The magazine of Missouri Western State University Missouri Fall 2014 Western

Community members lead Missouri Western into

Dale and Dan Boulware, Mary Margaret and Dr. Mark Laney the next centurpg. 16 y president’s perspective

The Missouri Western Magazine is a ­publication of the University Advancement Office for alumni and friends of Missouri Western “Everyone must leave something who have given of their time and State University and its predecessor institutions. Make an impact on Missouri behind when he dies, my grandfather said. talents to lead Missouri Western in our FALL 2014 A child or a book or a painting or a house coming Centennial Capital Campaign. Western. Make a planned or a wall built or a pair of shoes made. Their enthusiasm and passion for the Volume 12 Number 3 gift today. Or a garden planted. Something your University and for their community Editor hand touched some way so your soul has is inspiring. I am thankful for their Diane Holtz somewhere to go when you die, and when leadership and know they will have Planned (deferred) gifts can provide significant benefits Design Editor people look at that tree or that flower you a lasting impact on the legacy of to you and your loved ones now and in the future, while Kendy Jones ’94 planted, you’re there. Missouri Western and of this region offering financial support to Missouri Western. Making Director of Public relations & Marketing Mallory Murray “It doesn’t matter what you do, he (see p.16). a bequest to the Missouri Western State University Director of Alumni relations said, so long as you change something from I am touched by families like the Foundation is a thoughtful and flexible way to achieve Colleen Kowich the way it was before you touched it into James and Jean Kelley family, who PHOTOGRAPHERs your charitable and financial goals without making an Randy Edmonds something that’s like you after you take have supported the University for Gilbert Imbiri your hands away.” generations by sending their children outright gift today. Your bequest may reduce your estate Athletics Media Relations taxes and provide other benefits, as well. Ray Bradbury, “Fahrenheit 451” and grandchildren to Missouri Western and by transforming the very face of our campus through their generous Board of Governors Go to missouriwestern.giftplans.org or call Dirck Clark ’85, Chair gifts. (816) 271-5647 to learn about planned giving Greg Mason ’89, Vice Chair I am touched by our donors, opportunities and to see if they are right for you. Leo Blakley ’62, Lesley Graves, David Liechti, Al Purcell, whose passion for the University fuels Deborah Smith ’79, Lionel Attawia, Student Governor. our ability to continue transforming lives. People like Steven Craig, who Alumni Board David Slater ’82, President is actively building a legacy at the Angie Springs ’02, First Vice President University through every student who Mary Vaughan ’79, Second Vice President comes through the Craig School of Bill Wright recently notified Shelby Coxon ’99, Immediate Past President Business, and every new entrepreneur the Foundation that it is a Sheryl Bremer ’81, Joe Byer ’11, Carole Dunn ’91, Diane Hook ’90, Karree Hedden ’03, Claudia James ’85, James Jeffers ’73, that graduates from Missouri Western beneficiary in his estate plan Linda Kerner ’73, Brandy Meeks ’07, Kendell Misemer ’82, Arthur (see p. 13). Montgomery ’89, Phyllis Myers ’56, Molly Pierce ’77, Natalie of almost $500,000 to be used for Redmond ’00, Ralph Schank ’82, Tom Schneider ’64, Jennifer I am touched by alumni like Jerry scholarships for students in the Stanek ’99, Joseph Vigliaturo ’75. Lilia White ’12 , Tona Williams ’00 and student Reyhan Wilkinson. Partridge ’86, head football coach, and arts programs. Dear Friends, his son, Travis ’13 (see p. 20). Jerry’s “I was impressed by everyone I Foundation Board It seemed only fitting that we legacy has been told not just through Corky Marquart ’84, Chair celebrate some of the many legacies the successful football program he met in the arts programs. There Jason Horn ’95, Vice Chair that are being left at Missouri Western has built but also in the character of is incredible potential for the arts John Wilson, Treasurer Seth Wright, Secretary State University as we prepare to enter his players and of his son, who is now at Missouri Western,” Bill said. “I Kit (Bradley) Bowlin, Drew Brown, Eric Bruder ’93, Jim Carolus, our Centennial year in 2015. For 100 playing professional football. had the money, and it was time to start seeding it to make Pat Dillon, Jason Grayson ’98, Ed Haffey ’62, Diane Hook ’90, Jennifer Kneib-Dixon ’89, Chris Looney, Lisa Norton, Mike years, Missouri Western has been The depth of the legacies left at things grow. I hope other people will get the idea, too.” Pankau ’84, Brent Porlier ’82, Al Purcell, Tom Richmond, transforming lives, leaving a legacy in Missouri Western is truly inspiring. David Roberts, J.L. Robertson, Dennis Rosonke, LaVell Rucker ’03, Dave Shinneman, Sara Summers Stein, Jon our region. This would not be possible Thanks to all of you, whose touch has Styslinger, Tom Tewell, Robert Vartabedian, Greg VerMulm without the impact and the legacies of transformed lives, whose hands have ’89, Julie Woods ’96, Zack Workman ’74, Jerry Pickman ’85, executive director. each and every one of you. built our University, whose influence As president, I am continually builds our future. It is an honor to Missouri Western Magazine touched by the students, alumni, work beside you. 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt Hall 108 St. Joseph, MO 64507 community members and families who 816-271-5651 have left their own legacies at Missouri [email protected] missouriwestern.edu/magazine Western. I am touched by community Robert A. Vartabedian Missouri Western State University is an equal members like Dan and Dale Boulware President, opportunity institution. and Mark and Mary Margaret Laney, Missouri Western State University In this issue Campus News

On the cover Co-chairs of the Centennial Capital Campaign include

Dan and Dale Boulware and Mark and Mary Margaret Laney. Air Guard partnership expands Campus Kudos Photo by Randy Edmonds Missouri Western and the 139th MSgt. Bart Watts was the first • The research of Dr. Kristen Walton, Airlift Wing of the Missouri Air member of the 139th to enroll in the associate professor of biology, and sections features National Guard recently forged a new initiative. He is currently taking Erica Pasch ’10 was cited in an article stronger partnership to benefit both two courses, one online and one on in Parade Magazine, “Battle in Your 3 Campus News 4 Walter Cronkite Memorial: Phase II Complete Guard members and University campus, and that will complete his Belly.” The research was conducted students. Dr. Jeanne Daffron ’75, requirements for the CCAF associate as part of the University’s PORTAL The Walter Cronkite Memorial opened on campus in November 2013, and several provost and vice president for Academic degree. Watts noted that an associate program, and Pasch presented the improvements and additions were completed this past summer. 22 Sports Affairs, said Missouri Western is degree will make him eligible for results at a national conference undertaking two major initiatives promotion. when she was a student. Parade is 14 spring 2014 Commencement to provide additional educational He then plans to continue taking distributed through more than 25 alumni News For the first time in several years, spring commencement was held in Spratt Memorial opportunities for members of the 139th. classes to earn a Bachelor of General 400 newspapers throughout the Stadium. See the photos from the beautiful day and learn about Missouri Western’s In the first initiative, guard members Studies degree from Missouri Western, country with a circulation of commencement history. can now complete their Community and he found out that his military around 33 million. 30 Alumnotes College of the Air Force (CCAF) experience of almost 25 years counted 16 Community Members Lead Missouri Western associate degree by taking general for some college credits, as well. • Dr. Katie Kendig, assistant professor Missouri Western into Next Century State University education courses at Missouri Western. “This is great for military guys with a of philosophy, received the 2014 Governor’s Award for Excellence in As the University plans for its Centennial Capital They can take courses on campus or lot of experience,” he said. “They may be Teaching. She received the award at a Campaign, get to know Dan and Dale Boulware and Y a online, with more than 250 general the biggest group of people earning the education online courses offered. Bachelor of General Studies.” luncheon last spring. Mark and Mary Margaret Laney, who have agreed to nsforming of Tra Lives The second initiative is the option Details about the degree 1915-2015 • Lauren Black, graphic design serve as campaign co-chairs. to continue on to a bachelor’s degree completion programs can be found at student, was part of a team who using their CCAF associate degree or missouriwestern.edu/military. participated in the NASA Space 20 alumni Profiles other transfer credits. They can select “Education is the key to Apps Challenge at Ingenology in Read about a professional golfer, two successful football coaches, a radio show host and a a traditional bachelor’s degree or a advancement in the Air National Kansas City, Mo. retired museum director. Alumni profiles can be found on pgs. 20, 24, 27, 29 and 31. Bachelor of General Studies degree, Guard, and we’re grateful that Missouri which is specifically tailored for those Western is making these educational • The Engineering Technology 33 big Dogs on Campus who have some college credits but have opportunities available,” said Col. Ralph Advancement Committee presented Dr. Melinda Kovacs discovered a unique, furry way to relieve student stress during finals delayed their studies. Schwader ’85, Wing Commander. awards to a student and an industry week this past spring. leader at its annual awards banquet March 24. Ian Micah White, 4 construction engineering technology major, was presented with the Student Excellence Award. Donald P. Coleman, former president of Coleman Industrial Construction, received the Engineering Technology Excellence Award.

• At the Missouri College Media Association Convention this past spring, the following students earned awards: Brian Duskey, first place in Entertainment Review; Gary Smith, first place in Multimedia; and Joe Snapp, first place in Information Graphic.

