The magazineMissouri of Missouri Western State University Western Fall 2016 President’s Perspective Student service abounds! Dear Friends, We were honored and grateful that Top left, nursing students recently raised As I write this letter, one word comes the King family gave Missouri Western funds for St. Joseph’s Social Welfare Board; to mind: BIG. And I think of BIG for permission to create the show. top right, the Organization of Student Social Workers annually hosts A Walk for the two reasons. And there was more BIG news. By Homeless, an informational event for the First, by the time you receive this the end of September 2016, the live, community; middle and lower left, students in magazine, Missouri Western will be home multimedia shows will have been shown the Department of Health, Physical Education to one of the largest video scoreboards in at the Truman Presidential Library in and Recreation host elementary students NCAA Division II – 2,500 square feet. Independence, Missouri; Union Station in for the annual American Heart Association’s Photos and an article about it are on p. 20, Kansas City, Missouri; in New York City fundraiser, Jump Rope for Heart, and the and more photos are on the back cover. and at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. Golden Age Games for area nursing home That is an outstanding component That’s BIG. residents; bottom right, the Department of the new Spratt Memorial Stadium If you haven’t seen all three shows, of Music students and faculty entertained that was completed this past spring. If check out the website – missouriwestern. the campus and community once a month you haven’t visited campus lately, you’ll edu/wcm – for performance dates. throughout the year at Midday Melodies in definitely want to come back and see the We will also celebrate what would the Kelley Commons and the Food Court. new stadium and scoreboard. Our football have been Walter Cronkite’s BIG birthday and soccer fans will really appreciate the – his 100th – on Nov. 4 with a number of new facilities and video board, which will activities. On Saturday, Nov. 5, the public create an amazing gameday experience. is invited to a special birthday party in the Secondly, I think of BIG because Memorial. of the Walter Cronkite Memorial. The More information about the Memorial happenings this year regarding the live, and the live performances is on p. 13. multimedia shows are very exciting and Thank you for your interest and yes, BIG. support of Missouri Western. I hope our This past spring, we created a third BIG news on several fronts makes you show, “King & Cronkite,” that delves proud that Missouri Western is your into the lives of Walter Cronkite and alma mater. Martin Luther King, Jr. Combined with the previous two shows, “Cronkite” and Sincerely, “Harry & Walter: Missouri’s Native Sons,” the three shows are collectively called “And That’s the Way It Is: Cronkite’s Dr. Robert Vartabedian Journey.” President, MWSU Dr. Robert Vartabedian, far right, is pictured at the performance of “And That’s the Way It Is: Cronkite’s Journey” at Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri. With him from left, is George Guastello, president and CEO of Union Station; and actors in the performance, Ken Remmert, Jim Korinke and Walter Coppage. In this issue Campus News

The Missouri Western Magazine is a ­publication of the University ON THE COVER Soccer and football student athletes in front of Spratt Memorial Stadium’s new video scoreboard. Photo by Patrick P. Evenson. Advancement Office for alumni and friends of Missouri Western University will offer MBA in 2017 State University and its predecessor institutions. The MBA program is the second SECTIONS FEATURES FALL 2016 The Missouri Coordinating program is accredited by AACSB VOLUME 14 Board for Higher Education recently International, which is the most graduate degree in the Craig School of authorized the Craig School of Business prestigious business accreditation Business. The school began offering a 3 Campus News NUMBER 3 16 Missouri Western to begin offering a Master of Business organization in the world. Master of Information Management in at your service EDITOR Administration degree in fall 2017. Missouri Western will offer three Enterprise Resource Planning in 2014. 20 Sports A student organization, an employee and Diane Holtz “This is a very important concentrations within the MBA For information on the MBA an alumna have found a variety of ways DESIGN EDITOR development in the evolution of our program: forensic accounting, enterprise program, contact Logan Jones, director 31 Alumnotes Kendy Jones ’94 to serve on campus, in Washington, D.C. university,” said Dr. Robert Vartabedian, resource planning, and animal and of the program, at (816) 271-4351 or DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING Missouri Western’s president. “It life sciences. Each concentration [email protected]. ​ and in the Philippines. Jomel Nichols will provide a wonderful continuing will require 18 credit hours of core The MBA is Missouri Western’s DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS Colleen Kowich educational opportunity for many local courses in finance and accounting, 17th master’s degree program. The 24 Rockin’ Retirement leaders and business people in our marketing, management, analytics Graduate School also offers seven PHOTOGRAPHERS Is retirement in your near future? You John Ellis community and beyond.” and communication, and 12 hours in graduate certificate programs. For might want to check out tips for enjoying Kartheek Gaddameedi Dr. Mike Lane, dean of the Craig the concentration area. Classes will be more information on Missouri Rachel Gough your retirement and see how others are Gilbert Imbiri School of Business, noted that the offered in the evening. Western’s advanced degrees, visit making the most of their golden years. Tanner Martine www.missouriwestern.edu/graduate.

BOARD OF GOVERNORS Greg Mason ’89, Chair Western Playhouse David Liechti, Vice Chair Leo Blakley ’62, Dirck Clark ’85, Al Purcell, Kayla Schoonover ’77, Missouri Western’s summer theatre program, Western Playhouse, presented “Fiddler on the Roof” to large audiences in June. The Playhouse recognized Dr. Joseph Deborah Smith ’79 and Joseph Kellogg, Student Governor. Friedman ’39, who had starred in the production on Broadway and recently passed away.

ALUMNI BOARD Mary Vaughan ’79, President Natalie Redmond ’00, First Vice President Jim Jeffers ’73, Second Vice President Angie Springs ’02, Immediate Past President

Marilyn Beck ’77, Joe Byer ’11, Shelby Coxon ’99, Linda Crabtree ’60, Jodi Deering ’01, Diane Hook ’90, Bob Hughs ’06, Lai-Monte Hunter ’99, Claudia James ’89, Linda Kerner ’73, Kendell Misemer ’82, Phyllis Myers ’56, Molly Pierce ’77, James Sanders ’84, Ralph Schank ’82, David Slater ’83, Jennifer Stanek ’99, Larry Stobbs ’74, 16 Joseph Vigliaturo ’75. Lilia White ’12, Tona Williams ’00 and Mary Workman ’76.

FOUNDATION BOARD Jason Horn ’95, Chair Seth Wright, Vice Chair Dennis Rosonke, Treasurer Bill Grimwood, Secretary

Ashley Albers, Kit Bradley Bowlin, Jared Brooner, Drew Brown, Eric Bruder ’93, Ali Carolus, Pat Dillon, Jason Grayson ’98, Ed Haffey ’62, Diane Hook ’90, Steve Johnston, Rodger Karn ’98, Jennifer Kneib-Dixon ’89, Chris Looney, Corky Marquart ’84, Michael Pan- kau ’84, Susan Pettigrew ’83, Jerry Pickman ’85, executive director; Brent Porlier ’82; Al Purcell; Tom Richmond; David Shinneman; Tom Tewell; Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Western president; Greg VerMulm ’89; Julie Woods ’96 and Zack Workman ’74. 30 MISSOURI WESTERN MAGAZINE 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt Hall 108 St. Joseph, MO 64507 (816) 271-5651 [email protected] missouriwestern.edu/magazine

Missouri Western State University is an equal opportunity institution.

THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Fall 2016 3 20 Campus News Campus News

Campus Kudos Missouri Western Student creates museum exhibit • A poster created by Janelle for a ChemLuminary Award for • Jen Bagley Trotter, Missouri announces retirees History major Ashley Coats didn’t “She used her fame to publicize Anderson, a graphic design Outstanding Regional Meeting. Western’s head softball coach, know who Ruth Warrick was when issues,” Coats said. “The more I read, Congratulations to the 2015-16 major, was accepted for display Dr. Mike Ducey is the Department was named a YWCA Woman of a St. Joseph Museums staff member the more I realized it was obvious she retirees. Best wishes for the future! in the National Student Show of Chemistry chair. Excellence in the Woman in the suggested she create an exhibit about cared about people.” Warrick last spring. But Coats, an The Missouri Western junior said and Conference 12, sponsored Workplace category at the YWCA’s Dan Eckhoff ’91, Business Office, 25 • The Fountain City Brass Band won intern at the museum, dove in and her internship experience included by the Dallas Society of Visual annual luncheon. Also nominated in years first place in the Championship researched Warrick, and she created being involved in everything it takes to Communications. Anderson was one Division at the 2016 North the category were employees Dr. Judy of only 14 students nationwide from Grimes and Annette Weeks ’87. Nancy Gray, Purchasing, 32 years an exhibit that opened in June at the set up an exhibit, from writing grants American Brass Band Association Wyeth Tootle Mansion – Fame and to fund it (she received $1,500 from more than 1,400 entries submitted Competition in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. • Eliot Swope, video communications Brenda Griffith, Department of who had a poster or poster series Economics, Political Science and Politics: The Life of Ruth Warrick. the Missouri Humanities Council) to Dr. Lee Harrelson, associate specialist in the Instructional Media And who is Ruth Warrick, you may research, figuring out what to include accepted into the poster category professor of music and department Center, received a bronze Telly Sociology, 11 years of the exhibition. Anderson’s poster, ask? Most people know the St. Joseph and what not to include, drawing a floor chair, is a founding member of Award for “Am I Interrupting?” a Stena Hinkle, Department of native as Phoebe Tyler on the daytime plan, designing invitations and buying “128 Lives,” was a response to the group. He also conducted the promotional video he created for the Psychology, 34 years the Paris terrorist attacks of soap opera “All supplies for the Fountain City Youth Band, an Student Success Center. The Telly Denece Huffman ’00, Business Office, My Children.” opening reception, Nov. 13, 2015. The poster portrays ensemble made up of high schoolers Award is the premier award honoring 128 terrified faces stacked in the 20 years She held that and giving from the Kansas City area that videos and films. role for 35 years presentations about shape of the Eiffel Tower. claimed first prize in the Youth Karen Keller, Registrar’s Office, • Karen Luke of the Center for 32 years until she passed the exhibit. • Student Yuko Yamaoka was selected Division. Academic Support was named the away in 2005 at “I had so much to attend the 2016 TOMODACHI • Twelve graduate students in the Student Employment Supervisor of Jeanie Manning, Department of the age of 88. fun working on it Daiwa House Student Leadership Master of Information Management the Year for the 2015-16 academic English and Modern Languages, But and planning it,” Conference in Dallas. The conference with an Enterprise Resource year. 11 years Coats said Coats said. “The is for Japanese and American Planning concentration in the Susan Modlin, Physical Plant, 12 Warrick was people at the St. undergraduate and graduate students • The following were recipients of Craig School of Business passed the the 2016 Faculty and Staff Awards years a fascinating Joseph Museums to come together for leadership and TERP10 exam and are now SAP personality who were amazing. development training. that are sponsored by the MWSU Greg Monach, Physical Plant, 9 years Certified Associates. The pass rate Foundation: was not only They taught me so • Teresa Harris ’82 was Missouri was 80 percent; the pass rate for all Dr. Phil Nitse, Craig School of a well-known much.” Western’s recipient of the 2016 people taking the exam in 2014 was - Award for Teaching Excellence: Business, 5 years actress in her Ashley Coats The exhibit, on Rebecca Foley, Dr. Reza Governor’s Award for Excellence in 69 percent. Judy Noland, Library, 20 years day, but also the second floor of Education. Harris, associate professor Hamzaee, Dr. Jennifer very involved in politics. Warrick, who the Wyeth Tootle Mansion at 11th and • The NCAA and MIAA recognized Dr. Dennis Rogers, Department of of art and director of graphic design, Hegeman and Dr. Elise lived in St. Joseph until she was a senior Charles in St. Joseph, opened on June Griffon Athletics’ efforts in the Hepworth Music, 37 years received her award at a luncheon community with an NCAA Division in high school, made her film debut in 29, which would have been Warrick’s Julia Schneider ’67, Library, 44 years with Gov. Jay Nixon in April in II Award of Excellence. Missouri - Staff Service to Colleagues “Citizen Kane” in 1941, and went on 100th birthday. Jefferson City, Missouri. In addition Western Athletics received an Award: Tracy Sharp ’94 Dr. John Tapia, Department of to have roles in several other movies. In Coats credits her advisor, Dr. Orion to her teaching, Harris’s work has the 1950s and 1960s, she had roles in Teal, assistant professor of history, with NCAA Division II Award for - Staff Service to Students Award: Communication and Journalism, been accepted into more than 60 the soap operas “The Guiding Light” helping her secure the internship. Excellence for a bone marrow drive Carolyn Schindler 40 years juried international, national and solo that was organized by the Griffon and “As the World Turns,” and the “He gave me excellent advice and - Staff Service to University Jamie Willis, Western Institute, exhibitions and has been honored volleyball team this past fall. television series “Father of the Bride” was very encouraging. I don’t really like with numerous awards, including a Award: Diane Holtz 25 years and “Peyton Place.” public speaking, but Dr. Teal made me The team hosted bone marrow donor first place at the South Arkansas Arts - Dr. James V. Mehl Award Coats said Warrick’s family donated do it twice,” she added with a laugh. registrations on campus in support of Center’s juried exhibition last year. for Outstanding Faculty several boxes of memorabilia to the Since she wants to work in a 3-year-old Kennedy Holcumbrink’s • In April 2016, Colleen Kowich, Scholarship: Susan Bashinksi museum when she passed away, museum or at a historical site after she battle with leukemia. Holcumbrink’s Thank you for including jewelry, photos, and letters graduates in December 2017, Coats director of Alumni Relations, was - Dr. James J. Scanlon Award for parents were both student athletes from Presidents Clinton and Carter. said she was glad for the internship named the 2015 Kiwanian of the Staff Service to Community: at Missouri Western. The team also your combined She noted that Warrick was also experience. But the best part was, the Year by the St. Joseph Kiwanis Club. Tara Stoll ’00 sold t-shirts during the event with involved in many social causes, such St. Joseph Museums director hired her • The Midwest Regional Meeting of all proceeds benefiting the Ronald - Dr. James J. Scanlon Award for 357 years of as women’s mental health, childhood to work part-time when her internship the American Chemical Society that McDonald House of Kansas City, Faculty Service to Community: leukemia and others. was completed. was hosted on campus is a finalist Missouri. Dr. Maureen Raffensperger service!

THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 4 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 5

Campus News Campus News

Dr. Mark Laney receives honorary doctorate Center for Entrepreneurship serves community

Missouri Western conferred its generously supported the University’s This past spring, the Center highest honor, an honorary Doctor of science and health programs. for Entrepreneurship in the Craig Center for Humane Letters, on Dr. Mark Laney, Under Dr. Laney’s leadership, School of Business partnered with Entrepreneurship: CEO of Mosaic Life Care, during the Mosaic Life Care made two significant American Family Insurance to offer Spring Commencement ceremony gifts to Missouri Western: $500,000 Entrepreneurship Week, a week-long By the Numbers May 7. Missouri Western’s Board of for scientific equipment in Remington series of workshops and events for the · 2 years old Governors unanimously approved the and Agenstein halls, and $1.5 million to St. Joseph community. Entrepreneurship honor during its regular meeting create the first endowed professorship in Week was targeted toward local business · 250 Clients Feb. 25. Missouri Western’s history. Mosaic also professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, · 18 New businesses started “Since his arrival in the community continues to provide substantial in-kind college students, high school students, seven years ago, Dr. Laney has been and direct financial support for Missouri and those curious about the skills · 7 Expanded businesses a remarkable champion for this Western through shared personnel, needed to run a small business. More · 10 Retained/Acquisition University and community,” said Dr. scholarships and other means. than 500 participated. Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s Dr. Laney also dedicates his time “The purpose of the week was not · 47 Jobs created president. “His contributions and service by serving on boards, including the only to celebrate entrepreneurism, but to · 30 Jobs retained to Missouri Western are numerous.” Innovation Stockyard, the Community offer workshops to help business owners Dr. Vartabedian noted that Dr. Alliance of St. Joseph and the or prospective business owners learn · $6.8 million in estimated Laney and his wife, Mary Margaret, are St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. about owning a business,” said Annette new sales serving with Dan and Dale Boulware He is a past chair of both the Chamber Weeks ’87, director of the Center. · $3.1 million in invested capital as co-chairs of the Centennial Capital of Commerce as well as the Missouri Missouri Western business professors Steve Craig speaks at the lunch to cap off Dr. Mark Laney receives a Doctor of Humane Letters. Campaign. Additionally, Mosaic has Hospital Association. from multiple disciplines offered small, Entrepreneurship Week. All services are free and confidential. personalized sessions throughout the week. Examples of the sessions included Students educate about suicide prevention How to Write a Business Plan, Artists New franchise owners A group of social work students high numbers of suicides in the state, “They were shocked by the number as Entrepreneurs, QuickBooks for created a suicide awareness and especially among the college-aged of people who very blatantly said, ‘I Beginners, Advanced QuickBooks, Stephanie Tripp ’12 and Katie Parra ’16 are the newest store owners in the Craig School of Business’s franchise prevention campaign as part of a project group. don’t want to talk about it,’” she said. Social Media Tools for Small program. Parra won first place and will own a Yogli Mogli yogurt franchise in Wheaton, Illinois. Tripp placed in their Social Work Practice III course They found a 10-minute online “There is still such a stigma that people Businesses, Protect Your Business Idea second and will open an Auntie Anne’s pretzel franchise in the East Hills Mall in St. Joseph, Missouri. last fall. training course on Missouri Western’s can’t talk about it. It was quite an aha! and Using Excel for Beginners. Additionally, Allen Hoover ’13 will take over operation of the St Joseph Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and Jana Frye, assistant professor of social Counseling Center web page, and moment for the students.” As part of the week, the MECA Aspen Leaf Yogurt stores. Ernest Chamblee ’11, who competed last year and has been operating the stores in work, said a requirement of the class is they decided to encourage the campus She said going in, the students knew Challenge Kansas City Youth St Joseph, was awarded an RMCF in Woodbridge, Virginia. A celebration dinner was held the evening before for students to select a social issue and community to take the test. The training, there was a stigma about suicide, but Competition for high school students the competition with over 120 in attendance. Attendees included 15 owners and their spouses/guests, Frank plan a project around it. Students have Ask Listen Refer, is a statewide college- they didn’t realize it was that significant. was held on campus. The week ended Crail, RMCF founder and president; his wife, Ruan; Casey Crail, who works for RMCF; and Missouri Western come up with some great projects in based program. The center offered three The group also met with Dr. Robert with a lunch featuring a presentation benefactor Steve Craig. the past, she said, including the Walk $100 gift cards to the campus bookstore Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s by Steve Craig. Students had the for the Homeless, helping homeless for a drawing among those who president, who had created a chart opportunity to meet with Craig for a animals and working on the Safe Haven completed the training. for University personnel to better question-and-answer session prior to program. “Most suicides are preventable,” understand the signs of a suicidal the lunch. “The class gives them an opportunity Stickley said. “People just have to be person. Also this past spring, Weeks to find something they have a passion aware and notice the signs.” Frye said the students feel like they conducted a three-day training for for and walk through the process of how They set up a table in the Blum had some success, but there is a long members of the new North Central to fix it,” she said. Union to encourage students to take the way to go. “If we can take the stigma of Missouri Business Facilitation group in Last fall, six students wanted to online training. A good number stopped suicide away, we can keep people safe.” partnership with Northwest Missouri initiate a campus-wide campaign for to visit with them, but Frye said her Stickley said she hopes a future class Enterprise Facilitation. suicide awareness and prevention. students were surprised at the reaction will continue to make the campus aware Social work major Dana Stickley said they received from some. of resources that are available. “There’s a they were all concerned about the lot more to do.”

6 www.missouriwestern.edu Campus News Campus News

Gamers enjoy new class offering Rotary scholarship fund moves to Foundation

A class offered for the first time this development term for the second phase class to learn another aspect of digital The St. Joseph Eastside Rotary with the MWSU Foundation, which The group provides scholarships to past spring might sound like it’s just for of software testing where an intended animation. She would love a career in Club established a scholarship fund for will disburse the scholarships through nontraditional students at Missouri fun, but the students in the new Game audience tries the product. “I really environmental design, character design, Missouri Western students about 40 the system already in place for Missouri Western with a financial need, and Design class knew that there was a lot enjoyed it.” gaming, movies or animation. years ago, and the MWSU Foundation Western scholarships. the scholarships are renewable if the more to it. Carroll, from Dearborn, Missouri, “Actually, I’m open to where my will now assist the service organization Additionally, by having an applicant re-applies each year. The said he signed up for the class degree takes me.” with choosing recipients and endowment fund with the MWSU recipients have been required to attend because he would love to The requirement by the end of the administering the funds. Foundation, individuals can now donate at least one Eastside Rotary meeting work for a game studio after class was to create content and know the Jack Steury, scholarship chair for to the fund and gain a tax benefit, and per year to report on their academic he graduates. “I now have process of content creation for games, the group, said it was getting more and the club can add to it as well. Steury also progress, and that will continue, as well. something to show on my Britton said. more difficult each year to publicize noted that the Foundation’s investment “Giving is in our blood,” said Shelly portfolio. Companies want to This past summer, he began working the scholarship and get applicants, so strategy will generate interest for the Hulet, president of the St. Joseph see your experience.” with several students, including Carroll, He was on a team with to create a game. They are continuing the club recently voted to secure an fund, and an endowment will ensure that Eastside Rotary. “It’s the core of what we Kaitlyn Gales and Amanda to work on it during the academic year endowment worth more than $50,000 the fund will always be able to provide believe in.” Francis, who both graduated and plan to finish it and publish it next scholarships. with digital animation degrees summer. this past May. The three “One of the main hurdles to get into Ambassadors art up atrium developed a fantasy game set the field is that employers say, ‘have you in a medieval castle. Each published a game?’ With this they can The MWSU Ambassadors’ 2016 art-related silent auction items. Artist- Those who attended were also given student planned out a different say they have that experience, and it will Night at the Ritz, “Picasso’s Night at the in-residence Eric Fuson ’88 created a the opportunity to try their hand at level: Carroll, a “creepy” be a big plus when graduates are trying Ritz,” offered guests a fun and artistic large, Picasso-like painting that hung reproducing Picasso works. Scholarship Peter Britton, assistant professor of dungeon; Francis, a library, or a wizard to get hired,” Britton said. experience while raising money for from the second floor mezzanine. recipients from the 2015-16 academic art, joined the Missouri Western faculty study area; and Gales, outdoors, with a scholarships for nontraditional students. Along with the silent auction, the year assisted at the event, and more than in the fall of 2015 to teach classes in courtyard, maze and tower. Amanda Francis, Kaitlyn Gales and Adam Carroll The Remington Hall atrium on campus reception included Spanish tapas, a cash $11,000 was raised for scholarships. the digital animation program. He “It was a lot of had taught a game design class at a work, but it was was transformed into an art gallery with bar, a raffle and a roaming troubadour “This year’s event was more previous university and thought it would a fun class. It was Picasso reproductions, large murals and who serenaded guests in Spanish. than a reception with great food be a great class for Missouri Western what I expected The MWSU Ambassadors hosted Picasso’s Night at the Ritz in May. and fellowship,” said Diane Holtz, students. He noted that there is a trend and then a lot MWSU Ambassadors liaison. “It was for students wanting to do more game more,” Francis a fun experience that guests will long design, and he hopes to offer the class said. “Missouri remember, and it was all for a good each spring. Western gave me cause.” Most students said it was a very the right tools Next year’s Night at the Ritz has tough class, but that they enjoyed to succeed. They been set for Thursday, May 4, and the it, Britton said. Those who had the gave me a solid theme is Night at the Ritz Hall of Fame. advanced modeling class had an easier foundation of It will be held in the Hall of Fame time with the game designing, so he said digital animation.” Room in the newly renovated Spratt that class would most likely become a “We learned a Memorial Stadium. prerequisite for the game design class. lot of techniques,” The MWSU Ambassadors are The class used Unreal Engine 4, a Carroll said. “Peter a group comprised of campus and suite of game development tools. Britton Britton knows a community members who serve as noted that familiarity with Unreal lot about what a bridge between Missouri Western Engine 4 would prepare students for a goes into game and the area. The Ambassadors focus job that used any game development design; it’s a totally on raising money for scholarships tools. different technique for nontraditional students, and “We were the beta testers for the for games.” class,” joked digital animation major Gales said since 1989, the group has distributed Adam Carroll, referring to the software she took the nearly $388,000 to more than 620 nontraditional students.

