THE OFFICIAL ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY >> FALL - WINTER 2012

Homecoming 2012 Oh, the Places You'll Go From NSU Message from the President Hello Alumni: I hope you can remember from Arrow, and Muskogee. Additionally, we your experiences at Northeastern State continue in the process to construct University how exciting the fall semester $20 million in replacement student is. This is the time of year when we say housing. As you visit the campus, be sure welcome to a number of students from to drive down Crafton and see the open across the state and region who are new space created by the demolition of the to our campus and we welcome back Cedar Craft Apartments. The Cedar Craft those returning students. Excitement fills space will become the construction staging the air as we are reminded of the great area for a student housing project that will potential that the new class of freshmen be located where Wyly Hall is currently RiverHawks brings to us. It is the human located. Our plans are to complete the potential of our students that motivates and required approval processes and begin encourages our faculty and staff to look construction of the apartment style, semi- forward to the new year. In some magical suite apartments in May 2013. way, we are united in a common purpose As you make plans to return to to empower these young people to be the NSU during Homecoming on October next generation of leaders. 5 and 6, 2012, I know you will want The beginning of the new year is also to tour the campus and see firsthand exciting due to a number of construction and renovation projects that are underway the progress being made. This year’s at NSU. The $14.4 million Multipurpose Homecoming theme of “Oh The Places Event Center located at Grand and You Can Go From NSU” reminds all of North Avenue is quickly changing the us of the common path that unites each north gateway to the Tahlequah campus. graduating class. Although we came from This new venue will provide numerous many locations and from a variety of opportunities for our men’s and women’s backgrounds, we are tied together because teams as we transition to the of love and appreciation for Northeastern MIAA Conference and will allow us to State University. You can come home host concerts, lectures and events that again. I hope that you will join Penny and support the public good for years to come. me as we celebrate all that is good at NSU. In addition, we are preparing for a Sincerely, $5 million expansion of the Fitness Center, upgrades to the John Vaughn Library, and preparing for a long range master plan of our campuses in Tahlequah, Broken Dr. Steve Turner, President

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS EX OFFICIO PRESIDENT / Becky Gore, ’91 NSU President / Dr. Steve Turner VICE PRESIDENT / Stephen Highers ’05 Interim Executive Director of university relations / Jerry Cook '72 & '06 Secretary / Tina Frazier ’03 & ‘04 Director of DEVELOPMENT / Peggy Glenn ’90 Director of ALUMNI SERVICES / Daniel Johnson ’91 Members of the Board Barbara Abercrombie '93 Rachel Farinelli '97 & '06 Justin Lindsey ’92 & '95 Michael Turner '91 & '98 Rachel Anderson Hill '02 & '03 Harlan Guthrie '95 David Rader '80 Bill White '76 Carol Ann (Shackelford) Barkley '78 Gilbert Hall '81 Russ Riff '03 Lewis Wilson '72 Ron Evans '60 & '64 Maci (Hamilton) Jessie '01 Andrea Tucker '05 & '09

IMPRINTS >> 2 THE OFFICIAL ALUMNI MAGAZINE OF NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY FALL - WINTER 2012

Features >>

UNDER CONSTRUCTION 4

MAKING A SPLASH IN MIAA 28

Departments >>

Alumni News 7

Tarver awarded Pulitzer Calhoun recognized by Head Start Legacy scholarships presented

SnapSHots 8

Northeastern News 10

Danish students visit NSU for language, Cherokee studies Chinese scholars enrich, enjoy NSU experience Art inspired by education shines at NSUBA NSUOCO faculty, residents volunteer at Special Olympics Five NSU faculty study abroad

ALUMNI HONOREES 14

HOMECOMING SCHEDULE 20

CLASS ACTS 24

ATHLETICS 30

NSU Golf Classic raise $40k for RiverHawk athletics Gipson adds three to 2012-13 class NSU RiverHawks look to make a splash in MIAA conference in 2012. Former RiverHawk returns as offensive coordinator

IMPRINTS MAGAZINE Produced by the Northeastern State University Office of Communications & Marketing

DIRECTOR / Tom Smith ASSISTANT DIRECTOR / Jennifer Zehnder EDITORIAL ASSISTANT / Tina Frazier ’03 & ‘04 PHOTOGRAPHY / Pete Henshaw ’12, Eric Davis ’09 & '12, ON THE COVER >> Natalie Sullivan '12, Carrie Moore '13 Join the Northeastern community for Homecoming CONTRIBUTORS / D. Sean Rowley ’92, Eric Covey ’10, 2012--Oh the Places You'll Go from NSU, Oct. 5-6. LAYOUT & DESIGN / Joshua Seymour ’08, Elizabeth Peterson ‘07 Photo by Pete Henshaw

This publication was printed by Just Us Printers, Inc. and issued by Northeastern State University as authorized by House Bill 1714. 2,000 copies were printed; the total cost was $2321. This institution, in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendment Act of 1972, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, dis- ability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. IMPRINTS >> 3 Construction and renderings for the Market Cafe.

Under Construction NSU embarks on construction projects

During the summer, Northeastern Market Cafe currently offers six entree from Rousey Field and northeast of the State University continued to engage venues, as well as a salad bar, an ice cream Leoser Complex. The lot south of Leoser in a series of construction projects to station, a cereal stand, a dessert counter, a will receive some asphalt patching and be enhance campus life, including a cafeteria fruit stand and the beverage station. Food reconfigured to permit 40 new parking remodeling, renovations to the Natural service at NSU is provided by Sodexo. spaces. Science Research Facility, Multipurpose The construction will continue into The 40,000 square-foot Crafton Event Center and construction of parking the fall 2012 semester, with completion lot occupies an area west of NSU’s lots. expected in late October or early intramural fields. The 16,000 square- Market Cafe. Renovations of November. foot northeast Leoser lot replaces an area the Market Cafe dining venue in the Parking lots. New parking lots are of small lawns, sidewalks and limited University Center are under way. The being built north of Crafton Street across parking west of Rousey Field.

IMPRINTS >> 4 Cedar Craft Apartment demolition (left, bottom) Multipurpose Event Center (right, top and bottom)

The northeast Leoser construction around a conference room and office The building will house more than will create an additional 30 parking spaces spaces have been removed to produce a 78,000 square feet. The floor plan calls and the Crafton lot will add another large, open laboratory space. for 69 rooms including six locker rooms. 100. The Crafton parking area will also Event Center. Perhaps the largest Amenities will also include a video include four light poles for security and construction effort is the $14.4 million screening room, an athletics shop, a two sidewalks. Multipurpose Event Center. suite of offices for coaches and staff, Science facilities. Renovations The still-unnamed facility will stand concession areas, laundry facilities, a of NSU’s Natural Sciences Research on the northwest corner of North Street ticket office and a room for the athletic Facility, formerly known as the OSBI and North Grand Avenue between the and alumni associations. building, have been completed. NSU College of Optometry Permanent seating capacity will be The structure, about 2,400 square and Doc Wadley Stadium. about 3,000. However, configurations feet, was converted into lab research space Anticipated opening date of the using floor and mezzanine space will for faculty and students. Multipurpose Event Center is August 1, permit the seating of additional people. The renovation repaired structural 2013. The architect of record is Crafton For information about construction damage, expanded laboratory space and Tull and the contractor is Nabholz projects at NSU visit the Captial Projects updated benches and cabinetry. The walls Construction Inc. page at www.nsuok.edu/capitolprojects.

IMPRINTS >> 5 A l um

Dear NSU Alumni & Friends, ni Oh the places you’ve gone from grand ol’ N-S-U. From hither to thither. Well beyond Kalamazoo. You’ve been out teaching, outreaching N and making a dollar. In business, in research You’ve taken life by the collar. ews Now it’s Homecoming time. Yes, it’s time to come back. Don your green and your white. Maybe even a touch of…black? We have golfing and street parties bubbly bingo with fun hats. “And a parade?” you ask. There’ll be two. How ‘bout that! Food and more food. It’s here and it’s there. In the Ballroom, at the Lot. It’ll be everywhere. Just try to leave hungry. Give it your best shot. See the Homecoming queen with a king at her side. Our distinguished alumni we’ll honor with great pride. It happens at the half of the game when we do battle with Griffons from MO Western, the mythical beasts we’ll rattle. We’re in uncharted conference lands, the M-I-double A. As Redmen or RiverHawk, come watch NSU take the day. The Alumni Association is your link to the Green & White Network. Join! Won’t you join? For hardly a coin? You can and you should. It’s for the green and white good. Show your pride, jump for joy for your fine alma mater. Things are moving swift like a raft in the Illinois’ white water. Know that you’ll find us humming that familiar fight song tune. If we can’t talk to you now, we hope to… See you soon! Daniel Johnson '91