22 MSgt. Bart Watts The magazine of Missouri Western State University Fall 2014 3

14 Campus News Campus News

Walter Cronkite Memorial: Phase II complete multiple occasions to narrate programs 39 historical events covered by Cronkite about space.” throughout his career. Originally, visitors Another new feature is the addition could watch Cronkite as he reported of “Cronkite,” a live multimedia the event and, for most of the events, presentation. Featuring a professional listen to his reflections about these actor, Jim Korinke, the show is an events taped several years later. A third adaptation of an interview with Walter option will be available, thanks to Dr. Cronkite by Larry King on the first Steven Greiert, professor of history and anniversary of 9-11. Video, audio and department chair. He created video, still images were added to enhance audio and images that explains the and dramatize the performance. The historical context of each event, and show, conceived and edited by Dr. its importance to 20th century Vartabedian, is held for large groups in American history. the Kemper Recital Hall next to the The memorial will receive the Memorial. Governor’s Spotlight Award at the 2014 During the interview, in addition to Governor’s Conference on Tourism in discussing 9-11, King invites Cronkite St. Louis this October. to reflect on his career and the field of For more information about journalism. the Walter Cronkite Memorial Dr. Mapley said the presentation or to schedule a group visit, call Professional actor Jim Korinke portrays Walter Cronkite in a live, multimedia presentation. The Walter Cronkite Memorial in donate Cronkite memorabilia, and is scheduled regularly and by (816) 271-4100 or visit Spratt Hall added several new features other visitors have mentioned donating appointment for large groups. “The waltercronkitememorial.org. since opening in November 2013, and items in the future, so additional display audio, video, photographic images, a sneak preview was held in June when space was needed. musical underscore and a live actor Walter “Chip” Cronkite III visited the One of the more popular displays make this a unique and very interesting Cronkite historian to speak at Convocation Memorial for the first time. among locals was the recording of presentation.” “It’s beautiful,” Cronkite said of the Cronkite’s visit to St. Joseph in 1969, The final component of Phase II is Dr. Douglas Brinkley, professor and Integrity, co- and the Mississippi Gulf Memorial. “Dad would be very pleased so that display was enhanced as part related to the main kiosk that features of history at Rice University and sponsored by Missouri Coast” was the recipient with this extraordinary exhibit.” of Phase II. Interactive photos of the prolific biographer, will be the featured Western and the of the Robert F. Kennedy One of the highlights is a beautiful individuals featured in the video, many speaker at the 21st R. Dan Boulware Media Ethics Division Book Award and a finalist bronze bust of Cronkite on a granite of whom still have local ties, were added Convocation on Critical Issues at 10 of the Association for the Los Angeles Times pedestal that was completed this past next to the kiosk that plays a recording a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4 in the Looney for Education in Book Award. “The Great summer. The artist, Eric Fuson ’88, of the event. Complex on campus. The Convocation Journalism and Mass Wilderness Warrior: instructor of art, worked with the The University recently acquired a is free and open to the public. Communication. Theodore Roosevelt and the Cronkite family in its creation, said Dr. planetarium show narrated by Cronkite. Dr. Brinkley’s book, “Cronkite,” is a Dr. Brinkley has Crusade for America” was Gordon Mapley, dean and executive Groups now have the option of visiting New York Times best-selling biography written books about the recipient of the National director of the Western Institute. It is the Bushman Planetarium in Agenstein of Walter Cronkite, who was born in former presidents Outdoor Book Award. St. Joseph. Dr. Brinkley will speak on Theodore Roosevelt, Dr. Brinkley completed slightly larger than life-size, and “it is Hall to view the show, which has a Dr. Douglas Brinkley phenomenally accurate.” brief introduction and closing by Dr. what would have been Cronkite’s 98th Franklin Roosevelt, his bachelor’s degree at Also, a second display case was Robert Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s birthday. John F. Kennedy, Jimmy The Ohio State University constructed to house Cronkite president. In addition to the Convocation, Carter and Ronald Reagan, as well as and received his doctorate in U.S. memorabilia. Since the Memorial “Walter Cronkite was an avid Dr. Brinkley will be the guest of honor presidential candidate John Kerry. Diplomatic History from Georgetown opened, Dr. Mapley said several supporter of the space program,” at a Convocation luncheon following Six of Dr. Brinkley’s books were University in 1989. individuals have stepped forward to Dr. Mapley said. “He was called upon his presentation. He will speak the selected as New York Times Notable The Convocation is sponsored by preceding day at the inaugural Walter Books of the Year. “The Great Deluge: the Missouri Western State University Above, family members of Walter Cronkite visited the Walter Cronkite Memorial in Cronkite Conference on Media Ethics Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans, Foundation. June. Walter Cronkite’s son “Chip” is to the right of the prototype of Walter Cronkite’s 4 The magazine of Missouri Western State University Fall 2014 5 bust. Right, Eric Fuson ’88, creator of the bronze bust. Campus news Campus news

Upgrades across the University “Song Goes Off” for student At its February 2014 meeting, entrance. Wilson Hall houses the By the time Deondre Ross graduates the Board of Governors accepted a academic departments of Criminal from Missouri Western next December, bid of $750,509 from Lee Grover Justice, Legal Studies and Social Work; he hopes you will know his name Construction Company of St. Joseph Engineering Technology; and Military or at least have heard his music. The for an addition to Potter Hall and Science, as well as the Law Enforcement public relations major has written and renovations to Wilson Hall and the Academy; Campus Printing and Design produced several songs and music Looney Complex. The Board had Services and Y’s Kids World. videos and is hoping to make it big in previously approved using reserve funds In the Looney Complex, the baseball the music industry. to pay for the three initiatives. locker room and men’s and women’s It all started more than a decade The largest project is a one-story visitor locker rooms were remodeled. ago, when Ross was 7 years old. He was addition to Potter Hall, which houses Looney houses Recreation Services, visiting his cousin, who was producing the School of Fine Arts. A new Griffon Athletics and the Department “weird noises” on the computer. Ross, who plays drums and piano, is people playing his song. “It’s crazy to do percussion space and restrooms, totaling of Health, Physical Education and Immediately enthralled, the child joined making inroads into the music business, something you love and have so much approximately 3,400 square feet, will Recreation. his cousin at the computer and learned growing his fan base through social influence on people.” be built, and existing restrooms will be Work on Wilson Hall and the all about computer-generated music. media and online. He has written and He readily gives credit to those renovated into office space. The project Looney Complex was completed this Later that day, Ross, from Jefferson produced songs that have become who have helped him get his music and also includes the addition of a circle past summer. City, Mo., asked his father for a great hits on YouTube, has released videos out. “I never refer to ‘I;’ my team drive in front of Potter. The total bid There were also several changes on computer and software so he could songs on iTunes that have sold well, is just as important as I am.” on the Potter Hall work was $635,692, campus regarding food services. In make music, too, and his father brought and performed in a variety of venues. Team members include Usala Still, and construction should be completed March, a new Java City opened on the a computer home the next day. “It’s working,” he says, “it’s just a slow Devin Whittler, Taylor Crouse, Ania this fall. first floor of the Blum Union adjacent “He wasn’t rich, he just believed in process.” Jamerson, Nathan Hershey and Ashlyn “This project will address some to the Kelley Commons outdoor area. me enough to do that,” Ross says. When “Song Goes Off ” was released Stevens, who is also a Missouri Western of our most pressing facility needs,” Along with its coffee options, that spot He estimates he has written on iTunes, Ross says he walked out of his student. said Dr. Bob Willenbrink, founding also offers smoothies and several “grab thousands of songs since. room in Leaverton Hall and could hear He calls his music style a crossover dean of the School of Fine Arts. “Our and go” food items. The new Java City in Blum Union. between pop, rhythm and blues, hip hop percussion students have been practicing The food court in the Blum Union and dubstep. “I hear the songs in my for years in ‘temporary’ modular units, was also remodeled this past summer, head, and the craziest part is actually so I’m happy we can provide them adding a Subway and WOK, which is a location is similar to a convenience getting them out of my head,” Ross says with permanent space, and the new stir fry option; as well as a F’Real shake store, with self-service, but it still offers with a laugh. “Every song I put together, restrooms and circle drive will be much machine. The two new restaurants are hot breakfast and lunch items. I’ve heard it in my head and was able to appreciated by the many people who replacing Quiznos and Caliente. The “It’s always good to have something get it out exactly like it sounded in my come to Potter Hall for performances deli in Popplewell was also renovated new and different,” DeWalt said. “These head.” and exhibits.” and reopened this fall. Kathy DeWalt, changes will help fill some desires that Deondre Ross. You heard it here The Wilson Hall project included ARAMARK manager, said that we weren’t meeting.” first. the renovation of restrooms on the first Missouri Western and second floors, repairs and upgrades State University “I’ve been at Missouri Western for 33 years, as a student and to the HVAC system, and repairs to staff member, and I’ve enjoyed every second of it. If I could the exterior masonry and southeastern only give a portion of the knowledge and the commitment Y a that my professors, my coaches and staff members gave to Jump Rope for Heart me when I was a student, then I feel like I’ve given back what Missouri Western hosts Jump Rope for Heart every ansforming L they’ve given to me.” of Tr ives year, when hundreds of elementary school students 1915-2015 - Wonda Berry, ’84, Director of Recreation Services raise money for the American Heart Association in the Looney Complex.

6 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 7

Campus News Campus News

Three new master’s degrees offered Communicators present at international conferences Missouri Western has been For more information, visit Master of Science in Nursing Health Daniel Cobb believes his resumè the public relations students went to London and Rome. “I think everyone approved for three new graduate missouriwestern.edu/graduate or call Care Leadership/Nurse Educator got a real boost when he presented Malta for theirs. Other destinations should travel outside their own country degree programs. A Master of Applied Dr. Jason Baker at (816) 271-4380. Offering a Nurse Educator option his research at a conference in May along the way included Venice; Rome; for the cultural experience. It was a great Science, Industrial Life Science started in the graduate program is an effort to 2014. He and other Missouri Western Mendrisio, Switzerland; and Dublin; experience, and I’d love to do it again.” in spring 2014 and a Masters in Masters in Information Management, address the projected nursing shortage, students were depending on the group. Stephen Solomon, a public relations Information Management, Enterprise Enterprise Resource Planning not just regionally, but nationally, some of the few “The highlight for me was seeing my major, said London was the highlight of Resource Planning began this fall. The Masters in Information according to Dr. Carolyn Brose, MSN undergraduate students present at conferences, seeing the trip for him, also. “We got to see the The Master of Science in Nursing Management, Enterprise Resource program director. groups selected the fruition of their work,” Dr. Bergland most famous ‘tourist’ sites and had a little Healthcare Leadership added a new Planning is the first graduate degree “We have to be sure we are building to present at an said. “The quality of their presentations time to relax,” he said. option and graduate certificate: Nurse program for the Craig School of a pipeline of nurses to meet the health international and the quality of their research were on Dr. Bergland said he was happy Educator. Those were also offered for Business. care needs of the nation,” she said. “It is conference in par with the other presentations at the that his students embraced the foreign the first time this fall. Enterprise resource planning, or important that we work to sustain and Athens, Greece. conferences.” travel and got as much out of the trip ERP, systems are comprehensive data build a workforce for nursing.” They were “The entire process – from planning, as they could. “I was really proud of Master of Applied Science, management tools used by a variety of The Department of Nursing and part of a group traveling, sightseeing and presenting my students every step of the way: Industrial Life Science businesses and organizations. The new Allied Health began offering a master’s of six convergent at conferences – was an outstanding researching, presenting and embracing The new industrial life science program is intended to prepare graduates program with a Leadership option and media majors experience,” said Dr. Bond. “The the opportunities. They really wanted degree, like all Master of Applied to work in an ERP environment with a graduated the first class in spring 2013. and 16 public program provided a unique opportunity to experience the different cultures and Science degrees at Missouri sophisticated understanding of business The Nurse Educator is the second option relations majors to see far-away places that we have history.” Western, consists of both discipline- processes, and methods of implementing in the program. who traveled only heard about while connecting “Being able to present there was specific academic training as well best practices in organizations. The option offers courses specific throughout and building relationships with fellow fantastic,” Cobb said of the Athens as cross-training in business and Dr. Mike Lane, dean of the Craig to education, such as curriculum Europe last May, students and faculty. One student conference. “It’s a wonderful thing to put communications. The program provides School of Business, believes the program development, teaching strategies and where Missouri summed it up best by calling our study on my resumè that I presented overseas.” advanced training in biology and will fill a great need in the business evaluation strategies, Dr. Brose said, and Western students abroad a ‘European extravaganza.’” “I loved it,” Solomon said. “It was a chemistry while developing workplace community. Several companies in St. is aimed at those with a bachelor’s or presented at Cobb, a convergent media major, great opportunity to see several countries, skills valued by employers, said Dr. Ben Joseph and the Kansas City area utilize master’s degree in nursing who want to conferences in said highlights for him were probably and I want to study abroad again.” Caldwell, dean of the Graduate School. SAP enterprise software as their ERP teach. Athens, Malta, The degree is an option for current system, and graduates will be prepared The master’s option is 32 credit and Dubrovnik, biologists and chemists seeking career to contribute to these companies upon hours. It includes core courses, such Croatia. Dr. advancement, as well as recent science graduation. as foundation of leadership, statistics, Robert Bergland, graduates looking for a competitive “Graduates should be able to cross informatics and research, along with 15 professor of edge as they enter the workforce. Most over platforms fairly easily to other ERP hours of education-centered courses. journalism, courses are scheduled after 4:30 p.m. systems if necessary,” Dr. Lane said. “The The graduate certificate is the 15 credit accompanied the St. Joseph is a part of the Animal business process skills taught in this hours of education-centered courses only. convergent media Health Corridor, the single largest program are universal.” Students have the opportunity to earn students and concentration of animal health Students will have an option to take the certificate and seamlessly continue Dr. Christopher businesses in the world. Companies in an SAP certification test as part of the with the master’s degree. Bond, associate the region stretching from Manhattan, program. For more information, see professor of Kan., to Columbia, Mo., are responsible For more information, call (816) missouriwestern.edu/graduate or call communication, for about one-third of the $19 billion 271-4338 or visit missouriwestern.edu/ (816) 271-4415. accompanied global animal health market. According graduate. the public relations students. Several to a recent survey by the Kansas City of the students received funds from Area Life Sciences Institute, nearly Missouri Western the Missouri Western State University 80 percent of the 240 life science State University “Missouri Western is transforming lives because it has Foundation’s Student Excellence Fund, companies in the Animal Health stayed engaged, not only with what is happening today, but which supports student presentations at Corridor plan to expand in the next it has shown its ability to look ahead to the future.” conferences. Y a - Esther George ’80, President, The 41st annual weeklong Lifetime Sports Academy drew more than three years. The two groups of students traveled Lifetime Sports Academy Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City 100 youth to campus this summer. Physical education and recreation majors enjoy the opportunity to help nsforming together to Athens and London until of Tra Lives with the event each year. 1915-2015 the convergent media students headed to their conference in Dubrovnik and 8 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 9