8 www.missouriwestern.edu 9 College of Professional Studies snapshot Department of Education: Preparing Teacher Leaders “Changes occur rapidly Whether it’s Common Core, test and federal levels, he and all the published a paper in an international Career preparation score accountability or new technology, education professors love what they do. conference’s proceedings. She also gave in industries such as Dr. Dan Shepherd says Missouri “Everyone in the department is seven presentations of her research Preparing students for well-defined Western’s Department of Education passionate about training the next on learners with multiple disabilities professional roles is a major hallmark health care, construction, is prepared to meet the challenges of generation of teachers,” he said. “Few at conferences in Canada, Chicago, of the College of Professional Studies. manufacturing, criminal change and prepare its students to be things are more important, and we Virginia and Romania. Many students selecting majors in great teachers. The assistant professor believe in what we do.” Currently, there are approximately Professional Studies have very specific justice and legal professions, and chair of the department has seen The 12 professors in the department 400 undergraduate and graduate careers in mind, such as a nurse or and our graduates are a lot of changes once taught students seeking degrees in the teacher. In several programs, students since he began his “We steer young people high school, education field. The department boasts prepared for the realities must demonstrate their knowledge on career as a high on a path they often didn’t middle school or a high placement rate for its graduates, licensure or certification examinations of the workforce they will school English elementary school, and Dr. Shepherd said he is proud that to enter the field. Missouri Western teacher more than know they could go. We love and students say the majority remain in the region. be entering.” graduates maintain high pass rates on 25 years ago, but inspiring young people to see they appreciate Missouri Western’s teacher Evan Ross ‘16 recently earned a Masters of Applied these examinations. - Dr. Kathleen O’Connor, dean Missouri Western’s their professors’ preparation program has been a model Science in Assessment – TESOL from Missouri programs change the possibilities of what good passion, along for programs across the nation, because Western. He teaches at Robidoux Middle School in to continue to meet teaching can mean in the with hearing students start observing in area schools St. Joseph. Hands-on learning Accreditation the directives of the examples from their sophomore year of college. accreditors. lives of their students. Our their experiences. The amount of time in area schools • The School of Nursing and Every department in the College “Changes have Education increases each year and culminates High-demand careers Health Professions has a high- department succeeds at that.” of Professional Studies undergoes been fast and professors in full-time for 14 weeks of their last tech simulation laboratory where Teachers, law enforcement and review by national accreditation furious, but on - Dr. Dan Shepard also speak at semester as a student teacher. Under students can practice technical skills corrections officers, social workers, organizations, state regulatory bodies, balance, the changes conferences and the classroom teacher’s supervision, and engage in life-like scenarios. nurses, physical therapist assistants, and national review such as the U.S. have been good,” he says. write many papers every year. In 2015, the Missouri Western student does fitness, sport, and wellness experts; • Engineering Technology students Army review of the ROTC program. Dr. Shepherd is in his third year as Susan Bashinski, associate professor everything the classroom teacher health information managers; spend significant learning time department chair at Missouri Western. of education, published four articles would do. engineering technologists; and the working with equipment and Even with all the changes from state in three peer-reviewed journals and Dr. Shepherd noted that students military: these are some of the many materials that they will experience Outstanding faculty additionally spend time in area high-demand careers for graduates of in their careers. classrooms for their reading methods, Faculty members in the College the College of Professional Studies, math methods, special education and • Education students begin of Professional Studies are active led by Dr. Kathleen O’Connor, dean. early childhood courses. interacting in area schools during in professional organizations and “We steer young people on a path their sophomore year, applying are selected to present at national they often didn’t know they could go,” teaching methods they have learned and international conferences, and By the numbers Dr. Shepherd said. “We love inspiring in the classroom. publish in peer-reviewed journals. young people to see the possibilities of • 5 departments: Criminal Justice, Faculty conference presentations have • ROTC students engage in weekend what good teaching can mean in the Legal Studies and Social included many in the United States drills and summer training camps lives of their students. Our department Work; Education; Engineering and in countries such as Canada, to complete tactical training succeeds at that.” Technology; Health, Physical exercises and develop leadership and China, Philippines, Romania, Turkey Education and Recreation; and managerial skills. and India. School of Nursing and Health

Professions Kaleb Johnson ‘15 was hired at Lindbergh Elementary School • Reserve Officers’ Training Corps New school and program in St. Joseph shortly before he (ROTC) program since 1971 The School of Nursing and Health Professions was recently established and is graduated with his elementary • 1,750 declared majors and pre- housed within the College of Professional Studies. Fiona Sansone ’94 was hired education degree. majors as the endowed director of the School’s newest program, Population Health • 15 programs and concentration areas Management. Other programs in the school include graduate and undergraduate programs in nursing, and undergraduate programs in health information • Awarded 380 baccalaureate degrees, management and physical therapist assistant. 31 associate degrees and 33 graduate degrees in 2014-15 THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 10 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 11 • Approximately 70 faculty and staff Campus News Education student coordinates math camp This past summer, elementary education major Amanda Harris thought it would be great if she could Walter Cronkite Memorial work with children and practice what launches third performance she was learning in her math methods class, but the elementary schools’ The Walter Cronkite Memorial recently debuted its summer school schedule didn’t line up third live, multimedia performance – “King & Cronkite,” with the Missouri Western class. As which features the words of civil rights leader Martin a foster parent of five, Harris knows Luther King Jr. and the reflections of Cronkite on the how children who don’t understand a civil rights movement. math lesson feel and the peril of falling Dr. Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s president, behind in math. conceived the show and wrote the script. “I know a lot of kids are behind That show, along with “Harry & Walter: Missouri’s in math, and I thought we should Native Sons” and “Cronkite” create a trilogy titled “And do a math camp,” said Harris, who Missouri Western students Mayra Pingleton and Katie Keith work with one of the youth who attended a month- That’s the Way It Is: Cronkite’s Journey.” The shows, is earning her degree online and at long math camp at the Northland campus. The camp was organized and run by Missouri Western education approximately 22 minutes each, have been created by classes at Missouri Western’s Kansas students. staff in the Instructional Media Center and the Western City Northland location. Her professor, Institute. Tara Stoll ’00 and Jake Kelly ’08 of the IMC run the live shows. Charlotte Foster, thought it was a great children. Some of the parents said they by the end of the camp, she had gained Niel Johnson, Jim Korinke and Ken Remmert pose at the Harry S. Truman idea and asked her to coordinate it. didn’t really want to sign their children a lot of confidence from working with Three equity actors, all from the Kansas City, Missouri area, perform in the shows: Jim Korinke plays Cronkite, Presidential Museum and Library in Independence, Missouri. “Harry & Walter: Harris readily agreed. up for summer school because they students at all levels. Ken Remmert plays Truman, and Walter Coppage plays Missouri’s Native Sons” was performed there for more than 150 people, She created flyers and distributed were only behind in math, so they When Harris advertised the King. including Clifton Truman Daniel, Truman’s grandson. Johnson is a reenactor them to area libraries and was happy really appreciated the exclusive focus camp for June 1-30, she didn’t realize The following performances have been scheduled for for the presidential museum and library. Korinke plays Cronkite, and Remmert with the response – 19 children from on math skills. the college course ended June 23. But the shows: plays Truman in “Harry & Walter: Missouri’s Native Sons.” Missouri Western kindergarten to sixth-grade, including “The kids were excited and the she still held it until the 30th, planning artist-in-residence Eric Fuson ’88 created an exhibit for the museum that six home-schooled children, enrolled in parents were thankful,” Harris said. some extra fun activities and ice cream • Sept. 23, “And That’s The Way It Is: Cronkite’s Journey,” examined the parallel lives of Truman and Cronkite and featured Cronkite’s the free math camp that was held June She said she really benefited from for the last week. 7:30 p.m., New York City. Lifetime Achievement Award and a Thomas Hart Benton painting, both courtesy 1-30 at the Northland location. the camp, as well. Going into the “I’m so glad it turned out well,” she • Sept. 25, “Cronkite,” 2:30 p.m., Newseum’s Knight TV of the Cronkite family. Harris, with help from fellow methods course, she wasn’t comfortable said. “It was better than I imagined. I Studio Performance Venue, Washington, D.C. student Cristina Contreras, organized explaining some of the math concepts hope it will continue.” • Nov. 4 and 5, 100th anniversary of Walter Cronkite’s and planned the program for each day. to the older elementary students. But birth, Walter Cronkite Memorial on campus. Harris purchased one of the “necessities” Press Association visits Memorial – snacks – and Foster agreed to The Northwest Missouri Press Association held its annual purchase the second “necessity” – Engineering meeting at Missouri Western, and members were treated to t-shirts. Honors Three a talk about the history of the Memorial and a personal tour The Missouri Western course was from Dr. Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s president. Brenten Davis speaks at the three hours a day Monday through They also viewed “Harry & Walter: Missouri’s Native Sons.” 2016 Engineering Technology Friday in June, and the elementary Advancement Committee annual students attended the last 90 minutes banquet, where he received the Object spotlight every day. The young children worked Student Excellence Award. Also In March 2016, the Memorial accepted a loan of hundreds on math problems and received one- honored at the banquet were Altec of objects from the Cronkite family, which are currently on-one tutoring from the college Inc. employees Tom Richmond undergoing the inventory process. Among the new objects students. The first day Harris planned a and Wade Wetlaufer, recipients is an American flag that was flown in space. It was given to mini-assessment for each student, and of the Engineering Technology Walter Cronkite as a gift of appreciation from a former NASA on subsequent days, campers reviewed Excellence Award. administrator in 2001. what they had learned in the past year and worked on the math skills they will learn in the coming year. Harris said they received great feedback from both the parents and

THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 12 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 13

