FALL 2008 FALL

The magazine of Western State University

Western welcomes

new president Steven L. Craig Robert A. Vartabedian Page 11 University receives largest gift in history! Page 16 President’s Perspective

The Western Magazine is a publication­ of the University Advancement Office for alumni and friends of Missouri Western State University and the St. Joseph Junior College. Excitement. This is an exciting time to be at Western and in St. Joseph: New FALL 2008 • Volume 6 Number 3 partnerships are being created as small, start-up companies will soon take Editor Diane Holtz residence in the Christopher S. “Kit” Design Editor Bond Science and Technology Incubator, Kendy Jones ’95 our fall athletic teams are competing Director of Alumni Services on the field and on the court, and our Colleen Kowich students are returning to the classroom Director of Public Relations & Marketing and to our community to pursue Roger Swafford ’68 their studies.

Alumni Board Gregory VerMulm ’89, President Excellence. From research projects to Diane Hook ’90, First Vice President innovative educational practices, we Randy Klein ’78, Second Vice President Enthusiasm. Excitement. Excellence. strive for excellence in everything we do. Shelby Coxon ’99, Carole Dunn ’91, John Fabsits ’04, Gini These three words characterize Missouri We measure excellence not only by the Fite ’01, Luke Gorham ’06, Patrick Grove ’79, Alyssa Holy- Western State University. I felt it during achievements of our students but also field ’05, Jason Horn ’95, James Jeffers ’73, Linda Kerner by the achievements of our alumni and ’73, Bruce Kneib ’84, Sharon Kosek ’77, David Lau ’89, my first visit to campus in December Kendell Misemer ’81, Jerry Myers ’71, Nicholas Parker ’02, and I still feel it today. The people I’ve faculty. We are proud of them and I Zachary Ramsay ’02, Melissa Rewinkel ’93, Ralph Schank met these first few months – students, hope they are proud of us. We want to ’82, Tom Schnieder ’64, Robert Sigrist ’95, Kris Smith ’96, continue to move the university in a Mary Vaughan ’79, Nichi Yeager ’99. alumni, employees, friends – all exude enthusiasm, excitement, and excellence. positive direction so that our alumni Foundation Board continue to be proud of their alma mater. Emil Sechter, President Enthusiasm. I have great enthusiasm Alfred Purcell, Vice President Laurel and I are very happy to be here at James Carolus, Secretary for not only where we are but where we John Wilson, Treasurer are going. Our future is limited only by Western. We look forward to serving this our imagination and, from what I’ve community with our own enthusiasm and Ted Allison, David Bahner, Cheryl Bilby, Linden Black, excitement so that we may contribute to Drew Brown, Michelle Cebulko ’93, Stephen Cotter ’78, seen, our imagination is limitless. Jim Pat Dillon, R. Todd Ehlert, Esther George ’80, Peter Gray, Scanlon provided the foundation for the its excellence. Stephen Hamilton, Cindy Hausman, Judith Hausman, new American regional university and it John Jarrett, Corky Marquart ’84, George Richmond, JL Robertson, LaVell Rucker ’03, Lee Sawyer, is our responsibility to build upon that Melody Smith ’87, Loah Stallard, Jon Styslinger, foundation. We want to create a system Robert Vartabedian, Thomas Watkins, Dan Nicoson, of higher education where students apply Robert A. Vartabedian executive director. what they learn in the classroom to real- President Board of Governors life experiences through internships, Dirck Clark ’85, Chair clinicals, independent and faculty- Patt Lilly, Vice Chair sponsored research, and community Dan Danford ’78, Lesley Graves, Janet Leachman, service projects. Kylee Strough ’03, Tommye Quilty ’96, Dillon Harp, student governor.

Western Magazine 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt Hall 106 St. Joseph, MO 64507 (816) 271-5651 email: [email protected]

Missouri Western State University is an equal opportunity institution. Contents Features

Departments 7 reelin’ ’em in Does this sound like an admissions story? 2 campus News It’s not; it’s a real (truthful!) fishing tale. 8 Sports

22 Alumni News 11 Western Welcomes New President 25 Alumnotes & Alumni Profiles Get to know Dr. Robert Vartabedian, who became Western’s fifth president July 1.

14 Achieving Greatness With outstanding lead gifts and lots of enthusiasm, Western kicks off a capital campaign.

20 Healing Victims Professor Joanne Katz helps students understand restorative justice, an old concept that is becoming popular in the criminal justice system. 11

14

On the cover:

Western welcomes its new president, Dr. Robert Vartabedian. Photo by Eric Callow ’97/Double E Images. Inset: Steven L. Craig

8 Campus News Computer science students earn national award n interactive, Internet-based ment contest. The two faculty members hours a week during the spring semester. Adatabase application project earned involved in the project, Deborah Becker “It took them a long time to overcome Western computer science students a and Connie Hecker, both instructors some of the problems,” she said. “They first place award in a competition at the of computer science, also gave a did very good work.” national collegiate conference for the presentation at the conference regarding The great value of the project, Association of Information Technology the project. Deborah says, was that the work was a Professionals. The students developed Deborah said the Goldpoints project real project for a real client. “A lot of an application – Goldpoints – for the began in the fall semester and was a times in the classroom you tell students biology department to showcase faculty collaborative effort between under- that the forms and theories are impor- and student awards, presentations and graduate students in two courses - tant, but when you put a live customer research activities. Conference officials Internet Scripting and Systems and in front of them saying, ‘Can we do also requested the students’ documen- Analysis - and graduate students in the this?’ or ‘Why doesn’t this work?’ that tation, which included a 67-page user Software Implementation and Integration makes them see that all these things are manual, a 140-page report and 80-100 course. Students met twice a month with necessary,” she says. “It makes them the pages of code, to use as a model for their biology department clients. owners, and they are excited to research future entrants. The scripting wasn’t finished at the and learn.” Additionally, a Western graduate semester’s end, so two of the under- She said the project continued student earned second place in the graduate students, Mike Stancliff and throughout the summer as her students Business Intelligence competition Tim Coolman, volunteered to continue expanded Goldpoints with student and three students received an honorable working on it to complete the project. surveys and evaluations, and it is part of mention in the Application Develop- Deborah estimates they worked 20-30 the coursework this fall.

All’s Fair: Love, War & Politics

ames Carville and “I expect this to be another political process, only weeks before JMary Matalin are the excellent Convocation and very we elect our next president. This featured speakers at Western’s 15th well attended. Like others who are should be fun.” annual Convocation on Critical Issues. familiar with Carville and They will speak at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 30 Matalin, I am anxious to in the M.O. Looney arena, and the event see how they play this, is free and open to the community. but I anticipate a lively Co-authors of the national best exchange spiked with seller, “All’s Fair: Love, War, and humor,” said Dan Running for President,” they are both Boulware, former key players on the national political Regent president stage, having between them worked for whom the for every president over the last 25 Convocation is years. They will give the audience an named. “We have enlightening and entertaining look at the opportunity for today’s most important political issues lively debate as well as a behind-the-scenes look at at the height of Washington politics. our nation’s News Briefs LAS dean retires Western Institute dean named Dr. Martin Johnson closed the door on a 36-year career at Western when he retired r. Gordon Eugene Mapley is the new Gordon has more than three decades June 30. He began as an assistant professor dean of the Western Institute and of experience in higher education. In D of psychology and is retiring as dean of the began his duties July 1. He 1985, he moved to YSU, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. was formerly the executive where he held a number of “Teaching and education are among director of institutional leadership positions, the most noble of occupations, and I have research and policy analysis including associate dean experienced great satisfaction in helping at Youngstown State and acting dean of the others develop their potential, gain University (YSU) in Ohio. college of arts and sciences, meaningful employment and become “Dr. Mapley’s extensive associate provost for contributing members of society,” he said. experience in civic engage- academic administration “I have been able to work with wonderful, ment and university outreach and information services, dedicated people.” is an exceptionally good fit interim executive director Martin, who was named Dean Emeritus for the Western Institute as Dr. Gordon Mapley of Metropolitan College, by the Board of Governors in June, became it expands its role as the Dean, Western Institute director of operations a full professor in 1982, and served as chair university’s principal means of of the Center for Urban of the psychology department from 1978 to outreach and public service to and Regional Studies 1992, when he was named dean. “I believe the St. Joseph region and the state of and his last position. the university has a bright future. A part of Missouri,” said Dr. Joseph Bragin, He received his doctoral and me would like to be in the midst of the provost and vice president for academic master’s degrees in developmental challenges. But another part of me wants a and student affairs. “He is extremely psychology from Wayne State quieter, less stressful life.” well qualified for the leadership role the University in Detroit, and his bachelor’s dean plays in developing partnerships degree in sociology from Oakland Students’ research read between the university and the region.” University, Rochester, Mich. ’round the world New scholarships created When Western biology and math students’ synthetic biology research results r. Elizabeth Latosi-Sawin, professor “It takes a tiny bit of edge off were published in The Journal of Biological Dof English, said she remembers being the loss to know other people will be Engineering (JBE), the news traveled all over so proud as a child that her mother had a helped,” Elizabeth said about establishing the world. career as a nurse. “She was a role model,” the scholarship. About 1,000 journals are published each Elizabeth said. “She was a wife, mother, month by the BioMed Central group, and amily members and friends have daughter and a professional.” Western’s research article was included in a established the James E. McCarthy When her mother died in 2007, F press release that selected 15-20 articles from Memorial Accounting Scholarship in Elizabeth and her sister, Lt. Col. Mary those journals. honor of an alumnus and former faculty Ann (Latosi) Jernigan, wanted to do When the press release hit the wires, member. The scholarship is for junior or something special in memory of both their Western’s article was picked up and written senior accounting majors with a 3.0 GPA. parents. They established the John A. and about all over the world, including newspa- James earned a bachelor of science Gertrude F. Latosi Nursing Scholar- pers and online sites in England, Russia and in accounting from Western in 1977 and ship, an endowed scholarship for nursing Australia. National Public Radio also hosted a a master’s in accounting from University students beginning their second year in the 20-minute segment about the research. of Missouri-Kansas City. In addition to program who have a 3.5 GPA or above. The project, conducted jointly with teaching at Western, he worked for Gertrude, who had a 41-year nursing students from Davidson College in North St. Joseph Light and Power, obtained his career, met her husband while working in Carolina, involved working with E.coli to real estate license and became a licensed a hospital for tuberculosis patients in create a bacterial computer to solve a nursing home administrator. In 1988, he Perrysburg, N.Y. They were married for mathematical problem of flipping DNA established a private accounting service 53 years before he died in 1996. “pancakes.” (Editor’s note: An article about the in Gower, Mo. research project was featured in the Spring James died April 16, 2008. 2007 issue.) Fall 2008 3 Campus News Western’s doors open wider for Nursing

