KWU Contact--Fall 2019 by Kansas Wesleyan University

K A NSA S W E SLE YA N U N I V ER SI T Y

CONTACT Fall 2019

2019

A message from

President Matt Thompson

Why Athletics Matter at KWU For more than 100 years, Kansas Wesleyan has embraced athletics as a central part of the university experience. Initially, it was only men, but 50 years ago we were among the first to offer intercollegiate athletics options for women. The ability to play a sport one loves, while getting great academic preparation, has been rooted in our work. In many ways, my predecessors claimed the idea that we now recognize as the Power of AND. But why do we continue to do it? Athletics continue to be important to this generation of students. In addition, athletics drives recruitment and campus esprit de corps. However, more importantly than all of this, athletics is another vehicle for instilling in our students the traits we want demonstrated in a graduate. Athletics allows us, in a non-classroom setting, to teach teamwork, determination, goal-orientation, grit and resilience, time management, leadership, and communication skills. The soft skills learned in athletics, coupled with strong academic coursework, allows our graduates to be highly marketable and outstanding citizens. Studies show that employers want to hire former college student-athletes. In fact, given the option of a former studentathlete over another similarly qualified candidate, employers will select the athlete. They will even hire a student who has participated in sports over one who hasn't with a better college grade point average. The phenomenon of hiring former student-athletes is clearly demonstrated in our nearly 100% placement rate for employment and graduate schools. I tell our coaches that if we only offered athletics for wins, then we have wasted a lot of money and effort. We expect athletics to be a part of developing men and women into the people they are called to be. Sincerely,

Kansas Wesleyan University Fall 2019 Contact is the official magazine of Kansas Wesleyan University and is published by the Office of Marketing and Communications. Managing Editor: Paula Hermann Design: Amanda Colgrove ’15, G’18 Writing Assistance: David Toelle ’01, ’08 Bob Davidson Photo Credits: Tanner Colvin ’11 Amanda Colgrove ’15, G’18 Diane Marie Dowell Karen Bonar Send address changes to: Advancement Office 100 E. Claflin Ave. Salina, KS 67401 alumni@kwu.edu (785) 833-4341

Matthew R. Thompson, Ph.D., President and CEO P.S. — The same logic above also applies to our other extracurricular programs like music, debate, theater and DECA. Nearly 95% of our students are experiencing the Power of AND—and they are better for it.

2 NURSING

p. 8

New Education Center becomes a reality

8-15 CELEBRATING

50 Years of Women’s Athletics

2-3 HOMECOMING

& FAMILY WEEKEND

New events & inspiring celebrations

17 CLASS NOTES

Stay in touch with your class

On the Cover

KWU will celebrate 50 years of Women’s Athletics with events throughout the year. Kansas Wesleyan’s Stephanie Martinez was a 2019 NAIA Women’s Outdoor Track qualifier in the marathon. Lynette Wallace ’80, was an All-KCAC runner for the Coyotes. Read more on page 8

Major Gifts Give Nursing a Boost Nursing Education Center Underway Significant funding has bolstered the momentum of the Nursing program this summer. More than $2.75M in gifts has been received for the $5 million Nursing campaign, which will allow the construction of the $4.5 million Nursing Education Center and an additional $500K for Nursing annual and endowed student scholarships, faculty development, equipment and technology. This summer the university announced $1M gifts from Salina Regional Heath Center and the Salina Regional Health Center Foundation/CHIP, which included a former medical office building that is situated on the corner of Fourth Street and East Claflin Avenue. It will be the first new instruction-only facility on campus in 50 years and will include inside and outside renovations. “This effort falls right in line with the mission of Salina Regional Health Center and serving the health care needs of the region,” Salina Regional Health Center president/ COO, Joel Phelps said. “We believe this program will help produce quality nurses who will serve North Central Kansas.” The 13,400-square-foot, two-floor building will house a performance lab, simulation suite, testing area, large classrooms, a multi-media conference room, student study area and faculty offices. The simulation and clinical laboratories will give students handson practice in bedside care, simulated patient scenarios and collaborative learning opportunities with other health care disciplines, all leading to a comprehensive nursing education, which will prepare students to go into immediate practice after passing national board certification testing

“Our goal is to educate Nursing students to fill a critical need in our local health care facilities.” — Dr. Matt Thompson and licensing. The renovation is designed to handle educational facilities for 80 Nursing students—40 each in the junior and senior classes. The university also received $1M from the Jack and Donna Vanier Family, as well as funds from the Sunderland Foundation, the Dane Hansen Foundation, the Verla Nesbitt Joscelyn Foundation and 11 additional individual supporters and organizations. “We are appreciative of the Vanier family’s commitment to KWU and the region,” said Dr. Thompson. “Our goal is to educate Nursing students to fill a critical need in our local health care facilities. It is our commitment to meet that challenge, and the Vaniers are role models in helping us provide the tools to do exactly that.” KWU also received $750K from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation

of Tulsa, OK. The funding from the Mabee Foundation will be awarded to the university as a challenge grant. “This is a wonderful opportunity providing momentum for alumni and friends of KWU to join us with an investment in the future of Kansas Wesleyan University and our nursing program,” says Ken Oliver, senior director of Development. “We are so grateful for the opportunity to receive this grant from the Mabee Foundation and for everyone who has given to the new Nursing Education Center. Through the generosity of our current and future donors we will be able to ensure the success of this campaign.” The university will celebrate the start of the Nursing Center Project and recognize donors on Thursday, October 10 at 5:30 p.m. in front of the building at 135 E. Claflin Avenue. The event is open to the community. For more information on the Nursing Education Center campaign, please contact Ken Oliver, senior director of Development, ken.oliver@kwu.edu or (785) 833-4342.

Lead Gifts* Mac Steele Randy and Mary Ann St. Clair Kent and Pat Lambert Mark and Laurie Lacher Kevin Reay Lee and Christine Young Royce and Donna Young Pauline Eaton Barbara Hauptli Steve and Lorraine Richards Morrie and Sydney Soderberg Salina Rehional Health Center Salina Rehional Health Center Foundation/CHIP Dane Hansen Foundation Sunderland Foundation *As of August 25, 2019

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 10 a.m. 12:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 9 p.m. 9:45 p.m.

Highlights*

Alumni College Golden W Luncheon Honorary 50th Awards for 1969 Football Team Coyote Cup Pro-Am Golf Outing Heritage Society Estate Planning Workshop Alumni Awards Dinner Alumni “On Tap” Social Basketball Late Night Parking Lot Food Truck Party

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 8 a.m. 8:30 a.m. 10 a.m. 10:30 a.m. 11 a.m. Noon Noon 1:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 7 p.m.

Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast Flag Football Ginny Bevan Dedication Pollak Chemistry Lab Open House Alumni Baseball and Softball Games Class Reunion Photos Tailgate Beer & Brats Tent @ the Kirwin House 1969 Football Team Reception 2001 & 2002 Football Team Reception Football vs. Saint Mary Homecoming Concert 50 Years of Women’s Athletics Dinner Celebration

AND SO MUCH MORE! * For a complete listing of all Homecoming and Family Weekend events, visit www.kwu.edu/homecoming2019

Homecoming and Family Weekend will bring alumni of all decades back to Salina for celebrating, reminiscing and fun! The week of October 7 will be packed full of activities, with highlights on Friday and Saturday, October 11-12. There are many new activities throughout the weekend, and we’ve provided discounts on hotels, rental cars and airline tickets to make it easier than ever to return to campus. We look forward to seeing you this fall!

Pollak Chemistry Lab Celebration

Join fellow science graduates, current science student and faculty, administrators and board members as they celebrate the renovation of the David P. Pollak Chemistry Lab. More than $750,000 in laboratory upgrades and new equipment has been invested in the Peters Science Hall laboratories in the past three years. Barbara (Pollak) Hauptli ’54 (pictured with her son, David), provided funds for the lab in honor of her farther, David, who worked as a chemist, testing the wheat that was brought to the mills in Salina in the 1950s.

Beer & Brats Tent Added to Pre-Game Festivities

New to the pre-game tailgating this year will be a Beer & Brats Tent. Guests, ages 21 and older, can purchase beer and a bratwurst dinner. The tent will be located across Claflin Avenue at the Kirwin House under the big tent. The tailgate lot will be located in the parking lot between the Student Activities Center and the Graves Family Sports Complex. Reserve your spot (www.kwu.edu/tailgate) or walk over and enjoy new activities and opportunities for reconnecting with fellow Coyotes. Additional food and beverage options will be available.

50 Years of Women’s Athletics Dinner Celebration A Salute to Women in Sports

Help launch our yearlong celebration of Women in Athletics at this special dinner celebration. Join us as we salute the efforts of Dr. Ginny Bevan and the early trailblazers who formalized women’s intercollegiate sports, recognize those who persevered through the challenging early years, individuals who set records and teams that excelled. This is an opportune time to reunite your team! All are welcome, and those who played or coached are encouraged to attend. Funds raised during the dinner will benefit the Dr. Ginny Bevan Endowed Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships for female student-athletes at KWU.

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES

ALUMNI AWARDS RECIPIENTS

2001 & 2002 Championship Football Teams

Gordon Gorton ’67

The 2001 and 2002 Kansas Wesleyan Football teams claimed back-to-back KCAC Championships for the Coyotes, the first since 1982. The teams went 8-3 both seasons and 8-1 in the KCAC. KWU made its first-ever appearances in the NAIA Football Championship Series those seasons. Coach Dave Dallas was the 2001 KCAC Coach of the Year and Matt Leonard was selected as the KCAC Offensive Player of the Year and a Second Team NAIA All-American. Clint Brown was the KCAC Defensive Player of the Year in 2002, and Oscar Nero was the Co-Offensive Player of the Year that season. KWU had a total of 35 All-KCAC selections over the two-year period.

Kaylaen Dittmer ’09

Women’s Basketball One of the best players in the history of women’s basketball at KWU, Dittmer helped turn around a 14-15 program to a then-school record 27-6 season as a senior. The Coyotes were KCAC Champions for the first time since 1988, won the KCAC Tournament for the first time in school history and made the first of three straight appearances at the NAIA Division II Women’s Basketball National Championships, reaching the Second Round.