Centennial Capital Campaign: Transforming Lives Campaign builds momentum Donors establish three new scholarships Students in the School of Fine Arts several improvements in the common next phases, but the work already done Three families have recently Burchett, who served in the U.S. The Carmodys lived in St. Joseph, were excited to see a spruced-up Potter areas – hallways were painted, and new provides momentum for the next steps. established scholarships with gifts to the Army for 20 years, established the Missouri for 16 years, where Jack was Hall when they returned from summer ceiling tiles and carpeting were installed. “We’re very excited about the progress MWSU Foundation. scholarship for ROTC cadets in the the manager of the Peachtree Windows break this fall. Not readily visible but important just the of our Centennial Capital Campaign Karen ’76 and Mark Kerford Military Science program at Missouri and Doors St. Joseph plant. Dorothy The hall, which is a focus of the same, there were improvements to the to date,” Pickman said. “We appreciate established the Kerford Family Western. His wife, Betty, passed away in worked for East Hills Shopping Center Centennial Capital Campaign and home heating and air conditioning systems. our donors’ support and look forward to Education Scholarship, Pete Burchett April 2015. Burchett plans to regularly management and the American Heart of the School of Fine Arts, received The upgrades are laying the future improvements to Potter Hall.” established the Harold “Pete” and contribute until the scholarship reaches Association. When he retired, Jack was groundwork for the next The updates were provided by state Betty Burchett ROTC Scholarship, the endowed $10,000 level. a substitute auto mechanics teacher at phases of the Potter Hall funding that was earmarked for capital and Michael and Mary Plumly of Applicants must be a full-time Hillyard Technical Center, so preference project – a $5 million improvements in common areas, the Cary, North Carolina established the student and a participating cadet in will be given to scholarship applicants classroom renovation donation of the 2015-16 dues from the John ( Jack) and Dorothy Carmody the ROTC program with a GPA of who attended Hillyard. and expansion and a $10 Missouri Western Arts Society and million addition of a private campaign contributions that were Scholarship. 3.0 or above. For information about establishing performance facility and designated for the Potter Hall project. The Kerford scholarship is in honor The third scholarship was established a scholarship for Missouri Western lobby. Pickman noted that work in Potter Hall of Catherine, Edmonia and Doris for full-time incoming freshmen or students, contact Kim Weddle ’00, Jerry Pickman ’85, vice will proceed as funds are donated to Kerford. Catherine and Edmonia spent sophomores in the manufacturing director of development, at (816) 271- president for University the Missouri Western State University their entire careers teaching in St. engineering technology program. 5648. Advancement and Foundation. Joseph, and Doris taught in Kansas City. Karen, who also taught for 33 executive director of the To support the Potter Hall project University’s First Ladies’ Legacy Scholarship MWSU Foundation, and the Centennial Capital Campaign, years in St. Joseph, said she and Mark noted that fundraising call Kim Weddle ’00, director of wanted the scholarship to benefit Joslyn Spears, a May 2016 gradu- is still underway for the Development, at (816) 271-5648. Missouri Western juniors and seniors ate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, is the first recipient of the who are education majors to assist University’s First Ladies’ Legacy them in finishing their degrees. The Faculty award moves toward endowment Scholarship. She received it for her Kerfords donated $10,000 to endow last semester. The scholarship is Jan Mehl recently gave a gift to the Humanities. When he died in 1998, sure it was endowed so the award the scholarship and ensure that it will an endowed fund created in 2015 Missouri Western State University the James Mehl Outstanding Faculty would always be given. She pledged always be available to help students. in memory of Dorsey Looney and Foundation to begin the process of Scholar Award was established in his $4,000 to begin with and hopes to add Preference is given to applicants who Lauren Scanlon. It was established endowing the Missouri Western memory. It has been given to a faculty to it to enable it to reach the $10,000 have graduated from high schools in by a gift from Drs. Robert and Foundation James V. Mehl Award for member every year since. endowment requirement. If anyone is St. Joseph. Laurel Vartabedian for nontraditional Outstanding Faculty Scholarship. Director of Development Kim interested in donating a gift to the fund She hopes that former students will students. Other private donors have Mehl was a long-time faculty Weddle ’00 said the Foundation has to help it reach its endowment, please want to add to the scholarship fund as a given to the fund as well. member and chair of the Department been supporting the award since it contact Weddle at (816) 271-5648 or tribute to the Kerford teachers. of Communication Studies, Theatre and began, but Jan Mehl wanted to make [email protected]. Phonathon called a success Foundation Appreciation Reception Missouri Western’s 2015-16 “Gifts to the Annual Fund truly benefit campus, supporting students to present Approximately 200 attended the MWSU Foundation’s appreciation reception in the spring. Pictured at the event are left, Teresa Harris ’82 and Julie Woods ’96, a member phonathon to support Missouri our students.” their research at conferences, and more. of the Foundation Board of Directors; and right, Kelly and Kathy ’92 Crawford. The reception featured a showcase of student work and research. Western’s Annual Fund was a great She noted that the money raised The 2016-17 phonathon will begin success, according to Rachel Graves ’03, is used to fund scholarships, student this month. Thank you in advance for development officer. programs, bringing guest scholars to your support! More than $82,000 was pledged, which included 154 new donors. Additionally, 280 alumni gave a second gift to the Annual Fund through the phonathon. “We truly appreciate all the support from our generous alumni and supporters throughout the phonathon,” Graves said.

15 Missouri Western at your service Missouri Western at your service Tara Stoll ’00: Advocating in Washington, D.C. Since its earliest beginnings, Missouri Western has been a great community partner when it comes to volunteering. An alumna who is also a Missouri about the legislative agenda and asks for made a tax-free savings account available Whether it’s students, alumni or employees, community service is a cornerstone of Missouri Western’s mission. Western employee spent two days in this year. On the second day, she visited to individuals with disabilities, and the Washington, D.C. this past spring legislators’ offices. ABLE to Work Act will raise the annual advocating for those with Down “It was great because contribution limit for those Sigma Alpha Iota: Service and song Syndrome. it was national. Every who work and earn an Appreciating music and performing Tara Stoll, the video communications state has its own issues, income. community service go hand in hand producer in the Instructional Media but we can all come Stoll said she also spent for one organization on campus. Sigma Center, was invited to be part of a group together and agree on time educating staff in the Alpha Iota, an international music from the Down Syndrome Guild of the things that can Washington offices about fraternity, made sure that community Greater Kansas City, an organization help,” she said. Down Syndrome. service was an integral part of their that provides support and resources for Staff members in “We try to squash those mission last year. For their efforts, they individuals with Down Syndrome and the offices she visited old stereotypes about what were awarded the 2016 Excellence in their families. She has been a member were friendly and Down Syndrome means,” Philanthropy Award from the MWSU and a volunteer since her daughter, supportive of her cause, Stoll said. “We’re just trying Foundation. The group’s advisor, Carol Olivia, was born with Down Syndrome she said. to live our lives like everyone Hare, also received the Outstanding in 2008. The advocacy focus Tara Stoll ‘00 in Washington, D.C. else. Our kids might be Advisor award from the Student “I felt empowered. I felt like I was this year was to ask different, but they deserve a Government Association. making a difference for my family,” Stoll legislators to co-sponsor the bipartisan chance at independence.” “Our national objective is ‘service said. “The energy in that city is amazing.” ABLE to Work Act to increase the She said she would love to return for through music and community,’ and we The trip was part of the annual amount of yearly assets that a disabled the Buddy Walk on Washington next thought it was important to branch out National Down Syndrome Society’s person receiving federal benefits and is year and advocate again for those with into the community,” said Maddie Marx, Buddy Walk on Washington Advocacy employed can save in an ABLE account. Down Syndome. Marissa Sunderland and Maddie Marx accept the MWSU Foundation’s Excellence in Philanthropy Award from Conference. On the first day, Stoll and The ABLE (Achieving a Better Life “I have endless energy when it comes an elementary education major from board member Pat Dillon. Kansas City, Missouri who served as others from across the United States Experience) Act that was passed in 2014 to advocating for my kids.” met with the national group to learn president of the fraternity last year. “We really didn’t need to MWSU Community Last fall, the group met and decided Service Facts to add a service requirement to their make it a requirement. Griffon Edge goals, and each of the 10 members We all like to do • Students and employees give was required to complete five hours of more than 120,000 hours of Since 2003. the Griffon Edge orientation program has community service per semester. community service.” featured a component of community service. In 2015 “We really didn’t need to make it a community service each year. and 2016, many of the students, nearly 1,000 each - Maddie Marx, president, Sigma Alpha Iota requirement,” Marx said. “We all like to • Every year, Missouri Western year, volunteered in downtown St. Joseph, Missouri, painting murals, painting parking garages and do community service.” hosts more than 5,000 By the end of the academic year, the said Marissa Sunderland, a psychology picking up litter. group had logged 199 service hours major from Kearney, Missouri who elementary, middle or high This year, the Alumni Association launched Griffon volunteering at the Department of is currently serving as the group’s school students on campus for Day of Service, held on the same day that Griffon Music’s Madrigal Feaste, visiting nursing president. “It makes you feel like you workshops, camps and clinics. Edge students performed community service. homes, working in the campus food accomplish something, and it’s so pantry, ushering at theatre events and rewarding.” • Last year, Missouri Western “ helping out at a Girl Scout merit badge The fraternity also held a 35th hosted more than 13,500 guests Only a life lived for others is day. The women also raised funds for anniversary party to celebrate when it for conferences, camps, events their national philanthropy, People to started on campus, and they learned People. about their history from alumni, and meetings. a lifeworthwhile.” “It’s good for college students to get some of them charter members, who • Missouri Western has hosted out in the community and do service,” attended. - Albert Einstein both its Lifetime Sports Academy for children and the Chemathon for high schoolers since 1973.

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Missouri Western at your service

Cayetana Maristela ’09: Building a library Brett Goodwin ’98: Coming Events When Cayetana Maristela ’09 left teacher for English language learners at with the idea that a second floor could her hometown of Pililla in the province Indian Creek and Redbridge elementary be added in the future. Hopefully, in the Championship Coach Sept. 13 23rd annual R. Dan Boulware of Rizal, Philippines in 1974, the city schools in Kansas City, Missouri. near future, she says. Convocation on Critical Issues of approximately 60,000 had no library. She has been shipping books that Currently, Maristela’s cousin and In today’s world of “everyone is a The game went into double featuring political commentator Cokie Every time she visited since, she kept were donated to her relatives in Pililla her niece run the library, holding story winner,” and everyone gets a trophy for overtime before the Benton girls sealed Roberts, “Insider’s View of the 2016 thinking she would see a library. Finally, for the past five years. The books were hour, arts and crafts, and tutoring every participating, a St. Joseph high school the deal. Goodwin noted that his two Presidential Election,” 10 a.m. in the in 2011, she decided that if she wanted donated by families from her schools day when school is out for the summer, girls’ basketball team showed the state seniors scored 34 of the 42 points in M.O. Looney Complex, free and open to the public. a library there, she would have to build and her fellow parishioners at St. Francis March to early June. what a true winner and a real champion the championship game. looks like. And a Missouri “We were two kids down it herself. And that’s just what she did. Xavier Parish in St. Joseph, Missouri. As a long-time teacher, Maristela Sept. 17 Griffons vs. Central Western alumnus coached and we found a way.” She took a sabbatical from her job She also received funding from her knows the importance of books and the Missouri, Family Day and returned to Pililla in July 2014. In church to pay to ship several boxes of the value of reading, and she couldn’t rest them every step of the One of the first to give Golden Griffon Marching February 2015, her long-time dream of books. until her hometown had a library. And if way. him a hug when the game Band reunion a library for the children of Pililla came At first, Maristela thought they could children don’t return a book, that’s okay, In March 2016, was won was his daughter, Benton High School girls’ who is a cheerleader for true, thanks to Maristela, her brother, use one of the buildings on her family’s she says. “I think they probably needed basketball team, guided Benton. Goodwin said that Oct. 1 Griffons vs. Northeastern State, her brother’s property in Pililla for that book.” In February 2015, her long- by Coach Brett Goodwin made the moment more Hall of Fame Game friends who a library. However, her This past July, Maristela returned to ’98, won the Class 4 special. Oct. 14 Alumni Golf Outing helped build time dream of a library for brother, an architectural Pililla to make sure things are going well state championship Goodwin played both Alumni Awards Banquet it, and many, the children of Pililla came engineer in Indiana, at the library. She says she would like to and finished with an baseball and basketball many people deemed the building obtain funding to hire someone to cook undefeated 31-0 season. as a freshman at Benton who donated true, thanks to Maristela, unsafe. It was demolished, healthy snacks or a light lunch, and other Coach Brett Goodwin ’98 Oct. 14-16 & 20-22 “The 25th “It was a lot of luck, High School, but focused Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” books. (The and a new building for needs vary: sometimes she needs books, but we worked incredibly on basketball for the next student theatre performance, children learn her brother, her brother’s the library was built sometimes she needs funds to ship the hard for it,” Goodwin said. “The girls three years. In his senior year, the Potter Hall Theater English in friends who helped build it, on the site, thanks to books. Maristela says she would love to put in the time and effort it takes to basketball team lost in triple overtime their schools, and many, many people who funding from Maristela see volunteers from the United States have a season like that.” in the quarterfinals to miss out on a Oct. 15 Homecoming parade, Arts, so the books and her brother. work in the library as part of a mission It was about midway through the trip to state. That makes winning the Beats and Treats, reunions, are written in donated books. The property offers trip. 2015-16 season that Goodwin said he championship twice and making it to and game vs. Pittsburg State English.) room for children to But no matter what, thanks to began to believe the team might see state four times as a coach extra sweet, University (see brochure) Maristela graduated from Missouri run, and there is even a small kitchen so Cayetana Maristela, Pililla now has a a repeat of the 30-0 2006-07 season, he said. Western with a Graduate Certificate they can serve snacks to those who visit. library. except he knew that this team could Goodwin transferred to Missouri Nov. 3 48-Hour Film Festival screening, in the Teaching of Writing and is a Also, the one-story library was built play a total of 31 games. Western from Graceland in Iowa to open to the public. “This is a rare thing. When we did play basketball for longtime Missouri it in 2006-07, I said there will never be Western Coach Tom Smith. The team Nov. 5 Griffons vs. Emporia State, “ another undefeated season,” Goodwin played in the NCAA tournament two Senior Day We make a living by what we said. “That just doesn’t happen. But the years and had three seasons with 21- way we were able to do it again made it plus wins. Dec. 1-4 “Blur” student theatre that much more remarkable.” Goodwin said he appreciated his performance. Kemper Recital The championship game against high school basketball coach Mike Hall, Spratt Hall get, but we make a life the Mary Institute and Saint Louis Ziesel, Graceland coach Rich Harrop, Country Day School was nothing and Smith, who each brought different short of amazing. Goodwin’s #6 player, strengths to their coaching. He said by what we give.” a freshman, was injured in the semi- he learned from each and applied the See gogriffons.com for all fall - Winston Churchill final game, and one of the starters lessons to his own style. sports schedules. was injured five minutes into the “My days at Missouri Western are See missouriwestern.edu/alumni championship game. still very dear to me. I wouldn’t be for event details. where I am today without them.” See mwsutix.com for theatre production times and tickets.

THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 18 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 19

Griffon Sports Griffon Sports

Video scoreboard: Go big or go home 2016 Athletics Hall of Fame Class announced Seven former student athletes will for three seasons, including Missouri also helped lead his team to the NCAA be inducted into the Athletics Hall of Western’s first-ever Division II Playoff Division II tournament. Fame class of 2016: Michael Cobbins team in 2006. Pendergras was a member of the ’07, George Hayward ’75, Jill ( Johnson) Hayward is being recognized for 1997 and 1998 volleyball teams that Brock ’08, Eric Keeler, Sherri (Lang) Meritorious Service. He lettered three went a combined 46-21. She was named Pendergras ’02, Eric McDowell ’04 times on the football team between first-team All-MIAA both seasons and and Lindsey (Predovich) Christenson 1970 and 1974 and once on the baseball the MIAA Commissioner’s Academic ’07. All seven will be inducted during team. He went on to spend 42 years team following the 1998 season. She led a banquet on Sept. 30 and will receive as a football official. After 17 years in the team in kills both seasons, with 486 their rings during a ceremony at halftime Division I and II, he served as an NFL in 1997 and 464 in 1998. Her 3.66 kills of the Oct. 1 football game against official for 25 years. His career there per set in 1998 rank third all-time at Northeastern State. included 23 playoff games, four league Missouri Western. Cobbins was a three-time first-team championship games and Super Bowl McDowell transformed from walk- All-MIAA defensive lineman for the XLI. In all, Heyward worked 425 NFL on to All-American at defensive end, Griffon football team. He was named games before retiring after this past eventually breaking the career sacks honorable mention All-American by season. Throughout his career, Hayward record at Missouri Western. He earned Don Hansen Football Gazette in 2005 has continued to serve as an ambassador first-team All-MIAA honors in 2001 and 2006 and D2Football.com in 2006. for Missouri Western and has been a and 2003 and was also a second-team He ranks second all-time at Missouri longtime member of the Gold Coat Don Hansen All-American both Western with 50 career tackles for loss. Victory Club. seasons. McDowell was twice named Cobbins was a captain on the team Brock was a four-year standout for All-Region. His 15 sacks in 2003 are the women’s basketball program, earning still a school record, and his 41 career It’s big and it’s on campus. Missouri All-MIAA honors three times. She was tackles for loss are fourth all-time. Western is now the home of one of the Missouri Western’s also named to the MIAA All-Academic Christenson was a standout player largest video scoreboards of all schools Video Scoreboard Facts: team each of those three seasons. In for the softball team and a member of in NCAA Division II. 2008, she was named second team the program’s first-ever NCAA Regional Back in June, eight flatbed trailers • One of the largest video scoreboards in NCAA Division II and larger than Daktronics All-South Central Region. qualifier in 2006. She was a two-time caravanned from Corona, California to She ranks fifth all-time at Missouri first-team All-MIAA selection, as St. Joseph with the video scoreboard Faurot Field’s board at the University of Missouri Western with 1,472 career points. Her a designated player in 2004 and a components. The St. Joseph News-Press 330 made free throws are fourth all-time, utility player in 2006. She was named and KNPN even sent a reporter, Alex • Largest scoreboard in the MIAA and her 734 career rebounds are sixth. MIAA Freshman of the Year in 2004 Flippin, to travel with the trucks and Keeler was an integral part of after earning MIAA Player of the • 2,500 square-foot display report live on the road. After overnight beginning an unprecedented run of Week honors twice. In 2005 and 2006, stops in Las Vegas and Silverthorne, • Missouri Western becomes one of success for the men’s basketball program. Christenson was named second-team Colorado (where they visited alumni nine MIAA members to have a video Following the 1996-97 season, he NFCA All-Region as a designated entrepreneurs), the components arrived board at its football facility was named first-team All-MIAA and player. Her name appears all over the on June 9, where a press conference and second-team NABC/Sears All-South record book as career leader in games celebration were held. • Craig’s gift is the largest by an Central Region. He led the team in played (238), games started (236), at bats Steve Craig, founder and CEO of individual in the history of Griffon scoring both seasons, averaging 14.8 (751) and RBIs (164). Her 252 career Craig Realty Group who contributed Athletics points per game in 1995-96 and 18.2 hits, 56 career doubles and 383 total $1.1 million of the estimated $2.6 This is the view from the new Stadium Club in the in 1996-97. Keeler finished third in bases are second all-time. In the circle, million project, coordinated the caravan have such an outstanding addition to the the MIAA that season with 4.9 assists Christenson ranks second all-time with and was on hand for the celebration “Steve Craig’s mantra, ‘Go big or stadium.” renovated Spratt Memorial Stadium. The club doubled in size from the previous one. per game and 2.0 steals per contest. He 545 strikeouts. when it arrived on campus. Also go home,’ has guided the entire video Private donors have pledged the rest of attending were Alex Birner and Louis board process from its very beginning,” the cost through the Centennial Capital Troiani from MultimediaLED, the said Dr. Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Campaign. The video board debuted group that conceived and engineered Western’s president. “We are so grateful Sept. 1, when Griffon football hosted the design of the scoreboard. for his vision and support, and proud to University of Nebraska-Kearney. THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 20 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 21

Griffon Sports Griffon Sports

Softball sweeps MIAA championships Athletics adds Women’s golf competes at national championship in record-breaking season It was a season for the ages – the six new sports Griffon women’s golf team qualified for the Division II National Championships At its June 2016 meeting, the Board in Aurora, Colorado. The team finished of Governors approved the addition of six 12th at the national event with new sports to Missouri Western’s athletics outstanding freshman Shi Qing Ong program: men’s and women’s indoor track finishing tied for 34th, individually. and field, men’s and women’s outdoor The team made history when it track and field, and men’s and women’s earned its first-ever bid to the NCAA cross country. The sports will begin Division II Central Regional, also. There, competing in 2017-18. the Griffons won a playoff to finish The addition of the six sports involves third and qualify for nationals. Ong was funding 18 scholarships and hiring a head named MIAA Freshman of the Year, coach, assistant coach and three graduate first team All-MIAA, and All-Region. assistants. Because NCAA Division II Madison Romjue and Celine Lim were relies on a partial-scholarship model to named honorable mention All-MIAA. 2016 women’s golf team administer athletics-based financial aid, Greg Dillon is head coach. 2016 softball championship team the additional expenses are projected to be offset by the increase in tuition and fee Great season for It’s customary for Griffon softball to MIAA Coach of the Year award. She revenue from up to 70 additional student Jordan and Thorup honored at banquet have an outstanding season, but the 2016 also earned her 500th win this season. athletes. Griffon tennis Griffons exceeded expectations. Picked Third baseman Katie Klosterman was Griffon football’s Michael Jordan was (cheer squad), Janie Smith (softball), to finish fourth in the MIAA, Coach named first-team All-MIAA, first-team A record-breaking 2014-15 named Male Student Athlete of the Year Cosimo Cannella (baseball), Sydney Jen Trotter’s team earned both the NFCA All-Region and MIAA Co- campaign for Griffon tennis was and volleyball’s Jessie Thorup Female Andrews (soccer), Kevin Thomas MIAA regular season and tournament defensive Player of the Year. Morgan eclipsed by another in 2015-16. First- Student Athlete of the Year at the 17th (men’s basketball) and Sarafina Handy championships, finishing the season Rathmann, center, was named first-team year coach Shawn Becker led the team Annual MWSU/St. Joseph News-Press (women’s basketball). 45-13. All-MIAA and second-team NFCA to a 10-6 overall record with a 5-5 Student-Athlete Honors Banquet. The Tom Smith Career Achievement The team’s 23 MIAA wins were the All-Region. Both started in all 58 games. GOLD COAT VICTORY FUND mark in MIAA play. The team finished The two were selected from 11 Award went to Jordan and Yomi Alli sixth in the MIAA standings and nominees who were named for each (football), Raphael Spencer (football), most ever for the program and tied for Taylor Hamilton was named second- Sign up today to support the most ever in MIAA history. The team NFCA All-Region. qualified for the MIAA Tournament sport: Yasmine El Ghazi (women’s Jordan Chohon and Thorup (volleyball) Griffons’ 45 wins was the third most The season ended with a 2-2 Missouri Western for the second straight season. Three tennis), Ryan Hand (men’s golf ), Shi and LaQuinta Jefferson (women’s in program history, and the team broke weekend at the NCAA Division II Athletics! Griffons were named Honorable Qing Ong (women’s golf ), Leslie Grier basketball). Mention All-MIAA. program records for doubles, runs scored Central Regional where the team fell Student Athletes of the Year Michael Jordon and Jessie Thorup with Athletic Director Kurt McGuffin and RBIs. Nine Griffons were named in the championship game to Southern (816) 271-5904 All-MIAA, the second most in program Arkansas University. gogriffons.com Illum joins football history, and Trotter picked up her fourth coaching team