Director of Alumni Services

IMPRINTS >> 6 Alumni News

Tarver awarded Pulitzer Taylor named chief Collaboration, one of Northeastern Philadelphia. He currently serves as State University’s core values, rings an adjunct instructor of photography information officer at NSU true as a fellow alum brings home the for Swarthmore College. Kevin Taylor has been named the institution's highest prize in journalism. director of information technology and chief Born and raised in Fort Gibson, Tarver information officer effective July 1. Ron Tarver, NSU graduate class of graduated from NSU and recalls fond Taylor has served as director of enterprise 1979, along with colleagues from The moments he spent there. systems and associate CIO. He has worked Philadelphia Inquirer, was recently Tarver became an intern his senior for NSU since 1998, serving in technical and awarded the Pulitzer Prize for public nontechnical roles including software develop- year at the Muskogee Phoenix, service for the published works titled, ment, system and database administration, where he soon acquired a position “Assault on Learning.” process improvement and project management. after graduating from NSU. A few "I will oversee NSU’s Information Technology The series, comprised of compelling years later, working for several news Services and provide leadership to support the stories, photographs and videos, publications, Tarver came to The technology needs of students, faculty and staff circled on the topic of school violence Philadelphia Inquirer in 1983. across the university," Taylor said. in Philadelphia’s public school system. The appointment was announced June 26 by Tarver served as the principal Tarver currently resides in Elkins Park, Pa. just outside Philadelphia in David Koehn, vice president for business and photographer for the series, which finance. ran last spring. a 140 year-old farmhouse that he said loves but constantly demands loving While director of enterprise systems, Taylor was an active member of NSU's Banner Imple- “This is like winning the Academy back. Tarver’s wife, Kristin Winch, is Awards or the Super Bowl for mentation Leadership Team. He played an the assistant director of Development integral role in the enhancement of academic journalism,” said Tarver. “But, you of Libraries at the University of and administrative technologies through the can’t let this kind of stuff go to your Pennsylvania. They have three integration of third party systems. Banner is an head.” children, Michaela who is finishing administrative software application developed her first year at Fordham University for higher education institutions. It maintains With a successful art gallery in student, alumni, financial and personnel data. Philadelphia, Tarver has recently in New York City, Riley who is also established a new organization finishing her first year at American Taylor holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from NSU and will receive his master’s called "Photo Ops," which University, Washington, D.C., and Wes degree in business administration from NSU in provides nonprofit photography who is a rising junior at Cheltehham spring 2013. assistance for community events in High school. NSU alumna Calhoun NSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION recognized by Head Start AWARDS LEGACY Through her work, NSU alumna Caren Calhoun is helping hundreds of Tulsa children and their families SCHOLARSHIPS YOUR LINK TO THE GREEN & WHITE NETWORK receive early childhood education and care through Tulsa Educare, Inc. Calhoun, the executive director of Tulsa Educare, was among 11 people recognized at the White House on June 18 for their efforts to fulfill the mission of the federal Head Start Program. They were acknowl- edged as part of President Obama's "Champions of Change" program, which identifies individuals working to strengthen their communities. A 28-year veteran of early childhood education administration, Calhoun earned her master's degree in early childhood education from NSU in December Josh Fleak Collin Forehand Stephen Morrison 2006. She also holds a bachelor's degree in busi- ness administration. She has served as director for a Three freshmen at Northeastern State University are recipients of the child care center and been senior level manager of a 2012-13 Legacy Scholarships, awarded through the Alumni Association. Receiving scholarships for $1,500 are Stephen Morrison of Fort Gibson, Joshua multisite not-for-profit Head Start program serving Fleak of Tulsa, and Colin Forehand of Claremore. The scholarship is awarded more than 1,800 children. to incoming freshmen with family who attended NSU in the past. Applications As Tulsa Educare's executive director, Calhoun are reviewed by a committee drawn from the Alumni Association's board of directors. The committee determines the number of scholarships, the amounts oversees two early childhood education centers and to award, and the recipients. will manage a third which opens in the fall. The three centers will serve more than 500 children.

IMPRINTS >> 7 >> SNAPSHOTS

If you have photos you would like to submit, contact the Office of Alumni Services at 918-458-2143, email [email protected], or mail to 812 N. Cedar Ave.,Tahlequah, OK 74464.

RiverHawk host family Brian, '04 & '11 Lara '06 & '09 and son Blake Searcy meet their students, Elizabeth Cudjoe & Rocky Herresra.

Magic Tee Golf Classic: Jennifer (Black) Hinkle (‘96), Joey Hinkle (’96), Scott Weeks (’96) and Colleen Weeks Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Induction: Gregg ’91 and kids. and Julie ’91 Koehn

Homecoming Spirit: Scott Weeks Oklahoma Governor Mary ’96 and 2012 Outstanding Young Fallin and Pete Henshaw Alumnus Michael Kayser ’96 '12 at the Broken Arrow Community Chamber $10k scholarship check presentation held Aug. 17 at NSUBA.

Tom Burns '58 is featured on a granite etching at the Redmen Heritage Wall

IMPRINTS >> 8 On top of Colorado: Daniel Johnson ’91 and daughter Camryn

NSU President Steve Tuner and former presidents Roger Webb and Don Betz join in the Homecoming 2012 spirit.

Regional University System of Oklahoma Regent Jan Gordon and artist Katie Pernu pose in front of Pernu's stained glass "The Lighting of a Fire" at NSUBA

Carol Ann (Shackelford) Barkley '78 and Clyde Barkely '77 posing with Homecoming hat in the Inola Longhorns Gymnasium

RiverHawk Host family and Alumni Association Members Mark and Bonnie Giese meet students Darrin Winston and Ashdon Perry.

IMPRINTS >> 9 N ortheastern

NSU President Steve Turner, Regional University System of Oklahoma Regent Jan Gordon, Governor Mary Fallin, Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education Chancellor Glen D. Johnson, Broken Arrow Community Foundation Chairman Randy Swearengin and RUSO Regent Jeff Dunn gathered at NSU-Broken Arrow Aug. 17 for the announcement of a $10,000 pledge by the Broken Arrow Community Foundation, Inc. toward scholarships for adult students returning to college. Northeastern State University to benefit from $10K Broken Arrow Community Foundation commitment The path to completing a college complete their unfinished degree to assist with tuition, fees, books and education can be littered with life’s programs. It also serves as a other educational costs. interruptions. Family obligations, challenge for other community military service, economic restraints, foundations across Oklahoma to Potential scholarship recipients will be job conflicts and other circumstances support the initiative by making identified with NSUBA staff assistance can complicate or postpone the similar or larger pledges. and recommended to the Broken Arrow Community Foundation. The journey for some. Created and administered by BACF, adult learners will be encouraged to N On Aug. 17 officials from Oklahoma, the gift supports Governor Fallin’s complete their degree studies at NSU. Broken Arrow and Northeastern Complete College America (CCA) State University joined Gov. Mary Program and parallels Oklahoma The National Governor’s Association Fallin at NSU-Broken Arrow for the State Regents for Higher Education's (NGA) adopted the measures being ews announcement of a $10,000 Reach Higher initiatives which work advocated by CCA in their initiative pledge by the Broken Arrow to increase the number of degree known as Complete to Compete. Community Foundation, Inc. toward earners in Governor Mary Fallin embraced that scholarships for adult students the state. initiative for Oklahoma and has been returning to college. According to Randy Swearengin, proposing support for the idea. The This money is designed to ease the BACF chairman, scholarships will be $10,000 Broken Arrow commitment financial burden for adult learners awarded to adult learners who live in is believed to be the first such who want to return to college and the Broken Arrow metropolitan area announcement of public support. Northeastern ROTC cadet receives Oklahoma Star of Valor Medal For displaying valor in a non-combat a vehicle veered into a median, traveled situation, a Northeastern State down an embankment and struck a line University ROTC cadet was awarded the of trees. Dyer approached the burning Oklahoma Star of Valor at Camp Gruber vehicle and found the driver partially out Maneuver Training Center near Braggs. of the vehicle. He carried her from the immediate danger, assessed her injuries– Sgt. Brandon Dyer received the which included a broken leg–and used Oklahoma Star of Valor during a a blanket provided by another driver to ceremony in June. He was nominated pull her up the embankment to safety. for the honor by Major Jason Junkens, The woman Dyer carried from the former director of NSU ROTC. vehicle is today the mother of a On Nov. 5, 2010, Dyer witnessed a 6-month-old daughter. She also has traffic accident on Interstate 40 when another daughter, age 6.