Campus News Campus News

Missouri Western helps commemorate historical centennial Ritter ’02 works for awareness on campus In May 2013, Missouri Western When Mike Ritter ’02 goes out to eat The center started when it was added that is just about perfect.” students performed “American Story,” at a restaurant, shops in a retail store or to the responsibilities of Ellen Kisker in And the greatest challenge? A a musical retelling of the Ludlow walks across campus, he notices things 1989, and six students asked for help that campus that was constructed long before Massacre, in Trinidad, Colo. They that many of us do not. He pays close first year. Kisker managed the program people really began thinking about were invited back this year by the attention to features like parking spaces, until Lois Fox was hired and the position accessibility. But he is confident that Ludlow Centennial Commemoration curbing, doorways and restrooms. Ritter, was made full-time. Ritter worked for the ARC will meet the challenges and Commission to take part in the the coordinator of the Accessibility Fox when he was a student, and became appreciates the support of Shana Meyer, centennial commemoration of that Resource Center (ARC), can’t help it; the coordinator when she retired in 2004. vice president for Student Affairs, and event, a pivotal moment in American looking out for those types of things Today, it is not uncommon for more than staff members. labor history. has been part of his career for the last 200 students per semester to request “The students are the greatest success The Ludlow Massacre occurred 15 years. services through the ARC. stories,” Ritter says. “If you could only April 20, 1914 when the Colorado state “Once you work with people with A trip across campus reveals accessible know how hard many of them have militia attacked and burned a tent city disabilities for any amount of time, you sidewalks and parking spaces, resting had to work to overcome seemingly housing striking mine workers who had really develop a new way of looking at benches and automatic doors, and a new insurmountable challenges, you would been evicted from their company-owned the world, and, as a result, you begin sidewalk connecting the campus to the simply be amazed. Their success is my homes. As many as 25 people died, to see things through the filter of Missouri Department of Conservation greatest reward.” including two women and 11 children. accessibility,” Ritter said. building, all improvements over the past “The performance of ‘American His office, he says, “strives to create 25 years. Also, the adaptive technology Tree house for Story’ by the students from Missouri an educational environment that takes area has greatly expanded in that time, Western State University was one of the into consideration a very diverse group with more equipment available to everyone is a reality highlights of the Ludlow Centennial of learners. We remove the barriers and students with disabilities and a full-time provide the opportunities, but success technician working with them. About three years ago, Mike Ritter “I was pleasantly surprised still rests very much on the shoulders of But the greatest change, Ritter says, ’02, coordinator for the Accessibility these students.” has been the willingness of instructors Resource Center on campus, had an by the large amount of people Ritter is marking the 25th to embrace a diverse group of learners. idea for an amazing tree house – a tree anniversary of his office on campus this “When a teacher becomes inspired to house for everyone, no matter their who were captivated by the year, and and he recently reflected on teach in new and different ways so that ability. After a lot of work and support show. The audience was very its history. every student has an opportunity to learn, from all quarters of the community, Missouri Western music students, along with Dr. Susan Carter, front left; and Dr. Laurel Vartabedian, back second especially from the Parks and Recreation Department in St. Joseph, his idea is pleased to see us telling from right; at the Ludlow Massacre memorial in Colorado. Spring Break service coming to fruition. their story.” Students spent their spring break helping out in New Orleans as part of the Barbara Sprong Leadership The Tree House for Everyone was this, and they were with us through the The performance was under an open Challenge. Pictured are Tiffany Butler and Alia Sheya in the front, and Kassie Kreissler, Sam McClary, Janica built this past summer at Bartlett Park. - Junior music major Jacob Mills whole show,” she said. tent, and Mills said the audience kept Lowry and Tobias Pointer in the back. “To say that I am excited about The students arrived for the growing with every song they performed. seeing the Tree House completed is performance in costume several minutes Along with Mills and Waters, the an understatement. I have imagined Commemoration,” said Cecil Roberts, before their stage time. “Going there, performers included students Lauren a thousand times the look on people’s president of the United Mine Workers I was thinking, ‘Will they know who I Bergman, Kaitlyn Christian, Caleb faces as they discover that everyone, of America. am?’” Waters said. “I took two steps into Hazelwood, Jeremy Howe, Donovan regardless of age or ability, can enjoy the Music major Sarah Waters, who the crowd, and everyone began yelling, Jones, community member Dee Dee tree house experience,” Ritter said. played community activist Mother ‘Mother Jones! Mother Jones!’ and they Squires and Adrienne Collins ’14. “Unfortunately, we cannot undo the Jones, was part of the cast both years. wanted their picture taken with me.” Dr. Susan Carter, director of vocal effects of disability or stop the aging Some of her lines were direct quotations Junior music major Jacob Mills was studies, joined them on the trip, as did process by simply building a tree house. from Jones, and Waters noticed the one of three new cast members this year. Dr. Laurel Vartabedian, who wrote the But, what we hope to do is improve audience saying many of the words “I was pleasantly surprised by the large book and lyrics for “American Story.” the quality of life for everyone in our along with her throughout the play. amount of people who were captivated “The people you met and the stories community. And we think that makes “This was the perfect audience for by the show. The audience was very you heard made it a great experience,” the Tree House for Everyone a very the production. They have a history with pleased to see us telling their story.” Waters said. worthwhile endeavor.”

10 www.missouriwestern.edu 11 Campus News Campus News

Western Playhouse provides summer entertainment Entrepreneurship program grows and thrives

Missouri Western’s summer of more than 200 national The Craig School of Business theatre program, Western Playhouse, and international shows announced in May that four new performed “Music Man” and “Mother submitted. entrepreneurs will have the opportunity Divine” for large audiences. Father Divine was played to own and operate their own businesses “Music Man,” which ran in June, by Randy Davis, who has as part of the CSB’s entrepreneurship won five Tony Awards, including Best performed on Broadway program, continuing the legacy of Steve Musical, when it debuted on Broadway and with many national and Craig’s gift to the University in 2008. in 1957. It is one of the most beloved international tours. Mother Zachary Brelsford ’14 was awarded an musicals ever produced. Dallas Henry, Divine was played by Betti Aspen Leaf Yogurt in San Antonio, assistant professor of theatre and O., who was a national Texas; Amanda Keeling ’12 was awarded cinema, played the lead role of Harold winner on Showtime a Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Hill. The play was directed by Tee at the Apollo. She has in Oak View Mall in Omaha, Neb.; Quillin, assistant professor of theatre performed nationally and Caleb Mackey was awarded an RMCF and cinema. Mark Pennington was internationally. in Silverthorne, Colo.; and Melanie music director. The cast included Ware ’14 was awarded an RMCF in The cast also included students students Lauren Bergman, Naperville, Ill. Missouri Western’s four newest entrepreneurs include Zachary Brelsford, Amanda Keeling, Melanie Ware and Riley Bayer, Lauren Bergman, Erik Thomas Delgado, Amanda Four is the greatest number of stores Caleb Mackey. Burns-Sprung, Caleb Hazelwood, Estep and Jacob Mills, and awarded at one time since the program Nerissa Lee, Jacob Mills, Sebastian Derek Thompson ’14. began in 2009. With the addition of this Mackey, from Frisco, Colo., is not The program has been very Smith, and Derek Thompson ’14. The play was directed latest class, 19 have been awarded stores an alumnus. He had been a business successful. Six Missouri Western owners “Mother Divine,” written by by Dr. Robert Willenbrink, in 13 states. associate at Wells Fargo Bank and part- have been awarded Rocky Mountain’s Dr. Laurel Vartabedian, was performed founding dean of the “We had an outstanding class of time employee at the Rocky Mountain “Rookie of the Year” awards. At the in July. It was one of 10 shows selected School of Fine Arts, and finalists, and a very strong group,” said Chocolate Factory owned by Seth ’08 2013 awards ceremony, Leslie Oberg for the New York Musical Theatre the musical director was Craig, Missouri Western benefactor and and Kelsey ’08 Lyons in Silverthorne, ’11 and James Burris, owners of the St. Festival’s 2013 Next Link Project out New York-based Colin one of the judges for the competition. Colo. since 2011. He purchased that Joseph stores, received the Customer The top two photos are from “Mother Divine,” the Welford. “Missouri Western faculty and staff did a store from the Lyons. Service Award. Additionally, every store bottom two from “Music Man.” great job preparing this group.” Dr. Mike Lane, dean of the Craig owned by a Missouri Western graduate The four winners were among the School of Business, said when Mackey increased sales over the past year. students in the senior-level applied requested to take the class, a local The store in Lehi, Utah, owned by entrepreneurship course this past spring. committee reviewed his application, an Allie Humphrey ’11 and her business They created business plans for a store interview was held, and he was allowed partner, Matt Canaday ’08, was named and presented their plans to an interview to participate in the program. the 2012 Small Business of the Year by panel made up of Craig, Missouri “Once in a while, we make an the Lehi Chamber of Commerce, and Western graduates who had won exception for candidates who want to the store in Vicksburg, Miss., owned franchises in previous years, Missouri participate, whose credentials are strong, by Brady ’10 and TyAnn ’10 Ellis was Western faculty members, and other and whose references are very positive,” named the 2013 Small Business of the business leaders and representatives from Dr. Lane said. Year by the Vicksburg Chamber of RMCF, including company founder and Commerce. president Frank Crail. Missouri Western For the Rocky Mountain and Aspen State University Leaf stores, RMCF provides initial “Missouri Western is a resource to the community — its facilities, faculty, staff and students. We are here for capital for the stores, which the alumni the community to come ask us what they need. In my pay back over five years. To date, five Y a experience, we find a way to give back to the community.” owners have paid off their stores, all - Dr. Brian Cronk, Department of Psychology Chair nsforming within less than three years. of Tra Lives 1915-2015

