/ FALL 2020 / FALL / VOL.XXXV / / VOL.XXXV MILLIKIN MAGAZINE / MILLIKIN MAGAZINE
AMILLIKIN.EDU/MAGAZINE NEW MILLIKINCHAPTER UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE FALL 2020 7733 MMR-MAGAZINE-1120 KIN.EDU LLI 800.373. MAGAZINE@MI MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY MILLIKIN STREET MAIN 1184 WEST ILLINOIS 62522 DECATUR, millikin.edu CHECK OUT THE DIGITAL VERSION AT: VERSION AT: CHECK OUT THE DIGITAL MILLIKIN.EDU/MAGAZINE FALL 2020 // VOL. XXXV, NO. 3
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE
PRESIDENT’S 2 PERSPECTIVE
UNIVERSITY 4 NEWS
THINGS 5 WE LOVE
CENTER FOR 12 THEATRE & DANCE
ALUMNI 16 AWARDS
ATHLETIC 17 HALL OF FAME
DR. JAMES 18 M. REYNOLDS
SUE 22 REYNOLDS
ANNUAL 24 REPORT
WAYS 25 TO GIVE
CELEBRATING THE 26 CLASS OF 1970 P.12 ATHLETICS 28 REPORT
COLLEGE OF 30 ARTS & SCIENCES THE CENTER FOR COLLEGE OF 32 FINE ARTS THEATRE & DANCE
COLLEGE OF 34 PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
TABOR SCHOOL 36 OF BUSINESS ALUMNI LEGACY STAY CONNECTED UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT: DR. JAMES M. REYNOLDS 38 DIANNE HILL FISCHER The mission of Millikin VICE PRESIDENT FOR ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT: GINA BIANCHI, CLASS OF 1993 GET INVOLVED VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT & MARKETING: SARAH SHUPENUS ALUMNI PROFILE VICE PRESIDENT FOR FINANCE & BUSINESS AFFAIRS: RUBY JAMES 40 ZACH & KIRSTEN UTTICH GIVE BACK Magazine is to engage VICE PRESIDENT FOR STUDENT AFFAIRS & DEAN OF STUDENT DEVELOPMENT: RAPHAELLA PRANGE ALUMNI Facebook alumni, friends, parents ATHLETIC DIRECTOR: DR. CRAIG WHITE 42 STORIES millikin.edu/alumni facebook.com/ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS: KYLEE RONEY millikinalumni and other constituents in DIRECTOR OF MEDIA RELATIONS & PUBLICATIONS: DANE LISSER ALUMNI 45 ASSOCIATION DESIGN & ART DIRECTOR: MICHAEL RAUCH the life of the University, ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS: DANIELLE FIELDS, CLASS OF 2009/MBA 2012 Phone: 217.424.6383 Twitter CLASS twitter.com/ UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHER: RICHARD NDEMBE 47 NOTES Toll free: 1.877.JMU.ALUM to communicate the MillikinU SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: CARLY CONWAY, CLASS OF 2016 MILLIKIN high quality of Millikin COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: JEREMY COULTER, CLASS OF 2000 [email protected] 52 MEMORIALS Instagram COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST: SYDNEY MCREYNOLDS, CLASS OF 2019 [email protected] instagram.com/ Performance Learning, CONTRIBUTORS: DR. NAJIBA BENABESS; DR. RANDY BROOKS; CAROLINE COLBY BRUDER, CLASS OF 2008; millikinalumni NATHAN CAMERON; COLIN JAMISON, CLASS OF 2020/MBA 2021; ALYSE KNUST; LAURA LEDFORD; and to reflect the DR. PAMELA LINDSEY; AUBREY MAGRO, CLASS OF 2020/MBA 2021 YouTube University’s mission FOR CHANGE youtube.com/ OF ADDRESS: It is the policy of Millikin University to afford equal opportunity for all persons without distinction MillikinUniversity and values. or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, disability, national origin, religion, sexual orientation or age. Opinions expressed in these pages are those of the individuals Millikin Magazine Linkedin and do not necessarily reflect the official views of the University. Millikin University 1184 West Main Street linkedin.com/school/ Millikin Magazine (ISSN 8750-7706) (USPS 0735-570) is produced Decatur, Illinois 62522-2084 Millikin-University by the Millikin University Marketing & Media Relations Office.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 ©2020 Millikin University. 1 WRITTEN BY: PRESIDENT JIM REYNOLDS PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE
Dear Millikin alumni and friends: I want to begin this note by offering a word of gratitude to all of you whom I have had the pleasure of meeting since I began my tenure at Millikin just a few short months ago. So many of you have been incredibly kind and generous to Sue and me, and we have enjoyed our transition to the Millikin and Decatur communities. We both look forward to building on the positive legacy that Pat and Chris White left here and are thankful for their service to Millikin during their time on campus.
Transitions are not always easy, but this one is a bit easier for us because we are very familiar with Decatur and Millikin. As many of you know, I grew up in the West End, on Riverview Avenue - just six blocks south of the Millikin campus. As a kid, I spent many wonderful days on Millikin’s campus, going to sporting events and being part of activities that Millikin had to offer. I often joke with the people I meet that I am old enough to remember when the Griswold Center was pretty close to brand new and that for my physical education credit, during my senior year of high school, I swam in the pool. Sue has been visiting Decatur since we began dating in the mid- 1970s, so I think she also can claim residential status.
Even during my childhood, I knew Millikin was a special place and had much to offer. But, when I was ready for my collegiate experience, I also realized I needed to be away from home. So, even though I held Millikin in high regard, I left Decatur to begin my journey toward adulthood. Now, 45 years after I left, I get the privilege of returning to my hometown and the honor of being the 16th president of Millikin University.
During the last few months, the two questions that I have been most often asked are related to how we are adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic and my vision for the future. I am very proud of the way in which our campus community has dealt with the pandemic. Prior to my arrival in July, detailed plans were already being made to provide a safe return to campus for our faculty, staff and students, and I was very impressed with the execution of those plans over the summer. We have had a safe opening, and as I write this note, at the beginning of October, we have a low number of positive cases of the virus on campus. Faculty are teaching in various ways to provide our students with the instruction they need, and approximately 70% of our classes are meeting either completely in person or in a “hybrid” (both in-person and online instruction) format. I believe that the commitment of everyone on campus to practice good public health by wearing a mask and socially distancing themselves has been the major reason for our success.
I also continue to believe our future as a University is very bright, and I see many positive opportunities for success. Faculty have done remarkable work in developing good online instruction for our students, and the lessons we have learned during this time will help us to expand our ability to reach more students in the future. There are opportunities for growth in our academic programs, and because of careful campus master planning, we have many of the facilities we need to attract additional students. Our athletic facilities have improved because of the generosity of the Workman family and many others, but this is an ongoing area of need, and I will be looking for partners to help with more significant projects for athletics. We also will embark on the development of the next strategic plan and will ask for input from all of you as we imagine the Millikin of the future.
So even in this time of transitions, much like the traveling company of a Broadway musical, the cast members might be changing, but the excellence of the production continues. For those of you who have chosen to support Millikin through your time, talents and treasures, you have my deepest gratitude for your confidence in us. I look forward to meeting you all, in person, in the near future!
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 3 UNIVERSITY NEWS THINGS WE LOVE
ALUM RELEASES GROUNDBREAKING A BEST NAMED TOP BEST PEER-REVIEWED RAP ALBUM BANG FOR BACHELOR’S MIDWEST THE BUCK COLLEGE REGIONAL IN THE IN ILLINOIS COLLEGE MIDWEST IN ILLINOIS
WASHINGTON WASHINGTON U.S NEWS AND MONTHLY MONTHLY WORLD REPORT Millikin graduate and award-winning performance artist Dr. Adrian “A.D.” Carson, Class of 2004, Dr. MILLIKIN PROUDLY has released the first- ANNOUNCES NEW RANKINGS ever peer-reviewed “A.D.” rap album from an Adrian Class of 2004 academic publisher. Millikin University has 50 in the category, at No. 40 out of 372 U.S. News and World Report Carson once again been recognized schools. Millikin was also ranked No. 28 included the University in its 2021 Carson describes the album, by multiple organizations for out of 248 schools in the Top Bachelor’s Best Colleges guidebook, ranking the titled “i used to love to dream,” as a its outstanding performance Colleges for 2020 category, the highest institution No. 12 in the Best Regional mixtap/e/ssay, a blended genre of ranking of any Illinois institution. College in the Midwest category, in higher education. storytelling and scholarship that bridges making Millikin the highest-ranked spheres of his professional life as a CARSON'S PROJECTS In its 2021 College Ranking, the Wall Carson’s album features eight tracks The University is proud to announce its college in Illinois on the list. Millikin scholar and a rapper. ARE AVAILABLE TO STREAM Street Journal/Times Higher Education latest rankings by Washington Monthly, was also recognized for distinction in highlighting outlooks on Black life in AND DOWNLOAD FOR FREE AT ranked Millikin No. 371 of 797 the Wall Street Journal/Times Higher several other categories, including Best The album uses sampled and live general and Black manhood in particular, aydeethegreat.com institutions nationally and 85th out of 212 Education, and U.S. News and World Value Schools in the Midwest at No. instrumentation; repurposed music, film in the United States, and he hopes that in the Midwest. Institutions are ranked Report. 29, Social Mobility at No. 35, and was and news clips; and original rap lyrics. people will sit with the album, listen and CARSON IS CURRENTLY across four pillars, representing resources, ranked among the top regional colleges It focuses on the idea of home, told be reminded of the idea of home. “I hope Washington Monthly’s 2020 College engagement, outcomes and environment. ASSISTANT PROFESSOR in the Midwest for Best Undergraduate through Carson’s reflections about his listeners will think about their heres and OF HIP-HOP AND THE Guide and Rankings recognized Millikin Millikin’s strongest pillar was engagement, Teaching at No. 11, the only Illinois past growing up in Decatur, contending theres, nows and thens. I hope people will GLOBAL SOUTH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA. as being a Best Bang for the Buck Midwest representing the University’s commitment school to make the list. with the moral, philosophical and ethical earnestly engage with it as music and art. I university. For the second consecutive to critical thinking and practical unease about authenticity and what hope people will earnestly engage with it as HE CAN BE FOUND ON year, Millikin was ranked among the top application in its educational mission. FACEBOOK, TWITTER it means to stay true to one’s city or scholarship … I hope people will share it AND INSTAGRAM neighborhood. Carson uses Decatur as with people they care about. I hope people @aydeethegreat a reference point for rapped reflections will share it with people they want to about the ideas of growing up, moving converse with,” he said. away and pondering one’s life choices.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 5 THINGS WE LOVE THINGS WE LOVE
Munoz Publishes on Finding Happiness While Making an Impact
Dr. J. Mark Munoz, professor of management, has published his latest book, “Creating a Business and Personal Legacy,” which discusses how individuals Tabor School of may work to discover purpose, uncover meaning in their lives and work Business Partners to establish a legacy. No stranger to the publication world, Dr. Munoz has authored more than 20 books; this latest one is quite different from his past with Black Chamber publications. Dean’s Experience in Latvia of Commerce Shapes Life and Research “Most of my books were written using my brain; for this one, I used my Incorporate, incubate and incite your heart,” Munoz said. The book challenges readers to think about how they Dr. Laura Dean, associate professor of political dreams. That is the mantra of Decatur’s want to be remembered and to take proactive action toward planning for one’s science and director of the Human Trafficking newest business incubator, The INC. Spot, legacy. Munoz captures these concepts by using fictional, but highly plausible, Research Lab at Millikin, spent the spring 2020 the first minority-owned business incubator stories in the book, focusing on key ideas. semester in Latvia, conducting field research as in the region. Located in downtown part of a Fulbright Scholar fellowship. It wasn’t Decatur, The INC. Spot is designed to help Munoz indicated that questions regarding the legacy one leaves behind are the first time Dean had taken a deep dive into the the community and businesses in Central important, because they shape the ways in which we view ourselves, our goals history, politics and culture of that region. As an Illinois with ongoing training, advising and aspirations, and even our happiness. He wrote the manuscript during the undergraduate, she spent a semester studying in and on-site support for entrepreneurs and summer of 2019, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. While he was finalizing Latvia, an experience that proved instrumental developing businesses. edits, Munoz and his editor noted the growing importance of the topic. in shaping her life and research — including the The new incubator — spearheaded by the “When faced with this notion of our own mortality, it makes sense to think work that resulted in her latest book. Black Chamber of Commerce of Illinois about how we lived our lives and the kind of legacy we leave behind,” Munoz and the Greater Decatur Black Chamber Published by Bristol University’s Policy Press, said. “As a result of the pandemic and its social and economic consequences, of Commerce — will provide assistance Dean’s book, “Diffusing Human Trafficking Policy many are troubled, confused and depressed. When one lives a life with a clear in business structure, accounting, in-house in Eurasia,” is based on the results of her extensive goal and purpose, happiness may be found.” educational seminars and workshops. The field research in the region. Proficient in both facility includes boardrooms, event space and Latvian and Russian, Dean’s professional interest office space. in, and advocacy for, Eurasia stretches back almost Noggle Named First Female two decades and includes efforts to debunk Millikin University’s Tabor School of Chief of Staff to Georgia Governor common misconceptions about human trafficking, Business will serve as a partner with the Caylee French Noggle, Class of 2001, chief management officer for the Office of including the belief that human trafficking only incubator, with educational programs Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp, was appointed interim chief of staff to the governor involves sex trafficking. available for students as well as aspiring in September. Noggle is the first woman to serve in the role. After graduating from entrepreneurs. “This is the type of space Millikin, Noggle earned a master’s degree in college student affairs from the University Dean’s book has been lauded for its “innovative that will make our community stronger. of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she served as a financial aid officer before moving to analysis” and “skillful interpretation” of this It is a space where people are going to get Georgia. complicated and ongoing problem. Her inclusion together, educate each other, support each of firsthand accounts of human trafficking victims, other and empower each other,” said Dr. Before joining the Kemp administration in January 2020, Noggle served as president, as well as her interview with state officials and Najiba Benabess, dean of the Tabor School interim president, chief operating officer and chief financial officer for the Georgia policymakers, adds valuable research to the of Business. Student Finance Commission. “I am honored and humbled by the responsibility of existing field. leading Governor Kemp’s administration through this transition,” Noggle said. “I look The aim of The INC. Spot is to ensure forward to serving Governor Kemp and the state of Georgia in this role.” At Millikin, Dean’s tireless work has allowed that new businesses have the resources her students to directly engage with the issue of and opportunities to learn the business Noggle previously served as director of the Physical and Economic Development world and be competitive in the market. human trafficking and has resulted in a concerted Division in the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, where she handled budget Decatur-area leaders believe the incubator effort to both raise awareness and provide and policy oversight for more than 20 state agencies. She also served as coordinator will provide the tools and resources that will of first-year and academic support programs at the University of West Georgia. members of the Millikin community with tools to enable the community and its citizens to Additionally, she has served on numerous committees and in leadership capacities for recognize and combat the problem. nurture opportunities for success. other higher education and financial aid industry associations.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 7 THINGS WE LOVE THINGS WE LOVE