IMPRINTS >> 10 Northeastern News NSU hosts Danish students for language, Cherokee studies Northeastern State University hosted a group of students visiting from Denmark to hone their English reading and writing comprehension and to take Cherokee language and cultural classes. The students are the second group to visit from Esbjerg. Another group was on campus in August 2011. Both visits derived from the visit by Dr. Les Hannah, director of Cherokee studies programs at NSU, to Esbjerg Handelsskole in 2010 Cherokee Cultural Heritage Center. Plus, at NSU, said the survival of Cherokee as a Fulbright Scholar. the students enjoyed playing stickball, language and customs is enhanced by A total of 10 Danish students and their Cherokee marbles, horseback riding and teaching them to the widest possible an Illinois River float trip. And Cherokee chaperone, plus two German students audience. came on the trip. Some of the sites storyteller Robert Lewis enthralled them viewed included the Murrell Home, the with his tales about Cherokee history. By visiting the U.S., the Danes fulfilled an Cherokee Nation Courthouse and the Lewis, also an adjunct faculty member international study requirement. Chinese exchange scholars enrich, enjoy NSU experience Endeavoring to promote diversity and cultural understanding, Northeastern State University has sought to enroll or host international students and create opportunities for resident students to study abroad. Such efforts have brought four dean of the College of Education; Zhou associate professor of humanities. exchange scholars from China to the is hosted by Dr. Roger Collier, dean of The fourth visitor, Dr. Weihong Zhu, NSU campus for the fall 2012 semester. the College of Business and Technology is from Shandong University and Three visitors are faculty of Weifang and Wang is hosted by Dr. Phillip Bridgmon, dean of the College of Liberal hosted by Dr. Martin Venneman, dean University in Shandong Province. They Arts. Respective faculty mentors are of the College of Science and Health are Dr. Qing Chen, Dr. Zhia Zhou and Dr. Ron Cambiano, assistant professor Professions. Her faculty mentor is Dr. Dr. Yong Wang, who serves as dean of of educational foundation leadership; April Adams, professor of physical Weifang's School of Foreign Languages. Dr. Bryan Buckley, assistant professor science. Her brother, Dr. Weijia Zhu, is an Chen is hosted by Dr. Deborah Landry, of economics and Dr. Andrew Vassar, assistant professor of physics at NSU.

Officers undergo active shooter training at NSU Though college campuses have a police officers and other law enforcement both of Houston. Instruction was held reputation for quiet and are among agencies took part in active shooter June 18-20. the safest places to live and work, rare tactical and medical training arranged by Four NSU officers participated, as did instances of gunmen terrorizing people on the NSU Department of Public Safety and members of the Cherokee Nation Marshal university grounds have forced campus Campus Police. Service and campus police departments of police departments to contemplate The training was arranged by Capt. James the University of Tulsa and the University the worst. Bell of the NSU police through PerSys of Oklahoma. At Northeastern State University, campus Medical Training Center and ISI LLC,

IMPRINTS >> 11 Northeastern News

came together to pay homage to a new chapter in NSU’s history of celebrating publinc art. The piece aptly named, “The Lighting of A Fire,” was given a dedication ceremony as President Steve Turner, Regent Jan Gordon, and Pernu spoke in credence of the new addition to NSUBA. David Gordon, who passed away in 1999, was a celebrated visionary and community leader who was among a group of civic leaders who campaigned to pass a city sales tax that provided funding to build the first three buildings at NSUBA. Funding for the art piece was made possible by the David Gordon memorial fund at the NSUFoundation. The title of Pernu’s work comes from Irish poet and playwright, William Butler Yeats, who was famously quoted as saying, Art inspired by education “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” shines at NSUBA Providing a focal point rich in color and depth, Pernu has created a virtual sunburst in abstract complete with jewel- Northeastern State University-Broken Arrow has partnered toned rays reaching out to the cosmos. Bold and emblazoned, with Broken Arrow Public School art teacher Katie Pernu to the glass mosaic appears as if it has been wrangled and provide a one-of-a-kind stained glass piece. chained to stained glass. Compiled from more than 4,000 On Aug. 20, in the Visitors’ Center Gallery at NSUBA, friends pieces of stained glass, Pernu spent nearly 300 hours working and colleagues as well as NSU students, faculty, and staff, on the project.

Rugg named NSU Vice President of Academic Affairs, Provost After a comprehensive and public search, Dr. William Rugg has been appointed Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost for Northeastern State University. The former Oklahoma resident has more than 25 years experience in higher education administration and will assume the provost duties on or before October 1, 2012. Northeastern President Steve Turner said Rugg’s commitment to higher education, experience and communication style helped make him a great fit. The veteran of higher education has held posts including "I am pleased to welcome Dr. Bill Rugg to the NSU community Director of Academic Affairs (provost duties), Director of in the critical role of Provost and Academic Vice President,” Distance Learning, dean, associate dean, assistant director, Turner said. “His commitment to students and the ‘customer executive council and sequence head or program coordinator experience’ aligns with efforts that are underway to enhance for various areas in higher education. He has supervised recruitment and retention. groups up to 2,000 employees with direct control of operating “Dr. Rugg’s 25 years of administrative experience at both budgets exceeding $45 million. public and private institutions, and his love of teaching, will It is a homecoming of sorts for Rugg and his wife, Denise. She undoubtedly have a positive impact on our core mission to was born and raised in the Oklahoma City area and he spent provide a quality education in northeast Oklahoma. I sincerely appreciate Dr. Doug Penisten for leading the campus wide eight years at Oklahoma State University. screening process that resulted in the selection of Dr. Rugg.” Rugg was selected by President Turner from a list of finalists Rugg is a charter board member, consultant and faculty established by a committee which included NSU faculty, member of The Customer Experience Institute and resides in staff, students and Tahlequah community members. Public Reno, Nev. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Mississippi in presentations and question and answer sessions were held for higher education administration and student services. each finalist.

IMPRINTS >> 12 Northeastern News NSUOCO faculty, residents volunteer at Special Olympics To promote quality eye care among Special Olympics athletes, Dr. Wes DeRosier and Dr. Heidi Thoden, NSUOCO faculty, are volunteers from the Northeastern State University Oklahoma the Oklahoma Clinical Directors of Special Olympics Lions College of Optometry recently participated in the Healthy Club International Opening Eyes (SOLCIOE). They initiated Athletes Opening Eyes section of the Special Olympics the annual Opening Eyes event at the Oklahoma Summer Summer Games in Stillwater. Games in 2003 and have since coordinated over 2,800 Each year the Oklahoma Association of Optometric Physicians, vision examinations for Special Olympics athletes. The 2012 in partnership with the American Optometric Association, games resulted in 401 athletes who received vision care proactively promotes quality eye care for people with at the Opening Eyes vision program. All athletes received intellectual disabilities. The mission of the Openning Eyes prescription glasses, sports glasses or sunglasses and 58 program is to provide quality vision and eye health care to athletes were referred for additional care. Special Olympics athletes. Any athlete failing the screening receives a complete eye exam on site. Athletes are referred for The 125 volunteers who manned the various stations were additional care for conditions that cannot be treated on site. made up of 36 optometric physicians, 33 optometry students, Dress glasses and sport goggles are fabricated on site and 19 Lions Club members and 38 technicians/opticians, eight of given to athletes free of charge. whom are full-time staff at NSUOCO.

Five NSU faculty study abroad To conduct research and establish Dr. Erik Terdal, associate professor of NSU create a global and diverse campus. overseas contacts, the International biology at NSU-Broken Arrow; and Dr. It enlarges the cohort of faculty involved Faculty Development Fellowship Andrew Vassar, associate professor of in international dialogue, further Program at Northeastern State humanities. internationalizes the NSU curricula University sent five faculty to travel Edwards traveled to Pollenzo and and enhances the university’s profile abroad this summer. Naples, Italy; Frusher to Havana; regionally and internationally. Participants in the 2012 program Starkweather went to Shanghai and The trips were arranged by the were Dr. Sandra Edwards, associate Sozhou, China; and Terdal visited Council on International Education professor of business administration at Monteverde, Costa Rica. Vassar Exchange (CIEE) in cooperation with NSU-Muskogee; Dr. O. Susan Frusher, ventured to Dakar, Goree Island, Toubab NSU and offer comprehensive study professor of educational foundations Dialaw and Poponguine in Senegal. opportunities. Faculty choose from a list and leadership; Dr. JoAnn Starkweather, The International Faculty Development of international development seminars professor of information systems; Fellowship Program is designed to help and apply for acceptance.

On the Monday and Tuesday mornings prior to the start of classes, incoming freshmen participated in the NSU Coin Ceremony. Faculty, staff and administrators lined the sidewalk from the Gateway Fountain leading to Centennial Plaza to welcome the new students. Each student also received a coin bearing NSU insignia prior to their first orientation sessions.

IMPRINTS >> 13 Distinguished Alumnus Feature Joe Gilbert:

A coach for all seasons By Tom Smith Barnsdall coach credits upbringing, NSU education for shaping his hall of fame coaching career.

