FRANKLIN COLLEGE MAGAZINE | SPRING 2019

THE VOICE Broadcaster achieves career win with Indianapolis Colts. Pg. 28 RENEE KEAN ’06

2 Franklin College MAGAZINE NATURE’S CLASSROOM

With the sun shining, birds chirping, squirrels scavenging and magnolia trees blooming, spring is an enticing time to enjoy the outdoors at Franklin College. These students and their professor found the perfect spot in front of the Pulliam School of Journalism, on the west side of campus.

SPRING 2019 3 FRANKLIN COLLEGE MAGAZINE | SPRING 2019 PRESIDENT’S Volume LV, No. 2 Contributing Staff Director of Communications MESSAGE Deidra Baumgardner CONTENTS Editor Amy (Kean) VerSteeg ’96 Pulliam Fellow Shelby Mullis ’19 Director of Marketing Ann Smith Assistant Director of Marketing for Visual Dear Alumni and Friends, Communications Renee Kean ’06 Spring, as we all know, is a time of renewal and transformation in Sports Information Director nature. With lengthier daylight hours, blossoming plants and trees Ryan Thomas and visibly active wildlife, spring surrounds us with symbols of Senior Leadership promise and a fresh start. Vice President for Development and Alumni Engagement Dana Cummings My appreciation of the spring metaphor has deepened greatly Vice President and Dean of Admissions and during my four years of service as Franklin College President. I have Financial Aid observed in our college community, as in nature, how a culmination Kate Coffman of efforts, at just the right time, enables a flourish of awe-inspiring Submissions and Changes For content submissions, email aversteeg@ achievements. FranklinCollege.edu or call 317.738.8188. For address and phone changes, email recordupdates@ This spring, my heart is overflowing with gratitude for the hard work FranklinCollege.edu or call 317.738.8052. Mail faculty continue putting into our new curriculum implementation correspondence to Franklin College Magazine, Attn: Amy Kean VerSteeg, 101 Branigin Boulevard, and for the critical support staff provide. The chance to congratulate Franklin, Indiana 46131-2623.

another class of students on their graduation and the start of exciting Franklin College Magazine careers and graduate school programs also gives me tremendous pride Published three times annually. Copyright by Franklin College. and joy. Franklin College Our college life cycle moves forward with each new endeavor, every Established in 1834, Franklin College is a liberal arts college in the Indianapolis metropolitan area, new class and all of you. I am sincerely grateful for your ongoing and about 20 miles from the city’s downtown. In 1842, generous support of ideas, programs and projects that profoundly the college began admitting women, becoming the first coeducational institution in Indiana impact the people in our Franklin College community. This magazine and the seventh in the nation. Our students and issue highlights some of the remarkable outcomes for which you are alumni are self-motivated lifelong learners who relentlessly pursue the best in themselves and in responsible. Thank you for all the reasons you continue to give us to our community. celebrate, year after year. Nondiscrimination Policy Franklin College is committed to the principle and practice of equal opportunity for all its students, faculty, employees Sincerely, and applicants for admission and employment. For that reason, the college provides equal employment opportunities on the basis of merit and without regard to the individual’s race, color, religion, gender, disability, age, national origin, marital status or sexual orientation, in accordance with state and federal laws and any other characteristic protected by law. The college prohibits, forbids and will not tolerate any FRANKLIN COLLEGE PRESIDENT verbal, physical or other conduct that belittles or demeans any individual on the basis of the above-listed statuses. All Follow @PresFC on Twitter. employees, managers, supervisors and job applicants are covered by this commitment. No person or employee, no matter his or her title or position, has the authority expressed, actual, apparent or implied to discriminate against any employee of the college. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, admission to and enrollment in Franklin College, including, but not limited to, recruitment, selection, hiring, benefits, educational policies, admission policies, financial aid, scholarship and loan programs, housing athletic and other college-administered programs and activities.

On the Cover Matt Taylor ’08 stands on the Indianapolis Colts’ practice field. PHOTO BY MATT BOWEN

Franklin College MAGAZINE 4 Follow Us CONTENTS

CELEBRATING PHILANTHROPY 8 DISTANCE LEARNING 16 LIVE AND LEARN 20

AHEAD OF THE CURVE 24 ON THE RISE 34 PUPPY LOVE 36

Featured Stories

WAVE OF SUCCESS 22 Get up to speed on the 2019 HCAC champion Grizzlies’ swimming and diving program, and learn which five students recently competed in the NCAA Division III Championships.

TALK THIS WAY 26 Meet the personalities behind the voices of four sports broadcasters covering high school, college and professional leagues for radio and TV.

NO SMALL FEAT 45 Reminisce with Ric Flecker ’67, as he recounts his mother’s courageous role in helping him attend Franklin College and realize his dream of playing football.

SPRING 2019 5 CAMPAIGN GOAL EXCEEDED A public announcement on “We are extremely grateful Minar said another gener- to the many donors, includ- ous and impactful gift came May 13 let the world know that ing trustees, alumni, friends from the Elba L. and Gene Franklin College had exceeded its and organizations, who Portteus Branigin Founda- $10 million fundraising goal for have been instrumental in tion. In January, the Branigin helping us reach our goal,” Foundation challenged the the Campaign for the Sciences. said Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D., college to raise the remain- The campaign helped fund the Franklin College President. ing funds needed to reach its fundraising goal by May 1. construction and renovation “One of the most impact- If accomplished, the foun- of the new 51,000-square-foot ful was college trustee Dr. dation would provide the Franklin College Science Center Margot Lacy Eccles (HD ’02). final $225,000 to bring the The generous $2.5 million campaign across the finish on campus. financial promise and line. matching challenge she

PHOTO BY CHAD WILLIAMS made prior to her death “We are thankful for the in 2012 was a substantial Branigin Foundation’s impetus to getting the substantial gift and for campaign off the ground. challenging us to be The ripple effect that fol- diligent in reaching our lowed was game-changing, campaign goal,” said The college hosted a Science Center dedication and we are so pleased the Minar. “As impactful and ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 16. Science Center’s Lacy Labs as Dr. Eccles’ gift was in Full event coverage will be included in the will honor her memory and getting the campaign next Franklin College Magazine. contributions.” started, so was the Branigin Foundation’s challenge

6 Franklin College MAGAZINE RECORD-BREAKING GRANT

A new grant funding research on Canada Geese in urban landscapes is enabling Franklin College, Ball State University and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to collaborate.

The four-year, $250,000 grant is the largest Franklin has ever received for undergraduate student research and is administered through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act.

Each research partner will study Canada Geese in distinct urban set- tings across Central Indiana. Franklin College’s optimal location south of Indianapolis will permit on-site research in one of the Midwest’s fastest-growing cities.

Ben O’Neal, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and one of the principal and gift toward eclipsing May 2018, and the entire investigators, said, “Appropriate our goal.” facility was opened for use management of these beautiful, but in January 2019. The Science Center project contentious creatures necessitates began in February 2012, “I’m proud to be a Grizzly deliberate, evidence-based decision when the college’s board of every day, but the success making. This study will help meet that trustees announced moving of a $10 million campaign need and also offer Franklin College forward with preparations is a truly extraordinary students an opportunity to immerse for a campaign to enhance occasion,” said Dana Cum- themselves in the practical work of science programs and mings, vice president for wildlife research and management.” J facilities. In October 2016, development and alumni the board approved moving engagement. forward on the construction and renovation project, “The entire Franklin College breaking ground in May community came together 2017. Phase one was the in support of our beautiful construction of a 21,000- new Science Center, and square-foot addition to the the results are remarkable. existing science building, My heartfelt thanks go Barnes Hall, and phase to each and every person two was the renovation of who made the decision to Barnes Hall, built in 1927 support Franklin College and last renovated in 1987. students and the future of The newly constructed education with their hard- portion of the Science earned dollars. We are ever RENEE KEAN ’06 Center opened for use in grateful.” J

SPRINGSPRING 2019 2019 7 7 CelebratingPHILANTHROPY Giving society members and donors who participated in the Campaign for the Sciences were special guests at the President’s Circle Celebration, Feb. 8.

PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06 AND QUINN FITZGERALD ’20

President Thomas J. Minar, to the official dedication on Ph.D., thanked donors for their May 16. Science faculty and exceptional generosity and students were on site to highlighted how annual gifts facilitate tours, demonstrate help the college address prior- technology and share examples ity areas of need and opportu- of ongoing research projects. nity. He focused on the critical Each of the Science Center’s role of leadership gifts toward three floors offered a variety the $10 million Campaign for of hors d’oeuvres, desserts and the Sciences, and he gave a spirits. J progress update on the 51,000- square-foot Science Center, Want to become a President’s Circle member for which the college broke and join the distinguished men and women ground in May 2017. who represent the pinnacle of commitment to Franklin College? Contact Lee Ann Jourdan, After Minar led a champagne assistant vice president for alumni engagement toast in the Napolitan Student and annual giving, 317.738.8755. View the full Center, the celebration relo- Honor Roll of Donors, recognizing everyone cated to the Science Center. who made a gift of any size last fiscal year, at Donors enjoyed an exclusive FranklinCollege.edu/giving/honor-roll-of-donors. preview of the facility, prior

8 Franklin College MAGAZINE CelebratingPHILANTHROPY

SPRING 2019 9 WAYS TO SHOW 5COLLEGE PRIDE 1. Wear blue and gold on National College Colors Day, Sept. 1, 2019. Share pics on social media using #FranklinCollege, #GrizAlumni and #CollegeColorsDay.

2. Put a plate on it! Join the more than 900 Indiana motorists proudly driving home their support with Franklin College license plates. Purchase plates online at in.gov/bmv. Live outside of Indiana? Shop for license plates frames at bit.ly/2IcFc61.

3. Advocate for Franklin College. Share examples of your college experiences to help recruit future Grizzlies. Refer students online at bit.ly/2ErgKeF. Also, consider volunteering for alumni career panels, offering student internships or participating in college-sponsored networking events. Email [email protected] for details.

4. Be part of the tradition during Homecoming and Alumni Weekend, Oct. 9 – 13, 2019. Reunite with friends, attend your class reunion, get free Griz swag, eat great food, watch the football game and tailgate. Share pics on social media using #FCTradition.

5. Follow, like and share Franklin College on social media. Your influence will help build awareness, involvement and Griz pride!

10 Franklin College MAGAZINE ILLUSTRATION BY CARA WAHLERS $ 130

202 NUMBER FACULTY OF GOLD (graduates of the AND STAFF last decade) GIFTS ALUMNI DONORS

1,012TOTAL DONORS BECAUSE OF

YOUThank you for making the seventh annual #GivetoGRIZ the most successful 24-hour fundraising challenge in program history! $165,288 “It’s truly incredible to watch the difference made on our campus through philanthropy on this special day. The entire Grizzly Nation came together this year, and we are grateful,” said Dana TOTAL RAISED Cummings, vice president for develop- ment and alumni engagement.

#GivetoGRIZ benefits the Franklin Fund, which helps provide tuition assistance for qualifying students along with addressing college areas of priority need. 326 208 100% Promotion through Facebook and Twitter drove this year’s donor participation.