Coach Verduzco reaches 500; baseball earns third regional appearance The Griffons hired former Evangel University head coach Brenton Illum In his 17th season leading Griffon With the program’s second most Division All-Region honors. David to guide their defensive line, but head baseball, Coach Buzz Verduzco reached wins ever, 38, the Griffons earned their Glaude was named first-team All- coach Jerry Partridge ’86 will serve as his 500th win on May 14 at the MIAA third-ever appearance in the NCAA MIAA, first-team All-Region, and defensive coordinator. Tournament. The Griffons defeated Division II Central Regional. The team second-team All-American by the Illum had served as defensive Emporia State 6-5 to earn the longtime was knocked out of the regional by top National Collegiate Baseball Writers. coordinator under Missouri Western’s coach his milestone. The next day, seeded St. Cloud State University, but He was twice named MIAA Hitter of current offensive coordinator, Todd the team earned a spot in the MIAA broke a number of offensive records the Week. Landon Mason was named Throckmorton, when he was head Tournament Championship game. along the way. first-team All-MIAA and second-team coach at Fort Lewis College in Eleven Griffons were also named All-Region. Durango, Colorado. All-MIAA with four adding NCAA

THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 22 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 23

Alumni News Alumni News

Finally, several other members of number and variety of programs in the traveled to South Africa, India, the group are so captivated by my little Republic of Georgia (macgeorgia.org). Mongolia, Thailand, Haiti, Peru and all Rockin’ retirement ukulele banjo that they are acquiring I traveled to Dzevri, Georgia in 2013, over the U.S.to work on Habitat homes, one, too!” 2014, and 2015, and plan to return this one week at a time. Galen added that he retired in 1998 fall, helping English teachers teach “When I’d be talking to kids in Making the most of and moved to Texas when his wife, English and offering teacher education my job about nature, we’d talk about Diane, got a new job there. He did some assistance. Georgia wants to join habitats,” she said. “I was trying to save your golden years consulting work until she retired and Western Europe and the U.S., but to animal habitats and I realized that then they both did consulting together do so they need to discard their Soviet/ habitats for humans were important, for a few years. Russian occupation of 70 years and the too. Folks don’t do well without a decent Tips for a happy retirement “I fiddle some (every Sunday learning of Russian. Learning English is place to live.” afternoon at a local venue IF I want) a necessity. She currently lives in Wichita, Kansas Claudia (Hinton) James ’89 says “It all comes back to the continuity any more information about it. Shortly and play in the local senior citizens A problem exists because the teachers and serves on its Habitat for Humanity when you’re thinking about retirement of life. People need a personal mission after, I received the following article ukulele group, as well as at the church,” of English only know ‘book English,’ Board of Directors. and how you will fill your days, think and purpose,” she says. “You have to from him: Galen said. “I volunteer one morning a and many do not know the correct This past summer, Lorrie volunteered about Steven Covey, known for his know yourself and position yourself Ukuleles are still hot! week in the church office doing whatever pronunciation of English words nor three weeks for the U.S. Fish and bestseller, “Seven Habits of Highly throughout your life based on who you “The Ukulele Club photo in the the administrative assistant needs done, everyday conversational English. So, my Wildlife Service in Washington, D.C., Effective People.” The author has also are. I’d definitely encourage people to centennial issue caught my eye. Several and I lead chapel for the Parents Day task has been to work with students and and also worked a week with the Carter written about how to determine your take that spiritual journey that Covey of the young women were holding Out kids.” teachers in learning verbal English.” Work Project in Memphis, Tennessee, purpose in life and how to create a suggests.” ukulele banjos – and I have one! And which is part of Habitat for Humanity. personal mission statement. I play it daily. For several years I have Dr. Jerry Aschermann Lorrie Beck ’81 “I always try to have my vacations James, who is a presenter/curriculum Galen Clark ’54 played in senior citizen’s ukulele groups Dr. Jerry Aschermann, professor Lorrie Beck ’81 spent her entire include a component of giving back,” developer and owner of James Editor’s note: Shortly after the and often carry a ukulele with me when emeritus who taught in the Department career serving others, and that didn’t she said. Educational Meetings and Seminars, centennial issue of the Missouri Western I attend church meetings. My dentist of Education from 1971 to 2004, sent change when she retired in 2014. Lorrie is also an avid volunteer Inc., says retirement should be an Magazine came out in January 2015, also plays and she attends the same the following about his interesting After graduating with a Bachelor for Kansas Food Bank’s Food 4 Kids extension of your personal mission Galen Clark ’54, sent me an email: congregation my wife and I do. We retirement activity: of Science in Leisure Management program, the Birthday Backpack statement, “an expression of who you “When I turned to page three my eyes discovered a deacon in the church also - Outdoor Recreation, Beck spent program, Wichita Alternative Gift are. You need to figure out your heart’s were immediately drawn to the photo plays. Approaching our pastor, we asked two years as a Peace Corps volunteer Market (alternativegifts.org), and her desire.” at the lower left. I never knew that for a room where we could practice and in Lesotho, Africa. Combined with church. Like many people, she had to think the Junior College had a ukulele band. invite others to join us. We pitched it as an internship while a student, her When she was growing up, Lorrie’s about her retirement sooner than she When I showed the photo to my wife a fellowship opportunity and a learning volunteerism helped her secure a job father was in the military so the family expected when the recession caused a she remarked, ‘That’s just like your experience. Our pastor jumped on the with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers moved quite a bit. When it was time downturn for her business. James says ukulele banjo.’ If you can find out the suggestion and we found the church’s that turned into a three-decade public to go to college, the family was living she wasn’t ready to retire, and she went date or any other information about the music director wanted us to form a service career. in Gower, Missouri. Lorrie enrolled at through a slump. photo on page three, I would like to read group. In 1993, she began working for the Missouri Western, but she took some “I was forced into looking at myself about it.” At our first meeting we had people U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and was time off after her first year. She returned and my life and what I wanted to do,” The photo was from the 1921 who didn’t have a ukulele but who stationed in Missouri, Alaska, Kansas when her sister, Denise Beck ’81, started she said. “I thought, ‘What do I want the yearbook, and the caption information wanted to learn. And people keep and Colorado throughout her career. She attending. Denise graduated with an next 10 years to look like?’” was fairly slim: “Uke Club.” I emailed showing up to join us. I’m the only retired in 2014 to care for her accounting degree and recently She decided to semi-retire and Clark back and told him I couldn’t find retiree. Besides the dentist we have a mother, Shirley Beck ’71. retired after a 34-year career Dr. Jerry Aschermann start working on her bucket list, CPA, a school teacher, a church One of the main recipients with DuPont. She assists which includes learning more about elder, a church trustee, choir of Lorrie’s volunteer time Lorrie in the care of their photography, traveling with People to members and a teenager. “What do retired professors do other has been Habitat for mother. People and traveling in general, and So far we have accompanied than sitting around reading books? Humanity. In 1997, she “I really had a great time volunteering with civic groups. “I want the church choir, presented For several years, I was busy gardening was driving to Florida at Missouri Western,” said to utilize my skills to give back.” special music for worship and downsizing that included moving and decided to visit a Lorrie, who played softball, James notes that “making the most services, provided the music from St. Joseph to Union, Kentucky (15 demonstration site for basketball and volleyball. of retirement” looks different for each for one of the Christmas Eve minutes from downtown Cincinnati). Habitat for Humanity “I loved the coaches. person. services, and led the worship In 2012, an opportunity was in Americus, Georgia. We were a close-knit service. presented by the McLain Association Since then, she has family.” Uke Club from the 1921 Griffon Yearbook for Children, an organization that has a 24 www.missouriwestern.edu Alumni News Alumni News

Yevgeniy Kondratenko ’03: Engineering excellence For Dr. Yevgeniy Kondratenko ’03, knowledge and current skills. My job “The chemistry department his experience in graduate school at definitely requires embracing a lifelong had excellent equipment and small the University of Illinois at Urbana- learning approach.” classes,” he said. “The combination of Champaign made him realize that he He says he still uses the knowledge small group learning, direct access to had received a great undergraduate he learned at Missouri Western in his professors for help and an abundance education in the Department of job, even pulling his undergraduate of hands-on practical experience Chemistry at Missouri Western. textbooks off the shelf at times to help definitely helped me develop very After graduation, Dr. Kondratenko solve a problem. strong scientific skills. Most semesters was accepted into the PhD program in At BP, Dr. Kondratenko has received I was doing research projects with chemical engineering at the University three managerial awards for excellent different professors trying to get a of Illinois, which was ranked in the project delivery and won second place at broad exposure to different areas of top 10 in the nation. He said he BP’s TechnoFest poster competition for chemistry.” had to catch up a little because his young engineers. As a student, Dr. Kondratenko also undergraduate degree was in chemistry Dr. Kondratenko was born and presented his research at a number of St. Joseph Junior College a cappella choir in front of the Missouri buiding at the World’s Fair, New York and the graduate degree was in raised in Belarus, a small country regional and national conferences, and City, 1940. chemical engineering. However, his between Russia and Poland and north he completed two summer research hands-on lab skills made up for the of Ukraine, and spent his free time internships at two different universities. slight lag. “I thought the science and exploring nearby parks and forests He also earned minors in physics, math A look back “It was interesting to watch my with his parents, Vladimir and Yelena and business while at Missouri Western. peers from MIT, Caltech, Cornell, math departments were Kondratenko. This experience sparked All those experiences, he says, helped Throughout its history, Missouri When he had had his fill, he said, ‘Look, Stanford, and other high-ranking in great shape when I was his interest in learning more about him solidify his interest in pursuing a Western and the St. Joseph Junior if that choir is so damn good, why don’t universities. They were definitely ahead science and nature. PhD in chemical engineering. College have always been renowned you bring them to the World’s Fair and of me in engineering theory, but they at Missouri Western, but “My mom always loved to read, “The combination of research, for their music programs. One piece of sing in the Temple of Religion? You’re had to catch up in practical laboratory now they are absolutely and I was blessed with a large library Alchemist Club events, and 18 credit evidence of that is the Junior College’s from the Show-Me state. Deliver!’ experience,” Dr. Kondratenko said. “My of books. In our book collection we hours during most semesters definitely a cappella choir’s performance at the Not to be outdone, I spread it on time in Illinois definitely highlighted phenomenal.” had an encyclopedia set that covered provided an excellent and diverse 1939-40 World’s Fair in New York City. thick-Texas-wise. the strength of undergraduate education broad areas of science and engineering. amount of activities,” Dr. Kondratenko Raymond “Pop” Elliott, music ‘Why, man, we wouldn’t consider - Dr. Yevgeniy Kondratenko ’03 at Missouri Western. It made me I became fascinated with physical said. “Visiting Baptist Student Union teacher and director at the Junior it without an official invitation.’ appreciate all the extracurricular sciences and spent countless hours and attending Honors Program events College from 1930-46, created the a (Hundreds of groups were begging activities and all the laboratory work responsibilities fall into two major reading and learning.” were two nonscientific activities that cappella group in 1933, and by 1940, for the opportunity.) ‘That might be that I was able to do there.” categories: design and troubleshooting Toward the end of high school, he I enjoyed on top of my chemical there were 60 members. He told the arranged,’ Arthur retorted. ‘My uncle is At the University of Illinois, he of oil and gas equipment. met an American family, Rick and endeavors. I can definitely say I had a story of the invitation and subsequent on the board.’ was named Outstanding Teaching “While oil and gas has been Patsy Hartman from Dekalb, Missouri, blast at Missouri Western!” trip to the World’s Fair in his book, The invitation came in January of Assistant and Outstanding Graduate produced for more than a century, it through the Baptist Association. They Amidst classes, labs and outside “Out of the Night the Angels Sang.” 1940.” Research Mentor. He also presented his is still very challenging,” he said. “Just helped him come to the United States, activities, Dr. Kondratenko met his wife, Below is an excerpt: The choir took the train to New research at the annual graduate research because everything works great today and he enrolled at Missouri Western. Lanell, at Missouri Western, and they “In 1938, I had met and hobnobbed York and gave two performances in the symposiums of the department and won doesn’t mean that a year from now “I always felt a part of their family,” married shortly before graduation. They with Arthur Keegan in Chicago while Temple of Religion, one of which was for three consecutive years. everything will work just as well. Like a Dr. Kondratenko said. “I can definitely have two children, London and Justin. attending a two-week conference on televised. Today, he is a process engineering deflating balloon, the well is a dynamic say that family is not limited by the When he’s in the area, Dr. school music materials. Arthur was By the start of 1942 with enrollment subject matter expert at BP America – system. Flow of fluids from the well family tree.” Kondratenko tries to visit campus. director of music at the Lincoln High down because of WWII, Elliott noted BP U.S. L48 Onshore in Houston. He changes all the time and we have to Dr. Kondratenko began at Missouri He is impressed with all the changes, School in Jersey City, New Jersey. Every that the chorus had dwindled to a started his career at BP as a process/ Western as a biology major, thinking he especially to the science and math constantly adjust the equipment.” day I bombarded him with the wonders quartet, and that was the last year for facilities engineer after earning his That, he says, is what keeps his job wanted to be a medical doctor, but he facilities. of the Junior College a cappella choir. the a cappella group under him. doctorate in chemical engineering interesting and challenging. “I enjoy the quickly realized that he really loved the “I thought the science and math from the University of Illinois in 2009. fact that I always have to look ahead research environment, and he switched departments were in great shape when I Dr. Kondratenko noted that his job and never solely rely on my existing to chemistry instead. was at Missouri Western, but now they are absolutely phenomenal.” THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 26 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 27