Charlie Dyer ’71

Baseball Dyer transferred to KWU in the fall of 1968 and received the first-ever Dean Evans Team MVP trophy in 1969, hitting .450 with 32 hits, including three home runs. He hit .512 during the KCAC portion of the second that season— 16th in hitting in the NAIA. He was named to the 1969 All-KCAC team. In 1970, Dyer was named to the All-KCAC team after driving in 26 runs on the season, helping the Coyotes to both the 1969 and 1970 KCAC baseball titles.

Todd Hampton ’59

Football Hampton was an All-KCAC selection at tackle in 1958. He was part of Kansas Wesleyan’s KCAC Championship squads in 1956 and 1957. A three-year letterwinner in football for the Coyotes, Hampton also donned the purple and gold for basketball and golf.

Jay Morton ’01

Track & Field Morton was a four-time NAIA National qualifier in discus and shotput. He was a 2001 All-American in discus after finishing third. Morton was the 1998 KCAC champion in shot put and the 1998 and 2001 KCAC champion in discus. He also played basketball for the Coyotes for four years and was a member of the 2000 KCAC and NSCAA National Championship team that posted a then-school-record 25 wins. He holds the school record in both the shot put and the discus.

Jimmy Ranieri ’98

Football and Soccer Jim Ranieri played football for four years for the Coyotes as a standout placekicker. He led the KCAC and the NAIA in punting with a 46.2 yard per punt average. He was Honorable Mention All-KCAC in 1993, a First Team All-KCAC selection in 1994 and a First Team Division II NAIA All-American. In 1994, in all levels of football, he only trailed Todd Sauerbrun of West Virginia, who was a 2nd Round pick of the Chicago Bears in 1995, in punting average. Ranieri also played soccer two seasons, helping the 1996 inaugural season team to the KCAC Championship.

Alumni Service Award Gordon Gorton is the 1960s version of the Power of AND. In addition to running track and playing basketball for the Coyotes, he served on Student Council, was manager of KKWU radio station, and was involved in Phi Sig. He was a high school history teacher as well as a basketball and track coach. Gorton served in Vietnam, and received a Bronze Star for his service. After teaching, he started a wholesale food distribution business and had a stint in radio broadcasting and sales. He served as president of the Alumni Association and is serving as president of the Salina Symphony Orchestra. He is an avid Coyote fan, and when he’s not assisting a local farmer with wheat and fall harvest, he can be seen in the stands at athletic events. He and his wife, Joyce (Hoffman) ’67 were instrumental in securing new pianos for the KWU Music program. Gordon is a Master Instructor for the Kansas Hunter Safety program.

Ryan Hicks ’05

Young Alumnus Award A two-sport scholar athlete and Communications major at KWU, Ryan Hicks is the founder of a Los Angeles-based, nationally renowned 501c3 non-profit organization, Ballin’ for Peace. Utilizing the game of basketball as a platform, the organization provides at-risk youth and their families with an array of positive recreational activities, family-friendly entertainment, free workshops and information regarding employment opportunities, educational grants, scholarships and health care services. The highly acclaimed program and his work in fostering peace and reducing gang violence has been honored by the L.A. Police Department and has been recognized by such media outlets as CNN and Sports Illustrated.

Dr. Randle Corfman ’75

Alumni Achievement Award The Director of the Midwest Center for Reproductive Health, Dr. Randle Corfman has devoted his career to obstetrics and gynecology research, teaching, practice and administration. After receiving his degree, summa cum laude in Chemistry, the Newton, Kansas native completed his M.D. and Ph.D. work and residency in Kansas. After his fellowship at Yale University School of Medicine, Dr. Corfman taught at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine where he was also the Director of the Assisted Reproductive Technologies Program. He is currently a faculty member at the University of Minnesota. Named one of the 2018 Top Doctors in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Dr. Corfman has been honored with numerous accolades including: Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities, the Nathan Kase Faculty Teaching Award from Yale and the Excellence in Teaching Award from the American Professors in Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Education Foundation. Dr. Corfman has also made numerous presentations on aviation/wilderness medicine and is an Aviation Medical Examiner for the Federal Aviation Administration in Minnesota.

Emily-May and Jim Richards

Alumni by Choice Emily-May and Jim Richards became affiliated with KWU by way of their high school friend, former KWU President, Dr. Phil Kerstetter. Emily-May joined the Board of Trustees in 2003, beginning a 16-year relationship with the university. After her first seven-year stint, she rejoined the Board in 2014, and has served as Vice Chair, Chair, and this year, as Past Chair. Residents of Atlanta throughout this time, Emily-May and Jim became fully engaged in the university, making several trips a year to Salina and supporting a variety of projects. Emily-May had a robust career in finance. Jim served in the United States Naval Reserve and completed primary flight training and Officer Candidate School. He taught middle school and spent years in graphic design and photography, and was active in Boys and Girls Clubs of the Coachella Valley, CA. They are enjoying retirement in Arizona.

C E L E B R AT I N G

Diversity in Music A free concert on Oct. 7 will premier the commissioned pieces; a post-concert reception will give audience members the opportunity to meet the composers.

KWU Premieres Commissioned Work by Female Composers

ne hundred years after the U.S. Constitution was amended, Kansas Wesleyan University Director of Bands, Dr. Carl Rowles, wants to celebrate. The assistant professor of music has embarked on an ambitious project to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Suffragette movement that gave women in America the right to vote, also known as the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. To mark that poignant and historic achievement in U.S. history, Rowles is leading a consortium of schools to commission several new compositions by female composers. The consortium of 13 colleges includes Hutchinson Community College, whose band director Chris Miertschin, is serving as co-chair of the project. The new music will be premiered in a 7 p.m. concert on October 7 in conjunction with the Smoky Hills Middle School Honor Band at KWU. It is the third year the university will host the Honor Band, which is comprised of 50, high-performing middleschool students who are invited to campus to rehearse and partake in master classes throughout the day and perform a concert that evening. Rowles said his motivation for the project comes from a sense of fostering diversity in music. “For centuries, Western music has been

dominated by white, male composers —think Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms,” he said. “Even in the wind band, our short history of musical development has centered around white, male composers.” Today’s society has changed. “Students look for themselves in others— whether it’s on TV, in the movies, in sports, and even in music. To help break through this white, male-dominated profession, band directors are taking it upon themselves to diversify their programming, to ensure that what we are putting in front of our students reflects the people sitting before us in our classrooms,” he said. Thus, a national consortium helps elevate composers to the forefront and puts their

A PLACE TO

names on a national stage, Dr. Rowles said.  It also provides name recognition opportunities for the university. The composers working on the new pieces include: Dr. Kimberly Archer, Professor of Composition at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Dr. Nicole Piunno, Stephanie Berg, and Grace Baugher. The composers will also participate in a panel discussion on “Women in Music” prior to the October 6 Salina Symphony concert. The Oct. 7 KWU concert is free; a postconcert reception will give audience members the opportunity to meet the composers. For a complete listing of KWU Fine Arts events, please visit www.kwu.edu/finearts.

Perform

Ethan Badders starred in Newsies this summer at the Salina Community Theatre (SCT). Kansas Wesleyan University has an active partnership with the theatre that encourages students to get involved whether it be on stage, back stage or in the pit orchestra. Each spring SCT and KWU collaborate on a production. In spring 2020, audiences will enjoy A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder to be staged in April.

EM Grad Lands Dream Job

efore Michelle Barkley walked across the stage at Commencement this May, she had her dream job secured. She was named Emergency Management Director for Saline County—a pinnacle job for Emergency Management professionals. The confident 21-year-old had high aspirations after excelling in her internship role in Emergency Management at Salina Regional Health Center and gaining valuable hands-on experience throughout her time in the Emergency Management program, but securing a county director job, she admits, was lofty. “I kept an open mind,” Barkley said. “I had already worked with many people in Salina, and I was confident in my abilities.” Strong self-assurance is needed in a job predominantly held by males (of the 100 Emergency Management Directors in Kansas, there are only a handful who are women) and professionals with significantly more experience. Barkley, who was recruited from Chino Hills (Cal.) to play soccer for the Coyotes, says there were folks who were hesitant because she was fresh out of college. But Barkley knew she was ready and proved herself worthy after just a week on the job. “Seven days into the job, on May 20, we signed a disaster declaration because the National Weather Service was predicting record flooding in the county,” said Barkley. “Thankfully, it didn’t reach that level, but on July 4, Gypsum was completely underwater.” “Everything I learned at KWU was

Michelle Barkley ’19 is one of five female county emergency management directors in Kansas.

beneficial. I knew what to do. I used resources. I gained confidence. I’m calm under pressure and confident in my abilities.” “I have never been one to want to be in the limelight,” Barkley said. “I like to be behind the camera, so to speak, directing the operation. There is never a dull moment in a crisis situation. I don’t get rattled easily. I pray a lot that God will give me the wisdom to do the right thing and that no one gets hurt on my watch.” Barkley’s assistant director, Bernard Botson, Jr., received a degree in Emergency Management from KWU in 2018. While at KWU, Barkley was a leader in the Cadet Corps, a member of

the elite Criminal Justice/Emergency Management student group, and served as the Incident Commander in the university’s new Emergency Operations Center during the NAIA football championships. She received the Campbell/Hurd Emergency Management Award, which recognizes the achievements and hard work of students that have demonstrated an exceptional approach in the prevention/mitigation, response and recovery from disasters and emergency situations. After two years on the soccer team, Barkley suffered career-ending injuries and was team manager for the last two years. She said playing on a team gave her critical skills to help her succeed in

A PLACE TO

her new job. “The team mindset is so critical when dealing with an incident. People from different parts of the state, with different backgrounds all come together to accomplish one very important goal—to protect the life, safety and property of the community. “There were more than 40 people in the room for my first briefing. Everyone brings individual strengths and ideas to the table. It was like that on the soccer team. Individuals, from California, Florida and other states with different backgrounds, different talents and experiences, all came together for one purpose. Learning how to work with all kinds of people is certainly beneficial in my current job.”