Barnsdall coach Joe Gilbert is a There are a lot of rewards, but there However, it is not only the man for all seasons—, softball, are also some downsides—especially great athletes that Gilbert has had basketball, and sometimes football. for a coach. You are not going to be on the pleasure of coaching. One was Those are the sports in which he has top of the world all the time. a former athlete who hails from excelled during his more than 50 years “You better be ready to lose a lot coaching. of sleep, because it’s coming. What Barnsdall and played for Gilbert Gilbert has unofficially compiled I’ve learned through the years is how before a long and distinguished career more wins than anyone else on the to live with losing more. You learn in the military. Admiral Tom Hall nationwide varsity level. that when the game is over, you learn recently retired from the U.S. Navy The current girl’s softball and from the loss and move ahead.” after a career highlighted by being basketball coach at Barnsdall, Gilbert One of the great panaceas for named the fourth Assistant Secretary credits his success to the early those losses was to keep coaching all of Defense for Reserve Affairs in guidance he received while at NSU. year long—something Gilbert thinks “I wouldn’t be where I’m at today more aspiring coaches should do in October, 2002. if it wasn’t for NSU,” Gilbert said. small schools. Now Gilbert is coaching some “After just one week at school, you “When I get beat at the end of the second- and third-generation students. couldn’t run me off. I loved the place year, I know I have another season He said knowing the families and because everyone treated me nice. coming. So I just shake it off and their background is an advantage in The entire faculty at Northeastern move to another sport. If you get beat motivating today’s athletes. was interested in me. I still love the in basketball, you say ‘guys we are “I like to stay busy year round,” place.” starting baseball tomorrow or girls we A legend in the industry, Gilbert are starting softball tomorrow.’ And he said. “The only disadvantage is that only received one technical foul in his that has really helped me.” you can’t work year round with one career—and that was for coming out Still, Gilbert said the losses stick kid on one sport. But I want those on the court to assist an injured player. with him longer than the wins, except kids to play a sport each season at a Gilbert said he was raised to the heartbreak of the 1980 State small high school. Play every sport if keep his composure during times Championship baseball team. at all possible.” of pressure. He remembers his “I don’t look back. However, I mother telling him that he chose this will always remember the losses in While Tulsa and Oklahoma profession and ‘if you can’t handle the the state tournament,” he said. “In City area schools may have larger fire, get out of the frying pan.’ That softball, I can’t even say how many budgets and more athletes going out attitude has come out in his coaching times we lost in the state finals. And for various sports, Gilbert said he philosophy. the boy’s baseball and basketball have wouldn’t trade his experiences in this “I always try to be as fair as lost in the state. And they are always small town for anything. possible with kids. I try to treat a kid close games. “You’re involved more with those the way I would want to be treated “I can go back in the yearbook when I was playing. I just wanted a and recall how that team was beat in kids in a small school,” Gilbert said. “I fair shake and to not be embarrassed.” the state. The wins, I don’t remember know what kind of family this kid is The NSU alumnus has some them well. But I remember the out of and what to expect. words of advice for current students in losses.” “Barnsdall is one of the best the College of Education—make sure Gilbert has coached many top towns in the world. That’s why I’ve you know that coaching and teaching athletes during his more than 50 stayed. When I went there, it was a is a profession you need to love in years. One such athlete was selected much bigger town. But they don’t get order to be successful. as the best athlete in Barnsdall history. “Make sure this is what you want Brad Bell was a three-sport all-stater much better than here.” to do,” Gilbert said. “Delve into it and who eventually went on to play For mor information on Gilbert find out everything you can about it. baseball at Oklahoma State. visit nsuok.edu/homecoming.

IMPRINTS >> 15 Distinguished Alumnus

Photo courtesy of Tulsa World Feature Willard Jones:

The man in the mirror By Jennifer Zehnder From the classroom to the pulpit, this graduate's work has long been directed.

Willard Jones had only been preaching Goodwill, the Associated Centers for 1979, without the encouragement of his for nine months when parishioners of Therapy, and Domestic Violence and superiors, Jones enrolled in Oklahoma State Tulsa’s Greater Cornerstone Baptist Church Intervention Services. Job skills training, University where he obtained his master’s called him to give a sermon in 1996. It was food and clothing distribution, family and degree in educational administration a dying church seated upon a sinful ground youth counseling, after-school programs, and worked as the institution’s first black where drug dealers and gang bangers littered and mental health assistance, are now recruiter traveling to both black and white abandoned houses and filled poverty- available in a one-stop-shop to assist low- schools across the state. stricken streets. income residents. In 1982, Jones accepted the challenge “The devil thought he had won,” Though both his father and a brother as dean of boys at McLain High School, asserted the 1973 Northeastern State were in the ministry, Jones’ path back to the a tumultuous position he held until 1985 University alumnus. “‘Will the man in church was not a direct route. One of seven when he moved to Los Angeles County, the mirror do God’s will’ was the topic children born into a poor family, he grew up California, to work as coordinator for the of my message that day. That’s what God in a racially charged time. During his years speech pathology program. was saying to me. I don’t care that there’s in Sand Springs, Jones and his twin brother “One day I woke up and thought Los just five people out there. Are you going Millard were plucked from Booker T. Angeles is such a filthy city,” he said. “I’m to accept this calling and do what I ask you High School and placed into Charles Page tired of looking over my shoulder, this jet set to do—that which you’ve run from these High School as part of fledgling integration mentality, the violence, and everything else.” many years?” efforts. Jones came home to Oklahoma in 1986 He did. Today, the man in Jones’ Upon graduation in 1969, Jones and his and switched gears, working for the Mirex mirror continues to do God’s will—in brother found their way to Northeastern Corporation. He remained there until grand style. State. 1993 when he was named vice president Jones is convinced that God gives “Mom and dad were determined that of a Tulsa telecommunications group. The people information on a need-to-know we were going to live a better life then they company downsized in 2003, freeing Jones basis. After all, had the challenges of did. So they did whatever it took for them to to pursue his true calling full time. God’s vision for west Tulsa’s South Haven raise their children and send all seven of us “In 1995, God was pushing,” shared community been shared at the onset of the to college.” Jones. “He told me a long time ago that I project, the pastor admitted he would have The strain of integration continued on was going to preach and be a carrier of His declined the test. the college level said Jones. word. But I had been running—running “God didn’t tell me everything “We had walk-ins at the library my own little show and had put God on upfront,” he explained. “If he had, there’s demanding more black literature and the back burner. I accepted my call to the no doubt in my mind I would have backed black instructors, and wanting more equal ministry [part time] and preached my first away from it.” rights for black students at NSU. It was a message July 2, 1995.” Instead, Jones held fast for more than trying time on campus, especially since the Throughout his journey from the seven years. From feasibility studies to Vietnam War was going on.” classroom to the pulpit, Jones credits the fundraising, the vision came into full view Jones graduated with a degree in September 2012 when the ceremonial Speech-Language Pathology in 1973. The firm foundation he received at Northeastern ribbon was cut for the $7.2 million same superintendent who had once stated for helping guide his ordained path. Cornerstone Community Center. there would be no black students attending “I learned some good skills at “We brought God what he ordered. Charles Page High School, hired Jones Northeastern State University along the We built this with no federal, state, city, upon his graduation. way and was encouraged. Don’t ever forget or county tax dollars,” said Jones who “I did my internship in speech how important that is,” cautioned Jones. serves as the center’s executive director. pathology there. But when they saw that “The people that were personable to me “This community center was built with I had a minor in mental retardation, they were teaching me something that was a firm foundation—a small number of hired me on the spot and placed me in a going to help me way down the line. It large contributors, a large number of small classroom with special education students— was important to me that I received that contributors, with corporations and with back when they were still calling them tremendous foundation. churches. That’s who built this. imbeciles and morons and idiots instead of “Northeastern State is a place for all “We are strengthening lives in this educable and trainable.” seasons, there is no doubt about it. And community. That’s our mission.” As a young teacher there, Jones for my season spent there, I am forever The center houses several organizations introduced the Special Olympics program, grateful.” and agencies, including Campfire Boys coached elementary basketball, and For mor information on Jones Distinguished Alumnus and Girls, Family and Children's Services, supervised NSU intern teachers. In visit nsuok.edu/honories.

IMPRINTS >> 17 Distinguished Young Alumnus Feature

Dr. Michael Kayser:

A rare talent for finding rare diseases By Tom Smith Tulsa geneticist looks toward the future while diagnosing present patients.