MCCLAIN NAMED Research Study Furthers Mission CONDUCTOR OF MDSO of Shakespeare A member of Shakespeare Corrected since Corrected her first year at Millikin and the program’s business director since fall 2018, Nickel Through Millikin’s Summer focused her SURF study on building Undergraduate Research Fellowship financial support for the program. Odufuwa Receives (SURF) Program, Millikin students spend Nickel enrolled in a grant-writing course Prestigious Gilman the summer researching, acquiring data through the American Grant Writers’ and engaging in project-based learning. Association to learn about the rhetoric, Scholarship Students partner with faculty on a narrative writing and budget formatting Millikin Long-Vanderburg Scholar particular research study and receive a process for grants, then spent the Oluwafunke Odufuwa of Chicago, a stipend, plus supply money, for the project. remainder of the summer working on a senior political science major with Spanish grant proposal for the program. Louisa Nickel of Newton, Kan., a senior and pre-law minors, has been selected theatre major with a political science Serving as business director for to receive the prestigious Benjamin minor, spent the summer working with Shakespeare Corrected, and more A. Gilman International Scholarship Alex Miller, professor of theatre and dance, specifically as the program’s grant writer, from the U.S. Department of State. The to further the mission of Shakespeare has given Nickel the opportunity to learn scholarship allows students of limited Corrected, one of the School of Theatre about different aspects of the theatre financial means the opportunity to study and Dance’s signature curricular programs. industry. “I’m grateful to be learning how abroad and supports students who have Students work with incarcerated and to do this work for myself as well as for been historically underrepresented in disadvantaged populations to create a fellow artists and future projects,” Nickel international education, such as first- collaborative theatrical experience intended said. “Shakespeare Corrected has taught generation college students, STEM to inspire transformation and redemption me the importance and power of listening students, minority students and students in students, participants and their families. and learning from others.” McClain also teaches musicology, Millikin’s emphasis on practicing with disabilities, among others. Dr. William James orchestration and string methods. No Performance Learning on a daily basis “I was very surprised when I received the McClain has been stranger to Millikin, McClain served as a and the collaborative spirit across campus notification for receiving the scholarship,” named conductor guest conductor of an MDSO performance in were two of the chief factors that attracted Odufuwa said. “I am currently still February 2020. McClain to the University. “It’s not an abstract idea or something we strive to, deciding where I want to travel next year, and music director of McClain has conducted professional, but in the School of Music, we have the but I know it will be in Latin America. I community and youth orchestras for over the Millikin-Decatur ability to put Performance Learning into want to go to a Spanish-speaking country 20 years, including appearances at major practice right away,” he said. “It doesn’t to help improve or perfect my Spanish. I Symphony Orchestra venues across the United States and abroad, matter if you want to be a classically feel like being in the country and having to such as the Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully (MDSO). trained musician or you want to do speak the language consistently will make Hall, Carnegie Hall and the Sheremetev theatre; there [are] always opportunities me more fluent.” Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia. Honored for collaborations across the University.” by the International Academy of Advanced In addition to being a Long-Vanderburg Conducting, McClain has appeared as Scholar, Odufuwa also serves as vice a guest conductor with the Fort Wayne president of Black Student Union and Philharmonic, the West Virginia Symphony secretary of Model Illinois Government. Orchestra, the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra After graduation from Millikin, Odufuwa SUPPORT and the Onondaga Civic Orchestra in upstate plans to attend law school and work TO SUPPORT THE New York. toward pursuing a career as a criminal MILLIKIN-DECATUR SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA, defense attorney. “I would also like to run VISIT for Illinois State House Representative and one day become a judge,” she added. millikin.edu/mdso
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 9 THINGS WE LOVE THINGS WE LOVE
Kennedy has nearly 22 years of experience GRISWOLD PHYSICAL EDUCATION in the health care profession. She began her career shortly after high school as a CENTER GYM GETS AN UPDATE nursing assistant; she then advanced her education to attain licensure as a practical nurse and then as a registered professional nurse, where she practiced in rehabilitation and medical-oncology. She has also served as a hospice nurse and a medical-surgical clinical nurse. “I was very excited for the opportunity to expand my skills and knowledge,” Kennedy said. “This funding will help me grow as an educator and initiate a salient program of research.”
The purpose of the Nurse Educator Fellowship Program is to ensure the retention of well-qualified nursing faculty at institutions of higher learning that award degrees in nursing. This year’s fellows were recognized at a virtual ceremony in June. Faculty Members Named Nurse Educator Fellows The Illinois Board of Higher Education and the Illinois Nursing Workforce Zimmerman’s Passion Center Advisory Board announced the for Pottery Leads to recipients of the 2020 Nurse Educator Successful Business Fellowships, each of whom is awarded $10,000 to help promote excellence in Courtney Woodruff Zimmerman, Class Currently, Zimmerman’s full-time job nursing education. Gina Canny, who of 2015, has a passion for pottery, a talent keeps her busy for 45 hours a week, and she discovered as a student at Millikin. Her she works on her pottery every day after received her MSN from Millikin in Men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball Head Women’s Basketball Coach Olivia Lett motivation to develop her craft and become work. She has a goal of becoming a full- 2012, and Julie Kennedy, both Millikin For more both compete in Griswold’s gym, which has said that Millikin’s efforts recruiting in the her own boss has led to a successful pottery time potter by the time she is in her early instructors of nursing, were among 19 a capacity of 3,000 fans. The building also local area have helped draw larger crowds to business she’s built online and through thirties. “I’m working for myself. I have to than 50 years, distinguished educators selected for their houses classrooms, athletic training facilities, the Griswold Center. “We want the smaller social media. Drawing inspiration after self-motivate, which can be challenging commitment to quality and innovative Millikin University’s three regulation-size basketball courts and towns and communities to come watch to see helping a faculty member prepare for an when you’ve just worked nine hours, but teaching in the field of nursing. locker rooms. kids they have grown up watching,” Lett said. art show, Zimmerman learned to make clay I write a lot of lists throughout the day,” Griswold Physical “I’m hoping that on this court, we will get Canny joined the School of Nursing and glazes before ever taking a ceramics she said. “I keep a planner so I know what The facility recently underwent a major Education Center to host conference tournaments and NCAA faculty in 2014. A certified trauma course. it is I must get done each day to stay on renovation to the gym floor. What was tournament games and play on this court in nurse specialist as well as a certified schedule.” has been home to formerly a traditionally wood-colored court Nearly everything Zimmerman creates some games that really matter.” nurse educator, Canny has over 25 years now features a Millikin-blue court with gray is thrown on a pottery wheel. Each piece Zimmerman’s work can be found on Big Blue Athletics. of clinical nursing experience in acute sections inside the 3-point line. Rule changes has anywhere from four to eight different Instagram @cmwceramics and on her renal dialysis, surgical and medical involving the 3-point line also factored into glazes that are strategically brushed on. “I website at courtneyzimmerman.com, intermediate care, emergency medicine the new design of the flooring, as the line SUPPORT like colors to blend and change, so I layer where she has an online store. Her work and as a staff educator. “As a recipient of was pushed back for the upcoming season. FOR MORE INFORMATION just about everything,” Zimmerman said. “I can also be found in shops, including ABOUT THE ATHLETIC FACILITY the Nurse Educator Fellowship Award, The design not only brings new energy to tend to think about the glazes as creating Society in Valparaiso, Ind.; Moon Cookie EXPANSION AND RENOVATION these funds will enable me to retain my the center, but it will play an important role INITIATIVE, VISIT abstract landscapes, but with colors that I Gallery and Stefari Café in Kankakee, Ill.; current faculty position, complete my when it comes to recruitment for Big Blue am personally inspired by.” and Homespun in Indianapolis. doctoral dissertation and attend education Athletics. millikin.edu/mpowered conferences,” Canny said.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 11 WRITTEN BY: DANE LISSER PROGRESS
“Every space in the building is a place for connection, learning and teaching.”
- Carson Durham Lead Architect, BLDD
A DREAM COME TRUE
MILLIKIN’S Thanks to visionary and generous “It is a structural recognition of the classroom, collaboration spaces, acting Millikin University alumni and importance of the visual and performing studios, design classrooms, practice rooms, CENTER FOR community leaders, as well as the arts in our lives and in our community,” said modern theatre equipment, and offices and THEATRE & investment of University resources by Millikin President Dr. Jim Reynolds. “By support facilities for current staff, with DANCE OPENS the Board of Trustees, Millikin’s newest undertaking and completing this project room for growth. The innovative facility The Center for Theatre & Dance was one trustee emeritus who served as co-chair building, the Center for Theatre & through the generosity of our alumni and has become the new face of the School of of three building projects under Millikin of the TMU capital campaign steering TO THE CAMPUS Dance, opened its doors to faculty, staff other friends, Millikin University has Theatre and Dance. University’s $85 million “Transform MU” committee. “It has long been Millikin’s and students in August 2020. reaffirmed the value that theatre and dance capital campaign (TMU). The capital mission to deliver on the promise of COMMUNITY “Students will be able to learn performance, hold in our daily lives. I'm very excited for campaign was envisioned as an opportunity education. Now we can really deliver For months, the Millikin University directing, design, production and our faculty, staff and students, both current to make truly transformational changes at on that promise with this building’s campus community witnessed a change management in all-new spaces equipped and prospective, to fill the building with Millikin as well as make transformational completion.” A dream that became in scenery with the construction of the with the latest technology,” said Mary their exceptional talent and to make it a changes in the lives of students. new Center for Theatre & Dance, which Black, director of the School of Theatre and a wish; a concept that place of creativity and learning." Decatur-based BLDD Architects Inc. began on May 18, 2018. What was Dance. “The new Center will do more than “One of the unique things about Millikin served as the architectural partner for the became a design; a the former site of the Richards Treat The $29 million Center features a 260-seat facilitate the needs of our current students University is its emphasis on Performance project. The company worked with several design that became University Center has now become flexible theatre, including an orchestra pit, and programs. It will allow us to continue Learning, and this facility will indeed Millikin students, faculty, administrators, a state-of-the-art facility designed balcony and tech gallery with a tension wire to grow and excel as we prepare students a reality. provide opportunities for our students alumni and donors during the building’s to provide Millikin students with grid. The new building also features lighting for their lives as theatre artists.” like never before,” said Dr. Steve Huss, developmental process. high-quality Performance Learning and sound labs, a costume studio, a costume experiences. MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 13 PROGRESS
The completion of the building is a reflection of the tremendous “One of the founding design elements Carson Durham, lead architect for the For Millikin students like Zachary Cary, was to see and be seen. People on campus project, says every space in the building a senior design and production major impact of President Emeritus Dr. and in the community can actually see is a place for “connection, learning and from St. Charles, Mo., the building Patrick E. White, whose leadership what’s happening in and around the teaching.” offers exciting, hands-on learning played an integral role in the space as students work on planned and opportunities. impromptu performances in places “This building offers the ability to look completion of the TMU capital backward toward the history of the “The new building presents a wide ranging from the lobby to the outdoor campaign. covered patio,” said John Whitlock, campus’ design and also look forward array of technical facilities and cutting- principal with BLDD Architects. “Even in terms of contemporary architecture edge technologies that allow students “This is an exciting moment in Millikin’s history,” said though they had no dedicated facility to and elements,” Durham said. “It’s a to gain experiences on equipment White. “We want to thank everyone who had a role in put them on the map, Millikin’s School of very comfortable space for students that is quickly becoming the industry this project, whether you were a donor of a few dollars Theatre and Dance continued to produce to gather, learn and collaborate. On standard,” Cary said. “The features or a million dollars, we appreciate your belief in the high-quality graduates and created private campuses, you sometimes get the of the building allow me and other future of Millikin and the work we do in Performance a program that ranked in the top 10 feeling that new buildings are more for students to further grow our skills in Learning, particularly in the arts of theatre and dance. nationally. With the resources provided alumni than students. This building is new ways as artists and technicians.” From the Board of Trustees, to the faculty and staff who by the Center for Theatre & Dance, we intentionally designed so students feel like worked so hard to make this happen, to our partners believe Millikin can become the best they can succeed. It still features high-end in construction and design — everyone who made the theatre program in the nation.” spaces, but it’s not intimidating.” Center for Theatre & Dance a wonderful building.”
“One of the founding design elements was to see and be seen. People on campus and in the community can actually see what’s happening in and around the space as students work on planned and impromptu performances in places ranging from the lobby to the outdoor covered patio.”
John Whitlock, principal with BLDD Architects
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 15 ALUMNI AWARDS ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME
ALUMNUS ATHLETIC OF THE YEAR HALL OF FAME
2020 MILLIKIN UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
During these unprecedented Cora Jeffers Herek times, Millikin University’s Class of 2013 Homecoming 2020 Cora Jeffers Herek of Oreana, Ill., was inducted for her contributions to Millikin celebration was like no softball. other. For Homecoming 2020, Millikin University John “Jack” Klawitter invited the community Class of 1989 to remember that Jack Klawitter of Louisville, Ky., was “Homecoming is in the honored for his accomplishments in Big Sue Logan John William Prange Prange Heart” as the University Blue baseball and men’s soccer. Class of 1962 Class of 1960 held its first-ever virtual
Homecoming celebration. Dr. Ollie Mack Jr. Class of 1971 While this year’s Homecoming Dr. Ollie Mack Jr. of St. Louis was inducted celebration looked much different than for his athletic accomplishments in football previous years, Millikin offered some and men’s track and field. unique and exciting opportunities for the Big Blue family, including recognizing
Millikin’s newest Alumni Award winners Ariel Robinson and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees. Class of 2013 Ariel Robinson of Champaign, Ill., was inducted for her outstanding accomplishments in women’s track and field.