12 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 13

Campus News Campus News

Centennial Notes: Commencement New commencement Spring 2014 traditions in 2014 For the first time in more than formed in 1969, and it hosted the Commencement 30 years, Missouri Western’s spring first commencement breakfast for Three new traditions were part of the commencement ceremony was held the graduates in 1970. (That tradition spring 2014 commencement ceremony in Spratt Memorial Stadium. As the continued for more than 30 years.) in Spratt Memorial Stadium: University approaches its centennial Also, students were led in a procession year, 2015, we take a look back at from the Popplewell Administration • March to Commencement. significant commencement events Building to the stage by the new- Students were led by the Griffon throughout our history. term student body president Dwight Corps, a musical escort, from the The first commencement for the Scroggins ’76, and vice president Jim Griffon Indoor Sports Complex to St. Joseph Junior College was held in Glidewell ’71. the Spratt Stadium field. 1917, and eight women and two men By the next year, 1971, the Looney • Phi Sigma Kappa cannon. At home received diplomas. Information is sparse Complex (then known as the HPER football games, members of Phi as to where the ceremonies were held building) was completed, and the Sigma Kappa fraternity fire “The before the junior college moved to 10th commencement was held in the new General” after every Griffon score. and Edmond in St. Joseph in 1933. gym. However, students still processed The cannon was fired at the end of That building contained an auditorium/ from Popplewell. the 2014 spring commencement gymnasium where commencement The annual ceremony was held in ceremony. ceremonies were held until the the Looney gym until 1979, when it • Griffon for Luck. It is said that college moved to its new campus. No moved back outside. That year, Spratt those who ask for the mighty commencement was held in spring Memorial Stadium had just been Griffon’s protection will be watched 1969. completed. It was again held in the over on their quest for education. The first commencement ceremony stadium in 1980, but by 1981, the When prospective students first on the new campus was held on a new addition to the Looney Complex come to Missouri Western, they are stage south of the Hearnes Center was completed, and the ceremony told they can ask for the Griffon’s (then known as the Hearnes Learning moved to the new fieldhouse. The protection by rubbing the head of Resource Center). It was held in commencements continued there the Griffon statue in the Office of spring 1970 for 45 graduates, and U.S. until this past May. Admissions. During commencement, Sen. Stuart Symington delivered the Because of growing enrollment, that same statue was on the field so commencement address. According a winter commencement ceremony students could leave the University to the 1970 Griffon Yearbook, “he was added in 1998, and, in 2002, a as they came in; with one last request spoke on the topic of pollution … the second spring ceremony was added and for protection and luck on their challenges it imposed for youth today.” continued until the 2014 ceremony. next quest. Thunderclouds loomed throughout the Winter commencement ceremonies ceremony, but the rain held off until will continue to be held in the Looney after the event. Complex arena. Several new traditions began that year. An Alumni Association Centennial website live Missouri Western’s centennial website is now live at missouriwestern.edu/centennial. Visit it for historical information, video vignettes, a calendar of events and more. You may also nominate someone as a Centennial Notable or share a memory.

14 www.missouriwestern.edu Community members lead Missouri Western into the our community Missouri Western and importance of investing in Mary Margaret Laney was born leaders have agreed to State University Missouri Western’s future. We will and raised in Little Rock, Ark. Shortly next century Fserve as chairs of the be involving students, faculty and after high school, she went to work at comprehensive capital campaign staff, alumni and our strongest the University of Arkansas Medical that will be part of Missouri supporters to assist us with the Center. Mary Margaret is a graduate of Western’s centennial in 2015: R. preparation activities needed to the Baptist System School of Nursing Dan and Dale Boulware and Dr. Y a successfully launch the Centennial in Little Rock and is a registered nurse. Mark and Mary Margaret Laney. Capital Campaign and address the After a brief stint in the ICU at Baptist “As we prepare to celebrate University’s needs.” Hospital, she transferred to Arkansas nsforming 100 years of transforming lives of Tra Lives Dale Boulware was born and Children’s Hospital. Mark and Mary and carry that legacy into the 1915-2015 raised in New Albany, Miss., and Margaret are members of the Missouri future, we’re thrilled that Dan, graduated from the University of Western Arts Society, and Mary Dale, Mark and Mary Margaret Memphis with a Bachelor of Science Margaret serves on the Society’s Board of have agreed at this stage in the planning process to in Elementary Education. Since moving to St. Joseph Directors. She is also a Missouri Western provide leadership for the Centennial Capital Campaign,” in 1981, Dale has played an active civic role, serving in Ambassador. said Jerry Pickman ’85, vice president for University various volunteer leadership capacities for the United Way, “I think a community is blessed to Advancement and executive director of the Missouri Junior League of St. Joseph, the YMCA, the St. Joseph have a university in their city,” she said. Western State University Foundation. Safety Council and other organizations. Dale has served “The students add a flavor to the city Prior to launching the public phase of the campaign the University as past president of the Missouri Western that is appealing. The athletic activities, next year, Missouri Western is securing volunteer Ambassadors. The Boulwares are members of both the theatre productions, musical concerts, art leadership and further defining campaign goals. Missouri Western State University League for Excellence shows, and other events provide high- R. Dan Boulware is a partner in the national law and the Missouri Western Arts Society. caliber entertainment for the community. firm of Polsinelli and chair of the firm’s contingency Dr. Mark Laney has been president and CEO I look forward to helping raise awareness fee practice. A fellow in the American College of Trial of Heartland Health/Mosaic Life Care since 2009. of all Missouri Western has to offer Lawyers, Dan is recognized by his peers as being among Previously, Mark served for 20 years at Cook Children’s and to continue to build relationships the top 1 percent of all trial attorneys in the country, and Health Care System, including eight years as the that will gain the needed funds for this is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and president of the Cook Children’s Physician Network. campaign.” numerous federal and state courts. He received both his He serves on many boards, including the Mayo Clinic “As leaders in the St. Joseph bachelor’s and law degrees from the University of Kansas. Alumni Association, Institute for Industrial and Applied community, the Boulwares and Laneys Dan has been actively engaged in the community and is Life Sciences, the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce, share a great passion for the future of a tireless supporter of Missouri Western. He is a former Community Alliance of St. Joseph, Success by 6 and the our community and recognize the role president of the University’s governing board and received Missouri Hospital Association, where he is past president. Missouri Western plays in the region’s an honorary degree from Missouri Western in 2012. The Mark earned a bachelor’s degree from the University prosperity and continued economic R. Dan Boulware Convocation on Critical Issues, which of North Texas in Denton and a Doctor of Medicine from growth,” Pickman said. “I am truly brings nationally prominent speakers to campus each fall, the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He grateful to partner with such wonderful is named in his honor. also completed a Pediatric Neurology Fellowship at Mayo advocates of our University.” “Missouri Western has served this community with Clinic and received a Master of Science degree in medical Front, Dale Boulware and excellence for almost 100 years,” he said. “In turn, it management at the University of Texas at Dallas and the Mary Margaret Laney; is my hope that the community recognizes the need University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas. back, R. Dan Boulware and Mark Laney.

16 www.missouriwestern.edu Camcampus News Camcampus News

Founding dean joins President’s Centennial Circle University embarks on New Craig School of As the founding dean of the School didn’t take him very long to realize that Western State University Foundation, Business scholarship of Fine Arts, Dr. Robert Willenbrink is “not only could I make a difference in noted that as Missouri Western begins master planning Last spring, the Missouri Western already making a difference in the lives my job as founding dean, but that a to prepare for a Centennial Capital State University Foundation was of students. But he and his wife wanted financial contribution would make a Campaign, high participation from Missouri Western began a steering committee. She noted that the notified that it was a beneficiary of to make an even greater difference. substantial difference to the students.” employees sends a strong message to comprehensive master planning University has had master planning the estate of Robert (Robbie) Sharp, With a pledged gift of $100,000, “I am inspired by Missouri Western’s other donors. initiative this past summer, and a report initiatives in the past for housing and a 1974 graduate with a Bachelor of Dr. Willenbrink and his wife, Susie, mission,” he said. “I believe in the “The dollar amount of a personal is scheduled to be available next spring. facility usage, but the last master plan Science in Business Administration, joined the recently established University and its programs as much gift from faculty and staff members is “As we look back and celebrate our for the entire campus was in 1967, Accounting. The Foundation President’s Centennial Circle, founded as they believed in me when they hired not what matters the most,” he said. “As past 100 years in 2015, it is important shortly after the property was purchased received $75,000 and will receive by Drs. Robert and Laurel Vartabedian. me.” we begin to contact major prospective that we plan ahead for Missouri for the new campus that opened in approximately another $15,000 in the “The Willenbrinks’ gift is sincerely Dr. Willenbrink said he is most donors, like foundations and Western’s second century,” said 1969. future. appreciated, and their generosity interested in the capital campaign corporations, they need confirmation Jerry Pickman ’85, vice president for “It’s important for us to make sure The donation is designated for helps us with our Centennial Capital components that benefit the arts of support from employees as evidence University Advancement and executive that we have the physical structure to scholarships in the Craig School Campaign efforts,” said Dr. Robert facilities, because the arts programs – that they should invest in Missouri director of the Missouri Western State support student needs into the future,” of Business. Sharp wanted to help Vartabedian, Missouri Western’s art, music, theatre, cinema and dance Western’s mission.” University Foundation. Pickman guided Pearce said. “The process will be provide for educational expenses president. “We are grateful for their – are in great need of more space. And, Dr. Willenbrink hopes the gift will the process of selecting the architectural thoughtful and very strategic.” of students in the CSB, especially support and commitment to Missouri he noted, because of the strong impact inspire his fellow employees to reach firm Clark-Huesemann of Lawrence, A master plan is especially important, accounting majors. Western.” of the arts on this region. The Arts 75 percent participation. Kan., for development of the master Pearce said, since a long-term land lease Sharp retired from the accounting Dr. Willenbrink said the gift is a way and Economic Prosperity IV study, Pickman noted that there are many plan. bill was signed by Gov. Jay Nixon in July. department of the U.S. Department of of expressing their deep commitment conducted by Americans for the Arts, ways to give substantial gifts to the He said the plan will establish a Previously, state law included a sunset Labor in Kansas City, Mo. to the University’s programs and found that more than $10.8 million University besides an outright cash gift. framework for physical growth over the clause which prevented most universities students. “I believe the capital campaign was invested in the arts in Buchanan If anyone is interested in learning about next 10 years, and will help guide the from leasing their land beyond 2017. is important to the future of Missouri County in 2010 alone, supporting the the variety of giving avenues, they can University’s decisions regarding new The new law opens up opportunities to Western and to our region.” equivalent of 489 full-time jobs. contact the Foundation at (816) 271- construction and renovation, traffic enter into long-term leases on campus.

