Bogey’s New Look! A fresh face and a colorful history to match? That’s our Bogey! Pg. 9
A Clear Path to McKendree University 34 Southern Illinois Counties. One pledge to future Bearcats. Pg. 5
Cover: Bogey may have an all-new look, but have you ever wondered how your alma mater’s mascot came to be the Bearcat? Why has McKendree become the home of this obscure creature, not the Bulldogs, the Tigers or the Eagles? As Illinois’s oldest institution of higher learning, our beloved college has an interesting story behind the mascot. Curious? Check out pg. 9!
Below: The McKendree University Archives received a generous gift from the estate of Edwin G. and Marion E. Gerling of Albert McFarland’s Civil War drum. McFarland was a drummer in Company I of the 117th Illinois Infantry Regiment of Volunteers. It was nicknamed the “McKendree Regiment” because it was made up of a large number of faculty and students from McKendree College.
What’s Inside 5
Feature | Clear Path Initiative
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Feature | It’s a Bearcat!
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Homecoming Highlights
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One McKendree
20 Bearcats Unleashed 24 Alumni Notes
purple fridays are back!
On Fridays we wear purple to show our love for McKendree. And we love to showcase your favorite Friday fashions!
Our Contributors Editorial content, writing and production: Tina (Napper) Tebbe ’08, Director of Communications Krysti Connelly, Executive Director for University Communications and Marketing Matt Seniour, M.A.Ed. ’22, Graphic Design and Multimedia Coordinator
Photography/Writing: Scott Billhartz ’85 Brandi Brown-Harris, M.A. ’10 Stephanie (Coartney) Dulaney ’10 Michael Embrich Michele Erschen Nadia Ghahkenshah Lori Kuper ’20 Holly (Weathers) Sallee ’13, MBA ’18 Whitney (Pankey) Strang ’05 Published twice a year, The McKendrean connects alumni and friends to the McKendree University community. Please send address changes to:
Office of Development, Alumni and Parent Relations 701 College Road Lebanon, IL 62254 Keep in touch! Call 1-800-BEARCAT, ext. 6826, or send e-mail updates to alumni@mckendree.edu.
Dear Campus Community, Alumni and Friends of McKendree, It is hard to believe that we have already begun the spring semester and are eagerly anticipating all the new beginnings that come with the season. Here at McKendree, this spring means getting back on the path to the future. We have all recently faced challenges in living a normal life. Forward momentum has been difficult to accomplish and maintain. Springtime on our campus reminds us that we can and must renew and restore ourselves and our University if we are to effectively accomplish our mission of providing a highquality educational experience to outstanding students. Speaking of renewing, you may have noticed that the magazine you currently hold looks a little different. That’s because it is. This new and exciting project holds elements of the old magazine while giving McKendree a fresh voice and truly shining a spotlight on the people who make the University great – people like you. We’ve renamed the magazine The McKendrean in homage to the old yearbooks, which captured our stories and the memories we made here on campus.
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As we move forward, we hope that this nod to our treasured past will help keep you even more connected in the future to the place you call home. When you chose to become a Bearcat, you signed up for a unique experience that built a pathway toward your future. We are hoping to continue giving future students the chance to grow as people, learn, and become empowered on their path to success. You can read all about our latest initiative to accomplish this – Clear Path – in this magazine. Attending college is an expensive proposition, which is why now more than ever we are reaching out to show families in the surrounding communities that receiving an excellent education by attending McKendree is possible. In our Clear Path feature, you will learn how former Bearcats from Southern Illinois made their marks on their communities – and how future generations can do the same. There are countless things to love about McKendree, but one of the things everyone can rally around is our beloved mascot, Bogey. That causes me to pause and think – how did we wind up becoming the Bearcats? Where did Bogey come from? And was there really a bear that lived on campus and interacted with our students? While Bogey has certainly changed throughout the years, there’s no doubt that this happy purple Bearcat puts a smile on everyone’s faces.
No one knows this better than the people who donned the Bogey suit with pride. In our second feature, you’ll get to read about tales behind the mask and see what it was really like to become Bogey. While campus life is more normal than it was last year at this time, we are not yet completely back to “normal.” McKendree has a long history of pulling together to provide a high-quality educational experience to its students, and we continue to epitomize those efforts. In spite of all the challenges we have had to face, the campus community has worked hard to persevere as One McKendree, and I could not be prouder. Please be sure to take the time to stop by and say hello, enjoy a beverage or treat from the 1828 Café, take in a show, lecture, or film at the Hett, or attend an athletic event. After all, the University will always be your home away from home, and we would love to see you! Thank you for all that you do every day to make McKendree the wonderful place it is today, whether you’re near or far. It’s because of people like you that I remain proud to be a Bearcat!
Together, We Are One McKendree!
Daniel C. Dobbins ’81 President | McKendree University
Choosing to become a Bearcat means more than earning your degree. You’re signing up for a unique experience that will build a solid pathway to your future. We believe this initiative will allow us to make an even greater impact on the Southern Illinois region.” - President Daniel C. Dobbins ’81
Giving Back to Southern Illinois through New Tuition Initiative Feature by Stephanie (Coartney) Dulaney ’10 McKendree’s mission has always been about more than simply satisfying the academic requirements of a college education. With a bolder vision of success, the Bearcat family dares to dream big when it comes to what its students and alums can accomplish. McKendree’s tradition of providing an experience that educates the whole person has shaped graduates who go on to make a difference in the world, inspire others to succeed and bring important change to their communities. In the same way, the University also recognizes the importance of giving back to its own community and the people who call Southern Illinois home. Starting in the fall of 2022, McKendree will launch its Clear Path Tuition Initiative, making a promise to its neighbors in 34 Southern Illinois counties to keep tuition costs low even as high inflation rates continue to plague the country. The pledge ensures that residents in the following Illinois counties will pay no more than $15,000 in tuition and fees to attend McKendree: Alexander, Bond, Clay, Clinton, Crawford, Edwards, Effingham, Fayette, Franklin, Gallatin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Johnson, Lawrence, Madison, Marion, Massac, Monroe, Perry, Pope, Pulaski, Randolph, Richland, St. Clair, Saline, Union, Wabash, Washington, Wayne, White and Williamson Counties.
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Ptosha “Rocki” Rockingham ’89 Trailblazer has always been a fitting description for East St. Louis native and McKendree alum Rocki Rockingham ’89. Currently the chief human resource officer for GE Appliances, she has held major leadership positions in such Fortune 500 corporations as Chrysler, General Motors, Sunbeam, Jarden Consumer Relations and Newell Brands. It’s the ways she gives back and inspires others to dream bigger, however, that truly reflect her definition of a life well lived. Choosing to attend McKendree was something of a family affair for Rocki. Her mother and aunts are alumni, and she was looking for a college close to home whose strong academic and athletic programs would allow her to grow. A member of Student Government and the women’s basketball team, Rocki found a place that enabled her to tap into that trailblazing spirit and cultivate the skills she would use throughout her career. She was one of the first students of color to serve as editor of the McKendree Review student newspaper and to be elected as Homecoming Queen.. “I loved helping the University move itself to become more diverse,” she said. “I’ve always had the instinct to challenge the status quo. When people are brave enough to take positions and be great influencers, change can happen.” Majoring in public relations and journalism, Rocki sought a career path that fit her skills in writing and negotiating. After graduation, she worked in various positions in corporate communications, public affairs, government affairs and community relations. She spent 12 years in the auto industry and the next 22 years in consumer products. “My first job after McKendree took me to Flint, Mich.,” she said. “I’ve lived all over the world and almost every state in the U.S. My career gave me the opportunity to spread my wings, but I always followed my passion.” Now the head of Human Resources in a global company, Rocki enjoys inspiring creativity and innovation among thousands of employees. That urge to benefit others spills into her volunteerism as well. She mentors youth, organizes charitable events and serves on countless boards to address issues from hunger and literacy to foster care. “I do it because someone did it for me,” she said. “It’s important for me to pour into the lives of younger people and help them live their destiny daily.” Although she’s lived all over the world, Rocki says Southern Illinois will always be home. She continues to give back locally, taking an active role in organizations to improve education and heal racial divides in the area.
Ryan Anderson ’01 As lead prosecutor for the City of Bellingham, Wash., Ryan Anderson ’01 may be far from his hometown of Belleville, Ill., but Midwestern values are at the core of who he is today. McKendree enabled Ryan to stay close to family and friends while he earned a history degree. He eagerly took advantage of every opportunity the University offered to get involved in campus life and soon found himself leading the Model UN program, competing on the debate team, writing for the McKendree Review and even traveling to Japan for the Technos trip. After graduation, he moved to Syracuse, N.Y., to become a college professor, but quickly realized it wasn’t the path for him. Upon taking the LSAT exam, he discovered his high score and extensive list of McKendree extracurriculars gave him several options for law school. “I’ve often said that I got into law school based on my grades and LSAT score, but I received scholarships to attend law school because my resume was so packed full of student activities,” he said. Ryan met his wife Angela in law school, and the two moved to Washington, where he began his career as prosecutor for the city of Bellingham. Now the lead prosecutor managing the city’s law office, Ryan enjoys working with the police, mentoring attorneys and taking coffee breaks with his wife, who is now a Whatcom County District Court Judge. The most fulfilling part of his job, however, is being able to enact meaningful change in his community.
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He initiated the city’s Mental Health Court program and brought the use of Electronic Home Detention as an alternative to jail to every court system in the county. “Putting people in jail simply to put people in jail is such a tired approach,” said Ryan. “There are certainly times when it is necessary. However, instead of running that same approach every time, we try to address the causes of criminal behavior in different ways. Getting people plugged into services to get into housing or treatment and then seeing them stabilize and gain employment is the greatest accomplishment for me personally.” While he feels most at home in Washington now, Ryan remembers the values of hard work, dedication and respect for others that he learned in Southern Illinois and passes onto his children today. “To live in a place with snowcapped mountains on one side and the Puget Sound on the other is an incredible experience,” he said. “That said, I will always appreciate my upbringing in Illinois and the opportunities that my education from McKendree gave me.”
