmare Before Christmas” of the 100th anniversary celebra- and “Fanfare for Christmas,” direct- tion of the Anne and Henry Zarrow ed by guest conductor Arthur Bohl- School of Social Work. mann, Hooker graduate student. Th e 100 selected individuals will To end the concert the band and be honored in two main ways. Th e choirs combined to perform “Salvation fi rst includes a year-long tribute on Is Created” and “Holiday Favorites.” the school’s website that will show- For more information about the case those selected. Th is will include Northwestern music program con- a photo and short biography that will tact Longhurst at (580) 327- 8692 or be highlighted on the website. Th e [email protected] or Decker second will be at the 100th Anniver- at (580) 327-8189 or mddecker@ sary event to be held on September Kylene Rehder nwosu.edu.

38 Spotlight Schmaltz gives talk on Soviet-era letter exchanges

In the last half of 2016, Dr. Eric claimed a post offi ce until 1942,” letters were returned as a gift to fam- Schmaltz, professor of history at he explained. “Original envelopes ily in Russia.” Northwestern Oklahoma State Uni- stamped and delivered from Russia In October 2013, immigrant versity and co-executive director of the show that her relatives’ early letters Pauline (Schlegel) Lehl’s grand- endowed NWOSU Institute for Citi- arrived in Ingersoll, and later on in daughter, retired educator Ella Ma- zenship Studies, presented at a number Alva aft er she was married to her rie (Lehl) Frederick of Wichita, Kan- of conferences from coast to coast. husband, William.” sas, generously donated to Schmaltz Following discussions related Th is large body of correspon- one of only two original typed sets to national minority policies in the dences from family and friends of the entire letter collection for former Soviet Union at internation- spanned the period preceding the the expressed purpose of historical al conferences held this past sum- First World War’s outbreak to Soviet preservation. He has now complet- mer in Concord, California, and Communist dictator Joseph Stalin’s ed a digital scan of all original typed Rapid City, South Dakota, Schmaltz Great Terror. Th e preserved letters and translated manuscripts, as well presented in mid-November at the off er a glimpse into daily life during as the handful of remaining original Annual Convention of the Associa- one of the most transformative and documents such as envelopes and tion for Slavic, East European, and violent eras in modern world his- letters, for further editing as part of Eurasian Studies (ASEEES) hosted tory. Sometimes through subversive an anticipated published book com- in Washington, D.C. His paper ti- writing techniques and coded lan- pilation and related projects. tled “Letters to Pauline (Schlegel) guage to avoid offi cial censors, they “Th is collection represents one Lehl: Family related to the outside what of my larger, long-term projects,” Correspondenc- was happening inside the Schmaltz said. “It is an enormous es from Russia old country. honor and privilege to be involved to Oklahoma, Schmaltz noted that with sharing to the public this incred- 1913-1937” was part of the family story is ible family treasure that still bears wit- invited as part tied to the University of ness to major historical events nearly of a special aca- Kansas in Lawrence. one century ago and that embodies demic panel “Between 1988 and the enduring power of the human concerning early 1992, this branch of the Lehl spirit across space and time.” Soviet-era letter family in Kansas was able to During spring term and beyond, exchanges from enlist the professional ser- Schmaltz plans to present other talks Russia and the vices of Dr. Eugenia Felton, on the Lehl letter collection, includ- Soviet Union to a noted Russian linguist of ing at the Cherokee Strip Regional North America. Volga German immigrant Pau- Estonian background who Heritage Center in Enid and the Schmaltz line (Schlegel) Lehl (1893-1982) had worked for many years 2017 Annual Meeting of the Okla- has been inves- from Russia in 1913. at the university and who is homa Historical Society (OHS) held tigating a large now passed away,” he said. at the Cherokee Nation’s Hard Rock corpus of 180 handwritten letters “In 1994, the family reproduced her Hotel and Casino in Catoosa. He mailed between 1913 and 1937 from handwritten translations on type- also hopes eventually to publish his Russia’s Saratov Province in the Vol- writer for a self-publication. Around fi ndings as an article in the Society’s ga Region and elsewhere to rural In- this time, aft er the Cold War, the quarterly journal, Th e Chronicles of gersoll and Alva. family had the good fortune through Oklahoma. “Th ough now virtually forgot- a Russian pen pal to reconnect with For more information on ten, Ingersoll, which was Volga surviving relatives in the former So- Schmaltz’s upcoming talks con- German immigrant Pauline (Schle- viet Union. Aft er both sides of the tact him at (580) 327-8526 or gel) Lehl’s initial place of residence, family reunited, most of the original [email protected].

