roun dUP Northwestern Oklahoma State University Alumni Magazine
2014-2015
From student to business owner, Sal Alvarado defines “entrepreneur”, p.18
The passion of a nursing career continues, p.8
Dr. Mike Knedler: Once a Ranger, Always a Ranger, p.23
Ranger Rodeo – Through the Eyes of One Alum, p.14
2014-2015
roun dUP
Official Publication Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Alva, OK 73717 Published annually by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Editor: Jennifer Grassano Northwestern Oklahoma State University Dr. Janet Cunningham, President Change of address notices and other correspondence may be sent to: John Allen Director, Alumni Relations Northwestern Student Center 709 Oklahoma Blvd. Alva, OK 73717 580-327-8594 nwalumni@nwosu.edu my.nwfoundation.com For information about making a contribution to Northwestern Oklahoma State University, contact: Allen E. “Skeeter” Bird Chief Executive Officer 709 Oklahoma Blvd. Alva, OK 73717 580-327-8599 aebird@nwosu.edu Alumni Association Board Greg Bowman President Dr. Troy L. Smith Vice President John Allen Secretary/Treasurer Kandee Almgren Recording Secretary
contents 3
Sports Hall of Fame 2014
4
Spring Alumni Reunion 2014: Outstanding Graduates
8
Karlie Parker: Her Journey of Helping Others Continues
14
Ranger Rodeo – Through the Eyes of One Alum
17
The Reichenberger Legacy
18
Sorting Out Life, One Load at a Time
22
Where Are You Now?
23
Dr. Mike Knedler: Once a Ranger, Always a Ranger
24
Lil’ Rangers
“I am Northwestern”.
These three words that create our new brand for the Northwestern Alumni Association may elicit a variety of emotions and memories among our alumni, but over the past year the phrase has definitely represented “family”. Our Ranger family has carried the colors of red and black into the community of Northwestern, and we join in the spirit and pride that comes from the continuing passion we have for our alma mater. Homecoming 2014 – Ranger Games: Catching Fire – brought family and friends together to enjoy the annual parade and football game, in addition to the dedication of the Wayne L. Lane Northwestern Newsroom. Ranger spirit was undeniable at other events, including the Woodward campus “Red Tie Jazz” celebration; the Enid campus Baseball, Hot Dogs and Apple Pie; the
annual Sports Hall of Fame; and Membership Day, held between the men’s and women’s basketball games on Feb. 15. Spring Alumni Reunion 2014 celebrated the accomplishments of five selected “Outstanding Graduates” and honored the classes of 1944, 1954, 1964 and 1989 (see pages 4-5). Memories were shared and friendships were renewed. Ranger spirit? It was everywhere! The opportunities to show your Ranger spirit continue this next year. Homecoming 2015 is scheduled for October 8-10. More activities and events, sponsored by your Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association, will occur throughout the year and can be found at my.nwfoundation.com. And, please mark your calendars for Spring Alumni Reunion 2016, scheduled for April 30. We are in for a great year. Please share it with us.
Greg Bowman President, Northwestern Alumni Association
Ride, Rangers, Ride!
Class Notes
Share your good news! Did you recently get married or welcome a new child? Did you start a new job or get a promotion? Did you receive an award or do a good deed? We want to know about your life as a Northwestern alum! Class Notes will begin in the next issue of roundUP.
Submit your class note at my.nwfoundation.com/class-notes or give us a call at 580-327-8593.
To keep up with the news, events and photos from Northwestern, visit the university’s website at www.nwosu.edu. To find information from the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association, please visit my.nwfoundation.com. Northwestern also can be found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Find the Foundation & Alumni Association Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NWOSUAlumni. roundUP 1
Dear Northwestern Family – Over the past year, each conversation with an alum has unwrapped a remarkable story. I visited with Rangers who are health care professionals, ranchers and farmers, accountants, business owners, police officers, civil servants, authors, artists, and others with varied titles and careers. Life experiences shared have been humorous, serious, inspirational, significant and life-changing. The influence of Northwestern alumni on our society – in northwest Oklahoma and beyond – is immeasurable and impressive. Lives have been saved by our nursing alumni or those who went on to become doctors. Some of our Northwestern farmers and ranchers represent agricultural interests on multiple government levels; all of them continue to feed the world. Our authors and artists who spent their college careers as Rangers touch the very soul of humanity, taking us into different worlds through the written word, music, dance and colors on canvas. Teachers who were prepared at Northwestern for the classroom have inspired and ignited the passions of generations of students. The alumni of Northwestern continue to make a difference…a big difference. The common thread that runs through each of these life journeys is the influence that Northwestern had on those who own the stories. Not one alum failed to remember the name of one or more educator whose impact in the classroom was pivotal in the vocation they chose. Our alumni also quickly recount that their student life experience – from classrooms and labs to athletics, academic and social clubs, Homecoming and close friendships – and the encouragement from the larger Northwestern community helped to shape them into the people they are today. Please enjoy the stories of three of our alumni in this issue of roundUP. They represent the heart and spirit of the Ranger. Ride, Rangers, Ride.