Donors wishing to make a gift to the Franklin Fund during the current fiscal STUDENT STUDENT ALUMNI year have until June 30. Give online at FranklinCollege.edu/give-now, call PARTICIPANTS DONORS COUNCIL 317.738.8040 or return the enclosed PARTICIPATION envelope with your gift today. J

SPRING 2019 11 REIMAGINEDCURRICULUM

Faculty and administrators have been hard at work for the past year and a half on the most comprehensive curricular reform in the college’s 185-year history. The new curriculum, the Pursuit at Franklin College, will make engaged learning an integral part of every student’s Franklin experience.

PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06 The Pursuit leverages many of the best practices already deeply embedded in the college’s liberal arts and sciences curriculum, carries them across every discipline and integrates them into all majors. In this way, the Pursuit immerses students in four years of engag- ing, cohesive, transformational experiences.

Upon earning a bachelor’s degree, students will have knowledge in their chosen disciplines as well as skills to help make them more adaptable and valuable to employers, not just now, but in the decades to come.

According to Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D., Franklin College President, the Pursuit positions graduates to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

“Throughout all of history, we can find examples of how innovative ideas have driven economies and changed the world. Some of the most inspirational innovators are from Indiana, which continues to be a springboard for thinking big.

“Hoosiers such as Colonel Eli Lilly, Madam C.J. Walker, Frank Ball and Orville Redenbacher are some of greatest examples of innovators who achieved extraordinary success because they recognized opportuni- ties, developed ideas and pursued dreams. They knew how to think, and we believe Franklin College graduates can build on their impactful legacies.”

12 Franklin College MAGAZINE The Pursuit hinges on six high-impact During the 2019 Immersive Term, the college educational practices: rolled out the Pursuit’s inaugural element, Pivot, an offering of nontraditional mini- 1. Launch: A yearlong program that helps courses that ranged from cooking creatively on a propel new students through the budget and practicing meditation to deciphering transition into college and offers fake news and maintaining a gratitude journal, empowering opportunities for social, among more than 50 other topics. CURRICULUM personal and academic growth throughout their first-year experience.

2. A relevant and responsive liberal arts “ The Pursuit, Launch experience: Specially designed courses and the Center for will help students learn to see the world through a variety of lenses and to under- Student Success are all stand how values are formulated from different perspectives. s p e c i fi c a l l y d e s i g n e d 3. Immersive, applied experiences: Learn- to provide students a ing will take place somewhere other than in a traditional classroom. The high-touch, innovative college will expand opportunities so that every student completes at least one and distinctive path internship but also so that every course students take during January’s Immersive to thrive in college.” Term (previously Winter Term) will be experience-based. KERI ELLINGTON DEAN OF STUDENT SUCCESS AND RETENTION 4. Overt opportunities to use technology: Whenever possible; both in- and out-of- “With an emphasis on lifelong learning, profes- classroom experiences will involve sional development, life skills and wellness, Pivot technology. courses are designed to teach students skills and strategies that will help them adapt and 5. Undergraduate research opportunities: flourish personally and professionally long after Over four years, students will conduct graduation,” said Keri Ellington, dean of student research of an increasingly professional success and retention. caliber, gaining the confidence and ability to pursue and answer meaningful Another key element of the Pursuit is a yearlong questions. program called Launch. It is specifically designed for new students and provides resources to 6. Cohesive professional development help with the transition into college. First-year opportunities: Every major will integrate experiences greatly impact student outcomes, customized opportunities for a student’s according to Ellington. professional development, helping forge a clear vision of the path between college “The Pursuit, Launch and the Center for Student and career. Success are all specifically designed to provide students a high-touch, innovative and distinctive “These practices characterize an approach that path to thrive in college. With equal parts rigor is intentional and unique to Franklin College. and resources, we are confident that these new The Pursuit is carefully crafted to intersect efforts will deliver an exciting, empowering liberal arts education with experience-based and inspiring first-year experience that puts all preparation for the world of work,” said Lori K. students on a successful course to graduation.” Schroeder, Ph.D., provost and dean of the college. “The Franklin faculty are fully committed to Full implementation of the Pursuit will coincide delivering a curriculum that can help students with the start of the 2019–20 academic year. J succeed in the pursuit of their individual goals.”

SPRING 2019 13 FROMLEARNINGTO

DOINGInternships are a key part of the Franklin College experience, and January — the Immersive Term — is a prime opportunity for students to intern full time for four weeks. Internships “Connor Holland’19 can help students build skill sets, w a s v e r y p e r s o n a b l e , professional connections and a professional and portfolio of work and experience, providing a springboard for entry into competent. He the workforce or graduate school. displayed excellent Data collected through an annual survey consistently indicates work ethic, 95 percent of Franklin College students are employed or attend- ing graduate school within six months of graduating. enthusiasm and For employers, hosting an intern is a great way to find promis- eagerness to learn.” ing new talent. Interns also can help lighten employee work- loads and bring new perspectives to problem solving. Want to NATALIA ULLOA discuss hiring an intern? Contact Kirk Bixler, director of career COUNSELOR, SHELBYVILLE HIGH SCHOOL development, at 317.738.8803.

PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06

Deciding to bring an intern to NYC for our most import- ant trade show of the year was a leap of faith. We had “ a 600-square-foot booth to set up and manage, 100 sales agents to train on 400 products and hundreds of custom- ers who packed our booth every day. Marena Drake ’19 won the praises of everyone. She was professional in her appearance, the way she handled customers, even her interactions with the owner of the company. It was a pleasure to have her on our team. We look forward to continuing her internship and seeing where this may lead!”

Julie Wells president, DJECO-U.S.

14 Franklin College MAGAZINE BRYCE HALE ’20 WAS A Rob Warren ’19 was THE GREAT TEAM PLAYER, EAGER TO LEARN AND DO ANYTHING ASKED. model intern for not only “ HE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING “our area office, but for our DOCUMENT OUR WEBSITES AND APPLICA- entire network of offices. TIONS. HE ALSO HELPED OUR DEVELOPER His ability to continuous- REVIEW CODE AND UPDATE FILES WITH ly push through obstacles OPTIMIZED IMAGES, WHICH HELPED INCREASE and work harder each day OUR SITES’ PAGE SPEEDS. I WAS REALLY to reach his goals was IMPRESSED WITH THE WAY HE TACKLED exemplary. He has set the OUR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INVENTORY standard for what we will PROJECT AND DIGITAL DASHBOARDS.” expect each of our college interns to strive.” JUSTIN HART MARKETING DIRECTOR, Adam K. Ellis CHRISTY VENTURES managing director, Northwestern Mutual

IT WAS A TRUE PLEASURE HAVING CHELSEY ARVIN ’19 IN THE LAB. SHE IS A BRIGHT STUDENT WITH THE PASSION AND DRIVE TO “SUCCEED. CHELSEY GAINED EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE IN TISSUE CULTURE TECHNIQUES, TREATMENT OF CELLS WITH DRUGS AND ENDPOINT ANALYSIS FOR VIABILITY AND ATP CONTENT. SHE WORKED WITH BOTH NEURONAL AND CARDIAC INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS EVALUATING FUNCTIONAL ENDPOINTS, LIKE ELECTRICAL CONDUCTANCE.”

THOMAS K. BAKER ’91 RESEARCH SCIENTIST, ELI LILLY AND CO.

SPRING 2019 15 Distancelearning The best way to develop a truly global perspective is to engage with the world.

The college offers a variety about and willing to collabor- of faculty-led Immersive ate with international Term study-away courses colleagues. Individuals with for students every year. The global perspective also may three-week courses, offered in be more compelled to help January, vary in location but address complex issues related consistently share the goal of to world financial systems helping students learn to better and poverty, religious conflict understand the world’s inter- and persecution, and the dependence and complexities. environment and sustainable agriculture. “These courses deepen learning by connecting the classroom “Travel helps empower stu- to the broader world. They dents for many possibilities,” give students the chance to said Cataldi. immerse, investigate and explore global issues they The 2019 international courses have studied but perhaps have enabled students to volunteer not experienced firsthand or with the Special Olympics for which they have a limited in Costa Rica, delve into the frame of reference,” said Jenny culinary culture and lan- (Piland) Cataldi ’05, office of guage of France, work on global education director. a fair trade coffee farm in Guatemala and see how art The benefits of Immersive therapy is helping people in In the Normandy region of France, Danielle Term travel are twofold. In the Uganda work to overcome Nuckols ’19 took this photo of a souvenir coin immediate, students may be wounds caused by poverty, commemorating the 75th anniversary of D-Day. The nickname refers to June 6, 1944, during inspired to take responsible British colonialism and years World War II, when American, British and action such as helping raise of guerilla warfare. A domes- Canadian forces landed on five beaches in awareness of issues or reach- tic immersive course took France, embarking on a two-month battle that resulted in the liberation of Western Europe from ing out to policymakers. Over students to New York City to Nazi Germany’s control. the long term, students with participate in the Model U.N. global travel experience may While on safari in Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park, Kylee Carr ’20 spotted an elephant be more valuable to employ- Here, we share some photos by students who captured the in the marsh. In the background, native women ers and graduate schools who carry tall grasses back to their village, possibly to want individuals confident essence of global learning. J make huts.

16 Franklin College MAGAZINE “Travel helps empower students for many possibilities.” learning JENNY (PILAND) CATALDI ’05 Quinn Fitzgerald ’20 and classmates worked with small-holder coffee farmers and cooperatives in Guatemala. Several farmers welcomed the students into their homes for lunch. On one occasion, Fitzgerald met Esmeralda, a farmer’s granddaughter. She was shy but captivated by the camera, Fitzgerald said, “This photo of her is one of my favorites from the entire trip.”

SPRING 2019 17 BUZZ WORTHY The fund recognizes three influential professors NATIONAL ACADEMIC whose combined teaching careers represent a RECOGNITION century of mathematics excellence at Franklin College, Dwight F. Heath ’43, Richard “Dick” Park The American Mathematical Society (AMS) (HD ’02), Ph.D., and Dan Callon ’77, Ph.D. bestowed the 2019 Award for an Exemplary Program or Achievement in a Mathematics The fund’s annual proceeds will support Department to Franklin College on April 8. engaged-learning activities, including student T. Christine (Chris) Stevens, Ph.D., AMS associate participation in undergraduate research, intern- executive director for meetings and professional ships and professional conferences. Recipients services, made the presentation on campus. will be selected by mathematics faculty.