international students program shift nternational students have always China, India and Korea. “They want to ive was good, but four is better. been welcome at Western, but a new see America, and an American degree is I That was the rationale behind the position and office have made the very valued overseas.” F move to reduce the nursing major courses university more accommodating to those Western’s location is ideal for from a five-semester sequence to four, students. Last spring, Huey Shi Chew international students, she says, noting and that schedule began last fall. was hired as the international student the size of the city and the proximity to Dr. Kathleen Andrews, associate coordinator, a newly created full-time Kansas City. And, she added, being close professor of nursing and department position designed to increase the to the airport is a major benefit, as that chair, said scheduling problems were international student population is a very big issue for those schools that the main reason for the shift, and the at Western. don’t have an airport nearby. response to the change has been positive. “The goal is to have the office Huey Shi has begun to build a In the previous five-semester program, serve international students,” says Huey strong foundation to make it easier for which nursing students began as second- Shi, the former associate director for international students to attend Western, semester sophomores, the students com- international which includes working with admissions bined some general education courses admissions at and several offices on campus. with nursing major courses. Since they Pittsburg State “It (international student recruitment) are required to complete clinicals off University in is so new that there are a lot of things campus, it was difficult for them to fit in Kansas. “But the people just haven’t thought about.” their general studies courses. With the bigger picture is that She hopes to eventually create on- four-semester program, nursing students it serves all students campus programs for international begin as first-semester juniors and take because interna- students once the numbers are up. only nursing major courses. tional students enrich Huey Shi, a native of Malaysia “The more we looked at it we the classroom and who enrolled in the graduate program thought this would be the best approach all students get a at Pittsburg State in 2002, said it’s quite for students and faculty,” said Kathleen. good experience. At an adjustment for international students She noted that transfer students find Pittsburg, the faculty to attend college in the United States, the four-semester sequence more always told me they especially if they enroll right out of high appealing, too. enjoyed international students because of school. She sees her role as helping with For the one-year transition, the their different perspective.” that adjustment. “I want them to feel number of students accepted each Huey Shi says the majority of they are ministered to. I want them to semester was reduced from 50 to 30 international students who enroll in U.S. say, ‘I have someone to look after me, for two semesters, and the last group of colleges and universities today hail from someone to talk to.’” “fives” and the first group of “fours” will graduate in May 2009. But now that the four-semester sequence is in place, the program is again accepting 50 students 2008 Western per semester. Phonathon In 2004, Western began accepting October 13 – November 20 50 students into the program, 10 more Help support Western’s than prior years. At that time, the nursing Annual Fund. department formed a partnership with Thank you! Heartland Health, and the hospital financially supports the extra faculty needed for the increased enrollment.

4 Western MagazINE www.missouriwestern.edu News Briefs Board approves alcohol on campus Last spring, the Board of Governors approved serving beer and wine at specific and approved events. The alcohol usage is limited to the following locations: the

Fulkerson Center, Spratt Hall Enright Rooms (214 & 216), and the Christopher S. “Kit” Betty said the Bond Science and Technology Incubator. classes benefit both her The use of alcohol must be approved students and their guests. by a three-member committee consisting Students learn how they need to of a board member, a faculty member and a adapt their teaching methods for staff member. handicapped people, and the adults and children from UCP and Helen Davis gain benefits not only from the Employee honored by PE instruction, but from the socialization Northland Chamber of with the students. Commerce PE class adapts “It’s a super opportunity for ancing, shooting baskets, dribbling them,” said Beverly Goldizen, adult Venny Pruitt ’74, coordinator of the Dbasketballs, running under a rainbow learning consultant for UCP. “They Northland programs, received the Excellence parachute, and plenty of laughter and get exercise, they meet new people, in Higher Education Award from the North- hugs were all part of Dr. Betty Block’s and they get so excited.” land Regional Chamber of Commerce. The Adapted PE Methods class last spring “I think it’s great what Missouri award is given to outstanding instructors, when it hosted adults from United Western is doing for our consumers,” professors or administrative staff members Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of St. Joseph, Mo., said Rhonda Brook, also an adult who have made a significant contribution to in the Looney arena every week. The learning consultant at UCP. “They love education in their institutions. Western students were responsible for the attention, and it’s neat to see them She was recognized for contributing to planning the activities for each class and build friendships in the community.” the success of Western’s Northland campus figuring out how to adapt their lessons. “We were all scared at first; we in the Tuilleries Plaza at Interstate 29 and “This is fun. I’m out here having a didn’t know what to expect,” said NW 64th Street in Kansas City, Mo. good time and they are having a blast,” Rachel, a PE and health and wellness Venny, who graduated with a second- said PE major Tommy Bone. He and major. “Now it’s amazing. I look ary education degree and enjoyed a 32-year fellow student Rachel Ricklefs were forward to class, it’s great.” career in public secondary education, demonstrating dance steps to the group “Every person is different,” said started at about the same time the Northland while music from the musical Grease PE major Sarah Watkins. “You have to campus opened its current location rocked the gym. figure out what they are in August 2006. The facility currently Each Tuesday, the class interested in and how partners with Metropolitan Community offered physical education to get them Colleges to offer a seamless bachelor of instruction to 20 adults from motivated and science in elementary education program, UCP, whose disabilities range active.” and began offering criminal justice and from developmentally delayed Rachel engineering technology classes this fall. to physically and mentally agreed. “And handicapped. On Thursdays, when they Western students taught 30 find something physically and mentally they like, their handicapped children from the smile gets bigger Helen Davis State School in St. Joseph. and bigger.”

Fall 2008 57 Campus News

Left: Dr. James Scanlon tries out his new chair, a gift from the Board of Governors. Above: Dr. Scanlon receives a hug from his son, Blake, who traveled from Florida to attend his father’s retirement dinner. Right: Gini Fite ‘01, visits with Dr. Scanlon. Gini gave Dr. Scanlon his first campus tour when he visited campus for his interview.

he Board of Governors hosted Board wanted to insure that his name a reception and dinner to honor will always be associated with Western.” TDr. James Scanlon as he retired “To finish my career at Missouri June 30 after seven years as Western’s Western is a privilege,” said Dr. Scanlon president. In a surprise announcement after Dirck’s announcement. “I’ve at the dinner, Dirck been in five universities during my Clark ’85, chair of the career in higher education, including Dr. Scanlon Board and emcee of the some very good ones, but none better dinner, announced that than this one.” the university’s new- The dinner in Dr. Scanlon’s honor est residence hall, the featured testimonials to his vision, lead- honored at Living Learning Center, ership and integrity from his colleague, will be named Scanlon Dr. Barbara Dixon, president of Truman Hall in his honor. State University; from Lowell Kruse, retirement “Dr. Scanlon has president and CEO of Heartland Health been a leader of great and a member of the Missouri Coordi- vision and character nating Board for Higher Education; from dinner for Missouri Western,” Lauren Scanlon, Dr. Scanlon’s wife; and Dirck said. “He’s had from Dirck. Gov. delivered a tremendous positive impact on the a tribute to Dr. Scanlon by videotape, campus and the community, and the and Chad Higdon ’00, a field representa- tive of U.S. Rep. , presented remarks that Rep. Graves placed in the Congressional Record. “You will be missed,” Lowell told Dr. Scanlon. “You’ve cut a wide swath in this community. We are all better people because of you and Lauren being here.” Board of Governors chair Dirck Clark ‘85, announced at Dr. Scanlon’s retirement dinner that Western’s Living Learning Center has been renamed Scanlon Hall.

