VOLUME VII JUNE NUMBER 7 EDITION 2019 NORTHEASTERN A&M COLLEGE

The Oklahoma State Regents honored retirees Dr. Hale and Dr. Betz.

Donna and I could not have been more honored “to have celebrated this historic occasion with so many alumni, students and friends of NEO A&M College. Our kickoff celebration established a high bar for the rest of our Centennial year. Dr. Jeff Hale, NEO A&M College President” NEO Graduates Nearly 450 Students during 18/19 School Year Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College been given wonderful gifts and it’s our job the Math and Science Department Steve (NEO) held its 98th commencement to protect and cherish those gifts. Some of Dixon honored Amber Oerly, an Agriculture exercise on May 9, On Red Robertson the greatest things we can do are to love Business graduate from Booneville, Mo. Field. Representative Ben Loring, District 7 and serve others, support our community, Chair of the Business and Technology Representative in the , and continue to learn. You’ve all likely found Department Ms. Joy Bauer honored Kristi delivered the keynote address to a packed out that one of the greatest things you Roach, a Business Administration and Art stadium at the event. Along with Rep. accomplished here at NEO was learning major from Fairland, Okla. Loring, Mr. Rick Davis of the OSU A&M Board how to learn. Don’t ever stop that learning of Regents congratulated Dr. Hale and the process.” Finally, Chair of the Liberal Arts graduates for making NEO an outstanding Department Dr. Jeff Birdsong honored NEO also honored thre outstanding Colten Shockley, a Pre-Music Education institution that is uniquely suited to serve graduates from the schools of Liberal Arts, northeastern Oklahoma. graduate from Riverton, Kan. To see photos Agriculture and Natural Sciences, and of the evening, check Facebook.com/ “We are emotional beings, physical Human Environmental Sciences. Chair of gogoneo. beings, mental beings, and spiritual beings,” said Rep. Loring during his address. “We’ve

NEO RODEO FINISHES SECOND AMONG TWO-YEARS, QUALIFIES TWO FOR COLLEGE COMMENCEMENT RECEPTION NEO PRESIDENT JEFF HALE ANNOUNCES 10 NATIONAL FINALS RODEO 2 RETIREMENT AFTER 11 YEARS OF SERVICE NEO PINS 2019 NURSING CLASS 6-7 NEO SOPHOMORE COMPETES AT NATIONAL NEO PINS 2019 AMERICAN INDIAN CENTER FOR YOUNG FARMERS AND RANCHERS 3 EXCELLENCE GRADUATES TWO NEO BASKETBALL PLAYERS EARN 11 NEO STUDENT BODY GOVERNMENT UNVEILS CLASS GIFT 8 ALL-AMERICAN HONORS CONFERENCE NEO RECOGNIZES HONORS PROGRAM GRADUATES NEO ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR EMBARKS ON NEO PINS 2019 MLT AND PTA CLASSES THREE NEO ALUMNI PICKED UP DURING 2019 12 CROSS-COUNTRY BIKE TRIP 4 NEO FACULTY UNVEILS CHIMES TOWER RESTORATION NFL DRAFT 9 NEO ANNOUNCES JALEE DOLLARHIDE AS HEAD NEO PRESIDENT’S PARTNERS DONATE FUNDS TO COACH FOR THE LADY NORSE VOLLEYBALL JUMPSTART PAPER RECYCLING AT NEO PROGRAM 5 TWO NEO STUDENTS JOIN THE ALL-OKLAHOMA ACADEMIC TEAM Commencement Reception Dr. Hale hosted a reception to welcome OSU A&M Regents Dr. Trudy Milner and Rick Davis Prior to the 2019 NEO commencement ceremony. He also welcomed commencement speaker Representative Ben and Mrs. Barbara Loring. During the reception, Dr. Hale and Norwegian Legion Director Adam Compton presented an honorary diploma to the family of Jesse Hernandez. Dr. Hale also recognized top performing programs starting with the The NEO Equestrian Team, which had tremendous success under the direction of Coach Amanda Jones and Assistant Coach Josi Reed. For three years running, the team has been named the Regional Champions. NEO was the only two-year college represented at the national championship show and finished fourth-place overall. In addition to the numerous individual top-ten finishes, Sophomore Carla Carfora placed second in the Team Open Horsemanship Division and Freshman Anna Woolsey was second in Individual Open Reining. The second group recognized was the NEO Men’s Basketball Team. First-year Coach Jeremy Jackson had a fantastic season, going 27-7 overall and 14-2 in the Conference. The record was enough to win the OCAC title and Jackson was named the OCAC Coach of the Year. Rudi Williams, who hit a buzzer-beater jumper to beat Conners in the Region II Championship game, was also named an All-American and Kyle Lukasiewicz was a member of the NEO Top Ten Freshmen class. The third group was the NEO Honors Program, which hosted the inaugural Honors and Service Learning Symposium in April. Students from many fields of expertise presented original research and reflection presentations. This year, the Honors Program recognized outstanding achievement within the program, with Jordyn Miller winning the Outstanding Service Award, Hannah Jenkins winning the Outstanding Research Award for her symposium presentation, and Albana Baftiri being named the 2019 Honors Program Outstanding Graduate. The fourth group was the NEO Rodeo Program under NEO Coach of the Year Kolby Ungeheuer. The NEO Men’s Team placed second among two-year colleges in the region and fifth overall. The Women’s team also earned second in the region among two- year colleges. Freshman Dawson Turner placed third in the region in tie-down roping, earning him a trip to Casper, Wyo., for the College National Finals Rodeo this summer. Sophomore Ethan Griffin earned his ticket as a team roping header after placing second in the region. Coach Taylor Graham and the Livestock Judging Team also had tremendous success this year, finishing top-ten in every event. This year was extraordinarily special as Sophomore Alexa Montagne was named an All-American. She won the Flint Hills Mid Continent Judging Contest and has placed top-ten in several more during her time at NEO. In addition to the group honorees, Dr. Hale presented the President's Profile in Courage Award to Hannah Jenkins, Fortune Kede, and Bethy Mununga for their academic and athletic success often through adversity.

