Dennis Cady ’66
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Alumni Milestones
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Homecoming
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Sikes Legacy
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Online Master’s
Summer 2011 Vol.13, No.2
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Laura Reppart ’72
photo by Taylor Ladd
2011 December snow photo by Katie Kynion
Every year, more than 500,000 Sandhill cranes migrate through the Platte River Valley corridor on their way from wintering grounds in the southern United States and South America to their nesting grounds in the northern United States and Canada. Some 80,000 of these birds actually cross the Bering Straits to northern Russia. The cranes spend a period of weeks along the Platte River eating tons of corn left in the fields after the fall harvest, fattening up to continue their journey. No one knows why cranes from all over the world go through this tiny stretch of land before spreading out to their final destinations. The mission of York College is to transform lives through Christ-centered education and to equip students for lifelong service to God, family and society.
When I was a student at YC, I didn’t know about the crane migration. I first saw it while driving to preach at the Kearney church of Christ in 2009. There were thousands of cranes on either side of the road congregating in the fields and hundreds more either flying in or flying out. It was an aweinspiring sight then and still impresses me every year when I see it. So what? At our recent Homecoming I listened to the class of 1972 as they told stories about their lives since leaving York College. I was struck again by the impact York College has had on so many people. Lives were set on new courses and in new directions by their experience here. All who attend York College are impacted in some way by that choice. We decided our future here, found spouses here, found God here. Those discoveries shaped who we became.
Alpha Chi National College Honor Society had their induction ceremony during Homecoming. 2012-13 members are: (l-r) Mallory Sansom, Marisa Maher, Eric Howard, Alice Hackett, Brenna Johnson, Megan Eberly, Kayla Durham, Amber Clark, Alyssa Becker, Rebecca Agler, Crystal Rush (co-chairperson), Brent Smith (cochairperson) – not pictured Maegan Detlefs, Macy Mountjoy, Ryne Smith, and Mayra Urrutia. On The Cover: Carrie Berzins, senior Sports Management major from Aurora, Colorado, and Dee Ellison, senior Physical Education major from Sherman, Texas, were crowned this year’s queen and king.
The cranes have some sort of guidance system that brings them to the right place at the right time. Just like the cranes, each year students gather at this little spot in Nebraska. They come here to be fed and to prepare for a life journey. Their guidance system—God—brings them to this place for reasons they may not fully comprehend to be prepared for lives of service in their families, their communities and churches, and the world. It is a beautiful and awe-inspiring thing to behold every day on our campus. Steve Eckman President
photo by Bob DeHart ’96
Profile Excellence
Quotables
in
Out of 25 years of civil war, the nation of South Sudan emerged in 2011. Peace is being reestablished, but the area is in a humanitarian crisis. People are returning from refugee camps to find no roads, no schools, and no power or sewer infrastructure for most of the country. Access to healthcare and clean water are inadequate. Many are still vulnerable to attack. While some would see only the heartbreak and challenge of this area, Dennis Cady ’66 sees something else: opportunity. Cady, a long time missionary, minister, and businessman, was looking for a new location where he could invest his time and talents. “I don’t mind going places that are a little bit dangerous, a little bit dirty. Places where other people say, ‘I couldn’t go there!’” he says. On the initial visit to South Sudan, “We saw every kind of need.” The greatest needs were for clean water, healthcare, and education. Cady knew these people needed one other thing: the Gospel message. “I am a big proponent of combining humanitarian work and church planting,” says Cady, who has been a part of such efforts in Malaysia, Indonesia, Haiti, and the Philippines. Cady has visited South Sudan several times and is currently in the process of building a school in Jonglei, where the government has given him and his partner in this work, Chuck Dennis, six acres of prime real estate. The proposed boarding school will teach vocational skills, such as tailoring and welding. They will also teach the Bible. Cady has big
“I am a big proponent of combining humanitarian work and church planting.”
...continued next page
Miller brothers, Michael and Matthew, work the Homecoming crowd to raise money and awareness of their Haiti mission efforts. (above) 2012 Alumnus of the Year was awarded during Homecoming chapel to David Lynn ’74, founder and owner of Sequoia Consulting Group and a member of the York College Board of Trustees. (below)
In this issue: 3 Dennis Cady - Profile in Excellence 5 Faculty Additions 6 Athletic Hall of Fame 8 Young Alumni Milestones 10 Homecoming 12 Sikes Family Legacy 14 Success Center 15 Online Master’s 16 Alumni News and Notes 18 Competitive Speech 19 Campus View 20 Panther Athletics 22 Little Women 23 Around the Corner 24 Calendar
Heritage is a semi-annual publication for alumni and friends of York College. The magazine is available online at www.york.edu/alumni. Heritage Editor Vol. 15, No. 1 Chrystal Houston ’03 Director of Alumni and Communication 402-363-5607 chrystal.houston@york.edu Assistant Editor/Design Steddon Sikes ’84 Director of Publications Heritage Contributors Tyler Cox ’16 Bobby DeHart ’95 Chrystal Houston ’03 Katie Kynion ’13 Taylor Ladd ’10
Shannon Leinen ’07 Tim McNeese ’73 Logan Siddall ’12 Stanten Sikes ’75 Steddon Sikes ’84
In Excellence
ONE STARFISH AT A TIME: Cady with children in Indonesia
plans for the school, which will house 70 students and eventually grow to 140. Students will be charged a small amount for tuition so that they will be invested in their studies; however, much of the cost of their education will be underwritten by donors. The school will admit students in their 20s and 30s from each of the six tribes in the area. Cady hopes the classroom interactions will break down walls of prejudice created over generations and lead to greater harmony and stability in the nation. Students will return home with practical skills and Aguer the knowledge that neighboring tribes are not their enemies. Cady hopes that the students will also carry the Gospel with them back to their villages. Cady’s missionary zeal was ignited during his years at York College. He came to YC in 1964 with plans to major in business. Instead, he became a Christian, majored in Bible, and was one of the first students to be sent out by the Master’s Apprentice Program. Since that time, his missionary journeys have taken him all around the globe. “I’ll go to heaven being grateful to York College,” says Cady. “It changed my life. It