Forward thinking has always been “We have all the tools and toys that rare diseases that affect only a small one of Dr. Michael Kayser’s strengths. It anyone would need,” he remarked. “We portion of the population. was that kind of thinking that led him are not as big as some. Most of these “I think there is a lot to learn from away from a traditional medical practice places are either on the East or West rare diseases,” he noted. “We learn a lot and into the emerging field of medical Coast. So we are trying to push genetics genetics. to the center of the country.” about how things work for healthy people Defined as the study of inheritance After spending time at the National from studying rare diseases. You would as it occurs in human beings, human Institutes of Health in Bethesda, be surprised how treatments that are genetics and its research answers Maryland, Kayser returned to his used everyday come out of rare diseases. questions about human nature, Oklahoma roots as part of his move into How do you learn how something works provides an understanding of diseases clinical genetics. without studying it when it’s broken?” and development of effective disease “It’s time to start using some of this The study of genetics, explained treatment, and shares an insight into the stuff clinically,” he asserted. “Our whole basic mechanics of human life. focus here is clinical. We are all about Kayser, can be compared to the study Kayser (’96) believes the fear and diagnosing and treating diseases. In the of a car. When it is broken, a mechanic anxiety surrounding genetics will soon lab, we really don’t do much research works on the vehicle to fix what is vanish. Now, he hears many people say, here. It’s all patient driven. ” wrong. But that also helps the mechanic ‘I don’t want to know.’ But in the future, Kayser said primary care physicians diagnose problems ahead of time because Kayser predicts this fear will give way to, refer cases to the clinic for genetic they studied the vehicle while broken. ‘I want to know,’ via testing. testing. Once a determination is made, Likewise, studying rare genetic diseases “It will be easier to get genetic those results go back to the primary testing,” Kayser noted. “It will likely be care physician who treats the patient helps lead to preventative medicine and direct to consumer not physician driven.” appropriately. practices. One of the misconceptions about “If you are passing out or have It was while sitting in a class listening genetics and testing is that it is “not a pain and it’s not your heart or joints, to a geneticist that the spark for medical crystal ball that can predict what you’re then it might be genetics,” he said. “It’s genetics was born, remembered Kayser. going to get and when you are going to frustrating sometimes, but sometimes we For any future or current NSU students get it.” find stuff that helps the patient.” who have the same desire to pursue a Rather, the NSU alumus sees genetic Having more of a connection with testing as “another tool.” patients is one of the reasons he decided career in genetics, he preaches patience. “It will be similar to an MRI,” Kayser to move away from research and into a “A lot of this takes a long time and said. “It is good information, important clinical setting. if you get in too big of a hurry, you are information. It will not cure anything, “Research is important, but it’s five going to end up stopping too soon,” or solve anything. But it will give or 10 years ahead of today,” Kayser stated. Kayser cautioned. “Most people focus on information to help diagnose a problem.” “We are dealing with today and clients the goal. But enjoy the time you spend, “I’m honored and appreciate this who have diseases today. We know what’s continue to learn, and you’ll eventually award,” Kayser said. “But I’m not a big coming and where we can be, but we award guy. I do what I do because I enjoy also need to worry about where we are get there. it. And when I don’t enjoy it anymore, I currently.” “Heck, I didn’t get a ‘real job’ will find something else to do.” One of the rare diseases that Kayser until 32 years old. That’s how long it Currently, Kayser is the medical specializes in and studied during his takes with medical school, residency, director for the Center for Genetics at residency is called alkaptonuria. This is and fellowships. If you really enjoy St. Francis hospitol in Tulsa, OK. He a rare, inherited genetic disorder where something, you’ve got to keep at it. Try currently oversees three labs and a clinic. toxic acid builds up in the blood and is not to get derailed along the way.” The former Tulsa Children’s Medical excreted in urine in large amounts. He Center facility has been studying genetics said he is often asked why geneticists For mor information on Kayser Distinguished Young Alumnus since the 1980s. spend so much time and effort studying visit nsuok.edu/honories.

IMPRINTS >> 19 IMPRINTS >> 20 IMPRINTS >> 21 Sunday, September 30 Paint the Town Green, Noon to 5 p.m., Muskogee Ave NSU student organizations compete for best window painting depicting the 2012 Homecoming theme. Window paintings will be displayed throughout the week and weekend. Monday, October 1 Block Party 6 to 8 p.m. at Beta Field NSU and Tahlequah communities begin the week off right with the NSGA chili cook-off, music and entertainment, and children’s activities. Thursday, October 4 ★ Special Event ★ Investiture for Dr. Steve Turner 1:30 p.m. NSU Center for Performing Arts Reception to follow in University Center Ballroom Bonfire & Spirit Rally 7:30 to 9 p.m. at Beta Field Homecoming is not Homecoming without the traditional bonfire and pep rally. Music, hot dogs and good old school spirit to build up for the big weekend. Friday, October 5 Alumni Association Green & White Golf Classic Sponsored By: 10 a.m. at Cherry Springs Golf Course Alumni and friends are invited to play in NSU’s annual golf event. No need to be an expert golfer here. Plenty of golf for the purists as well as a few surprises along the way. Alumni Association & NSU Foundation Champagne Bingo Sponsored By: 11 a.m. at University Center Rozell Ballroom One of recent Homecomings’ most popular events is back! Alumni and friends are invited to a late morning of dining, toasting and bingo. The return of this tradition is a festive way to begin the Homecoming weekend. ★ NEW Event ★ Little Miss & Mister RiverHawk Pageant Presented by NSU Continuing Education 4 p.m. A natural for any young person who loves NSU. Every participant receives a prize and each age category princess and prince receives a crown and sash. Overall queen and king will participate in the traditional halftime coronation ceremony. Contact NSU Continuing Education for details. 918-444-4610. ★ NEW Event ★ Alumni Association North End Homecoming Street Bash at The Branch 7 p.m. at The North End Entertainment District Homecoming’s official kick-off party! There is no cover charge for this evening affair. Come enjoy food, fun and entertainment. A DJ will get the party started off right with tunes to get your feet moving. Live bands (Critical Mass and Red Eye Gravy) will take the revelry well into the night. Women’s Soccer vs. Nebraska-Kearney 7 p.m. at Dan DeLoache Field

IMPRINTS >> 22 Schedule of events

Saturday, October 6 Athletic Association Breakfast 8 a.m. at University Center Rozell Ballroom All former athletes, friends and guests will gather to reminisce and recount the glory days. Learn what’s new as NSU begins its inaugural march through the MIAA. To purchase tickets or for information, contact NSU Athletics. 918-444-3900. ★ NEW Event ★ Barnes & Noble’s Discounts & Donuts 9 to 11 a.m. at RiverHawk Shoppe (University Center) A new addition to the Homecoming line-up, this is the perfect opportunity to gear up in green and white for the day’s festivities. Big discounts on apparel combined with free coffee and donuts. Proceeds from the day’s sales will be donated to support Alumni Association outreach efforts. Capitola “Cappi” Wadley Reading & Technology Center Open House 9 to 11 a.m. at Bagley Hall Take a tour of NSU’s newest facility and see how this center will support literacy efforts for the area’s families and enrich the education experience of NSU’s students. You can help with the effort by bringing new or gently used children’s books to include in the center’s collection. Homecoming Parade 11 a.m., Downtown Tahlequah to NSU This Homecoming standard promotes spirit and showcases the creativity of NSU’s student organizations, alumni and other community groups. See the distinguished alumni honorees and homecoming royalty candidates make their first appearances. Alumni Association Life Member Luncheon & Half Century Club Recognition Noon at President’s Backyard President and Mrs. Turner invite the Alumni Association’s life members to this exclusive, casual gathering in the backyard of the president’s home. Alumni from the Class of 1962 will also be honored. Space is limited so RSVP ASAP. Reunion Tailgate Party Noon at Doc Wadley Stadium Bring your grill and favorite game-day fare, and hang out with old friends and meet new ones prior to kick-off. Alumni Association Green & White Network Cook-Out Sponsored By: 12:30 p.m. at Doc Wadley Stadium under the Big Green & White Tent Tailgating not your thing? No worries. The Alumni Association board of directors invites you to stop by and enjoy free hot dogs, chips and cookies (while supplies last). Football vs. Missouri Western 2 p.m. at Gable Field at Doc Wadley Stadium NSU student organizations compete for best window painting depicting the 2012 Homecoming theme. Window paintings will be displayed throughout the week and weekend. 2012 Alumni Association Honorees Distinguished Alumnus—Joe Gilbert ’54, ’70, Educator, Coach Distinguished Alumnus—Willard Jones ’73, Philanthropist, Pastor Outstanding Young Alumnus—Dr. Michael Kayser ’96, Medical Geneticist

IMPRINTS >> 23 C

WEDDINGS *Mac Maddox '05 and Emily Blanchard ‘08 and Jennifer Bishop Shannon Storey were married Josh Hallford were married in ‘10s ‘10 and Adam Mason lass Richard Curry July 28, 2012. September 2011. were married on May 26, 2012 ‘56 & ‘73 and ‘50s Laura Davies ‘06 and Kimberly Diedrich ‘10 and Marilyn Rauser were married in Jay Howell ‘08 and Rebecca Christopher Calabrese were Rafe Williams were married on April 2012. Parks were married on married on May 12, 2012. May 12, 2012. Freddie Boyd May 12, 2012. Brian Himes ‘06 and Tyler Duncan ‘10 and ‘65 and Kenita ‘60s Christina Girod were married in Cayne Martin ‘08 and Ashley Elaina Munoz were married in Cook were married in February 2012. Hill were married on February 2012. January 2012. Charity Wynn ‘06 and May 19, 2012. Ben Elliott ‘10 and Megan Robert Kresse Russell Strozier were married in Kim Nazarman ‘08 and Melott were married on May ‘80s ‘87 and Laura A January 2012. Adam Willbourn were married 26, 2012. Burke were married on February 25, 2012. Sue Chang ‘07 and Sandran in September 2011. Paul Mutagamba ‘10 and Perumal were married in Juwell Martinez were married Brendan Bohannon ‘89 Theresa Sulzan ‘08 & ‘10 cts May 2012. in September 2011. and Michelle Henderson were and John Leskowat were married in March 2012. Jennifer Donohue ‘07 and married on June 23, 2012. Karissa Rogers ‘10 and Brian Rahlf were married on Spencer Adams were married Rebecca Beck April 21, 2012. Daniel Ulberg ‘08 and Bren on June 9, 2012. ‘90 and Darryl Ulberg were married in ‘90s Whitney Fulmer ‘07 and Rustyn Van Deventer ‘10 Williams were married in David Drucker were married on March 2012. and Tiffany De La Cerda were May 2012. May 27, 2012. Lacee Craig ‘09 and Austin married on March 17, 2012. Natalie Hartgrave ‘93 & Jennifer Josser ‘07 and McArdle ‘10 were married on Tyler Virden ‘10 and Bailey ‘94 and William Ransier were Johnny Harsha Jr. were June 2, 2012. Hendrix were married in married in June 2012. married on February 5, 2012. Shavonne Harvey ‘09 and October 2011. Derek Coffey ‘94 and Jodi Sara Toofan ‘07 and Kenneth Angel Pizana were married in Emily Wilbins ‘10 and Cooper were married in McDonald were married on April 2012. Williiam Kelsay were married on March 2012. June 16, 2012. May 20, 2012. Todd Kinnikin ‘09 and Casey Francis Dum ‘94 and Xiu Gao Catherine Anderson ‘08 Rosaline Winiecke ‘10 and Watson were married on were married in April 2012. and Nathan Wolf were married Greg Kinard were married in in September 2011. May 12, 2012. November 2011. Michael Elizondo ‘96 and Sandra Vazquez were married Emily Baldwin ‘08 and Carlos Suarez ‘09 and Olga Cowan ‘11 and Justin in April 2012. Dujuan Jackson were married Deborah Burkowski were Zumwalt were married in in February 2012. married in September 2011. October 2011. Mark Shyers ‘96 and Kendra Cummings were married in May 2012. Cindy Crider ‘97 and Joseph Cantero were married on October 8, 2011. Jacob ‘00s Manzelman ‘00 and Taylor Hardeman were married on May 18, 2012. Bernadette Hall ‘03 and Jason Keck were married on GATHER June 17, 2012. Dez Watts ‘03 and Jim HERE. Breech ‘04 were married on May 27, 2012. Rebecca Burrows ‘04 and Michael Whalen were married in May 2012. GO FAR. Karen Garis ‘04 and William Toliver were married in September 2011. More than 50 undergraduate Nicole Douglas ‘05 and a n d over 30 gra duate de grees Torey Winfield were married on March 24, 2012. Angela Guillory ‘05 & ‘09 and Robert Allison were married on April 8, 2012. 1-800-722-9614 www.Go2NSU.com Kevin Heeney ‘05 and Tara McComas were married on June 8, 2012.