Alumni News Alumni News

From the Alumni Association President Alumna checks item off her bucket list Dear Fellow Alumni, Of course, When Adrienne Collins ’14 as Christine, the lead. In the opera, Collins called the Strasbourg This is a great time Homecoming is scheduled saw a notice last fall about an Christine had a humble upbringing and performance “liberating. I felt like I to be associated with for Oct. 9-16, 2016. Our opportunity that included the words her father was deceased. could spread my wings and soar.” She Missouri Western; so many theme this year is “Griffons “international travel,” “bucket list” and “Music is Christine’s way of hopes the exposure of her performance good things are happening. Bring Home the Gold.” “performing,” she knew she had to honoring and remembering her dad, when the episode airs will lead to more As the first Association This is a great opportunity pursue it. Answering the call led her and I feel a close connection with that acting and singing opportunities for her. president living outside to show your spirit as well to being featured on a reality show story,” Collins said. After her filming, the production the St. Joseph/Kansas City as reconnect with your and performing center stage at the Her father passed away when she company was heading to Paris to film area, I am excited to serve fellow graduates. Many Strasbourg Opera House in Strasbourg, was 13 years old. “It’s been difficult, he another episode of “100 Things,” and you this year and travel the activities are planned France last April. was my #1 fan,” she said. “Not having Collins had been invited to travel with 300 miles to participate around Homecoming “This was him here makes me work twice as hard, them. She spent three days touring in our events. Missouri Mary (Sprake )Vaughan ’79 so be sure to watch your an unbelievable and I honor him when I pursue my Paris before heading home. Western has given me so email, mail and Griff Gab dreams. That’s what he would much that I am totally happy to give back. e-newsletter. A brochure with all the have wanted me to do.” “… she’s accompanied by a As my term begins, my major goal is to information is also included with this DEFY liked her story and pianist and you’ll see she’s get more alumni involved in the University magazine. interviewed her several times. and the events planned by the Association. Additionally, alumni activities and Homecoming 2016 In February, they told her actually incredible. She’ll Last year we developed a strategic plan, events are planned around the Griffon to get her passport ready to blow your socks off. Hey, and the board worked diligently to make sports teams. Missouri Western has some Don’t miss out on fly to France in April. They the plan a great working document for the of the best teams in the state and country; had selected 26 people for I cried, she was just that the fun – the show out of nearly 1,000 Association. Involvement is very important watch for opportunities to see them in powerful. I kid you not, she to the board and the University – we are action. October 9-16 applications, and Collins’ was the 20th episode. only as strong as our membership. Our alumni are Missouri Western’s sings like an angel.” Her application noted that she As part of the involvement, we will be greatest assets. No university is strong We would love to have you join wanted to perform at the Palais Garnier, - Sebastian Terry, host of “100 Things” sending out special notifications on events without having passionate and committed us for our 2016 Homecoming the opera house in Paris that was the and activities. The board is also planning alumni. So make a plan today to get celebration! All the information is in setting for Gaston Leroux’s 1910 novel, Collins, who had never before webinars on everything from social media involved, show your spirit and be a part the brochure that was mailed with “Phantom of the Opera.” When that traveled overseas, said she would not to getting your first job, interviewing and of this outstanding University and alumni this issue. Details are also available wasn’t available, DEFY procured the have explored the opportunity to staying active after retirement. These will association. You can be a part of the use of the Strasbourg Opera House in perform in France had it not been help make the alumni base stronger and excitement! at missouriwestern.edu/alumni, experience,” said Collins, who graduated Strasbourg, France, for her performance. for her four semesters of French at help them gain additional skills. We are Sincerely, or call (816) 271-5646. with a music vocal performance degree. Collins arrived on April 12, and the Missouri Western. Her professors, always open for new ideas, so please share “It was without a doubt a dream episode was filmed April 15. The opera Dr. Susie Hennessy and Claudine your thoughts. come true.” house provided a headdress for her, a Evans, gave her tips on navigating Paris Mary Vaughan ’79 The notice she saw was from surprise makeover and a tour, all while and suggestions on what she should see. DEFY Media, a production company the cameras were rolling. The show is Collins also credits Dr. Susan Carter, Alumni Choir headquartered in New York City. hosted by Sebastian Terry, who wrote professor of music and director of vocal According to its website, DEFY Media the 2009 book, “100 Things.” studies, for the training and confidence Last spring, the Department of Music hosted 60 is the top creator, distributor and owner “It made me feel like a queen for the to sing opera. “I would not have done alumni for a day of music making in the Fulkerson of millennial-focused digital content. day,” she said. “Anything that I hadn’t it without Dr. Carter. This experience Center. The purpose of the day was two-fold: to The company was seeking submissions thought of, they did, and it made it would not have been possible without honor alumni and to honor long-time professor for an original series it was creating, the best day ever.” the support I receive from my alma Frank Thomas. The singers rehearsed for a total “100 Things,” to air on go90 and The highlight, of course was mater. of four hours, commencing with a public concert YouTube. They were looking for people performing “Queen of the Night’s “It was like living a dream. I look shared with the Missouri Western student with a “unique #1 bucket list item” and Vengeance” aria from Mozart’s “The back at it now and think, ‘Did that ensembles. Pictured are the three guest conductors: a compelling story to go with it. Collins Magic Flute,” which Collins performed really happen?’ It was such an enriching, Kim (Evans) Carson ’08, Charles Bruffy ’81 (right) knew immediately what she wanted to in on campus in 2013. life-giving trip.” and Steve Perry ’83 (left), with Thomas (center) and write about on her application. “A lot of the crew had never heard Dr. Elise Hepworth, assistant professor of music and As a freshman at Missouri opera before, and they loved it,” she This article is dedicated to the memory of director of Choral Studies (second from right). Western, Collins, from St. Joseph, had said. “It’s kind of a show-offy piece.” David Benz and Dr. Joseph Friedman ’39. performed in Maury Yeston’s “Phantom” THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 28 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 29

Alumni News Alumnotes

1970s Farouk Aregbe ’03 was named manager Megean Weldon ’11: The zero-waste nerd Two alumni in for Academic Retention Services at University Kayla (Morgan) Schoonover ’77 was Baseball Hall of Fame of Missouri-Columbia. Prior to this position, appointed to Missouri Western’s Board he was coordinator for Student Government For Megean (McCloud) Weldon Fast forward to Earth Day 2016. of Governors by Gov. Jay Nixon in June. Two alumni were inducted into the Services at MU for 10 years. ’11, it really all started with a walk The Weldons met their goal of not Schoonover, from Fairfax, Missouri, is a special St. Joseph Baseball Hall of Fame at the June around the neighborhood on Earth Day having to set the trash can out at the joined John Bardgett education instructor for Mound City R-2 25 Mustangs game at Phil Welch Stadium: Chris Roepe ’03 in April 2015. Weldon liked to mark curb in the past year. And, there was & Associates, a law firm in Jefferson City, Schools. Her term will end on Oct. 29, 2017. Cheri Kempf ’85 and Dave Earth Day with an environmentally a bonus – her husband had lost 25 Lau ’89. Missouri as an associate. Roepe will serve as friendly activity, so that year, she and pounds, thanks to the limited fast food Dave Scheer ’79 was inducted into the Kempf is the Hall’s first softball inductee. a lobbyist for the firm. Previously, he served as her husband, Ben, decided to take a and healthier eating. St. Louis Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame as a She led the Griffons to the 1982 NAIA chief of staff to Sen. President Pro Tem Charlie walk around their neighborhood and It was now time for a new goal: only coach. Scheer coached baseball for 25 years at National Championship and was named Shields for eight years. pick up litter. generate enough trash that will fit in a Union High School and was a teacher and coach Tournament MVP. She worked as a softball John Fabsits ’04 is the Director of Field Ninety minutes later, their usual one-gallon jar. In a year. for the Union R-XI School District for 35 years. analyst for ESPN, FOX Sports, MLB Service/Chief Operations Officer for the Boy 30-minute walk had yielded five full (Pause for jaw drop.) He was inducted into the Missouri High School Network, Cox Sports, Comcast Sports and Scouts of America in Cleveland. trash bags of litter. By this time, there was an Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 2012. the YES Network. Kempf was owner of a But the real eye opener came when interesting challenge to go along with softball training facility for many years and is Denise (Johnson) Weldon went to put the bags in their their pledge – Megean was pregnant 1980s currently the commissioner of National Pro Heimer ’04 will celebrate large trash container and the bags with their first child. But they weren’t Fastpitch. her five-year anniversary at wouldn’t fit because of their week’s deterred. The family invested in cloth Michael Finkenbinder Lau played baseball for Missouri Western Blue Cross and Blue Shield worth of trash. diapers, glass baby bottles, homemade ’80 retired from Carlisle and was named honorable mention NAIA of Illinois. “I was mad. I couldn’t believe baby lotion and reusable cloths instead Barracks Police Department All-American in 1985 and second-team people could be so disposable and Megean (McCloud) Weldon ’11 of wipes. At her baby shower, Megean in Carlisle, Pennsylvania as NAIA All-American in 1986. He signed Candice (Day) Quarles ’05 was elected to careless,” Weldon said. “But then I requested only wooden toys, no plastic. watch commander. a free-agent contract with the New York serve on the DeSoto (Texas) City Council. She realized I was just as wasteful. How jars. (The kitchen, Weldon says, is the The Weldons even remodeled a Mets in 1986, and played three seasons received 66 percent of the vote and is currently James Beesley ’81 could I call myself an environmentalist?” biggest culprit for waste.) bathroom during their zero-trash for the organization between the Columbia the youngest member of the Council. received the Silver Beaver And so began her journey to reduce The Weldons were doing so well pledge. The task was accomplished by Mets and the St. Lucie Mets. In 1998, he Award by the Sam Houston Merrill Atwater ’06 is the aviation director for the trash in her life. She and her eliminating trash, Megean was ready to buying secondhand and finding a place became the St. Joseph School District’s first Area Council of Boy Scouts the Kansas Department of Transportation. He will husband set a goal that day – to halve take it a step further. that recycles construction waste, she softball coach, at Central High School. He is their trash and cut out nearly all plastic “I thought, ‘What if we don’t have said. of America. oversee KDOT aviation programs and work with currently the activities coordinator at Central. the Federal Aviation Administration and aviation use by Earth Day 2016. to put our trash can out at the curb Megean noted that reducing trash in Marc Evans ’82 started a new business in Also inducted was the 2007 Benton High They started for an entire year?’ she your life is a conscious lifestyle choice, stakeholders across the state. “I’m happy that I’ve inspired Kansas City, Missouri: TeamLogic IT. Evans, School baseball team, coached by Mike with the easy said. “Even saying it and they are very happy with that who has more than 33 years of IT experience, Musser ‘84. The team is the only baseball Valerie (Lee) Paul ’06 stuff: reusable a lot of people. That’s the end sounded crazy, but I choice. provides a full range of technology services to state champion in St. Joseph’s history. and her husband, James, water bottles started researching to “It’s grounded us, and it has brought small and mid-size businesses. announce the birth of a (no more goal. I know not everyone find a way.” a lot of pleasure back to eating,” she daughter, Sophie Sue, born Michael Hoffman ’82 is the campus minister 2000s buying water has the resources to go zero Every week from said. Oct. 10, 2015. by the case), then on, the Weldons Not surprisingly, Megean says a lot and director of religious life at Graceland Jeffrey Jungers ’00 was named 2015 cloth bags for waste. But everyone can start generated less and less of her cooking, canning and methods University in Lamoni, Iowa. His wife is Nancy Salesman of the Year for Yamaha Golf-Car Jordan Reilly ’07 was named one of Ingram’s (Imlay) Hoffman ’80. Magazine’s Heroes in Healthcare in 2016. Reilly groceries and by doing just one thing.” trash, and Megean to reduce waste were learned from her Company. He also received the award in 2012, cloth produce decided to start a grandparents and great grandparents: and is the only district sales manager to be a is a nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. bags, less fast - Megean (McCloud) Weldon ’11 blog about it to keep she makes her own toothpaste, 1990s two-time winner of the award. food, and herself accountable – shampoo, laundry detergent and Dr. Robert Sigrist, ’95 is the principal of Atia Styles ’07 and Tyrone Kenney, Jr. reusable rags Zerowastenerd.com. cleaning supplies. Jodi Deering ’01 is the executive Savannah High School in Savannah, Missouri. were married May 16, 2015. Atia is a case and cloth napkins (no more paper Today, her blog has 10,000 followers “It’s a bizarre, disposable society,” administrative assistant to the executive He earned his EdD from University of Missouri manager for the State of Maryland. towels). Cooking involved simpler and her Facebook page has almost Megean said, noting that on average, and spent 13 years as an assistant principal at director, human resources director and finance meals with fresh produce, homemade 1,000 likes. One of her most popular each person in the United States Central High School in St. Joseph. His wife, director at Community Action Partnership in Koren (Dailey) Wills St. Joseph, Missouri. tortillas and homemade bread. They reads is “30 Days to Zero Waste.” generates 4 ½ pounds of trash every day. Kim (Koehler) Sigrist, ’93, recently joined ’08 and her husband, started a small compost bin for paper, “It’s been a lot of fun. It’s one of “I’m happy that I’ve inspired a lot of Cody, announce the birth the staff of Missouri Western, serving as the Eric Faes ’02 is a bridge auditor for the cardboard, vegetable peelings, yard those things you find in your life that people. That’s the end goal. I know not of a daughter, Coralie executive associate to the president. Lake of the Ozarks Community Bridge waste, etc. that turns into nutrients for you were meant to do,” she said. “It’s everyone has the resources to go zero Jessamine, born March 4, Transportation Development District. their garden soil. They bought food one of the greatest things I’ve ever waste. But everyone can start by doing Dr. Duane Bruce ’99 is special assistant 2016. She joins big brother in bulk and stored everything in glass done.” just one thing.” to the vice president for student affairs at Ian, who is 2. LaGuardia Community College in New York City.