From left: Dr. Hale, Donna Hale, Bethy Mununga, - 2 - Fortune Kede, Hannah Jenkins NEO Pins 2019 Nursing Class NEO pinned the 2019 class of nursing graduates during commencement week. At the ceremony, NEO Nursing recognized Maddison Vernon, Morgan Gibson, Nikki Rhodes, Myla Miller, and Chad Wiens for their outstanding achievement while enrolled at NEO. Chad Wiens, Myla Miller, NEO Nursing Director Debbie Morgan, Nikki Rhodes, Morgan Gibson, and Maddison Vernon

NEO Pins 2019 American Indian Center for Excellence Graduates The American Indian Center for Excellence hosted the 2019 pinning ceremony during commencement week. Miss Indian NEO, Ravyn Whitebird delivered the invocation and Mr. delivered the keynote address. At the event, Chief Ethel Cook was honored as the Distinguished Leader Award winner for his contributions and cooperation to NEO and the American Indian Center for Excellence. Students Pinned: Arin Barnes Emily Morris Jerffery Cher-Aime Nashina Blalock Jordyn Miller Melissa Baker Jacey Phillips Debbie Griffin Gavin Bohn Odessa Deaton Cheyenne Watson

NEO Student Body Government Unveils Class Gift The NEO Student Body SBG Award Winners: Government unveiled their class Outstanding Faculty from Liberal Arts: gift and named 2019 staff and Dr. Lesli Deichman faculty award winners during Outstanding Faculty from Ag/Nat. NEO commencement week. Sci.: Rob Rea Student Body President Robbie Outstanding Faculty from Human From left: AD Joe Renfro, Lori Hackwell, Dr. David Loving, Cathy Phillips and his team unveiled a Environ. Sci.: Lori Hackwell Cunningham, Kathy Wenzel commemorative plaque in front of Outstanding Staff: Ryan Orcutt the NEO Fine Arts Auditorium as the 2019 sophomore class gift. The Athletic Award Winners: building is scheduled to undergo Lori Hackwell improvements in the next five years. Dr. David Loving The SBG also named outstanding Cathy Cunningham staff and faculty members for their Kathy Wenzel annual awards. In addition, the athletic department joined the reception and named its inaugural From left: Dr. Jeff Hale, Lori Hackwell, Rob Rea, Ryan Orcutt, Amy Ishmael, Athletic Award winners. Robbie Phillips - 3 - NEO Recognizes Honors Program Graduates The NEO Honors Program hosted the inaugural graduate awards during commencement week. Along with graduates receiving certificates of completion for the program, special recognitions were awarded to outstanding students. Dr. David Loving gave the keynote address. Outstanding Research Award: Hannah Jenkins Outstanding Service Award: Jordyn Miller Honors Program Distinguished Graduate: Albana Baftiri Honors Program Graduates: From left: Dr. David Loving, Amber Oerly, Hannah Jenkins, Nicholas Hughlett, Hannah Jenkins Albana Baftiri Nicholas Hughlett Albana Baftiri, Cassidy Fletcher, Jordyn Miller, Director Andrew Olson, Assistant Jordyn Miller Amber Oerly Cassidy Fletcher Director Keeley Adams