Throw

The inaugural track and field event at the Graves Family Sports Complex and the new throws venue site could not have been bigger than the KCAC Track and Field Championships. It was the first conference championship track and field event that KWU has hosted in more than 40 years. On May 2-3, KWU hosted 26 men’s and women’s teams from the 13 KCAC institutions, welcoming more than 500 studentathletes and 800 fans to campus. Thanks to the financial support of Jeff ’71 and Martha* Bieber, Ed ’47 and Hazel* Doherty ’45, and Steve ’65 and Jewelda Scofield, the Bieber-Dougherty-Scofield Throws Venue opened less than a mile from campus just in time for the championships. 5 * Deceased

PASSION FOR SCIENCE EMBEDDED IN KRAEMER’S DNA

Amber Schreiber, Anna Williams, Dr. Kristin Kraemer and Celine Wetiba enjoy some time in the Dr. Charles B. Creager Physics Lab.

Having been the only girl in her high school shop class, Kristin Kraemer, Ph.D., isn’t bothered much about working in an unrepresented field as a female science professor. In fact, she is so energized by her physics students that she has become the faculty mentor for the new Women in STEM Living Learning Community (LLC) at Kansas Wesleyan. The STEM LLC was created in 2018 to bring together female students who are pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, in and out of the classroom. “We have created a cohort, which gives these students the opportunity to talk about shared academic and personal experiences,” said Dr. Kraemer. “They live on the same floor with a study lounge, and I understand it is used at all hours of the night.”

Dr. Kraemer is a selfproclaimed science nerd, whose love for atoms, optics and electrons was sparked at an early age—influenced by her parents, who were both in science fields. By the time she entered college, she was sure she’d land in biology or physics, but she didn’t decide upon teaching until she got to college. “I loved everything ‘sciency’ when I was a little girl. I knew going into college that I wanted to major in science. When I started teaching introductory labs, I realized I liked working with college students, and I was inspired by my professors. Once I decided to teach, I was absolutely sure I wanted to work at a small college.” Dr. Kraemer, who received her doctorate in physics and astronomy at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, enjoys the close relationships she builds with the STEM students and

those in her physics classes, which she has been teaching for seven years. As an alumna of Southwestern College (KS), she knows how much of a difference a small student-tofaculty ratio can make for a student. “Small classes allow for good teaching, a studentfirst approach, and personal interactions in labs. I know every student and each of their interests. It allows us to tailor projects that meet their interests.” Dr. Kraemer is surrounded by scientists, including her father, Dr. David Kraemer, who recently retired after 21 years teaching computer science at KWU. They could be seen eating lunch together nearly every day in the dining hall. Her husband also holds a doctorate in chemistry. Her love for science is evident in her teaching and interactions with her students, many of whom have been selected to participate in competitive Research Experiences for Undergrads—sponsored by the National Science Foundation— many attend graduate schools and are pursuing doctorate degrees. “We have some amazing students at Kansas Wesleyan,” said Kraemer. May graduates Taylor McClain, Christian Kornelis and Calvin Ainsworth are all in graduate programs at University of Michigan, Texas A&M and the Oklahoma State University, respectively.

Campus Updates FACULTY

Anne Gassmann, D.M.A., has been named visiting assistant professor of Music. She comes from the University of NebraskaLincoln, where she has been leading ensembles for the past three years including the University Chorale, University Singers and Chamber Singers. She has extensive musical theatre experience, has performed in numerous operas and has been a soprano soloist and member of many semi-professional and professional choral ensembles in the Midwest. Milt Allen, D.M.A., has joined KWU as Chair of the Department of Music. Dr. Allen spent five years at The Ohio State University, including two years as associate director of bands and visiting professor of Music in addition to serving at four other universities. This is a return to Salina for Dr. Allen, who was director of bands at Sacred Heart Jr./Sr. High School from 1998-2003. An internationally recognized conductor and educator, he has published a

book and released three commercial recordings. The following faculty have recently joined KWU: Julie Conley, M.A., assistant professor of Teacher Education; Tim Frye, Ph.D., assistant professor of Mathematics; Kelly Hopkins, M.S. ’15, assistant professor of Social Work and Social Work program director; Kyrsten Rodenbeek, M.S.W. ’04, assistant professor of Social Work and field education director; Melissa Rohrer, Ph.D., assistant professor of English and Madison Presley, Ph.D., visiting assistant professor of English. Andrea Picklesimer, M.S.N., assistant professor of Nursing, was selected by her peers as the 2018-19 Exemplary Teacher Award Recipient. She teaches adult health, assessment, critical care and mental health; serves as the Student Nurse Organization (SNO) sponsor; and is an advisor for sophomore Pre-Nursing students. The university granted tenure to the following faculty members: Dr. Lonnie Booker, Jr., assistant professor of Emergency Management

and Dr. Kristin Kraemer, assistant professor of Physics. Dr. Jamie Kootz has been named director of Graduate Education and Instructional Technology. Kootz, who is an adjunct instructor in the Sport and Exercise Science Department, and is an assistant cross country/track coach, will oversee the MBA program. Dr. David Kraemer retired after 21 years as a professor of Computer Science.

ADMINISTRATION

Paula Hermann, who has been with the university for six years, serving as senior Director of Marketing and Communications and senior director of Special Events, has been named senior director of Strategic Communications and Engagement. Brad Salois has joined the MARCOM team as assistant director. He spent more than a decade coordinating sports information and media relations at Virginia Military Institute. Jordan Matheney ’19 is the new graduate assistant marketing coordinator in MARCOM. The Advancement Office has been relocated to the first floor of Pioneer

Hall. Ken Oliver, senior director of Development, is serving as chief Advancement officer, overseeing the Advancement and Alumni Office. Jennifer Rein G’10 is assistant director of Development. Melissa Anderson joined the university as a development officer. She previously was Events, Marketing and Communications Coordinator for Sacred Heart High School. Dr. Melanie Overton, is serving as vice president of Enrollment Management. She was selected by the Student Government Association as the 2018-19 Administration and Staff Distinguished Service Award winner. Cortlyne Huppe ’16, has transitioned from her role as an admissions counselor to a new position, enrollment marketing specialist. She will direct the university’s marketing initiatives for prospective students. Jasmin Dauner ’13 has been named registrar after serving as assistant registrar for three years. Kaitlyn Schneweis ’15, is the Financial Aid assistant, and Nissa Inzunza ’19 is the academic services coordinator.

Pop-Up Blessings Table Puts God in Students’ Daily Lives Despite popular belief that religion is waning among America’s young adults, the students at Kansas Wesleyan are finding time for faith in their active schedules, thanks in part to two new programs that are literally putting God right in front of them. Blessings on the Go gives students a chance to pause and allow God’s presence in their day (think drivethrough ashes on Ash Wednesday). Peer Ministers and Campus Ministry administrators staff a kiosk (that rotates locations around campus one day a week) where students who have spiritual needs can find a blessing, someone with whom to share their concerns or a chance to pause for a minute to recalibrate. “Some students may need an extra blessing for a test that day, or they may be dealing with the illness or death of a family member, or perhaps they are feeling lonely or depressed,” says Scott Jagodzinske, Campus

Minister. “This is a chance for them to stop for a moment, pick up a snack, and if something is weighing on their heart, they can talk or pray with someone who cares.” The Blessings on the Go program is like a “pop-up prayer booth” that students pass as they are walking through campus, and, says Jagodzinske, it puts God right in front of them, exactly when they need it. “Unlike a church service or a Monday Night Alive program, Blessings on the Go is not something they have to schedule. It is conveniently right in

their path, so they don’t have to make a lot of time for it.” In addition to this program, the Campus Ministry Office provides opportunities to help students expand and deepen their faith, such as Monday Night Alive, genderspecific life groups, and small groups that focus on mental health, mindfulness and spiritual disciplines. To help lead these activities, and to bring more spiritual opportunities to students in the residence halls, Campus Ministry has recently introduced a Peer Ministry program. Four upper-level student leaders have been selected as Peer Ministers this academic year. Peer Ministers live in the residence halls and reach out to fellow students and journey with them as they strive to incorporate the beliefs of each person’s faith tradition into daily life. The Peer Ministry team is integral in the work of Campus Ministry in

faith development, service, and peace and justice offerings. The 2019-20 Peer Ministry Team includes senior Bailie Troll, and juniors Samantha Chesser, Beck Elliott and Kennedy Cleveland. “I look forward to the opportunity to grow in my faith and be intentional about having fellowship with my friends and connecting with more students that I haven’t gotten to know yet,” said Cleveland. “When they leave for college, they leave their faith at home. While here, they start to shape their physical life, emotional life and spiritual life in a way that helps them to better understand who they are meant to be. Young adults are shouldering a lot, and it’s challenging to make this journey alone. They need to know that God is with them on this journey, as is this caring group of peers and administrators with whom they can laugh, cry, pray and celebrate.”