6 Western MagazINE www.missouriwestern.edu (And it’s not an admissions story) immediately stocked with bass, blue gill and to January, anglers could only catch and channel catfish and began to see some use. release the trout and use certain types of bait, If you But when the trout were added to it in the fall, but starting in February, they were allowed to the hook was set for those who like to fish, and keep their catch, and the bait restrictions were stock crowds really began to gather at the pond. lifted. Harold said the program has been so popular, they plan to continue it this fall as well. it, they “We have yet to hear anyone complain, but a lot of people have asked if we plan to continue it.” will The Everyday Pond is open to the public, come. but South Pond is reserved for educational That could be activities only and has been used by schools the new catch and organizations in the area. It was stocked phrase around the with bass, blue gill and channel catfish as well. Missouri Department of Conservation office Western’s 744-acre campus actually contains on Western’s campus nine ponds. Canoe Pond is located near the these days. Last fall, M.O. Looney Complex, and six are hidden in they stocked a pond the 200-acre wooded area near the conserva- on campus with 800 tion office. Several biology classes make use rainbow trout, and of the ponds, and Canoe Pond is used for the except for the student annual Lifetime Sports Academy. All those union, it seems to have ponds are open to the public and a map of become one of the most their locations is on the university website. popular spots on campus. “People just love trout. Trout are just those kind of fish that draw a tremendous amount of “It’s been fantastic,” Harold says of the ponds Several years ago, the interest,” says Harold Kerns, fisheries regional project. “It’s providing just what we university and the conservation de- supervisor for the conservation department. hope for in recreational “They can often present more of a challenge to partment split the costs to upgrade two campus activities.” ponds – South Pond, located by Scanlon catch than other fish.” Hall, Western’s newest residence hall, and Everyday Pond, by the Faraon St. entrance. Harold explained that trout can only live in The ponds were drained, silt was removed, water 70 degrees or colder, so guidelines were basins were reworked, and work was completed set out to ensure they would be harvested on the dams. before the pond warmed up in the summer. Then last summer, a floating dock, restrooms, From October a parking area and a walkway to the dock were added to Everyday Pond. The pond was

Fall 2008 7

athleticsNews New athletic director: Dave Williams

his spring, Dave TWilliams became the sixth director of athletics in Western history, coming to Western from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside (UW-P) in Kenosha, Wis. “I’m happy to join the Chiefs work out at Western Western family,” Dave said. midst the black and gold and beautiful green stadium turf of Spratt Memorial “The community and the Stadium, a sea of red invaded in June when the held an campus understand the importance of an A organized team activity there. athletic department that reflects the Coach Herm Edwards brought almost his entire roster, including running mission and values of the university.” back Larry Johnson, offensive lineman Brian Waters, wide receiver Dwayne Bowe, Dave had been director of linebacker , and and . athletics at UW-P since 2001, after They entertained more than 5,000 fans with a 90-minute workout and a half-hour serving as assistant athletic director, head autograph signing session. men’s golf coach and assistant men’s Chiefs president and owner accompanied the basketball coach at the school. Prior to team as well. that, he was an assistant men’s basketball coach at North Dakota State University and Augustana College in Illinois. His Sports Wrap-up leadership ability was recognized by his peers in 2006, when he was elected he Griffon baseball team concluded Griffon golfer Aaron Lisenbee, president of the Division II Athletic Tanother successful season qualifying senior from Savannah, Mo., concluded Directors Association, a position he for the MIAA postseason tournament in an outstanding career for the golf team still holds. Bonner Springs, Kan. The tournament by winning the NCAA Central Region During his time at UW-P, the is the toughest of the MIAA’s post- Golf Tournament at Red Hawk Run Golf grade point average, retention rate and season tournaments, as only four of Club in Findlay, Ohio. graduation rate for student athletes all the 10 conference teams qualify for Aaron won the event finishing even surpassed those of the general student the event. par over 54 holes, including a course body. Additionally, 13 of UW-P’s 15 The squad finished the season record-tying 65 during the second round sports qualified for NCAA postseason 25-24 overall including winning 14 of the event. As a team, the Griffons fin- competition during his tenure, and the of their final 17 games to vault them ished third in the event as they qualified school has won 12 Great Lakes Valley into postseason play. Individually, for the NCAA Super Regional Tourna- Conference championships. three players were named to the All- ment for the seventh consecutive season. Dave earned a master’s degree in MIAA baseball first-team for their Softball - Freshman pitcher Allison educational administration from North performances throughout the season: Jones, Mitchellville, Iowa, was named Dakota State University in 1995 and a Everett Saul, senior pitcher, Cochecton, second team All-MIAA and MIAA bachelor’s degree in education from Au- N.Y., third baseman senior Adam Freshman of the Year for her perfor- gustana College in 1991. He and his wife, Carolan, Sacramento, Calif., and mance on the mound. Allison went 16-7 Suzanne, have three children: Cooper, outfielder Ben Toedebusch, senior, overall with an ERA of 2.24 while Carter, and Caden. Troy, Mo. striking out 159 batters.

8 Western Magazine www.missouriwestern.edu

News Briefs Student athletes Golf classic Students and excel in classroom a success alumni honored Student athletes had an excellent 2007-2008 academic year in the classroom. Out of 237 stu- ifty-four teams and more than 270 at banquet dent athletes, the following totals were achieved: Fplayers competed with celebrities - 111 earned a 3.0 semester GPA or higher from sports teams across the country in ootball player Patrick St. Louis, during Fall 2007. Western’s sixth annual Johnson Controls FBelton, Mo.; and basketball player - 102 earned a 3.0 semester GPA or higher Celebrity Golf Classic this past spring. Jill Johnson, Rockwell City, Iowa; were during Spring 2008. Some of the proceeds benefited the named the male and female student - 57 were selected to the Dean’s List for a St. Joseph YWCA shelter for abused athletes of the year for their outstanding 3.5 – 3.99 semester GPA. homeless women and children. seasons on the field and in the classroom - 33 were selected to the President’s Honor The team of Colman Insurance at the ninth annual student athlete Roll for a semester GPA of 4.0. Services of St. Joseph, Mo., shot the low honors banquet this past spring. - 6 were named to the Academic All-MIAA round in the morning firing a 56, while One student from each athletic team for achieving a 3.5 cumulative GPA the St. Joseph Hy-Vee team shot the low program was nominated, and one or higher while being selected to an all- round of the tournament with a 51 in male and one female student athlete conference team. the afternoon. of the year were selected from those - 2 were named to the MIAA Presidential Western also had a private dinner nominations: Kristy Pechous, tennis; Scholars list for having a cumulative for all of the tournament sponsors and Aaron Lisenbee, men’s golf; Kim Evans, GPA of 4.0. celebrities to kick off the weekend. After women’s golf; Kristi Warneke, softball; Congratulations! the dinner, former Kansas City Royals Tommy Bone, baseball; Alyssa Berg, pitcher Al Fitzmorris and his group, 39 volleyball; Shaylynn Milbourn, soccer; Attendance soars The Band, entertained. There was also Chavé May, cheer squad; and Keion Griffon men’s and women’s basketball a poker tournament at Uncle D’s Sports Kindred, men’s basketball. Keion also both finished in the top 20 in NCAA Division II Bar and Grill where the winner won a received the Volunteer of the Year award, for average attendance during the 2007-2008 $1,000 voucher for a trip to Las Vegas, and women’s basketball player Chemia season. The Griffon women ranked eighth in sponsored in part by Cotter Travel. Woods received the James J. McMillen the country out of 244 NCAA Division II Steve and Patty Culver hosted the award given to the graduating senior institutions, averaging 1,692 fans over 12 Hy-Vee charity dinner social and auction with the highest cumulative GPA. home dates. Griffon men ranked 17th in the for more than 300 people. Griffon alumni Mark Lovelace ’77, country, averaging 1,833 fans per game over This event has grown every year. football, 1972-75; and Dr. James Finley 14 home dates. Thanks to all of our fans When it began in 2003, 19 teams ’83, men’s basketball, 1978-1983; for your excellent support throughout participated, compared to this year’s 54. were this year’s recipients of the Silver the season! Next year’s classic is set for May 17 Anniversary Award, given to former and 18. student athletes for outstanding achieve- ments since their playing days at Western. Criteria for the Silver Attention, alumni living Anniversary Award include integrity, outside Buchanan, Platte, dedication and leadership, with a For tickets to any home Clay and Andrew Counties! commitment to excellence and an athletics event - 816-271-5904. obligation to serve as a concerned Griffon Athletics: Join the Gold Coat Club and get an partner in the community. www.gogriffons.com. Alumni Punch Pass - $144 Good for 12 admissions to any home athletics event, any combination. Call 816-271-5904