NEO Pins 2019 MLT and PTA Classes

The Medical Laboratory Technician and Physical Therapist Assistant program graduates received pins during commencement week at NEO. NEO alumnus and Physical Therapist Assistant Klayton Bridges delivered the keynote address at the event.

From left: Sidney Morgan, Chip NEO Faculty Unveils Chimes Tower Restoration Hammons, Brenda Lucas, Alisen Anderson, Regent Rick The Faculty Association led by the Faculty Davis, Regent Dr. Trudy Milner, Senate updated the Chimes Tower as their Dr. Jeff Hale, Donna Hale, Dr. David Loving, Andrew Olson, Centennial Year Project. Regents Dr. Trudy Milner LaShawna Powers and Rick Davis joined Dr. and Mrs. Hale at the unveiling. The Chimes Tower was cleaned and painted platinum to reflect the Centennial, the audio system was restored, and the lights were replaced in the lantern. President of the Faculty Senate Mrs. Alisen Anderson and President-Elect Mr. Chip Hammons joined their officer team to unveil the information sign on the north side of the reflecting pool.

- 4 - I’m so grateful to the President’s “Partners for helping us jumpstart this process. Chase Fairweather, NEO Natural” Resource Instructor

From left: Albana Baftiri, Dulcinea Wenzel, Shelby Hubbard, Dr. Jeff Hale

NEO President’s Partners Donate Funds Albana and Dulcinea were to Jumpstart Paper Recycling at NEO nominated“ for the All-USA Academic NEO Natural Resource Instructor Chase Fairweather Team for their leadership, academics, will be taking a few more laps around campus as he and community service. I am proud begins to implement a paper recycling program. With a donation of $700 from the NEO President’s Partners, that we have such outstanding Fairweather notes that the program is intended to students representing NEO College. educate not only students, but also faculty and staff Dr. Bethene Fahnestock, Vice President for members about the importance of paper recycling. ” “The Sierra Club already collects plastic bottles and Academic Affairs cans on campus, but there wasn’t any paper recycling solution in place,” said Fairweather. “On a college Two NEO Students Join the All-Oklahoma campus, many instructors print out guided notes for Academic Team their students, but if students don’t show up those notes may end up in the trash. I pinpointed overprinting in Two students from NEO traveled to the State Capitol offices as one of the major areas of need, so that’s what early in March and were honored as outstanding two-year this project is geared toward.” college students. Albana Baftiri and Dulicnea Wenzel were named to the All-Oklahoma/USA Coca-Cola Fairweather has placed half of the 64, 14-gallon Academic Team as two of the forty students recognized recycling tubs in offices around campus. Fairweather by the Oklahoma Council of Two-Year Colleges and the and members of the Forestry Club will visit the offices Oklahoma Association of Community Colleges (OACC) in and collect the paper as need dictates. partnership with Phi Theta Kappa (PTK). “Eventually, I hope to have a system that is self- “Albana and Dulcinea were nominated for the All- supporting, but the main goal is to educate people on USA Academic Team for their leadership, academics, and campus about how precious our resources are and community service,” said Dr. Bethene Fahnestock, Vice how little value we sometimes place on them,” added President for Academic Affairs. “I am proud that we have Fairweather. “I’m so grateful to the President’s Partners such outstanding students representing NEO College.” for helping us jumpstart this process.” Baftiri is a Natural Science major from Miami, and For more information about the paper recycling Wenzel is a General Studies major from Miami. Both initiative on campus, contact Fairweather at fairwej@ students are members of NEO’s PTK, of which Baftiri is neo.edu or to learn more about becoming an NEO the Vice President of Scholarship and Wenzel is the Vice President’s Partner, contact Jennifer Walker at Jennifer. President of Fellowship. Baftiri has been recognized as [email protected]. the 2018-19 PTK Distinguished Officer and is a member of the NEO Honors Program. Wenzel was recognized as a Top Ten Freshman and was the 2018 NEO Homecoming Eventually, I hope to have a system Queen. that is self-supporting, but the main The OACC also awarded NEO Freshman Shelby “ Hubbard with a $1,000 Tuition Waver Scholarship. The goal is to educate people on campus scholarship will provided $500 per semester during the about how precious our resources are upcoming academic year. and how little value we sometimes For more information about the OACC, visit okcommunitycolleges.com or for more information about place on them. PTK, contact LaShawna Powers at Lashawna.powers@ Chase Fairweather, NEO Natural Resource neo.edu. Instructor ”