“The undergraduate program offered at Franklin College has unique curricular and co-curricular aspects. It considers the student holistically and PI BETA PHI CREATES FUND is intentional, carefully planned and regularly Melissa Beer ’19, who double majors in applied assessed and revised,” cited the AMS in its award mathematics and quantitative analysis, and notification letter. Brianna Hutton ’19, who majors in exercise science, are the inaugural recipients of gifts Franklin’s faculty were applauded for following from the IN Alpha Pi Beta Phi 125th Anniversary well-defined programmatic goals and a model for Award Fund. student success. The AMS acknowledged that the Mathematical Association of America has invited The fund, commemorating the chapter’s the faculty to present at two previous MathFest founding at Franklin College on Jan. 16, 1888, conferences, and they will present, again, this is designated to assist collegians with their summer. educational expenses. More than 50 alumnae and friends have contributed to the fund thus Mathematics professor Dan Callon ’77, Ph.D., said far, raising more than $19,000. Donations are still the AMS award is a reflection of the department’s welcome to the active fund, which began in culture “developed through the investment of 2013, coinciding with the chapter’s 125th time, talent and energy of our wonderful current anniversary celebration. and emeritus faculty and staff, outstanding students, highly-involved alumni, welcoming Eligible recipients must be initiated Pi Beta Phi community partners and generous donors.” 1 members, who are in good standing with the college and uphold the fraternity’s core values. Jessica (Lillpop) Mahoney ’96, chapter alumna MATHEMATICS FUND and current collegiate adviser, and Taylor Dwyer, Franklin College director of student involvement Franklin College Trustee and Board Chair and Greek life, chose the recipients, who were Emerita Christi S. Fields ’74 (HD ’19) with her recognized in February. Future recipients will spouse, Jack Borgerding, made a lead gift of be recognized at the annual Homecoming and $50,000 establishing and endowing the Legacy Alumni Weekend Pi Beta Phi Breakfast. 2 Fund in Mathematics. Additional gifts from other donors, alumni and friends helped increase the fund to $100,000.

18 Franklin College MAGAZINE BUZZ WORTHY PHOTOS BY RENEE KEAN ’06, VIKTORIA ROCK ’20 AND LINDA STRIGGO

3 1 In the foreground are emeritus mathematics professor Richard “Dick” Park (HD ’02), Ph.D., associate professor Justin Gash, Ph.D., and AMS associate executive director for meetings and professional services T. Christine (Chris) Stevens, Ph.D. In the background are emerita professor Bonnie Pribush, professor John Boardman, Ph.D., lecturer Angie (Hughes) Walls ’88, associate professor Paul Fonstad, Ph.D., associate professor Stacy Hoehn, Ph.D., emerita professor Karen Wade, professor Dan Callon ’77, Ph.D., trustee Christi Fields ’74 (HD ’19) and president Thomas J. Minar, Ph.D.

ART MUSEUM EXHIBIT

A painting by David Cunningham, associate professor of art, is included in the 87th annual juried exhibition of Indiana artists at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields through June 1. His painting shows how 4 nature has transformed industrial waste from the ’50s into beautiful stones frequently found along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Cunningham’s artwork has earned several awards of professional excellence and been displayed at galleries and museums across the United States, and at the Indianapolis International Airport. 3

BOOK AWARD

David Carlson, professor of philosophy and religion, earned a Bronze in the 21st annual Independent Publisher Book Awards contest for Enter by the Narrow Gate. It is the first novel 2 in Carlson’s mystery-thriller series following Jessica (Lillpop) Mahoney ’96, Melissa Beer ’19, Brianna Hutton ’19 Lt. Christopher Worthy and his friend, Greek and Taylor Dwyer orthodox priest Father Nicholas Fortis, as they investigate unexplained murders. Learn more at davidccarlson.net. 4 J

Source: UNOS.org SPRING 2019 19 and Learn

LiveBy Shelby Mullis ‘19, Pulliam Fellow Age is no obstacle to learning for Joyce Duvall ’60 and Gene Critchfield, “seniors” at Franklin College.

After decades of giving to others opportunity. The courses, which do through teaching, counseling, minis- not provide college credit, are offered try and coaching, the two are back in at a discount. the classroom; only this time, they are “We’re both physically quite healthy, the students. “We’re not ready to sit and probably our brains are the around and do busy work. We want most important part of who we are, to be intellectually challenged. That’s to us, our brains and our hearts,” important to us,” Duvall said. Critchfield said. “When people ask, Critchfield, 88, and Duvall, 84, lifelong ‘Why are you doing this?’ my first learners, reside two miles from the reaction is, ‘Why not?’ Life is interest- college at Otterbein Franklin Senior ing, and life is good. We want to keep Life Community, and when they on experiencing it and learning all discovered they could audit courses that we can.” for self-enrichment, they took the

20 Franklin College MAGAZINE PHOTOS BY BRYAN WELLS ’19 They recently were enrolled in two courses, one on gender and sexuality and the other on nonprofits. They previously audited a class on gerontol- ogy. Critchfield and Duvall enjoy the campus community.

“I’m fascinated by the students, how bright they are and how interested they seem,” Critchfield said. “It’s a family-like environment. I’ve never experienced any of that in previous schooling.”

Critchfield graduated from Ball State University in 1954, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. He later went on to pursue additional degrees in theology and counseling at Garrett Seminary and Indiana University.

Duvall graduated from Franklin College 59 years ago with a bachelor’s degree in music education. She notices stark differences between what the college looked like then compared to now.

“It’s twice as big,” she said, referencing “I suppose that’s the main thing we the number of buildings as well as have in common. We share values. “Life is the enrollment. “However, the same Both of us are very people-oriented.” interesting, standards seem to exist. There are high academic standards, which I really “Both of us have always believed in and life is admire, and a family-like atmosphere.” the power of knowledge, and of the human being,” Critchfield added. good. We Critchfield and Duvall share an admira- “There’s some drive in each of us to tion for the college’s uniqueness, some- be of service to other people, and you want to thing that emulates the distinctiveness can’t do that if you don’t have any- of their 34-year marriage. thing to offer. Of course, all of us do keep on have something to offer.” They met in 1978 when Critchfield experiencing offered Duvall a job with Indianapolis The two agreed that returning to Public Schools’ adult-education pro- college has been extremely beneficial it and gram. Two years later, the tables turned for their well-being. learning all and Duvall asked Critchfield to work with her. They say the rest is history. “It’s such a healthy thing for the elderly,” Duvall said. “We’ve educated that we can.” “I was fascinated by her energy and others and helped others to see their GENE CRITCHFIELD attracted to her immediately because potential for lifelong learning. That’s she has a positive attitude about life,” been at the core of everything we’ve Critchfield said. done.” J

Duvall agreed.

SPRING 2019 21 Wave of SUCCESS No pool, no problem. When you have a championship mentality, anything is possible. The Grizzlies’ swimming and diving program is proof of that.

The program, guided by founding coach Andrew “Andy” Hendricks, capped off the most successful season in its 10-year history, with five women advancing in March to the 2019 NCAA Division III Championships in Greens- boro, North Carolina.

Teammates Ashley Snoke ’21, Jacqueline Richard ’21 and Courtnee Coffman ’21 brought home honor- able mention All-American honors from the four-day competition. Their 1:35.76-finish in the 200-freestyle relay broke both the Grizzlies’ program and Heartland Collegiate Athletic Confer- ence (HCAC) records and earned 16th place overall. Teammate Brynna Sentel ’21 joined them in the relay and added an individual All-American honorable mention nod in the 100-backstroke. Her finish time of 56.27 earned 12th place overall.

Brynna Sentel ’21 and Jacqueline Richard ’21 (in back) with teammates Ashley Snoke ’21 and Courtnee Coffman ’21

22 Franklin College MAGAZINE PHOTOS BY CATHERINE WARREN SUCCESS

Ashley Snoke ’21 competes in the 100-breaststroke.

Coffman, Snoke and with a competitive, yet With such achievements, ant aspects of their lives,” Jessica Halsmer ’21 also humble spirit.” the program’s reputation Hendricks said. competed individually in has grown nationally, and Since the college does not Hendricks previously the 50- and 100-freestyle, beyond. One current team have a pool, the Grizzlies served as an adjunct 100- and 200-backstroke and member is a native of hold their practices and instructor of mathematics 100-breaststroke. In total, Australia. Previous members competitions at Franklin at Franklin College, and he the five women qualified have been from as far away Community Middle School, currently is coordinator of in 13 events and came as Switzerland, Ukraine and approximately one mile research for institutional away as the most decorat- Hawaii. ed swimmers in college from campus. Still, the analytics. His dedication as program history, with five Grizzlies have consistently Artur Schneider ’17 was the a coach is widely known. All-American honors and outperformed competitors first-ever Grizzly to qualify He previously was named three Scholar All-American at the conference level. for the NCAA Division III the NCAA Liberal Arts honors. The 200-freestyle Prior to formation of the Championships in 2015. Women’s Coach of the relay, 400-freestyle relay and HCAC Swimming and He qualified again in Year, the NCAA Liberal Arts 400-medley relay were all Diving Championships in 2016 and 2017, when Regina Men’s Coach of the Year new program records and 2018, the men’s team had Solik ’17 also qualified. three times and the HCAC HCAC records. won five consecutive NCAA Men’s Coach of the Year this Liberal Arts Championships “The program’s success is season, upon the teams’ “Every time these women while the women had won contingent on helping the dual titles. J took to the pool they repre- two consecutively. After student-athletes set goals, sented Franklin College in a a transition to the HCAC evolve and get better. We way that should make every this year, the men’s and know that success in the Grizzly proud,” Hendricks women’s teams both won pool helps instill skills and said. “They consistently respective championships discipline that support performed at a high level, in February. success in other import-

SPRING 2019 23 AHEAD OF THE

CURVEBy Quinn Fitzgerald ’20, Pulliam Fellow, and Shelby Mullis ’19, Pulliam Fellow A former three-sport Now, Fifer stands on the sidelines. It’s his job. As an athletic trainer for the Arizo- na Diamondbacks Major League Baseball team, he has a different perspective of high school athlete the action, but his goal remains the same. and four-year baseball “As an athlete, you think and worry about the pitcher you’re facing or whether player at Augustana you’re going to get any hits,” Fifer said. “As an athletic trainer, you’re still doing College in Rock Island, everything you can to win, just in a different way. Illinois, Daniel Fifer “You’re creating an environment for the athletes in your care to go out and suc- (MSAT ’18) was the one ceed. Your success is watching those athletes perform at their best.” to watch on the field. Franklin College’s Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) program helped He ran the bases. prepare Fifer for the career he has today. He is one of six students who graduated on May 19, 2018, cementing a legacy as the first-ever students to earn master’s He scored the points. degrees from the institution since its founding 185 years ago.