THE MAGAZINE OF MISSOURI WESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY 30 www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2016 31

Alumnotes

Tiffany 2010s Whitney Stubbs ’14 In memoriam: Dr. Frances Flanagan ’35 (Zimmerman)’08 and Jonathan Hobbs ’15 were married April 16 and Cody ’09 Austin Molly Smith ’11 is an associate accountant Dr. Frances Flanagan ’35 passed by statements that help the reader see in Leavenworth, Kansas. announce the birth of a for the city and county of Denver. away on May 13, 2016, just three days the world as she saw it. They remembered their daughter, Abigail Jean, shy of her 101st birthday. One of the photos from her book Lee Bradley ’12 is the head coach of alma mater while they were born Nov. 30, 2015. Dr. Flanagan, a native of Easton, that was taken in Greece, “Through the Marceline High School’s (Marceline, Missouri) honeymooning in Jamaica. Kelli (McBee) ’08 Black Rage wrestling team. He is a 2006 Missouri, graduated from the St. Shadowed Passage,” was featured in the and Nick ’08 Oldham graduate of the high school and had been a Aubry White ’14 is the marketing assistant in Joseph Junior College in 1935 and Centennial alumni art exhibit in the announce the birth of a member of the wrestling team as a student. the Office of Public Relations and Marketing at earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Potter Hall Art Gallery in 2015. son, Reid Henry, born Missouri Western. from Mount St. Scholastica College, Dr. Flanagan received the Missouri Jan. 4, 2016. Jannie Castanada ’14 is the recreation now Benedictine College, in Atchison, Western Distinguished Alumni Award programs coordinator for the City of St. Joseph Kansas. She earned her master’s and in 1988, and in 2015, the YWCA Brandon Holtz ’09 graduated from the Parks and Recreation Department. doctorate from the University of Iowa recognized her with a Women of FBI’s six-week Hazardous Devices School in in Iowa City. Excellence Lifetime Achievement Huntsville, Alabama, becoming a certified Dr. Flanagan was an elementary Award. bomb technician. Holtz has served as a police Women of Excellence teacher in the St. Joseph School She was an active member of officer in Columbia, Missouri for six years District, and is fondly remembered by St. Francis Xavier Church in St. Joseph. Several alumnae were honored at the YWCA’s annual Women of Excellence luncheon in June. and is a member of the Mid-Missouri Bomb many of her students. She joined the She researched and wrote the church’s Eleanor Langemach ’46 received a Lifetime Achievement Award. The following were nominated Squad. faculty of the St. Joseph Junior College history, and she also wrote a number of in the Woman in the Workplace category: Sarah Hardin ’07, Betty Hellerich ’76, Karen McCoy in 1963. She taught English at the prayers for the parish. ’07, Stacia Studer ’02, Annette Weeks ’87 and Shannen White ’06. Jessica Jackson ’13 was Garrett Holtz ’09 and his wife, Maureen, Junior College and Missouri Western, On a personal note, I met Dr. nominated in the Woman in Support Services category and Natalie Byergo ’05 for Woman announce the birth of a daughter, Elizabeth serving for six years as department Flanagan in 2011 when we filmed her in Volunteerism. Nominated in the Emerging Leader category were Amber McKnight ’04 and Christine, born May 7, 2016. She joins two chair. She retired in 1980. for Missouri Western’s Centennial video. Kristin Wyckoff ’15. Congratulations! Dr. Frances Flanagan ’35 older brothers, Patrick and Luke. In 1982, Dr. M.O. Looney, Missouri Off and on since then, I visited with

Western’s president from 1967- her about different Centennial-related 1983, asked the professor emerita of of sights and people. She preserved her projects, and I was very happy for the In Memory English to research and write Missouri favorite photos in a book she titled “Art opportunity to get to know her. Western’s history, covering 1915 to Along the Way.” The book contains Dr. Flanagan was very intelligent and We remember those who have passed away. If you want to include someone in this listing, please call (816) 271-5651, mail the information to Diane 1983. She was given just nine months more than had a wonderful sense of humor. Just a Holtz, Missouri Western State University, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507, or email [email protected]. to complete the task. The result was 50 full-color few weeks before she “Missouri Western State College: A photos, died, Dr. Flanagan Darline (James) Adkins ’69, St. Joseph, Shirley Ann (Conard) Couldry ’94, Charles Matt, St. Joseph, Missouri, April 10, History 1915-1983,” which serves as an accompanied quoted Shakespeare to Missouri, June 10, 2016. St. Joseph, Missouri, June 30, 2016. 2016. Matt was working in Missouri Western’s invaluable reference book to this day. me to make a point. Steven Bachman ’03, St. Joseph, Missouri, Jeannetta Danford ’52/’72, St. Joseph, Telephone Services Office when he passed away. As part of the She was an English June 28, 2016. Missouri, April 28, 2016. Barbara (Callaway) Miller ’87, St. Joseph, Centennial, teacher to the end! Missouri, April 6, 2016. Dr. Flanagan’s book Dr. Flanagan Donald Bailey ’09, St. Joseph, Missouri, Pat Dexter ’78, St. Joseph, Missouri, July 1, was formatted for is survived by two April 18, 2016. 2016. Charlene Rainey, St. Joseph, Missouri, Kindle and is also brothers and their Susan Bennett-Ward ’87, St. Joseph, Dr. Solon E. Haynes, St. Joseph, Missouri, June 6, 2016. Rainey had worked in Missouri available online on the spouses, several nieces Missouri, May 4, 2016. June 23, 2016. Dr. Haynes taught in the Western’s Business Office for over 25 years. University’s website. and nephews and Donald Joseph Boyes ’87, St. Joseph, Department of Education at Missouri Western Rachel Scroggins ’98, St. Joseph, Missouri, On May 16, 2015, great-nieces and great- Missouri, June 18, 2016. for 38 years. June 17, 2016. Dr. Flanagan celebrated nephews. Carolyn Jones, St. Joseph, Missouri, May 20, El Dora (Castle) Schmidt ’42, St. Joseph, her 100th birthday. She was such an Clara (Yurko) Breuckmann ’62, St. Joseph, Also in 2015, she self- inspiration to me, and I Missouri, Feb. 21, 2016. 2016. Jones was a former employee; she worked Missouri, December 12, 2015. in Human Resources. published a book of know many, many people Barbara Budine ’81, Faucett, Missouri, Darleen (Boleski) Shelton ’60, St. Joseph, photos from her more who feel the same way. June 29, 2016. Donald Kagay ’51, Columbia, Missouri, Missouri, May 21, 2016. than 30 years of world Dr. Flanagan touched June 25, 2016. travel. Dr. Flanagan visited a lot of lives in her 100 Darlene Caw, St. Joseph, Missouri, Perry Scott Smith ’87, St. Joseph, Missouri, spots all over much years, and she is missed by June 15, 2016. Caw was a former employee; Terry King, St. Joseph, Missouri, June 5, Jan. 23, 1962. of the globe, those who knew her. she worked for the physical plant. 2016. King was working for Missouri Western’s Ellis Daniel Thomas ’59, St. Joseph, capturing physical plant when he passed away. Missouri, April 20, 2016. interesting Diane Holtz angles and Editor beautiful images 32 www.missouriwestern.edu Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Liberty, MO 64068 Missouri Western State University Permit No. 939 4525 Downs Drive St. Joseph, Missouri 64507

The video scoreboard’s journey: California to Spratt Memorial Stadium

Missouri Western’s new video scoreboard for Spratt Memorial Stadium arrived in style in June! A reporter from St. Joseph News- Press/KNPN rode along with the eight-truck caravan that made the 1,600-mile, three-day journey from Multimedia LED in Corona, California to campus. The caravan made overnight stops in Las Vegas and Silverthorne, Colorado, arriving with great fanfare on campus on June 9. A press conference and reception was held, and the more than 200 who attended watched the unloading from the newly renovated Stadium Club in the stadium. For more details, see p. 20.