Dr. Karyle Penelton ’03 More than two decades later, Dr. Karyle Penelton can still recall the name of the boy who touched her heart and awakened that deep level of compassion for people that she would take into her career in healthcare. She was volunteering at Second Chance Homeless Shelter with her fellow McKendree students when she met him. “I will never forget a young kid named Carl,” she said. “He was so impressed by the fact that we lived at school. He wanted to grow up and live at school like us. I think those early interactions helped shape my desire to learn more about people and understand what we have in common.” A native of Edwardsville, Ill., Karyle came to McKendree to run track, play basketball and take advantage of the quality academic programs that would prepare her for graduate school. She majored in psychology with minors in physical education and management, then went on to earn her master’s in sport psychology and doctorate in physical therapy. “I’ve always had a passion for helping others, which is the universal reason to go into healthcare,” she said. “I’ve always been interested in the mind-body connection, enhancing physical performance and injury prevention. Physical therapy provides an opportunity to do that and so much more on a daily basis.” Today, Karyle is a licensed physical therapist, certified orthopedic specialist, certified spinal manual therapist and manager of the SSM Health Physical Therapy Center in Swansea, Ill. She enjoys working with patients of all ages to treat issues such as concussions, dizziness, plantar fasciitis, as well as some neurological cases involving multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s. Her favorite part of the job is helping people reach their goals, whether it’s progressing from a walker to a cane or returning to collegiate or professional sports. “I like getting people to achieve things that they thought were in the past, things that they forgot they enjoyed doing, little things that make a world of difference for them,” she said. “For example, a recent patient was able to stand for the entire song selections at church on a Sunday. Normally she would have to sit. And she even felt like going out to lunch after church. That’s my why: getting people back to what they enjoy!” The 2019 Academy of Excellence awardee is grateful to be able to do what she loves in the same region that she grew up. Thanks to the unique experiences she gained at McKendree, she found a nurturing environment to grow into the person she is today and make a difference in the lives of so many patients in Southern Illinois.
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The Karnes Family: Bob ’66, Jason ’98, M.A.Ed. ’21 and Jarrod ’99. They’ve made sport history as athletes and coaches. They’ve brought widespread attention to their small hometowns with their winning records. But it’s the joy in mentoring young people and watching them succeed that’s the real reward for this family of educators and coaches. A native of Harrisburg, Ill., Bob Karnes ’66 first came to McKendree as a transfer student and fell in love with the family atmosphere that reminded him of home. He played basketball and baseball for the Bearcats and still recalls good memories traveling with teammates and playing in the old gym known fondly as “The Tunnel.” As a physical education major, Bob set his sights on continuing his passion for athletics through coaching. He graduated in 1966, but was able to remain at McKendree as a graduate assistant coach for a time. When the head basketball coach had to leave the season early due to illness, Bob took an active role in leading the Bearcats during their last few games. “It’s little-known trivia, but I actually coached the last winning game before Harry Statham ’60 took charge the next season,” he said. After McKendree, Bob went on to an impressive career as a teacher and football coach for Du Quoin High School from 1968-1987. During his first year, he made school history leading the team to a record of 10-0, their first undefeated season ever. In his 20 seasons as head coach, he ended with a winning record 17 times, won five conference championships and qualified for state playoffs four times. His proudest moment was being able to coach his three sons, Jeff, Jason and Jarrod, in State Championship games. Bob made history again when he was inducted into the Southern Illinois High School Coaches Hall of Fame in 1988.
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While Bob’s impact on high school football was truly remarkable, his ability to inspire his sons was just as great. Jason Karnes ’98, M.A.Ed. ’21 and Jarrod Karnes ’99 both attended McKendree to make school history on the first Bearcat football team. Jason served as quarterback and was most proud of making the playoffs during the team’s second year. Jarrod remembers getting dressed for practices out of their cars because they didn’t have a field or locker room yet. “We had the opportunity to be pioneers and build a foundation for the program,” Jarrod said. “We were ranked fourth in the nation by my senior year in 1999.” Like their father, Jason and Jarrod both chose to major in physical education and make a difference for the next generation of players and students. Jason currently teaches physical education and driver’s education at Herrin High School, but he previously coached strength and conditioning, football, basketball and track, as well as served as assistant athletic director. Jarrod went on to coach baseball, football, wrestling and track, bringing home a State Championship in wrestling. He now serves as a physical education teacher at General John A. Logan Elementary School in Murphysboro, Ill. “I spend more time tying shoes now, but it’s a lot of fun,” he joked. “I’m the guy in charge of the scooters and parachute.” Both sons knew they wanted to stay in Southern Illinois to give back to the region like their father. “My dad has always been my hero,” said Jason. “But in 1986 when he took his team to the State Championship game, that’s when I really knew I wanted to follow in his footsteps and become a teacher and coach.” Jarrod agrees that it’s that drive to help others achieve greatness that motivates the Karnes family. “Coaching takes up a lot of time,” he said. “You do it because you have a passion for kids, watching them succeed and knowing you had an impact on them.”
is it a bear? is it a cat? no way! Feature by Tina (Napper) Tebbe ’08
wait, a bear – on campus?! In the early days of McKendree’s athletic teams, the mascot was actually and truly a bear. Long ago, a large cage sat about 20 feet to the northwest of Pearsons Hall, very close to where Voigt Hall is today. In that cage lived the real live mascot – a bear cub. Each year a student would be voted as the honorary “Keeper of the Bear,” a duty held in high esteem. The mascot, “Susie,” would often wander around campus with a long chain attached to her collar, pop in and out of classroom buildings, and even accompany Coach Glen Filley and the football, basketball and track teams on road trips. In fact, it was said that she often kept him warm on the ride home on cold nights in the period of Model T open-air transportation.
what even is a bearcat, anyway? In the early 1910s and 1920s, the Model T was quite popular – and among the pinnacle of that popularity was the Stutz Bearcat, a snazzy status symbol for the wealthy of that time. “It’s a bear” and “It’s a cat” were common expressions at the time, and the students ran with it to help form a new mascot, one that would indicate a superior quality. Inquisitive students decided to consult the dictionary to see what a bearcat really was. According to Webster, it’s technically a type of weasel, a cat-like creature with a small bear-like body, with “gleaming eyes and snarling countenance.” What better mascot to intimidate the competition while reinforcing a prestigious nature than one such as this?
a familiar face
The latest Bogey took the spotlight in 2021. With large eyes, golden ears and a joyful smile full of beautiful pearly whites, this fit Bogey now sports McKendree garb just like the University’s fans.
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enter bogey: Our Purple Protagonist With the absence of a live mascot, McKendree was in need of something every Bearcat could get behind. The first appearance of Bogey came in the 1960s in the form of a simple bear mask, which was worn with a McKendree M Club Sweater. In the early 1980s, a full-bodied mascot emerged, a brown suit with blazing green eyes and the name “BOGIE” stitched across its middle.
tales from behind the mask We always take Bogey at face value, but do we ever take the time to look beyond the mask and consider the person within? The lucky students who donned the suit have their own experiences as our favorite Bearcat and, while each viewpoint is unique, they often share similarities. For one, the costume itself is heavy, often hard to see out of and, undoubtedly, hot, even with the addition of ice packs. But whether these students have been our mascot during Homecoming, at McKendree sporting events, or national events, one thing’s for sure – wearing the suit is fun and always worth it when it comes to seeing everyone’s unbridled joy. Here are a few short excerpts from a couple of former Bogeys:
Discovering a New Way to Show School Spirit When psychology major Paul Wesselman ’89 was a resident advisor at McKendree, he didn’t normally attend sporting events. When another RA asked Paul to fill in for her as “Bogie,” he reluctantly agreed. Then, he discovered that performing as Bogie was a really fun way for him to not only enjoy the game but also show his school spirit.
Walking a Mile in Bogey’s Shoes Everyone knows how hot and arduous walking in a midsummer parade can be, but imagine doing so in a big purple Bearcat costume – and without shoes. Organizational communication major Natalie (Davis) Jablonski ‘99 donned the suit for Lebanon’s homecoming parade in the heat of July and had an unforgettable experience. “My shoes wouldn’t fit inside Bogey’s feet, so I had to walk with only my socks inside the costume. With little padding on the costume, I remember my feet being so hot from walking on the blacktop streets!” she said.
Seeing people’s faces light up when I walked up to them made it all worth it, though. Everyone would always smile and offer me high-fives and hugs, and that always made me smile, no matter how hot I was in the costume.
A self-described “super extrovert,” Paul found it very hard to not talk behind the mask. “Learning how to communicate enthusiasm and other emotions without using words or sounds was a fascinating challenge,” he said. “Using big hand gestures and exaggerated head and body movements became almost second nature to me, and continues to this day, helping me in my work as a keynote speaker and workshop facilitator.”
As a communication major, Natalie held an edge playing our favorite Bearcat. “Without being able to talk, you had to express Bogey’s reactions and interactions nonverbally. I would ask myself, ‘How would Dr. Betsy Gordon react to this situation using only nonverbal cues?’ Being a mascot also meant operating with limited airflow, limited vision, limited mobility – and forgetting all of that to make someone smile.”
Although he had the pleasure of being Bogey for local basketball games and also traveling with the team and cheerleaders to Kansas City for national playoffs one year, Paul enjoyed interacting with fans young and old. “Engaging with adults was often quite a hoot,” he said. “I was initially surprised at how many people experienced a sort of ‘awe’ when interacting with Bogie – like they were meeting a celebrity. Many adults would get downright giddy! Selfies weren’t yet a thing back then, but plenty of people wanted to pose with Bogie while someone else snapped a photo.”
Little did Natalie know that being Bogey would lead to a lifetime of mascot requests. “Since graduation, I have served as several mascots, including the Easter Bunny, Mrs. Clause and, most recently, the Schnucks Soldier,” she said. “Bogey’s more than a mascot. He inspires our students to be courageous, strong, and tenacious both in school and in life.”