MERIT-LOYALTY AWARD LOYALTY AWARD YOUNG ALUMNUS FACULTY/STAFF AWARD RECOGNITION AWARD Dr. Elise Wildman Class of 2011 Jeffrey “Jeff ” James “Jim” Dr. Elise Wildman of Salem, Ill., was Krista Scott Tammy Morrison READ Monken Butts Class of 2016 honored for her outstanding playing career Class of 1989 Class of 1951 MORE AT in women’s basketball. millikin.edu/2020-alumni-awards
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 17 WRITTEN BY: DANIELLE FIELDS, CLASS OF 2009/MBA 2012 FEATURE FEATURE
Dr. IT’S NOT ABOUT ME Entering the Office James M. of the President at Millikin University Reynolds can be a little overwhelming, if you are not used to it. Surrounded by the faces of former presidents commemorated in stately portraits, the only sound the President, Millikin University methodical ticking of the ornate clock, you quickly find that the usual hustle and bustle of Shilling Hall is absent, replaced with a gentle solemnity befitting such a position of honor.
If you are new to Millikin — or, at the very least, new to visiting this office — it can be intimidating. The feeling of having just entered a place of great importance Dr. Reynolds came to Millikin following to devise a plan that would ensure a safe is undeniable, and visitors are filled with his presidency at Wilmington College in environment for all members of the Big quiet respect as they wait for whatever Wilmington, Ohio. Both Wilmington and Blue community. “We have really good special business has brought them here. “I’ve always Millikin have afforded Dr. Reynolds the people doing really good work,” he said. believed that All of that unease dissipates when opportunity to partner with the respective While the pandemic has certainly Dr. James Reynolds, Millikin’s 16th institutions in a way that fulfills his personal presented its share of obstacles, Dr. my best role president, extends an invitation to come mission. “My vocation, my calling, has Reynolds believes that Millikin has in and have a seat. always been, ‘Can I help somebody else be is to be in the risen to the challenges set before it and better and make it easier for them to do just An eloquent yet soft-spoken man, has identified the facets of its character background, that?’” he said. Dr. Reynolds has a measured way of that enable the University to continue working as speaking that shows he understands As he prepared to make the transition from to prepare its students for professional hard as I can the tremendous weight his words carry. Wilmington to Millikin, Dr. Reynolds found success, even in the face of uncertainty. Within just a few moments of making himself in a particularly difficult situation: “There is a real willingness to work to support the his acquaintance, it is obvious that he how to navigate the difficulties created by together on this campus … when considers his role as president to be both the COVID-19 pandemic for not just one, people out things need to be done for the benefit a tremendous responsibility and a great but two institutions. of the family, we pull together. That front. It’s not privilege. He approaches the office and its “The pandemic becomes the topline issue spirit exists here,” he said. “We’ve been demands with humility and emphasizes every day,” he said. “It becomes the very first really creative in putting together about me.” that the University is his priority. thing I think of in the morning and the last Performance Learning experiences … President Jim Reynolds “I am going to do everything I can to put thing I think of before bed.” Fortunately, [We’ve been] trying to figure out how to the University first,” Dr. Reynolds said. Dr. Reynolds said that much of his job was get [our work] done in a way that feels “I’ve always believed that my best role is to made easier by the Millikin faculty, staff and ‘authentically Millikin,’ and I think we’ve be in the background, working as hard as I administration who had tirelessly worked done a good job of that.” can to support the people out front. It’s not about me.”
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 19 WRITTEN BY: DANIELLE FIELDS, CLASS OF 2009/MBA 2012
The two met while undergrads at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, when Dr. Reynolds coached Mrs. Reynolds’ powderpuff football team. As an educator herself, Mrs. Reynolds shares Dr. Reynolds’ passion for making a difference in the lives of others. The two are often seen as a team around campus, interacting with students, faculty and staff and walking their two keeshonds, Phoebe and Georgia — who are quickly becoming the most popular members of the Millikin community.
In his free time, which admittedly comes at a premium, Dr. Reynolds enjoys cooking, a skill he learned from his mother. Whether making a big pot of jambalaya or baking cornbread in his mother’s cast-iron skillet from the 1940s, he takes her teaching to heart.
“When Sue and I got married, my mom said to Sue, ‘He knows how to cook, he knows how to clean, he can iron his own shirt and he can sew buttons. What you do with that is up to you,’” he joked. He also enjoys reading, particularly about other cultures, in an effort to “understand better how [he] can be more inclusive in [his] thoughts.”
Dr. Reynolds admits that That same down-to-earth demeanor and emphasis on others are evident when Dr. Reynolds discusses both what he wants people to know about him and what he “I just want people the hardest part of being hopes to accomplish at Millikin. He answers in the same way he tackles everything to understand that a university president is asked of him; he pauses thoughtfully, considers thoroughly and answers genuinely: separating his work life ‘President Reynolds’ “I just want people to understand that ‘President Reynolds’ and ‘Jim R’ are the same from his home life, and he person, and you can depend on him. and ‘Jim R’ are the is grateful that his wife, Sue, understands the importance “At the end of the day for me, it’s all about how to build real relationships with same person, and you people and make it so that those relationships count for something,” he said. of his work and supports it Part of those relationships includes positioning students for success. “If I’m ever can depend on him. ” so selflessly. mentioned again after I leave, that’s what I want people to mention: ‘He did everything he could to make us successful.’”
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 21 WRITTEN BY: SUE REYNOLDS
A MESSAGE FROM SUE REYNOLDS
Jim and I continue to be excited about the journey we are taking with our new Millikin family and friends! Even though the pandemic has made it more difficult for us to do our usual gatherings and activities with you, we have been reaching out to many people through phone calls and videoconferencing platforms as well as socially distanced meetings with individuals. Jim and I are looking forward to developing authentic and meaningful relationships with you!
I have been very privileged to have many community groups and organizations reach out to me during our short time back in Decatur. Many of them have asked me to consider partnering with them as they work to make our city even better. I have been working to determine where my gifts and talents would be best utilized and will continue to find ways in which I can help these various groups.
I hope that in the very near future, we are able to gather with alumni and friends of Millikin in the many places where they live and work. This will help Jim and me learn more about their Millikin experience and how we can best serve them. We know that it is due to their support and generosity that we are able to provide what our students, faculty and staff need for their continued success.
Thanks to all of you for welcoming Jim; our two dogs, Phoebe and Georgia; and me to our new Millikin home! Be sure to watch for the four of us as we walk on campus and throughout the community, and please come and have conversation with us as we practice the public health guidelines we all now know by heart.
Continue the awesome job you are doing to stay safe and healthy, and remember that all of the Millikin family is here for you. We wish you all the best during this unprecedented time and hope that you continue to help us to support our beloved campus community!
Sincerely, Sue Reynolds
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 23 ANNUAL REPORT ALUMNI & DEVELOPMENT Ways to Give Establishing an Corporation & Endowed Fund Foundation Development 2020 YEAR IN REVIEW At Millikin University, we are enthusiastically thinking about our future. We are looking Endowed funds allow donors to make Some of the largest impacts to the Millikin forward with anticipation, and we just can’t a gift that supports the extended future University campus have come from the wait to see what is in store for us. Our future of the University. An endowed fund support of corporations and foundations. at Millikin isn’t just bright, it’s BRIGHT can support scholarships, professorships Corporate and foundation support has ENROLLMENT RACE/ETHNICITY BLUE, and by partnering with us, you play and/or operating funds in a variety of funded scholarships, constructed buildings, an important role in that future! There are University areas. The reliable, long-term created new programs and underwritten WHITE : 68.7% TRADITIONAL many ways that you can get involved in giving support provided by endowed funds research across the campus. These UNDERGRADUATE 1,897 BLACK/AFRICAN AMERICAN : 14.7% to Millikin University. While we have listed allows Millikin to make commitments organizations serve as vital partners with us in HISPANIC : 5.2% some of those ways below, it would also be our in perpetuity, knowing that resources to carrying out the mission of the University. ADULT 54% 46% FLEX PROGRAM 99 UNKNOWN : 5.1% FEMALE MALE pleasure to work with you on creating a custom meet those commitments will continue TWO OR MORE RACES : 3.6% plan that allows you to make a Big Blue impact to be available. GRADUATE Matching Gifts PROGRAM 88 ASIAN : 2.6% on our campus and the lives of its students. You can maximize the impact of your gift if AMER.INDIAN/ALASKAN < 1% Planned Giving you or your spouse work for, or are retired TOTAL ENROLLMENT 2,084 HAWAIIAN/PACIFIC.IS < 1% Making a planned gift is a method from, a company with a matching gift Annual Giving of showing support and appreciation program. Each year, thousands of dollars in Gifts to Annual Scholarships and the Millikin for Millikin while accommodating potential matching gifts go unclaimed. Visit Fund support the greatest needs of the your own personal, financial, estate- millikin.edu/matching-gifts to find out if your 98% University, aiding our students, faculty and staff planning and philanthropic goals. company will double your impact through a 114 33 in fulfilling Millikin’s mission. These areas rely With smart planning, you may matching gift. STUDENTS actually increase the size of your estate INTERNATIONAL COUNTRIES on regular yearly contributions, which create Whatever method of support you choose, and/or reduce the tax burden on heirs. RECEIVE vital and dependable support for the institution. please know that your commitment to the STUDENTS REPRESENTED Planned gifts provide donors with an FINANCIAL AID Every dollar makes a difference, and gifts of future of Millikin University and the success immediate tax deduction and other any amount are appreciated. You can offer your of its students is a source of great pride for possible benefits such as life income, annual support to Millikin by making a one- us! With heartfelt appreciation, we extend continued use of gift property or time or recurring gift in these areas: our sincerest gratitude to all of our donors elimination of capital gains tax. $49.1M 40 21% for their partnership with us in preparing our FINANCIAL AID ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIPS students for professional success, democratic STATES FROM OUTSIDE Capital Projects citizenship in a global environment, and GIVEN Gifts to Annual Scholarships help ensure Giving to a capital project helps to personal lives of meaning and value. From the REPRESENTED OF ILLINOIS a quality education for students who might create or maintain University assets bottom of our Big Blue hearts, thank you! otherwise be unable to afford to attend or infrastructure. Millikin continually Millikin University. Our students make MU assesses the needs for construction, a big, BRIGHT BLUE place for us, and your FY20 GIFT expansions and/or renovations for new HOW TO GIVE dedicated support to Annual Scholarships will or existing facilities and equipment on DESIGNATIONS help them realize how dedicated our alumni and Millikin University offers several ways in campus in order to continue to meet friends are to supporting their future success! which donors can make their gifts. ENDOWED $801,444 ENDOWMENT : $94,270,603 the needs of students, programming ONLINE: SCHOLARSHIPS 12% MILLIKIN FUND and other University initiatives. PERFORMANCE $285,901 Currently, fundraising is underway for Visit millikin.edu/give to make a LEARNING 4% Gifts to the Millikin Fund are an important new and enhanced athletic facilities. one-time or recurring gift via credit card. CAPITAL $3,953,014 part of the University’s budget and support PROJECTS 57% ENDOWMENT CALL: operational costs associated with providing OTHER $615,317 BREAKOUT 217.424.6383 to work directly FUNDRAISING 9% quality opportunities for Performance Learning LEARN with a member of our staff. ANNUAL FUND/ $1,267,450 58% : SCHOLARSHIPS to our students, giving them a head start on MORE AT SCHOLARSHIPS 18% MAIL YOUR GIFT TO: 30% : OPERATIONS/BUDGET OFFSET professional success. These gifts may even be millikin.edu/mpowered 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, IL 62522, TOTAL DOLLARS: $6,923,126 12% : OTHER (AWARDS, ENDOWED FUNDS, ETC.) directed to specific colleges, academic departments and athletic teams. Attn: Alumni & Development Office
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 25 WRITTEN BY: CAROLINE COLBY BRUDER J.D., CLASS OF 2008 FEATURE FEATURE
years. The Greshams ran Lock Stock & Barrel (LSB), a restaurant and bar CELEBRATING adjacent to Millikin’s campus, for more than 30 years. “Little did I know that my THE CLASS OF 1970 close relationship with Millikin would last another three decades. Jim and I purchased LSB in 1978 and owned and operated it for 32 years. We cherished the friendships and support of the MU staff, faculty and students,” she said. Members of the Class of 1970 were college DR. MICHAEL “Over the years, there have been so many KARASIS positive changes. MU is continually students during one meeting demands for a curriculum Dr. Linton, who will retire from Millikin KATHRYN “KATHY” that prepares students for their future,” of the most turbulent Dr. Michael Karasis came to Millikin FARLEIGH GRESHAM in December 2020, knew from a young times in U.S. history, from Woodstock, Ill., as a pre-med Gresham said. “I’d personally like to age that she wanted to be a nurse. thank all of the people whose generous as the Vietnam student in 1966. “There were a lot of Kathryn “Kathy” Farleigh Gresham of “Nursing has struggled with educational political things going on at the time, gifts have advanced Millikin’s vision.” preparation from its beginning, moving War, civil rights Decatur also graduated in 1970 and has [such as] the Kent State massacre and many wonderful memories of her time at from a hospital-based apprentice model to conflicts, and other the Vietnam War, so we turned to Millikin. A lot has changed since she was a university-based curriculum today and domestic and global entertainment a lot,” Dr. Karasis said. a student — freshman students had to has been identified as the most trusted “Basketball at MU was huge then. We wear beanies and girls had a dress code. profession for the past 17 years,” she said. concerns provided had an amazing basketball player named Dr. Linton returned to serve her alma That love of music led Dr. Karasis to explore Residence halls had curfews, pay phones the backdrop against Jesse Price [also a member of the Class mater as a faculty member in 1980 and music composition. Now, in addition to and cigarette vending machines. “There of 1970 and an Athletic Hall of Fame was the first female tenure-track faculty which they lived, his successful urology practice, he writes were no classes on Wednesday but inductee]. He was like the Michael member to request maternity leave. There studied and worked. musical compositions that are performed mandatory chapel at Albert Taylor Hall,” Jordan of Millikin. In fact, Decatur were few women on faculty at Millikin in the Chicago area and by the Millikin- Gresham said. Today, these alumni once again had a Jesse Price Day to celebrate him, prior to the nursing program. Decatur Symphony Orchestra. find themselves living through a complete with billboards!” Homecoming house decks and an all As an alumna of the program she serves, period of historical significance, Dr. Karasis divides his time between student and alumni dance were a part “There was also lots of construction Dr. Linton is particularly equipped to the COVID-19 pandemic. As it Woodstock and Decatur, and he still stops of the Homecoming festivities. School on campus while I was a student,” Dr. speak to the specific strengths of Millikin’s has for many recent events, the by campus a few times a year. “A lot has dances were in the Old Gym, but larger Karasis said. “Kirkland Fine Arts Center nursing program. “The School of Nursing pandemic altered our plans for changed since I was a student; Mills Hall, events such as basketball games and a and Griswold Physical Education DR. MARY JANE has grown so much in many ways since its Homecoming 2020, preventing where I spent most of my time, is gone,” concert with the Supremes were held Center were completed while I was OVERBAY LINTON beginning,” she said. “Our master’s entry the Class of 1970 from celebrating he said. However, some things remain the at what was then the Stephen Decatur [here]. Our class’ baccalaureate was the degree program is especially a point of their 50th class reunion in person. same. “Shilling Hall, which we called, ‘The High School Kintner gymnasium. “We Dr. Mary Jane Overbay Linton has a first event held in Kirkland.” pride. I have taught in the program since To help them celebrate virtually, we Old Main,’ is such a beautiful building,” studied hard in the stacks at the Gorin unique perspective, as both a graduate of its beginning. The students are motivated, reached out to some Class of 1970 Although Dr. Karasis devoted most he said. “I visit a few times a year and just Library and commencement exercises the Class of 1970 and a tenured faculty driven to learn and incredibly successful!” alumni and invited them to share of his free time to studying to get into remember. Attending Millikin was an were at the Fairview Park pavilion. While member for more than 40 years. She their Big Blue memories. medical school, eventually graduating amazing experience — the most amazing off campus we frequented Sandy’s, the remembers her time as a student fondly, Millikin University wants to wish from Loyola University in Chicago, four years I’ve ever lived.” Eldorado Bowl, The Winery and Ralph’s though much was different, including the entire Class of 1970 its heartiest Millikin was where he discovered his Pub for burgers and libation. To-go milk the dress code for students. congratulations and its deepest thanks for other love — music. “I spent most of gallon jugs of draft beer from Ralph’s the impact they have made on our campus “In those days, women had to wear a my weekends in the music building, were popular with the students living off — and on the world — over the last five dress or skirt to attend class and eat in practicing on the pianos,” he said. campus,” said Gresham. decades. Congratulations, Class of 1970! the dining hall,” she recalled. “In fact, Kathy and her husband, Jim, also there was a person at the door to the provided the setting for many of MU dining hall who would check to make students’ favorite memories over the sure!” Men were required the equivalent of “business casual” today.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 27 WRITTEN BY: DR. CRAIG WHITE WRITTEN BY: NATHAN CAMERON ATHLETICS REPORT