John Allen Director, Alumni Relations
2 roundUP
Ranger SPIRIT
Sports Hall of Fame Saturday, February 1, 2014 Sherina Wood, women’s soccer, and Don Raleigh, track and field, were inducted as the 22nd class of the Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame on Saturday, February 1, 2014. Wood was recognized for her All-American women’s soccer career at Northwestern between 2002-2005. Raleigh, a track and field athlete between 1984-87, was a four-time outdoor and three-time indoor NAIA national qualifier. He won titles in the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Conference all four of his
years at Northwestern. Kellie Mason, senior pitcher on the women’s softball team, was recognized as the recipient of the Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship. Steve Ciolino, head athletic trainer and educator, was awarded the Dr. Yvonne Carmichael Faculty Enhancement Award. After the luncheon, Wood and Raleigh were recognized on center court during the basketball games between Northwestern and Southern Arkansas. Former Sports Hall of Fame inductees who were present also were recognized.
Sherina Wood and Don Raleigh, 2014 inductees.
Steve Ciolino receives the Dr. Yvonne Carmichael Faculty Enhancement Award from Andy Carter, Athletic Director.
Kellie Mason is acknowledged as the recipient of the Sports Hall of Fame Scholarship.
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2014
Spring Alumni Reunion The strength of Ranger spirit pushed back the threat of ominous weather when Northwestern alumni, family and friends arrived on the Alva campus to celebrate Spring Alumni Reunion on April 26, 2014. Campus officials kept a watch on the sky and online storm updates, while the annual event brought opportunities to reminisce and to make new memories. Repeating the tradition of honoring the classes celebrating 70, 60, 50 and 25-year reunions, the graduates of 1954, 1964 and 1989 were recognized during the annual pinning ceremony. Thirty-two honorees were given their commemorative pins. Unfortunately, honorees from the class of 1944 were unable to attend. Honored graduates represented the states of
Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nevada, New York, Oklahoma and Texas. As a testament to the long-standing, highly-respected education program at Northwestern, 63 percent of our honored graduates were retired or current educators. Career fields from the other graduates included nursing, home health, computer programming and analytics, police work, speech pathology, veterinary sciences, human resources, medical technology, social work, school administration and counseling. A consistent sentiment among the graduates was that Northwestern played a critical and positive role in their careers and their lives.
O U T S TA N D I N G
Marvin Wiebener, ’68, Arts category
Chad Moore, ’01, Business Professional category
Wiebener spent a successful career in the social work field, working directly with youth and eventually becoming an administrator. In that role, he delivered leadership and expertise for several social work agencies and programs. In 2002, Wiebener’s life changed when he was diagnosed with primary lateral sclerosis, a disorder of the central nervous system. He and his wife, Peggy, left Tulsa for the country life in Thomas, Okla. With a strong will to continue giving to the world around him, Wiebener refocused his energies on writing two novels in the genres of mystery and espionage.
While working on his accounting degree at Northwestern, Moore followed the advice of a professor and sought an internship with BKD, LLP, a national CPA and advisory firm. The recommendation served Moore well, as he was asked to join the firm after graduation and continues with the company. He became the firm’s youngest partner in 2013. His work ethic and professionalism earned him the 2013 Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants’ Trailblazer distinction, based on his professional work and his service in developing future young leaders.
4 roundUP
Dr. Jim Rodgers, ’75, Education category As a student at Northwestern, Rodgers’ career as an educator was already in motion serving as a political science tutor for international students. After receiving his undergraduate degree from Northwestern, Rodgers went on to receive both his Master’s and his Doctorate of Arts in Political Science from Idaho State University. Rodgers’s career has impacted a large student population. He taught at Idaho State University, St. Mary’s Junior College and St. Mary’s Graduate School, and continues to teach at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. Rodgers has a commitment to research in the areas of terrorism studies and national security policy. He has published two university textbooks and one novel.
Lizabeth Richey Legacy Scholarship Announced
G R A D U AT E S 2 0 1 4
Linda Ybarra-Kotich, ‘64, Humanitarian category Ybarra-Kotich graduated from Northwestern with a degree in education. Before her career placed her in the classroom, she was active in student government and in the state chapter of the Student Education Association. Ybarra-Kotich has dedicated much of her life to reaching – and teaching – the student. Her many accomplishments resulted in her induction into the Kansas Teacher’s Hall of Fame in 2010. Yet, Ybarra-Kotich knew her work also could be impactful outside the classroom. She volunteers with her church, educates the Hispanic community about health care issues and presently serves as education technical advisor on the Kansas Hispanic & Latino American Affairs Commission.