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Later in the 1990s, Bogey got a slight name change and took on the royal hue of purple that we know and love today. With friendly eyes, a happy smile and a shaggy scruff, this Bogey became even more well-known throughout campus until the mid-2000s, when another iteration of Bogey was born. Fierce with golden eyes, this streamlined Bearcat embodied the passion and tenacity that dozens of McKendree athletic teams possessed.
Becoming a Part of Something Bigger
what’s bogey up to now?
Elementary education major Allison (Hunter) Downing ’00 wore the friendly purple Bearcat costume consistently through 1998 to 2000 and wound up impacting her family and friends behind the mask so much that she actually earned the nickname Bogey.
Bogey dressed up and helped the School of Business in cutting the purple ribbon at Bogey’s Career Closet’s grand opening on Friday, Oct. 1. Established by Career Services and the School of Business, Bogey’s Career Closet allows currently enrolled McKendree students to select new or gently-used business attire donated by faculty, staff, students, alumni and community residents.
“I loved being funny for the kids as Bogey, especially for my little cousins and some kids I would be a nanny for in town,” she said. “I really loved getting pictures with them as Bogey. Being Bogey helped me get to know more people!” In spite of the challenges that wearing the costume brought, Allison recalls how rewarding it was. “You could see how happy Bogey made people and picked up their spirits,” she said. “It made me feel special, like I was a part of the team and something that was valued and important. When you’re Bogey, you’re kind of on everyone’s team.”
The goal of Bogey’s Career Closet is to help students prepare for success by providing them with business attire to use for networking events, career fairs, interviews and other professional events.
Basking in an Exhilarating Joy Perhaps the freshest Bogey in most of our minds is the fierce Bogey that dominated the 2010s. Secondary education major Mason Kuper ’19 remembers representing McKendree through the mask from 2017 to 2018 in several events, especially during Nationals in which he competed in a mascot competition. “Attending Nationals as Bogey was definitely an amazing experience,” he said. “It was really incredible to be a part of something so exciting!” Mason also helped keep Bearcat fans on their feet with the help of the cheerleaders. One of his favorite memories is participating in the “Bogey Basket,” in which a group of cheerleaders tossed him up into the air as Bogey to get the crowd pumped up. “That experience was pretty exhilarating and funny!” he remarked. And of course, Mason remembers interacting with the young Bearcat fans as Bogey. “It was neat to be behind the mask and see the joy and excitement when kids got to meet Bogey,” he said. “I wasn’t sure what to expect at first when I was asked to be Bogey, but for me personally, it was a privilege to feel like part of the team and represent McKendree.”
“Research shows that it only takes a few seconds for someone to form an impression of an individual and decide if they could be a good fit for their organization, even before they have the opportunity to speak,” said Jennifer (Harris) Pickerell ’99, director of Career Services. “It is for this reason that we opened Bogey’s Career Closet – to provide students with the attire that they need to help them look and feel their best as they enter the next stage in their lives.” Located in Clark Hall, Bogey’s Career Closet is open by appointment only from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mondays through Thursdays. Members of the University or the community can also bring their gently-used, upto-date, and laundered donations for students to use. Items including suits for men and women, dress shirts and blouses, dress pants, contemporary suit jackets or blazers, skirts, closed-toed dress shoes, ties, belts, portfolios and other accessories will be accepted Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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HOMECOMING Highlights
After celebrating Homecoming virtually last year during the pandemic, Bearcats from near and far were reunited on campus during this year’s Homecoming Weekend from October 22 to 24. On this beautiful fall weekend, alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the University enjoyed a row of local food trucks, the much-loved parade, Bearcat football and, of course, plenty of time laughing, sharing stories and basking in one another’s presence.
ALUMNI AWARDS
A Homecoming tradition, McKendree University celebrated several accomplished alumni at an awards dinner on Oct. 23 at the Hett.
Peter Akers Award
Derwood “Woody” Derickson ’60 Woody earned a degree in physical education from McKendree, and he played both baseball and basketball during his playing days at the University. In 2015, he was inducted into the Bearcats Sports Hall of Fame. A native of Mascoutah, Ill., he began his career as an agent with State Farm in O’Fallon, Ill. in 1965, providing loyal service until his retirement in 2018. Among his many impressive accolades as a State Farm agent, Woody made the President’s Club for being one of the top 50 agents nationwide. In the O’Fallon community, Woody remained an active member of the Rotary Club and the Lions Club. He also served on the O’Fallon community library board and numerous committees, including the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce and more. Throughout the years, Woody has remained a loyal fan as a member of the William McKendree Society, the McKendree Bearcat Booster Club, and a Friend of the Hett. He served as a member of the McKendree University Board of Trustees for 16 years and was the 1999 recipient of the McKendree University Loyal Service Award. Woody and his wife, Gail, have been married for 61 years. Together, they have two children, Teri Fleshren and Todd Derickson; and three grandchildren, Erin Fleshren, Kristin Fleshren, and Drew Derickson. His son, Todd, is a 1987 McKendree graduate, and his granddaughter, Erin, is a 2018 McKendree graduate who currently serves on the McKendree University Alumni Board of Directors. The Alumni Association’s highest honor recognizes remarkable professional success, outstanding service, and unparalleled loyalty to McKendree University.
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Chosen by the Alumni Association Board, the 2021 winners have made their mark in their professions and at their alma mater.
Loyal Service Award
Shirley Baugh ’78 Shirley graduated from McKendree with a degree in business administration. As a student, she was active in Alpha Omega and Student Government. Originally from Shiloh, Ill., Shirley started at McKendree as a payroll specialist in 1997, moving through the different positions of the office with role models who supported her as she worked on her master’s degree in human resources from Webster University. She would eventually work her way into the role of director of human resources in 2005, until her retirement in February 2021. As a staff member, Shirley organized groups of alumni from the 70s in a variety of activities, including homecoming events, reunions and summer visits to campus. Many alumni contacted her through her office when their children were considering college choices, and she helped coordinate campus visits. She was also as an advisor to the Alpha Omega sorority and served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors. During the awards ceremony, she was bestowed with the designation of Emeritus Staff in recognition of her loyalty, dedication and extraordinary service to the University. A resident of O’Fallon, Ill., Shirley is a member of the William McKendree Society and Christ Church in Fairview Heights, and is a former school board member for Grant School District 110 from 1993-2013. Shirley has two sons and daughters-in-law, Kyle and Lyndsey Jacob and Keith ‘07 and Julianne (Harris) Jacob ’07, along with five grandchildren, Berkeley, Baylor, Layker, Libby, and Kolby Jacob. Recipients have shown distinguished, loyal service to the Alumni Association, its principles and purposes, and their commitment has enhanced the University’s goals and mission.
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These graduates of the past decade have made significant achievements in their professions or chosen fields and have been highly involved with the University or their communities.
Reginald “Reggie” Cloyd ’12
Dr. Michael A. Lampe ’14
Dr. Kaitlyn Kollmann ’12
Reggie earned a degree in political science with a criminal justice emphasis. A native of Danville, Ill., he was the captain and scholarathlete on McKendree’s football team, participated in multiple volunteering activities and mentored several underclassmen in academics.
Michael graduated with a degree in biology. During his time as a student, he played as a defensemen for the men’s ice hockey team for four years, was a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and achieved the Tyson Undergraduate Research Fellowship. He went on to earn a doctorate of osteopathic medicine at A.T. Still University – Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Mo. in 2019, and is currently working on his general surgery residency from Metro Health University of Michigan Health in Wyoming, Mich.
Kaitlyn earned a degree in biology and was a member of the women’s volleyball team, Sigma Zeta and the study abroad program. Formerly from Collinsville, Ill., she was selected as the McKendree Tyson Undergraduate Research Fellow.
After graduation, Reggie went on to earn his law degree from the University of Illinois College of Law in 2015, graduating with honors. Since then, he has worked as a commercial litigation associate at Tressler LLP in Chicago, Clark Hill PLC in Chicago and, most recently, Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP in Indianapolis. In 2019, he was named an Illinois Rising Star by Super Lawyers and also served as the keynote speaker for the 54th Annual Lincoln-Douglass-King Banquet. He maintains the philanthropic spirit he learned while at McKendree by spending 30 hours a year volunteering in Chicago and also working on at least five pro-bono matters annually. A resident of Fishers, Ind., Reggie is married to his wife Maya and loves traveling the world. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his dog, fishing and playing softball.
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A resident of Grand Rapids, Mich., Michael currently serves as a clinical associate professor in the Department of Osteopathic Surgical Specialties and as a surgical clinical skills lab instructor at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lansing, Mich. His passion lies in trauma and acute care surgery. Currently, he is involved in the development of an enhanced recovery protocol for patients who undergo a laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis. When he is out of the operating room, Michael enjoys spending time with his girlfriend, Shelby, and their Dutch shepherd, Whisper, as well as golfing, boating and spending time outdoors.
Following graduation, Kaitlyn completed her medical schooling at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine in Springfield, Ill., where she received honors in her internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery and psychiatry clerkships. The Chicago resident then completed a year of research in pediatric dermatology at Northwestern University in Chicago and also completed her dermatology residency training at Kansas University in Kansas City, Kan., in July 2021, where she was selected to serve as chief resident during her final year. After finishing her residency training, she completed her medical internship at St. Francis Hospital in Evanston, Ill. Kaitlyn is currently a full-time dermatologist at Advanced Skin and Mohs Surgery Clinic in Chicago, where her personal interests include medical, surgical and pediatric dermatology. She treats patients of all ages and skin types. In her spare time, she enjoys fitness, traveling and reading.
Inductees have made exceptional contributions to the honor and prestige of the University through their achievements, leadership and character, and have demonstrated the values of a liberal arts education in their professions or chosen fields.