Spotlight 39 Th eatre Reunion held on Homecoming

Anyone associated with the Northwestern theatre program was welcomed and encouraged to return for Homecoming as “50 Years of Th eatre” was celebrated. Dr. Linda “Doc” Stewart served the speech and theatre program at the university for 35 years before her retirement and returned as this year’s Homecoming Pa- rade Marshal. Current director Kimberly Weast is in her 15th year of leading the program. Th e Northwestern Alumni Association provided free Homecoming t-shirts to registered theatre alumni attending the reunion. Aft er the football game, a reunion reception dinner was held in the Student Center Ballroom on the North- western campus. Guests enjoyed pizza and other items. Linda Stewart, 2016 parade Additional theatre reunion information, as well as marshal, and her entourage, discussion among several theatre alumni is still available riding through the Homecom- on the theatre Facebook page at www.facebook/nwosu- ing parade. theatre. Kimberly Weast and Linda Stewart

Past and present theatre directors, Linda Stewart and Kimberly Linda Stewart and current Castle Players members pose for a group Weast, take a few moments to talk aft er the theatre reunion. photo at the end of the theatre reunion.

Kimberly Weast visits with alums Travis Hamilton, Lisa Hamil- Many of the theatre alumni gathered in the Student Center Ball- ton and Dennis Carrell during the tours given on Homecoming. room to celebrate with Linda Stewart and Kimberly Weast

40 Spotlight First Story Walk is successful

Two Northwestern academic fest treats. Oklahoma author Tammi Sauer. programs came together to serve as Children from pre-school Th e Northwestern students were guides and readers for the fi rst Story through fi rst grade and their parents under the leadership of Dr. Kathy Walk event in Alva’s downtown Arts were encouraged to attend this fi rst- Earnest, assistant professor of Eng- and Shopping District. time event. Th e Story Walk was about lish, and Dr. Jen Oswald, assistant English education majors, as the book Mr. Duck Means Business by professor of education. well as students in a children’s literature class within the elementary education program, worked with the young readers in Alva and the area. Th is event was held in conjunction with the Graceful Arts Gallery and Studio’s October First Friday Art Walk. Th e story walk started at the Washington School gazebo, located on 7th Street across from the public library. Th e next stop was the Pocket Park at the Alva Public Library, followed by the courthouse stage as the third stop, then the fourth stop was at the “Lemon Drops” bronze at the corner of 4th and Barnes A portion of the group attending the Story Walk sponsored by the English education Streets. majors and children’s literature class walks back to the Graceful Arts Center. Th e Story Th e fi nal stop was inside the Walk centered around the book Mr. Duck Means Business by Oklahoma author Tammi Graceful Arts Center for Oktober- Sauer. Th eatre Production class work together on campus pageants Th e Th eatre Production I and II classes combined their eff orts with technical theatre staff and Castle Players to produce two pageants on campus. Th e fi rst pageant was Miss Cin- derella, held in conjunction each year with Homecoming, on Sept. 29 and 30 in the Herod Hall Th eatre. Next was the Miss Northwestern and Outstanding Teen Pageant held on Oct. 30. Students learned about running lights and audio, plus working as 2016 Miss Northwestern contestants on stage during this year’s pageant. Lighting and backstage crew members. Others set design were part of the jobs for the Th eatre Production classes, technical theatre staff worked as ushers and bouncers. and Castle Players.

Spotlight 41