- 5 - Eleven years ago, the OSU A&M Board of Regents gave my family and me the opportunity of a lifetime and since 2008, the NEO students, faculty, staff, and alumni gave “ us memories that will be with us forever. Dr. Jeff Hale, NEO A&M College President ” NEO President Jeff Hale Announces Retirement After 11 Years of Service Following one of the most dynamic decades in college NEO achieved new academic heights under Dr. Hale’s history, Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College President Dr. leadership with the introduction of the Center for Academic Jeff Hale recently announced his retirement. Dr. Hale will step Success and Advising. CASA, along with many other student down from official duties on July 31 after 11 years of service. support programs allowed Hale’s administration to raise “Eleven years ago, the OSU A&M Board of Regents gave average graduation rates from just under 300 each year, my family and me the opportunity of a lifetime and since to nearly 450 every spring. The growth occurred as the 2008, the NEO students, faculty, staff, and alumni gave us Oklahoma legislature cut funding to higher education by memories that will be with us forever,” Hale said. “Their work more than 30%. ethic, motivation to excel, and strong personal character Along with growth in academic programs and improved motivated me to do by best each and every day. My wife students completion measures, Dr. Hale cultivated a culture Donna and I have a combined sixty-five years of service to of nationally competitive athletic teams. Since reintroducing public education in Oklahoma. We are grateful for all the help the wrestling program to the NEO campus in 2013, student- and support that we’ve received across the state, especially athletes have claimed three team national championships during our days in Miami, Norman, and Durant.” and ten individual national titles. As the only two-year public Arriving on the NEO campus following a devastating college in Oklahoma with a football team, NEO has claimed flood that damaged much of campus in 2007, Dr. Hale set out regional and conference titles and recently had three alumni to rebuild and shape the college into the premier two-year selected in the 2019 NFL Draft. institution in the for academic achievement, Competitive agriculture teams have also flourished athletic accomplishment, and co-curricular engagement. under Dr. Hale, including the Equestrian National Champion During his tenure, NEO cemented its reputation as the largest Brittany Abernathy in 2017. Horse and Livestock judging two-year residential college in the state of Oklahoma. teams consistently place in the top-ten nationally under - 6 - Their work ethic, motivation to excel, and strong personal character motivated me to do by best each and every day. My wife Donna and I have a combined sixty-five years of service “to public education in Oklahoma. We are grateful for all the help and support that we’ve received across the state, especially during our days in Miami, Norman, and Durant. Dr. Jeff Hale, NEO A&M College President ”