Adam Kee ’04 | Humanities Adam Kee graduated with a degree in theatre and music/vocal performance. He was involved in theatre productions, choir and vocal groups, marching band, and acted as president of Alpha Psi Omega National Theatre Honor Society. A native of Johnston City, Ill., Adam earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in acting from New School University in New York City in 2007, receiving additional acting training from Old Vic Theatre in London and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. The Astoria, N.Y. resident currently works as an actor, voiceover artist and teaching artist. He has performed in several productions as an actor and vocalist for Off-Broadway in New York City, Regional Theatre, Summer Stock Theatres and more. A five-time nominee for the New Hampshire Professional Theatre Award, Adam recently acted in the role of Thomas in The Garden Left Behind, an awardwinning independent film in which he also served as the voice and dialect coach and trainer.
Jackie Shubert Knolhoff ’02 | Language, Literature & Communication Jackie graduated with a degree in speech communication with an emphasis in public relations. A native of Okawville, Ill., she played on the women’s basketball team for four years, was a resident advisor for two years, was a member of Lambda Pi Eta and worked in the University Communications and Marketing department for three years. Additionally, she was an NAIA Scholar Athlete for the 2001-2002 school year. Jackie obtained her master’s degree in communication management from Webster University in 2005. She began working in financial services in 2002 and is currently a communications advisor for Wells Fargo Advisors. A long-time supporter of the United Way of Greater St. Louis and member of the Women’s Leadership Society, Jackie is a strong supporter of the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, where she volunteers in creating awareness in St. Louis’ most vulnerable youth.
Rebekah (Shryock) McGarrity ’90 | Education Rebekah holds a degree in English and secondary education with a minor in history. A native of Millstadt, Ill., she played volleyball for four years on the Bearcat varsity team and was a member of Phi Kappa Delta. She helped establish Sigma Tau Delta and Phi Alpha Theta, honor societies for English and history, respectively. Following graduation, Rebekah began her career as an English teacher at Belleville East High School and also served as a volleyball coach. She helped establish the St. Louis University dual college credit program for the school district, serving as its first coordinator. Since then, thousands of students have received college credit. In 1999, Rebekah earned her Master of Arts degree in English from Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, Ill., later achieving her National Board certification.
Matt Scaglione ’01 | Mathematics, Science & Technology Matt graduated with a degree in biology. A native of Du Quoin, Ill., Matt played football for McKendree for four years, was a resident advisor for two years and was the treasurer for Sigma Zeta. After graduation, he earned his doctorate in biochemistry of medicine from Saint Louis University in 2007. Matt has served as an assistant professor at Medical College of Wisconsin and Duke University. He has published dozens of articles in scientific journals and has a few patents, including one for SRCP1-based therapy for Huntington’s and related diseases. Matt has participated in science outreach programs, including the SMART team, a program that teaches high school students about the structure and function of proteins. In the past, he participated in interviewing students for McKendree’s presidential scholarship.
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Sports Hall of Fame
Inductees are athletes, former coaches, alumni coaches or sports professionals who, through leadership and character, have made exceptional contributions to the honor and prestige of McKendree in the field of athletics.
Darron Randle ’92 | Men’s Basketball Darron graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. He was a four-year starter at point guard for the men’s basketball team and two-year team captain. He ranks 20th on the Bearcat all-time scoring list with 1,553 career points, and is also 10th in free-throws made with 387. Darron was named to the District 20 All-Freshman team in 1989, and ranked in the top 20 in scoring (16.3 average) as a sophomore in 1990. He helped lead the Bearcats to a 9144 overall record in four seasons. Off the court, Darron mentors, tutors and provides life coaching for at-risk youth in the inner city. In 2002, he founded – and currently leads – Urban Alliances of Metropolitan Chicago, a nonprofit social service agency for inner city families. He has served as Executive Director for 10 years. Darron has two children, Chastity Spencer and Darron Randle Jr.
Scott Cummings | Sports Information Director Scott served as McKendree’s Sports Information Director (SID) from 1999 to 2020 and was also the voice of Bearcat Athletics. He passed away on December 3, 2020, following an 18-month battle with cancer. His wife, Paula, and children, Hailey Edison and Ryan Cummings, were in attendance to receive the award in his honor. For more than 20 years, Scott was the ultimate servant, often spending 70-80 hours per week strictly focusing on promoting Bearcat studentathletes. He was a mentor to many and a friend to all. Scott had a “cando” attitude, willingness and a desire to put others first. He received countless awards throughout his career, including the Clarence “Ike” Pearson Award in 2005, the highest honor that can be given to an SID at the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) level, and was recognized in 2020 with the College Sports Information Directors of America 25-Year Award for his long-time commitment and service to the athletic communications profession. Following his passing, the American Midwest Conference changed the name of the conference’s annual SID of the Year award in honor of Scott and named him to its 2022 Hall of Fame Induction Class. He was also recently selected for induction into the 2021-22 NAIA Hall of Fame.
Melissa Ringhausen | Women’s Basketball Coach Melissa served as McKendree’s women’s basketball coach for 18 seasons from 1997 to 2015, and spent the final 11 years of her career in administration from 2010 to 2020. Over her 18 seasons leading the Bearcats, Melissa guided McKendree to 316 victories and is the program’s all-time leader in wins. She coached the Bearcats to 11 20-win seasons, including a school-record 26 victories during the 2004-2005 campaign. Under Melissa’s leadership, McKendree reached the NAIA Division I National Championship nine times. In the classroom, Melissa’s teams were recognized among the NAIA’s top 25 academic teams on six different occasions by the WBCA. McKendree also enjoyed a 100 percent graduation rate among those who completed their four years within the program.
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Dr. Schutzenhofer Honored for Excellence in Teaching An interactive and enthusiastic instructor who provides individualized attention to each student is McKendree’s 2021 recipient of the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. Dr. Michele “Mickey” Schutzenhofer ’03, professor of biology, was among more than 80 St. Louis-area educators who were honored for their outstanding contribution to the teaching profession.
Jessica Hoffmann is our 2021 Student Laureate Jessica Hoffmann, who excels in mathematics and nurtures a passion for helping others, is our 2021 Student Lincoln Laureate. The Lincoln Academy awards the State of Illinois’ highest student honor for leadership, service and excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities, and Jessica more than fits the bill. “Jessica exemplifies the characteristics of a Student Laureate,” said Dr. Alan Alewine, associate provost. “She is passionate about her future work as a high school mathematics teacher, and it is certain that she will be a devoted mentor for the young people under her supervision.” The newly-graduated secondary education mathematics major from Belleville, Ill., was a highly active member of the Lyn Huxford Center for Community Service on campus, participating in and even coordinating numerous service projects. Two of her favorite service projects include volunteering at Cedar Ridge Nursing Home and Without Limits Dance Company, both in Lebanon. “It feels good to bring joy to someone’s life,” Jessica said. “It’s also important to remain open-minded because the people one serves will often help someone right back. Everyone has a story to tell and a lesson to share, and these are what I love to share with the people I volunteer for when giving back.” As a student, Jessica was a member of the McKendree varsity women’s soccer team, Phi Kappa Phi, Sigma Zeta, Phi Eta Sigma and Pi Mu Epsilon. Her true passion lies in mathematics and teaching her future students problem-solving skills. “Math is tricky, yet rewarding, and that is something I wish to share with today’s youth,” she said. “I want to make class enjoyable so that my students enjoy coming and can later become successful adults.”
A native of Staunton, Ill., Mickey has been serving as a professor of biology at McKendree since 2007. As Provost Fellow, she works on coordinating professional development activities for faculty. She is also a former chairperson of the Division of Science and Mathematics from 2014 to 2020 and received the 2016 United Methodist Church Exemplary Teaching Award. “She is extremely supportive, level-headed, compassionate, inquisitive, self-driven, trustworthy, reliable and, most importantly, humble,” said Dr. Alan Alewine, associate provost. “In her upper-level courses, she recruits students to work on research projects with her, and they gleefully do so. While instructing them about the research process, she instills in them a sense of ownership and responsibility.” Mickey is also very involved in her research, particularly in documenting bee communities on rare hilltop prairies along the bluff corridor in Illinois. Her work has allowed her to provide authentic research experiences to several students, one of whom is now in a graduate program researching bees.
Founders Day February 20th 2022
Join us in the formal installation of the Reverend Dr. Beverly Wilkes-Null at 2 p.m. in Bothwell Chapel! Email us for info and updates: alumni@mckendree.edu
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CLASS OF 2025
Bidding a Fond Farewell to Dr. Jackie Simmons ’88 A much-loved professor of psychology, who enlightened and enriched the lives of countless students within Carnegie Hall, is bidding farewell to her teaching days and beginning her much-deserved retirement. Dr. Jackie (Kemp) Simmons ’88 began her teaching career at McKendree in the fall of 2000. Her students will remember her as a teacher who worked diligently to improve both their professional and personal lives. Throughout her time at McKendree, Jackie won several prestigious awards, including the Norman Grandy Faculty Award in 2003, and traveled to Japan in 2009 with two students as part of Technos International Education Week. She has authored many publications and has given several presentations on a local, national and global level – even in places as far-flung as London, Rome, Tokyo and Granada, Spain. She has also participated in dozens of on-campus services, which added to her understanding of what it takes to become a well-rounded and effective professor, including Student Affairs, the Minority Affairs Committee, First Year Experience and many more. As she reflects on her McKendree career, Jackie fondly recalls each graduation day when Bearcats walked across the platform to receive their diplomas. “I have always loved the pomp and circumstances of graduation, but more importantly knowing that our students are beginning a new phase of their lives brings me so much joy and peace,” she said. “I am grateful to God for granting me the privilege to make a difference in the lives of so many students.” In addition to seeing McKendree graduates receive their hard-earned degrees, Jackie will miss engaging with the campus community. “I will miss spending personal time with my students because those moments enriched my life, and I will miss daily interactions with my colleagues in Carnegie Hall and others on campus,” she noted. “I thank them most sincerely for their love and support.” Her final words of wisdom that she’d like to impart with her students and colleagues? “Continue to enrich the lives of everyone you meet,” she said. The University community congratulates and thanks Jackie, who taught our Bearcats the ins and outs of psychology and served our campus community for 21 years!