WOMEN’S ATHLETICS

Changing the course of 8

Early Athletes made inroads for future Coyotes Organized women’s intercollegiate athletics in Kansas in the 1960s was little more than a frequent topic of conversation among the state’s physical education instructors. It was considered a pipedream and often dismissed by skeptics who considered it unladylike and unnecessary. Mary Virginia (Ginny) Bevan ’56, a firebrand Physical Education instructor at Kansas Wesleyan, and a handful of other likeminded women in Kansas weren’t satisfied with a status quo they considered an equality issue when compared to the far more advanced and enhanced status of men’s collegiate athletics. Words eventually turned to action—their dissatisfaction echoing the times of a decade considered the most tumultuous and divisive in the history of the United States. The Early Years The wheels of change in Kansas finally gained traction in the fall of 1968, when Bevan and representatives from approximately a dozen other institutions gathered at the Rock Springs 4-H Ranch outside of Junction City. The group decided to set a formal meeting in the spring of 1969 at a cabin near Emporia. It was here that their work led to the birth of the Association for Kansas Women’s Intercollegiate Sports—the state’s first organization for women’s athletics. At the national level, the AIAW (Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women) was formed and the AKWIS affiliated with it. State institutions began to form teams, and regular AKWIS meetings were held for the next four years. An Uphill Battle The years between 1969-72 were pivotal for the schools in Kansas. Like their counterparts across the nation, coaches and athletes got by with the talent and resources that were available. Operating funds often came from coaches themselves. Bevan’s first athletic budget was $600 of her own money. Female athletic scholarships didn’t exist, and neither did recruiting. Rosters were filled with students who showed up to play—no tryouts required. Teams sponsored car washes and bake sales to pay for transportation. Athletes purchased their own uniforms, but warm-ups were not even a consideration. “We wore t-shirts we bought ourselves, and we glued felt

letters on them for our uniforms,” Bevan said. “We rode in my blue bomb almost everywhere we went,” said Bevan, who coached five sports at various times at KWU from 1968-78. Competition knew no boundaries. The Coyotes played teams from Kansas, Kansas State, Wichita State, Emporia State, Fort Hays State and Washburn, along with other KCAC institutions in various sports. And there was the ongoing stigma of women doing something that wasn’t necessarily considered appropriate for the times. For those who competed, though, it didn’t matter. “You wanted to do well, and it was at a time when it wasn’t neat to be a female athlete,” said Mary Lou Morgan ’70, who was a member of the first women’s track and basketball teams at KWU and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. “I didn’t care because I liked it.” She started volleyball at Manhattan High School, won 499 games in 17 years as the Indians’ coach, and founded the Kansas Volleyball Association. Title IX Creates Momentum The breakthrough came nationwide on June 23, 1972, when President Richard Nixon signed the landmark Title IX amendment that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any federally funded education program or activity. It gave the women’s sports movement the muscle needed to officially move forward. “The purpose was to provide opportunity for women to have a vehicle in which to perfect and enjoy sports,” Bevan said. “Co-curricular sports, if they’re done right, can transform young women, just as it can men. I felt like we were making things better for our students.” Bevan’s budget doubled post-Title IX to $1,200, which was spent on warm-ups. Paving the Way Marcia Troutfetter ’73, who played volleyball and softball and later coached both sports after Bevan stepped down to focus on teaching, credited Cel Muff (longtime Marymount College and Salina High coach) and Bevan as positive role models. Troutfetter went on to coach high school and middle school volleyball in the Salina school system for 34 years. She said Title IX gave female athletes credibility, administrators hired better coaches, and additional sports were offered. “I’m proud of that movement and of being a role model for my daughters,” Bevan said. The historic efforts made by Bevan and many other administrators from Kansas institutions created inroads for women in athletics at Kansas Wesleyan throughout the past five decades. The female students of the early 1970s, who dared to compete as an underrepresented population in college athletics, opened the door for women to pursue their passion for sports and to inspire the next generation of leaders and achievers in intercollegiate athletics.

A firebrand for equality, Bevan pushed boundaries and changed history Mary Virginia Zook wasn’t the biggest or best athlete as a youngster growing up in Salina. Her diminutive stature relegated her to endeavors that relied more on heart and desire than size and strength. She found ways to compete and contribute, though, and that was the only thing that mattered —then and in the years that followed. The joy of competing in softball as a youngster aided in establishing a healthy lifestyle, which became the bedrock of Bevan’s crusade as an instructor, coach and administrator during a 33-year career at Kansas Wesleyan.  It also was her impetus to becoming one of the pioneers and a key figure in a revolutionary grass roots movement in the late sixties that sought to organize women’s intercollegiate athletics at the state level.  Fifty years later, Bevan is at the forefront of the university’s yearlong salute to women’s athletics. Although they weren’t formally recognized until June 23, 1972, following passage of the landmark Title IX amendment, women’s athletics are being honored by KWU for the efforts that began in 1969. For Bevan, putting women’s athletics on equal footing with men was one part of her lifelong pursuit of creating equal opportunities for women. “I consider myself a feminist, very much so. I just feel like women should get to be what they’re destined to be and do what they have the opportunities and abilities to do. And they should be paid equally.” A call to teach Bevan grew up around sports and education. Her father David, was Salina’s first Director of Recreation,

1976-77 Volleyball team; Bevan is on the far right.

“Co-curricular sports, if they’re done right, can transform young women, just as it can men. I felt like we were making things better for our students.” — Dr. Ginny Bevan ’56

after his first career as a teacher and coach. Bevan attended KWU for two years, where she was a cheerleader, co-editor of the yearbook, and a member of the newspaper staff and the Women’s Athletic Association. She graduated in 1956 with a degree in Physical Education. Bevan began her three-decades-long tenure at KWU as an instructor in women’s Physical Education in 1957 with a salary of $3,400. She earned a Master’s degree in Physical Education and speech in 1965. Bevan coached five sports at various times at KWU from 1968-78. She was volleyball, basketball and softball coach from 1968-70, in addition to teaching a full course load and raising three children—Charla, Michael and Julie, with her late husband, Warren ’56. It wasn’t all about winning For Bevan, coaching was an extension of teaching—instructing KWU students how to play the sport and have fun doing it. “I learned from a different point of view that the important thing about

athletics is that everyone enjoyed it, everyone got to participate, and everyone felt like a winner,” she said. “It’s a whole different point of view than winning at all costs.” Bevan left coaching after 10 years to focus on her first and true passion— teaching. “I love teaching academics and helping young people develop and learn, whether it’s through teaching, coaching, recreation, whatever. I gave them the fundamentals and the strategy and the things that go with it." Leaving a Legacy Fifty years later, Bevan is fiercely proud of her career and the impact she had on the advancement of women’s athletics. She humbly deflects credit, pointing out that she was one of many women who started the Kansas movement. “I am the little cog that helped Wesleyan be part of it,” she said. “I’m just one of about 20 that deserve to be honored together. I think women deserve equity, they deserve an opportunity, and I’m

glad I was part of a movement that helped get them there.” Others felt differently. Bevan received the prestigious Pathfinder Award from The American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) in 1981 for her contributions to the present-day women’s athletic programs. Few women have left such an indelible mark on the university. Bevan served as Dean of Women and Interim Academic Dean before she retired in 1997 as a full professor, and her legacy lives on at Wesleyan. She served on the Board of Trustees from 2000-09. In 1987, she was the first woman to be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, and in 1999, she received the Distinguished Service Award, and in 2011, she received an honorary degree in Doctor of Humane Letters. Each spring, KWU recognizes the Ginny Bevan Female Student-Athlete of the Year, and as part of the 50 Years of Women in Athletics the university will raise money for the Ginny Bevan Female Scholarship Fund, an endowed scholarship for female athletes.

Calling all former student-athletes! Join in the celebration as the university honors Ginny Bevan and all who have been a part of women’s athletics. October 12 | 7 p.m. Tickets at www.kwu.edu/50years

YEARS A look through the

1937

The Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) joins the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and begins competing for men’s national championships.

FALL, 1968

SPRING, 1969

The Kansas physical education instructors formally meet in Emporia and form the Association of Kansas Women’s Intercollegiate Sports (AKWIS). They develop a constitution and a system for scheduling and competition. They invite other institutions to join them.

A small group of Kansas female physical education instructors meet during a retreat at the Rock Springs 4H Center in Junction City to discuss the possibility of organizing women’s intercollegiate sports at the state level.

1969

KWU fields its first organized women’s teams—women’s basketball, softball and volleyball.

1971

Title IX legislation is introduced in Congress by Senator Birch Bayh (IN). It was co-authored by Bayh and Congresswoman Patsy Mink (HI).

1971

The Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW) is founded for the purpose of governing collegiate women’s athletics in the United States.

1974

AKWIS changes its name to the Kansas Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women to correspond and affiliate with the national organization.

SPRING, 1972

The first Kansas Wesleyan women’s athletics budget is funded with $1,200.

JUNE 23, 1972

President Richard Nixon signs the Title IX amendment into law to enforce equal access and quality for women’s athletes. That year, there were 30,000 women participating in college sports and 170,000 men.

1975

The KCAC officially recognizes women’s athletics.

SPRING, 1978

Kansas Wesleyan fields a women’s track team.

FALL, 1978

Kansas Wesleyan offers cross country as a women’s sport.

AUGUST 1, 1980

The NAIA becomes the first collegiate athletics association to sponsor sports programs for women. Championship events were conducted in basketball, cross country, gymnastics, indoor and outdoor track and field, softball, tennis and volleyball during the 1980-81 academic year.

1982

The NCAA stages its first women’s basketball tournament. AIAW powerhouses Tennessee, Louisiana Tech and Old Dominion participate, virtually sealing the AIAW’s demise.

JUNE 30, 1983

The AIAW ceases operations after losing a federal anti-trust lawsuit against the NCAA. Women athletes are affiliated with either the NCAA or NAIA moving forward.

1996

KWU adds women’s soccer.

2000

Women’s tennis becomes an official sport at Kansas Wesleyan.

2004

Women’s golf is added to the offerings at Kansas Wesleyan.

2007

KWU decides to hire separate head coaches for women’s basketball and volleyball. Gordon Reimer is the last to coach both sports, opting to lead the women’s basketball program for the 2007-08 season.

2014

Competitive cheer joins the lineup of co-ed sports at Kansas Wesleyan.

2015

Competitive dance becomes an official co-ed sport for Kansas Wesleyan women.

2016

KWU adds bowling to the list of women’s sports.

2019

KWU adds first woman to the Esports team.