Although Dr. Willenbrink had Jerry Pickman ’85, vice president 5647. patterns, accessibility, environmental “A master plan will help insure that only been at the University less than a for University Advancement and the stewardship, parking, land development, any of these leases are compatible with year when he made the gift, he said it executive director of the Missouri and classroom and space utilization. our overall mission and possible future Ann Pearce, special assistant to the needs,” she said. Missouri Western merchandise sales increase president, is heading a master plan

Sales of officially licensed added Missouri Western merchandise. and window clings. More than 100 Discover Science merchandise featuring Missouri Athletic successes, including three businesses are participating, and more A weeklong Discover Science Summer Western have risen about 35 percent in conference championships in three are signing up all the time. Students, Day Camp for high school students the last two years, setting a record for sports in recent years, have contributed faculty, staff and community members was held on campus in June. It featured retail sales and royalties earned in the to the growing merchandise sales, are encouraged to “Paint it Gold” creative hands-on lab experiments in the fields of biochemistry and molecular fiscal year that ended June 30. Murray said. each Friday, and the Office of Public biology. The camp was funded by Retail sales of licensed merchandise She also credits the “Paint it Gold” Relations and Marketing gives prizes Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc., totaled $365,000 in fiscal year 2014, community support campaign, which to random people spotted wearing and students received a “behind-the- compared to $305,750 in 2013 and provided local businesses with free Missouri Western clothing. Businesses scenes” tour of its St. Joseph facility. $271,250 in 2012. tools to display their pride in Missouri interested in participating at no charge The Rally House locations in Western, including flags, buttons can call Murray at 816-271-5649. St. Joseph, north Kansas City and Missouri Western Independence are the biggest reason State University for the increase, said Mallory Murray, “I really enjoy working with my faculty members and staff director of the Office of Public and administration, but for me, working with students is the Relations and Marketing. In addition, Y a most important part of my job.” - Dr. Todd Eckdahl, Department of Biology Chair Apple Market of St. Joseph has recently nsforming of Tra Lives 1915-2015 18 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 19

Jerry Partridge ’86: A coaching legacy Gift benefits student athletes Zack ’74 and Mary ’76 Workman “I wish we had 1,000 people like As a child, Head Football Coach (Michael Hill). Partridge has also Partridge’s recently made a pledge over the next them,” McGuffin said. “It’s not just Jerry Partridge ’86 spent many a day on coached three MIAA Freshman of the football legacy five years to the Missouri Western State the monetary support, its the time the sidelines of the Ruskin (Mo.) High Year award recipients (Mike Jordan, continued when University Foundation to support the volunteering and supporting us through School football field, watching and Drew Newhart and Roger Allen) and his son, Travis development of an academic resource good and bad.” learning from his dad, the head coach, coached the school’s all-time leader in ’13, joined room in the Griffon Indoor Sports Mary and Zack, who was a Griffon and dreaming of the day he’d have his passing (Drew Newhart), tackles (Eric the Missouri Complex. football player, own Lawns Unlimited, own team to coach. Walker), sacks (David Bass), tackles Western squad Initial plans include converting a Inc. in Cameron, Mo., and Mary is a That dream came true when for a loss (David Bass), rushing yards in 2010, and break-out room to a study room with retired teacher. Partridge was tabbed as Missouri (Michael Hill) and rushing attempts Dad had the computers and a place for mentors McGuffin said the department’s Western’s head coach in 1997, his first (Michael Hill). opportunity to to work with student athletes. More increased efforts to mentor and tutor head coaching position. He has coached more than 240 All- coach his son. equipment and computers will be added student athletes in the past two years In his almost two decades in the MIAA picks, 25 All-Americans and Travis was each year. has paid off. The fall 2013 and spring position, he has made a name for a national Harlon Hill Award finalist. born while “The new student center will give 2014 grade point averages for the Missouri Western, and his coaching The Griffon coach set the single-season Partridge was the student athletes a place to call home approximately 275 student athletes legacy is all over the Griffon record school record for wins with 12 and has at Austin Peay where they have access to support, were the highest on record for Missouri books. Partridge became Missouri won nine games or more in seven out State University guidance and technology that will allow Western, and the retention rate Western’s all-time wins leader in 2006, of the last 10 years. Under his guidance, in Tennessee. them to perform at the highest level increased 12 percent to 66 percent from the Griffons have made the NCAA “His birth was on and off the field,” Zack said. “Study the 2012-13 academic year, also the Playoff four times, which included the only shining habits, researching topics of interest and highest on record. hosting for the first time in the school’s moment in the communication skills are a must if they “This room will only help us to history in 2011. In 2012, the Griffons 0-11 season,” he are going to be successful.” improve,” McGuffin said. advanced to the quarterfinals of the Jerry Partridge ’86 says with a laugh. Kurt McGuffin, director of “The experience Mary and I NCAA tournament. Four of his players He became head coach at Missouri Athletics, said he has been wanting a obtained at Missouri Western provided are currently playing in the National In his first season on the football Western the next season, and, “just like centralized location for student athletes us with more than we ever realized Football League. team, the Griffons went 8-2 and were me with my dad,” Travis could always to study and work with tutors and when we graduated,” Zack said. “We “The number-one goal is not to ranked fourth in the nation. (The only be found on the sidelines of Spratt mentors, and he is pleased that the received a great educational experience win games. It is leading your men to other times the team was ranked that Stadium. Workmans have agreed to fund it. and connections that have lasted a be goal-oriented and better human high were in 2012 and 2013, when Coaching his son is something lifetime. Now it is our time to give beings,” Partridge said. “Some of my Partridge was coaching.) Partridge will always cherish. “It was back.” players feel that everything I did as a “College was fun. I’d definitely turn tough at times, but I wouldn’t trade coach improved them. My goal is for all back the clock and do it again,” he the experience for anything,” he says. of them to feel that way.” says. “The teachers knew your name “We’ll always have those tremendous A graduate assistant coach under and remembered you. Today, when moments that can never be taken Lou Holtz at University of Notre I see (Charles) Erickson or ( Jim) away.” Dame, Partridge says he tries to live by Grechus, it’s always a good day.” He Partridge doesn’t have to think Holtz’s words of wisdom: “Praise loudly also has special memories of his college about it when someone asks him to and criticize softly.” days because he met his wife, Pam, at recall the greatest moment of his “Kids aren’t going to care how Missouri Western. coaching career: when Travis went and he ranks third on the MIAA all- much you know until they know how After graduation, Partridge spent over the goal line to beat Northwest time list. He has been named the MIAA much you care,” Partridge says. several seasons on coaching staffs at Missouri State University and win the Coach of the Year twice. When he came to Missouri Western three Division I universities and had a conference championship in 2012. His career at Missouri Western has in 1981 as a student athlete, his first five-year stint as defensive coordinator This fall, he again stepped onto the produced an MIAA Player of the Year impression was the small trees all over at Missouri Western. He earned a field with his team, continuing his ( Jerris Evans), MIAA Special Teams campus, but he was also impressed with master’s degree in sports administration Griffon football legacy for the 18th Player of the Year (Greg Zuerlein) and Spratt Memorial Stadium. It had just from the University of Missouri. season. MIAA Offensive Player of the Year opened in 1979, and Partridge said the “I love being involved with the The Griffon Indoor Sports Complex will house an academic resource room for student athletes, thanks to a “grass on the field was tremendous.” kids,” Partridge says. “It’s fun to watch generous gift from Zack ‘74 and Mary ‘76 Workman. them be successful.” 20 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 21