Student Financial Services has a New Home! McKendree’s Student Financial Services is now every Bearcat’s one-stop department for everything regarding financial aid or student account needs. Now composed of both the Business Office and Financial Aid teams, Student Financial Services is located on the first floor of Wildy Hall. We’re proud to provide a variety of student services including but not limited to: l l l l l l l
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In-person, online and over-the-phone student account payment assistance Student account advising Financial aid advising Assistance with payment plans FAFSA Financial literacy Enrollment in BankMobile
McKendree University Welcomes the Class of 2025 In Person
McKendree Endows Two Faculty Members with Prestigious Awards
In the humid afternoon on Wednesday, Aug. 18, McKendree University welcomed the Class of 2025 to campus during Convocation, as 375 first-year students and 96 transfer students arrived on campus throughout the week.
During Convocation Dr. Tami Eggleston had a surprise up her sleeve as she presented Dr. Lauren Thompson, newly-promoted assistant professor of history, and Dr. Brenda Boudreau, professor of English, with endowed professorships.
Continuing a trend from recent years, an increasing number of new Bearcats hailed from out of state. While 57 percent of the Class of 2025 came from throughout Illinois, others represented 28 additional states, as well as 23 other countries. International students arrived from many far-flung lands, including Austria, Brazil, Canada, Croatia, England, Germany, Iceland, India, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Northern Ireland, Norway, Peru, Poland, Scotland, Serbia, South Africa, Sweden, Thailand, and Trinidad and Tobago.
“There are many things that make McKendree University such a special place, but the main reason is simple – it is the people and the connections that you can make here,” Tami said. “We celebrate a few of our amazing faculty members with these awards and know that they will hold them with pride for years.”
At the traditional opening convocation on the beautiful front lawn of campus, President Daniel Dobbins ’81 told the students, “Convocation is the bookend of your academic journey at the start, with your commencement and graduation as the end of your McKendree student experience, which then marks the beginning of your McKendree alumni experience. You come to McKendree with a family already, the one you’ve known throughout your lives, and today you formally join a new family – the McKendree family – the family I’m proud to belong to and lead as its president. You are indeed an important member of this family, the family we call One McKendree. Dream big, work hard, be humble – good things will happen.” Also appearing to greet the incoming class and offer advice to the new students were junior Emmanuel Segbedzi, Student Government Association representative; Ryan Furniss ’00, Alumni Association president; and Dr. Ann Collins, professor of political science and winner of the 2021 William Norman Grandy faculty award. Emmanuel encouraged students to bloom wherever they’re planted and live the One McKendree mission while Ryan charged the first-years to challenge themselves, get involved and develop grit to set themselves up for success. Meanwhile, Ann stressed the importance of friendship to the incoming students. “Feed your souls with friends, and tap into the strength that got you this far,” she said. “Obviously, we see something in you – what do you see in yourself?” As students signed their names to the Matricula, the hushed crowd of parents, friends, faculty, staff and fellow peers looked on with quiet pride, with only the steady chiming of Bothwell Chapel’s bell and the cadence of the summer cicadas cutting through the reverent silence. Convocation ended on a high note as students, faculty and staff sang the McKendree Fight Song with the help of junior music education majors Bradley Eston and Elizabeth Coady, the McKendree spirit band, football team, volleyball team and Bogey the Bearcat.
Lauren was awarded the Hedding Deneen and Charles Samuel Deneen Memorial Professorship of Early American History. She teaches and conducts research on early American history with a focus on African American history, slavery and the Civil War. She recently published a book titled “Friendly Enemies: Soldier Fraternization throughout the American Civil War” and has authored other history-based pieces. Thompson serves on the University’s Social Justice and Equity Committee and was the recipient of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award in 2019. Brenda was awarded the James M. Hammill Chair of English award, based on the approval from the Board of Trustees. Brenda has been a full-time faculty member at the University since 1998 and is the longest serving member of the English department. She teaches courses in English literature and composition and her scholarly expertise is in media communications with a focus on pop culture and women’s issues. The University has honored her with the Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award in 2010, The United Methodist Exemplary Teaching Award in 2008 and the William Norman Grandy Faculty Award in 2003.
Tickets available for our
2021- 2022 Season (618) 537-6863
theHett.com
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Bass Fishing
Golf
Soccer
The bass fishing team placed five boats in the Top 12 at the Major League Fishing (MLF) Central Conference Qualifier on the Lake of the Ozarks in October, earning berths into the MLF National Championship to be held at Fort Gibson, Okla., in March. Senior Bailey Bleser and graduate student Nate Doty caught five bass weighing in at 14 pounds 4 ounces to take first place. Junior Nick Holtgrave and firstyear Jaxson Freeman finished in fourth place; seniors Tyler Christy and Trey Schroeder finished in fifth place; sophomore Colton Head and junior Trey Budach finished in eighth place; and first-years Lane Stephens and Kyle Hopping finished in 12th place.
First-year women’s golfer Imogen Rafferty won three tournaments this fall, including the USI Screaming Eagles Invitational at Cambridge Golf Course on Sept. 13, Lady Panther Fall Invitational at Silo Ridge Golf Club on Sept. 21 and Flyer Intercollegiate at Cog Hill Golf Club on Oct. 5.
The men’s soccer team reached the quarterfinals in the GLVC Championship Tournament. Senior forward James Stone and senior midfielder Eddie Davis were named to the All-GLVC first team and junior defender Cole Gerstenberger was named to the All-GLVC third team. James was also named to the United Soccer Coaches Midwest Region second team.
Football Three Bearcats earned All-Great Lake Valley Conference (GLVC) first-team accolades this season, including redshirt sophomore receiver Jacob Bachman, senior center Jake Stevenson and sophomore defensive lineman Sidney Houston. The Bearcats’ lone second-team All-GLVC selection was redshirt junior receiver Steven Towns, Jr. Twelve players earned honorable mentions All-GLVC accolades.
The men’s golf team closed out the fall season with three straight tournament titles. First-year Fabian Wennerlof led the field at the Bearcat Dual Gender Tournament at Far Oaks Golf Club on Oct. 19 and the Kentucky Wesleyan Fall Invitational at The Pearl Club on Oct. 31. Junior Phasin Vichitcharoenpaisarn won medalist honors at both the Flyer Intercollegiate at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club on Oct. 5 and the Midwest Regional at Fox Run Golf Club on Oct. 12.
Tennis The men’s tennis team finished out the fall season with two individual titles. In September, graduate student Boriss Kamdem won the men’s singles title at the ITA Fall Circuit at Dwight Davis Tennis Center and junior Ryan Fung captured the men’s “C” draw singles title at the ITA Midwest Regional Championships at Grand Valley State University.
Water Polo The men’s varsity water polo team finished second at the 2021 Mid-Atlantic Water Polo Conference-West (MAWPC) Regional Championships and third at the 2021 Collegiate Water Polo Association Division I Championships. Five Bearcats were selected to the MAWPC-West Region All-Conference Team. Graduate student utility player Michael Rojas was named to the first team, while fifth-year senior goalie Ori Scanlon, senior utility player Matthew Haygood, graduate student Uros Pelemis and senior attacker Nico Rodriguez received second team nods. The men’s club team recorded a program-best sixth place finish at the 2021 Men’s National Collegiate Club Water Polo Championships.
Staff/Coach News
Head women’s bowling coach and eight-time World Champion Shannon O’Keefe rode in the Go Bowling float in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Two members of the Bearcat women’s wrestling team were recently featured on the Family Feud. Senior Joye Levendusky and her sister, first-year Esther, competed in two episodes of the show in May, along with their sister Grace, father Derek and mother Heidi.
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Longtime collegiate women’s basketball coach Paula Buscher was named as the school’s interim assistant athletic director and senior woman administrator. Paula comes to McKendree after spending the past 35 years coaching women’s basketball at both the NCAA Division I and II levels and most recently spent nine years as the head women’s basketball coach at SIUE. Other new athletic hires include Ben Greenberg, sports information director; Patrick Knapinski, assistant sports information director; Brad Bechel, head powerlifting coach; Barry Ford, head men’s and women’s track and field coach; Alec Nichols ’00, Division II head men’s hockey coach; Heather Tarter, head softball coach; and Cameron Wyper, head men’s and women’s rugby coach.
Women’s Hockey Team Partners with Team IMPACT The women’s hockey team held a special signing ceremony for Raeanne Toennies, who is disabled and in a wheelchair. She has been a part of the Bearcat women’s hockey program the past three years through a program called Team IMPACT. At the signing ceremony, Raeanne and her mother signed her letter of intent to compete in hockey for McKendree. She received an official team jersey and was presented with her own locker in the locker room. Raeanne participates in weekly Zoom calls with the team and attends games and practices when she can and offers support to our players and coaches.
Women’s Soccer Spotlight With a 12-2-2 regular season record, the women’s soccer team earned a fourth-straight GLVC regular season title. The No. 4 seeded Bearcats got an at-large bid to their fifth-straight NCAA Midwest Regional Tournament, before losing in the opening round to conference foe University of Indianapolis. As a team this season, the Bearcats had 1.72 goals per match and outscored their opponents 31-15. The defense only allowed 7.3 shots per game and less than 50 percent of opposing shots to be on-goal. Three Bearcats earned All-GLVC First Team honors, including senior midfielder Emma Knoebel of Maryville, Ill., junior defender Morgan Bova of Troy, Mo. and sophomore forward/midfielder Anna Stiffler of O’Fallon, Mo. Coming off a standout season in the spring, where she garnered GLVC Co-Freshman of the Year honors, Anna earned GLVC Player of the Week nods twice this fall. Anna and Emma also earned United Soccer Coaches Midwest Region second team honors. After playing two seasons in the same calendar year (the 2020 season was played from February 2021 through April 2021, after being rescheduled due to COVID), 24 players returned for the fall season. “This year has been unbelievable, just great for this program,” said 2020-21 GLVC Coach of the year and Head Coach Tim Strange. “These players deserve a ton of credit playing through the spring and turning around to do it right away again this fall. They achieved so much on top of just playing the games.”