ATHLETICS ADAPTING IN In March 2020, a very significant Dr. Craig challenge presented itself for all of COVID-19 CLIMATE college athletics. White Having sports seasons canceled was both shocking and Athletic Director incredibly disappointing — it’s something as an athletic director I never wanted to have to do. This fall, it was hoped On March 12, 2020, that we would be able to compete, but unfortunately that the world of collegiate turned out not to be the case. athletics came to an Beginning in late July, it became apparent that this fall would abrupt halt and the become something quite different and unexpected. To this COVID-19 pandemic end, the fall season has consisted of a phased plan of lifting weights and conditioning in pods of 10 or fewer. hit home for Millikin University’s student- Practices began officially on Sept. 16 for all sports except athletes. wrestling and men’s and women’s basketball, which started on Oct. 1. Wrestling and indoor track and field were wrapping up their seasons only beneficial to staying in competition teams have formed “pods” to work out in, This summer, members of the University and Athletics staff and gearing up for the National shape, it’s also beneficial to their mental breaking up their squad into smaller groups collaborated to develop a plan to navigate athletics during the Championships and baseball, softball, health by keeping connected with their to limit the amount of people in one area. pandemic. That plan covers everything from self-monitoring tennis and golf were at the very teammates and coaches. symptoms, temperature checks and paying special attention beginning of their seasons in the spring. On top of creating smaller groups within to cleaning the facilities we utilize. A second training room All sports that were on the road were “Returning to campus in the midst of a teams to limit exposure, extra workout was also created in a classroom in the Griswold Physical told to immediately return home as pandemic has presented much uncertainty equipment and facilities have been Education Center to ensure our student-athletes can still spring break was extended to allow time and many overwhelming emotions for established, including an outdoor weight receive quality treatment from our athletic training staff to shift classes to online formats, and all any student-athlete, but there’s comfort in room at Frank M. Lindsay Field. while following COVID-19 safety guidelines. Our student- athletic competitions were canceled. knowing that you have your teammates In an effort to adapt to the current climate athletes, coaches and staff have been working diligently to by your side during the entire process,” Months later, student-athletes in the pandemic, coaches are having to get follow the guidelines that are in place. said Shelby Jones, a junior social science returned to campus ready to get back creative with their training sessions and education major and member of the The goal this fall is to get better in the skill areas of each to competing. While the College workouts. Entering his second season as women’s tennis team. “Being with sport, to get stronger and to condition to compete in the Conference of Illinois & Wisconsin head coach of the men’s volleyball program, teammates creates some normalcy in the winter season. As it stands right now, we will be competing (CCIW) postponed fall sports to the Dylan Lasher has found ways to utilize sense that we are able to come together in all sports in the winter and spring. spring of 2021, the Big Blue’s athletic other avenues to get practice time in by with positivity as we continue to motivate teams are using this time to train and get purchasing nets to play volleyball on grass. While it is enjoyable to have student-athletes back on one another to strive for excellence in the back in a routine to compete when that campus and coaches back coaching, it is still a far cry from classroom and on the court.” “Grass volleyball is a great way for our time comes. competing. What keeps everyone going is the promise of student-athletes to get outside, space out For the first three weeks of the semester, having athletic competition again in the winter and spring At the beginning of the fall semester, and get a better idea of what playing in the all athletics teams were limited to strength with some sports having reduced schedules, and hopefully all student-athletes were given a gym would be like,” said Lasher. “Playing and conditioning activities only. Before back to normal in fall 2021. COVID-19 plan for athletics that on the grass is more similar to playing on being able to train, student-athletes outlined the measures the University a gym floor than playing on sand, so it’s a must complete a self-assessment of their and the Department of Athletics were great option for us to have.” symptoms and have their temperature taking to return to practice safely. As a taken and recorded by athletic training While there may not be any games this SUPPORT result, practices looked a little different staff. During these training sessions, fall, the Big Blue athletes are going to be MAKE AN this year. IMPACT AT athletes, coaches and athletic trainers are utilizing the extra time to train and prepare As different as practices may be, required to wear face coverings and stay to hit the ground running in the spring. millikin.edu/give keeping student-athletes active is not socially distanced, when possible. Some
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 29 WRITTEN BY: DANE LISSER COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES
EXCELLING IN NEW LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
The COVID-19 pandemic disease in tadpoles. Senior Jazmin “Over the past 10 years, there have Brown [seen pictured alongside Dr. been 37 publications in peer-reviewed has altered many things Wilcoxen] has been utilizing the one- journals from the Biology Department Dr. Randy across Millikin University’s on-one research opportunities to study with Millikin student authors. An campus during the fall toxoplasmosis in birds. average of 3.7 per year is very high for semester, from classes to a school our size,” Wilcoxen said. “This Brooks “Some things are very appropriate for is a great example of the emphasis that athletics. what is going on in our world. I’m a we place on becoming scientists rather wildlife disease researcher, and while I Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences However, these changes have not than just science students.” don’t have anyone specifically working slowed down the Performance with COVID, some of the diseases Two recent graduates, Mackenzie Peck, Learning curriculum that thrives that we study do jump from animals Class of 2017, and Erin Lukens, Class across the campus community. The faculty in the College of Arts into humans, like COVID-19,” of 2019, both had their research papers and Sciences have quickly adjusted In the College of Arts and Sciences, said Wilcoxen. from their work at Millikin published students are continuing to excel in in academic journals. Elyse Schnabel, to online learning opportunities In reference to the study on new learning environments, especially Class of 2018, also had her research and found ways to maximize time toxoplasmosis, Wilcoxen said, “We through independent research published in Fish Physiology and have a relationship with the Illinois together with students on Zoom opportunities that are being conducted Biochemistry International Journal, Raptor Center where we’ve conducted or with small numbers of socially in labs. while graduates Samuel Billig, Class many research projects, and one of our of 2020, and Rachel Weber, Class of distanced students in person. For Dr. Travis Wilcoxen, associate students is trying to see how frequently 2017, were lead authors on a paper example, all chemistry labs are still professor of physiological ecology and toxoplasmosis gets into the blood of published in a special issue of Journal birds of prey who are eating mice that in person with about seven students chair of the Biology Department at of Experimental Zoology. Millikin, is among the many faculty have the parasite.” in a laboratory at a time. members ramping up research efforts “Science is a process, and when you Wilcoxen says the research serves this fall. Several of Wilcoxen’s students teach students how to think through multiple benefits, such as understanding are conducting research studies on a process and when they experience the movement of the parasite. “It The biggest challenge has been to find new ways birds and tadpoles, and while everyone something new they have never seen also helps the Illinois Raptor Center of engagement, active learning, dynamic Socratic is staying socially distant, each of his before, they have the skills to work understand the degree to which their debate and community, although students and students have their own time in the through it,” Wilcoxen said. “They birds might be exposed to that parasite,” teachers may be physically distant from each lab to work on their projects. are taught to find evidence, build an he noted. other. The learning goals for courses have not argument and to ask questions.” Student Kimmy Christnacht, a senior changed — to prepare students for professional These particular research projects in the theatre and biology double major, is success, a personal life of meaning and value, Biology Department serve as valuable studying malaria in birds, while senior and to be citizens in a global society. I applaud learning experiences for undergraduates Erika Castanon is studying biomarkers the faculty and students for their dedication to as they prepare for the next step - of natural stressors in birds. Senior learning and growth. graduate school. This is proven as Brianna Niebrugge is studying natural Millikin has seen great success of alumni antibody production during a stress completing their research and having LEARN MORE response in birds, while senior Aaron their work published in state, national Gamsby is researching training of millikin.edu/college-arts-sciences and international journals. innate immune defenses against
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 31 WRITTEN BY: SYDNEY MCREYNOLDS, CLASS OF 2019 COLLEGE OF FINE ARTS
ADAPTING DURING UNPRECEDENTED TIMES Laura When Ashten Smith, The idea for these flute masks came after Ledford Amanda Pond, adjunct faculty of flute at a senior music major, Millikin University, started looking for masks Dean of the College of Fine Arts prepared to return to designed for flute players. While they do campus for school this exist, they are hard to come by and would not arrive in time for the start of the semester. fall, she and her flutist That is where Smith’s skills came in to play. Students and faculty in the College of Fine Arts are colleagues were faced adjusting to a new world of virtual instruction, physical with a problem regarding “I had offered up the option of, ‘Hey, I sew,’” Smith said. distancing and practicing their art in unexpected ways. their rehearsals and Smith made two prototype masks for Pond Life, and learning, goes on. Right now most of the businesses, industries and performances: How were to consider. After Pond decided which was “We have grown a lot more, seeing myself organizations that employ artists are either struggling or shut down, so in many they going to play their ways this is a great time to be in school learning your craft as well as you can, in going to be the one her section used, Smith from my sophomore year to now,” Smith anticipation of what is expected to be an explosion of opportunities when the flutes while wearing masks? went to work sewing masks for every flute said about her growth from Dr. Corey pandemic passes. player in the ensemble. Seapy's mentorship. Unlike other musical instruments, flutes Several courses in the arts disciplines — those that are about art — are being are played from the side, and the sound With the coronavirus guidelines, practices Being back on campus might be different conducted virtually. Courses like Music History, Art History and Advanced Play comes from the mouthpiece area. and performances for groups like Millikin’s than anyone had hoped for this semester, Analysis can, without much pedagogical disruption, be delivered virtually, with class Symphonic Wind Ensemble look a little but Smith and her fellow students in Smith explained, “The flute’s kind of discussion held on Zoom. different. the School of Music are taking all of the unique, because it comes from the side. It’s changes in stride. Smith said, “We kind Artists learn to make art by making art. It’s that simple. But it gets complicated the only instrument like that. The other Smith explained, “Instead of us being of came in knowing and expecting [what under the restrictions of COVID-19. Most practice-based courses are delivered sections really aren’t struggling as much crammed into K136 [a classroom in Kirkland in a hybrid format, meaning the students are divided into groups who alternate would occur]. Our professors did a really with disposable masks that they cut a little Fine Arts Center] as a big group, we’re kind attending classes face to face with participating online. Faculty teach these courses good job of preparing us as to what we slit in. They can still get away with the of separated into six to 10 groups of seven. for those students present and those watching on Zoom simultaneously. Students were going to expect.” hole in the masks and just putting their He [Dr. Corey Seapy, assistant professor and take one-on-one applied lessons either in person with clear plastic dividers between instrument in.” director of bands at Millikin] has picked out teachers and students, or remotely with high-quality microphones and recording While everything might not be “back small chamber pieces for us to play like that to normal,” the students are still doing capabilities. It was much harder for flute players to with our masks and socially distanced.” what they love and making the most out simply cut a hole into a disposable mask in The biggest challenge we have faced is providing students, particularly in the of their Millikin experience during these performing arts, with opportunities to work in large ensembles like choirs, theatre order to play their instruments effectively Smith came to Millikin with the unprecedented times. productions and instrumental ensembles. We have moved rehearsals outdoors or to while still limiting the spread of germs. encouragement of her family and band large indoor spaces with special precautions for increased social distancing. directors, who are Millikin alumni. She knew Millikin was known for its great music Through it all, artists will make art no matter what the impediments. That’s just programs, and she had a passion for playing how they’re built. We are here for that, and to provide the guidance, facilities and the flute. Learning at the University and SUPPORT opportunities they need, however we can. playing in the ensembles on campus have TO SUPPORT THE We will be thrilled, one day soon, to open the doors to our audiences in Kirkland helped Smith grow as a musician. PATRONS SOCIETY, Fine Arts Center, Albert Taylor Theatre, Kaeuper Hall and the magnificent Center VISIT for Theatre & Dance. Until then, the work goes on. millikin.edu/patrons-society