IMPRINTS >> 24 Class Acts

Naomi Gonzalez ‘11 and Paul Ian Kenneth Moore, son of Gray-Fox were married in *Jay ‘01 and Kami Moore, was March 2012. born February 28, 2012. The Sequoyah Institute at Northeastern State University Presents Sissy Hamilton ‘11 and Jeff Lily McKenzie, daughter of 27th Annu a l Brodrick were married on Kaylon ‘03 and James McKenzie, September 1, 2012. was born December 2, 2011. Danielle Hull ‘11 and Adam Greyson Gage Freise, son Martin were married in January of Cassie (Weir) ‘04 & ‘06 and 2012. Jeremy Freise ‘05, was born Galaxyof2012-2013 Frederik Jensen ‘11 and Tiffany September 21, 2011. Scott were married in January Leighton Paige Molini, 2012. daughter of Levi ‘04 and Laurel Stars Series Christopher Kelle ‘11 and Molini, was born October 3, 2011. Stephanie Finley were married on Emma Marie Snow, daughter May 12, 2012. of Sam ‘05 and Erin Snow, was Brooke Painter ‘11 and Grant born March 20, 2012. Tracy were married in March 2012. Time for Three Maddox Reid Adney, son of ANNIVERSARIES Heather (Winkleman) ‘06 & ‘09 Wednesday, October 24, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. and Chris Adney ‘04 & ‘07, was Beyond the Stage: Learning LIVE matinee performance for area Don ’66 and ‘60s LaQuita Bittle born June 1, 2012. schools celebrated their 50th wedding Charles Bingham, son of anniversary on April 19, 2012. Ila (Franklin ) ‘06 and Andrew Danna (Budd) ’87 Bingham, was born June 1, 2012. The Water Coolers and Rick Fowble Friday, November 16, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. ‘80s Blake Christopher Searcy, celebrated their 25th wedding son of Lara ‘06 & ‘09 and *Brian Beyond the Stage: Playing Comedy Master Class anniversary on August 28, 2012. Searcy ‘04 & ‘11, was born July BIRTHS 12, 2012. Asleep at the Wheel Santa Loves to Boogie Brant John Keegan Tripp, son of Brooke Friday, December 7, 2012 at 7:30 p.m. ‘80s Brown, grandson of (Hyslop) ‘06 and Trampas Tripp *Jan (Richards) Morris ‘80, was ‘07, was born October 31, 2011. Beyond the Stage: Bluegrass Master Class with Q&A born November 14, 2011. Allie Ranae Byrd, Hannah granddaughter of Ranae Byrd ‘07, Frank Vignola ‘90s Josephine, was born April 4, 2012. granddaughter of *Linda ‘92 and Friday, January 25, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. Parker & Payge Henderson, *Lloyd Spyres, was born May 6, Beyond the Stage: Guitar Workshop with Frank Vignola twin children of Amanda (Ott) ‘07 2012. and Chris Henderson, were born Hunter Elizabeth Boren, April 1, 2011. daughter of *Laura (Carpenter) Montana Rep Theatre presents Neil Simon’s Biloxi Blues , ‘94 and *Shane Boren ‘95, was Blake Nicholas Hensley Tuesday, February 26, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. son of Shannon (Mcgill) ‘07 and born June 12, 2012. Beyond the Stage: Post-show discussion with Q&A Randy Hensley ‘05, was born Avery Paige Cacy, daughter of July 8, 2012. *Gary ‘96 & ‘98 and Emily Cacy, was born April 4, 2012. Isaac William Richardson, Step Afrika son of Leslie Richardson ‘07, was Autumn Symone Graham, Thursday, March 28, 2013 at 7:30 p.m. born June 13, 2012. daughter of Kristi Graham ‘96, Beyond the Stage: Learning LIVE matinee performance for area Hagen William Hill, son of was born December 26, 2011. schools Kamicha Hill ‘08, was born Braylen, grandchild of Carol September 19, 2011. Limpy-Holmes ‘98, was born April 18, 2012. Reagan Ann Konieczny, Get your season tickets by calling 918.458.2075 or daughter of *Emily (Spencer) ‘08 visit www.nsuok.edu/si for more information Braxton Spurlock, son of Chad ‘96 and Andrea Spurlock, was & ‘05 and *Brian Konieczny ‘07, born September 22, 2012. was born May 9, 2012. Willa Liora Heater, daughter Jackson Meryhew, son of of *Buffy (Hamilton) ‘99 and Tricia (Hertz) ‘08 and Jacob *Tobey Heater ‘98, was born Meryhew ‘08, was born March 30, 2012. December 12, 2011. Catherine Craig Gunner Christ, son of Dustin ‘09 and Tia Christ, was born ‘00s Buchan, daughter of Sarah (Cook) ‘01 & Craig February 15, 2012. Buchan and granddaughter of Harrison Hicks, son of Sarah *Jerry ’72 & ’06 and *Barbra ‘09 and Brian Hicks, was born Cook, was born April 11, 2012. September 23, 2011.

* Alumni Association Lifetime Member IMPRINTS >> 25 Class Acts

Ella Moreland, daughter of Amber Sylvester Franklin ‘54 was a Tahlequah Middle School. named the Superintendent for the (Chappell) ‘09 and Brant Moreland, 2012 inductee into the Oklahoma *Jaime Woody ‘88 was named Casa Grande Union High School was born February 6, 2012. African American Educators Hall the Dean of Students & Director District in Arizona. of Fame. Lane Pippen, son of Renee of Residence Life at Southwestern Linda Hasler-Reid ‘95 was Gerry Milligan ‘66 (Comeaux) ‘09 and Josh Pippen, University in Georgetown, Texas. named the Vice Principal at Jenks retired from ’60s Marilyn Dewoody ‘89 & ‘97 East Intermediate School. was born February 28, 2012. Oklahoma Baptist University after Paisley Claire serving on the faculty as an was named the Superintendent Wes Gilliam ‘96 joined for Hulbert Public Schools. HoganTaylor as a Controller. ‘10s Larcade, daughter of Assistant Professor of Nursing. Chris ‘10 and Erin Larcade, was Harold Aldridge Lane Glenn ‘89 was Travis Cannady ‘97 & ‘01 was born May 2, 2012. ’70s ‘70 was a 2012 inaugurated as the President named the Head Boys Basketball inductee into the Oklahoma at Northern Essex Community Coach for Adair High School. Michaela Abner, African American Educators Hall College. Mack Chambers ‘98 was granddaughter of Tammy Lord of Fame. ‘10, was born April 2, 1012. Michael Reid ‘89 was named named the Assistant Baseball Karen (Fry) Watkins ‘78 was Coach for Broken Arrow Caden Rey, child of Megan the Principal at Sapulpa Freedom named Teacher of the Year for Elementary School. High School. (Slayton) Cash ‘11, was born . October 17, 2011. Sherry (Coffey) Treasure McKenzie ‘98 was Joel Myers ‘79 retired as the Girard ‘91 was named the President & CEO of the Jaxon Proctor, son of Kristi Carver Middle School Guidance ’90s named Teacher of the Year for Greater Muskogee Area Chamber (Gilliam) ‘11 and Joel Proctor, was Counselor after 43 years at Tulsa of Commerce. born April 11, 2011. Public Schools. Bixby Public Schools. David Wilkins ‘98 & ‘00 was Bradie Jolene Starkey, *Scott Bird ‘88 Eddy Weygand ‘91 was named the Superintendent for daughter of Taryn ‘11 and Brandon was named the promoted to Banking Officer & ’80s Dewey Public Schools. Starkey, was born February 7, 2012. Director of Athletic Performance Cash Vault Manager for F&M Bank at the University of Missouri. & Trust Co. Shawn Dismuke ‘99 was Olivia & Dakota named the Head Football Coach Opp, twin John deSteiguer '84 was *Michael Turner '91 & '98 Other for Webbers Falls High School. grandchildren of * Sue and inaugurated as the President of was named the Community Richard Opp, was born Oklahoma Christian University. Investments Agency Specialist for Lacie June 26, 2012. Mohammed Hoque ‘88 was the Tulsa Area United Way. ’00s (Bachmeier) named a Program Manager Davenport ‘00 & ‘06 was Michael Peters ‘92 was named MILESTONES for Ericsson. named the Principal at Heritage Teacher of the Year for Tahlequah Elementary School in Tahlequah. Rose Cheek ‘51 Jerry McPeak ‘88 was High School. was named the appointed to the Council for *Mandy (Burgess) Lonsdale ‘50s National Coach of the Year for Native American Farming & Charla (Dryden) Martin ‘00 was selected as the 2011 Girls . She currently Ranching. ‘93 was named the Senior HR Outstanding Senior Non- coaches at Siloam Springs High Cindy Robertson ‘88 was Generalist for Hilti Corp. Commissioned Officer of the Year School in Arkansas. named Teacher of the Year for Shannon Goodsell ‘95 was for the State of Oklahoma. Shop Now Find a wide assortment of NSU Pride merchandise on the NSU alumni website. nsualumni.com/shop