DECADES OF KWU Hall of Fame Women’s Teams

Basketball 1987–88 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 Softball Teams Cross Country 2004 Soccer 2007 Volleyball 2007

Female Student-Athletes

Mary Lou (Hasker) Morgan ’70 – All Sports Vicky (Hedges) Kerbs ’73 – Women’s Athletics, postgraduate service Cindy (Wright) Logan ’73 – Basketball, Volleyball, Softball Marcia (Oxandale) Troutfetter ’73 – Softball Nancy (Bissell) Terhune ’75 – Volleyball, Softball Debbie (Green) Christie ’76 – Softball, Volleyball Mary Pat (Sheahon) Weese ’76 – Volleyball, Softball, Postgraduate Coaching Rose (Polk) Draft ’76 – Volleyball, Basketball, Softball Rhonda (Melton) Rose ’76 – Volleyball, Softball Jackie Douglass ’79 – Volleyball, Softball Jill (Rietzke) Ptacek ’79 – Volleyball, Basketball, Softball Carolyn Sias ’79 – Volleyball, Basketball, Softball Amy (Proffitt) Sloan ’81 – Basketball, Track Jessi (Burnham) Stang ’81 – Volleyball, Basketball Yvonne (Zukowfsky) Burhoop ’82 – Volleyball, Softball Syble Sullivan ’85 – Volleyball, Softball, Basketball Denita (Beougher) Tanzer ’85 – Volleyball Alice Watkins ’85 – Volleyball, Softball, Basketball Michele (Marostica) Needens ’86 – Volleyball, Basketball, Softball Joedy Zimmerman ’86 – Basketball Renae (Rensberger) Frost ’87 – Basketball Deena (Vargocko) Lovato ’87 – Basketball, Softball Sandy (Brown) Lucas ’88 – Basketball, Softball Darla (Gadberry) Villalpando ’91 – Basketball Terri (Clark) Rassette ’92 – Softball Deena Baker ’93 – Softball Shelly (Emig) Crane ’93 – Softball Leslie (Zielinski) Lazzarini ’94 – Softball Jolina (Garoutte) Kline ’97 – Basketball Ascendra (Peters) Donald ’07 – Basketball Sarah Claborn ’09 – Volleyball Kaylaen (Dittmer) Evans ’09 – Basketball

Excellence IN

Throughout the past five decades, Kansas Wesleyan has produced eight women’s teams and 32 female Hall of Fame inductees, 30 KCAC coaches-of-the-year representing women’s athletics, and 20 teams and 36 individuals who have advanced to national championships. Today, female student-athletes make up more than 35% of the 542 Coyotes competing for KWU (a 91% increase from 2000-01). The culture of excellence in athletics was established in the early 1970s by female administrators, coaches and athletes whose perseverance paved the way for future generations to wear the purple and gold with pride. The following is a selection of outstanding teams and athletes.

1970s

1980s

1978 Volleyball

1987-88 Basketball

TEAM

The Coyotes compiled a 13-9 record and finished fourth in the Kansas Conference at 9-7, KWU’s best finish to date. The team was led by first-year coach Marcia Troutfetter, a former Coyote multi-sport athlete, who was later inducted into the Hall of Fame.

ATHLETE

TEAM

The women won the program’s first KCAC title with a 25-5 record that wasn’t surpassed until 2009. Coach Tracy Rietzke’s team won the conference title with a 16-2 record and led the KCAC in scoring (76.1 points), scoring defense (55.8) and scoring margin (20.3 points).

ATHLETE

Jill (Rietzke) Ptacek Joedy Zimmerman (1975-79) Rietzke lettered in basketball, softball and volleyball and was chosen all-KCAC in basketball three times. She holds the school record for single-game scoring (40 points) and single-season rebound game average (15).

Jill (Rietzke) Ptacek

(1981-85)

Zimmerman was a four-year starter in basketball for Coach Tracy Rietzke. She was named all-KCAC three times and holds the school record for career scoring average (16.5). She also set school records for most points in a career and season, field goal percentage, field goals made in a season and field goal attempts in a season.

WOMEN’S Athletics 1990s

2000s

2010s

1994 Softball

2007 Soccer

2010-11 Basketball

TEAM

Coach Kevin Blaskowski’s team finished the season with a 33-16 record. The Coyotes won the NAIA District 10 title and KCAC postseason tournament after placing second during the regular season.

ATHLETE

Terri (Clark) Rassette (1989-92)

Clark was a Salina native who played shortstop for the Coyotes. She was named the 1992 NAIA District 10 Player of the Year and was an NAIA Honorable Mention All-America selection. She also was a two-time First Team AllDistrict 10 selection, a three-time All-KCAC First Team choice, a three-time KCAC AllAcademic and a twotime NAIA Scholar Athlete.

Terri (Clark) Rassette

TEAM

Coach Mike Dibbini’s team posted a 21-2-1 record, including a perfect 9-0 slate in conference play, while allowing just one goal the entire season. The Coyotes won the last NAIA Region 4 tournament, becoming the first Wesleyan team to qualify for the NAIA Women’s National Championships. The Coyotes defeated Embry-Riddle (Fla.) in their first match before losing to Concordia (Ore.) in the second round.

ATHLETE

TEAM

Coach Gordon Reimer’s Coyotes were 31-3, setting a school record for victories in a single season, and capturing the KCAC’s regular season and postseason tournament titles. They were 15-3 in conference play, setting the tone for the season by winning their first 17 games. KWU defeated Holy Names (Calif.) in the first round of the NAIA Division II national tournament before losing to Black Hills State (S.D.) in the second round.

ATHLETE

Heather LaCole Wilkinson Muilenburg (2006-09) (2008-11) A diminutive point guard, Wilkinson Wesleyan’s career goals per game leader, Muilenburg was a three-time NAIA Soccer Honorable Mention All-American, a four-time All-KCAC First Team selection and two-time KCAC Offensive Player of the Year. Muilenburg was chosen the KCAC Freshman of the Year in 2006.

was a mainstay in Coach Gordon Reimer’s lineups for four seasons. She played in 126 consecutive games, starting 124, and helped KWU to 92-34 during that time span. Wilkinson averaged 10.6 points per game for her career and was a threetime All-KCAC First Team and a three-time NAIA Honorable Mention All-America selection. 13

Growth IN WOMEN’S ATHLETICS

ABOVE: Keara Lenard ’16 BELOW: 2010 basketball team

In the past eight years, the number of female student-athletes at KWU has increased by 91%. In 2018-19, there were 542 student-athletes; 193 were female. Gordon Reimer was exhausted. Three seasons of recruiting and serving as head coach for women’s basketball and volleyball plus recruiting 40 players a year at Kansas Wesleyan had taken a toll. Following the 2006-07 academic year, he broached the idea of the university hiring a volleyball coach and allowing him to focus full-time on basketball, and the decision was pivotal in the growth

and advancement of women’s athletics. The 2008-09 basketball team won 27 games and advanced to the second round of the NAIA Division II tournament. Volleyball saw immediate dividends, winning its first regular-season Kansas Collegiate Conference and the conference tournament titles under new head coach Shane Taylor. Current KWU vice president and director of Athletics Mike Hermann has had a front row seat in witnessing the growth of women’s athletics during his 30 years of service to intercollegiate athletics, specifically in terms of participation and fan interest.

“It’s amazing to see how fan interest and participation have grown rapidly at every level across the country,” he said. “I’ve looked at the historic participation at Kansas Wesleyan, and we have a hundred-plus more female student-athletes than we had five years ago and any time prior to that. Our rosters are more robust, we have more sports, and so now there’s an opportunity for more women to participate more than ever.” With the enactment of landmark Title IX legislation in June, 1972, women’s intercollegiate athletics embarked on a path toward equality with their male counterparts. While Title IX’s impact was immediate, progress was, at times, slow. “I think it became very fun to watch girls’ sports,” said Marcia Troutfetter, a 1973 KWU graduate and member of the Athletic Hall of Fame who played volleyball and softball and later coached both sports at the university. “People who were used to just going and supporting their daughters, started watching and developing a fondness for the game.” The success of Olympic and professional teams and individual athletes over the past decades has bolstered a fan base for women’s sports and has provided role models for high school and college athletes. “People in our department are as excited with a women’s soccer win as they are with a men’s soccer win. There’s no differentiation by gender. They’re as excited with a

volleyball win as they are a football win. I think that is a sign of great progress,” Hermann said. That’s not to say the job is finished, though. The challenge for today’s athletic administrators is maintaining balance. “I know it’s an important issue,” Hermann said. “Every institution I’ve served has been intentional in ensuring that it is providing equitable opportunities and making them as robust as possible for both men and women. KWU is no exception.” “We have a high percentage of women athletes at Kansas Wesleyan, and we want to continue to grow that. We want to invite more women to be part of the athletics program.” In 2000-01, there were 63 female athletes and 150 male athletes at KWU. Today, that number is 193 and 349, respectively. Helping to facilitate that growth is the makeup of the coaching staff, according to Hermann. “One of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is the growth in the number of head coaches at Kansas Wesleyan that are women who are role models for the female students in our program,” he said. “We did not have that five years ago—we had zero. Now we have not just a significant group in terms of numbers (five), but a significant group in terms of outstanding individuals. I’m proud that they’re able to be role models, and I think that is progress.”

KWU has five female head coaches. Their bond: A passion for their sport, a drive to inspire young women to reach their fullest potential, and a desire to see their student-athletes succeed while competing for KWU and in the years beyond their college experience.

Bailey Brenn, Dance Bailey Brenn considers her youth an advantage as head coach of the KWU Dance Team. With 15 young women and men on the team between the ages of 18-21, she feels like she can relate well to their needs and help them through the college experience. “I was in their shoes not too long ago, and I can be a mentor to them both as studentathletes and as young adults figuring out college life and adulting,” Brenn said. Brenn comes to KWU after serving as an assistant for the Colby Community College cheer and dance program. She was responsible for team choreography and had a significant role in recruiting. She also served as a dance instructor for a dance studio in Colby. Brenn was a member of the Colby Community College cheer and dance teams and the Kansas State University Classy Cats dance team. She was a member of the 2016 NJCAA Region 6 championship team at Colby. “My goal is to continue to build the team to be one of the top competitive programs, not only in the conference, but in the region.”