Stewart Arthurs, ’62, Ranger Recognition category Arthurs graduated in 1962 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. As a student, Arthurs exemplified leadership on our Northwestern campus. He served as president for several organizations, including Student Senate. He also excelled in sports, lettering all four years in football, basketball and track. Arthurs was named to the Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame in 1994. Arthurs serves as the city attorney for Cushing, Okla., a position he has held since 1970. He also has remained active with Northwestern, recently finishing his second term as a Foundation trustee and serving as its Chair of the Executive Committee for two years.
This year’s banquet program included recognition for someone whose work in the Foundation & Alumni Association has left a lasting impression on the greater Northwestern community. The Lizabeth Richey Legacy Scholarship was announced by Kandee Almgren, alumni band representative. Lizabeth Richey resigned as the alumni director in November 2013, after spending 22 years supporting the missions of both the University and the Foundation & Alumni Association. Her tireless work and passion to engage alumni with their alma mater set an excellent model for the organization. To support this scholarship, or to learn more about how you can invest in our students, contact the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association office at (580) 327-8593.
Class of 1989 alums in attendance at the 2014 Spring Alumni Reunion included Jeanne Weber (right), Leland Streck (center) and wife Gretchen Streck (left).
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Homecoming 2014
SAVE THE DATE:
Homecoming 2015 October 8-10, 2015
Remember T
forever
‘The Ranger’
here are many words used when describing what it means to be a Ranger: Community, Tradition, Opportunity, Knowledge and Family are among the most popular. While your college years as a student may have come and gone, being a part of the Ranger Family never ends. Keep “The Ranger” close to your heart for years to come by purchasing a limited edition bronze maquette or 20”x 24” print, created by Western artist and 2014 inductee to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, Harold Holden. The one-of-a-kind maquettes are 12-inch replicas of the much larger statues seen on Northwestern’s Alva and Enid campuses. The cost for each maquette is $2,500, with
approximately $1,500 being tax deductible. Proceeds will be used by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association for the benefit of our students and university. “The Ranger” print also comes framed ($225), framed with coin ($255), giclee ($250) and giclee framed ($350). Order your keepsakes today by completing and submitting the form at the bottom of this page, or by contacting the Foundation & Alumni Association at 580-327-8593, or nwalumni@nwosu.edu.
Order your Ranger
$2,500 20” x 24”
PRINT- $125
Please make checks payable to:
today!
Please fill out order form below:
Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association 709 Oklahoma Blvd., Alva, OK 73717
NAME: EMAIL: ADDRESS: PHONE: CITY, STATE, ZIP: *NUMBER OF PRINTS @ $125 EACH: (plus $5 each for postage) Total: *NUMBER OF MAQUETTES @ $2,500 EACH: SEQUENCE NUMBER: TOTAL: GRAND TOTAL: CHECK/MONEY ORDER ENCLOSED: YES NO CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED: VISA • MASTERCARD CARD NUMBER: NAME ON CARD: *The Foundation will strive to deliver the requested sequence numbers, but please call 580-327-8593 or email nwalumni@nwosu.edu for more information or to confirm your request.
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Karlie Parker:
Her journey of helping others continues She enjoyed the obstetrics classes and the experience she gained at Northwestern, ultimately leading her to choose her career path in Women’s Health. Parker regularly works with mothers and babies and says, “One thing I get great joy from is when I see a mother’s smiling face as she looks at her newborn child. It’s the most breathtaking experience. It almost brings me to tears every time. Seeing that reminds me why I chose to do what I do.”
Karlie Parker, ‘14, appreciates the Northwestern experience and education as a nurse at Woodward Regional Hospital.
I
n 2014, the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Nursing Division made the list of the “Top 20 Nursing Programs” in the nation, ranked at number 18 by CollegeAtlas. org. Northwestern is the only university in Oklahoma to make the 2014 achievement. Karlie Parker is proud that she had the opportunity to attend a program as well-respected as Northwestern’s. Parker, originally from Harper, Kans., recalls some of her time as a nursing student at Northwestern. She began her journey on the Alva campus and finished at Woodward. The Northwestern undergraduate nursing program – as a whole – provided all the qualifications she would need to begin her career as a nurse. Parker works at Woodward Regional Hospital in Women’s Health service. She acknowledges her success as a practicing nurse is directly related to the outstanding education she received at Northwestern. “The hands-on experience, along with the latest technology that Northwestern offers, prepared me to be an effective nurse,” Parker said. Parker also gives a lot of credit to her professors and instructors for the expert training she received in the nursing program at Northwestern.