Implemented in July 2016, the MSAT program is a comprehensive curriculum designed to integrate formal and rigorous classroom instruction with clinical PHOTOS BY SARAH SACHS/ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

24 Franklin College MAGAZINE educational experiences in a variety of summer session followed by work because they give students full days to allied health-care settings. across the span of two school years. immerse in health-care delivery side by side with professionals already “We’re a professional-level athletic Director of graduate studies in health established in their fields. training program, which means we sciences, Kathy Remsburg, ATC, said prepare students to take the board of Franklin created its program when Austin said the MSAT program is certification exam so they can prac- the accrediting body for athletic unique because it focuses heavily on tice as athletic trainers,” said program education issued a new mandate evidence-based practice, which means director Jennifer Austin, Ph.D., LAT, ATC. requiring all athletic training majors searching for information to support CURVE to obtain a master’s degree. She said

“It’s different at Franklin. It’s not just about getting good grades. It’s about students developing personally and professionally into good and well-rounded people.” DANIEL FIFER (MSAT ’18)

“We focus on the prevention and man- by 2022 undergraduate programs in what students are doing in their agement of injuries for individuals athletic training will cease to exist. clinical practice. who are physically active.” “Knowing this was coming down the “We’re not just using traditional meth- The MSAT program offers two options, pipeline, I proposed a curriculum to ods that have been done over and over a 3+2 program and a two-year post- start the MSAT program at Franklin again,” Austin said. “We’re actually baccalaureate program. College,” Remsburg said. backing up what we’re doing with evidence.” The 3+2 route allows undergraduate The MSAT program put Franklin students to complete the program ahead of the curve. Students also focus on building their prerequisites and bachelor’s degree soft skills such as communication, “We’ve already graduated master’s requirements before stepping into the critical thinking, research and applica- students, although the program master’s program during their fourth tion, all pillars of Franklin’s liberal arts requirement is still several years year. and sciences education. away,” she said. “While some other The two-year program is for students schools are just getting started, we’ve From Fifer’s perspective, what set with a bachelor’s degree who have been established and able to fine tune Franklin’s MSAT program apart from already completed the required the details.” other options was the people. prerequisite courses for the program. Fifer said his MSAT program experi- “The professors and the community It’s a common track for college grad- ence included spending two days a we had behind us were the best uates who want to change paths or week in a classroom environment and I’ve seen,” Fifer said. “It’s different those who did not have time to major three days completing clinical work in at Franklin. It’s not just about in athletic training during their under- a variety of health-care settings. getting good grades. It’s about graduate career. students developing personally Remsburg said the clinical rotations Regardless of the option, coursework and professionally into good and are a key part of the MSAT program for the program is completed over one well-rounded people.” J

SPRING 2019 25 PHOTO COURTESY OF PURDUE UNIVERSITY

talkTHISBy Amy (Kean) VerSteeg ’96, Editor WAY

Boom baby, holy cow and booyah are catchphrases embedded into pop culture, thanks to sports broadcasters Slick Leonard, Harry Caray and Stuart Scott, but it took more than a distinctive voice to cement their legacies.

The fact is when it comes to watching or listening to our favorite sports teams, the voice on the mic is a significant part of the experience. We expect broadcasters to share illuminating backstories about athletes and coaches, to dispense fascinating facts from sports history and, of course, to keep us updated on the live-game action.

Sports broadcasters can help us feel like we are part of the action, whether we are calling shots from our couch at home, sitting on a barstool among friends or reliving highlights at a postgame tailgate. Even when we disagree with what they say, the best ones compel us to listen. They are masters of their craft.

Here, we recognize four broadcasters for their past, present and future roles. PHOTO COURTESY EMMIS COMMUNICATIONS

26 Franklin College MAGAZINE FLASHBACK

At the mic, Joseph “Joe” F. series, three Super Bowls Journalism’s Elmer Davis McConnell ’62 was one of for the Minnesota Vikings, Award. The awards were the greats. an American Basketball As- a fitting tribute for a man sociation championship for whose career in sports Prior to his death in April the Indiana Pacers and broadcasting began while of 2018, he called the action Purdue’s 2000 Big Ten he was a student, calling for 23 years in the National championship in football Grizzlies’ basketball games. Football League, including a and victory at the Rose talk tenure with the Indianapo- Bowl. He also had stints McConnell also was an lis Colts, and he announced broadcasting Major League inductee of the Indiana games for 15 years at Baseball, professional golf, Broadcaster Pioneers Hall Purdue University, where he boxing and hockey. of Fame, a five-time Asso- was the voice of the Boiler- ciated Press/United Press makers’ football program. In recognition of McCon- International Play-by-Play nell’s distinguished career, Sportscaster of the Year and In all, his sports broad- Franklin College inducted an Indiana Sportscaster of casting career spanned 46 him into the Athletic Hall the Year in 2000. He won years and covered dozens of Fame as a friend in 2010. Illinois Sportscaster of the of significant chapters in Less than one year later, Year in 1981. J sports history, including he received the Franklin five NBA championship College Pulliam School of

CALLING THE SHOTS The name Bob Lovell ’73 is synonymous with “Indiana Lovell’s passion for the game and knowledge of Hoosier Sports Talk,” a radio program covering the Hoosier state’s sports history have helped him earn many career accolades, high school and college basketball scene as well as including Indiana Sportscaster of the Year. He also is an professional teams. Since its launch in 1994, the program inductee of the Indiana Sportswriters and Sportscasters has spread to nearly 40 affiliate stations statewide, but Hall of Fame. Lovell’s involvement in sports began decades ago, before he was ever a broadcaster. In 2018, he earned the Indiana Pacers Silver Medal Award, an annual honor bestowed to a living person for outstand- Lovell was an all-conference basketball player at Plain- ing contributions to Indiana high school basketball in a field (Ind.) High School prior to attending Franklin College, capacity other than playing or coaching. Recipients of the where he became a three-year letterman in basketball and a Silver Medal subsequently become Indiana Basketball Hall four-year letterman in baseball. He later became head coach of Fame inductees. Lovell holds other honors from the Indi- of two sports at his college alma mater, running the bas- ana Basketball Coaches Association, Indiana Football Coach- ketball and baseball programs from 1977–81. After that, he es Association and Indiana High School Athletic Association. was athletic director and head coach at Indiana University- Purdue University Indianapolis from 1982-94. His teams Lovell said, “‘Indiana Sports Talk’ has allowed me to contin- won 270 games and made four national tournament appear- ue involvement in sports, and I feel blessed to have had two ances. He then served as senior associate commissioner different careers that have been sports-related. The show is for the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I a very important part of high school and college fans’ week- Horizon League for seven years. end experience, and I am proud to be a part of it.” J

SPRING 2019 27 FROM BASEMENT TO BOOTH How Matt Taylor ’08 made his way from hosting an imaginary rock radio station in his parents’ basement to calling plays for the Indianapolis Colts in the announcer’s booth at Lucas Oil Stadium is not a fairy tale, but it is his dream come true.

“I was blessed in the sense could continue playing Thomas Fluty ’07, also a that I knew early on what I the game he loved most — broadcast journalism major, wanted to do as a career. I football — while pursuing a as a co-host. liked the concept of hearing degree in broadcast journal- somebody come out of a ism. Franklin College was “We wanted to DJ people speaker. I was fascinated the right fit. into the start of the week- with it. My first love was end so we came up with radio,” Taylor said. “I remember talking as a a rock show we called the freshman to Ann Barton ‘Friday Night Fiasco.’ We Some of his earliest child- (Pulliam School of Journal- had a blast, and the show hood memories include ism Assistant Director) three became somewhat popular. spinning his dad’s records weeks before classes started It started out as a 7 to 9 on the stereo and pre- to see how soon I could get show, expanded to 11, then tending to be a DJ. Family involved in the college radio to midnight.” photos show Taylor stag- station (WFCI),” he recalled. ing a racecar track as the Taylor also began traveling backdrop to his version of At that time, the station’s with the men’s and wom- an Indianapolis 500 report, format was alternative rock, en’s basketball teams and and he vividly can recount a genre he loathed. the baseball team, providing fashioning flashlights into play-by-play radio coverage “Being as passionate as I strobe lights to imitate the of their away games. was about radio, the format start of a Pacers’ basketball didn’t really matter. I was “As I got better, the more I game at the former Market more concerned about liked it, and the more seri- Square Arena. taking full advantage of the ous I got about it. I treated “My parents will tell you resources. I spent a lot of those games like I was that growing up I had the my free time in the studio, calling the Super Bowl.” biggest imagination you figuring out how to edit, As a starting linebacker for could find.” and run a board. I remem- ber pushing buttons just to the Grizzlies’ football team, When Taylor was not see what magic they could Taylor could not do dou- talking about sports, he do. WFCI is where I cut my ble duty as a play-by-play was playing them. He was teeth behind the mic.” announcer, but he made a three-sport athlete at sure the broadcast team’s Indianapolis’ Roncalli High After building some confi- equipment was set up in School, and he was eager dence in his skills, Taylor the press box prior to each to find a college where he recruited football teammate game. Taylor also launched

28 Franklin College MAGAZINE MATT BOWEN a Franklin College coaches’ radio program.

“I tried to model it after Division I and pro-ball shows, half an hour of dialogue with coach inter- views and players as special guests. Outside of the players’ parents and friends, there wasn’t much of an au- dience, but I didn’t care. For me, it was all about learning how to formulate a show. I was ambitious, and Frank- lin gave me the opportunity to explore.”

Taylor said division head and professor of journal- ism Joel Cramer was instrumental.

“He gave me a really long leash, and he didn’t squash any ideas. He helped and gave advice without inhibiting me, and that meant a lot. Everything I “Our number one goal did in college radio poured gasoline on the fire that is always to make a made broadcast the career I wanted to do.” broadcast the best

Taylor also had intern- possible for Colts’ fans ships with ESPN 950 AM, where he edited shows and to enhance their and with WFBQ 94.7, where he worked in promotions game-day experience.” with his childhood idol and MATT TAYLOR ’08 family friend, Jimmy “Mad Dog” Matis.

After Taylor graduated from college, he faced the reali- ties of entering a highly competitive field. Early in his career, he worked at Emmis Communications in Indianapolis, where he an- swered phones for “Indiana Sports Talk,” a radio show hosted by Bob Lovell ’73.

SPRING 2019 29 “I remember having to eventually led to an offer put on my plate,” said Taylor. the broadcast, was squeez- justify to my buddies why I from the Indianapolis Colts. ing in a crash course on the couldn’t go out on a Friday In 2012, he became manager You could say his plate Ravens.” night. I had a job to do, of radio production and, began to runneth over answering phones and until recently, has mostly in August 2018, when the Taylor spent hours memoriz- writing down scores as the worked behind the scenes team’s longtime announcer, ing facts about the Ravens’ high schools called them to ensure every broadcast Bob Lamey, resigned after units, coaching staff, team in. It wasn’t glamorous, reaches the more than 50 reportedly using a racial slur history and achievements, but it led me to producing radio affiliates who help off the air. taking notes and mentally a drive-time show, then to keep the Colts’ fans engaged preparing for a game that The Colts had a preseason doing play-by-play, then to in the action. he said “went off well.” Monday night football covering state champion- game scheduled against the Executives agreed and soon ships and up, up the ladder “Anything you hear during Baltimore Ravens less than after named Taylor interim I went.” the Colts’ programming coming through your 48 hours later, and the exec- announcer, kicking off what Since then, there has not speaker has my DNA all over utives counted on Taylor to essentially became his five- been much time for looking it, whether I wrote it, said it transition smoothly into the month audition. back, but Taylor has learned or produced it,” Taylor said. announcer’s chair. “I had some sleepless nights, some valuable lessons. On occasion, he has segued “I understood the gravity trying to get inside other “The best career advice I into visual media, hosting of the situation, that I’d be people’s heads. I wondered can offer is don’t say no the Colts’ web shows and TV doing a job that only 31 if they liked what I was to anything; it’s what has programs. He also has been other people have in the doing or if I should be doing helped me the most. You a sideline reporter during NFL, but I had a great anything differently. never know when an open game-day radio broadcasts baseline of experience from “I never wanted to take window might lead to a and has done play-by-play being with the Colts’ organi- the opportunity for grant- door you can bust down for announcing for past pre- zation for so many years. ed, but there finally was a bigger opportunity.” season games on TV. “The biggest difference a point where I had to All of Taylor’s notable work “The longer I’ve been with doing the play-by-play com- have an internal conver- at Emmis Communications the Colts, the more I’ve had pared to doing other parts of sation with myself: ‘You’re

It’s a long road from Indiana to California, but one Brandon Barger ’21 hopes to travel. He wants to announce GOING soccer matches for the Summer Olympics when the games return to Los Angeles in 2028. In pursuit of his dream, he’s majoring in multimedia journalism and building a PRO well-rounded skillset. By Daily Journal of Johnson County “In my major we study photography, videography, news- Reprinted with permission. paper writing and broadcast writing,” said Barger, a graduate of Indian Creek High School in Trafalgar, Indiana.