Jessica Cleveland, Volleyball Jessica Cleveland learned many skills as an NAIA volleyball player at Friends and throughout her years of coaching that she is now sharing in her first year at the helm of the Coyote volleyball team. But it may be the life lessons she is imparting that will have the most influence on the long-term success of her student-athletes. She came to KWU after three successful seasons as head coach at McPherson College that included a 34-4 record and the KCAC championship in 2018. Her approach to coaching underwent significant change with the birth of her son, Jackson, in 2017. “I hope that someday as my players navigate motherhood and balancing multiple roles, that they have been inspired a little bit by a female coach that demonstrated the ability to successfully juggle numerous responsibilities while modeling positive parenting.” Cleveland says she appreciates the role a coach plays during an important time in a student-athlete’s life. “This age for female athletes is a very transformative time in their lives, and I want to help them navigate through it,” she said.

Taylor Reichard, Softball Taylor’s passion for coaching softball came about by accident. After an injury abruptly ended her playing career at Emporia State, her head coach offered her a chance to be an assistant coach. “I fell in love with it from day one,” said Reichard, who completed her first season at KWU in the spring. She spent one season at Emporia State as a graduate assistant, then went to Southwestern (Fla.) as a full-time assistant for three seasons before coming to Salina. Reichard said she coaches her players with an eye on the future. “I tell my athletes all the time that it is my job to make them better at softball,” she said. “But most importantly, I want to make them a better person.” Reichard believes women’s athletics are gaining wider acceptance. “Softball and baseball getting put back into the Olympics was key for our sport. You can turn on ESPN and the (NCAA) softball regionals are packed,” she said. “You see these softball stadiums that are absolutely amazing —the locker rooms and the gear that they’re given. It’s definitely on its way, and it’s making moves.”

Hannah Hendrickson, Golf Hannah Hendrickson may be in her first job as a head coach, but there is no doubt she knows exactly the kind of coach she

wants to be. “When you’re a coach, you are a mentor to your student-athletes,” said Hendrickson, who was named head women’s golf coach this summer. “You want to set a good example; you want to hold them accountable; you want to give them all the tools and resources to be successful.” Coaching is part of her daily life. Her husband, Myers, who grew up with a father who coached, is in his first season as the Coyotes’ football coach. “Being a coach is a natural fit for me,” she said. “Helping the student-athletes become better players is my favorite part of coaching. I think it is really special that these young women get to come through this school, get an education and have the chance to play the sport they love at the same time.” Hendrickson is a Salina native and former standout high school golfer at Salina South and a four-year leader at Wichita State. Jenni Showman, Cheer The concept of coaching cheerleaders to perform in a competitive setting was wholly foreign to Showman. “It was a new world for me, because when I cheered in high school, competition wasn’t an option.” said Showman, who has served as cheer coach for two years and cheered at Emporia State, which didn’t offer competitive cheer. Showman, though, on a “leap of faith,” accepted KWU’s offer to lead a competitive program that was in its infancy. Showman’s first task was teaching cheerleaders how to be competitive athletes. Showman has worked with others in the KCAC and NAIA to develop the sport. “We had to create the scoring — What gets five points versus one point? It’s very subjective, and that’s something we’ve really tried to work on across the conference and NAIA.” Showman has proven equal to the task. The Coyotes placed fifth out of 10 teams in the NAIA Southwest Qualifier in February. In all of her roles, she is a positive role model for her student-athletes. “I want to teach them life skills, soft skills, social skills—so that when they leave, they are successful in their personal and professional lives.”

ALUMNI

& FRIENDS GATHERINGS KWU IS COMING TO YOU! Join fellow Coyotes for a social, lunch or tailgate at one of these upcoming Alumni and Friends gatherings this fall. For a complete list, visit WWW.KWU.EDU/ALUMNI.

WICHITA, KS | 5:30–7 p.m.

LAWRENCE, KS | 5–7 p.m.

SEP

OCT

KWU Tailgate Prior to the KWU Football game vs Friends University @ 7 p.m. Friends University Adair Austin Stadium

KWU on Tap @ Blue Moose 525 Wakarusa Dr.

WICHITA, KS | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

KWU on Tap @ Harry’s Uptown Bar and Grill 3023 E. Douglas Ave. Prior to the KWU Volleyball game at Friends University @ 7 p.m.

BROOKLYN, NY | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

WESTAMPTON, NJ | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

OCT

KWU Alumni & Friends Social @ Mable’s Smokehouse, 44 Berry Street

KWU Alumni & Friends Social @ Recovery Sports Grill, 109 Hancock Lane

TOPEKA, KS | 5–7 p.m.

SALINA, KS | 7:30-9:30 p.m.

OCT

17 OCT

KWU On Tap @ Celtic Fox 118 SW 8th Ave.

Homecoming KWU On Tap @ Courtyard by Marriott, 3020 Riffel Dr.

TULSA, OK | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. KWU On Tap @ Buffalo Wild Wings 6222 E. 41st St.

KANSAS CITY, KS | 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

ST. LOUIS, MO | 2:30–4:30 p.m.

OMAHA, NE | 4:30-6 p.m.

MANHATTAN, KS | 5:30–7:30 p.m.

EMPORIA, KS | 5–7 p.m.

HAYS, KS | 5–7 p.m.

KANSAS CITY, MO | 4:30–6:30 p.m.

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

KWU On Tap @ Blue Moose 1134 Holmes Rd. Prior to the KWU Football Game at Avila University @ 1 p.m.

KWU On Tap @ Tom’s Bar & Grill 20 S. Euclid Ave. Prior to the KWU Men’s Basketball game at St. Louis School of Pharmacy @ 5 p.m.

KWU On Tap @ Lo Sole Mio Ristorante Italiano 3001 S. 32nd Ave. Prior to the KWU Women’s Basketball game at Bellevue @ 6 p.m.

KWU On Tap @ Powercat Sports Grill 3011 Anderson Ave.

KWU On Tap @ Bruff’s Bar & Grill 2640 W. 18th Ave. Prior to the KWU Men’s Basketball Game against Emporia State University

KWU On Tap @ On the Rocks Bar & Grill 507 W. 7th St. Prior to the KWU Men’s Basketball Game against Fort Hays State

KWU On Tap @ Blue Moose, 1134 Holmes Rd. Prior to the KWU Basketball doubleheader against Avila University

Class Notes 1940s

Eulalie (Moorman) “Tiny” Hargrave ’45 (Plainville, KS) celebrated her 97th birthday in May. After graduating, she served as secretary for President E.K. Morrow.

1960s

H. John Sanders ’61 is the president of the Kansas Author’s Club, District 7, in Western Kansas. Phil Coleman ’68 was given the key to Dean Evans Stadium on June 5, 2019, during Salina Baseball Opening Day for a Cause. He was recognized for his “dedication for the numerous programs that support the Youth, Families and Coaches of this community.” Nicholas (Nick) Petron, Jr. ’68, was honored for 45 years of service at Adelphi University where he is the Chair of the Department of Performing Arts.

1970s

Barbara (Davis) Balser ’78 retired after 15 years in children’s ministry.

1980s

Troy Katen ’98 was named deputy athletic director of External Operations at Northwest Missouri State. Katen graduated with a business degree, lettered in three sports and spent one season as an assistant basketball and football coach. Katen has held coaching and administrative positions at a number of schools and sports. He most recently served as associate athletic director at the University of Saint Mary.

2000s

Kyrsten (Beckmann) Rodenbeek ’04 is the new assistant professor of Social Work and Field Education director at KWU. Eric Brown ’09 assumed his duties as president of the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce in May. He has served as vice president of Economic Development since 2011. Brown received the 2014 Carol D. Ahlvers, Ph.D., Distinguished MBA Alumnus Award.

2010s

Captain Jeffrey Rooney ’12 returned from deployment to Afghanistan as a Joint Terminal Attack Controller for the US Marine Corps.

Craig Hauschild ’88 was named Pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salina, KS

Annetta (Burchett) Flax ’13 has joined the KWU Business Office as staff accountant.

1990s

Sean Grove ’14 and Becky Lyne ’14 were married on June 1, 2019.

Ronda Harrison ’92, Esq., is the assistant dean for Academic Success and Bar Readiness at Thurgood Marshall School of Law on the campus of Texas Southern University.

Noteworthy

Kelly Hopkins ’15 is the new assistant professor and Social Work program director at KWU. John Terry ’15, G’16 and Chelsey Kohman ’14 were married on May 31, 2019.

Legendary Kansas Wesleyan football coach and administrator, Gene Bissell, will be inducted posthumously into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame (KSHOF) in October. He is a member of the 13-person class to be inducted at a ceremony at the Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane, KS, on October 6. Bissell, who coached 26 seasons at KWU, and served the university through 1994, passed away in 2016, a few months after Gene Bissell Field was dedicated at the new Graves Family Sports Complex.

Rachel Holzmeister ’16 is now teaching elementary music in Oakley, KS. Kelcey Edwards ’16 married Nick Rice G’17 on June 15, 2019. Kora Copas ’17 joined the Greater Salina Community Foundation as a staff accountant, supporting the foundation’s finance department in the areas of gift and grant processing, fund reporting and accounting operations. Brylee New ’17 G’19, married Eli Smith ’18 on August 10, 2019. Hannah Leal ’17 married classmate Jared Rodriguez ’17 on March 17, 2019. Christian Mitchell ’18 has been hired as the assistant director of Student Development/resident director at KWU. He and Alicia Resa ’16 were married on September 1, 2018. After completing his MBA at KWU in 2019, Joseph Layton-Santos ’18, G’19 was named educational technology specialist at the University of California, Berkley. Brad Coombs ’18 is a science teacher at Bonneville High School in Idaho. Nissa Inzunza ’19 is the new academic services coordinator at KWU. She is serving the office of Student Financial Planning while pursuing her MBA. Cynthia Martinez ’19 has been hired as a supervisor in the Aseptic Quality Control Lab at Pfizer. Megan Kline Yates ’19 was hired as a production engineer at Pfizer. Morgan Beougher ’19, who received the award for the highest GPA at graduation and was named the Outstanding Biology Student of the Year, was married to Colton Hull on August 3, 2019. She and her husband are pursuing doctoral degrees in Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University. Nursing graduates, Lisa Lopez ’19 and Cassidy Hornbacher ’19, passed their NCLX exams and are working as Registered Nurses at Salina Regional Health Center. Taylor Dodge ’19 married Kelley Cordova on June 29, 2019.