8 roundUP
The Journey Continues Parker is back in school pursuing her master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner. She hopes to one day open a small rural clinic. She is confident her Northwestern education has prepared her to pursue a career as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. “My experiences and opportunities to work with technologies in a clinical setting, and the support of my instructors have prepared me for the next step of my career,” Parker said.
Junior nursing student Amy Wreath gains handson experience with the SimBaby® mannequin.
Northwestern’s Winning Program Leslie Collins, assistant chair to the Nursing Division, attributes the achievement of “Top 20 Nursing Program” in 2014 to the dedication of faculty to the students. She believes the division takes great pride in being a smaller school and giving individual attention to each student. “We take the time to get to know our students and we are very committed to student success,” Collins said. Alumna Karlie Parker testifies to the advantage of the program’s teacher-student environment. “When your classes are small and close-knit, you get to develop strong relationships with everyone.” Northwestern not only prepares students for real work experience, but the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) as well. CollegeAtlas.org’s ranking is based on four criteria: affordability, accessibility, academic quality and NCLEX pass rates. Collins said that Northwestern pass rates for NCLEX have been 100 percent the last four out of five years, a figure made more impressive considering the growth of the program. The number of graduates from 2013 to 2014 nearly doubled, from 27 to 46. However, this growth creates challenges for students to find facilities to complete their clinical requirements, which is a vital part of onsite experience necessary to graduate. To remain competitive, Northwestern’s Nursing Division has implemented using simulation patients, or SimMan®, to train students for real world situations. SimMan® is a realistic, fullbody, adult, wireless mannequin offering clinical functionality to teach the core skills of airway, breathing, cardiac and circulation. “With the help of software, he blinks, sweats, bleeds and breathes. Students actually need to be aware of how much fluid they give him in his IV. If he is given too much, he will die or go into a code situation.” Collins said. The mannequins provide students the feedback of an actual patient without the risk of harming a real human being. “Research shows that simulation increases critical thinking and clinical reasoning, which are very important aspects of nursing care,” Collins said. “This provides a safer environment without a human client, and they also can repeat procedures.” Beginning January 2015, the Woodward campus added a simulation baby, aptly named SimBaby®, to its lab experience. SimBaby® provides realistic conditions outside of an actual pediatric facility, including a monitor to measure vital signs. It closely models the respiratory, circulatory and vascular situations encountered with a human baby. “We simulate these situations in the lab, so students can actually experience it. That way, in clinical rotations or after they’ve graduated, they’ll have had experience with it,” Collins said. The Woodward community has stepped up to enhance the campus nursing program. Thanks to the generosity of the Woodward Regional Hospital, Bobby Alexander and the Woodward In-
“Research shows that simulation increases critical thinking and clinical reasoning, which are very important aspects of nursing care,” said Leslie Collins, assistant chair to the Nursing Division.
Mary Brune, Ed.D., RN, CNE, monitors as student Amy Wreath checks on vitals of the SimBaby®.
dustrial Foundation, nursing students have a strong, competitive advantage. Collins is already seeing the benefit with the simulation devices. “The simulation enhances their learning and their ability to be better prepared graduates. Northwestern is known for this,” she said. Collins knows employers say Northwestern graduates are very prepared, knowledgeable, responsible and professional. “Our nurses are sought after.”
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Ranger Field. New Look. Same Ranger Spirit.
Alumni, it’s time to come home.
2015
SEPT. 3 SEPT. 12 SEPT. 19 SEPT. 26 OCT. 3 OCT. 10
E L U D SCHE
OCT. 17 OKLAHOMA BAPTIST OCT. 24 @SOUTHERN @ARK-MONTICELLO NAZARENE SOUTHERN ARK. OCT. 31 ARKANSAS TECH HENDERSON STATE NOV. 7 @HARDING @OUACHITA BAPTIST NOV. 14 SWOSU @EAST CENTRAL SOUTHEASTERN OK. ST. *HOME EVENTS ARE IN WHITE
Do you know this about
YOUR Northwestern? • Number 1 in affordability for on-campus living in the United States (U.S. News & World Report)
• 4th on a list of the top 30 Most Attractive Yet Affordable College Campuses across the nation (AffordableSchools.net)
• Nursing program ranked 18th out of top 20 best programs in the nation. Ranking is
based on academic quality, affordability and accessibility, and percentage of nursing graduates passing board certification tests (CollegeAtlas.org)
• Bachelor of Science in Accounting online degree program ranked Number 31 out of 50 in nation (Affordable Colleges Foundation)
• In the top 10 for tuition costs among public universities (U.S. News & World Report) • Advanced to provisional year of candidacy in NCAA Division II membership process • The Division of Business earned accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs
• Northwestern students named Undergraduate Student of the Year for State of
Oklahoma (2012, 2013 and 2015, respectively) by National Association of Social Workers
• Our efforts in promoting service-learning were recognized by the President’s Higher
Education Community Service Honor Roll, which recognizes universities reflecting the values of exemplary community service
• The Division of Education received reaffirmation of accreditation for its Teacher Education programs
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Red Tie Jazz
&
Baseball, Hot Dogs and Apple Pie
2014
* LOGO ON BACK
MEMBERS ONLY Become a member. online Get the gear. store Exclusive to Northwestern Alumni Association members, the online store offers a large variety of merchandise carrying the “I am Northwestern” brand. From stadium seats to clothing, alumni association members can display their pride in Northwestern.