Team IMPACT has a mission to improve the quality of life for children facing serious and chronic illnesses through the power of teams, forming life-long bonds and life-changing outcomes. Throughout this journey, the child gains strength, camaraderie, and support while the student-athletes experience lessons of courage, resiliency and perspective they can’t learn in a classroom.
Beach Volleyball Coming to McKendree One of the fastest-growing NCAA sports - women’s beach volleyball will be the newest intercollegiate sport at McKendree beginning in the 2022-23 academic year.
FAN // ZONE Tune in to listen to live audio play-by-play on the GLVC Sports network at www.glvcsn.com/mckendree/. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. Check out McKBearcats.com for upcoming schedules, team news, and to purchase tickets. Visit shopmckendree.com to buy official athletics gear!
“This is an exciting time for McKendree Athletics as the emergence of beach volleyball at the collegiate level continues to grow at a rapid rate and we’re excited to be able to add the sport to our intercollegiate athletics program here at McKendree and also to the metro east area,” said Director of Athletics Anthony Francis. “I’m very confident that our new beach volleyball program will be a fit here at McKendree and will be able to succeed in conjunction with our current women’s indoor volleyball program.” With the addition of beach volleyball, McKendree will now sponsor a total of 25 NCAA athletic programs, including 13 NCAA women’s sports and 37 intercollegiate athletic teams overall.
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715 $135,17o 122 $43,000
Total gifts Received Total Dollars raised
Donations to bearcat pantry from 23 individuals challenge gifts received
We did it, Bearcats! Thank you to all who gave back and helped to make #GivingTuesday 2021 a huge success for McKendree University. The University participated in its 7th annual #GivingTuesday on November 30 and it was the largest #GivingTuesday in dollars raised to date. The collective contributions from this incredible community of alumni, faculty, staff, students, family and friends will create countless opportunities for our students and impact the future of this great institution.
Holman Library Renovation Learning & Conference Center 552 Challenge $25,000 to the Annual Fund
Michael Gauble’s 40 Years of Service Challenge $15,000 to the Annual Fund Dr. Rennegarbe’s 44 Challenge $1,000 to the Division of Nursing
Holly Sallee ’13, MBA ’18
Renovation Studies| Occupancy Study Alumni Board Finish Strong Challenge $1,500 to the Annual Fund
President Dobbins’ Alumni Challenge $1,000 Division of Nursing - 28 alumni gifts
Director of Annual Giving and Advancement Systems
Didn’t get a chance to make your gift? You can still support McKendree before the end of the fiscal year on June 30. Visit: giving.mckendree.edu or call 618.537.6824.
Holman Library is Turning a New Page with Exciting Renovations Ever since its completion in 1969, Holman Library has been the home of the University’s countless books, several computers and quiet corners in which students tuck themselves away to study. Now, the library is getting some much-needed renovations to make it an even more student-friendly study space. Upper Level Floor Plan Total Occupancy 178 people Renovations will be taking place on the south side of the second floor beginning in January 2022. As you head upstairs and peer to your right, you will see not stacks of books but a space filled with eye-catching, modular furnishings and the latest technology, including drop-down microphones, enhanced video and sound technology and large screens with projectors. This space, which will seat up to 75 people, will be a meeting room in which presentations are given, Board of Trustees’ meetings or Brown Bags are hosted and collaboration is fostered.
Holman Library Renovation – Phase 1 Concept Drawing (Upper Level)
New Learning & Conference Center
Debbie (Miller) Houk ’91, director of Holman Library, is also eagerly anticipating the changes to the building and what it means for the library’s future. “The renovation will allow us to better serve the student population – we can have more collaborative spaces, areas for studying and allow for better use of technology,” she said. “The library is a great place for resources and to receive assistance with assignments or projects. I believe the renovation will increase the visibility of the library and be a place for more students to collaborate and study.”
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From the Alumni Board President
From the Alumni Director
Hello, Alumni and Friends,
Dear Alumni,
Now that we have entered into this new year, it is time to reunite with McKendree family, friends and alumni.
I hope that all of you are healthy and staying safe as we have entered this new year. As the newly-appointed Director of Alumni Relations, I want to highlight a few events that the Office of Alumni Relations has successfully sponsored this academic year and update you on future events that might be of interest to you.
I was very pleased to see so many alumni during Homecoming Weekend. It was great to see the campus alive again. The pandemic caused all of us to pause and put our health and safety of others at the forefront, which also led us to limit our alumni engagement activities. Now that the world has begun to open up to a new “normal,” I encourage you to reengage and become more involved in the Alumni Association. This spring will bring several engagement opportunities for you to attend. The Alumni Association will be sponsoring several events over the upcoming semester. Join us in Florida for the Cardinals Spring Training from March 25 to March 27. We will also spend an afternoon at the Fabulous Fox Theater for a showing of Hamilton. Don’t forget about Commencement! It will be held on Friday, May 13. There are also several opportunities throughout the year for you to volunteer at McKendree events. You can join the Alumni Association Board and be involved in the planning of various events. Aside from serving on the Board, you can also give back to McKendree by donating gently-used clothing to Bogey‘s Career Closet and signing up to be a potential mentor in the newly established Career Connector Program that the Alumni Board, Personal and Professional Development Committee has created. I look forward to seeing you and working with you over the upcoming months. Let’s continue to reunite and become One McKendree.
Ryan Furniss ’00
Alumni Association President
The 2021 Homecoming Weekend was an overwhelming success, and we were gratified to see the number of alumni and their guests attend the on-campus events. The actionpacked weekend hosted several events such as the Golden Anniversary Reunion, Homecoming Parade, Bearcat Tailgate and the annual Alumni Awards, to name a few. Our office was inspired, as well as grateful, to see so many alumni “reunited” once again. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all of us in deeply personal ways; however, the Alumni office continues its mission to connect, engage and involve our alumni in activities that will strengthen their bond with McKendree University. We have resumed our Purple Friday engagement program. I visited a number of employers that employ many McKendree alumni. It has been a great opportunity to connect with various alumni in different career fields to bring them McKendree swag and other goodies. In this new year, the Office of Alumni Relations will continue to bring new and exciting alumni events, including Hamilton at the Fabulous Fox Theater, Spring Training with the Cardinals in Jupiter, Florida and a host of other events. Please be sure to follow McKendree Alumni on social media, the McKendree University website and the Bearcat Buzz for more detailed information. I look forward to seeing you on campus very soon. Thank you,
Brandi Brown-Harris, M.A. ’10
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Alumni 1954 H. Donald Winkler was honored by Marquis Who’s Who in its recently released book “A Lifetime of Achievement, Our Collection of Prestigious Listees,” for he was recognized for his “lifetime achievements and unwavering excellence” in book authorship and university public relations over the past 50 years.
Dr. Steve Webb was named the 2022 Illinois Superintendent of the Year by the Illinois Association of School Administrators. He was also honored with the 2021 Nick Derzis Safe School Leadership Award by the National Association of School Resource Officers.
Glen Kinder was promoted to branch chief at the U.S. Forest Service in Eddyville, Ky. Danita Smith was named the 2021 National Black Nurses Association’s Nurse Entrepreneur of the Year. She is the founder and owner of My Blooming Health Mobile, LLC.
2004 Jarrett Ford was promoted to deputy police chief in Alton, Ill.
1960
Susan Harbaugh is mayor of Red Bud, Ill.
2005
Harry Statham was recently named to the Small College Basketball National Hall of Fame Class of 2022 and the American Midwest Conference Hall of Fame. He was the head basketball coach at McKendree from 1966-2018.
Megan (Weiler) Connelly is director of development at the St. Louis Society for the Blind and Visually Impaired in St. Louis, Mo.
2007
1965 Tom Pile was recently named to the Edwardsville High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He was the head baseball coach at EHS from 1981-98.
1986 Carolyn (Yorko) Beal was named Faculty Member of the Year at Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville, Ill. She is the early childhood education program coordinator.
1987 Dr. Jeff Dosier is the chief financial officer for East St. Louis School District 189.
Lindsay (Weathers) Fark, M.A.Ed. ’11 is principal at Freeburg Primary Center in Freeburg, Ill. He is the superintendent at Goreville Community Unit School District, school resource officer, and founder of Safe Secure/ School Systems. In July, he was elected to a three-year term on the executive committee of AASA, The School Superintendents Association.
1997
Julie (Muskopf) Dengler retired in 2021 after 34 years of teaching from Lebanon Elementary School in Lebanon, Ill.
Kerri (Zeisset) Thaler, M.A.Ed. ’11 was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a special education teacher at Central School District in O’Fallon, Ill.
1991
Kelli (Jackson) Barbour is principal at Triad High School in Troy, Ill.
1992 Christie Cange finished a six-year journey in August to run 100 half marathons in all 50 states and D.C.
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2002
2000 Jen (Franz) Stratton now serves as chair of the Continuing Advisory Committee for Special Education for the State of Texas, appointed by Governor Greg Abbott. She is the director of communications at Family Hospital Systems in Cedar Park, Texas.
Rachael (Ostertag) Wilcox received the 2020 Missouri NEA Horace Mann Friend of Education Award and was a 2020 Missouri Teacher of the Year finalist. She was recently hired as the director of social emotional learning at the Washington School District in Washington, Mo.
2008 Sarah (Haas) Ayran is the theology teacher for 5-8th grade at St. John Neumann Catholic School in Maryville, Ill. Tami Hudson, M.A.Ed. retired in 2021 after 26 years of teaching from O’Fallon Township High School in O’Fallon, Ill. Jayme (Blandford) Novara co-authored the book, An Introduction to World Mythology. It is in its second edition and sold on Amazon. Tina (Napper) Tebbe is director of communications at McKendree. Daniel Toberman is principal at Collinsville High School in Collinsville, Ill. Brandon Woodrome, M.A.Ed. is the 2021 Illinois Principal Association’s “Principal of the Year” for the Southwest Illinois Region. He is the principal at Mascoutah High School in Mascoutah, Ill.