The aspiring professional sports broadcaster also is gaining valuable experience at local games. He announces football, girls’ and boys’ basketball, softball and base- ball for his high school alma mater. That’s where Butch Zike ’72, former head coach for the Grizzlies’ softball team, heard Barger call a game, liked his style and asked if he

30 Franklin College MAGAZINE qualified to do this. Live in “Even though I couldn’t say been my driving force. It’s colleagues for helping him faith, not fear. Be yourself. anything on the air, that day why I took the job with the balance the duties. Do your best. Hopefully, this was a lot of fun on so many Colts. This opportunity is “We have a great broadcast is destined to be.’” levels. The Colts won their why I stayed for so long.” lineup and infrastructure. first playoff in three years The view from the an- Both are why we can adapt Preparation and persistence (21 – 7), and I was feeling nouncer’s booth at Lucas Oil on the fly. I’m really proud paid. In early January 2019, more like myself because a Stadium is one Taylor savors, of how we’ve been able to the Colts offered Taylor lot of trepidation about the even amid chaos. pull off some new things the full-time play-by-play future was gone.” announcer’s position. without a hitch but also “Play-by-play announcing is Twelve days later, they how we cut our losses when like a game of chess in your “I got the offer on a Friday publicly announced Taylor’s something isn’t working.” head. You have to talk, and morning, one day before new position as the full- formulate and finish your Most important to Taylor is the Colts were flying out time “Voice of the Colts.” to play the Houston Texans thoughts while all these what the fans think. in an AFC wild-card game. “It was one of the top five other voices are coming “I’ve stepped into a role the I was jumping out of my greatest days of my life! It’s through your headset. same guy had for 34 years. skin with excitement, but not in my nature to crave You’re getting updates from Inevitably, some people I also remember thinking, the spotlight, but I was so a spotter, anticipating when have made comparisons. ‘OK, you have to get on the grateful for all the support to break for a commercial That’s just human nature. As plane and get back to work. and for everybody who and trying to set up your fans get used to the chang- You still have to prove your reached out to me.” color guy, all at once. Plus, es, I’d like to think we’re worth every single day.’” you’re following the game Taylor realizes he has and keeping fans informed. building something special. Taylor told his spouse and reached the peak of a career There’s a lot to compartmen- “Our number one goal is immediate family, but a climb that began decades talize and manage.” always to make a broad- public announcement was ago, in the basement. cast the best possible for on hold until end of the Taylor remains manager of the Colts’ fans and to season. His secret made “Of all the things I can do in radio production in addi- enhance their game-day announcing the wild-card radio, I feel like play-by-play tion to the role of play-by- experience.” J game extra exciting. is my biggest strength. It’s play announcer. He credits QUINN FITZGERALD ’20 would be interested in announcing college games. Since then, Behrens Softball Field has been Barger’s training ground.

“Every time I go into a game it’s to get better. As an announcer, you’re not there to be the focal point. You’re there to enhance the game. Sometimes I take pieces of what I hear from other announcers and adapt it to my own style,” Barger said.

After graduating from college, Barger wants to work at a TV or radio station. He’s also considered graduate school, where he could possibly announce Division I soccer or hockey, his favorite sports. In the meantime, he’ll keep practicing in preparation of a golden opportunity at the Olympics. J

SPRING 2019 31 Metzel is a partner at Taft Stettinius & Hollister, a law firm employing more than 470 attorneys at 10 offices across America. She has more than 20 years of prac- tice experience, specializing in complex commercial litigation and representing corporate and individual clients. She earned her law degree from the Indiana University Robert H. McK- inney School of Law. Her honors include serving as president of the Indiana State Bar Association in 2018 LIST and as an appointed mem- ber of the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commis- MAKERSBy Amy (Kean) VerSteeg ’96, Editor sion in 2011. She is currently the board chair for Girls Inc. Since 1996, the Indianapolis Business Journal has presented the Women of Influence program, recognizing those who have risen to the highest levels in business, the arts and community/ public service across Central Indiana. The 2018 honorees, announced in November, included Andi M. Metzel ’91 SUBMITTED PHOTO and Deana (Baker) Haworth ’99.

Through their professional and philanthropic leadership, these women of influence are building legacies in their industries while helping others thrive to their fullest potential. Here, we present five more things you should Deanna (Baker) Haworth ’99 know about each of them.

Haworth began her career as a public relations spe- cialist at Hirons integrated communications agency and immediately assumed an upward trajectory, as she served in various account leadership roles. Hirons

32 Franklin College MAGAZINE of Greater Indianapolis. In we made a strategic deci- n “At all stages of my her words . . . sion to collectively join our personal and professional existing practices with Taft, life, I have taken inven- n “Two goals consumed me to help continue growing tory of my priorities. If I early in my career, paying our platform in Indianapo- have become indifferent off my law school student lis. Taft invests in the com- or realize my expectations loans and becoming a munity and has the kind of are not being met, I try partner before I was 40. I thoughtful and progressive not to be afraid to refocus SUBMITTED PHOTO accomplished both and — at mindset I value. I believe and make changes that may least then — felt like I had that this turning point in become necessary.” ‘made it.’ What I know today my career path is just the is that I am always develop- beginning.” n “My advice to young ing my skills, learning and women is to be genuine and becoming a better version n “My mother is my rock. willing to evolve. Trying Andi M. Metzel ’91 of myself, and that it is not She is my best cheerleader too hard to be perfect or such a bad thing to be a and worst critic. She has to be something you are work in progress. I am still motivated and inspired me not distracts your focus ‘making it.’” and taught me how to be and deprives you of the strong and yet stay kind. It energy you need to give n “Spring 2018 was a big is not always easy to push 100 percent.” J change for me and for many yourself — that is why they of my colleagues because invented mothers!”

promoted the 18-year n “I would not be where I philanthropy, life sciences, result is our Rural Reach agency veteran to chief op- am today without the men- education and faith-based program. By combining erating officer in 2018. In the torship of my colleagues, communities). We garnered Hirons’ industry expertise role, she manages business Tom Hirons (founder, board 85 percent voter approval and our team’s rural life development and strate- chair) and Jim Parham (pres- for a $750 million refer- experience, we will help gic planning operations ident, CEO). While Tom has endum during one of the companies, organizations while continuing to serve showed me how to harness worst recessions in U.S. and government agencies as senior adviser on key my passions to lead change, history. It was a powerful communicate to the rural accounts. Haworth was a Jim has taught me that no experience that opened poor through a unique first-generation college grad- matter how hard a situa- my mind to the infinite matrix of strategies and uate, earning her bachelor’s tion, proper communication possibilities of what can tactics.” degree in public relations can make a huge difference. be accomplished given n “My best advice for young at Franklin and subse- I am truly thankful to work effective public outreach women is to embrace quently her master’s degree for such strong leaders.” and education.” their intelligence, abilities at Ball State University. n n “I was born and raised and leadership potential. In her words . . . “My involvement with the Wishard Hospital (India- in rural southern Indiana Every single woman has n “In many ways, I feel as napolis) referendum is one (Stinesville). As my career the potential to be the next though I haven’t begun to of several career turning progressed, I noticed the great CEO, entrepreneur reach my full potential. My points. It was both massive void in public outreach to and venture capitalist. The personality doesn’t allow for in size (200+ community the people who live in areas opportunity is there, and a ‘sit back’ approach, so I am meetings, presentations, that mirror my hometown, you deserve it just as much always recognizing things public events) and outreach and I was very determined as anyone else.” J that need accomplished.” (government, business, to tackle the problem. The

SPRING 2019 33 On the

RISE By Shelby Mullis ’19, Pulliam Fellow You might say the planets aligned to help Ian Mullen ’16 find his career niche working for world-renowned astrophysicist and pop culture icon Neil deGrasse Tyson.

During his sophomore year Currently, Mullen is the also recently completed of college, Mullen stumbled social media assistant and studies at Harold Ramis upon an Internet video of social media channel man- Film School – The Second Tyson explaining the link ager for the StarTalk Podcast City. It was the first improvi- between stars and humans, Network, which includes sational theatre established and it changed the way he “StarTalk Radio,” “StarTalk in the United States and is looked at the universe. All-Stars” and “Playing with the only film school focused Science.” Mullen writes entirely on comedy. “It blew my mind because episode copy and blog posts it presented something so for all the programs. He also “I always wanted to come complex in a way that was writes social media posts to Chicago and get my start understandable.” and designs graphics for the in the improv-film world latter program, which focus- because it’s the proving The video led Mullen to es on the intersectionality ground,” said the Ohio discover Tyson’s “StarTalk between sports and science. native. Radio,” a podcast about space, science and popular “I like working for a com- He recently made an culture. After that, he was pany that’s doing a good independent film called hooked on the podcast and thing,” he said. “They’re “Masterpiece,” which he is the idea of interning for the putting science and circulating to festivals for production company, which education out into the screening consideration. he succeeded in doing in world, where people can Because he works remotely the summer of 2015. easily ingest it and under- and reports to the “StarTalk” stand it in a fun, friendly, After earning his bachelor’s director of program opera- non-intimidating way.” degree in broadcast journal- tions, Mullen has had only ism one year later, Mullen Mullen works remotely for a few interactions with the resumed working on the the New York City-based podcast host, Tyson. podcast, and his job role has podcast network, from his snowballed ever since. home in Chicago, where he PHOTO BY JEHANNE JUNGUENET

34 Franklin College MAGAZINE By Shelby Mullis ’19, Pulliam Fellow

As an undergraduate, Mullen neither foresaw nor precisely prepared for the career path he’s following, but his background in the liberal arts and sciences has been beneficial to helping make him a stronger writer.

“Science is based on fact, and you don’t want to fabricate what you’re saying to people in episode copy. You also have to find a way to make information pop. It tests my creative story- telling and journalism skills.”

A sense of purpose moti- vates Mullen to do his best work.

“The fact that I can help bring science, positivity and education into the world is such a joy.”

See his work at IanMullen- IsHere.com J

SPRING 2019 35 By Current Publishing, LLC. Reprinted by permission. Copyright 2019.PUPPYlove

“As a volunteer, it’s one of the best days of my year because I get to help make people happy while spending time with a sweet, brilliant dog.” SUZANNE (NEKVASIL) ROBINSON ’87

PHOTOS BY SARA BALDWIN SCHATZ

36 Franklin College MAGAZINE Franklin College Alumni Council member Suzanne (Nekvasil) Robinson ’87 and her spouse, Mark, have a passion for paws and for philanthropy. Volunteering with the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) gives the Carmel, Indiana, couple the chance to combine the two loves.