Learn more about our different levels of membership, or become a member, at my.nwfoundation.com. Once logged into your membership account, you can access the exclusive online store under the “Membership” tab. roundUP 13
Ranger Rodeo
I
through the eyes of one alum
n the last 15 years, the Northwestern Rodeo team has worked its way into the top 10 at the College National Finals Rodeo five times.
Competitive Spirit Remains
Former Miss Rodeo America Michele Mackey, ‘96, senses the same competitiveness that she remembers on Northwestern’s rodeo team 20 years ago. “Our rodeo team has always remained competitive,” Mackey said. “It was competitive while I was on the team and has been ever since.”
From Wyoming to Northwestern
Originally from Wyoming, Mackey came to Northwestern for rodeo; but it was the scholarship and small school atmosphere that made it her school of choice. “I wanted to go wherever I could get the best scholarship, and I thought that a smaller school was a better fit for me,” Mackey said. Mackey said that when she was active in college rodeo, the sport was her primary concern. Two years into
her education, she competed and won the Miss Rodeo Wyoming pageant and then followed with winning Miss Rodeo America the next year. In order to fulfill the Miss Rodeo America commitments, she was forced to put school on hold for a year. Mackey discovered she looked at things differently when she returned to school after completing her pageant title commitments. She found the greatest impact of being at a smaller school were the professors with whom she was able to build relationships. “When I came back to college, my final two years meant a lot to me because I was really able to connect with the professors and I had to really buckle down,” Mackey said. “There were several professors that influenced me in a huge way about the importance of my education. They took a special interest in their students and got to know more about me as a person.”
Michelle Mackey, owner of Daisy Village, sorts through clothing on display at her boutique.
Top right: Mackey and husband Mike Mackey with their three children (right to left) Cade, Mackinze and Colby. Bottom right: Mackey won the title of Miss Rodeo America in 1994.
14 roundUP
From Educator to Business Owner
After obtaining a degree in elementary education, Mackey taught for six years before seizing an opportunity to own and operate a business. As the proprietor of Daisy Village, a women’s clothing boutique in downtown Alva, Mackey understands the importance of community involvement and rallying behind Northwestern, especially rodeo. “I was given a lot of opportunities here. If I was going to give back to Northwestern, it would be rodeo,” Mackey said. “I think it’s very important for people to pay it forward and give somebody else a boost.”
Vision For Tomorrow
Mackey enjoys seeing the rodeo team compete. She also noted that the facilities used are the same from when she competed, even though the program has become larger and has grown in prominence and reputation. “The size and the success of our rodeo team doesn’t match the facility for competition,” Mackey said. “The facilities are not always safe for the competitors or the livestock.” While local donors have invested in the rodeo team’s practice facility, Mackey says, “We have high quality recruiting. Our student athletes need a better facility for competition.” A new arena, according to Mackey, could be a huge asset for the college and the community. “There are so many other things the arena could be used for in addition to competition,” Mackey said. “The students could put on clinics to raise money for the program, as well as concerts and trade shows.” Mackey said she hopes the community will see the value in a new facility and rally behind it. “Being here and watching the changes in the college and the campus make me proud that I graduated from Northwestern. It’s something that our community should be really proud to have.”
Northwestern competitiveness and focus show on the face of sophomore Karley Kile, as she competes during the 2014-2015 season.
Ranger Rodeo 2014-2015 stats:
1st in Central Plains Region. Men’s team placed 3rd in Central Plains Region. Women’s team won 6/10 rodeo competitions, Women’s team placed
5
dominating the region.
6
At press time, athletes in events are competing in the College National Finals in Casper, Wyoming, June 14-20, 2015.
Bequest Pledge Form Yes, I want to leave a legacy! I am committed to leaving a lasting legacy beyond my lifetime by including a charitable bequest, in my will, to the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc on behalf of Northwestern Oklahoma State University. I will execute the bequest language by adding charitable language to my will.
My Commitment I intend to leave $____________________ to the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc for charitable purposes. I intend to leave__________% of my estate assets to the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc for charitable purposes. Estimated value $____________ (if known)
My Charitable Impact I will designate an unrestricted charitable bequest to be used for Northwestern priorities as determined by University leadership. I wish to establish (or already have established) a permanent named fund with income going to the specific purpose of:________________________________________________.