In Memoriam Marvel (Stanfield) Hull ’42, Woodston, KS, passed away April 10, 2019. Joyce (Green) Pearson ’45, Salina, KS, passed away Saturday, July 6, 2019. Lawrence (Larry) Sams ’50, Salina, KS, passed away March 15, 2019. Richard Keith Dean ’51, Salina, KS, passed away March 21, 2019. Irene Emma Lou (Latzke) Finley ’51, Herington, KS, passed away May 15, 2019. Wallace E. Shelley ’63, Lawrence, KS, passed away February 1, 2019. Dr. Douglas M. Fair ’64, Oberlin, KS, passed away February 15, 2019. Leonard Lenkiewicz ’68, Salina, KS, passed away March 19, 2019. Marcia (Vanover) LoVullo ’75, O’Fallon, MO, and formerly of Salina, KS, passed away February 23, 2019 Pauline (McLean) Gilmore ’80, Salina, KS, passed away June 5, 2019. Glen F. Kochanowski ’83, long-time sheriff of Saline County, Salina, KS, passed away March 23, 2019 Michael Henry Metro ’89, Salina, KS, passed July 9, 2019. Patricia Ann (Spradlin) Miller ’95, Salina, KS, passed away May 4, 2019. Adam Hulstine ’07, Salina, KS, passed away July 29, 2019.

Friends of the University Sara Fair Sleeper, Alden, KS, KWU Board of Trustee member from 19641973, passed away March 7, 2019. Dean Owens who served as KWU’s Board of Trustees Chairman in the late 1990s, passed away on May 22, 2019. Betty (Lehman) Price-Keeler, wife of KWU alumnus, Bill Keeler ’44, passed away at the age of 93 in June. Karen Meyer, Olathe, KS, formerly of Salina, KS, wife of Robert ’73, who serves as vice chair of the KWU Foundation Board, passed away July 16, 2019.

Marlene Selden ’55 Larry ’78 and Joy Smith Daniel ’81 and Jessi ’81 Stang The Rev. Dr. Marshall and Janice Stanton Sunflower Bank Dr. Matthew and Jennifer Thompson UMB Bank Dr. Gary and Mary Anne Weiner

Pioneer Society members provide annual support for the university in the amount of $1,000 or more ($500 for alumni who graduated within the last 10 years, faculty and staff). If you are interested in joining the Pioneer Society, please contact the Advancement Office at (785) 833-4341. Following are the Pioneer Society members for 2018-19 Fiscal Year. PIONEER PARTNERS ($25,000+) Roy and Donice Applequist Ellene ’66 and Richard Austin Jeffrey Bieber ’71 Blue Beacon International Pauline Eaton ’49 William H. Graves Family Foundation Great Plains Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church John and Mary H. Hart Foundation VernaMae Johnson ’52 Estate James ’77 and Charlotte Nelson Frank* ’54 and Jeannie Norton Jerry ’59 and Margaret ’61 Norton Dale C. Olson ’46 James and Emily-May Richards St. Francis Community Services Salina Regional Health Foundation Darwin L. & Delma M. Sampson Fund Steve ’65 and Jewelda Scofield Mac Steele Jack and Donna Vanier

LOCKWOOD CIRCLE ($10,000–$24,999) Gustaf ’14 and Hannah ’16 Applequist Lee ’65 and Marla ’64 Beikman Bruce Culley Brad and Sandy Delker Edward Doherty ’47 Ken and Karen Ebert Dr. David ’64 and Patricia Fancher The Hon. William P. ’76 and Linda Graves Great Plains Manufacturing Co. Nadim ’65 and Sally Haddad ++ Barbara A. Hauptli ’54 Dr. Karen ’68 and Gerald Johnson Laurie and Mark Lacher Kent ’72 and Pat Lambert Miller Family Charitable Trust C & R Schauf Foundation

Joy ’58 and Leo Schell Randy ’66 and Mary Ann St. Clair Verla Nesbitt Joscelyn Foundation

T. W. ROACH CIRCLE ($5,000–$9,999) Barbara Arensman-Snyder ’53 The Rev. Tim ’76 and The Rev. Pat Ault-Duell Richard and Joyce Brown Senators Robert and Elizabeth Dole Tom and Lou Ann Dunn Janet Eaves Dr. Frederic ’62 and Carolyn Gilhousen Dr. Charles and Pat Grimwood Dr. Harold ’60 and Brenda Keller Milton ’82 and Cheryl Larson Robert Loyd ’68 Marshall Family Foundation Larry and Barbara Marshall Robert ’71 and Patricia ’69 Murray Salina Arts & Humanities Commission Martha Shimp Estate Dr. Roy and Grace* Smith S & B Motels/Stanley and Ursula Weilert Dr. Carolyn Hofer-Zimmerman and Mark Zimmerman

SCHUYLER CIRCLE ($2,500–$4,999) AV Camps/ Fred and Sabrina Aubuchon Charlie Ault-Duell ’05 Lila Berkley Scott and Anamari Boswell Martin ’66 and Wanda Brotherton Dr. Robert ’66 and Patricia Bruchman Clark, Mize & Linville, Chartered Phil Coleman ’68 Andrew ’64 and Linda Deckert Eagle Technologies, Inc. Dianne Fahring ’74 Larry ’64 and Janis ’65 Frutiger ++ Robert P. ’69 and Micaela Gibson Gordon ’67 and Joyce ’67 Gorton Darlene Harris-Lindsley ’55 Dr. David ’79 and Susan Laha Marlene Lee ’61 Dr. Dean Ellison ’80 and Mary McElligot ++ Robert ’73 and Karen Meyer Dr. Patricia Ann Michaelis ’71 James ’66 and Eileen ’66 Moon David Michael Mortimer ’67 Jeffrey ’85 and Darlene Nicholson Jane ’80 and Brady Philbrick Mary ’98 and John Quinley Ritter Tile Shop/Charlie ’60 and Mike Ritter Salina Area Chamber of Commerce Salina Iron & Metal/Bob Butts Susan Screen ’82

STANTON CIRCLE ($1,886–$2,499) Anderson Family Foundation Robert and Marcia Anderson Mike and Debra Berkley Judy Joyce Calcote John Cox ’68 Kenneth ’63 and Janet ’64 DuBois Focus on the Future Foundation Steve and Pat Freemyer Dr. Rick and Angie Frisbie Tom and Maggie Hemmer Marilyn ’68 and James Kirk Sarah Anne ’61 and James Lindblad Trisha Marietta ’71 Steven and Pamela Michel Jeanette Otto Lorrayn Pickerell ’72 Chester Ross ’52 Betty ’51 and Charles Rudasill Eugene ’60 and Glenna Sheets Sunset Properties/Pat and Linda Bolen Dr. Ed ’64 and Fu Sing Wu Temple

STOLZ CIRCLE ($1,000–$1,885) James and Betsy Alexander Lucerne Anton ’76 Jack ’59 and Barbara Balaun Bank of Tescott Mike Baumberger ’96 BE Wealth/Brandon Ebert Bennington State Bank Dr. Kent and Dena Berquist John Betterson ’69 Dr. Ginny Bevan Dr. Steven ’62 and Jane Blair Philip ’71 and Linda Bowman Dorothy ’61 Boyer* David Branda ’76 Dr. Pete and Rosie Brungardt Kallie and Dennis Burgardt The Rev. Victor ’66 and Eileen ’64 Calcote Dr. J. Marc ’75 and Victoria Carpenter Dr. Yuan and Grace Chiang Carlene Childs Dr. Rebecca Chopp ’74 and Frederick Thibodeau The Rev. Harold Cooper ’59 Dr. Rebecca Copley and Donald Johnson Dr. Kent ’65 and Adrienne Cox Marshall ’62 and Sandra Crowther Disabled American Veterans Melaku Dissassa ’76 Tom and Lou Ann Dunn First Bank Kansas Steve Freemyer Michael ’84 and Wendy Gonzales ’85 Eric ’64 and Mollie ’63 Haberer Harbin Construction Co. The Rev. Duane Harms Dr. Sean ’93 and Kim ’01 Herrington Katie Hoffner

Lloyd Holbrook ’59 Jeffrey Horlacher ’76 Larry ’57 and Barbara Houdek Jerry Jones and Dr. Kathleen Barrett-Jones Darin and Jill Klingensmith Andy ’87 and Kim Kratzer Darrell and Mary Lemon Judith Linville Bruce ’79 and Teri Lyon Ronald ’66 and Gail Magathan Gilford ’62 and Carlyne ’62 Mahaffy The Rev. Loren ’56 and Donna ’57 Marler The Rev. Bruce Marshall ’60 and Janice Rundle Marshall ’61 David Martin ’65 Dr. Gordon and Evelyn Maxwell James ’57 and Karen ’81 McClain Dr. William McCreary ’69 Mark Miller and Julie Sager Miller Bryan and Peggy Minnich Cheryl ’68 and Donald Monaghan Earl Montgomery ’63 Barbara Marshall Nickell Byron ’72 and Sandy ’73 Norris Kenneth and Michelle Oliver Osorio Dental Enterprises/ Dr. James Osorio Dr. Melanie and Rev. Charlie Overton Kaye ’57 and Barbara Pearce Tom Pestinger Dr. Paul ’66 and Karla ’65 Peters Kathryn Petheram ’61 Nick ’68 and Regina Petron Kathleen ’84 and William Pierson Robert ’58 and Karen ’58 Pinkall Kay Quinn ’84 Michael and Susan Ramage Dick and Toni Renfro Martha Rhea Cynthia Richardson-Crooks ’75 Kay ’64 and Max Russell Ryan Mortuary Salina Rotary Club Wayne Schneider Mark and Lisa Speer Bert Stevenson ’66 Patsy ’94 and Steven Stockham Surco LLC The Scoular Co. Dr. Clifford ’51 and Jo Trow Barry ’10 and Lisa Weis Randy and Frieda Mai Weis J. W. Welch ’72 Jeff ’92 and Marcia ’91 Wells Wimer Family Charitable Foundation Marc Wingo ’01 William ’62 and Judith Yeager