Hale-era coaches, and the NEO Rodeo Team is sending two in the Mustang Public School System, he began his higher competitors to the College National Finals Rodeo. In all, education career at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He NEO’s nine intercollegiate athletic teams and four competitive soon was selected to be the first director of the Center agriculture teams answered Dr. Hale’s call for national of Student Life at the , where he success. spent ten years. In 2000, he became the Vice President for Perhaps what Dr. Hale will be most known for after his Enrollment Management and Marketing, and Director of decade at NEO is his dedication to campus improvement and the Intercollegiate Athletics Department at Southeastern renovation. Working with business partners and regents, Dr. Oklahoma State University in Durant, Okla. Hale led over $70 million in campus improvements, beginning “Dr. Hale has provided outstanding leadership to NEO with the Carter Student Union renovation. Improvements during his 11 years as president,” said Calvin Anthony, Chair continue today with the recent completion of the NEO Soccer of the A&M Board of Regents. “On behalf of the entire Board, Locker Rooms and the renovations of Copen Hall. Over a I want to thank Dr. Hale for his service to Northeastern dozen buildings were constructed or renovated during Dr. Oklahoma A&M College, its students, faculty, and staff. As Hale’s tenure, including two new housing buildings in the we all know, considerable budget challenges have marked NEO Suites and Milligan Hall. the past several years. In spite of these challenges, Dr. Hale Dr. Hale also focused on creating a fiscally stable has ensured that NEO continues to provide outstanding institution through a combination of fundraising and educational opportunities for its students. We commend him thoughtful spending. As Oklahoma reduced support to higher for a job well done and wish him and Donna the very best in education, Dr. Hale encouraged scholarship growth and the years ahead.” increased revenue streams to support the college’s mission. “Oklahomans need and deserve a system of higher He partnered with the NEO Development Foundation to education that prepares them for a highly competitive 21st bring assets from around $750,000 in 2009 to more than $7 century world and I’m hopeful Governor Stitt and legislative million today. This growth in funding allows NEO to award leaders will value their opportunity to invest in the next 66 scholarships producing a record $140,000 each year in generation of young learners,” Hale concluded. student support. Hale plans to relocate to the Oklahoma City area to be An alumnus of El Reno Junior College (now Redlands close to family. The A&M Board of Regents will soon lay out a Community College) in Reno, Okla., Dr. Hale earned his B.A. plan to conduct an inclusive and extensive search for the next and Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma. After teaching NEO president.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM DR. HALE’S TENURE:

 OVER $70 MILLION IN CAMPUS  RECEIVED THE LARGEST SINGLE GIFT IN  14 REGION II CHAMPIONSHIPS: (6 SOFTBALL, IMPROVEMENTS NEO HISTORY AT $1.1 MILLION 3 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL, 2 MEN'S  MILLIGAN HALL  ESTABLISHED PRESIDENT’S PARTNERS BASKETBALL, 2 MEN'S SOCCER AND 1  NEO WRESTLING BUILDING PROGRAM WOMEN'S SOCCER)  NEO SUITES  RE-INTRODUCED MISS INDIAN NEO  14 FINISHED SEASON RANKED IN THE  SOCCER LOCKER ROOM PAGEANT NJCAA TOP 20: (6 SOFTBALL-2ND IN 2015,  LAB/SCIENCE BUILDING  ESTABLISHED THE AMERICAN INDIAN 3 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL-8TH IN 2011-12,  STUDENT UNION RENOVATION CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE 2 MEN'S BASKETBALL-10TH IN 2015-16, 2  RED ROBERTSON FIELD RENOVATION  INTRODUCED THE TOP TEN FRESHMAN FOOTBALL-8TH IN 2017)  IVAN CROSSLAND SENIOR FOOTBALL PROGRAM TO RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING  REINTRODUCED NORSE STARS DANCE COMPLEX STUDENTS TEAM AND WRESTLING  KAH-NE HALL RENOVATION  CREATED THE NEO HONORS PROGRAM  INTRODUCED MEN’S AND WOMEN’S  CUNNINGHAM HALL RENOVATION  OVERSAW THE CREATION OF THE NEO/ SOCCER  ONGOING: COPEN HALL RENOVATION GRDA CROP RESEARCH FARM  AGRICULTURE SUCCESS  PLANNED: FINE ARTS RENOVATION  ATHLETIC SUCCESS  EQUESTRIAN: THREE REGIONAL  SHIPLEY HALL RENOVATION  20 OKLAHOMA COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS, 2017 INDIVIDUAL  ANIMAL SCIENCE BUILDING CONFERENCE CROWNS: (6 SOFTBALL, NATIONAL CHAMPION, 15 NATIONAL  SYNAR FARM IMPROVEMENTS 5 WOMEN'S BASKETBALL, 2 FOOTBALL QUALIFIERS  INSTALLED 32,000 FEET OF FIBER-OPTIC (SWJCFC), 2 MEN'S BASKETBALL, 2 MEN'S  EQUINE JUDGING: 20 COMPETITION CABLE AND MASSIVE SECURITY UPGRADE SOCCER, 2 BASEBALL AND 1 WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIPS  SECURED OVER $10 MILLION IN FEDERAL SOCCER)  LIVESTOCK JUDGING: 30 TOP TEN FINISHES GRANTS  RODEO: 10 COLLEGE NATIONAL FINALS RODEO QUALIFIERS