My Legacy Story The Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc publishes donor names in the annual “Honor Roll�, as well as news releases to media outlets. (specific gift amount not published) I am comfortable with the acknowledgment of my gift, knowing that it can inspire others to give. I wish that my charitable bequest remain anonymous.
Name(s)______________________________________________________________________ Address____________________________ City_____________ State______ Zip____________ E-mail____________________________________________ Phone______________________ Signature(s)______________________________________________ Date_________________ Signature(s)______________________________________________ Date_________________ I/We understand that this is not a legal or binding commitment on my/our estate. The Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc should understand that the size of this future gift may be significantly different from the amount estimated above. If for any reason in the future The Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association is no longer included in my/our plan, I/we will notify you so that you can update your records. Please share a copy of this form with your estate planning attorney. The Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc, a charitable organization organized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, is exempt from federal income taxation. The tax identification number of the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc is 73-0947945. An administrative fee of 2% will apply to your donation. This fee provides essential operational support for the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation, Inc.
709 Oklahoma Blvd. | Alva, OK 73717 | Phone (580) 327-8593 | my.nwfoundation.com | E-mail nwalumni@nwosu.edu
16 roundUP
Legacy
The Reichenberger
Donovan Reichenberger enjoys the company of Northwestern’s University Singers.
Theatre and Managing/Technical Director of Herod Hall Auditorium at Northwestern. “This year we have been able to buy state-of-the-art computers and drafting software for Donovan Reichenberger, (B.A.Ed., ‘66), Alva, our scenic design and lighting design courses.” Okla., a professor of history for 25 years, shared the world The legacy of investing in students includes the with a generation of college students. But his investment in generosity of another Reichenberger. education, and Northwestern, did not end when he retired Reichenberger’s brother, Jerome Reichenberger, in 1992. M.D., (B.S., Chemistry, ‘59) of Phoenix, Ariz., established His journey as a Ranger continued as he became two endowed chairs in the names of Dr. Anna B. Fisher and an active board member for the Northwestern Foundation Dr. J. Louis Bouchard. The impact of Fisher and Bouchard & Alumni Association. When his term as Board Chairman was pivotal in Jerome’s expired, the Board of decision to pursue a career in Trustees asked him to “Donovan Reichenberger changed medicine. Dr. Reichenberger remain as Chair Emeralso established a science itus. Reichenberger the face of theatre for my students...” and chemistry scholarship in continues as a trustee today, providing valuable said Kimberly Weast, Professor of the name of his good friend, Claude LaChance. insight and sharing his
In and Out of the Classroom – Enriching the Lives of Students
Theatre, Northwestern. wisdom with his Board Impact on Students colleagues. The Reichenberger family Today, more than and their generosity will continue to make an impact on 56 Northwestern students have benefited from the generosity of Donovan Reichenberger, with more than $51,000 awarded generations of Northwestern students and on the Northwestern community. To find out more about how you can in scholarships. Reichenberger’s spirit of philanthropy is a participate in The Ranger Legacy Society, please contact testament to his conviction that education is one of the most the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association at critical infrastructures for a progressive society. “There is no better investment than the investment in (580) 327-8593 or at NWAlumni@nwosu.edu. our future generations,” says Reichenberger, who has named Northwestern Oklahoma State University in his estate plan. The Reichenberger family has set a high standard in ensuring Northwestern remains affordable to students. Re“Frequently my thoughts ichenberger and his late wife, Dorothy, established endowed return to Northwestern, scholarships in history, music and theatre, as well as two where the happiest endowed chairs for the theatre and music departments. four years of my “Donovan Reichenberger changed the face of theatre life were spent,” for my students with their scholarship opportunities, as well Jerome Reichenberger said. as academically for the theatre program with the earnings from the endowment,” said Kimberly Weast, Professor of roundUP
17
Sal Alvarado, owner, C&C Dry Cleaning and Ironing (left), pictured with son Matthew Alvarado, 16.
Sortingone Out Life, load at a time. D
reams and goals require steps. Sal Alvarado (’03, Accounting) has been willing to take every necessary step. Working at Advance Food Co., he rose through the ranks from janitor to controller. Yet, he realized early in his life he wanted to own his own business. Alvarado eventually left the corporate world to pursue his dream. A college degree was the first step in obtaining that dream. While working at Advance Food Co., Alvarado started classes at Northwestern because of the accessibility. “The ability to leave for class and return to work quickly was just the biggest benefit,” said Alvarado. “I was able to acquire an accounting degree.” In 2007, he posted the following classified ad in the Enid News and Eagle: “Individual seeking to purchase established business.” Four local business owners contacted Alvarado
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interested in selling their businesses. He extensively researched each business before he and his family purchased C&C Dry Cleaning and Ironing. “Walking into an existing business takes a careful, yet deliberate approach,” Alvarado said. “I began working with the employees immediately, so that they would see me as a colleague before they saw me as the owner. I didn’t expect any of my employees to do something I wasn’t willing to do.” A key decision Alvarado made early was to keep the existing name of the business. “A successful business is tightly linked to its name,” Alvarado explains. “The business-mind part of me did not want to change the name because I cared about the history. The previous owners created a brand with high-end clientele. I wanted to maintain that without any change. People who care about their clothes don’t care about the price; they care about the service. And I wanted to retain that.”