Griffon sports Griffon sports

Softball wins first-ever MIAA Baseball reaches Get involved in Griffon Athletics! MIAA Tournament Love the Griffons? The Athletics e-newsletter and much more. Tournament Championship Department has a variety of ways you Join at gogriffons.com or call finals in 2014 can get involved and support them: (816) 271-5926. 1. Join the Gold Coat Victory Fund, 3. Join the Legacy Club for The baseball team, coached by Buzz which provides needed funding to letterwinners at Missouri Western. Verduzco, overcame a slow and injury- keep our programs among the most Any student athlete who completed filled start to catch fire and enter a competitive in NCAA Division II. one year in an intercollegiate varsity stretch run that concluded in the finals By joining the Gold Coat Victory sport at Missouri Western is eligible. of the MIAA Baseball Tournament Fund, you’ll also have access to Membership dues are $100 per year Championship in Springfield, Mo. The season tickets to Griffon sports, and include one season ticket to all Griffons fell short in the final game preferred parking opportunities, regular-season home games. Join against Emporia State, but finished access to improved club areas at online at gogriffons.com or call 2014 with a 32-20 record. This was a home football and basketball games, (816) 271-5926. strong finish considering the team was football sideline passes, fitness center 4. Paint it Gold. We encourage 8-10 at one point. access, social invitations and much First-year outfielder Ryan Degner Travis Partridge ’13 and Jackie Bishop everyone to wear Griffon gear every more. For more information, call Friday. During football season, The softball team made history Bishop was named First-Team All led the Griffons offensively with a Brett Esely at (816) 271-4481, email tweet us your best picture or post in 2014 by winning the MIAA American by the National Fast Pitch .383 average and was named a Third- Student athletes [email protected] or visit on Facebook and you could win gift tournament title, beating the Coaches Association (NFCA), Second- Team All-American by the American gogriffons.com. cards and other prizes from Griffon Northeastern Oklahoma RiverHawks Team All-American by Daktronics, Baseball Coaches Association. Degner honored 2. Join Club MAX, the official kids corporate partners. Shop for Griffon 12-0. The Griffons also made and Central Region Pitcher of the Year. led the Griffons in almost all offensive club for the 12 and under crowd. For gear at gogriffons.com, click on their seventh NCAA Tournament She was also named MIAA Freshman categories, hitting a team high (.383) The Missouri Western Department only $10 a year, Club MAX members Team Store. appearance and finished the season of the Year in 2011. and finishing the season getting a hit of Athletics, in conjunction with the receive a club t-shirt, a membership with a 39-18 record. Tiffany Gillaspy was a First-Team in 11 of his last 12 games. He led the St. Joseph News-Press, celebrated the 5. Cheer for our teams. Check card that allows them free admission The 2014 season also marked the All-MIAA selection for the first time team in hits (74), runs scored (46), success of its student athletes both out gogriffons.com for all sports to all home football and basketball end of the line for the most dominant in her career. Gillaspy got a hit in doubles (16), total bases (124), slugging on and off of the field as part of the schedules, and we’ll see you at the games, opportunities to interact with pitcher in program history. Jackie 23 of her last 25 games and had a percentage (.642), on base percentage 15th annual Missouri Western State game! Griffon student athletes, Club MAX Bishop completed her senior season 19-game hitting streak during that (.448), stolen bases (19) and RBI (49). University/St. Joseph News-Press with a 26-10 record and holds Missouri run. She also hit safely in 45 of the He had a hit in 41 of the Griffons’ Student Athlete Honors Banquet Western softball career records for Griffons’ 57 games this season. Gillaspy 52 games this season, which includes in April. Football player Travis Two more Griffons join pro ranks Partridge ’13 was named Male Student wins (96), strikeouts (977), innings was named to the National Fastpitch getting four hits in a game three Football players Reggie Jordan ’14 The duo joins a growing list of Athlete of the Year and softball player pitched (828), appearances (142), Coaches Association Central Region times. Degner had a season-best six and Travis Partridge ’13 became the recent Griffon grads in the pros: NFL Jackie Bishop was named Female complete games (105) and shutouts First Team. RBIs against the Northeastern State latest Missouri Western alumni to join players Greg Zuerlein ’13 (St. Louis Student Athlete of the Year. (29). Additionally, the two-time MIAA The Griffons, coached by Jen Trotter, RiverHawks. He was also named to the the professional football ranks. Jordan, a Rams), Michael Hill ’13 (Green Bay Partridge and Bishop were selected Pitcher of the Year (including 2014) have won 30+ games in four straight Second-team All-MIAA. three-year starter at tight end, signed a Packers) and David Bass (Chicago from a Student Athlete of the Year holds Griffon single-season records for seasons. free-agent contract with the Jacksonville Bears). Former Griffon baseball that was named for each sport. Those strikeouts (291) and shutouts (12). Jaguars in May 2014, while Partridge, players Michael Schulze and Grant student athletes included Kalvin a three-year starting quarterback for Fink are with the St. Louis Cardinals Balque, men’s basketball; David Chew, Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2014 the Griffons, inked with the Minnesota organization and the Cleveland baseball; Derek Hawkins, men’s golf; Vikings. After being released by Indians organization, respectively, Join us Oct. 3 and 4 as we honor the A reception will be held Friday, against Pittsburg State at 6 p.m. in Tiffanie Abrams, women’s basketball; Minnesota, Partridge landed with the while 2006 graduate Brice Garnett is Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2014: Oct. 3 at the Stoney Creek Inn in Spratt Memorial Stadium. Alexa Adams, women’s soccer; Alyssa BC Lions of the Canadian Football competing in his first full year on the John Chavez, track and field, 1960-62; St. Joseph, and the induction ceremony For more information or to make a Dougan, women’s tennis; Erica League. PGA tour (see an alumni profile about Mitch Mason, football, 1993-96; Darroll brunch will take place Oct. 4 in the reservation for the Oct. 4 brunch, call Rottinghaus, volleyball; Shelby Stone Garnett on the next page). Wright, men’s basketball, 1994-95; and Fulkerson Center. Cost is $25. The (816) 271-4481 by Sept. 20. ’14, women’s golf; and Emily Thomson, the 1994-95 women’s basketball team. Wendy’s Hall of Fame game will be cheer squad.

22 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 23

alumni News alumni News

Brice Garnett ’06: On a course for success From the Alumni Association President Coming Events Greetings Griffs, graduated Federal Reserve Family Day, Griffons Vs. Next time you’re watching a golf age 10, I was at the golf course Like many of you, I Bank presidents, but only Sept. 20 tournament on the PGA Tour, look for in Gallatin all day, every day in graduated, moved away Missouri Western graduated Northeastern State University RiverHawks, Brice Garnett ’06, a Missouri Western the summer. There were six or and did not return to Esther George ’80, current 6 p.m., Spratt Stadium. alumnus who advanced into the PGA eight of us who spent the days Missouri Western. My president of the Federal Tour ranks this season. playing golf and then jumping oldest son went to a Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Sept. 25 Griffon football at Lindenwood “It’s the best job in the world. I get to in the pool to cool off. They are large university for his Other universities might University. Join the St. Louis Alumni chapter play the best golf courses in the world,” still some of my best friends.” degree, but Zach, my have graduated Division I at 4:30 p.m. for a no-host dinner at Trailhead Garnett says. “I wouldn’t trade it for A golf scholarship brought youngest, wanted to be football coaches, but only Brewery. Pick up your car flag and caravan anything.” him to Missouri Western, but a a Griffon. When we St. Joseph Junior College to the 6:15 p.m. game. Purchase game Garnett has been playing professional degree in finance was his main attended the freshman shaped Bill Snyder ’59 into the tickets through Lindenwood’s Department of golf since he graduated from Missouri goal. “Being involved in the registration program, man who could take Kansas I realized what a great State University, with one of Athletics. Western with a Bachelor of Science stock market and managing David Slater ’82 in Business Administration, Finance money was going to be my University we are. the worst records in the nation, Oct. 3-5, 9-11 degree. career,” he says. The contrast in the and make it elite (see p. 27). The Gallatin, Mo. native started But in the meantime, education my sons received was vivid. If you ever need a pick-me-up, “Of Mice and Men,” Potter Hall on the Adams Tour in 2006, which, his golf game continued to Both schools have to meet the same Google Paul Rhoads ’89 at Iowa State theater. in Major League Baseball terms, is improve. In the last year and a accreditation standards. But my oldest son University and see how he takes young sat in huge lecture halls, and if he needed men and makes them ready to do what Oct. 4 Hall of Fame game, equivalent to the minor league. In 2010, half of his collegiate career, he help, he talked to a teaching assistant. it takes to win. he made his way through PGA Tour won 12 times, and his father Griffons vs. Pittsburg State University, 6 p.m. At Missouri Western, Zach had small There is something special about Qualifying School to get Web.com suggested he consider a career classes and faculty who not only knew being a Griffon. Call up some old friends Oct. 24-25 Homecoming, see p. 26. tour-playing privileges, equivalent to as a professional golfer. who he was, but were willing to help him. and come on back for a visit. You will be AAA. Garnett played four years on the “Playing golf for a Brice Garnett ’06 His experience at Missouri Western was glad you did. Nov. 4 21st Annual R. Dan Boulware Web.com tour. He finished inside the living is different than any so positive that my daughter Courtney Convocation on Critical Issues featuring top 25 on the year-end money list, other professional sport. It’s was the first-ever MIAA Player of the joined him on campus a few years later. Dr. Douglas Brinkley, 10 a.m., Looney which graduated him to the majors, all performance based. Unlike other Year in 2006. He was named MIAA Mixing this quality education with Complex. the PGA Tour. professional athletes signing major All-Conference every year he played the ability to learn lessons outside David Slater ’82 “I’m very pleased with the way my contracts, golfers play for their paycheck for Missouri Western, and MIAA the classroom in a unique city like St. Proud parent of two Griffon graduates Nov. 13-16 “The Pirates of rookie year has progressed,” he says. and job each week, which can be a major Conference Champion for three years. Joseph is special. Yes, other colleges have Faithful, Proud and True Penzance,” Potter Hall theater. “Being a rookie presents so many stressor.” Garnett was inducted into the MIAA Hall of Fame class of 2014 this past challenges week to week, but I have But he loves traveling, being his own Nov. 23-30 Fall Break played some consistent golf and made 15 boss and controlling his own fate. “Golf, summer, only the second Griffon to (no classes/campus closed). As Presented on Broadway by New York earn that honor (former men’s basketball Shakespeare Festival, Joseph Papp, Producer out of 20 cuts so far this year.” being an individual sport, takes a major Directed by Wilford Leach coach Tom Smith was the first). He Musical Adaptation by William Elliot Garnett began his path to a toll mentally, so finding a balance of Dec. 13 Commencement, Choreography by Graciela Daniele professional career when his father staying sharp mentally and physically is joined the Missouri Western Athletics 11 a.m., Looney Complex. introduced him to the sport at age 5. “I a challenge,” Garnett says. “No one on Hall of Fame in 2012. For now, Garnett’s goals are to was always playing sports around the the PGA Tour takes it easy on you if you Dec. 13-Jan. 9 Wintersession. house and always active, but for some aren’t!” improve every day, but have fun playing reason I really fell in love with golf and Garnett was named All-America the game. He hopes to finish in the top Dec. 24-Jan. 1 Campus closed. wanted to play nonstop,” he says. “By three years at Missouri Western and 125 on FedExCup points to keep his PGA Tour card. And, of course, he has Check out the details for all alumni Missouri Western the goal of winning on the Tour. events at missouriwestern.edu/ State University alumni, click on Upcoming Events. “The Missouri Western faculty, administration, staff and “I feel like I have worked very hard students are a very important part of the community.” to be where I am in my golfing career Y a - Dan Danford ’78, Founder/CEO, and personal life. I am very fortunate Family Investment Center to be given this opportunity, and I am Alumni Day at the K ansforming L of Tr ives enjoying the awesome ride!” Alumni and friends of Missouri Western gathered 1915-2015 for the annual Alumni Day at the K tailgate in July Alumni Day 2014 when the Royals played the Detroit Tigers. 24 www.missouriwestern.edu alumni News alumni News