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 33 WRITTEN BY: DANE LISSER COLLEGE OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
SHOWING DETERMINATION
“They have shown their “Our goal was to front load our lab and The simulation experience has always clinicals at the beginning so our students been invaluable to the School of Nursing determination and could get as much clinical and lab experience in preparing students to work in the “real adaptability during this in the first part of the semester in case we world.” With losing that lab time last unparalleled time in our had to transition to a fully online delivery spring, students have been taking advantage history.” mode like last semester,” Tirpak said. of extra practice this fall. Millikin nursing faculty have had to get “Many students have been coming in to Those are the words used by Dr. Pamela creative with their scheduling, especially the lab to gain extra practice on skills that Lindsey, dean of the College of Professional with the availability of a clinical site. In the they may not have had the opportunity Studies, to describe the efforts of faculty past, students would normally start their to complete or observe last semester, like and students from the Millikin School clinical experience during the third week IV insertion, working with IV pumps, of Nursing, School of Education and the of the semester, but this fall, most clinical injections, Foley insertion, suture/staple School of Exercise Science & Sport during experiences started the first week, some even removal, nasogastric tube insertions and these unprecedented times. on the very first day of class. physical assessment practice,” Tirpak said. The College of Professional Studies faculty, “Because our students are caring for patients The commitment shown by Tirpak and along with their colleagues across campus, during their clinicals who may be in the her colleagues in supporting students in have had to adapt and modify their course high risk category for COVID-19, most of learning during this challenging time has delivery due to the COVID-19 pandemic. the clinical courses are having the students certainly made an impact. Given the autonomy to choose delivery complete the theory portion of the course Dr. Pamela modes, faculty are teaching in a variety online, to minimize exposure,” Tirpak said. of methods including face to face, online “That way, those students are only in contact [synchronous or asynchronous] and/or Lindsey with their same clinical group and clinical/lab hybrid. instructor each week.” Dean of the College of Professional Studies Andrea Tirpak, nursing and clinical This fall, the Millikin School of Nursing simulation lab coordinator for Millikin’s provided masks and face shields for faculty School of Nursing, is among the faculty and students to use during clinicals or lab. Faculty very thoughtfully determined the mode of members working diligently to make sure Fortunately this fall, the students are still able delivery best for their courses and for their students. It that Millikin students are getting the most to gain hands-on clinical experiences at local hands-on experience possible. This has been has required them to be flexible and nimble with the ever hospitals. changing status and needs of students. I could not be extremely vital to students in the School of Nursing, because their clinical and lab “The School of Nursing provided no-touch more proud of their dedication and adaptability during experiences were cut short during the spring thermometers to our clinical instructors, this unparalleled time in our history. They have shown 2020 semester. and the students are screened by the clinical site and faculty before they are allowed on their determination in delivering on the promise of Tirpak teaches Health Assessment, a course the floor to care for patients,” Tirpak said. education as envisioned by James Millikin, despite the that focuses on the necessary skills to “Because of the limited number of students perform a physical examination. Students challenges they face on a day-to-day basis. allowed on the floor or in a room, pre- and practice these skills in a laboratory or clinical post-conferences have been taking place LEARN MORE setting. outside or over Zoom.” millikin.edu/cps
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 35 WRITTEN BY: DANE LISSER TABOR SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
A BETTER NORMAL
In the Tabor School of “Very quickly, the class recognized that the Throughout the project, the students primary issues that the Children’s Museum have been working remotely with online Business, faculty, staff and are working through are not systems issues meetings and class sessions. The students students are collectively at all — but rather pandemic issues,” Weber recognized this as another opportunity building a normal. said. “When the primary activity of the to improve their online meeting skills Children’s Museum is to provide hands-on with an expectation that it would become “A better normal. Faculty are agile and exploratory and fun activities for children an ongoing work requirement at many optimistic. They are leveraging technology — and then a pandemic comes along and potential hiring organizations in the to offer Performance Learning projects and prevents all of the specific things that the future. The students are also using the fall personalized education,” said Dr. Najiba Children’s Museum offers — then it requires semester’s online class environment as a Benabess, dean of the Tabor School of some significant outside-of-the-box thinking means to hone their remote interpersonal Business. “Some students are able to attend and analysis to come up with some new ideas skills. class in person, and others are able to join for temporary revenue sources.” remotely and participate in real-time class “The students have adapted phenomenally discussion. Weber added, “We discussed in our class to their ‘new normal.’ They have quickly at length the old adage that if the only tool come to understand some of the limitations The pandemic is helping the Tabor School in one’s toolbox is a hammer, then every of the remote environment, and how of Business be a stronger and more resilient problem or opportunity starts to look like a important it is to be able to really make school of business as faculty are working very nail.” sure that true communications and Dr. Najiba hard to create learning environments that understanding between the parties The class fully recognized that the current encourage students to interact, engage and are taking place,” Weber said. “While need for the Children’s Museum was not Benabess perform. there were, understandably, a couple of a systems issue at all, but rather an interim missteps early on, the students have shown This is evident this fall as Ed Weber, clinical funding need. The students began applying Dean of the Tabor School of Business exceptional resiliency by learning very well instructor of management information their newly developed analysis and design from those early mistakes, and they are systems, is leading students to assist skills, but applied them in the context of continuing to impress both me and the the Children’s Museum of Illinois in a developing immediate, short-term and This pandemic reminds us that we are all connected like never client with their efforts and successes.” Performance Learning project that is before. We are called upon to be our best selves, with patience, long-term supplemental funding ideas for the benefiting the organization. Children’s Museum to consider. understanding and compassion. We are collaborating with local The former CEO of the Children’s Museum, high school teachers to support their efforts teaching and serving Some of the ideas have already been Amber VanMeter Kaylor, Class of 2006/ their students more effectively in this new distance-learning presented and accepted by the Children’s MBA 2016, is a member of the Tabor Museum, and the class is currently working environment. We are also partnering with local small businesses School of Business Dean’s Business Council on design and implementation strategies to assist them with some challenges they are facing due to (DBC). Kaylor reached out to Dr. Benabess for the accepted projects for the rest of the the pandemic, and we are serving as an active member of the to discuss some of the challenges that the semester. Children’s Museum was experiencing due Greater Decatur Black Chamber of Commerce to support their to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Benabess mission and advance their goals to develop, educate and empower put a call out to Tabor faculty to see about African-American businesses. Collectively, we can build a better a potential opportunity for a project. Weber LEARN MORE knew it would be perfect for his Systems normal with equitable access to education for all students. millikin.edu/tabor Analysis and Design course.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 37 WRITTEN BY: ALYSE KNUST UNIVERSITYALUMNI LEGACY HISTORY ALUMNI LEGACY
BIG BLUE RUNS IN THE FAMILY When Dianne Hill Fischer, Class of 1975, began attending Millikin University, being Big Blue was already a family tradition. Her paternal grandparents, Roy Bell Hill, Class of 1911, and Helen Deakins Hill, Class of 1913, attended what were then called the Decatur College and Industrial School Academy and the Millikin Conservatory of Music, respectively.CHAIR, AfterEXCERCISE serving in World War II, Fischer’s father, Joseph Robert SCIENCE AND SPORT Hill,DIRECTOR, Class of 1943,ATHLETIC enrolled at Millikin, meeting and subsequently marrying ORAL fellow student,TRAINING Mary Frushour Hill, Class of 1948. Many of Fischer’s aunts and uncles also attended, including Dr. Orville F. Hill, Class of 1940, who was presented with an honorary doctorate from Millikin in 1963 in recognition of his career as a chemist with the Manhattan Project. Dianne Hill Fischer HISTORY Class of 1975 By the time Fischer was ready to attend college in the early 1970s, it was only AND DATA PROJECT natural that she join her sister, Nancy Hill Mitchell, Class of 1972, at Millikin. By this time, their mother, Mary, was also working in the dean of students’ office. “My sister was a senior when I was a freshman. Wanting to be my own person, I tried to not use the family connections … except when I needed the car,” Fischer remembered.
Millikin currently boasts 101 legacy students. Legacies, like Fischer, are defined as the children, grandchildren or great-grandchildren of alumni of the institution. We are honored that five percent of our 2020-21 student body represent a close familial tie to Millikin. With our ever-changing To that end, we have partnered with to collect the rich history of the Publishing Concepts Inc. (PCI) University. These stories will be environment, Millikin to collect and update our alumni collated and turned into a coffee table University and the directory and complete an Oral book that showcases Millikin’s history ALUMNI LEGACY Alumni Association History Project to capture Millikin’s through the eyes of those that know us unique history via story telling directly best: You. SCHOLARSHIP are focused on staying from you, our alumni. connected, boosting After PCI has recapped your story, To recognize our legacy families and their continued participation in the life MU’s national rankings In the coming months, PCI will the oral history book and other Big of Millikin, the University offers an Alumni/Legacy Scholarship to students contact you to confirm your contact Blue product bundles will be available and building connections who are carrying on the Big Blue tradition. Students with an alumnus parent, information and capture personal for purchase — including options to grandparent or great-grandparent are eligible to apply for a $1,000 per year within our Big Blue stories about your time at Millikin. donate to Millikin. scholarship, renewable for four years. Recipients must maintain satisfactory community. Not sure which stories to tell? Think Please do not feel pressured to buy academic progress and remain enrolled on a full-time basis for renewal. about the experiences that defined anything … your stories are what The Alumni and Development Office also honors legacies by taking a your time on campus — Freshmen matter most! complimentary photograph of graduates and their legacy family members Week, Rush, Athletics, photos with on Commencement day. In addition to parents and grandparents, these the Bronze Man, Vespers, etc. All We thank you for your participation in the Oral History Project. photos often feature extended family members, including spouses, siblings, stories are valuable in our mission cousins and more who are Millikin alumni, capturing the breadth of Millikin LEARN LEARN MORE AT MORE AT experiences these multigenerational families share with one another. millikin.edu/oral-history millikin.edu/alumnilegacy-scholarship
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 39 WRITTEN BY: JEREMY COULTER, CLASS OF 2000 ALUMNI PROFILE ALUMNI PROFILE
MAKE IT BETTER
Zach & Using this guiding principle has paid The Uttichs also used the demands off — in 2020, BLVDier opened a new of the pandemic as an excuse to get storefront nearly double the size of its creative. Kirsten previous space. At the same time, they “We already had a small web store dramatically expanded the clothing built out, but we hired our friend Alex Uttich and accessory options they offer, all Maier to be our creative director and while continuing to focus on adding went to town building out more robust non-traditional customers to their Class of 2007 social media content and planning new growing clientele. product. We launched the drawstring “We’re still the most accessibly priced, trouser option in April and cheekily canvassed custom suit made from called it the WFH [work from home] Italian fabrics in Chicago. But we’ve pant. … We had clients order clothing just expanded our outerwear options via email, FaceTime, Zoom, text, etc.” Zachary “Zach” Uttich five-fold; collaborated on a limited- As part of the larger business and his wife, Kirsten edition watch; and added overshirts, community in the City of Big T-shirts, drawstring trousers and an Williams Uttich, Shoulders, the Uttichs also stepped up array of accessories for clients who to help colleagues in need: both Class of 2007, don’t wear suits as often as others. … “I often think of our time at have made a name for I’d tell anyone looking into custom “Chicago has had an interesting year. themselves as custom clothing to know that it is less Along with the multiple peaceful Millikin as being well rounded. I clothiers. Owners of expensive and more approachable protests there were several days where cherished my time in the theatre than they think it is. It’s also a more looting occurred. We were fortunate department (and subsequently as Chicago’s BLVDier, sustainable way to shop.” enough to not have incurred any a working actor in Chicago), but damage to our store, but there were the Uttichs’ business Like many business owners in 2020, I also appreciated my time on a number of retailers who [did]. We though, the Uttichs found “business as model has been guided reached out to some of our colleagues the Homecoming Committee, usual” put on hold as they were forced by the mantra, “Make it to offer our storefront in case they as a Delta Sig, working in the to navigate the new normal created by needed to conduct business while better.” But how do you COVID-19. Admission Office and other fixing up their spaces.” extracurriculars. As small improve on a custom “We moved into our new storefront When asked which experiences at business owners, we have to wear clothing experience on March 12. Nine days later, the city Millikin have contributed to their mandated retail stores close to the a lot of hats. My time at Millikin that’s existed for success, Zach had a characteristically public. … Ultimately, the shift from was about wearing as many hats custom answer: centuries? working in an office to working from as possible so that I could not “Plenty of stores nowadays are home has been bizarre for most people. “Kirsten and I often joke that we have only become efficient at wearing concerned with getting you to Our clients won’t be working from no idea what we’re doing as small multiple hats, but open my eyes purchase something quickly and home forever, and we often remind business owners. Neither of us took to ones I didn’t know existed. getting you out the door even them that we don’t just make clothes advantage of the plethora of business quicker. Whereas our business is for their workplace. We are in business classes at Millikin (which we regret in While I’m partial to President predicated on spending an hour to outfit clients for special occasions retrospect). But we’ve made over 7,000 [Douglas] Zemke, as he served going over your wardrobe, your (weddings, charity events, etc.) as garments for 3,000 clients in the last MU for the four years I was build/physique, your likes/dislikes well as when they go on a date or a 5 1/2 years. We purchased a storefront, there, that last line was in honor and building garments that vacation. … [and] who’s to say you hired employees, pay our taxes and of President [Patrick] White and can’t wear a tweed sport coat to a local support our local economy. compliment your features and his love of hats.” add depth to your closet.” restaurant’s patio in the mean time?”