For the third consecutive year, they “She sent us puppy pictures of served on ICAN’s Puppy Love Valen- Ranger, and we framed them tines Committee and accompanied and gave them to our parents as service dogs on gift box deliveries to a Christmas gift,” Suzanne said. workplaces in the Indianapolis area. “They didn’t adopt Ranger until he was three years old, so they ICAN actually impacted the Robinsons loved seeing him as a puppy.” long before they knew the organiza- tion’s name. Suzanne’s late mother All ICAN dogs receive most of had a rare condition that caused her their training by offenders at muscles to atrophy, and she needed three state prisons, Pendleton help to support herself. Her late father Correctional Facility, Correctional had Parkinson’s disease. Industrial Facility in Pendle- ton and the Indiana Women’s “Someone we knew was aware there Prison in Indianapolis. Dogs who were service dogs who are really well- graduate from the program are trained but don’t graduate from the paired with a child or adult with training program, so my parents ended a disability or disorder, such as up adopting one, a black Labrador autism, epilepsy, diabetes, stroke named Ranger, about 15 years ago,” or post-traumatic stress disorder. Robinson said. “The friend coordinated everything, so we never even learned Suzanne and Mark regularly attend sponsorships and fundraisers like the the name of the organization.” ICAN service dog graduations at the Puppy Love program. women’s prison, when prisoners who Ranger helped with mobility issues trained the dogs officially turn them Suzanne said Puppy Love is a win-win- and household activities. over to the clients. win in that it benefits ICAN, the Valen- tine gift box recipients (many of whom “My mom would give Ranger the “It is very emotional. The handlers are surprised to receive it) and the ‘brace’ command and he would stiffen share that while they can’t change the volunteers assisting with deliveries. his body so she could push off of him pain they have caused other people, to get out of her chair. He could turn ICAN provides a way for them to give “As a volunteer, it’s one of the best lights on. He would get mail for them. back and help take pain away for days of my year because I get to help He was such a great dog who really someone else,” said Robinson. make people happy while spending helped my mom to be independent time with a sweet, brilliant dog.” longer. The only reason he didn’t grad- She vividly recalls the first graduation uate is because he barked at cars.” they attended. The Robinsons are able to use their marketing, communications and About 10 years after Ranger’s adoption, “A prisoner-handler said no living media relations experience to help Robinson met Sally Irvin, the founder being had expressed love for her until ICAN beyond their committee work. of ICAN, at a fundraiser for a different she trained an ICAN dog.” Suzanne is communications director nonprofit organization. In speaking for Crowe, and Mark is a senior with Robinson about her parents’ dog, The cost to train a dog for the two-year manager of editorial content for the Sally realized that Ranger had been program is about $26,000. Clients who IndyCar Series. J part of ICAN, and she had trained him receive the dog do not have to pay that as a newborn puppy. amount thanks to donations, grants,

SPRING 2019 37 CLASS NOTES 1 ’50s

Max Fitzpatrick ’56 recently received the Franklin (Ind.) Chamber of Com- merce Community Service Award in recognition of his many years of volunteerism with 4-H and the Johnson County Fair. A longtime member of the fair board, Fitzpatrick’s involvement has included signing the first-ever contract for vendor-provided 2 games and rides, founding the Tractor 3 Club and organizing a grant that allows 4-H clubs and members to spend money on education- al programs. In 2018, he received recognition at the Indiana 4-H Leader- ship Summit for his 65 years of volunteerism.

’70s

David Young ’72 became the girls’ soccer coach at Columbus (Ind.) North High School in March 2019. He is only the fourth coach to lead the program since its inception in 1993. He has worked in Columbus for 20 years as an 4 engineer for AT&T.

Mike McClure ’75 announced publicly in a Daily Journal story that he would retire as Franklin (Ind.) Community High School’s assistant athletic director on June 11, 2019. His current role coupled with his previous positions of teaching and coaching football and track at the high school reflect a 20-year tenure. McClure also 5 6 is a former head football coach at 1: Terri L. Roberts-Leonard, Franklin College Director of Diversity and Inclusion, and Franklin College. Succeeding McClure Brooke (Wagoner) Worland ’99, Franklin Community Schools Assistant Superintendent 2: Alberto Marcias ’08 3: Jennifer (Lash) Jones ’98 4: Max Fitzpatrick ’56 5: Jason as assistant athletic director is the Huckelberry and spouse Sara (Papas) ’06 6: Gary L. Robinson ’78 high school’s current head football PHOTOS BY CHAD WILLIAMS, OTHERS SUBMITTED

38 Franklin College MAGAZINE coach Chris Coll ’90, who was a player of the State Ethics Commission by Franklin College, are the parents of a at the college when McClure was Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb. Noel was son, Brooks Michael, born Oct. 12, 2018. defensive coordinator and, eventually, appointed to a four-year term on the Brittany works at Hendricks Regional the head coach. commission by Holcomb in 2018. She Immediate Care Center in addition to previously served on the State Employ- the college. The family resides in Mar- Gary L. Robinson ’78, seventh-grade ees Appeals Commission for six years. tinsville, Indiana. social studies teacher, was chosen She earned her doctorate from Indiana Alberto MacÌas ’08 won the 2018 the 2017-18 Center Grove Communi- University’s Maurer School of Law. CLASS NOTES ty School Corp. Teacher of the Year. Indiana State Commissioner’s Award Colleagues voted him as teacher of the Brooke (Wagoner) Worland ’99 made a for Youth Services Employee of the year at the middle school, and then a career transition to assistant super- Year. He teaches PE and health at the special panel at Franklin College se- intendent of Franklin Community Logansport Juvenile Correctional lected him the winner among all of the Schools in March 2019. She previously Facility. One of his nominators said, teachers of the year across the school worked at Franklin College, where “He has a special type of charisma and district. He has taught for more than she served in a variety of roles during integrity that the youth have grown four decades, with most of those years her 18-year career. At her time of to love and respect. His presence spent in Greenwood, Indiana’s Center departure, Worland was the assistant and way of working with the youth Grove community, where he graduated provost and dean of engaged learning. immediately improved the safety and from high school. Her volunteerism includes serving as dynamics of the general population at board vice president of the Elba L. and the facility.” ’90s Gene Portteus Branigin Foundation since the fall of 2017. For her profes- ’10s David Dunkle ’94, M.D., vice president sional achievements, leadership and of medical affairs for Johnson Memo- volunteerism, Worland was select- Travis Braun ’10 was recognized rial Health, was named interim CEO ed the 2019 winner in the alumnae in Variety magazine after entering in March 2019. The health system is category of the Franklin College Office into a new contract with Disney located in Franklin, Indiana. of Diversity and Inclusion Women Channels Worldwide. He will of Distinction Awards. She and her develop and produce both animated Debbie (Lacy) Guckenberger ’95 will be family reside in Franklin, Indiana. and live-action content for multiple the girls’ Indiana All-Stars coach when platforms. He currently serves as the team faces the Kentucky All-Stars on June 7 and 8. Guckenberger is the ’00s girls’ basketball coach at Brownsburg Paul Buening ’00 was inducted into High School, where she recently the 2019 Chargers Athletics Hall of completed her fourth season and led Fame at North Decatur High School in the team to a 20–4 record. She is 70–29 Greensburg, Indiana. He was a three- overall with two Class 4A sectional sport athlete in football, basketball Stay connected championships in her record. Gucken- and baseball. He also played basketball berger previously coached 12 seasons in college and was a three-year starter. Share email, phone and at Greenwood and is 197–162 overall in address updates with the office 16 seasons. Sara Papas ‘06 married Jason Huckel- of alumni engagement to help berry on September 9, 2018, at Wood- ensure you continue receiving the Jennifer (Lash) Jones ’98 recently land Country Club in Carmel, Indiana. college magazine, became an equity partner at They honeymooned in Aruba. Sara is a special invitations and Sackrider & Co., an accounting firm technical service specialist for Roche timely announcements. in Terre Haute, Indiana. Jones, a CPA, Diagnostics, and Jason is a control Send updates to joined the firm in 1998, specializing in engineer at Bastian Solutions. They [email protected] services for employee benefit plans, reside in Noblesville, Indiana. not-for-profits and contractors. or call 317.738.8050. Lance LaBonte ’07 and his spouse, Katherine Noel ’98, a Kokomo, Indi- Brittany (Smithey) ’07, assistant pro- ana, attorney, was appointed chair fessor of physician assistant studies at

SPRING 2019 39 creator and co-executive producer of Martin Chastain ’13 and his spouse, is co-owner of QB Curators. He and the Disney Channel series “Fast Layne” Jessica (Haggard) ’13, are the parents business-partner Maria Behringer and Disney Junior’s series “T.O.T.S.” In of a son, Sawyer Murphy, born Jan. 10, bring contemporary art exhibitions to 2016, Braun wrote and produced the 2019. The family resides in Greenwood, Indianapolis. commercial “Doritos Dogs,” which Indiana. won a $1 million grand prize and aired Jake David ’15 and Hayley Tiberghein during Super Bowl 50. Brianne (Steppe) Schneckenberger ’13 ’16 married on June 16, 2018. Members took the oath of office as an appointed of the wedding party included Corie Fonso White ’11 joined Bishop Luers member of the Planning Commission Walton ’16, Matthew Bachman ’15 High School in Fort Wayne, Indiana, for McCordsville, Indiana, in February and Shaughn Harrigan ’15. Jake works as the boys’ basketball coach in the 2019. At the time, she was the youngest for David Enterprises, and Hayley is fall of 2018. He previously coached at and the only female. teaching third grade. They reside in Westfield, Clinton and Southport high Evansville, Indiana. schools, all located in Indiana. Krystel (Sloan) Neal ’14 and her spouse, Joe, are the parents of a son, Kate (Miller) Denton ’15 and her Amy Fox ’12 and Dalton Spiller married Brigan William, born Sept. 20, 2018. spouse, Ryan, are the parents of a on Oct. 20, 2018, at Walker’s Bluff Krystel works as a polysomnographic daughter, Hadley, born Dec. 14, 2018. Winery in Carterville, Illinois. They technician at the Riley Hospital for She joins a brother, Jace. The family reside in Southern Illinois. Children Sleep Center. The family resides in Crown Point, Indiana. resides in Indianapolis. Jenna (Erdman) Rutan ’12 and her Max Larreur ’15 earned his Master of spouse, Jacob, are the parents of a son, Tony Quintana ’14 is co-director Science in wildlife biology at Kansas Chase, born May 18, 2018. Chase joins of 10th West Gallery in downtown State University in the summer of 2018 a sister, Claire. The family resides in Indianapolis. The contemporary and accepted a full-time position as Columbus, Indiana. fine art gallery earned first place in an instructor at the Cape Eleuthera Nuvo magazine’s Best of Indy 2018 Institute in the Bahamas. list of local galleries. Quintana also

1: Joe Neal, son Brigan and spouse Krystel (Sloan) ’14 2: Amy (Fox) Spiller ’12 and spouse Dalton 3: Sawyer Murphy Chastain, son of Martin Chastain ’13 and wife Jessica (Haggard) ’13 4: Maria Behringer and business partner Tony Quintana ’14 5: Kate (Miller) Denton ’15, holding daughter Hadley, next to spouse Ryan, holding son Jace