Bill Snyder ’59: Distinguished Alumnus

Bill Snyder ’59, head football coach at 177-80-1 record with 15 bowl games. Kansas State University in Manhattan, He led Kansas State to 11 straight bowl was honored with the Missouri Western games between the 1993 and 2003 Alumni Association Distinguished seasons, making the university one of only Alumni Award at the student athlete seven programs in the nation to appear awards banquet last spring. in the postseason every year during that Snyder, a native of St. Joseph, stretch. attended St. Joseph Junior College and He left Kansas State in 2005 and earned his bachelor of arts degree from returned in November 2008. William Jewell College in Liberty, Mo. in While coaching at Kansas State, 1963, where he was a three-year letter- he has earned eight national Coach of winner as a defensive back. He began the Year Awards and seven Conference his full-time coaching career in 1964 Coach of the Year Awards, and is ranked as an assistant at Indio High School in 12th nationally in wins among active California and earned his master’s degree coaches. He has coached nine Consensus from Eastern New Mexico University in First-Team All-American selections, 79 1965. First-Team All-Conference selections and In 1974, Snyder became the offensive 108 First-Team Academic All-conference homecoming 2014 coordinator and head swimming coach selections. Friday, October 24 at Austin College in Sherman, Texas. He “I’ve known Bill Snyder nearly all Griffon Volleyball vs. Missouri Black and Gold Renewal Tailgate, joined the University of North Texas staff my life,” said Charlie Burri ’55, former in 1976 and helped author an impressive Missouri Western athletic director who 5th Annual Alumni Golf Tournament, Southern, 7 p.m. in the Fieldhouse 11:30 a.m., Lot H near the Baker Family turnaround with a three-year record of introduced Snyder at the banquet. “As 10 a.m. shotgun start, Fairview Golf Fitness Center. Pep Rally, 8: 30 p.m., Griffon Indoor 26-7. He left UNT for the University far as native sons go, I think we can place Course. $40 per person by Oct. 1. Sports Complex. Bonfire follows outside. Meet the deans and faculty from the of Iowa in 1979, where he served as him on the top of the list.” Bill Snyder ’59 Griffon Soccer vs. University of Saturday, October 25 Craig School of Business, College of offensive coordinator. Distinguished Alumni Award recipients Central Mo., 4 p.m. in Spratt Memorial Liberal Arts and Sciences, College Snyder became head coach at Kansas are normally honored at Homecoming, Stadium. Homecoming Parade, 9:30 a.m., of Professional Studies, School of State in 1989, and the team went 1-10 but Snyder was unable to attend because The Department of Psychology Fine Arts, and the Graduate School. 32nd Alumni Awards Banquet, downtown St. Joseph. Alumni and that first season. He has since created a of his game schedule in the fall. is celebrating the 25th The Alumni Board will be grillin’. 5:30 p.m. reception, 6:15 p.m. dinner, their families are invited to walk with anniversary of the Psi Chi the Alumni Association float. Meet at You can also bring your own tailgate. Chapter at an alumni banquet Fulkerson Center. (Please note that alcohol is now allowed Union Street and Frederick Ave. no later at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 3 in Spratt Distinguished Alumni Award: Bob than 9 a.m. at tailgate functions. Consumption Vecchione ’75 and Captain Keith should be out of paper or plastic cups. Hall Enright Rooms, 214/216. Hoskins ’88 Arts, Beats, and Treats FREE No glass bottles are allowed on campus.) If you did not receive an Family Fun, following the parade, Football Reunion and Tailgate, Lot I, invitation but want to attend, Graduate of the Last Decade Remington Hall. (GOLD) Award: John Fabsits ’04 $10 per person. contact Stena in the psychology Kids can make crafts, run an Join other football alumni and their office at (816) 271-4444. Distinguished Faculty Award: awesome obstacle course, make their families. Advance registration is Dr. Susie Hennessey, Professor of own Griffon Mix and enjoy a photo required; call (816) 271-5646. French booth! See Casey’s Creatures, too! Griffon Football, 2 p.m., Spratt Junior College Reunion Herb ’35 & Peggy Iffert Susan (Schmidt) Smith ’64, Tom Schneider ’64 and Outstanding Service to the Memorial Stadium. Twila (Pittsenbarger) Halter ’64 joined the Golden Griffon University Award: Carlos and Griffons vs. Hornets of Emporia Society for 50-year graduates at the St. Joseph Junior Carol Moya State University, the MIAA Game College Reunion in June. Reunion activities included lunch, a tour of the Walter Cronkite Memorial and “The of the Week. Music Man” performance. Register online at missouriwestern.edu/alumni/

26 upcoming-events or call (816) 271-5646. The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 27

Missouri Western Family Legacies alumni News

For this issue, we queried Kurt Lee Killen ’81, senior vice president of Physician Specialty Resources, and his son, Matt, who is a sophomore business/marketing major. The family lives in Platte Woods, Mo. Why did you choose Missouri Western? Museum director leaves a legacy Kurt My high school band director, who had just been named Matt I came to Missouri Western to be part of the percussion the new director at Missouri Western (William Mack), asked program. I hope to one day own a venue for bands to perform, of history education me if I’d like a music scholarship. Since I had to pay for college with a bar and restaurant. out of my own pocket, it seemed like a great idea. Jackie Lewin ’66 had been immersed Lewin said she is also pleased Favorite spot on campus? in St. Joseph history for more than four with the museums’ relationship with decades when she retired as executive Missouri Western, as many partnerships Kurt We had so many fun activities at the Rathskeller (in the Matt The football field. director of the St. Joseph Museums this have developed between the two over Blum Union basement) that I’d have to rate it number one. past spring. the years. Second on the list would be the basketball gym. I was fortunate Her degree from the Missouri The University’s academic to be in charge of the keys to the gym, and we would play Western Junior College took her to departments have always been involved basketball late at night a couple times a week. Northwest Missouri State University, in the museums’ Super Science Saturday Best student experience? where she received a Bachelor of Science from its beginning, and since 2011, Kurt Matt in Education degree with a political the annual event has been held in I was placed in a number of leadership positions. The The best experience so far has been participating in science major and a history minor, and Remington and Agenstein halls on experience proved of significant value in later life. the Extreme Percussion show. a Master of Science in History degree campus. Additionally, new students Favorite professor? with an emphasis in American History. spend a day volunteering at the Kurt Matt While pursuing a teaching career, Lewin museums as part of the University’s Dr. Frank Kessler was my advisor and has since become a My favorite professor is Dr. Dennis Rogers. I’ve been started working part-time at the Griffon Edge orientation each year. family friend. He is a good man about the right things. taking drum lessons from him since I was in grade school. He is not only a great percussion instructor but a great life St. Joseph Museums and found her The museums have also provided coach. It’s like having your own personal Yoda. calling. internship opportunities for students in Jackie Lewin ‘66 She was with the museums since history, graphic design, education and One or two words to describe Missouri Western? 1973 and served as executive director recreation fields. Last year, Jeremy Lyons since 2006. ’14 created a video and website for the In the beginning Kurt Opportunity and value. Matt Opportunity. “I feel really fortunate in that I’ve Black Archives Museum as part of his The connection between St. Joseph had a career that I really liked,” she said. master’s thesis at Missouri Western. What is one thing on your bucket list? Museums and Missouri Western dates “A museum is a place where people are “It’s a great source of people back to 1927, when Orrel Andrews, a Kurt Matt To attend every major league park. (I have two left.) I would like to one day own property in Hawaii. learning all the time, and it’s been fun.” with talent and skills, and it gives professor at St. Joseph Junior College, Her proudest accomplishments us an opportunity to show students What do you do for fun? and her students’ Natural Science Club include her role in the development the museum field,” she said of the helped found a Children’s Museum. and management of the Pony Express internships. “Missouri Western has Kurt I work out every day. I try to read at least 50 books a year. Matt For fun, I play the drums. That museum eventually became the National Museum, which opened in helped us in a lot of ways.” Two years ago I decided to learn to play golf. St. Joseph Museum. 1993, the re-accreditation with the Lewin’s love of history won’t stop The following is an excerpt from And, two final questions for Kurt: American Association of Museums and with her retirement, she says. She has a the 1927 Griffon Yearbook about What do you miss the most about serving as the director when St. Joseph book project in the works, and plans to the Natural Science Club, which was being a student? Museums celebrated its 80th anniversary organize correspondence from her father formed in 1923: “Undoubtedly, the most in 2007. when he was in World War II. important phase of its work is that, I miss the friends I made in college. I’m still close to a number “I’m going to miss it, but I’m looking under the inspiration and guidance of its of them. Actually, I’ve never stopped being a student. I’m also forward to new things.” able sponsor, Miss Orrel M. Andrews, always registered in some type of class. Right now I’m working it has laid the foundation for the future on my Master’s in Theological Studies. Missouri Western State University founding of a Children’s Museum in “Missouri Western has been my favorite place of all time.” What advice do you have for St. Joseph. The nucleus of this project, - Shirley Bradley, current students? Community Member consisting of various interesting and Y a valuable biological collections at present I have two pieces of advice: First, if you are thinking about belonging to the club, will be temporarily ransforming Li dropping out, don’t. Stick with it. You will appreciate the Matt and Kurt ’81 Killen of T ves housed at the New City Hall.” fact that you stuck with it. Second, take advantage of the 1915-2015 opportunities in front of you and get a tremendous education. It is up to you.