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 41 ALUMNI STORIES ALUMNI STORIES
ADAPTING TO THE TIMES MILLIKIN ALUM SERVING The coronavirus pandemic has, in one way or another, impacted all of AS A LEADER IN NATIONAL our lives. Whether you are a front-line essential worker, small business PREPAREDNESS WITH FEMA owner or a teacher, the pandemic has changed our normal means of operation. We caught up with some members of the Big Blue family to get a firsthand perspective on how they have adapted. When a disaster strikes, Leiloni Oakes Stainsby knows how to have communities ready for it. MILLIKIN school - a degree path that requires an On April 20, Krajec began orientation NURSING incredible amount of work in and out online for her job at the hospital. While of the classroom. she was a little nervous to be taking the The 2001 Millikin University graduate is testing that we now have nationwide. My GRADUATE leap, the excitement of being a part of Upon graduation, Krajec began her making a name for herself at the Federal job was to work with the states and the TRAVELS TO the fight against COVID-19 made it career in nursing, eventually becoming Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), FEMA regions to make sure that we were all worth it. NEW YORK CITY a traveling nurse in 2017. However, so much so that this past June she was able to get appropriate information out to TO HELP FIGHT her volleyball career wasn’t over when Upon arriving in New York City, Krajec named the deputy assistant administrator the public about the testing sites.” at the Field Operations Directorate in PANDEMIC her time with the Big Blue ended. In said, “I know the next couple of months Stainsby said Millikin opened her mind the Office of Response and Recovery for 2018, Krajec was presented with the will not be easy. I hope to find light in and her curiosity so much so that she did opportunity to play in France. the dark situations, bring my energy FEMA. two alternative spring breaks; one trip to to the staff and patients that I’ll be Audrey Krajec left a After suiting up for the Big Blue and A skilled professional with experience the Bahamas for a research project and a working with and make a difference playing oversees in France, Krajec is leading national preparedness assessments, trip to Denver to help with the Denver lasting mark on the while being here. I cherish all of the now on a new team. On April 19, she Stainsby formerly served as the division Rescue Mission. lessons I’ve learned by being far from Millikin University arrived in New York City, where she director of the National Preparedness my comfort zone.” “Those are experiences I thought I would women’s volleyball worked as a nurse to help fight the Assessment Division (NPAD) at FEMA. never have. They were pivotal for me and COVID-19 pandemic for the next During the height of the pandemic in At NPAD, she provided oversight and team before graduating where I am now because they taught me eight weeks. At the time of Krajec’s New York City, area residents banged strategic direction for the development of to put myself out there,” Stainsby said. in 2015 with her degree arrival, New York City was considered on pots and pans and made as much national-level projects including the annual “Experiences like those have literally in nursing. the epicenter of the pandemic in the noise as possible at 7 p.m. local time National Preparedness Report, agency-wide United States. each evening, to signal their support of guided the rest of my life. I wouldn't have In her sophomore season in 2012, performance management initiatives, and those working on the front lines of the been that way if it wasn't for Millikin and Krajec became the first volleyball Krajec was set to fly from St. Louis grant performance measures and metrics. pandemic. for the faculty.” player at Millikin to be named a First to New York City, but her flight was Over the last few months, FEMA has Team All-American. She received the Stainsby added, “I do a lot of the same canceled, leaving her with a 14-hour With one of their own serving on the played an integral part in the response to honor again in her junior season and mentorship now for young FEMA solo trek to the east coast. front lines, the Big Blue family got out the COVID-19 pandemic that has turned again in 2014 as a senior, becoming employees because it’s really important their pots and pans and cheered Audrey the world upside down. This past March, the first Millikin women’s volleyball “It seemed as if there were many to encourage that type of creativity and Krajec on from 882 miles away. Stainsby began serving as the external affairs player to receive the honor three signs telling me not to go to work innovation. I never know what the next advisor for the community-based testing times. Krajec was also named CCIW on the front lines in the epicenter Whether it’s on the volleyball court thing is going to be, but I’m always open of the pandemic in New York City or during a global pandemic, Audrey sites task force. The task force is responsible Freshman of the Year in 2011 and was to it.” for helping set up some of the drive-thru named CCIW Co-Player of the Year … canceled flight, dreary weather, Krajec is certainly essential. testing sites across the country. in 2013 and 2014. In her sophomore, parents worried sick, many fears of the unknown,” said Krajec. junior and senior years, Krajec was the “Every FEMA employee, no matter what statistical champion in kills per set, After driving for two days, Krajec part of the organization you are in, has a with 4.89 kills per set as a junior in made it to the city, where she quickly disaster job. I volunteered to do external 2013 - good enough to be the NCAA unpacked and took a drive through affairs because that was a great need we statistical champion. Times Square with her new roommate. had,” Stainsby said. “Initially, we set up 40 While Krajec was setting school, As she describes it, the city was “eerie federally supported testing sites, which conference and NCAA records, she and desolate” as people were staying at really served as the model for the drive-thru was doing so all while going to nursing home to help slow the spread.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 43 ALUMNI STORIES
A RENEWED UNDERSTANDING OF MUSIC & LIFE
The COVID-19 pandemic has created particular challenges for educators, including Jade Gustavsen Blakey, Class of 2014, a vocal music education alumna and head choir director at Clear Lake High School in Houston. The pandemic has affected every Because they are limited in the amount of facet of Blakey’s job, all the way to the time they can sing, Blakey and her fellow curriculum. “We often have discussions educators are spending additional time on in faculty meetings about how ‘what’ we social-emotional curriculum, intentional teach hasn’t changed; only the ‘how’ has relationship development and community to shift. That’s not true for a curriculum building as they dedicate their efforts to that results in almost constant aerosol meet their students’ needs. “We know our “Music production and is also traditionally students are experiencing a lot of change. has survived studied in teams.” We want to be a space where students know it’s okay to be frustrated, confused millennia, so Singing time for students has been and all the things in between.” reduced to allow for adequate air I know we recycling between classes, social Blakey did note that not all changes distancing is difficult to maintain in wrought by the pandemic have been will survive classrooms not designed for it, and negative. She is able to spend more time teaching students to sing in masks has working individually with students, which this. Maybe been uniquely challenging. Additionally, helps to generate student confidence and we will as a program that is traditionally shared positive relationships. The experience has with others via live performances, music also provided a renewed understanding treasure it “demands an incredible amount of of the importance of music in her life and creativity to reimagine,” Blakey said. the lives of her students. more.”
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 45 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
THE BOARD THE PLAN Fast-forward 114 years, and the Millikin Alumni Association Board is steadfast in that work, making meaningful progress that will deliver on their mission. DID When James Millikin established the University in 1901, he envisioned a school YOU The Millikin University Alumni where “the scientific and industrial have a place of equal importance, side by KNOW... Association Board recently adopted a side, with the literary and classical.” strategic plan with three areas of focus: As Millikin alumni, we stand in proud support of that vision and want even Regional clubs have been established In 1906 the Millikin more students to have the opportunity to receive Millikin’s promise of education. in Bloomington/Normal, Chicago, 1. University Alumni Whether the Association is launching an “alumni club” in Chicago, like in 1919, Decatur, Indianapolis, Nashville and Strengthen the identity of the MU Alumni or awarding the first Alumnus of the Year Award in 1951, Millikin alumni have St. Louis. Connect to an active club, Association was formed a spirit of movement, bona fide “Millikin Momentum.” Association as the voice for all alumni with a mission to or start one in your area by visiting 2. The past three years have been especially noteworthy for the Millikin Alumni Increase personal engagement with recent establish and enhance millikin.edu/alumni-friends/ Association Board. With the generous support of board governance expert Bruce get-involved/join/regional- alumni the bond between Nims, Class of 1972, and many other dedicated alumni, the Board has seen clubs 3. alumni and the a total shift in governance and operations. Beginning with the establishment Increase alumni participation in MU Alumni of a first time Memorandum of Understanding with the University, meeting University. with campus stakeholders to reimagine how alumni collaborate, renewing Association activities their commitment to diversity, inclusion and equity — by way of enhancing Faculty/Staff the nominations process, and pledging 100% financial giving from all Board The strategic plan was developed over the summer months with input members each fiscal year — the Millikin Alumni Association Board has been Recognition Award from a variety of sources including the broader alumni base and University busy. All of this has laid critical groundwork that allowed regional alumni groups Established by the board last administration. This three-year plan is bold and provides a “runway for flight” to be (re)established and a new Faculty/Staff Recognition Award to be created, academic year, 2020 served as this that will allow the association to take off and soar as a beacon of longevity for with the first awardee honored virtually at Homecoming 2020. award’s inaugural year, recognizing a the University and the fond memories shared with fellow Millikin alumni. Millikin employee (past or present) THE who has demonstrated exceptional Beyond our newly adopted strategic plan, the Alumni Association Board is NEW MEMBERS eager to continue working closely with the Office of the President and Alumni MEMBERS investment and care for the academic, & Development. We have plans in place for meaningful enhancements to the professional and personal well-being alumni awards program, exciting expansion with regional alumni groups, and Millikin’s Alumni Association Board JaCarla Anderson, Class of 2020, Chicago Shane Mendenhall, Class of 2002, Mt. Zion, Ill. of students and alumni. To read about Darice Bailey, Class of 2001, North Hollywood, Calif. Amanda Morgan, Class of 2015, Aubrey, Texas will soon be launching an initiative to endow the Alumni Association Board members meet online monthly with the first recipient, see page 16. To Adrian “A.D.” Carson, Class of 2004, Charlottesville, Va. Melissa Nodurft, Class of 2012, Muskego, Wis. so that the resources needed to accomplish initiatives that strengthen the bond members located across America and nominate an employee for this award, Erica Lodovisi Drogoszewski, Class of 2001, Dallas Ariel Robinson, Class of 2013, Champaign, Ill. between alumni and the University are available in perpetuity. globally. Millikin and the Alumni or anyone for additional alumni Meridith Ewers, Class of 2005, Chicago Traccye Starling-Love, Class of 2005, Oak Park, Ill. Association celebrate 13 alumni awards, visit Courtney Goodwin, Class of 2008, Highland Park, Ill. Kendrick Tunstall, Class of 2008, Indianapolis joining the Millikin University Nicholas McClay, Class of 2005, Gallatin, Tenn. Alumni Association Board as new millikin.edu/awards members for a three-year term MEMBERS beginning in fall 2020: Janean Thompson Baird, Class of 1993, Bloomington, Ill., Secretary GET Ted Bliefnick, Class of 2004, Vernon Hills, Ill., Board Development Chair INVOLVED Joseph R. Havis, Class of 2004, St. Louis, Vice President Bruce W. Jeffery, Class of 2007, West Chester, Ohio IF YOU HAVE AN INTEREST Alyse Knust, Alumni & Development Office Liaison/Treasurer, Oreana, Ill. IN JOINING THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD PLEASE Paul Lidy, Class of 2004, Forsyth, Ill., Past President CONTACT ALYSE KNUST Trevor May, Class of 2017, Dundas, Ill., President Erica Melton McAdoo, Class of 2005, Los Angeles 217.424.3769 Susan Vaughan Nelson, Class of 1966, Indianapolis [email protected] Lauren Bringman Rodenbarger, Class of 2010, Zionsville, Ind. Mirinda Rothrock, Class of 2004, Decatur Lindsay Senalik, Class of 2004, Bluffton, S.C. Angie Balsamo Sohlberg, Class of 2005, Gothenburg, Sweden Jason White, Class of 2000, Decatur
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 47 CLASS NOTES CLASS NOTES
the Class 4A state championship baseball 1950 1960 Karen Godier Vehrs, Class of Tamara “Tami” Wilmeth Julia Schiminski Auton, Class of 1973, of Manteno, Ill., retired from Rush Oppedal, Class of 1979, of Sacramento, game. In 2020, he worked the girls state 1995, of Decatur is an instructor in Millikin