Fall 2008 9 News Briefs New degree programs Campus Kudos • Scott Johnson, graphic arts coordinator in campus printing and design, was one of respond to techno-changes the top three contenders out of 11,000 he skills needed for today’s journalists “We’re taking our traditional entries for the Guru Award from the Tare rapidly changing, thanks to the journalism program and refocusing it National Association of Photoshop Internet, and Western is responding to to prepare our students for the way that Professionals at the Adobe Photoshop those changes by offering two new media today needs to get the information World Conference. His entry was a degree programs: a bachelor of science out,” says Ken. panoramic photo of the new field turf in convergent media and a master of The master’s program offers at Spratt Memorial Stadium. applied arts in integrated media. Courses interdisciplinary courses in journalism, art, • The Fountain City Brass Band won the for both began this fall. video and music. One option, convergent championship section of the North “Technology has made the mass media, will train students to work in the American Brass Band Association media reconsider how it needs to reach field of online multimedia products. The Championships for the second consecu- its audience,” says Dr. Ken Rosenauer, second option, integrated media, is for tive year. Band members include assistant professor of journalism. He calls 21st those who seek roles in corporate, professor of music Lee Harrelson on century reporters “backpack journalists.” commercial and industrial settings. euphonium, who is also the band’s artistic They still carry their pen and notebook, Western also began offering courses director; instructor of music Steve Molloy he says, but they better have a backpack for the new master of applied science on cornet; and students Tim Thomas on that contains a laptop, digital camera, in assessment degree program this cornet and Joe Hull on percussion. The digital camcorder and cell phone past summer, with options in learning band also won the U.S. Open Brass Band along with them, too. improvement and writing. Championships and has been named the “Most Entertaining Band” three years Outstanding employees recognized running at that competition. Last spring, Western recognized six faculty members for teaching • Dr. Glenn Rice, assistant professor of mathematics, taught a graduate course excellence and four staff members with presidential citations: at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln Jesse Lee Myers Excellence Presidential Citation Awards this past summer. He was one of four in Teaching Award • Service to Western Students - professors selected to participate. Glenn • Dr. Kaye Adkins, Michael Ritter, disability services taught 16 “pre-grads,” students who were associate professor of English coordinator about to enter their first year of graduate • Dr. Stacia Bensyl, • Service to Campus Colleagues - study in mathematics. associate professor of English Barbara Davis, administrative • Dr. Brian Cronk, professor of psychology, • Dr. Robert Bergland, coordinator, college of liberal has developed an online Institutional professor of journalism arts and sciences Review Board (IRB) for students and • Dr. Deborah Bogle, • Service to the University - faculty that greatly expedites the approval associate professor of education Stena Hinkle, administrative assistant, process for research projects involving psychology department human subjects. He has received many Faculty Excellence in Teaching of • James J. Scanlon Service-Leader Award - requests from other institutions to use it, Critical Thinking Award Kelly Sloan, computer acquisition so he plans to reconfigure the software • Dr. Phil Wann, specialist to make it available to them. His IRB was professor of psychology listed as a model program in an article in Dr. James V. Mehl Outstanding In June, Carol Roever, associate the Association for Psychological Faculty Scholarship Award professor of business and interim dean of Science Observer. • Dr. Todd Eckdahl, the Steven L. Craig School of Business, professor of biology was awarded the 2008 YWCA Women of Excellence Woman in the Workplace.

10 Western Magazine www.missouriwestern.edu everal years ago, Dr. Robert Vartabedian went on a date with a woman named Laurel, andS he said everything about that first date just felt right. Many years later, in 2007, Dr. Vartabedian visited Western for an interview for the president’s position. After he left, he said he had that very same feeling that he had on that first date. “Something felt right; I went home feeling very good about the interviews.” The date turned out alright – he and Laurel have been married for 30 years. And the interview turned out all right, too. Dr. Vartabedian became Western’s new president and began his duties July 1. He succeeds Dr. James Scanlon, who retired June 30. The new president has been spending his first few months at Western getting to know people on campus and in the community. “After getting out and meeting with stake- holders, we’ll sit down and map out Western welcomes the future,” he says. “I won’t neces- sarily change anything. I’m not one to change things for the sake of change, new president or change things to have my name on them. I’m content to sustain good ideas, and there are a lot of good ideas here.” Robert and Laurel One of those good ideas, he says, Vartabedian is the university’s focus on applied learning. “Expanding the classroom can be the most memorable aspect of a college career. Applied learning really adds to the educational atmosphere.”

Fall 2008 11 Western welcomes new president Dr. Vartabedian notes that his He has also served as dean of the The couple has two children. Son, Rob, colleagues at other universities have college of arts and sciences at Western and his wife, Audrey, are attorneys in read about Western’s applied learning Carolina University and taught speech Amarillo, Texas. Their daughter, initiatives on its website, and they communication at West Texas A & M Sarah, is attending doctoral school at want to replicate the ideas. “It (applied University and East Central Oklahoma the University of Texas, Austin.Their learning) has been and will be a major State University. He earned a doctorate cat, Echo, made the move with the claim to fame for Western.” in communication from the University of Vartabedians from New Mexico. Another good idea he mentions Oklahoma. “I am very happy to be here. I feel is Western’s focus on students. Dr. “I’ve had a lot of titles, but the title like it’s a nice capstone experience of my Vartabedian says the positions he most of teacher is the one I am most proud career,” Dr. Vartabedian said. “Western enjoyed at his previous universities of. I will always be a teacher, first and is a blossoming state university. The were those where students were the top foremost.” possibilities are limitless.” priority. “We do everyone a disservice if Dr. Vartabedian, who sets his alarm we lose the central focus of students.” for 5 a.m. each morning (he’s a former He also plans to continue to jogger, now a part-time jogger, part-time Presidential maintain Western’s strong community power walker), says he brings a lot of Installation partnerships and community outreach, energy to his position. “I look forward to and work toward “creative and persistent going to work every day. I love what I do ceremony revenue generation.” and I hope it shows.” Although he grew up in Fresno, When prompted, he says a distin- For Calif., and most recently served as vice guishing characteristic of his leadership Robert A. president for academic affairs at Eastern style is respect for others’ ideas. “I’m a Vartabedian New Mexico University in Portales, firm believer in the creative process. I Dr. Vartabedian isn’t too worried about value others’ opinions, and I try to make 1:30 pm. the Midwestern winters. He earned his people feel comfortable giving their master’s degree in speech communica- ideas. I hope others would say I have a October 17, 2008 tion from Wichita State University sense of humor.” MWSU Arena in Wichita, Kan., and spent eight His wife, Laurel, also received a years there, moving up from director doctorate in communication from the Reception to Follow of forensics to assistant dean of University of Oklahoma and has been a graduate studies. college professor for the past 25 years.

12 Administrators since 1915 St. Joseph Junior College 1931-57 Nelle Blum, Dean 1915-1965 1959-64 From 1915 to 1925, the Marion E. Gibbons, St. Joseph Junior College Dean was located in Central High 1964-65 School, and the principal Edgar C. Little, Dean served both the high school and the junior college. Missouri Western Junior 1915-16 College 1965-1967 Frank Charles Touten, 1965-67 Principal Milburn W. Blanton, 1916-19 President Dr. V. M.C. Prunty, Principal Missouri Western College Fun Facts 1919-20 1967-1977 John W. Thalman, Principal Missouri Western • Has visited all the 1920-23 State College 1977-2005 presidential libraries Oscar S. Wood, in the United States 1967-1983 Principal M.O. Looney, President • Started his career as a 1923-24 1983-2000 Glenn R. Deatherage, debate coach Janet Gorman Murphy, Principal President • Favorite sports hero - 1924-25 Willie Mays Calla E. Varner, Missouri Western (“I thought I was a serious Principal State University 2005- baseball player.”) 1925-28 2001-2008 Calla E. Varner, James J. Scanlon, • Co-authored a paper President President with his wife, Laurel, David W. Hopkins, about humor in Dean 2008- Robert A. the workplace 1928 -31 Vartabedian, Calla E. Varner, President President Leonard M. Haines, Dean

Fall 2008 13 e want to develop the most modern facilities, “Wequipment and other resources at Western to help meet our strategic plan goals for the next five years.”

That, according to Jerry Pickman ’85, Beyond Excellence calls for a major director of development, is the reason investment of public and private funds to behind Achieving Greatness, a five-year enhance Western’s mission, Jerry said. capital campaign that kicks off Sept. 16. Public funding for the initiative includes Lead gift donors (at press time) included $30 million from the state’s Lewis and Steven L. Craig, $5.5 million, and Wes and Clark Discovery Initiative, which will help Patsy ’79 Remington, $5 million. fund the renovation and expansion of “We are very excited about these Agenstein Hall; a $2.5 million Economic gifts and applaud the generosity of our Development Administration grant for the donors,” said Jerry. “Their faith in Western construction of the Christopher S. “Kit” is gratifying, and we appreciate their lead Bond Science and Technology Incubator in this campaign.” that was dedicated in May, and $5.5 The Achieving Greatness capital million from a bond issue for improve- campaign is the private funding ments to athletic facilities (supported by component of Western’s Beyond Excellence Max Experience student fees). Initiative that was announced last year.

“For this campaign to have the impact scholarships; and undesignated gifts that on the future of the university that we’d like the Foundation can use as needed it to have, we need people to think about (see page 18). giving in a way they’ve never done before,” “Undesignated gifts will fund said Dan Nicoson, vice president for ‘emerging needs,’” Jerry explained. The university’s university advancement. “The lead gifts “Western’s Foundation has very few have set the bar high.” undesignated funds that can be used to “ success is a He noted that a faculty and staff respond to needs as they arise, and there fund-raising campaign last spring for have been a growing number of requests Achieving Greatness raised more than from campus departments for funding. testament to $200,000, with more than 76 percent of This will make funds available to meet employees making a pledge or gift. needs that emerge from time to time.” those who believe Money raised in the Achieving “The campaign is an investment in Greatness campaign will be used for Western’s greatness, and everyone’s construction of the Agenstein Hall addition, participation is an important part of this Remington Hall; equipment for Agenstein/ process,” Jerry said. “The university’s Western can Remington Hall, along with an endowment success is a testament to those who believe for the buidings’ maintenance; student Western can achieve greatness.” achieve greatness.”