IMPRINTS >> 26 * Alumni Association Lifetime Member Class Acts

Amy (Wallace) Saxon '01 was Tiffani Cooper ‘07 was named Thomas Fagg ‘79, of Tulsa, Keith Sullivan ‘92, of Sand named the Director of Group Teacher of the Year for Owasso passed away January 4, 2012. Springs, passed away Sales for the Tampa Public Schools. Christine June 1, 2012. Bay Buccaneers. Mark McElreath ‘07 was ’80s (Dunaway) Billie Poole ‘93, of Tahlequah, Leon Ashlock ‘02 was named named a Development Officer Garner ‘80, of Tahlequah, passed away July 3, 2012. the Principal for Keys High for the College of Science for the passed away April 16, 2012. School. Noel Rhodd ‘93 & ‘09, University of Central Oklahoma. Betty Hagerdon ‘80, of of Ochelata, passed away

Jessica (Fisher) Matthews Collinsville, passed away September 30, 2011. ‘02 & ‘04 coached the Keys High Leslie Richardson ‘07 was October 22, 2011. School Speech & Debate team to named Teacher of the Year for Tod McBrien ‘96, of Muskogee, the state title in Oklahoma. Sequoyah Elementary School Bruce Lyons ‘80, of Tulsa, passed away May 23, 2012. in Tahlequah. Tiffany (Woolman) Neill passed away March 16, 2012. Sandra Rothhammer ‘96, of ‘02 accepted a position with the Cory Haltom ‘08 was named Wadie Morton ‘80, of Cookson, passed away Oklahoma State Department of the Health Care Division Manager Muskogee, passed away May 11, 2012. Education. for Curzon, Cumbey, & Kunkel. April 9, 2012. Michael Smart ‘96, of James Taylor ‘02 was named Ashlie (Hayes) Sebert ‘08 Diana Motley ‘80, of Pryor, Muskogee, passed away a Commanding Officer for The joined the faculty at Ponca City passed away March 27, 2012. March 25, 2012. Salvation Army. Public Schools as a Special Shirley Burnes ‘82, of Fort Kenneth Kimmel ‘98, of Education Teacher. Kevin Higginbottom ‘03 was Gibson, passed away Tahlequah, passed away recognized with the Act of Valor Chris Howk ‘09 & ‘11 was named February 18, 2012. May 15, 2012. Award by the Wagoner Police a Principal for Paden Barbara (Fisher) Nichols Angela (Coke) Hockett ‘99, of Department. Public Schools. ‘82, of Tulsa, passed away April Cushing, passed away Matthew McGuire ‘03 was James Rappe ‘09 was named 16, 2012. May 14, 2012. named a Financial Representative Tahlequah High School’s Head Terry Crawford ‘83, of Pryor, for Country Financial. Mindi Voss ‘01, of Wrestling Coach. passed away November 9, 2011. ’90s Muskogee, passed Nick Carroll ‘04 joined the staff ‘83, away May 17, 2012. at Harvard Family Physicians. Ben Ellis ‘11 joined Marilyn (McGuire) Julian Williams Co as a Gas of Broken Arrow, passed away Debra (Harmon) Kekahbah Kyle Cooper ‘04 & ‘08 was ’10s Management Representative. May 29, 2012. ‘03, of Broken Arrow, passed named Teacher of the Year for Coweta Public Schools. Memoriam Kevin Collins ‘84 & ‘87, of away May 23, 2012. Tulsa, passed away April 28, 2012. Daniel Wilson ‘06 & ‘10, Sharla (Johnson) Harris ‘04 *Betty Burroughs & ‘09 was named a Counselor for Lahman Jones ‘84, of Tulsa, of Tulsa, passed away ‘38, of Tahlequah, Inola Elementary School. ’30s passed away September 27, 2011. September 19, 2011. passed away May 22, 2012. nsualumni.com Courtney Waggle ‘04 was Carolyn (Olzawski) Ketcham named Teacher of the Year Charles Dickson ’40s ‘49, of Pryor, passed ‘84, of Muskogee, passed away for Woodall School, and she October 2, 2011. also recently accepted a away July 2012. teaching position at Fort Gibson Elmer Hoffman Julianna (Gunn) Riley ‘84, of Elementary School. ’50s ‘55, of Muskogee, Tulsa, passed away March 8, 2012. Sarah Head ‘05 & ‘09 joined passed away May 31, 2012. Ruthie Adair ‘87, of Tulsa, the C. Carter Crane Shelter for Carlton Wright ’56 and NSU passed away April 24, 2012. the Homeless as the Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee, of Mollie (McGarity) Conroy ‘87, Shelter Director. Willows, California, passed away of Broken Arrow, passed away *Stephen Highers ‘05 March 21, 2012. April 27, 2012. was named the Manager of Lonnie Capps ‘58 & ‘71, of Peggy Connell ‘88, of Entrepreneur Development for Tahlequah, passed away Tahlequah, passed away the Cherokee Nation, and he was April 1, 2012. also named Member of the Year March 10, 2012. by the Tahlequah Chamber Billy Greenwood Patricia Muirheid ‘88, of of Commerce. ’60s ‘60, of Muskogee, Owasso, passed away Chuck Perry ‘05 was promoted passed away March 20, 2012. May 9, 2012. to Director of Secondary Jack Ballew ‘65, of Tahlequah, David Ambrose ‘89, of Education for Union Public passed away March 27, 2012. Checotah, passed away Schools. Keith Reagan ‘65, of Jenks, April 15, 2012. Amanda (Petty) Spriggs ‘05 passed away April 28, 2012. Larry Ballard ‘89, of Tulsa, & ‘07 joined Parkside Psychiatry Harold Garner ‘66, of Kansas, passed away January 7, 2012. Hospital as a Therapist. Oklahoma, passed away Ranie Jacobs ‘89, of Brad Ayo ‘06 joined the Hall May 7, 2012. Muskogee, passed away Estill law firm as an Associate. Ronal Shepard ‘66, of April 1, 2012. Sammy Clark ‘06 is now the Henryetta, passed away Phillip Lowe ‘90, Touring Drummer for the band, of Tulsa, passed Moon Furies. May 23, 2012. ’90s away March 14, 2012. Lara Searcy ‘06 & ‘09 was Renn Lacroix ‘67, of Tulsa, named the Literacy Coach for passed away November 9, 2011. Cari (Roper) McLarty ‘90, of Tahlequah Middle School. Susan Goodman Broken Arrow, passed away May 3, 2012. Brandon Chitty ‘07 was named ’70s ‘72 & ‘76, of Sand Teacher of the Year for Broken Springs, passed away Barbara (Nance) Rice ‘92, of Arrow Public Schools. May 2, 2012. Tulsa, passed away May 8, 2012.

IMPRINTS >> 27 This fall the athletic programs at Northeastern State University athletics will participate in the Mid- American Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) with full mem- bership. Representatives of the NSU Department of Athletics attended the 2012 MIAA Football Media Day on August 6 at the Downtown Marriott in Kansas City, MO, where the River- Hawks were selected to finish ninth by MIAA coaches and 10th by the media. “Coming into such a great confer- ence, we’re right about where I thought we would be,” said NSU head coach Kenny Evans. “I’m more concerned with where we finish, and I hope the team uses this as motivation to have a great first year in the league.” Making a Splash

Defending Division II national champion Pittsburg State was selected as the preseason favorite in both polls, while Northwest Missouri and Mis- souri Western also received first-place votes in both polls. The MIAA, which has 15 mem- bers for the 2012-13 academic year, consists of NCAA Division II institu- tions in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. The league was first organized in 1912 as the Missouri In- tercollegiate Athletic Association. For a century, the MIAA has maintained a reputation as a top NCAA Division II conference. MIAA student-athletes have won 15 NCAA team championships and, since 1964, more than 160 individual national titles. The MIAA currently conducts championships in eight sports for men and nine for women. For more information about the MIAA visit themiaa.com.