Medical Center on June 30, 2018, following Calif., retired from the University of championship game in Class 3A. Craig was University’s School of Nursing. Class of 1952, Allan Ferguson, Class of 1966, of H. Stanley Jones, 43 years as a registered nurse. California-Davis Health after 14 years, recently awarded the Bob Udell Baseball married Karin Johnson on Sept. 1, 2019. Denver is the author of a new book touting where she served as director of corporate Umpire of the Year Award for 2019 by the They live in Makakilo, Hawaii. the attractions and historic importance Class of 1974, of relations. Prior to her time with UC-Davis, Illinois High School Baseball Coaches of US Highway 36, which runs through Leonard Jenkins, Maryville, Ill., has retired after 40 years as a she spent 19 years working in the community Association. Decatur. Ferguson’s guidebook, “Route 36: certified registered nurse anesthetist. college system. Ohio to Colorado — America’s Heartland Holly Sullivan Dolan, Class of Highway,” details a drive through six states, Class of 1975, of 1980 1988, of Tualatin, Ore., is the registrar for from Uhrichsville, Ohio, to Estes Park, John Rickard, Byron, Ill., retired from the Presbytery of camp and retreat ministries for the Oregon- Colo. For more about Ferguson and his Blackhawk, Presbyterian Church (USA), Idaho United Methodist Church in Portland, book, visit www.us36guidebook.com. Class of 1982, Roberta Mize Slone, Ore. where he served as general presbyter/stated of Powder Springs, Ga., has published her 1970 clerk for the last 18 years. He retired on first cookbook, “So … What’s For Dinner?” Class of 1988, of Arcola, April 1, 2020. He was also elected mayor of It is available on Amazon. Chad Strader, Byron in April 2019. Ill., was named president of Ervin Equipment Lawrence Kelly, Class of 1970, of Inc. in October 2019. Headquartered in Herb Zuegel, Class of 1952, of Park Cincinnati retired in 2008 from Procter Kimberly Reinemann Vick, Toledo, Ill., Ervin Equipment is the largest Bryon Veech, Class of 1977, of Class of 1985, of Tinley Park, Ill., is a quality Ridge, Ill., cheered on the Big Blue and his & Gamble after a 38-year career in sales dealer of used semi-trailers in North America. Putnam, Ill., is currently managing director coordinator registered nurse with Dupage Cynthia Valerio Gallardo, Class granddaughter, Anne Longman, Class of management. of plant operations at Newton Power Chad has been with the company for 13 years. of 1995, of Lafayette, La., graduated from 2022, at the Keck Invitational indoor track Medical Group in Lombard, Ill. Kimberly Station in Newton, Ill. is also a member of the Tinley Park Lions Southern University Law Center in Baton meet at Illinois Wesleyan in February 2020. Robin Kuykendall, Class of 1971, Class of 1988, of and has been active since 2002. In 2005, David Wright, Rouge, La., on Jan. 11, 2020. Cynthia also of Jonesboro, Ark., has formed Advocate Monmouth, Ill., has recently published a new Kimberly received the District 1A Lioness of adopted a son, Elijah Zane, on July 29, 2019. Billy “Bill” Heyduck, Class of & Educate LLC, performing consulting, poetry collection, “Local Talent.” He teaches the Year Award. 1953, of Charleston, Ill., has published a advocacy and training for Arkansas parents creative writing and American literature at Lauren Gornall Saeger, Class of young adult novel, “Jacob’s Promise,” which of children ages 3-21 with special needs, Monmouth College, where he is an associate Class of 1987, of 1995, of Goldsboro, N.C., has completed is available on Amazon. and full legal services for special needs Bryan Smith, professor of English. Decatur was appointed town clerk for Long her Doctor of Musical Arts in vocal jazz children in Tennessee and Missouri. Creek Township in September 2019. He performance at the University of Illinois Doris Ryan McElwee, Class of Offices are located in Jonesboro and New 1990 will fill the unexpired term of his father, at Urbana-Champaign. Her dissertation 1953, of Arcadia, Calif., is a psychotherapist Madrid, Mo. She has also been elected to RC Smith, who had held the position for was titled “An Exploration of Vibrato and in private practice. She writes, “I’m still a commissioner’s seat on the Craighead 23 years. Bryan had previously served as Christopher “Chris” Bullock, Performer Perception in Vocal Jazz Singing.” practicing on a self-employed basis and County (Arkansas) Election Commission. Class of 1990, of Mount Zion, Ill., is vice loving it!” town clerk from 1985-1992 and was elected while he was a Millikin student. He is also president and general manager of Capitol Stacey Siwek Sassine, Class of Jon Mitchell, Class of 1971, of executive director/CEO of the Township Radio Group in Springfield, Ill. He oversees 1995, of Cary, Ill., is president and founder Janet Breckenridge James, Class Franklin, Mass., published a new book, Chris Charveron, Class of 1979, Officials of Illinois and has been with the the staff, business, programming, sales and of One Million Monarchs Inc., a nonprofit of 1954, of Sun City Center, Fla., is happily “Now You Can Take Your Clothes Off: of Charleston, S.C., recently celebrated organization since his MU graduation. operations of seven radio stations and websites organization whose mission is to support retired and serving as an emergency medical Vignettes of an American Conductor his third retirement. He retired as a senior in Springfield. teens who are grieving the loss of a parent, responder for the emergency squad. Lost in Translation,” which is available industrial engineer in 1976 and as a Class sibling or close friend. Learn more at www. on Amazon. The book chronicles the Carol Zuegel Longman, lieutenant colonel in the Illinois National of 1987, of Park Ridge, Ill., was promoted Chad Jones, Class of 1992, of Decatur onemillionmonarchs.org. Judith Gilman Ambrose, Class often hilarious exploits, both on and off Guard in 2010. From that point until to national sales manager for HUR USA, is a senior admission counselor at Millikin of 1955, moved to Meadowbrook Christian the podium, of a conductor and college December 31, 2019, he held the position a Finnish company that manufactures University. Ian Toberman, Class of 1995, Retirement Village in Escondido, Calif., professor while practicing his craft abroad. of international armaments cooperation of St. Louis, is assistant director of the last November and is happy to be officially pneumatic (air pressure) strength training specialist and deputy chief in the Office equipment and wellness solutions for senior, Kevin Jett, Class of 1993, of New University Honors Program at Southern retired. Judy Albert Barnes, Class of 1972, of Cooperation within the U.S. Embassy rehabilitation and the inclusive wellness Market, Ind., is director of compliance Illinois University-Edwardsville. He also of Peoria, Ill., has retired. in Berlin, Germany. His 37 years in the and hospice assistant administrator with completed his term as the elected president Class markets. Susan Hudson Montague, Army included 17 years as a traditional PhysioCare Home Healthcare and Hospice of of the university staff senate — the only of 1965, of St. Johnsbury, Vt., is enjoying Robert Guenther, Class of 1973, guardsman, 10 years on active duty and Class of 1988, of Lafayette, Ind. constituency body representing all 1,500 retirement and celebrating the graduation of of Skokie, Ill., was named 2019 Member Craig Davelis, another 10 years as a Department of the Elmhurst, Ill., works as a sports official employees of SIUE. two of her 15 grandchildren. of Note and 2019 Examiner of the Year by Army civilian. for the Illinois High School Association. Dale Cordes, Class of 1994, of Franklin, the Piano Technicians Guild in recognition In 2019, he umpired behind the plate for Tenn., is president of No Scent Pro, LLC, of his recent outstanding service and located in Nolensville, Tenn. dedication. It was presented at the guild’s annual convention in Tucson, Ariz. MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 49 CLASS NOTES CLASS NOTES
Emily Hartz, Class of 1996, of Deanna “Bean” Price Surfus, Katy Folk Sanchez, Class of 2005, of Christopher “Chris” Linden, John Blakeman, Class of 2013/ Lawrence, Kan., is a partner with Sloan, Class of 2001, of Fort Wayne, Ind., Aurora, Ill., welcomed a daughter, Amelia, on Class of 2008, of Crystal Lake, Ill., is MSN 2015, of Taylorville, Ill., is an assistant Eisenbarth, Glassman, McEntire & Jarboe completed her Doctor of Education degree Oct. 4, 2019. founding editor of Smart Living-Suburbs, professor at Illinois State University in LLC, located in Lawrence. She also joined on June 21, 2020. Her study was titled a direct-mail consumer lifestyle magazine Normal, Ill. the adjunct faculty at Washburn Law “Associations Between Developmental Jessica Self, Class of 2005, of Nashville, serving the northwest suburbs of Chicago. School, teaching a course about domestic English Models and Colleges Students’ Tenn., manages a movement and bodywork Last year, he also guided the launch of Brittani White Garner, Class violence. Completion and Persistence.” studio in Nashville. She credits every professor, augmented reality tools that integrate with of 2014, of Dalton City, Ill., is program director, actor, musician, fellow student, sorority the pages of Smart Living and Northwest director with the United States Association Andrea Pelloquin, Class of 1996, Kristin Richards, Class of 2002, sister and audience member she encountered at Quarterly magazines. Chris has been for Small Business and Entrepreneurship. of Exton, Pa., is an event manager at J.W. of Chicago is the director of the Illinois Millikin with giving her the tools she needed to executive editor of Northwest Quarterly She is also president of the Decatur Junior Pepper & Son. She also graduated in May Department of Employment Security. successfully run a studio virtually during such a since 2014 and on staff since 2010. Welfare Association. 2020 from Creighton University in Omaha, difficult time as the COVID-19 pandemic. Neb., with a Doctor of Education degree in Eric Kohn, Class of 2004, of Chicago interdisciplinary leadership. is director of communications at the Acton Class of 2007, Mallory Neese Perrine, Grace DeSant, Class of 2012, of Institute. In that role, he leads a team of 10 of Canton, Ill., is a doctor of veterinary medicine Chicago received the Best Choreographer Class people in the Institute’s communications at Western Illinois Veterinary Clinic in Quincy, James “Travis” Whisman, Award in the Chicago Reader’s Best of of 1999, of Arcola, Ill., is an instructor in and marketing efforts, working to bring Ill. Chicago awards under her burlesque stage Millikin University’s School of Nursing. Acton’s vision of a free and virtuous society name, Foxie la Fleur. Grace’s company, characterized by individual liberty and Class of 2007, of Arlington Alexis Reagan, Crescent Moon Nerdlesque, was a runner-up 2000 sustained by religious principles to a wider Heights, Ill., obtained a Master of Science in for Best Dance Troupe. audience. Nursing degree from Chamberlain University in June 2020. Antione Ford, Class of 2000, of Paige Swaim, Class of 2012, of Phoenix Class of 2005, of Katy, Texas, is an integrated physics and Meredith Ewers, married Jessica Carpenter on June 10, 2019. Chicago married Michael Stenson. Michael chemistry teacher at Paetow High School Paige is a program manager for Resilient is a senior coordinator of operations at Class Class of 2014, of in Katy. He also assists with the boys Maura Spangler Leanna, Health. Paige practices aerial yoga regularly Miranda Lofgren, Starbucks. of 2009, of Coal City, Ill., welcomed a son, Indianapolis married Megan Smith, Class of basketball program. and volunteers to teach yoga to severely James Victor, on Dec. 23, 2019. 2015, on June 6, 2020. Megan is currently a mentally ill adults. Betsy Zacate, Class of 2000, of Jennifer Moery Griffin,Class teacher in the Metropolitan School District Chicago launched a collection of coloring of 2005, of Bolingbrook, Ill., is food safety Susan Neaveill, Class of 2009, of Wayne Township. Miranda and Megan pages, Color to Learn. The first collection and quality director of Hearthside Food of Tolono, Ill., is a preschool teacher at began dating while working as resident of pages, Women Worth Knowing, features Solutions in Downers Grove, Ill. Chesterbrook Academy in Champaign, Ill. assistants and were married by Molly Berry, Millikin’s associate director of alumni 30 influential women, including Ruth 2010 Bader Ginsburg, Rosa Parks and Sally Ride. engagement. The coloring pages are available at www. Roy Riley, Class of 2007, of Charlotte, N.C., betsycarina.com. is a physical education teacher who has competed Starla Street, Class of 2010, of Courtney Gerk Falasz, Class of in the Ironman Triathlon World Championship, Decatur is a volunteer firefighter/EMT 2015, and Adam Falasz, Class of 2016, were Michael Moushon, Class of 2001, won a World Series of Poker Championship, and with Harristown Fire Protection District married March 14, 2020 — the day before of Orlando, Fla., is business development has been ranked in the top 50 on Major League in Harristown, Ill. She is celebrating 10 quarantine began. Courtney works in the center director for University Hyundai, Eating’s competitive eating list. He and his wife, years as a Decatur police auxiliary officer, neonatal intensive care unit at St. Vincent Nissan and Genesis in Orlando. Mekenzie, a four-time CrossFit Games athlete, currently serving as a lieutenant with the Women’s Hospital. Adam graduated with welcomed their first child, Race Lewis, on a Doctorate of Medicine in dentistry from unit. Lauren Taylor, Class of 2012, of May 16, 2020. Southern Illinois University School of Caylee French Noggle, Class of Marietta, Ga., married Preston Sullivan Dental Medicine on June 6, 2020. Courtney 2001, of Atlanta was appointed Georgia on June 14, 2020. Due to COVID-19 Class of 2008, and Adam live in Fishers, Ind. Governor Brian Kemp’s interim chief of Liz Ciaccio Doughty, restrictions, they livestreamed their ceremony Class of 2005, of and Chris Doughty, Class of 2010, of Durham, staff on Sept. 17, 2020, the first woman to Angela Kepley, to family and friends. They plan on Brookfield, Ill., married Paul Meiste on July N.C., welcomed a daughter, Norah Christine, hold the role. She and her husband, Tom, celebrating later with all of their guests. live in Atlanta with their four-year-old son. 6, 2019. Paul is the band director at Lyons on Jan. 4, 2020. Liz is a senior HR manager Township High School. for Advance Auto Parts. Chris is a tax manager at KPMG. Norah joins her brother, Benjamin Joseph.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 51 CLASS NOTES MEMORIALS