Fall 2008 15 Gift sets new contribution record for Western School of Business established

ast fall, Western received a $5 million gift, the largest individual contribution Lin its history. That record was broken in May, when a $5.5 million gift was announced. Shopping center developer Steven L. Craig is now Western’s largest contributor. His gift supports the creation of a school of business at Western, to be known as the Steven L. Craig School of Business. “The St. Joseph area is still near and dear to me, and I feel very fortunate to have been raised here,” said Steve, who moved to California after graduating from Savannah High School in Savannah, Mo., in 1973. “My own business career started here, and my goal is to create a culture of entrepreneurship at Western by giving students the tools to set out on their own course to accomplish their dreams. I see this investment in Western as an opportunity to make a very meaningful impact on the community.” “This is an investment in Western’s greatness,” said Dan Nicoson, vice president for university advancement, when the gift was announced. “This empowers the university to continue to do outstanding work. Graduates of the Steven L. Craig School of Business will benefit the economy of the community and our region for years to come.” Steve earned a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of Southern California in 1978 and is found- ing partner, president and CEO of Craig Realty Group of Newport Beach, Calif. Craig Realty Group, founded in 1995, specializes in the development of upscale factory outlet centers and currently owns, Dr. James Scanlon presents operates and manages nearly 3.5 million square Steve Craig with a bronze Griffon to mark the announcement of his feet of existing retail development in six states, $5.5 million gift. with an additional one million square feet under construction and development.

16 Gift sets new contribution record for Western Work begins on Agenstein Hall/ Remington Hall School of Business established When Deborah Becker, instructor of com- Agenstein Hall. The addition will be built first, puter science, was hired at Western in 2002, followed by the renovation; all work is Prior to founding Craig Realty Group, fellow faculty members were excited about the scheduled for completion in 2010. Steve was president, CEO and director of renovation and expansion of Agenstein Hall, Sophomore Sami Schmuecker said Chelsea Property Group and a principal the building that housed math and science she is looking forward to the additional lab and managing partner of Chelsea’s predeces- departments. They believed that funding for space in Remington Hall, along with the new sor, Ginsburg Craig Associates. During his the renovation was imminent, because the instruments and updated equipment. “Our 10 years at those two companies, he was Agenstein Hall project was at the top of a capabilities are limited right now for research,” responsible for the development of 10 retail state capital projects list. Western had even she says. “So many students want to get centers in five states. received a $250,000 federal grant to begin involved but there is not enough room to set Steve believes the roots of his success renovation planning. up.” And Sami, a biochemistry and molecular began in St. Joseph, where, as an “extraordi- But 2002 was the beginning of biology major and math minor, is excited about narily inquisitive child,” friends and neighbors several years of decreasing state revenues, the new student spaces that will be created as took the time to answer his questions and and the capital projects at state colleges and part of the project. “I can’t wait. I’ll get to see it explain how things in the business world universities were put on hold. The renovation the whole way through.” worked. “I feel a strong sense of appreciation plan was set aside, but the campus community, The project received a boost last fall when and indebtedness to them,” he says, adding especially science and math students and Wes and Patsy ’79, Remington of St. Joseph, that he got his start in business by operating faculty members, continued to hope. Mo., pledged $5 million to be used on the fireworks stands as a teenager. Finally in 2007, the state found a way to project. The gift, Wes said, is to ensure that He visits the St. Joseph area four or fund their higher education institutions’ capital workforce development in the animal health five times a year, as several members of his projects, and Western received $30 million and life sciences fields will continue in family and many friends reside here, and he from the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative St. Joseph so the industry can grow even more. has been an active supporter of the Albrecht- for the Agenstein Hall project. “Achievements of students in all areas Kemper Museum of Art, the Mount Mora “We’re very excited,” Deborah said at the at Western have been impressive, and that’s Cemetery Association, the YWCA and other April groundbreaking for the renovation and certainly been true in the science and math local charities. expansion. “I’m glad I’m going to get to see areas,” said Dan Nicoson, vice president Steve has been involved with the the project completed.” for university advancement. “I think the new department of business at Western for the last The project includes an approximately facilities will make Western a major force in the decade, said Carol Roever, associate professor 60,000 sq. ft. addition which will be named science and technology workforce development of business and interim dean of the school of Remington Hall, and the renovation of in our region. That is very exciting.” business. He was the keynote speaker at the annual business intern banquet 10 years ago and was recently an invited guest lecturer for an entrepreneurship class. “I know alumni will ask, ‘why does someone who went to USC want to give to Western the largest gift in its history?’” Steve says. “In my involvement with Carol and the business department, I understood what they were doing and it connected with my thoughts and ideas. I knew a donation of this size would make a profound difference and be very significant.”

Professors who teach in Agenstein Hall ‑ Dr. Ben Caldwell, Dr. Jerry Zweerink, Dr. Jason Baker and Dr. Ken Lee ‑ along with Provost Dr. Joseph Bragin (second from left), break 17 ground for the addition to Agenstein Hall, known as Remington Hall. Achieving Greatness will secure an initial celebration goal of $ to address many of Western’s long-range needs15 during million the five-year effort.

Construction and Renovation Steven L. Craig Emerging Needs Goal | $7.5 million School of Business Goal | $1 million A campaign priority is the expansion and Goal | $5.5 million An additional campaign priority is to secure renovation of the current science and math- The department of business is Western’s support for emerging needs. Undesignated ematics building – Agenstein Hall. More than largest degree program with more than 750 gifts received annually through the Western $30 million of the total $37.5 million project students majoring in accounting, finance, Annual Fund and membership in the Western has been raised in public funding, and Wes management and marketing. Steven L. Craig League for Excellence help maintain the and Patsy Remington have donated $5 million has donated $5.5 million for an endowment day-to-day excellence of Western. Investing for this project. The addition will be called and program funding to establish the Steven in the Emerging Needs Fund will allow Remington Hall. L. Craig School of Business and to attract and Western to better prepare students for a retain outstanding students and faculty. (See competitive workforce by providing Endowment Goal | $1 million story on p. 16) additional opportunities for applied A second campaign priority is to expand learning, research and service. support for student scholarships. Investing in need- and merit-based scholarships will further Western’s mission of empowering students to succeed.

18 Achieving Greatness will secure an initial celebration goal of to address many of Western’s long-range needs during the five-year effort.

CampaignLeadership Honorary Chairs Steven Craig Dick ’54, and Mignon DeShon Joe ’42, and Anne Gray Wes and Patsy ’79, Remington

Campaign Vice-Chairs Campaign Counsel Linden Black Todd Bragg, The Steier Group Evelyn Brooks Dirck Clark ’85 University Leadership Mark Cochran Robert A. Vartabedian Steve Cotter ’78 President Dan Danford ’78 Pat Dillon Dan Nicoson Daniel Eckhoff ’91 Vice President for University Advancement Jeff Ellison Executive Director, MWSU Foundation Steve Estes Steve Hamilton Jerry Pickman ’85 Cindy Hausman Director of Development Larry Hausman Kelly Henry Jason Horn ’95 Linda Kerner ’73 Far left: Carol Roever, interim dean of the Corky Marquart ’84 Steven L. Craig School of Business, visits Howard McCauley with Steve Craig. Right: Wes and Patsy ’79, Ralph Schank ’82 Remington unveil a plaque in their honor Emil Sechter at the groundbreaking of Remington Hall. Bill Titcomb Above: Dr. James Scanlon and Sen. Greg VerMulm ’89 Christopher S. “Kit” Bond cut the Zack Workman ’74 ribbon at the dedication of Western’s new incubator.

Fall 2008 19 Healing

And remember when your parents found out and made you not only take it back and pay for it, but also apologize to the owner? It was a great lesson, wasn’t it?