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40 Franklin College MAGAZINE OBITUARIES Indiana roots to operate a tractor sales New pursuits? company in partnership with her ’30s father. She had a deep love of the land Share your milestones, experiences, and abundant respect for the farmers travels and tales in the next Virginia (Patterson) Nutting ’39 died entrusted with its care. She became magazine! Email submissions to on Aug. 20, 2018. She majored in math- sole owner-operator of the dealership [email protected]. ematics at Franklin and was a member in 1965, renaming it Lawrence Coun- Photo attachments are of Tri Delta sorority. She was preceded ty Ford Tractor. She retired in 1990. welcome, but please in death by her spouse, Eugene. Their She was an active volunteer, serving be sure to ID everyone, three children survive. She resided in 43 years on the Bedford Medical from left to right. Centennial, Colorado. Center board and as the first woman president of the Bedford Chamber ’40s of Commerce. Spouse Albert preced- ed her in death. Survivors include Margaret Anne (Dillard) Boyer ’44 died two children, three grandchildren Sophia Abner ’17 completed her on Oct. 18, 2018, from complications and three great-grandchildren. Son Master of Public Health degree at the following a stroke. She majored in Martin ’80 and granddaughter Allison University of Edinburgh in Scotland. English at Franklin and was a member (Huffman) Kruse ’03 are alumni. She She also accepted a research of Pi Beta Phi sorority. She attended resided in Bedford, Indiana. position on diabetes and other graduate school at Indiana Universi- cardiometabolic diseases at the ty prior to moving south, where her James D. “Don” Willis ’48 died Dec. 13, University of Leicester in the United husband, Roscoe A. ’41, Ph.D., taught 2018. He majored in pure mathematics Kingdom. at the University of Mississippi School and was a member of Kappa Delta of Education in Oxford. There, she Rho fraternity at Franklin. He also Zac Turner ’18 accepted a production helped organize the local chapter was a U.S. Army veteran of World War technician position with the Pioneer of the League of Women Voters and II. He worked as an insurance claim Chemical Co. His bachelor’s degree is the Ole Miss chapter of Pi Beta Phi representative for various companies in biology/ecology conservation. (with which she maintained a lifelong throughout his career, retiring from connection). The Boyers were lifelong Allstate after 20 years. His spouse of Jessica Young ’18 is a customer support members of the Oxford-University 67 years, Patricia, preceded him in representative at KYB Americas Corp. United Methodist Church. Survivors death. Survivors include their three in Greenwood, Indiana. She brings include two sons and five grand- children, four grandchildren and three a bachelor’s degree in quantitative children. She resided in Needham, great-grandchildren. He resided in analysis with an economics special- Massachusetts. Bargersville, Indiana. ization to the role, which involves gathering and interpreting informa- Mary Lu (Bergdoll) Hanson ’48 died Ruth A. (Rogers) Ragsdale ’49 died tion to better serve customers. J Oct. 10, 2018, after a brief illness. She Jan. 2, 2019. She was a Pi Beta Phi attended Franklin College one semes- sorority member at Franklin. She later ter before returning to her family worked as a sales associate for Talbots. CORRECTION home in southern Indiana to help She enjoyed doting on dogs and cats operate the family grocery store. After and rooting for the Cincinnati Reds We regret misspelling Jane (Wyrick) World War II ended, she returned and Louisville Cardinals. Survivors in- Hettich ’34 and omitting her class to the college, where she became a clude her spouse, John “Jack” ’48, their year in our previous issue, Winter member of Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, three children and four grandchildren. 2019. Hettich was director of alumni later serving as chapter president. One grandson preceded her in death. relations at Franklin College from After graduating, she remained active She resided in Louisville, Kentucky. 1954 – 74. She died March 14, 2002. as a college volunteer with the Alumni Council and as a donor through the ’50s Old Main Society. For a short time, she worked for Purdue University as Claiborn M. “Clip” Wamsley ’50 died a home demonstration agent, but, in Jan. 27, 2019. He majored in business 1952, she returned to her southern and was a member of Kappa Delta Rho

SPRING 2019 41 fraternity at Franklin. He also was a Richard “Dick” Judy ’57, Ph.D., died manufacturers across the Midwest and U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. He Dec. 29, 2018, on his 84th birthday. He on the East Coast, eventually retir- made a lifelong career at First National attended Franklin College and Indiana ing from GenCorp Services. He later Bank of Monterey, Indiana, serving University. He enlisted in the U.S. Army became a very active volunteer, as chair and CEO until his death. He in 1958 and served as a commissioned serving on multiple boards. Survivors was a previous recipient of Indiana’s officer from 1961–85, retiring as a include his wife, Loretta, their two Sagamore of the Wabash award, a lieutenant colonel with multiple children and one grandchild. He resid- volunteer member of his town’s fire medals and citations. He earned ed in Marion, Indiana. department and a longtime score- master and doctoral degrees from Daniel L. “Dan” Murray ’59 died keeper for two area high schools. His Indiana University, and he subsequent- Oct. 25, 2018. He attended Purdue wife of 71 years, Alice (Mishler) ’48, ly built a long career in education at University and Franklin College, survives, as do their four children, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens where he was a member of Sigma 15 grandchildren and 28 great-grand- Point, where he served as dean of Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He served children. business and economics. After retir- in the U.S. Army Reserve and made a ing from that position, he continued career as a land surveyor. He retired Theresa “Terry” (Tull) Wells ’52 died teaching at the university until 2000. from Franklin Engineering after 40 Jan. 5, 2019. She attended Franklin for He then became a small-business years of service. He was a 58-year two years and was a member of Delta consultant. He was an active volunteer member of the Franklin Masonic Zeta sorority. She worked as a news through Rotary, Boy Scouts and the Lodge F&AM and a previous exalted reporter at the Kokomo Tribune for local chamber of commerce, among ruler of the Franklin Elks Lodge. a short time before getting married. others. Survivors include his wife, Survivors include his wife, Rita, their Later on, she worked as an estimator Mary, their three children, six grand- two children and four grandchildren. at Phillips Brothers Printers in Spring- children and one great-grandchild. He He was a resident of Franklin, Indiana. field, Illinois, retiring after 17 years. resided in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Survivors include her three children, Steve, Mike and the Rev. Julie (Wells) Lloyd R. “Buzz” Spencer ’57 died ’60s Blythe ’82, five grandchildren and two Jan. 15, 2019. He was a member of great-grandchildren. She resided in the football team and Lambda Chi James “Jim” Newkirk ’60 died April Springfield, Illinois. Alpha fraternity at Franklin, where he 30, 2018, after a brief battle with renal majored in theatre. A U.S. Army cancer. He was a U.S. Army veteran, Rev. Dewey R. Findley ’54 died Feb. veteran, he for a time had a career who built a 31-year career in finance at 20, 2019. He majored in psychology as a radio DJ, then he transitioned to Eli Lilly and Co. He was a former Cub at Franklin, where he sang with sales and management for Johnson Scout leader, high school team adviser the concert choir and was chapter & Johnson and Searle (later renamed for Junior Achievement and Little president of the Independent Men Monsanto). After retiring, he and his League coach. His wife of 61 years, social organization. He was ordained spouse, Sue (VanAntwerp) ’55, returned Shirley, survives, as do their four chil- into the Methodist Church ministry to Columbus, Indiana, where they dren and 12 grandchildren. He resided in 1957, and he earned bachelor’s and were very active in the Unitarian in Franklin, Indiana. master’s degrees from Boston Univer- Universalist Congregation and as Paul M. “Pat” Clancy ’61 died Nov. 13, sity School of Theology. He and his volunteers with Franklin College and 2018. He attended Franklin and was a spouse, Kay (Smithey) ’61, served at Meals on Wheels. The couple also member of the football team and Phi numerous churches across Northern enjoyed traveling the world. Sue, his Delta Theta fraternity prior to leaving Indiana and Illinois. The Findleys spouse of 64 years, survives, as do their to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. He were married for 58 years, serving two children, five grandchildren and later served as president of the Shane as a loving example to the couples three great-grandchildren. who attended their popular marriage Co., a privately owned chain of jewelry enrichment workshops. Kay survives, Byron Beck ’59 died Oct. 14, 2018. stores. He developed the jeweler’s as do their four children, eight grand- He was a U.S. Army veteran of the well-known tagline “You have a children and four great-grandchildren. Korean War. He majored in economics friend in the diamond business.” After Two grandchildren preceded Dewey in at Franklin, then earned his Master of retiring from there, he opened Clancy death. He resided in Franklin, Indiana. Business Administration from Indiana Furniture Brokers, where he worked University. He worked for various until his death. Survivors include his

42 Franklin College MAGAZINE EARLY INNOVATOR

The National Inventors Hall of Fame posthumously inducted James M. Sprague ’30 (HD ’54), Ph.D., on May 2, 2019, during a ceremony at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.

Sprague was inducted in recognition of his role on the Merck Sharp & Dohme Research Laboratories team that pioneered thiazide diuretics, the first class of drugs to safely and effectively treat hypertension. Today, thiazide diuretics remain a first-line treatment for high blood pressure and related heart problems.

“The National Inventors Hall of Fame honors the innovative game-changers who have transformed our world,” said CEO Michael Oister. “Through inventions as diverse as life-saving medicines and web browsers for the visually impaired, these superhero innovators have made significant advances in our daily lives and well-being.”