Undeniable Customer Service Creates Opportunity The focus on customer connections and quality work resulted in a rapidly-growing business. Alvarado moved the business from a 950-square-foot facility to a 3,000-square-foot building. Along with a new facility, C&C required state-of-the-art equipment, so Alvarado upgraded their two existing washing machines and added five, plus a new dry cleaning machine. The improvements brought an increase in customer numbers, which also made it necessary to add more employees. Again responding to the needs of his customers, Alvarado added four fulltime team members. C&C currently has eight full-time employees and two part-time employees. He is looking to offer a benefits package for his employees. “The best advertising is word of mouth and the best way to acquire that is to deliver the best in customer service,” said Alvarado. “We meet the customer’s needs by producing quality work. Every employee is committed to making sure the customer leaves satisfied.”
Smart Business Decisions Dry cleaners often look for additional products and services to meet their customer’s one-stop shopping needs. To improve the bottom line, C&C expanded by seeking – and winning – commercial accounts. “This provides steady income to our business throughout the year,” Alvarado said. “A part of our business is seasonal and these commercial accounts keep volume up in the slower months.” C&C branched out again by adding a second Enid location. This decision, like all of Alvarado’s, was driven by customers and their need for convenience.
Let’s Talk Numbers
450
total items per day.
commercial business added
20%
revenue over 3 years
275
60%
weekly returning customers
shirts cleaned per day
average # of items each customer brings in =
3
average # of customers each day =
55
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Appreciating Mentors and Education Alvarado’s mentor, Paul Allen, co-founder of Advance Food Co., told him, “Be the first one in the door and the last one to leave.” Alvarado lives by those words, earning him the respect of his employees and customers. He expects his employees to uphold his business values, including that every customer leaves happy. “We must follow through with what the customer wants,” said Alvarado. “Our customers remain loyal to us because they leave with a great product each time.” Customer contentment and loyalty builds and this allows C&C to draw customers from surrounding communities, including Blackwell, Fairview, Kingfisher and Alva. Alvarado acknowledges the role Northwestern played in his education and business success. Alvarado speaks highly of his former professors, admiring them all for different reasons. He recalls how he
Owner of C&C Dry Cleaning and Ironing, Sal Alvarado.
had to earn an A in Dr. Jordan’s accounting class. “The teachers were phenomenal,” said Alvarado. “They cared. They got involved. They were personally invested in my future.” Alvarado believes his professors at Northwestern took the time to help him when he struggled and celebrated his success. The successful businessman graduated with an accounting degree in 2003 and believes it enhanced his entrepreneurial success. Alvarado adheres to a philosophy that educating yourself on all aspects of a business is the key to ultimate success. “You have to know what is coming in and what is going out,” Alvarado said. “There are no shortcuts.”
The teachers were phenomenal. They cared. They got involved. They were personally invested in my future.”
C&C full-time employee, Debbie Martinez.
It’s All in the Family Alvarado’s immediate family is involved in and understands the business. He is adamant in teaching his three children the value of hard work, so they arrive almost every day after school to help with the family business. His oldest daughter, Olivia, 18, has learned her father’s skills in developing excellent customer relationships. She often is seen with customers in the front reception area and appears on all advertisements. “She is my poster child for the business,” said Alvarado. “She’s my little manager; she can do everything I can.”
Olivia Alvarado, 18, acts as the “poster child” for the family business. (Photo courtesy of C&C Dry Cleaning & Ironing)
Sharing Experiences with Northwestern Students
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or the last six years, the Enid campus of Northwestern Oklahoma State University has offered an entrepreneur seminar. With support from sponsors, they feature local, state, national and international entrepreneurs. The seminar gives self-made business owners the opportunity to share their experiences; particularly what to do and what not to do. Northwestern and its sponsors find successful business people ranging from the local mom-andpop businesses to large national and international businesses. This conference has highlighted speakers such as General Tom Franks, Senator Tom Coburn and Ernesto Sirolli, owner, Sirolli Institute. Alvarado also has been featured as a local entrepreneur at the seminar due to his success. Alvarado offers some final words of wisdom to fellow entrepreneurs
and to anyone wishing to start their own business. “To run a business you have to be 100 percent invested,” said Alvarado. “You have to be present and you must make your customers happy.” The self-made man lives up to his credo, just ask his happy customers.