- 7 - It’s a blessing and honor to be named an All-American. I feel like I am extremely happy and all“ my hard work has paid off and I excited for Ravel’s success. He really want to thank coach Rowland, hit“ the ground running and I am who brought me into this program proud of the determination that and allowed me to grow as a player he displayed at NEO. and develop my game. Jeremy Jackson, Golden Norse Basketball” Bethy Mununga , Lady Norse Sophomore” Head Coach Two NEO Basketball Players Earn All-American Honors

NEO basketball added to their success this year as I really want to thank coach Rowland, who brought me two athletes were selected for All-American honors. Lady into this program and allowed me to grow as a player and Norse Sophomore Bethy Mununga earned First-Team develop my game.” All-American honors for her record-breaking season and First-year Golden Norse Basketball Head Coach Jeremy Golden Norse Sophomore Ravel Moody was selected as an Jackson went 27-7 overall and claimed both an OCAC and Honorable Mention All-American. Region II Title. Moody, a sophomore from Denver, Colo., led Mununga, an international student from Belgium, is the the team with 13.9 points-per-game and 7.3 rebounds per second player under Coach Jim Rowland to earn First-Team game. All-American Honors. During her time at NEO, she broke “I am extremely happy and excited for Ravel’s success,” record for single season double-doubles, career double- said Jackson. He hit the ground running and I am proud of doubles, and career rebounds. She also scored over 1,000 the determination that he displayed at NEO.” points at NEO and was named a Top 40 JUCO All-Star. In addition to being named an Honorable-Mention All- “It means a lot to have another All-American. She’s a American, Moody was named the Region II MVP. He has very special kid and to have someone that had 29 double signed a letter of intent to play at Tennessee State in fall doubles out of 32 games this season and 46 in 2 years says 2019. a lot about her talent,” said Coach Rowland. “When athletes come to NEO they hope to develop as a player and she has “I know that he will make an immediate impact and have proven that NEO is a perfect proving ground.” great success,” added Jackson. “He’ll be playing in one of the strongest conferences in the country and I believe in his Heading to the University of South Florida, Mununga ability to be a game-changer.” will continue her basketball career in the fall. For more information on basketball programs at NEO, “It’s a blessing and honor to be named an All-American,” contact [email protected]. said Mununga. “I feel like all my hard work has paid off and

- 8 - NEO Announces Jalee Dollarhide as Head Coach for the Lady Norse Volleyball Program Three NEO Alumni Picked Up During 2019 NFL Draft NEO announced that Jalee Dollarhide NEO recently received a bit transferring to Western Kentucky will become the head coach for the Lady more representation in the National University, he picked up 44 Norse Volleyball Team. Dollarhide was Football League (NFL) as three receptions and 530 yards. tapped for the position as Eric Iverson alumni players were picked up Darwin Thompson exploded stepped down to focus on his duties as during the 2019 NFL Draft. Tight End on to the scene in 2016, picking head softball coach. Jace Sternberger went to the Green up over 1,000 yard rushing and “Jalee Dollarhide has participated not Bay Packers in round 3, Running Back nine touchdowns in his first year. In only as an assistant coach here at NEO for Darwin Thompson was drafted by the his second year, he led the nation the last 3 years, but was also a student- Kansas City Chiefs in round 6, and in all-purpose yards, picking up athlete as well,” said Athletic Director Joe Tight End Mik’Qwan Deane initially 1,619 yards on 185 carries and 13 Renfro. “If there is anyone that can attest signed a free agent contract with receptions. While at NEO, he earned to our ability to create a great environment the Seattle Seahawks and has since Second-Team All-American, First- for young student athletes here at NEO, it been picked up by the Buffalo Bills. Team All-Conference, and Southwest is someone that not only attended school All three are alumni of the Junior College Football Conference and competed here, but also coached #staygolden class of NEO football. Offensive MVP honors. After under the great mentoring and guidance of Deane played under Coach Ryan transferring to Utah State University our legendary coach, Eric Iverson.” Held in 2015 and then Coach Clay for one season, Thompson again Dollarhide has been with the NEO Patterson in 2016. Thompson played rushed for over 1,000 yards and had volleyball program for 6 years in both a under Patterson in 2016 and 2017, 23 receptions, with one going for 88 playing and coaching capacity. During her while Sternberger joined Thompson yards. Thompson will join the league playing career at NEO she helped lead her in 2017. MVP in Kansas City to fill a backfield team to a 25-4 overall record, become the shy on experience. “It’s a testament to the hard district champion, and finished 10th place work of these young men, but also Sterberger played a year at at the NJCAA National Tournament. where our program has been going NEO and earned First-Team All- After graduating from NEO in over the past several years,” said Conference in 2017. On 21 receptions, 2015, Dollarhide went on to complete a Booster President Jim Rexwinkle. he averaged 16 yards per catch and bachelor’s degree at Missouri Southern “We’re so proud of Jace, Darwin, and totaled 336 yards for the season. State University in 2018. She is currently Mik’Qwan and the entire coaching His high-flying abilities proved the pursuing a Master of Human, Health, staff of NEO. These three athletes are perfect fit for the Texas A&M Aggies’ Performance and Recreation with an the most visible right now, but we are tight-end heavy offense. In one emphasis on sport management and sport extremely proud of the several dozen season, he caught 48 passes for 832 leisure at Pittsburg State University. student-athletes who transferred to yards and racked up 10 touchdowns. division I and II universities.” Sternberger will travel north to play “I’m excited to help grow this program and see where we can take it in the future,” Deane made an impact at NEO alongside Aaron Rogers, Jimmy said Dollarhide at a press conference. as a team leader and motivator, a Graham, and Davonte Adams. “I’m very thankful for Dr. Hale and Coach trait that should be useful in the Golden Norse Football under Iverson and their faith in me to lead this Seahawks system. Starting in 2015, Head Coach Zach Allen looks program.” he picked up three touchdowns to build in its success as 2018 in nine games. However, Deane Conference Co-Champions and Dollarhide lives in Carl Junction, Mo., flourished under the offense-heavy continue to develop top-level with her daughter Jayaa. She will officially style of Coach Patterson in 2016, athletic talent as student-athletes begin as head coach during the summer averaging nearly 15 yards per receive outstanding classroom term. For more information about NEO reception on 22 receptions. After instruction at NEO. basketball, contact Lisa Severe at Lisa. [email protected].