Karen “Lyn” Sly, Class of 2016, of Kara Niles Torres, Class of 2018, of Decatur is an adjunct faculty member in Springfield, Ill., is an English teacher with Millikin University’s School of Music. Ball Chatham School District in Chatham, TRUSTEE EMERITUS Ill. Kiersten White, Class of 2016, MEMORIALS of White Sulphur Springs, W.V., is the Sydney McReynolds, Class of education director at Greenbrier Valley 2019, of Newton, Ill., is a communications Theatre in Lewisburg, W.V. As education specialist in the Marketing and Media director with the state professional theatre, Relations Department at Millikin Gary Hein she teaches K-12 classes in an after-school University. of Decatur, Feb. 2, 2020. He served facility and in the public school system. She on Millikin’s Board of Trustees from also works with a 10-minute play festival Gabriel Gil Olavarrieta, Class 1995-97. and directs a spring musical for grades of 2019, of Caracas, Venezuela, is a data 6-12, as well as a TYA (theatre for young management specialist in the Information audiences) piece featuring high school and Technology Department at Millikin college students. University. Brittany Mytnik, Class of 2015, FACULTY & STAFF Class of 2020 of Arlington, Mass., and her partner, Ben Frank “Carson” Jones, 2017, of Seattle is training for his first half Nicolaysen, proposed to each other atop a MEMORIALS marathon. hill with a scenic view of Boston. They both Colin Jamison, Class of 2020, of said yes. Bloomingdale, Ill., is a graduate assistant McKenzie Sauer, Class of 2017, in the Marketing and Media Relations of Coralville, Iowa, is the coordinator of Alexis Rogers, Class of 2015, of Department at Millikin University. fraternity and sorority life programs at the Stanley Hall Elmer Hawkins Phyllis Jacobs Tuscola, Ill., is a regional marketing of Decatur, June 14, 2020. Stanley served of Decatur, Sept. 1, 2020. Elmer taught of Sugar Grove, Ill., Jan. 10, 2020. She was University of Iowa in Iowa City. strategist at Heartland Dental in Aubrey Magro, Class of 2020, Millikin for more than 25 years, retiring accounting and business law at Millikin a faculty member in Millikin University’s Effingham, Ill. of Rochester, Ill., is a graduate assistant as the associate physical plant director. University from 1974 to 1995. School of Nursing from 1984 to 1988. Michael Sheldon, Class of 2017, in the Marketing and Media Relations of Indianapolis was featured on the Netflix Vicky Vargas, Class of 2015, married Department at Millikin University. singing competition, “Sing On!” Mark Weber on July 8, 2017. Vicky recently published a children’s picture book, “Lazlo Hailey Stokes, Class of 2020, of Class of 2017/ Learns Recorder,” an interactive musical Cole Sondgeroth, Huntley, Ill., is currently serving in the MBA 2019, of El Paso, Ill., is head men’s tale that teaches the basics of the recorder. United States Army. Hailey began basic and women’s golf coach at Loras College in In February 2020, the book was listed training in Oklahoma in October and will ALUMNI Dubuque, Iowa. on Amazon as the No. 1 new release in then train to pursue a career in Patriot fire- children’s music books. Vicky and Mark live control systems. MEMORIALS Class of 2017, in Gurnee, Ill. Anastasia Tomanek, of Madison, Wis., is choral director with Lindsey Keathley DeBrun, Brodhead School District in Brodhead, Wis. Eileen Ritchie Betty Birmingham Ruth Sutton Scott, Barbara “BJ” Hildebrand Class of 2016, of Newport News, Va., is a Brereton, Class of Moorehead, Class of Class of 1944, of Markwitz, Class of 1947, of Class of 2018, of 1939, of Salt Lake City, 1942, of Batavia, Ill., Baldwin City, Kan., Franklin, Tenn., bookkeeper with ProAdvisor CPA of San Justin DeBo, Normal, Ill., is an adjunct faculty member Feb. 9, 2020. Feb. 8, 2020. May 7, 2020. Sept. 3, 2020. Jose, Calif. Lindsey credits her education at in the Tabor School of Business at Millikin Millikin with enabling her to find a job that Roberta Hamman Harriet McDonald Verena Shively Betty Huff Waggoner, University. made it possible for her to return to work Pilcher, Class of 1941, Douglass, Class of Clement, Class of Class of 1947, of Decatur, after battling cancer. of Decatur, 1943, of Decatur, 1945, of Merritt Island, March 5, 2020. Feb. 23, 2020. May 17, 2020. Fla., Dec. 19, 2018. CLASS NOTES Virginia Torreyson SUBMITTED FEB. 1, Charles W. Dunn, Marguerite “Marge” Mary Ferguson File, Gardner, Class of 1948, of Class of 1942, of New Howell Henly, Class Class of 1946, of Mascoutah, Ill., formerly 2020-SEPT. 30, 2020 York City, Feb. 1, 2020. of 1944, of Columbus, Pocahontas, Ill., of Belleville, Ill., and Ga., May 28, 2020. July 27, 2020. Champaign, Ill., Share your news online at July 20, 2020. millikin.edu/alumni.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 53 ALUMNI MEMORIALS ALUMNI MEMORIALS
Eva Henson Rosa Galloway Robert “Tony” Edwin Belcher, Class of Luckenbill, Class Stevens, Class of 1957, Chamblin, Class of 1961, of Fort Mill, S.C., ALUMNI of 1955, of Decatur, of Pawnee, Ill., 1960, of Lexington, March 16, 2020. formerly of Cullman, April 8, 2020. Ky., Sept. 20, 2020. MEMORIALS Ala., Aug. 20, 2020. Barbara Borders Boston, David “Dave” Allen, Robert “Bob” Flamm, Class of 1961, of Marion “Dean” Class of 1958, of Pana, Class of 1960, of Blue Springfield, Ill., Landgrebe, Class of Ill., April 15, 2020. Mound, Ill., Aug. 13, 2020. The Jane Jahn, Class of Sarah “Martha” Soffas Joyce Scholes Ballion, Mary Lou Logan 1955, of Warrensburg, July 29, 2020. family requests that 1948, of Palos Heights, Chiligiris, Class of Class of 1952, of Mount BesGrove, Class of Mo., Aug. 6, 2020. Richard “Dick” Jones, memorial gifts be Ill., March 18, 2019. 1950, of Decatur, Auburn, Ill., 1953, of Fairbury, Ill., Class of 1958, of Leon Flitz, Class of made to Millikin April 6, 2020. Feb. 19, 2020. Feb. 15, 2020. Rita Rambo Wack, Decatur, May 15, 2020. 1960, of Decatur, Rose Buchmann University, Alumni and Class of 1955, of May 7, 2020. Development Office, Roach Miller, Class of Joan Frey, Class of Richard Corley, Class of Dorothy Gore, Class of Thomas “Tom” Ross, Coronado, Calif., 1184 W. Main St., 1948, of Glen Carbon, 1950, of Quincy, Ill., 1952, of Columbia, S.C., 1953, of Morris, Ill., Class of 1958, of William “Will” Feb. 28, 2020. Decatur, IL 62522. Ill., June 10, 2020. Sept. 15, 2020. Sept. 8, 2020. June 25, 2020. Collinsville, Ill., Leyerle, Class of 1960, James Witzeman, March 24, 2020. of Indian Land, S.C., Jack Atchison, Class of Carolyn Hendrix Hart, Maryann Armstrong Carolyn White Dawn Davie Class of 1955, of formerly of Mount Goodenough, Class of 1949, of Forsyth, Ill., Class of 1950, of Hansen, Class of 1952, Millhorn, Class of Ronald Wisher, Class The Villages, Fla., Morris, N.Y., 1961, of Forest, Va., Jan. 12, 2015. Minneapolis, of Mount Pleasant, S.C., 1953, of Bettendorf, of 1958, of Decatur, July 24, 2020. June 27, 2020. May 29, 2020. April 29, 2020. Feb. 11, 2020. Iowa, July 15, 2020. April 20, 2020. He was George Gillmore, Class Earl Anderson, inducted into Millikin Meredith Griffin of 1949, of Little Rock, Elizabeth “Beth” Lysbeth Ferguson Carl Daniels, Class of Howard Shulke, Class of Class of 1956, of University’s Athletic McMinn, Class of Ark., Sept. 19, 2020. Hamblen McShane, Kelly, Class of 1952, of 1954, of Brighton, Ill., 1961, of Decatur, Bloomington, Ill., Hall of Fame in 1995. 1960, of Breese, Ill., Class of 1950, of Janesville, Wis., May 22, 2020. May 26, 2020. Sally Howard, Class April 12, 2020. formerly of Decatur, Kalamazoo, Mich., Jan. 22, 2020. Robert “Bob” Young, of 1949, of Traverse James Dodson, Class of Feb. 9, 2020. The Esther Lange Carlson, April 15, 2020. John Bensi, Class of Class of 1958, of City, Mich., formerly Robert “Bob” Kurek, 1954, of Wheaton, Ill., family requests that Class of 1962, of Forsyth, 1956, of Springfield, Pinehurst, N.C., of Flint, Mich., and John Roesler, Class of Class of 1952, of March 1, 2020. memorial gifts be made Ill., Sept. 28, 2020. Ill., Feb. 7, 2020. Feb. 20, 2020. Burton, Mich., 1950, of Peoria, Ill., Carmel, Ind., to the Millikin chapter Virginia “Ginger” of Delta Delta Delta Joseph Briscuso, Class of March 7, 2020. Feb. 21, 2020. He and Feb. 19, 2020. Robert Harland, Class Jo Ann McDonald Wayne Gehrig, Class sorority, c/o Millikin 1963, of Towson, Md., his wife, Mollie Bence of 1956, of Springfield, Boll, Class of 1959, of Russell Mueller, Class Phyllis Green McAfee, of 1954, of Alhambra, University, Alumni and March 1, 2020. Roesler, also Class of Ill., formerly of Bayfield, Wis., of 1949, of Overland Class of 1952, of Walnut Ill., March 12, 2020. Development Office, 1950, were married 69 Canton, Ill., July 2, 2019. Nancy Stewart Park, Kan., years. Creek, Calif., 1184 W. Main St., Wilma Richards Aug. 7, 2020. Hindman, Class of 1963, July 20, 2020. March 3, 2020. William “Bill” Kistler, Decatur, IL 62522. Miller, Class of 1954, of Berea, Ky., Kenneth Schmidt, Carolyn Howden Class of 1959, of Marjorie Otero-Clark, Gloria Miner, Class of of Decatur, Carol Booker Serre, June 11, 2020. Class of 1950, of Mueller, Class of 1956, Forsyth, Ill., Class of 1949, of 1952, of Findlay, Ill., May 25, 2020. Class of 1960, of Florissant, Mo., of South Bend, Ind., April 20, 2020. Betty Keim Isham, Class Fenton, Mich., May 10, 2020. June 16, 2020. Hixson, Tenn., Janet Mueller Pogue, March 20, 2020. of 1963, of Monohans, May 6, 2020. Ross Lake, Class April 4, 2020. Morrison “Nolan” Class of 1954, of Texas, formerly of Dorothy Sorrells Edward LeFevre, Class of 1959, of Bonita Warren Reckmeyer, Smith, Class of 1952, of Bettendorf, Iowa, Ronald Shirk, Class of Lincoln, Ill., Betzold, Class of 1951, of 1957, of Peoria, Springs, Fla., June Class of 1949, of Jacksonville, Ill., Dec. 31, 2018. 1960, of Bloomington, March 8, 2020. of Nokomis, Ill., Ill., May 4, 2020. He 25, 2020. He was the Mount Morris, Ill., Aug. 25, 2020. Ill., June 27, 2020. July 16, 2020. was the recipient of recipient of Millikin’s Ronald “Coach” James, March 26, 2020. William “Bill” Shaffer, Millikin University’s Merit Award in 1990. Class of 1963, of Philip Durland, Class Betty Clydesdale Class of 1954, of Bonny Andrewson, Jay Trimmer, Class of Wittmann, Class of Round Rock, Texas, Loyalty Award in 1983. Class of 1961, of Decatur, March 20, 2020. of 1951, of Urbana, Ill., Donald “Don” Allen, 1949, of La Salle, Ill., 1952, of Rice Lake, Aug. 11, 2020. Peoria, Ill., formerly of July 28, 2020. Joanne Lathrop Class of 1960, of John Russo, Class of July 18, 2020. Wis., May 18, 2020. Decatur, Provines, Class of 1957, Columbia, S.C., 1963, of Albuquerque, Philip McFadden, Joe Williams Jr., June 17, 2020. of Mountain View, June 20, 2020. N.M., June 5, 2020. Daniel Banner, Class Class of 1951, of Harold Bersin, Class of Class of 1954, of Calif., Feb. 4, 2020. of 1950, of Quincy, Ill., Springfield, Ill., 1953, of Carson City, Albuquerque, N.M., formerly of Chicago, April 13, 2020. Nev., June 24, 2019. June 14, 2020. March 13, 2020.
MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 55 ALUMNI MEMORIALS
Evelyn Roasch Frederick Clark, Class Linda Shroyer, Class of Fred Krows, Class of Donna “Libby” Caroline Edwards Ryan Williams, Class Barney, Class of 1964, of 1966, of Decatur, 1969, of Decatur, 1972, of Decatur, Higgins, Class of 1976, Higgins, Class of 1983, of 2006, of Lincoln, Ill., of Naperville, Ill., Sept. 19, 2020. Feb. 21, 2020. May 19, 2020. He was of Mount Zion, Ill., of Lincoln, Ill., Aug. 13, 2020. formerly of Cicero, Ill., a recipient of Millikin’s May 8, 2020. June 3, 2020. and Downers Grove, Sarah Hitzemann Anna Mullen Fisher, Young Alumnus Matthew Shrum, Class Ill., April 20, 2020. Gibbs, Class of 1966, Class of 1970, of Award in 1983. Leo Quigg Jr., Class of Lindsay Wright, Class of 2011, of Oswego, of Gays Mills, Wis., Indianapolis, The family requests 1976, of Decatur, of 1983, of Morton, Ill., Ill., Sept. 6, 2020. Peter Daugherty, Class Aug. 25, 2020. Jan. 14, 2020. that memorials be July 4, 2020. March 1, 2020. Daniel Evans, Class of of 1964, of Clinton, Ill., sent to Millikin William “Bill” Little, Ann Lindvahl, Class of Paul Rosteck Jr., Class Carla Clark, Class of 2015, of Springfield, Aug. 11, 2020. University, Alumni and Class of 1966, Decatur, 1970, of Danville, Ill., of 1976, of Nineveh, 1986, of Decatur, Ill., May 2, 2020. Development Office, Julia Edwards Sanks, July 4, 2020. formerly of Taylorville, Ind., June 13, 2020. Dec. 5, 2018. 1184 W. Main St., Class of 1964, of Ill., and Sun City, He was a recipient of Brandon Tucker, Class Decatur, IL 62522. Athens, Ga., John Snow, Class of Ariz., July 2, 2020. Millikin University’s Tammie Spires Buzan, of 2019, of Decatur, 1966, of Macon, Ill., Class of 1987, of May 11, 2020. Feb. 11, 2020. Mary “Clare” Young, Merit-Loyalty Award Aug. 15, 2020. Mary Hancock Wirch, Decatur, June 4, 2020. Class of 1972, of in 2005. Merrianne Curtis Class of 1970, of Morgan Ryder, Class Haddon Township, Baldner, Class of 1965, John Keith, Class of Pleasant Prairie, Wis., Thomas Ginter, Class Mark Dowell, Class of of 2022, of Gridley, Ill., N.J., June 4, 2020. of Greenville, Mich., 1967, of Wilmington, Feb. 23, 2020. of 1979, of Corpus 1993, of Lakemoor, Ill., Aug. 1, 2020. Morgan N.C., June 27, 2020. May 10, 2020. was set to transfer to Feb. 15, 2020. Timothy “Tim” Faster, Christi, Texas, Elmer Wortham, Millikin University as Class of 1974, of Aug. 30, 2019. Florence Bolin, Class Alma Welch Schueler, Class of 1970, of Janice Earl, Class of a junior in the fall of Flossmoor, Ill., of 1965, of Mahomet, Class of 1967, of Edwardsville, Ill., Leonard “Jack” Powell 1997, of Forsyth, Ill., 2020. July 7, 2020. Ill., formerly of Decatur, July 16, 2020. formerly of Granite Jr., Class of 1979, of St. Aug. 26, 2020. Christian Reynolds, Decatur, City, Ill., March 29, Kurt Mitchell, Class Louis, Nov. 1, 2019. Steven L. Smith, Angela Johnson Class of 2024, of June 20, 2020. 2020. of 1974, of Evergreen Class of 1967, of St. Lori Andrick Smith, Summers, Class of Clinton, Ill., Sept. Park, Ill., July 1, 2020. John Ott, Class of Charles, Ill., formerly Roger Sampson, Class Class of 1980, of 1998, of Indianapolis, 19, 2020. Christian of Wheaton, Ill., Feb. April 27, 2020. 1965, of Naperville, Ill., of 1971, of Reed City, Loren “Neil” Sallee, Mount Zion, Ill., had planned to begin May 14, 2020. 11, 2020. Mich., June 3, 2020. Sept. 21, 2020. instruction at Millikin Class of 1974, of Sylvia Jackson- Bloomington, Ill., University in the fall Stuart Sellers, Class of Dennis Winkler, Class Arthur “Art” Adler, Michael “Mike” Bowman, Class of May 20, 2020. of 2020. 1965, of Decatur, of 1967, of Morton, Ill., Class of 1972, of Ludwig, Class of 1982, 2001, of Decatur, June 1, 2020. He was Feb. 8, 2020. June 22, 2020. The Decatur, Patricia Foltz, Class of of Davie, Fla., family requests that inducted into Millikin Aug. 15, 2020. March 16, 2020. 1975, of Fairbury, Ill., Heather Phares memorial gifts be University’s Athletic March 25, 2020. Mundhenke, Class of made to Millikin Hall of Fame in 1999. James “Goody” Bonnie Ruecker, Class 2002, of Cantrall, Ill., University, Alumni and Gudeman, Class of Rosalie “Rose” Fears of 1982, of Decatur, Becky Cochennour formerly of Taylorville, Development Office, 1972, of Leesburg, Fla., Bockmann, Class of March 18, 2020. Baker, Class of 1968, of Ill., April 26, 2020. 1184 W. Main St., Feb. 3, 2020. 1976, of Lee, Mass., Decatur, May 20, 2020. Christine Guerrero Decatur, IL 62522. March 30, 2020. Cole, Class of 1983, Kristin Halverson, Mary Cole Chuzi, Class of 2006, of Donna Hill Steffan, of Homewood, Ill., Class of 1968, of Franksville, Wis., July Class of 1965, of formerly of Steger, Ill., Boynton Beach, Fla., 31, 2020. Johnson Creek, Wis., and Chicago Heights, Sept. 22, 2020. formerly of Lake Mills, Ill., Feb. 4, 2020. Wis., March 24, 2020. MEMORIALS SUBMITTED FEB. 1, 2020-SEPT. 30, 2020
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MILLIKIN MAGAZINE FALL 2020 57