2009 Jeremy Alexander received the 2021 Great Lakes Association of College & University Housing Officers Service Award. He is the associate director for administration in University Housing at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Ill. Jill Dalke, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a teacher at Freeburg High School in Freeburg, Ill. Cale Johnson won an MLB World Series championship ring as an assistant pitching coordinator for the Atlanta Braves. Dr. Stephen Kissel released his first published book by the University of Illinois Press, America’s Religious Crossroads: Faith and Community in the Emerging Midwest. He is an assistant professor of history at Oakland City University. Jamie (Smith) Storey is executive director of the Greater Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce in Mt. Vernon, Ill.
2010 Lanece Clarke received her 2020 Sports Hall of Fame Award on Oct. 23, 2021. She was a member of the 2017 Bahamian national track and field team at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Jennifer (Krause) Wegener, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a special education teacher at Millstadt Primary Center in Millstadt, Ill. Megan (McQuiston) Zinck was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a third grade teacher at Wingate Elementary School in Mascoutah, Ill.
Michelle (Voegele) Powell is director of admissions at Florida Polytechnic University [100% STEM state university] in Lakeland, Fla. Ryan Vincent was promoted to vice president of engineering at Recursive Labs.
2013 Alex Delonis, M.A.Ed. was appointed to serve as a member of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators FAFSA Simplification Working Group. He is the director of financial aid at Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Ind. Kristen Stoltz, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is an eighth grade teacher at High Mount School in Swansea, Ill.
2014 Emmy (Kelly) Koonce graduated with her master of social work degree, specializing in family practice and school social work, from the University of Missouri St. Louis. She works at LaVerna Evans Elementary School in O’Fallon, Ill. Monica (Weilbacher) Mize, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a librarian at Eagleview Elementary School in Columbia, Ill.
Jessica Stein, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is an early childhood teacher at Grant Elementary School in Fairview Heights, Ill.
John Parciak, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. He is a second grade teacher at Kreitner Elementary School in Collinsville, Ill.
Lana Kunz, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a kindergarten teacher at Belle Valley Elementary School in Belleville, Ill.
Tyler Wallin made a special visit to campus on Sept. 20 to speak to students about his role as a fish biologist and employee ambassador with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Amy F. Heath, M.A.Ed. was named a 2021 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award winner. She is a chemistry teacher at Granite City High School in Granite City, Ill.
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AJ Johnson and Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Owens partnered to win the Chris Paul 2021 CP3 PBA Celebrity Invitational on Oct. 17 in Gilbert, Ariz. In addition, AJ won a gold medal in trios at the 2021 International Bowling Federation World Championships in Dubai, United Arab Emirates from Nov. 6-15.
Austin Vuichard is a portfolio manager at Buckingham Strategic Wealth in Clayton, Mo.
2015 Britani Beasley is the area leader of marketing at Raising Cane’s in St. Louis, Mo.
2016 Dr. Lexi Nash graduated from the SIU School of Dental Medicine in June 2021. She is a pediatric dental resident at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Lindsay Winkeler, M.A.Ed. ’18 is a student success mentor at McKendree.
2017 Jenna Davis graduated with her doctor of physical therapy degree from Southwestern Baptist University. She is a physical therapist at ApexNetwork Physical Therapy in Granite City, Ill. Julie Laakko-Swanson is the education reporter with the Edwardsville Intelligencer.
2018 Shaquille Armstrong is the founder at No Father Left Behind Inc. in Belleville, Ill. and a resident director at McKendree. Teri Cocke was selected as a 2021 NextGEN Under 30 Leadership Award winner in the science category for the State of Oklahoma. She is a Ph.D. student in integrative biology at Oklahoma State University. Emily Thompson graduated with her doctor of occupational therapy degree from Midwestern University. She is director of rehabilitation at ONR, Inc.
2019 Amanda Williams graduated from Barnes Jewish College-Goldfarb School of Nursing in St. Louis, Mo. She is an oncology ICU nurse at Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Mo.
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2020
it’s friday... get your purple on!
Wyatt Dimke is a middle blocker for the USC Braunschweig volleyball team in Braunschweig, Germany. Jake Freeman is a police officer in Greenville, Ill. Michelle Huber, MBA was promoted to vice president of finance at KAI Enterprises in St. Louis, Mo.
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Anders CPAs + Advisors hosted a Purple Pride visit on Oct. 7. Pictured from l. to. r.: Alissa Fuhrmann, director of major and planned giving; Kailey Anderson ’20; Justin Sweeney ’19; Cole Foster ’19; Jordan Reichert ’20, MBA ’21; Lindsay (Lott) Suelmann ’05; Adam Prest ’05; Rob Berger ’01; Gretchen (Ulferts) Best ’09; Jenna (Morris) Cassity ’15 and Brandi Brown-Harris M.A. ’10, director of alumni relations. KEB hosted a Purple Pride visit on Nov. 5. Pictured from l. to. r.: Brandi Brown-Harris M.A. ’10; Deidra (Thomas) Doerr ’07; Gina (Rickhoff) Reeves ’99; Maleah (Grothaus) Russell ’16; Thorsten Przychocki ’19 and Patricia “Trish” Donovan ’14.
Laurynn Davey is a search engine optimization specialist at JLB Business Website Solutions in Nashville, Tenn. John Giffin, Ed.S. is the 2021 Illinois Principal Association’s “Principal of the Year” for the Shawnee Region. He is the principal at Vienna High School in Vienna, Ill. Ryan Reader is a police officer in Litchfield, Ill. Paris Star Suzuki (below) is a direct sales representative for the St. Louis Cardinals, working with ticketing, marketing and game day operations/events.
Alumni and Development staff members paid a Purple Pride visit to Belle Valley School District 119 in Belleville, Ill., on Oct. 1. Pictured from l. to r.: Brandi Brown-Harris M.A. ’10; Lori (Junker) Zeiter ’86, M.A.Ed. ’11; Sarah (Mernick) Williams ’02 and Lana Kunz ’11.
From l. to. r., back row: Brandon Musso ’02, M.A.Ed. ’12; Sonia Arnold ’03, M.A.Ed. ’06; Marla (Schulte) Fisher ’16, M.A.T. ’20; Rebecca Brombolich; Amber Kohnz M.A.Ed. ’13; Jennifer (Zurliene) Flanagan ’03, M.A.Ed. ’21; graduate student Olivia Ford and Keri (Dix) Voelker ’06, M.A.Ed. ’13. Front row: Brandi Brown-Harris M.A. ’10; Kim Howard ’20; Christine Kaiping M.A.Ed. ’14; China Rongey ’17 and Carly Maul ’17.
Many alumni employed at Collinsville High School in Collinsville, Ill., sported their Bearcat pride on #PurpleFriday, Sept. 24, 2021. Pictured from l. to. r., back row: James White M.A.Ed. ’08; Kyle Gordon ’98, M.A.Ed. ’08; Brett White M.A.Ed. ’09; Mike Nichols ’08; Clayton Smith ’00, M.A.Ed. ’10; Branden Henson ’17; Daniel Toberman M.A.Ed. ’08; Julie (Brown) Hazzard M.A.Ed. ’14; Mark Terveer ’89 and Lisa (LaFrank) Bossetto M.A.Ed. ’08. Front row: Brandi Brown-Harris M.A.’10; Melissa (Schneebeli) Biebel ’11; BethAnn (Swartz) Schneider ’13; Kristin Westphal M.A.Ed. ’09; Janet Munzert M.A.Ed. ’21; Lauren Iler ’12 and Suzzane (Phillips) Hamilton ’72.
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Carl Draper ’60
Nothing speaks more highly of a university than alumni, friends and patrons who enthusiastically serve and support it. McKendree University and its Alumni Association offer a variety of ways to reconnect, serve and give back. One dedicated McKendrean, Carl Draper ’60, made an eternal commitment to McKendree that will impact the lives of students for generations to come. Born in 1937, Carl graduated from East Alton-Wood River High School and furthered his studies at McKendree where he earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics. He went on to a successful career in St. Louis at the National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA), now known as the National GeospatialIntelligence Agency, where he was a geodesist. After his graduation, McKendree remained Carl’s home away from home. He joined the Alumni Board and then went on to serve on the McKendree University Board of Trustees for 22 years. Carl was an active member of the McKendree community as a volunteer at senior celebration events, chapel services and as a member of the Sports Hall of Fame Committee. He received the Loyal Service Award in 1992 and the prestigious Peter Akers Award in 2003 for exemplary service and support.
Carl was a Bearcat Basketball season ticket holder and a proud member of the McKendree Bearcat Booster Club. When Carl passed away unexpectedly in January 2020, the seat he had filled for many years in Statham Gym was covered in black as a memorial to this dedicated McKendrean. While Carl had informed the Office of Development, Alumni and Parent Relations that McKendree was included in his estate, it wasn’t until after his passing that the University learned the details of his planned gift. The generous bequest was left undesignated because Carl wanted the University Board of Trustees to determine the best use of these funds. In May 2021, the McKendree University Board of Trustees established the Carl Draper Athletic Endowment Fund to support the McKendree University Department of Athletics in perpetuity and the Carl E. Draper Scholarship Fund to support students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mathematics or science. Structuring the gifts as part of the University’s permanent endowment will generate annual earnings that will continue Carl’s legacy of consistent, generous support at McKendree University.
One of Carl’s favorite activities to do on campus was cheer on the Bearcat student-athletes, especially the men’s basketball team.
As a final tribute to Carl, the Board of Trustees named the Hall of Fame Room located in the Melvin Price Convocation Center the “Carl Draper ‘60 Hall of Fame Room” in honor of Carl’s many years of service to McKendree University and in recognition of his generous estate gift. Now, the quiet, unassuming alumnus will be known by all who visit the home of Bearcat Basketball.
First-year Essie Meeker is continuing a legacy of McKendree Bearcats. Pictured from l. to r., with her grandfather Fred Robinson ’68, mother Dr. Melissa (Robinson) Meeker ’93, M.A.Ed. ’06, and father Tim Meeker ’94, MBA ’14. Her grandmother, the late Bonnie (Baer) Robinson ’79, along with several cousins, also attended McKendree.