- 9 - From left: Graduate Assistant Brady Hagler, CNFR Qualifier Dawson Turner, CNFR Qualifier Ethan Griffin, Coach Kolby Ungeheuer

NEO Rodeo Finishes Second Among Two-Years, Qualifies Two for College National Finals Rodeo The NEO Rodeo Team wrapped up their spring rodeo roping with a time of 5.3 seconds. Sophomore Mackenzie season by traveling to Hays, Kan., and Guymon, Okla. Strong Buetcher from Iberia, Mo., took eighth in barrel racing, pushing finishes helped secure a second-place finish in the region the NEO women to yet another first place finish among two- among two-year colleges and fifth overall. Along with the year colleges. The men finished fourth in Guymon on the strong season, Sophomore Ethan Griffin and Freshman Dawson second place finish of Clay and the fifth-place finish of Griffin. Turner qualified to ride in the College National Finals Rodeo in “I’m very proud of all of these young men and women Casper, Wyo., in June. this year, they have all worked very hard and have continued The Rodeo Team traveled to Hays, Kan., to compete in to accomplish more each and every week as the season the Fort Hays State University Rodeo on April 20, where the progressed,” said Head Coach Kolby Ungeheuer. “It has been a women’s team finished first among two-year colleges and great year for NEO Rodeo and we were very excited to get two third overall. The men’s team finished second among two-year qualified for the CNFR! I expect both of these two young men to colleges and fourth overall. Freshman Rush Hodges, from have great success at this year’s National Rodeo!” Coweta, Okla., was the buckle winner Saturday night, winning Over the course of the season, riders have also been the average in Calf Roping. He was joined in the top ten by earning points in the hopes of qualifying for the College Sophomore Ethan Griffin, from Jay, Okla., who took second in National Finals Rodeo, held each year in Casper, Wyo. This year Team Roping, and Freshman Jake Clay, from Sapulpa, Okla., Dawson Turner and Ethan Griffin secured spots by finishing who claimed fifth in team roping. in top-three in the region. Turner gathered 440 points on the Sophomore Camrin Sellers from Cherokee, Kan., led the season in tie-down roping, giving him a third-place finish. Griffin women’s team with a second-place finish in Barrel Racing finished comfortably in second place after picking up 465 with a time of 34.26 seconds. She was joined by Sophomore points as a team-roping header. The pair will travel to Casper Addee Carter from Miami, Okla., who placed in the top-ten for in June to compete against the top college rodeo talent in the breakaway roping. nation. For more information on NEO Rodeo, contact Gentry Carder continued her success in Guymon at the Oklahoma Hutchison at [email protected]. Panhandle State University by placing second in breakaway It has been a great year for NEO Rodeo and we were very excited to get two qualified for the CNFR! I expect both of these two young “ men to have great success at this year’s National Rodeo!. Kolby Ungeheuer, Head Rodeo Coach ” - 10 - NEO Sophomore Competes at National Young Farmers and Ranchers Conference