That was restorative justice in action, and it’s a concept that is becoming more and more prevalent in our criminal justice system today. Joanne Katz, professor of legal studies, has received grants to conduct research on restorative justice programs in Missouri and develop a curriculum for it. She teaches a unit on the concept in her Mediation class. She says that the practice of restorative justice has been around a long time (it is mentioned in the Babylonian Code of Hammurabi, written around 1700 B.C.), but she says what is new is that the court system is becoming involved and more formal programs for restorative justice are developing. “It is a shift in the way we look at crime,” she says. “Ordinarily, we think of crime as against the state, and the victim gets left out of the process. The idea of restorative justice is that the

20 Western Magazine www.missouriwestern.edu Excerpt from sample Joanne Katz, Victim/Offender Mediation professor of As the mediation session began, Clarice sat stiff and legal studies straight in her chair. She stared at William, the 16 year- crime really happened to the individual old restaurant employee who fidgeted and looked away. and that person is harmed.” “Why,” Clarice demanded, “did you throw my dinner in Restorative justice gives the victim my face?” She was near tears. The personal humiliation an opportunity to meet the offender face- had been far worse than the burn from the hot food. to-face in a safe, structured environment and ask questions. The offender then has William tried to explain. It had been an extraordinarily the opportunity to repair the harm and long day. The restaurant was understaffed and he had understand the impact on the victim. The been working for nine hours in the hot kitchen without a break when Clarice complained about her food. parties discuss the situation and work out a plan for repairing the harm caused “I just lost it,” he said, realizing there was no way he by the crime, and restitution is almost could justify what he had done. always a part of the program. William told Clarice his rash action had cost him his Participation in a restorative justice job, his car, and his girlfriend. Clarice began to calm program is always approached carefully down once she understood that William had already and with great consideration for the “We know when juveniles are “paid a price” for his misdeed. victim, Joanne says. For example, a called to task it seems to impact them. Because Clarice had no medical expenses associated victim is never ordered to participate, They better understand the impact it with the incident, they decided that William would and a meeting would never be set up (the crime) had on people’s lives.” pay Clarice for the wages she lost when she took if the offender was not remorseful. Restorative justice, she believes, off work to attend this session. Additionally, a trained mediator meets can be one of the answers to the United William later told the mediator he did not realize with both the victim and offender before States’ growing crime problem and until he met with Clarice how serious and hurtful they meet with each other. exploding prison population. “Our his actions had been. One of her favorite examples of system just isn’t working; we are over- restorative justice involved an elderly dependent on incarceration as a way of couple whose home had been vandal- dealing with crime. We have to do things ized by a group of young teenagers. The differently, and restorative justice is couple was terrified to leave their home, answering a call.” but reluctantly agreed to meet with the Joanne has been a proponent of the offenders. “When the victims walked in, concept since 2000, when she received a they saw their offenders sitting there,” grant to study the extent of the programs asks: Joanne says. “They were boys who were in the state of Missouri. In 2006, when What is the law that was broken? so small their feet didn’t touch the floor. she was hired to complete the survey Who broke the law? That’s who the couple was terrified of.” again, she found that the number of How should they be punished? She said the boys were very apologetic programs had increased from four to and it turned into a very good experience 13. She also received a three-year grant for the couple. to study the attitudes of stakeholders At least one student in her class toward restorative justice in Missouri every year tells Joanne that they and another grant to train juvenile court remember the humiliation of having to employees. Additionally, a two-year asks: return that stolen candy bar, and they grant funded a program where Joanne What is the harm that was done? tell her they vowed to never steal again. worked with middle school students in How can we repair that harm? She’s not surprised. Studies have shown the St. Joseph, Mo., School District. Who is responsible for repairing that harm? that when juveniles participate in “From all points of view, restorative justice, the re-offense rate is restorative justice just makes sense,” greatly reduced. she says.

Fall 2008 21 Alumni News From the Alumni Association President ALUMNI News Briefs

Dear Fellow Alumni, New board members, Surprise! There’s a new picture officers associated with this article and a new At its May meeting, the Alumni president. I want to thank the past Association board of directors elected five president Jason Horn ’95, for his steadfast new members: Luke Gorham ’06, Alyssa leadership over the last two and half years. Holyfield ’05, Bruce Kneib ’84, Tom Under Jason’s administration, the Alumni Schnieder ’64, and Nichi Yeager ’99. Association has grown and expanded in Luke is a graduate student at ways inconceivable just a few years ago. We are poised for continued growth University of Missouri – Kansas City and in the years ahead. works in the Student Life Office there, and The Alumni Association Board of Alyssa is a recreation specialist for youth Directors and several Alumni Association services for the city of O’Fallon, Mo. Bruce is members spent many hours over the last controller at the St. Joseph News-Press, Tom year developing a strategic plan for the is an adjunct professor of music at Western, Association. If there was a common theme retiring in 2005 as supervisor of fine arts for in our discussions, it was this: Alumni are the St. Joseph School District. Nichi is the relevant at today’s Western. We have the editor of Josephine magazine for the St. Joseph ability to help the university achieve its News-Press. vision and assist our current students to Gregory VerMulm ’89 Officers were also elected for the new become alumni of the future. academic year: Gregory VerMulm ’89, Look for opportunities to be involved • Reunion activities and trips – president; Diane Hook ’90, first vice president - in the following ways: From St. Joseph Junior College to special projects and benefits; and Randy Klein • Student/alumni engagement – Through Greek organizations to departmental ’78, second vice president – events and career networking programs, athletic gatherings, we welcome any and all student involvement initiatives. events, new student recruitment, and opportunities for alumni to reconnect. A special thank you to outgoing leadership development, we will be For starters, there’s a trip to Branson board members, Jeanne Daffron ’75, Robin working closely with current students. planned for this November (see next Hammond ’93, and Angie Springs ’02, for • Professional networking – What page). their dedicated years of service to the Alumni makes great universities great are Association. alumni networking with and hiring All we need is you. Let me know what other alumni. We will provide you think about our plans. You can e-mail Join us online! opportunities for Western alumni to me at [email protected] meet and network with one another or contact the Alumni Services Office Now’s your chance to become a part of an both socially and professionally. at 816-271-5646 or mwalumni@ online community of Western alumni! Look for our alumni groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. • Community involvement - One of the missouriwestern.edu. And don’t forget our own online community, hallmarks of Western is community service. Each regional chapter will be With Griffon Pride, www.griffonalumni.org. involved in some sort of community service project within their own Seasonal Addresses community, and we invite each of Gregory A. VerMulm ’89 Do you have a winter home? We you and your families to participate in President, Alumni Association occasionally host events in Florida, Texas, these activities. and Arizona during the winter months. Don’t miss out on your invitation. Update your seasonal address by e-mailing [email protected] or calling 816-271-5646.

22 Western Magazine www.missouriwestern.edu Alumni News Alumni Join us for Homecoming 2008! October 16 Distinguished Faculty Calendar • Alumni Association Awards Banquet, Carol Roever, associate professor of Fulkerson Center, $20 per person. business and interim dean of the Steven L. of Events Please join us as we honor the recipients of Craig School of Business. the Distinguished Service Awards, Alumni Association scholarships, and the Herb and Herb and Peggy Iffert Award for SEPTEMBER 13 Alumni Tailgate Peggy Iffert Award for Outstanding Service to Outstanding Service to the University at Northwest Missouri State University. the University. Stan and Doris ’51, Hall. SEPTEMBER 16 Volleyball match The 2008 Distinguished Award Recipients October 18 at UMSL. Meet the team and St. Louis-area • Parade, downtown St. Joseph alumni following the game at our first Distinguished Alumni • Alumni tailgate lunch – Reunions for chapter family picnic. George Hayward ’75, president of Lake Road communication studies/theatre majors, Warehouse Co. in St. Joseph, Mo., and physical therapist assistants (10-year SEPTEMBER 20 Hall of Fame game; official for the NFL. Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2008 honored. anniversary of the program), resident Chris Danford ’78, lead counselor at Central assistants, Student Government Association, SEPTEMBER 24 Western Wednesday High School in St. Joseph, Mo. Greeks, Ebony Collegians and NAACP. in St. Joseph, Mo., Kansas City, Mo., and Dan Kellogg ’82, Buchanan County Circuit • Griffons vs. Emporia State University, St. Louis. Check out www.GriffonAlumni.org/ Judge, St. Joseph, Mo. Spratt Memorial Stadium WesternWednesdays for more information. Cheri Kempf ’85, owner of Worth Club K • Greek Reunion – Join us for the second OCTOBER 11 Alumni Tailgate softball instruction facility in Nashville, annual gathering of the Greeks! Open to all at the University of Nebraska – Omaha. Tenn., and sports commentator for ESPN alumni members of Greek organizations. and Fox Sports. OCTOBER 16-18 Homecoming 2008. Check out the details and register for events at www.griffonalumni.org or call 816-271-5646. OCTOBER 22 Western Wednesday in St. Joseph, Mo., Kansas City, Mo., and St. Louis. Check out www.GriffonAlumni.org/ Western Wednesdays for more information.

NOVEMBER 8 Alumni Football Reunion. All former football players are invited to return for Senior Day to meet the seniors, the coaches and the rest of the team. For more information and to register, go to www.griffonalumni.org/foot- ball2008. Reunion organizers include Tom Earley ’83, Scott Graham ’78, Jaime Grayson ’99, Jamie Waldren ’78, & Zack Workman ’74.

NOVEMBER 19-20-21 Second annual Branson trip for alumni and friends! See Andy Williams, Yakov Smirnoff, Tony Orlando and Bobby Vinton, along with the Titanic Museum, the Veterans Memorial Museum and holiday lights. Bus transportation, lodging and all meals included. Early bird special: $595/double, $335/single by Oct. 17; $625/$365 after Oct. 17. Call 816-271-5646 or go online at www.griffonalumni.org/Branson2008. Members of the Golden Griffon Alumni Society, those who graduated 50 or more years ago, gather for a group photo at the Junior College Day in April. Alumni News

BSU gathers for reunion

lizabeth Talbot ’02, said her other,” she said of her membership in “We always had a close bond when Einvolvement in the Baptist Student the BSU. “No other organization on we were in school together, and we wanted Union (BSU) had a great influence on her campus did that for me.” a chance to reconnect with each other,” not only as a student, but it shaped her life Elizabeth, one of the reunion said Andrea Morris ’98, another one of even after she graduated. When the first planners, said the committee was the organizers. She added that she was ever reunion was scheduled last spring, pleased with the turnout of more than thrilled to see the campus again, and see she knew she didn’t want to miss it. “It was 75 alumni, family members and friends. how much it has grown. “It makes you a time we grew They gathered on campus on a Saturday proud to be an alumnus.” closer to God last April for a social, dinner and a Both women said they plan to and to each prayer service. hold another reunion next year.