IMPRINTS >> 28 IMPRINTS >> 29 A

supplement other fundraising dol- thleti lars to help us enhance the student- athlete experience at NSU." Numerous prizes were given away, including rounds of golf at some of the top courses in northeast Okla- homa and a grand prize drawing for six seats in the Love Bottling suite at OneOK Field for a Tulsa Drillers game. Wade Bennett, an NSU alumnus from Locust Grove, was awarded

c $5,000 for recording a hole-in-one. First place went to the team of John s NSU Golf Classic raises $40k for Hron IV, John Hron V, Ed Shepherd and Scott Shepherd. There was a tie RiverHawk athletics for second place, won by the team Enjoying one of its most success- "We would like to thank the NSU of Andy Quetone, Cody Quetone, ful tournaments, the Northeastern Athletic Association and Ted Van- Doug Evans and Jordan Whitford, State University Golf Classic played curen, the Golf Classic chair, for tak- and the team of Joe Ragsdale, Kelly on June 4 raised about $40,000 for ing the lead and making this year's Bell, Steve Burchett and Derrick the RiverHawk athletic teams. golf classic a success," said Tony Daniels. Serving as the largest fundraiser for Duckworth, athletics director. "The The event's title sponsors were the NSU Department of Athletics, alumni, supporters and participants the Cherokee Nation, the United the Golf Classic hosted 32 four- who played are greatly appreciated, Keetoowah Band, the Muscogee person teams at Cherokee Hills Golf and we are grateful to the sponsors (Creek) Nation, BancFirst and Love Club in Catoosa. and donors. These proceeds will Bottling Co. Inc.

Gipson adds three to 2012-13 class Northeastern Head Men’s Basketball “We are excited about the interna- Coach Larry Gipson announced the tional flavor Matt brings to the table,” addition of three players for the up- Gipson said. coming 2012-13 season. Hobbs, a 6-foot-1 guard from St. Louis, Matt Logan, Bryton Hobbs and Mo., is a transfer from Pratt Commu- Marcus Sheppard are set to join the nity College in Pratt, Kan. He aver- RiverHawks. aged 18.6 points per game at PCC and “We are pleased with our recruiting was an All-Region XI performer in the class as a whole,” Gipson said. “We Kansas Jayhawks Community College have filled some major needs by add- Conference. He also led the region ing size, point guards and wing scor- with 6.14 assists per game, and he ers. We are excited about the addition also averaged 1.8 steals per game and of these three young men, because shot 76 percent from the free-throw they bring a blend of experience with line. the transfers and youth with the freshmen.” Sheppard is a 6-foot-4 transfer from Logan is a 6-foot-2 point guard from Southern Shreveport Junior College. Australia. He played on the Australian He helped lead the team to the region U-17 national team which competed in final both years at SSJC, which was China. one game shy of qualifying for the national tournament. Logan found his way to Tahlequah with the help of Sarah Millar, who He was a first-team all-conference graduated from NSU in 2010 following performer, averaging 13.0 points per a brilliant four-year career. game, 7.0 rpg and 4.0 apg.

IMPRINTS >> 30 Athletics NSU RIVERHAWKS FALL SPORTS 2012 Football men’s Soccer 8/30 Pittsburg st. 6:00 pm 8/31 MO. st. louis 7:00 pm 9/8 Mo. southern st. 6:00 pm 9/2 MARYVILLE (Mo.) 1:00 pm 9/15 WASHBURN 6:00 pm 9/7 COLORADO mesa @ hays, ks 3:30 pm 9/22 Emporia st. 6:00 pm 9/9 SIOUX falls @ hays, ks 11:00 am 9/29 NORTHWEST mo. st. 2:30 pm 9/14 HARDING 1:00 pm 10/6 MO. western st. 2:00 pm 9/20 FORT hays st. 7:00 pm 10/20 CENTRAL mo. 2:00 pm 10/27 SOUTHWEST baptist 1:00 pm 9/22 SOUTHERN nazarene 1:00 pm 11/3 LINCOLN mo. 2:00 pm 9/28 TRUMAN 7:00 pm 11/10 Central Oklahoma 1:00 pm 9/30 UPPER iowa 1:00 pm 10/5 INCARNATE word 5:00 pm Former RiverHawk men’s golf 10/7 MIDWESTERN st. 1:00 pm returns as offensive 9/12 WICHITA state 9/13 WICHITA state 10/11 LINDENWOOD 7:30 pm coordinator 9/26 NORTHEASTERN st. 10/13 SOUTHWEST baptist 11:00 Am @muskogee country club 10/18 FORT hays st. 7:00 pm Head Football Coach Kenny Evans has 9/27 NORTHEASTERN st. 10/20 SOUTHERN nazarene 7:00 pm announced Paul Lane as the new offen- @ muskogee country club 10/23 OUACHITA baptist 6:00 pm sive coordinator for the RiverHawks. 10/10 NORTH alabama 10/26 Harding 7:00PM @indian bayou country club 11/1 2012 MIAA CHAMPIONSHIPT TBA Lane, a 1994 graduate of NSU, was an 10/11 NORTH alabama NAIA Division I Football All-American @indian bayou country club WOmen’s Soccer in 1992 and helped lead Northeastern 10/17 CENTRAL missouri 8/30 Okla. baptist 7:00 pm @ jefferson city country club State to two Oklahoma Intercollegiate 9/7 MCMURRY 7:00 pm 10/18 CENTRAL missouri Conference Championships (1990-91). 9/9 HARDING 1:00 pm @jefferson city country club He was a three-time All-Conference per- 10/24 ST. mary’s tx. 9/11 EAST central 7:00 pm former and was a member of two NSU @the dominican country club 9/14 NORTHWESTERN st 7:00 pm teams that qualified for the NAIA Divi- 10/25 ST. mary 9/16 MO. southern st. 1:00 pm sion I Football National Championship. @ The dominican COUNTRY CLUB 9/21 LINDENWOOD 7:00 pm 9/23 TRUMAN 1:00 pm Prior to returning to Northeastern WOmen’s golf 9/28 NORTHWEST mo. st. 4:00 pm State, Lane spent six years at Forest 9/19 NORTHEASTERN ST. @ CHERRY SPRINGS 9/30 MO. western st. 12:00 pm Laboratories in St. Louis, Mo., as a 9/20 NORTHEASTERN ST. @ CHERRY SPRINGS 10/5 NEB.-kearney 7:00 pm 9/26 LOUISIANA-MONROE @ BAYOU DE SIARD CC senior medical representative in the 10/7 FORT hays st. 11:00 am 9/27 LOUISIANA-MONROE @ BAYOU DE SIARD CC 10/11 SOUTHWEST baptist 4:00 pm Therapeutics Division. 10/3 CENTRAL OKLAHOMA @ LINCOLN PARK 10/13 CENTRAL mo. 7:00 pm His last coaching stop came at South- 10/4 CENTRAL OKLAHOMA @ LINCOLN PARK 10/19 CENTRAL oklahoma 4:00 pm eastern Oklahoma State University, 10/17 ST. LEO’S @ LAKE JOVITA CC 10/23 OUACHITA baptist 400 pm where he spent four years from 2002- 10/18 ST. LEO’S @ LAKE JOVITA CC 10/24 CAMERON @ FT. SILL OFFICER’S CLUB 10/26 EMPORIA st. 4:00 pm 06 serving as both the offensive 10/25 CAMERON @ FT. SILL OFFICER’S CLUB 10/28 WASHBURN 2:00 pm coordinator and offensive line coach. He helped lead the Savage Storm to two Check website for the current times. Lone Star Conference North Division Championships (2004-05) and two con- Home games are listed in BOLD ference runner-up finishes (2002-03). GORIVERHAWKSGO.COM Southeastern had the No. 1-ranked scoring offense in the LSC in both 2003 NSU FOOTBALL SEASON TICKETS ON SALE and ’04. The team was also No. 2 in total offense in the league both of those The Northeastern State University RiverHawks are set to begin their first season as a league member of the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletic Association and season seasons, and the Storm had the No. tickets are now on sale. 1-ranked turnover margin in Lane’s final year in 2005. Season ticket holders receive the benefit of sitting in comfortable, chair back seats. They also receive free programs for every home game, the first option to purchase Lane received his Master of Science NSU playoff tickets and a reduced price on basketball season tickets. in college teaching from Northeastern Two seats can be purchased at $140, three seats are $200 and four seats are $250. State in August 1998. He also earned his Each additional seat is $55 more. To purchase tickets, call 918-444-3901 or Bachelor of Science in health & physical email [email protected]. education from NSU in January 1994.

IMPRINTS >> 31 812 N. Cedar Ave. Tahlequah, OK 74464-2399

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Alumni Association Presents Emerald Ball

Saturday December, 8