Sprague held a doctorate from the University of Wisconsin and did postdoctoral work at Yale University. He earned 27 U.S. patents and several foreign patents for his employer, Merck Co., Inc. Sprague died in 2000, at age 91. J

SUBMITTED PHOTO significant other, Micki Mayer, her four children and eight grandchildren. ’70s children and her grandchildren. He He resided in Trafalgar, Indiana. resided in Indianapolis. Sharon L. (Robarts) Deming ’71 died L. Gene Perry ’63 died Feb. 21, 2018. Feb. 13, 2019. She held a bachelor’s David Cline ’61 died Jan. 5, 2019. He He held a Master in Business Admin- degree in sociology from Franklin and worked for Eli Lilly and Co. for 39 istration from Indiana University a master’s degree in library science years in the elemental analysis labo- and achieved a lifetime career in from Southern Connecticut State ratory. His hobbies included golfing, human resources with Bloomington University. She was a librarian prior to hunting and fishing. Survivors include Hospital of Orange County (now IU launching her own business as a real his spouse, Mary Ann, their two chil- Health Paoli), retiring as CEO. Survi- estate appraiser and title searcher. She dren and six grandchildren. He resided vors include his spouse, Kathrine, retired in 2010, due to health reasons. in Greenwood, Indiana. four children and three grandchildren. Survivors include her spouse, Glenn He resided in Bloomington, Indiana. ’71, their child and two grandchildren. Norman Jackman ’61 died Nov. 17, 2018. She resided in Meriden, Connecticut. He attended Franklin College, where Nicholas LaVecchia ’67 died Dec. 23, he played baseball and was a member 2018. He attended Franklin College Linda Horsey ’71, Ph.D., died Jan. 5, of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He and Humboldt State University in 2019. She earned her bachelor’s degree was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and California. He was a U.S. Army veteran in sociology from Franklin College, retired from Williams Industries, after of the Vietnam War and had a teach- then went on to earn a master’s degree 40 years of service. Survivors include ing career. He resided in Menlo Park, in social work and a doctorate in his spouse, Rosalyn, their three California. education administration, both from

SPRING 2019 43 Columbia University. She worked ’00s ELEVATING as an instructor for 13 years at Old Dominion University and was a clini- Blake Mayfield ’04 died Aug. 28, 2018. cal manager for the city of Portsmouth He was a member of the football SCHOLARS until her death. Survivors include team and Phi Delta Theta fraternity at two children. She resided in Norfolk, Franklin. He earned his master’s FRANKLIN COLLEGE ARCHIVES The Roger F. Mock ’67 Virginia. degree in elementary education from Endowed Memorial Indiana Wesleyan University, and Mathematics Schol- Larry A. Roush ’75 died Jan. 14, 2019, at he taught at Northgrove Elementary arship, established his home. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. School. Survivors include his spouse, in February, honors Survivors include his wife, Deborah, Suzy, and their two children. He resid- a man whose their child and one grandchild. He ed in Bargersville, Indiana. interests and talents resided in Martinsville, Indiana. were diverse. Mock, who died in Friends of Franklin College 2010, at age 65, was the 12th mem- ’80s ber of his family to attend Franklin Joyce L. Green died Oct. 28, 2018. She Scott A. Tanner ’86 died Feb. 21, 2019. College. His brother-in-law, James T. was a registered nurse and worked for He majored in history at Franklin, Napolitan (HD ’12), Ph.D., a college many years at Franklin College. She where he was a football team mem- trustee, established the $50,000 also held positions with the John- ber. He went on to graduate from the scholarship as a gesture of love and son County Health Department, as Indiana University School of Law respect for his wife, Sandra (Mock) head nurse, and the Indiana Masonic and establish the Tanner Law Group ’60, Ph.D., on her 80th birthday. Home (now Compass Park), where she in Indianapolis. He was a member of trained nurses aides. Survivors include “Sandra dearly loved Roger,” the Community Associations Institute her spouse of nearly 66 years, William explained Jim. “He was a person not (CAI) and was designated a fellow in its B. “Bill” Sr. ’50, their two children, six afraid to be different; we have so College of Community Association grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren many great memories of him.” Lawyers, the highest national honor and one great-great-grandchild. She for attorneys specializing in the prac- was a member of Grace United Meth- Roger, for example, was passionate tice. He was active in the leadership odist Church and gave faithfully to about theatre and acting, which led of the Central Indiana Chapter of CAI, many nonprofit organizations in her him to a stint in pro wrestling, where serving as president and for several hometown of Franklin, Indiana. he portrayed Col. Roger Peabody, a terms on the board of directors. His Britisher. spouse of 32 years, Carole (Phelps) ’86, Yuriko Ling died Dec. 9, 2018. She survives, as do their two children. He was an adjunct professor of Japanese Although wildly creative, Roger also resided in Greenwood, Indiana. and sociology courses at Franklin was analytical. He double majored College from 1985 to 2003. She also in mathematics and chemistry. His Kevin C. Burdine ’87 died Jan. 8, 2019. taught part time at Indiana University- avocations included serving in the He majored in sociology at Franklin, Purdue University Indianapolis. U.S. Army, working for the Medical where he was a member of Phi Delta Beyond teaching, she actively volun- Business Bureau of Chicago (a family Theta fraternity and the basketball teered in the Franklin community. business), editing legal textbooks, team. Most recently, he worked for She helped city officials bring KYB crunching numbers and training Action Filtration Corp., and he was a Industries, the first Japanese-owned interns at the Chicago Mercantile game official for basketball and volley- manufacturing facility to Franklin. She Exchange. ball. Heather, his wife of nearly three also established a sister-city exchange years, survives, as do two children “The gentleness of Roger’s mind program between Franklin and Kuji, and four stepchildren. He resided in was always a source of amaze- Japan. For her efforts, she received the Franklin, Indiana. ment to me,” said Sandra. “He loved Woman of the Year Award from the mathematics, and I think he would Franklin Chamber of Commerce. Her enjoy knowing that his scholarship husband, Yu-long, a Franklin College will foster others with that same professor emeritus of political science, passion.” J survives, as does their son, daughter- in-law and three granddaughters. J

44 Franklin College MAGAZINE No small

fEATBy Amy (Kean) VerSteeg ’96, Editor At 117 pounds, Ric Flecker ’67 did not look like the average-size college football player, but what he lacked in size he made up for with heart.

Still, finding a way to attend Franklin College and play football was no small feat for Flecker. He gives full credit to his mother for having the will to find a way.

Flecker grew up in Alex- andria, Indiana, during a strong economy buoyed by manufacturing. His father, brother, uncle and three cousins all worked at the nearby GM plant, where there were “good-paying” jobs. QUINN FITZGERALD ’20

SPRING 2019 45 The unspoken understanding was that “What she did with such Flecker would follow their example. courage is remarkable. I can’t imagine what it was like “My dad was a man of few words, for her after she drove me and college was never a part of the to campus, then went back conversation,” explained Flecker. “My home and waited for my dad mom didn’t give opinions. She was a to get off work,” said Flecker. simple homemaker. Her main job was raising five kids and taking care of her He heard through the family husband. Dad made all the decisions, grapevine that his father and I never saw her defy him.” gave his mother the silent treatment for weeks. To this That changed in the summer of ’63. day, Flecker marvels at her sacrifice. Flecker was a high school graduate, undergoing treatment for debilitating “I can’t say with any certain- mastoiditis, which made him unable ty that I would have gone off to work and gave him too much time to college on my own, but to think about the college experi- mom knew there was more I ence he would be missing. Even the was meant to do. Every suc- financial aid form he had somehow cess of any kind I’ve had in managed to get his dad’s signature on life is due to her decision.” seemed like a lost cause, as summer slipped away. With his foot finally in the door at Franklin College, With only one day remaining before Flecker made a beeline for freshmen were to begin classes at head football coach Stewart Franklin College, the only school “Red” Faught. where Flecker sought admission, the phone rang at his family’s home. What “I can’t imagine what it was happened next changed the course of like for him to have this his life. little scatback saying, ‘Hi, I’m here to save your football Ric Flecker ’67 on the day his mother “The Franklin College Business Office program.’ I had such an irrational dropped him off to begin college. told mom if she could come up with viewpoint. I went out to that football $800 (equivalent to about $6,400 today) Alice Flecker and son Ric on their way field thinking I was an equal,” recalled to the college’s “May Sing” event. that it, along with grants, work-study Flecker. jobs and loans would pay for my fresh- SUBMITTED PHOTOS man year. As it turned out, Flecker earned a place on the team, but his frame was too “That same day, very matter-of-factly, small for the college gear. He had to mom drove me to the bank, co-signed request his high school football helmet for a loan and took me downtown for and practice pads; he kept his lucky new clothes. I left for Franklin with No. 28 but handpainted his helmet four shirts and four pairs of pants,” gold to match his college teammates. said Flecker. “Coach never diminished my potential, Most astonishing, to him, was that his but he made it clear that I would play mother did all of it without consulting when he thought I was ready,” recalled his father. the former running back.

46 Franklin College MAGAZINE “My freshman year was mostly a Flecker’s career eventually led to learning experience. I was on a scout Edgerton, Ohio, where he was a high team that let the main guys run over school guidance counselor for 12 years us, and I think I earned some credit for and girls’ basketball coach for 11 years. toughness. I got more of an active role in my sophomore and later years.” “We had two undefeated seasons and “Mom’s decision went to the state championships,” Coach gave the diminutive player a Flecker said. His fondest memory is to send me boost of confidence by inflating his the culmination of an undefeated weight more than 30 pounds on the season, one year prior to his mother’s to college team roster, listing him at 150. Once death. propelled Flecker made his way off the bench, his parents began attending games. “It was parent night, and my sister me to a brought my mom. I went over to give “There’s no question that dad begrudg- mom a red rose and a hug, and the very satisfying ingly came to accept that mom made fans gave her a standing ovation. Then, the right decision for me. He came she stood up and bowed. Afterward, 29-year career.” to the football games with her, and my sister talked about how much that on Dads’ Day wore a cardboard sign meant to mom, and it really meant a RIC FLECKER ‘67 around his neck with my number on lot to me, too.” it. He never said he was proud, but he used to leave a $5 bill on my desk After his tenure in Ohio, Flecker moved every time they visited.” to Whiteland, Indiana, where he served as a high school guidance coun- Besides football, Flecker pledged Phi selor for 15 years and girls’ basketball Delta Theta fraternity, participated coach for nine years. on the baseball and track teams and completed his bachelor’s degree in “Mom’s decision to send me to college PE. His first job after college was in An- propelled to me to a very satisfying derson, Indiana, teaching journalism 29-year career,” Flecker said. and advising the student newspaper He honors her with the Alice Flecker at Highland High School, where he Memorial Scholarship at Edgerton and also was the head baseball coach. After Alexandria high schools. two years there, Flecker served in the Vietnam War. “Mom put other people first. Now, I try to do that. Maybe as I continue to age I He returned to Franklin College in will get better at it.” 1972 as a defensive backs coach while pursuing a master’s degree in Flecker comes back to Franklin College counseling and guidance at Indiana for football games as often as possible University. and regularly plays golf with several classmates who also were athletes in “I reflected on my high school years the ’60s. They’ve dubbed the group the and thought about how the counsel- Old Guard. ors didn’t seem very involved in my experience. I thought about how I Flecker resides in Nashville, Indiana, would do it differently and make the with his spouse, Jeanne, and volun- guidance office a place that students teers with the Brown County Humane would want to spend time. I realized Society. J that counseling would give me the chance to make a greater impact than teaching.”

SPRING 2019 47 PHOTO BY RENEE KEAN ’06

ACCELERATING WORKFORCE PREPARATION

Many of today’s competitive health-science graduate programs require direct patient-care experience as a prerequisite for admission, but schedule conflicts, uniform expenses and travel logistics can be big obstacles for undergraduate students. A health sciences co-op between Franklin College and a neighboring senior living community, Compass Park, is helping.

The program provides students, such as biology major Tetee Dahn ’19 (pictured above), with a four-week internship involving class instruction and direct patient care opportunities. The dual-approach gives students insight about their career options and offers transferrable experience for graduate school or professional positions. After completing the program, students may test to qualify for certified nursing assistant (CNA) positions at Compass Park, which offers flexible scheduling, as they continue pursuing their undergraduate degrees. The mutually beneficial program advances student learning while helping the retirement community address gaps in talent recruitment and retention.

The program, established in 2018 with a grant from the Ball Venture Fund, was the first of its kind between a four-year Indiana private institution and a health care provider. Special scholarships helped inaugural participants with uniform and test expenses. Read more about our pre-professional programs online, www.FranklinCollege.edu

101 Branigin Boulevard Franklin, Indiana 46131-2623 317.738.8000 or 800.852.0232 www.FranklinCollege.edu