Karen Havener ’01, Carolyn Polston ’01, Cara Harrington ’99, Janette Leifker ’01, and Natalie Woods ’01, visit at the Baptist Student Union reunion.

Kim Bunten ’05, and Kristen Neeley ’05, joined 300 alumni and friends at Alumni Day at the K, Cardinals vs. Royals.

All alumni who send in a baby announcement for the Alumnotes (with or without a photo!), will receive a “Future Griffon” bib! 24 alumnotes

1970s LAURIE (STOOPS) TRICKEL ’94, and Craig BRAD NURSKI ’01, was one of 17 golfers who Frisbie were married Oct. 18, 2007. The couple competed for one open spot in the U.S. Open JIM TERRILL ’77, was appointed by resides in Trenton, Mo. and finished in second place, one shot behind Gov. Matt Blunt to a second three-year term on the qualifier. Brad finished in first place in the HEATHER (HAGER) CLARK ’95 and Matt Rivera the Missouri State Rehabilitation Council in regional qualifier in May. In June, he qualified were married April 4, 2008. The couple resides Jefferson City, Mo. for one of the top 15 spots in the Missouri in St. Joseph, Mo. CURTIS DEAN ’79, is vice president at Allen, Amateur Championships. BRANDI (LIPIRA) FRAIZER ’95, and her hus- Gibbs & Houlik, L.C.’s tax department. JULIA CHANEY ’02, graduated from the band, Brent, announce the birth of a daughter, University of Missouri – Columbia Law School 1980s Victoria Marie, born Aug. 29, 2006. The family and entered private practice as an attorney in MIKE WOLF ’80, is the secondary principal for resides in Kansas City, Mo. Hannibal, Mo. the King City R-1 (Mo.) School District. ANDY STUFFLEBEAN ’95, is campus director MARK COLE ’02, is the head football coach at TONY JUSTIN ’80, is a loan officer at Union at Vatterott College in St. Joseph, Mo. He has Savannah (Mo.) High School. He had served Bank’s Commercial Banking Group in Lee’s been with Vatterott since 1996, serving as an as head football coach at Gallatin (Mo.) High Summit, Mo. instructor and director of career services. School for six years. KENDELL MISEMER ’81, was featured in ERIN (MCCAMY) ’98 and JOE ’99, DUIN an- KIM (BURETTA) MEYER ’02, attained her FB News, a newsletter for the American Farm nounce the birth of a son, Reed Matthew, born MBA in international business from AIU in Bureau Federation. The profile focused on Sept, 25, 2007. Reed has two siblings, Hannah December 2007 and began a new position in his farming operation and his community and Brett. the Business Operations – Finance Department involvement. AMY DUNN ’98, and William Cunningham were at Boeing, one of the world’s largest aerospace SUSAN FERGUSON ’85, earned a master of married March 15, 2008. The couple resides in and defense corporations. arts in English - creative writing from Northern St. Joseph, Mo. STACY (CALCOTE) WILLIAMSON ’02, was Arizona University. She is self-employed as a HEATHER (PERRY) FENTON ’98, was promoted chosen as a workshop presenter at the National writer and manuscript editor in Sedona, Ariz. to manager of product resources for TouchNet Middle School Association’s annual conven- PATRICIA (DUNN) NAUMAN ’86, retired as Information Systems, Inc., Lenexa, Kan. tion in Denver. The workshop is on grading vice president of US Bank in St. Joseph, Mo., DANA (MAXWELL) HOOVER ’98, is the chief practices in middle level education. It focuses after 45 years of service. financial officer at Hedrick Medical Center in on making all students successful by using 1990s Chillicothe, Mo. differentiated instruction. CAMMIE NICHOLS ’92, is serving as a KIMBERLEY (EVANS) RODRIGUEZ ’99, is the MIKE KELLAM ’03, is the city planner for the specialist in the U.S. Army and is stationed at K-12 principal at Hale R-1 (Mo.) School. City of St. Joseph, Mo. He had served as Ft. Lewis, Wash. She is a dental hygienist at a 2000s assistant city planner since 2006. dental clinic on the post. LACEY CHRISTOPHER ’04, and Matthew Beals BECKY (BRYANT) GALL ’00, is the banking were married in 2006. Their daughter, Ella, GINA MITCHELL ’94, received a master of center manager at UMB in St. Joseph, Mo. science in nursing from Webster University. was born June 5, 2007. Lacey graduated from CAROLYN SANDERS ’00, is the human Drake University Law School in Des Moines, LORIN O’DANIELL ’94, and Mary Beth Crouch resources manager for the City of Iowa, in May 2007, and passed the bar exam in were married Dec. 29, 2007. The couple resides St. Joseph, Mo. February 2008. in St. Joseph, Mo. KRISTI (BREEDING) BOGSETH ’01, and her ERIN MCBRAYER ’04, and Shawn Goins were SUSAN SCHOTTEL ’94, and JEFFREY LONG husband, Kurt, announce the birth of a son, married Sept. 21, 2007. The couple resides in ’01, were married Jan. 17, 2008. The couple Brandon Charles, born March 22, 2008. The Kansas City, Mo. resides in New Madrid, Mo. family resides in Ankeny, Iowa.

Fall 2008 25 alumnotes

2000s continued JARON MONTEMAYOR ’04, and Kristina Otto NICOLE HENDRIX ’05, and CODY ARCHDEKIN JOHN SEEVER ’06, and his wife, Heather, were married Feb. 13, 2008. Kristina is a ’06, were married Oct. 6, 2007. The couple announce the birth of a daughter, Amelia Grace, student at Western. The couple resides in resides in St. Joseph, Mo. born Oct. 26, 2007. St. Joseph, Mo. ALYSSA HOLYFIELD ’05, received an MBA from MICHAEL COBBINS ’07, is playing arena SANDRA LOPEZ ’04, and Kody Kemerling were Lindenwood University. She is a member of the football for the LA Avengers. Michael was a married March 21, 2008. The couple resides in St. Louis alumni chapter and a member of the defensive end for the Griffons 2003-2006, St. Joseph, Mo. Kody is a student at Western. Alumni Association Board of Directors. and earned All-MIAA, first-team honors his last three seasons. KATY ALVAREZ ’05, and Daniel Seaboldt were AMANDA JO GANN ’06, and Alan Beers were married Sept. 16, 2007. The couple resides in married Sept. 8, 2007. The couple resides in IAN WHITE ’07 and Brandy Voltmer Kansas City, Mo. St. Joseph, Mo. were married Dec. 22, 2007. The couple resides in St. Joseph, Mo., and Brandy CHRIS CLARK ’05, is a multimedia coordinator BRICE GARNETT ’06, earned a second is a Western student. for the City of St. Joseph, Mo. place finish in a golf regional qualifier, and ANDREW DAVIS ’05, and ERICA HIDRITCH played in the sectional tournament for a SHAWNA WRIGHT ’08, and Larry Farr were ’06 were married June 14, 2008. The couple spot in the U.S. Open. married Dec. 15, 2007. The couple resides in resides in Savannah, Ga. Mound City, Mo.

Maliali ministry – Rebekah Needham ’05 he first time Rebekah Needham ’05, The most difficult lessons and challenges long before she left for India, and then Tput on a sari, she had help from a came from within. she spent two months in England before friend, and it took her about an hour “India was a really personal returning to Cameron. Additionally, she to arrange the six meters of silk journey for me, but I felt like God plans to move to England this fall. correctly. The first time she put on a told me to go,” Rebekah says. “It was Traveling seems to be a family sari by herself, it took about half that difficult to face my insecurities, and I tradition, as well. Her maternal grand- time. By the time she left India after a was there all alone. My whole paradigm father was an oil engineer, so as a child, 10-month stay, she had the sari in place was challenged, but I became more her mother lived all over the world. in 15 minutes. confident, well rounded and more She met Rebekah’s father, a native of Sari-tying was just one of the solid in my faith.” England, when she was studying in lessons Rebekah learned from the Maliali She says it was difficult to adapt to London. Also, Rebekah’s sister, Rachael during her almost 9,000-mile journey the Indian culture, but it was a necessity Green ’02, studied in France on a Rotary from her hometown of Cameron, Mo., since she was there for a lengthy stay. scholarship the year after she graduated to the southwest tip of India. She “I’m a very outgoing person and I had from Western. (Western seems to be a volunteered at a private, English- to re-adjust and become more reserved speaking school, Bethany Academy, and less talkative.” And, she says it was Rebekah Needham ’05 in Vennikulam, Thiruvalia, Karali, hard to rarely go out alone; they are very teaching communication English skills protective of their women. to 500 students from nursery-school age “I came back very different through ninth-grade. because of how I had to change to fit in,” She says she also learned about Rebekah says. virus-carrying mosquitoes (not fun), a But no matter the challenges, she little of the Malayalam language has always loved to travel. In 2006, she (pronunciation is very difficult), all was crowned Miss Missouri Internation- about the three-month monsoon season al and became a spokesperson for the (it can be pouring rain and the sun will Children’s Hunger Fund (CHF) for the be out), and power outages (monsoon next year, speaking to churches and season again). But those were not the organizations across the country, in most difficult lessons, Rebekah says. Mexico and Peru. She wasn’t home very