28 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 29

alumnotes alumnotes

1970s Toby Cummings ’91 is the executive director Candice Day Quarles ’05 and her husband, Austin ’08 and Laura of the National Association for Campus Jeremiah, were featured on HGTV’s “House Leslie Blakley ’95: On the air Christel Marquardt ’70 was recognized as (Hurst) ’10 & ’14 Nold Activities. In this role, Cummings oversees and Hunters” when they were searching for their announce the birth of a the American Business Women’s Association administers activities, programs and services; first home. Want the “best care on the air?” In the latest county rankings for Career Chapter 2014 Woman of Distinction. daughter, Elliana, born provides strategic counsel and support to the June 19, 2013. Laura earned Then you want Leslie Blakley ’95, who healthy behaviors, Atchison County Marquardt served as a Kansas Court of Appeals Lavon Schaffner ’05 & ’07 and Doug Whitby Board of Directors and the Foundation Board of a Master of Science in Nursing Health Care has been producing and hosting a has moved up and is no longer in last judge for 17 years and was the first woman were married March 15, 2014 in Gilbert, Ariz. Trustees; manages and develops staff members; Leadership degree from Missouri Western 15-minute radio show place, and Blakley hopes president of the Kansas Bar Association. and provides budget oversight among other Joey Stone ’05 and Heather Waggle were in May 2014. that keeps her listeners her program has played a responsibilities. Dr. Molly (Kelley) Pierce ’77 was named married May 24, 2014. informed about part in that. Listeners have Mary Stone Dockery ’09 was appointed an everything related to told her they have made director of community relations at East Hills Matt McDonald ’96 & ’11 was recognized as Nicolas ’06 and Amanda (Gonzalez) editor at Sundress Publications, a publishing health care. appointments for screenings Shopping Center in St. Joseph. Volunteer of the Year for 2013 in the Missouri ’07 Thyfault announce the birth of a son, collective. She also recently published “The The show, which and tests after hearing Department of Conservation’s Northwest Alexander Nicolas, born Feb. 25, 2014. He is Dopamine Letters,” her second poetry chapbook. 1980s Missouri Region for teaching hunter education has an interview her program, and others joined by a sister, Catherine. The family resides Dockery, an instructor of English at Missouri classes. He was also recognized as St. Joseph format, airs twice a have asked about getting a Laura (Hartell) Ozenberger ’80 was in Independence, Mo. Western, has also published two collections of week on KAIR Country 93.7 FM out recording from a program so someone Volunteer of the Year in 2012. He has been poetry. appointed to the Board of Directors of Elecsys of Atchison, Kan. Topics for the shows they know can hear it. Corporation. She is the former general counsel teaching hunter education classes for 14 years. have run the gamut from dental care to “I do this because it makes a and was a senior executive of Inergy, where she Summer Gemmell ’09 earned a Doctor of Kwanza Humphrey ’98 held an exhibit of his healthy feet, and everything in between. difference and it’s important,” she says. spent more than 10 years working as a member Two former Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College work, “Naturally Human,” at the Albrecht-Kemper of the executive leadership team. Prior to that, of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pa. She began “My guests are the experts. I just ask “If it makes a difference in one person’s Museum of Art in St. Joseph, Mo. professors pass away she worked at Sprint in the legal and finance her residency program in internal medicine them questions that I think others want life, it’s worth it. The program is patient Dr. Norma Hayes Bagnall, July 2014 in Ohio. to know.” advocacy at its best.” departments. She earned a Juris Doctorate from Jennifer Huffman ’99 graduated with a professor of English at Missouri Western Five years ago, Atchison County Blakley earned a diploma in nursing the University of Missouri School of Law. Master of Arts in Information Science and from 1980-1996 died Feb. 26, 2014. Learning Technologies from the University of 2010s was ranked last out of all 105 Kansas from Research Hospital and Medical Karen Glennon ’82 was inducted into the She went to college at the age of 39 Missouri-Columbia. She is employed with the counties in healthy living behaviors, Center in Kansas City, Mo., and has 2014 Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame. Glennon after raising her children and putting her Kellie (Alexander) Asher ’11 graduated U.S. Court of Appeals 8th Circuit Library in and Atchison Hospital, where Blakley worked in operating rooms her entire is the Success for All facilitator at Atchison husband through school. Dr. Bagnall with a doctorate in Physical Therapy from the Kansas City, Mo. is surgery manager, began a number of career. She returned to school 20 years Elementary School in Atchison, Kan. began her work as a college professor University of Missouri-Columbia. She and her husband live in Harrisburg, Mo., and she initiatives to try to improve the county’s after her diploma and earned her at the age of 50. She is the author of ranking. One of the initiatives was the Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree Dr. Mark D. Woodhull ’83 was promoted to 2000s practices in Boonville, Mo. “On Shaky Ground: The New Madrid radio program, and they asked Blakley from Missouri Western while working full professor and named chair of the business Earthquakes of 1811-1812.” She was a Erika (Strasser) ’01 Kayla (Aucutt) Bachman ’11 and her to host it. She has been on the air for full time. Blakley has been surgical department at Schreiner University in Kerrville, two-term president of the international and Joshua ’02 Albin husband, Luke, announce the birth of a daughter, three years. manager at 25-bed Atchison Hospital Texas. He had been serving as director of Children’s Literature Association 1989- announce the birth of twins, Gracelyn Averie, born Feb. 11, 2014. “We’ve concentrated a lot on what since 2003. Graduate Business Studies. 91. Bagnall was also a Fulbright Scholar, Zechariah Andrew and people can do to control their own To recognize her commitment, Sylvanie Gale, born Sept. 19, taking a year to study and teach in the is art director Don Robson ’89 was presented with the Katie (Roebling) Pearson ’11 behaviors, on what they can do to the hospital recently featured her 2013. They join older brothers Seth and Eli. United Kingdom. at Salva O’Renick in Kansas City, Mo. The 2014 Outstanding Teaching Award at Concordia contribute to their own healthy on a billboard at the intersection of team’s campaign for Compass Minerals recently University, Nebraska. Robson is the chair of lifestyles,” she said. “We talk about Highways 59 and 45 near Atchison. Morgan (Anderson) Conn ’02 accepted a Michael L. Magoon of Osprey, Fla., won Best in Show and awards for multimedia the art department. Students nominate full-time paralegal position with the United States Courts died August 4, 2013. He taught German anything that will help the health of the “I don’t want to be remembered faculty members for the award, and a committee and print design excellence from the National Federal Public Defender’s Office for the Northern at Missouri Western from 1973-99. Agri-Marketing Association in a regional awards community.” for my radio show,” Blakley says. “I of students and faculty members who have and Southern Districts of Iowa. For the last eight After earning his master’s degree at the Blakley’s show started out at 8:30 want to be remembered for making a received the award select the recipient. competition. The campaign also won two years, she was an asset forfeiture paralegal under University of Missouri-Columbia, he national first-place awards. a.m. on Sundays, and hospital personnel difference.” contract with the United States Attorney’s Office returned to his hometown to become a decided to add a 12:30 p.m. Wednesday 1990s for the Southern District of Iowa. professor at Missouri Western, where he Andy Tyhurst ’12 is the artistic/entertainment time slot within the first year. Dan Lentz ’90 received a Ph.D. in was known as “Herr Magoon.” Retiring director at Paradise Playhouse Dinner Theatre Alyssa (Holyfield) Groeteke ’04 published earned a master’s degree in English from Xidian Instructional Management and Leadership early, he spent a lot of time developing and Events Center in Excelsior Springs, Mo. Michelle Yue Zhang ’14 a new book, “Love is a Fire,” and it is available University and a Master of Applied Arts in Written Communication degree from Missouri from Robert Morris University in Moon his passion for photography and his love on Amazon. Morgan Lindgren ’13 is a leadership Western. She was the first student to complete the coursework since the two universities signed Township, Penn. His dissertation topic was, for the outdoors, fishing and mushroom consultant for Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority. an agreement in 2012. Zhang completed coursework at Xidian, then spent a year completing “Using Principles of Differentiated Instruction hunting. Charity (Cordray) Banko Lindgren was a member of the Zeta Mu chapter coursework at Missouri Western. to Improve Professional Development.” He ’05 and her husband, Nick, at Missouri Western. is principal of Fox Chapel High School in announce the birth of their Pennsylvania. second daughter, Penelope Rae, born April 14, 2014.

30 The magazine of Missouri Western State University www.missouriwestern.edu Fall 2014 31

alumnotes

In Memory Big dogs on campus We honor those who have passed away. If you want to include someone in this listing, please call (816) 271-5651, mail the information to Diane Holtz, Missouri Western State University, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507, or email [email protected]. here are big dogs on campus, and then there are big who read to a dog once a Ernestine Babcock ’73, St. Joseph, Mo., Roger L. Fisher ’48, St. Joseph, Mo., Michael S. Lord ’03, Sikeston, Mo., dogs on campus. The furry and lovable kind were on week for a semester will July 28, 2013. April 16, 2014. March 9, 2014. Tcampus helping to relieve student stress during spring catch up two grades in Joseph L. Bliley ’74, Kansas City, Mo., Lori A. (Bittinger) Godfrey ’00, Rex Junior Lyon ’55, New Hampton, Mo., 2014 finals week, thanks to Dr. Melinda Kovacs and her two reading competency by Feb. 1, 2014. St. Joseph, Mo., March 6, 2014. June 15, 2014. therapy dogs, Bailey and Chandler. the end of the semester.) The dogs took turns coming to campus for about an However, part of her Jim D. Brand ’73, St. Joseph, Mo., George R. Hicks ’93, St. Joseph, Mo., Robert William “Bob” Morrison ’96, hour every day of finals, offering “an unconditionally loving, handler training was at March 4, 2014. May 25, 2014. Weatherby, Mo., March 11, 2014. supportive furry presence to comfort those who are taking a an assisted living facility, Joseph W. Carter Jr ’76, Maryville, Mo., James M. Jones ’60, St. Joseph, Mo., Rodney C. Radmer Sr. ’73, St. Joseph, Mo., break,” said Dr. Kovacs, assistant professor of political science. and she says she fell in March 15, 2014. Feb. 6, 2014. June 21, 2014. Ninety students, faculty and staff took advantage of the love with the people and canine therapy. the setting. Today, she Rev. Carroll “Sid” Clark ’56, St. Joseph, Joyce A. (Kent) Jones ’82, St. Joseph, Mildred I. “Mickey” (Morris) Stewart ’05, “It’s definitely a stress reliever to come in, pet the dog and takes one of her dogs Mo., Jan. 27, 2014. Mo., May 23, 2014. St. Joseph, Mo., Feb. 19, 2014. forget about finals for a while,” said student Ali Moore, who to a nursing home in Joan K. (Murray) Colliver ’88, St. Joseph, Caroline Sue “Susie” (Jones) Nancy L. (Coon) Teeter ’89, Stewartsville, was in the middle of writing three essays and a speech as part St. Joseph once a week, Mo., April 20, 2014. Lawson ’97, St. Joseph, Mo., March 8, Mo., May 29, 2014. of her finals. “I have two dogs at home, and being at school and to church with her 2014. without them is lonely.” every Sunday to help Violet “Jane” Constable ’88, James L. Riggs ’75, St. Joseph, Mo., “It’s an absolute win, win, win,” Dr. Kovacs said. “It’s great with the children’s St. Joseph, Mo., June 6, 2014. Clyde D. Leake ’79, St. Joseph, Mo., May 1, 2014. for those who visit, it’s great for me, and the dogs love having lesson. Feb. 5, 2014. someone new to pet them.” Dr. Kovacs Dr. Kovacs adopted Chandler, an Australian shepherd is a member of and chow chow mix, in 2003. In 2008, Chandler was going Pet Partners, a blind, so she adopted Bailey, an Australian shepherd and national nonprofit Brittany mix. organization Tell us what’s new! She originally started taking Chandler into schools so promoting children could read to him. (Research has shown children therapy, service and companion Name ______Maiden ______Class of ______animals (including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, birds, Spouse ______Class of ______Alum’s Birthday ______WOOF WOOF miniature horses and llamas). There are more than Address ______City, State ______Zip______WOOF WOOF 11,000 handler/ WOOF animal teams in Phone: Home ______Cell ______email ______the organization. WOOF In 2009, Dr. Kovacs received her evaluator’s license from Pet Partners, so she now organizes evaluations of animals and What’s New ______trainers for other Pet Partners. The response was so great that Missouri Western’s ______WOOF WOOF Counseling Center is working with Dr. Kovacs to regularly schedule the dogs on campus, perhaps during midterms and finals. Others have talked to her about becoming handlers, ______and she’d like to start a Pet Partners group in the community. Return to: Alumni Services Office, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507 “It’s quite an addiction because it’s so wonderful,” Submit your news online at missouriwestern.edu/alumni/submit-an-alumnote or email [email protected]. WOOF WOOF Dr. Kovacs says of her therapy dogs. “I come from an incredibly long line of people who are crazy about animals.” 32 www.missouriwestern.edu WOOF Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Liberty, MO 64068 Missouri Western State University Permit No. 939 4525 Downs Drive St. Joseph, Missouri 64507

Spring 2014 Commencement – in the Spratt Memorial Stadium!

Carol Roever, top left, receives an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. Derek Thompson ‘14, bottom right, was the commencement speaker.

More photos on p. 14-15.