To run a business you have to be 100 percent invested. You have to be present and you must make your customers happy.” roundUP 21
Where are you now?
We want to know!
You became a Ranger here. Once a Ranger, always a Ranger. So where are you now? Have you started a family? Do you own a business? Who have you become? We want to know! Please complete the form at my.nwfoundation.com/whereareyounow and tell us about your journey!
Join the Alumni Association today!
First 50 to join receive a FREE gift! Buy an Annual Alumni Single or Family Membership ($25, $30) and get a FREE Northwestern Alumni t-shirt!
Buy a Lifetime Alumni Single or Family Membership ($300, $400) and get a FREE Northwestern license plate frame!
HOW TO JOIN- Call us at 580-327-8593 or go to my.nwfoundation.com/alumni-membership 22 roundUP
Once a Ranger... Always a Ranger
It is said that an educator can never know the extent of their impact. For long-time educators, it is immeasurable and remains eternal. Dr. Mike Knedler provides such an impact. A music and band educator, his lessons extended beyond the classroom and into the performance aspects of his art. The students who worked with him over the years acknowledge that they learned as much about life as they did about music. These important lessons continued when Dr. Knedler left the classroom in 1990 to serve as Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences. After the university’s academic organization was restructured, he was selected to lead the School of Arts and Sciences. He has been a daily presence on the Northwestern campus for 32 years, offering a ready smile and the voice of encouragement. With his retirement, Knedler leaves with us a legacy of dedication to the students, the university and to the larger community. His wife, Ragina, also shares his passion for music education, as well as being a strong advocate for the arts and humanities in
northwest Oklahoma. “Dr. Knedler has been the consummate professional during his entire career at Northwestern,” Dr. Janet Cunningham, said. “He always had the best interests of faculty and students at heart. Dr. Knedler is a Dr. Mike Knedler tremendously talented individual who believed in the mission of Northwestern. He will be missed both personally legacy, call the Northwestern and professionally.” Foundation & Alumni Association at 580-327-8593. Honoring the Knedler Legacy For more information The Dr. Mike and Ragina Knedler on Dr. Knedler and his career, Endowed Lectureship has been essee www.nwosu.edu/knedlertablished for the purpose of providto-retire-after-32-years-as-aing financial support for enrichment ranger. activities in the arts and humanities. Activities could include attendance at national theatre or music production events, and field trips to museums and art galleries. The lectureship will support the efforts of faculty to bring writers, musicians, performers and artists to Northwestern to increase the exposure of students to arts and humanities. For more information about how you can participate in the Knedler
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lil’ rangers! Lil’ Rangers welcomed into the Ranger family include the following: Madison Jane Wood, daughter of Tyler and Shannon Wood. Sequin Lee Graves, daughter of Stockton and Crissi Graves. Josie Lynn Gaskill, daughter of Robbie and Renea Gaskill. Rebekah Stoughton, daughter of James and Lindsey Stoughton.
Katherine Brandon and Sara Cook
welcomed daughter Katherine Cook, July 4, 2014. She weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces.
Lennon Lauderdale, daughter of Chris and Lexi Lauderdale. Hunter Max Dale, son of Keith and Tiffany Dale. Jaxson Erikson, son of Cody and Joni Erikson. Hayes Cudmore, son of Kyle and Lyndee Cudmore. Oakleigh Hensy, daughter of Charlie and Ashley Hensy.
Breaker
Jerad and JoDe Bradt welcomed son Breaker Bradt, April 28, 2014. He weighed 7 pounds, 9.2 ounces.
Wade Tucker, son of Matthew and Alysson Tucker.
Your child can be featured in lil’ rangers, too!
Send us your birth announcement and we’ll send you our Lil’ Rangers t-shirt! What’s the catch? We want you to send us a photo of your child wearing the shirt, and we’ll print the information in the pages of the roundUP! Please identify your child by name and birthdate, parents’ names, Northwestern graduation years of parents and city/state of residence.
Here’s to our future Rangers!
Happy 100th Birthday, Della! Congratulations to Della Agnes (King)
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Jack, 1938 graduate, who celebrated her 100th birthday on September 2, 2014. Mrs. Jack, a native Oklahoman who now lives in California, taught generations of elementary children in her lifetime. She received a framed proclamation signed by President Janet Cunningham, and a congratulatory letter from the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association.
NONPROFIT ORG. Auto Postage Paid PERMIT NO. 18 Alva, Okla. 73717 709 Oklahoma Blvd. Alva, OK 73717 580-327-8593 nwalumni@nwosu.edu my.nwfoundation.com
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