MAYO CIRCLE ($500–$999)

(Graduates from the last decade and KWU faculty and staff may join at the Mayo Circle level) Rhonda Bethe Marcus ’79 and Michelle Greene Ken and Jessica Hakoda Mike and Paula Hermann Dr. Steven and Anne Hoekstra Bryan McCullar Jacob Ogle *Denotes Deceased ++ Includes Employer Matching Gift

Endowed Scholarship established to honor longtime professor, Ted Zerger “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others” Mahatma Gandhi When Ted Zerger decided to become a teacher, his call to serve was just beginning. A math professor at KWU from 1961-98, Zerger was not only among the students’ favorite professors, he was the mentor and father-figure that many of them came to cherish. “As a student, I had several classes with Ted, and he was one of my favorite instructors. But Ted had a bigger impact on my life (and many Wesleyan students) outside of the classroom, and his commitment to students was amazing,” said Milton Larson ’82. Ted was the faculty sponsor/mentor for the Black American Student Union in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He and his wife, Vera, provided and served Sunday evening meals to BASU members at Wesleyan and in their home, and housed several students and others needing a place to stay for the summer, a semester, or even longer. “Ted and Vera have quietly led lives of service to others, and set an incredible example for anyone who has known them,” said Larson.  The Zergers left Salina for a few years to serve with Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church in Texas, where Ted taught math to Spanish-speaking students at the Lydia Patterson Institute. It was in Texas that Ted took up running, and upon his return to Salina, became the volunteer assistant coach for KWU cross country and introduced to many, including Larson, the joys and benefits of running. His call to serve included a year with the Mennonite Voluntary Service, serving the University United Methodist Church, 4-H, the Salina Rescue Mission, the Emergency Aid Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and the Audubon Society. He and Vera became charter members of the Salina Mennonite Church and led youth projects in Oklahoma, Alaska and Texas, including many trips with the Mennonite Disaster Services. Charles Jessamy ’72, remembers his time at KWU being heavily influenced by the generosity of the Zergers. “I remember my time at KWU as a minority student. It was a challenging time, but I made it through with the help of Ted Zerger. I’m eternally thankful that the good Lord put him on my path. He and his family opened their hearts and home to me and other minority students. Ted

Ted Zerger, 1974

“I’m happy to pay it forward to a minority student by blessing them with a contribution to this scholarship, and by honoring the legacy of Ted Zerger, a true humanitarian and human being.” — Charles Jessamy ’72 and Vera offered meals on Sundays, provided financial assistance and a home-away-from-home during the holidays. He was someone that made a difference in the lives of minority students at KWU.  "I’m happy to pay it forward to a minority student by blessing them with a contribution to this scholarship, and by honoring the legacy of Ted Zerger, a true humanitarian and human being,” said Jessamy. Larson and Jessamy have provided gifts to an endowed scholarship in Ted Zerger’s honor. The scholarship will be given to a full-time minority student (African-American or Hispanic), who is a sophomore, junior or senior majoring in math or any STEM degree program with at least a 3.0 who is in need of financial assistance. If you would like to contribute to this endowed scholarship, please contact Jennifer Rein, assistant director of Development, at (785) 833-4338

KWU Board and Foundation Elect New Members Michael P. Gonzales ’84

Marilyn K. Kirk ’68

Dr. William McCreary

Steven B. Michel

Four new members were elected to serve three-year terms on the Kansas Wesleyan Board of Trustees at the June Board Meeting: Michael P. Gonzales ’84, Marilyn K. Kirk ’68, Steven B. Michel and Dr. William McCreary. They will join a distinguished group of 21 civic and business leaders that oversees the university and sets its future goals and priorities. Six Trustees were also elected to an additional three-year term on the Board: Charlie Ault-Duell ’05, of Salina, KS; Jerry Norton ’59, of River Forest, IL; Rafael Mendez ’06 of Bentonville, AZ; Mary Quinley G ’98, of Salina, KS; Byron Norris ’72, of Salina, KS; and Glenn Tombaugh ’74 of Wichita, KS. Also, D. Kent Lambert ’72, of Salina, KS, was elected for his second term (five years) as Trustee Emeritus. In addition, two trustees were recognized for their service: Dr. Charles G. Grimwood, Fort Collins, CO, for serving nine years on the Board, including two years as the Board Chair; and Jeremiah Webb ’03, Glendale, CA, for serving four years on the Board. Thomas R. Wilbur was elected to the Kansas Wesleyan Foundation Board. Wilbur joins current members, Ken Ebert and Dennis Berndt of Salina; Theresa Kepple ’86, of Castle Rock, CO; Robert Meyer ’73, of Olathe, KS, and Steve Scofield ’65, of Belleville, KS. Gonzales, a resident of Overland Park, KS, is a senior HR consultant with Savantage Solutions. A 1984 graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University, Gonzales earned a Master of Social Policy from

American University. He spent the majority of his career working for the USDA in the military. Kirk, a resident of Evanston, IL, has had a robust career in higher education with more than 35 years of experience in student affairs, fundraising and development. A 1968 graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University, Kirk earned a Doctorate of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from the University of Kansas. McCreary, a resident of Salt Lake City, UT, is the retired associate dean of Finance, Development & HR at the University of Utah. A 1969 graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University, McCreary pursued graduate studies at the University of Oklahoma and earned a Doctorate of Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. Michel, a resident of Salina, KS, is the retired president and chairman of the Board of First Bank Kansas. Michel previously

BOARD OFFICERS

served on the KWU Board from 2009 through 2018. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Fort Hays State University. Wilbur, a resident of Salina, Kansas, is the managing partner of Wilbur Development, LLC. and brings a wealth of experience and leadership in the banking field to the Foundation Board. “We are so fortunate to have these four individuals as trustees,” said Dr. Matt Thompson. “They have each demonstrated leadership in their respective careers and communities, as well as a dedication to our campus. I am grateful for their commitment to KWU; they will be great additions to our Board of Trustees.” “I appreciate Tom’s commitment to our work and mission and serving the long-term interests of Kansas Wesleyan and our students.”

Board of Trustees:

Foundation Board:

Emily-May Richards Immediate Past Chair

Robert Meyer ’73 Vice Chair

Jeffrey H. Bieber ’71 Chair

Barry Weis ’10 Vice-Chair Jon Starks Treasurer Jane A. Philbrick ’80 Secretary

Ken Ebert Chair

Ken Oliver, Senior Director of Development Administrator Steve Scofield ’65 Treasurer Jan Shirk ’18, Executive Assistant to President Secretary

NEW ASSOCIATION KEEPS

Parents & Families Connected As students experience Kansas Wesleyan, parent and families will also want to take part in their journey. The new Parent and Family Association helps parents and families strengthen their connection with the university and immerse themselves, as their students will, in all that KWU has to offer. All parents, guardians and interested family members of active KWU students are eligible to be members for a $20 annual donation to the university’s annual fund. New members will receive a yard sign or car decal, as well as special communication through the year and invitations to campus events.

For more information or to register, please visit www.kwu.edu/parents.

A Culture of ADVANCEMENT BY THE NUMBERS

Giving

It was a record year for giving at KWU! Thanks to the generous support of our alumni, corporate donors and friends of the university, KWU raised the most annual fund dollars in the history of the university, topping $1.6 million. Here are some additional highlights from our banner fundraising year:

> $300,000 in future estate gifts

1,610,493

Increased number of first-time donors by 10% from 2018-19

700

annual fund donations, surpassing annual goal by $130K

$135,000+ Throws Venue Project

States visited by Advancement staff

Drop-by visits by Advancement staff Increased Alumni Association memberships to

$970,898

600

Endowment and special projects

$73K for Campus Ministry Initiatives

Increased donor retention by 18% from 2018-19

COYOTES GIVE BACK

Each year, hundreds of alumni give back to the university in many ways. Whether you care deeply for a specific initiative or program on campus, or you simply want to help the next generation of Coyotes reach their career goals, you have options to make a difference.

Refer a Coyote

Do you know someone who would be a great fit for our undergraduate or graduate program? Let us know by contacting Esteban Paredes, director of Admissions, at esteban.paredes@kwu. edu. We also welcome recommendations for students who may wish to transfer to KWU!

Provide a KWU student with an internship or interview

Spend some time mentoring a Coyote who is ready to graduate with a degree in your field. Contact Patsy Stockham, career services coordinator at (785) 833-4326.

Join the Alumni Association

For $25, you will receive full membership benefits while supporting the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual fund. Contact Alumni Engagement Officer Kendall Carter at (785) 833-4339 or kendall.carter@kwu.edu

Include KWU in your estate gift

Attend the Heritage Society workshop at Homecoming or call Ken Oliver, senior director of Development, at (785) 833-4342.

Waddell & Reed provides internship opportunities to KWU students like Mitch Kufahl â&#x20AC;&#x2122;17, who is now a full-time financial planner with the company.

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit 122 Salina, KS 67401

100 E. Claflin Ave. Salina, KS 67401-6196

Spring ALUMNI WEEKEND

APRIL 16-18, 2020 • 5K Race

• Alumni Lunch with Faculty, Staff and Students

• Spring Football Game

• Night at the Salina Community Theatre (KWU Spring Musical Collaboration with SCT) • KWU Alumni On Tap Social

• Alumni Volleyball Tournament • Student Gallery Exhibition • The Best of KWU Scholarly Presentation

April 2020 1 2 3 4

We are excited to invite you back to campus on April 16-18 for a weekend that will showcase academic excellence and alumni success with a whole lot of fun mixed in. We’ll keep you informed throughout the fall and winter, and be sure to check our alumni landing page www.kwu.edu/alumni for updated information about the weekend activities. The highlights include: • Career Expo

Save the Date!

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12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

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• Coyote Baseball Series with McPherson • Scholarship Gala • KWU at the Zoo • Worship Service • Alumni BBQ • Alumni College

• Family Alumni Activity at The Alley