Lauren Pate ’19 (pictured above) and Breanna Clemmer ’21 competed in the 2021 PANAM Bowling Elite Championships in Cali, Colombia on Oct. 14-23, 2021. They both won a gold medal in doubles play, a bronze medal in trios play, and the overall women’s team gold medal.
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Several McKendree alumni participated in a Purple Friday faculty/staff homecoming edition on Oct. 22. Pictured from l. to. r., Back Row: Karyn Wilson ’19; Lisa Wolf ’04; Dr. Melissa (Robinson) Meeker ’93, M.A.Ed. ’06; Jessica Hopkins, MBA ’20; Lindsay Winkeler ’16, M.A.Ed. ’18; Tina (Napper) Tebbe ’08; Matt Seniour, M.A.Ed. ’22; Dr. Jennifer (Lerch) Miller ’04, M.A.Ed. ’07; and Beth Allan ’01. Front Row: Holly (Weathers) Sallee ’13, MBA ’18; Julia (Surdyke) Hunt ’16; Debbie (Miller) Houk ’91; Jennifer Funk, M.A.Ed. ’14; Lori Kuper ’20; Dr. Mary McKee ’14, M.A.Ed. ’17; Whitney (Pankey) Strang ’05; Jennifer (Harris) Pickerell ’99; Dr. Sara (Trask) Frank ’05; Brandi Brown-Harris, M.A. ’10; Scott Billhartz ’85; Liz Crabtree, MBA ’20 and President Daniel C. Dobbins ’81.
In Memoriam
Deceased alumni and friends through Dec. 22, 2021.
Dr. Sameer Dutta, associate professor of computing, passed away on Oct. 29, 2021. Sameer joined the computing faculty in 2014. He earned his Ph.D. in Management Information Systems, MBA in Management Information Systems, and M.S. in Finance from Drexel University. He also earned his B.Commerce from Delhi University.
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Michael L. Steinmann ’92, 1/9/21 Carolyn A. (Kalmer) Klemp ’84, 2/3/21 Kathryn R. Albert ’80, 2/7/21 Todd M. McNamara ’86, 2/7/21 Tekoa Sue (Miskell) Pullen ’04, 3/29/21 Paul Juvinall ’64, 4/10/21 Lee Ann Pass ’74, 5/2/21 Alice (Hale) Tylman ’67, 5/16/21 Wilma (Finckbone) Gott ’87, 5/17/21 Rev. Marvin Bennett ’92, 5/19/21 Ruth A. (Boggs) Matthews ’57, 5/22/21 Mary Ann Groom ’89, 5/25/21 Rev. Robert D. Mushrush ’56, 5/26/21 Lucille J. Sudol, 5/31/21 Myra (Augustine) Wilke ’73, 5/31/21 Margaret L. Karraker ’70, 6/1/21 Kyle B. Kleeman ’17, 6/13/21 Jane (Pownall) Markarian ’52, 6/15/21 Allen W. Gaebe ’60, 6/18/21 E. Marlene Campbell, 7/5/21 David C. O’Neal ’59, 7/10/21 Donald J. Parker ’85, 7/10/21 Beryl J. Shoemaker ’94, 7/12/21 Lt. Col. James F. Rafferty, USAF, Ret., 7/13/21 Mary (Neville) Kubiak ’77, 7/22/21 Barry W. Vanderhyden ’03, 7/23/21 James D. Gisondi ’74, 7/30/21 Raymond D. Woods ’63, 8/7/21 R. William “Bill” Jones ’72, 8/10/21 Robert W. Yates ’93, 8/11/21 Michael T. Worley ’80, 8/13/21 RAdmU W. Ivan Lewis Jr. ’52, 8/28/21 Sherry L. Whiting ’01, 8/28/21 Robert V. Nave ’84, 8/29/21 John C. Murphy ’78, 9/9/21
Ruby (Seibert) Widicus ’53, 9/9/21 Dr. Philip E. Kahlert, 9/13/21 Nancy A. (Atkinson) Schulz ’79, 9/16/21 David P. Sims, 9/17/21 Linda J. Hunt-Smith ’92, 9/21/21 Ida Lee Mitchell ’61, 9/21/21 Zach Schneider, 9/25/21 Darryl G. Mayhew, 9/27/21 Earlene Voigt, 10/9/21 Col. James F. Argabright ’77, 10/12/21 Pauline Holt ’64, 10/13/21 Charles N. Seng ’51, 10/19/21 Donna M. Broaddus ’89, 10/20/21 Rev. L. Eugene McCormack ’51, 10/21/21 Debbie Jo Anderson ’73, 10/23/21 Dr. Robert E. Yarber ’51, 10/28/21 Evelyn L. Carlock ’75, 10/29/21 Barbara Friederich ’92, 11/4/21 Chap. James C. Corbitt ’55, 11/7/21 Victoria L. (Ottwein) Fischer ’68, 11/7/21 Shirley A. Thomas ’69, 11/11/21 Peggy J. (Moore) Guthrie ’02, 11/13/21 Lori A. (Wright) Love ’89, 11/15/21 Jeanette L. Hook ’93, 11/16/21 Laura (Easley) Royston ’74, 12/1/21 Loretta Odle ’64, 12/7/21 Lester E. Garver, Jr. ’53, 12/8/21 Joan M. Nichols ’96, 12/9/21 Melanie A. (Ahrens) Harris ’86, 12/10/21 Austin J. McEwen ’15, 12/10/21 Roger Jones ’76, 12/17/21 Robin Carpenter ’84, 12/19/21 Charlotte (Plegge) Heeren ’80, 12/20/21 Mary Frances Daylor, 12/22/21
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A. Kayla (Frank) Baumgartner ’05, husband Bradley, and big sisters Myla and Brynn welcomed son Nash James on April 29, 2021.
E. Melissa (Bayer) Stewart ’12, M.A.Ed. ’16, husband Evan ’16, and big brother Elijah welcomed daughters Ellowen “Elle” Ann and Emmelyn “Emme” Sue on July 29, 2021.
B. Krista (Waltermire) Basuel ’07, husband Joseph, and big sister Gabriella welcomed daughter Cecilia on Aug. 26, 2021.
F. Lauren (Putbrese) Carro ’15, and husband Moises, welcomed daughter Rosalee Elizabeth on June 18, 2021.
C. Melissa (Funk) Murar ’11, husband John, and big brother Grayson welcomed daughter Ellie Rose on Jan. 21, 2021.
G. Megan (Doty) Delong ’15, and husband Blake ’14, welcomed daughter Lylah Marie on Dec. 18, 2021.
K. Hannah (Schneider) Cooper ’17, MAT ’20, and husband Conner ’16, welcomed daughter Cameron Lynn on April 17, 2021.
D. Stephanie (Harris) Potthast ’12, husband Calvin, and big brother Blaine welcomed daughter Brenlee Marie on Dec. 17, 2020.
H. Joseph Gebke ’16, and wife Maryl, welcomed son Conan Bachisio on June 3, 2021.
L. Sarah (Ryan) Wood ’10, husband Tyler, and big brother Lincoln welcomed twins Nolan and Layla on Oct. 6, 2021.
I. Tegan (Clinton) Jarvis ’16, and husband Steven ’15, welcomed daughter Braelynn Holland on March 21, 2021. J. Erin (Genteman) Volkening ’16, and husband Nick, welcomed son Bennett Davis on July 3, 2018 and daughter Eden Grace on Jan. 28, 2021.
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A. Tara Ryterski ’11, MBA ’13 and Sam Beffa were married on Nov. 28, 2020. B. Brandi Branka ’13 and Andrew Kordelewski ’15 were married on July 17, 2021. C. Tyler Campbell ’13 and Emily Phipps ’14 were married on Oct. 24, 2021. Alumni in the wedding party included: Autumn Twardowski ’15, Robert Campbell ’08, Brandon Hoeflein ’13 and Lance Allen ’13. D. Stephanie Scibona ’13 and Ryan Freivogel were married on June 19, 2021. E
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Bridgette Edwards ’14 and Bill Rymer were married on July 17, 2021. Alumni in the wedding party included: Haleigh Albers ’13, Holly (Weathers) Sallee ’13, MBA ’18 and Shannon (Fuehne) Sanders ’13.
F. Jacob Kline ’15 and Mollie Borowiak ’17, M.A.Ed. ’20 were married on Oct. 2, 2021. G. Hannah Wessel ’16 and Micah Sasser were married on May 1, 2021. H. Kerri Yanousek ’16 and William “Billy” Lamb ’17 were married on May 28, 2021. I.
Jordan Barker ’17 and Scott Crim ’17 were married on June 13, 2021. Alumni in the wedding party included: Magoline Middleton ’15, Mariah Logan ’16, Elizabeth Bruchhauser ’17, Carliann Huelsmann ’17, Taylor Rossi ’17 and Cheyenne Stock ’18.
J. Julie Laakko ’17 and Nicholas Swanson were married on April 3, 2021. K. Sammie Lenz ’17, M.A. ’18 and Matt Henning ’18 were married on July 24, 2021. L. Paige Whipple ’17 and Adam Jackson were married on July 10, 2021. M. Brittni Snyder ’18 and Cameron Borri were married on June 18, 2021. N. Megan Marks ’20 and Luke Kraemer were married on June 13, 2020.
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SAVE THE DATE! Annual Bearcat Golf Tournament to Benefit McKendree University Department of Athletics Friday, June 17, 2022 // 9:00 a.m. Shotgun Start St. Clair Country Club, Belleville, IL
Over $600,000 raised in support of 900 student-athletes and the 37 men’s and women’s McKendree Bearcat athletic programs!
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Nominations for the 2022 Alumni Awards ends April 15, 2022. The Alumni Association is looking for leaders—graduates of McKendree University who have shown strong leadership in their careers, outstanding service to the community, and success in athletics or other notable accomplishments. For more information or specific awards criteria, check out the Alumni Association webpage.