NEO Sophomore Nathania McKenzie recently represented to be competitive and influential. One of my closest friends I the State of Oklahoma at the 2019 American Farm Bureau met at a Farm Bureau national convention and she is for sure Federation (AFBF) Fusion Conference’s Young Farmers and one of the most influential people I know. Discussion meet Ranchers (YF&R) National Discussion Meet. McKenzie, an gives us the opportunity to be open minded to new ideas and Animal Science major from Gravette, Ark., earned her spot on prepare to speak with people that don’t always see eye to eye.” the national stage after winning the state discussion meet in Norman, Okla. At the national contest, McKenzie made NEO history by becoming the first competitor to make it to the final The Annual AFBF Fusion Conference celebrating the AFBF sixteen competitors. In addition to YF&R, she is a member of centennial was themed “Brewing Agriculture’s Finest” and the Equestrian and Horse Judging Teams at NEO. took place in Milwaukee, Wis. During a Discussion Meet, students are judged based on their displayed understanding “The pride we have in Nathania is indescribable and she of the selected topics, as well as their ability to present made NEO history by advancing to the sweet sixteen,” said ideas. Participants at the conference discussed utilizing Farm Alisen Anderson, NEO Agriculture instructor and club sponsor. Bureau to develop creative ways to address pressing issues in “Her knowledge and passion for the agriculture industry is so agriculture. incredible.” For more information about the Young Farmers and “Competing at the national level is an eye-opening Ranchers Club or to join, contact Alisen Anderson at alisen@ experience,” said McKenzie. “You learn more about what it takes neo.edu.

- 11 - SPOTLIGHT

I’ve always loved solitary NEO Adjunct Instructor Embarks places.Cycling is fast enough on Cross-Country Bike Trip “to cover long distances, NEO Adjunct Government Instructor but slow enough to take in Martin Lively has embarked on a solo 2,500- the smaller details of the mile bike trip during the summer break. landscapes that people often Lively designed the course after completing miss. It’s really the goldilocks the 500-mile Biking Across Kansas (BAK) ride in 2015 and plans to ride from Miami to way to do a road trip. Seattle, Washington. Martin Lively, NEO Adjunct” “I’ve always loved solitary places,” said Government Instructor Lively when discussing his reasoning for undertaking this trip. “Cycling is fast enough to cover long distances, but slow enough to take in the smaller details of the landscapes that people often miss. It’s really the goldilocks way to do a road trip.” Following a brief delay due to severe weather and flooding in the Miami area, Lively embarked on the approximately 60 day trip on June 1, and plans to use the relatively flat first half as training for the hilly climbs in Montana. As part of his training regimen over the past several months, he has been loading his 1985 Raleigh Portage that have been converted into trail ways. Lively will be documenting his journey touring bike with equipment to simulate the While the destination of the trip is Seattle, on Instagram at @curiousaboutbison and a ride. Washington, Lively says he’s not focused link to his trail map can be found at https:// destination. ridewithgps.com/routes/29031036?privacy_ “I packed with the goal of meeting three “If I get 2,000 miles into the trip and code=jqv73BkzjqVfPtuv. He attributes his needs,” said Lively. “First, I need to be able journey to the Miami Cyclo-Paths and to carry several days of food and water in I feel like I’ve completed that goal, I’ll come home. My goal is to lose myself in encourages community members to find remote areas; second, I need to remain safe their local cycling group and meet new and protected from the elements; and third, the landscapes and experience the truth that we are small people and that our riders. Interested parties can contact Cyclo- I wanted to have a few creature comforts Paths at [email protected]. for when I’m physically or emotionally worn planet is not here to serve us, despite our down.” accomplishments.” One of the main aspects of the trip is Lively’s use of rail trails, or former rails lines

JORDAN ADAMS Editor | Stories | photos

ZULY WARE Graphic Design | Layout

NEW STUDENT HOUSING