26 Western Magazine alumnotes

Jason Riley ’96- Guitar Hero hen Jason Riley ’96, was about other artists. He is an adjunct guitar Wsix years old, his grandfather started instructor at both Western and Benedic- giving him banjo lessons, but Jason says, tine College in Atchison, Kan. “It just didn’t take.” Six years later, his Most weekends Jason can be found parents were kind of surprised when with guitar in hand (one of his seven he asked if he could buy a guitar and “work horses” - electric, acoustic or take lessons. classical), performing solo, duo or with That took. one of his bands - Under the Influence, a Today, the St. Joseph, Mo., native rock band now in their 16th year that in- is a professional guitarist, performing cludes his wife, Jolie ’93; Soca Jukebox, locally, regionally, nationally and a Caribbean steel drum band; the Jason internationally. Jason has produced three Riley trio; or the Nova Project, a group solo albums and six with groups, and that plays “classical prog” music has done commercials, and worked with composed by Western guitar faculty member Anthony Glise. Jason Reilly ’96 That group has performed in Europe on several occasions and “Some of my first students still plans to perform at a musical festival play. Many people that I gave their first family tradition, as well. Along with in France this fall. (Check out Jason’s lesson to, now have graduated with Rebekah and Rachael, their sister, complete performance schedule at guitar degrees. That makes me very Elizabeth, graduated from Western www.jasonriley.com.) proud to know I had a small part in that.” this past May, and brother, John, is a Jason, who earned a music – guitar Jason recently began teaching his freshman.) performance degree and Western’s first daughter, , how to play the “Travel broadens your horizons. commercial music degree, attempted to guitar. “I asked her what she wanted You have to be open minded. Anyone explain what it’s like to perform. “You to play (like she had a choice), and she who places themselves in that position get into a highly focused space or zone, said she’d start guitar lessons when she will be forced to grow as a person,” a special concentration that musicians was five.” And how is she doing? “She’s she says. use that is different from any other kind. earned a sticker every time.” He says An exciting part of her experience It allows you to be aware of everything he’ll wait a few years before starting in India, she says, was how her home- going on around you; it forces you to lessons with his younger son, Benjamin. town got behind the local Rotary when be in the moment. It’s a great feeling, “It wasn’t my intention to stay the group adopted the Bethany Academy especially when you are playing with in St. Joseph this long, but I couldn’t as its international literacy project. The good musicians.” And, “of course it feels have it any better,” Jason says. “I have Rotary collected several books, CDs and good when people clap for you.” everything I hoped for. I can’t think of DVDs from the community and sent them Today, hundreds of musicians of all anything I want to do that I can’t do to Rebekah for the academy. Rebekah ages can attribute some of their guitar right here.” also organized a letter-writing project for knowhow and love of the instrument to her Indian students to correspond with Jason, who began giving guitar lessons Editor’s note: It was a special treat for students in Cameron. just four years after he started taking me to meet Jason and interview him. Fast forward 10 years – what does she them himself. For several years, he Seven years ago, my son, who had never hope to be doing? Definitely two things, guided and influenced fledging shown the slightest interest in the guitar Rebekah says – still traveling and still musicians in Western’s continuing or any other musical instrument, decided volunteering. “I hope to have a home education guitar classes. to buy a guitar and enroll in Jason’s base but spend most of the year traveling; continuing education class on beginning I want to learn five to 10 languages and guitar. Six lessons later, it “took,” and conduct leadership programs around the my son has become an avid (and very world for children and youth.” good!) guitarist.

Fall 2008 27

alumnotes

In Memory ... We honor those alumni who have recently passed away. If you want us to include someone in this listing, please call 816-271-5651, mail to Alumni Services Office, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507, or e-mail [email protected].

JANE M. BOWSER ’88, St. Joseph, Mo., (DILLINGER) GLOVER ’74, MARIELLA MANVILLE ’42, Wathena, Kan., April 25, 2008. Chillicothe, Mo., Jan. 29, 2008. April 25, 2008.

DOROTHY (ROSENTHAL) DEXTER COGEN ’39, BRIAN CRAIG HALLEY ’95 & ’99, Maryville, GWYNNETH A. (SWIFT) MEJIA ’71, St. Joseph, Encino, Calif., Jan. 25, 2008. Mo., March 21, 2008. Mo., Feb. 18, 2008.

NANCY J. (NOBLE) DAVENPORT JC, St. Joseph, MICHAEL J. HALLING ’72, Atchison, Kan., JAMES MODIS ’48, St. Joseph, Mo., Mo., March 2008. Feb. 5, 2008. May 22, 2008.

JAMIE A. DAWSON ’01, St. Joseph, Mo., NELL J. HEATH JC, Edgerton, Mo., MICHAEL N. O’CONNOR ’79, Springfield, Mo., Jan. 25, 2008. April 5, 2008. March 22, 2008.

DOUGLAS W. DWYER JC, St. Joseph, Mo., LOUISE HEES ’38, St. Joseph, Mo., SGT. MAJ. RICHARD A. PAQUETTE (RET.), March 27, 2008. May 11, 2008. St. Joseph, Mo., May 11, 2008.

HAZEL C. (WRIGHT) EASLEY ’84, Cassville, DOUGLAS E. JOHN ’85, St. Joseph, Mo., RONALD E. POWELL JC, Sun City, Ariz., Mo., March 15, 2008. March 18, 2008. March 24, 2008.

KAREN A. (WHITE) EZZELL ’07, St. Joseph, Mo., KAREN R. KEMPER ’93, Cameron, Mo., FRANCES (MINER) SANSONE SCHELLHORN Feb. 29, 2008. May 26, 2008. JC, St. Joseph, Mo., Feb. 17, 2008.

V. LAVONE FEIST ’92, St. Joseph, Mo., ANNA L. KNEIB JC, St. Joseph, Mo., ROBERT F. TINDALL JR. JC, Topeka, Kan., April 25, 2008. April 10, 2008. April 22, 2008.

LARRY E. GARTON ’73, St. Joseph, Mo., ANNA LEE LITVAK ’41, St. Joseph, Mo., TRUMAN E. WILSON ’47, St. Joseph, Mo., Jan. 31, 2008. March 22, 2008. June 11, 2008. Truman served in the Missouri House of Representatives for two years and in MICHAEL GLENN ’87, St. Joseph, Mo., JAMES E. MCCARTHY ’77, Gower, Mo., the State Senate for 20 years. Truman Wilson March 6, 2008. April 16, 2008. Hall on campus is named in his honor.

Tell us what’s new!

Name ______Maiden ______Class of ______

Spouse ______Class of ______

Address ______City, State ______Zip______

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What’s New ______

______

______Western League for Excellence • 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt 111, St. Joseph, MO 64507 28 www.missouriwestern.edu/Foundation • 816-271-5648 Return to: Alumni Services Office, 4525 Downs Drive, St. Joseph, MO 64507 because it is a great “Weuniversity support and a great assetWestern to the community, and we are happy to support the Western League for Excellence. The League provides opportunities for students beyond the classroom, as it funds experiences such as conferences and speaking engagements. Also, the League’s unrestricted funds give Western more flexibility to respond to needs that arise.”

Pete and Staci ’92, Gray, Charter Members of the Western League for Excellence Founder’s Circle, with their sons, Zachary, 12; Alec, 7; and Mitchell, 3.

Western League for Excellence • 4525 Downs Drive, Spratt 111, St. Joseph, MO 64507 www.missouriwestern.edu/Foundation • 816-271-5648 Appreciating our history –

Ronald S. Reed Jr.

his past summer, the campus and Tcommunity learned a little more about the university’s history, thanks to local attorney Ron Reed Jr., who, as a state representative from 1965-1970, worked diligently to ensure that Western would become a four-year institution. Ron recently gathered his

experiences of the legislative struggle that led to Western’s creation in a booklet, “Reflections on the Founding

of Missouri Western State University,” and a book signing and reception was held on campus in June. At the reception, it was announced that the Board of Governors approved a resolution to rename the central campus entrance from Mitchell Avenue to Downs Drive, “Ronald S. Reed Jr. Way.” At the book signing, Ron credited the support of the St. Joseph community Top: State Rep. Ronald S. Reed Jr., for passing a bond issue to buy the land second from right, was in attendance for the new campus and build the first when Gov. Warren Hearnes signed the bill buildings. “St. Joseph voters responded that made Western a four‑year institution. overwhelmingly and magnificently,” Bottom left: Ronald S. Reed Jr. signs copies of his book at a ceremony at “Missouri Western Ron said. “Missouri Western always Western in June. More than 100 attended. has and continues to be a very real Bottom right: Building the new campus. always has and continues to be a community university.” Dr. M.O. Looney, Western’s president from 1967‑1983, center, surveys work on one very real community university.” of the first campus buildings in 1969. - Ronald Reed Jr., state representative from 1965-1970

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Liberty, MO 64068 Missouri Western State University Permit No. 939 4525 Downs Drive St. Joseph, Missouri 64507