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made my life.” He recently completed his memoir “Go Ye Meant Go Me: The Missionary Experiences of Dennis Cady.” The book follows Cady’s adventures in foreign fields, but it also challenges the reader with some of Cady’s hot button topics about mainstream Christianity. Cady has a big problem with churches that invest in lavish buildings and “ten talent preachers,” but say they can’t afford to support mission work. There’s nothing wrong having a nice building and a gifted preacher, but we must remember that those comforts are only a means to an end, he says. “I am deeply concerned that the church in America is so selfish,” says
Cady operates through his own non-profit, The Starfish Foundation. The name comes from the story about the boy walking along a beach throwing starfish back into the water before they die. When someone points out that he can’t possibly make a difference, there are just too many starfish, the boy throws another and responds, “I made a difference to that one.” One such starfish is a man named Aguer, a guide that helped Cady travel in South Sudan on his first trip. As they traversed the country, “we started talking about his soul,” says Cady. “He was just hungry for information.” They studied together and two days later Aguer obeyed the Gospel and was baptized. Today Aguer is overseeing the construction of the school in Jonglei. He is also teaching the Gospel to others in the community. Though the needs seem daunting at times, Cady is ready to meet the challenge, one starfish at a time.
“I’ll go to heaven being grateful to York College. It changed my life. It made my life.” Cady, who predicts that on the Day of Judgment we will be called to account for Jesus’ words in Matthew 25: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in…” “We will be asked, ‘Did you do that?’” says Cady.
More information at thestarfishfoundation.net
Faculty Additions E.A. Levitt School of Business
Department of Behavioral Sciences York College board member DR. EDWARD J. BAILEY has taken on a new role as he stepped into the classroom this fall to teach courses in criminal justice and business. Bailey holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Nebraska and has had a long career in the legal field. Bailey is a licensed attorney in Nebraska.
Department of Education DR. LOUISE BAILEY has been an educator working with preschool, elementary, junior high and high school students for more than 20 years in a variety of classroom settings. This fall, she joined the faculty at YC as an associate professor. Bailey holds a master’s degree in human development and the family from UNL, and a EdD in curriculum and instruction from Tennessee State University. DR. HILLREY DUFNER has joined the faculty as an associate professor of education. He earned a PhD from Texas A&M University and has over 30 years of classroom and administrative experience at all levels of education, from elementary to graduate studies. He has also written a series of educational books for young readers as well as several adult novels.
Kites Return Home to York photo by Bob DeHart ’96
STEVEN W. THOMPSON, CPA, joined the faculty this fall as an associate professor of Business. He teaches accounting primarily, as well as other business courses. Thompson attended York College in 1976-77. He continued his education at the University of Iowa, where he earned a bachelor’s in accounting. He also holds a master’s degree in accounting and taxation from the University of Hartford, in West Hartford, Conn. He has experience in academia as well as the corporate world. For the past seven years, he has taught graduate and undergraduate courses at the University of Hartford, Barney School of Business.
Redesigning the Rat Race DR. JACLYN SPIVEY didn’t intend to study rodents, she says. “Rat brains really were an accident,” she jokes. Spivey, the new assistant professor of psychology and department chair, says she set out to be a psychiatrist. However, after some practical experience in the field, she decided that was not the career for her. She took a job working at the rat lab at Tulane University mostly for the paycheck. She discovered, much to her surprise, that she was fascinated by the creatures in her care and by the discoveries they enabled. Spivey went on to earn a PhD in behavioral neuroscience at University of Texas at Austin, focusing on sex differences and stress. She is keenly interested in hormones and how they impact cognitive ability and personality between the genders. You can find her published research on this topic at pubmed.com. She left the lab to enter the classroom four years ago. “I love what I do,” she says. Interacting with students is challenging and stimulating. When questioned about the necessity of animal experimentation, she tells students about important lessons that have been learned from studying rats in a variety of settings that would not be appropriate for human studies. “I could teach a whole class on this,” she says. To further illustrate the lesson, Spivey is interested in developing a basic rodent lab at York College. Students need the exposure to the animals and an understanding of how research is conducted before grad school if they are serious about this field. Spivey’s previous experiences have been at much larger universities in Texas and Louisiana. Acclimating to the weather in Nebraska has been a challenge, but she says she and her family are loving the small town and the spiritual community at YC.
For DR. TERENCE and JO KITE, returning to York has been a blessed homecoming. It’s also been a whole lot of work. From moving back into their old house on Blackburn Avenue to relishing the cooler temperatures and looking forward to hunting season, the couple says that they are enjoying all of the little things that they had missed the past 25 years that they’ve been away.
These servants still have more to give to YC: both are reinvesting their time and energies as faculty members. Jo is the associate dean of graduate programs and Terry is a professor of physics. Terry is developing a dual degree program in engineering so that students can attend three years at YC and two years at a participating school to graduate with two bachelor’s degrees in five years. Jo is organizing the new online master’s degree in curriculum and instruction YC will offer in the spring, as well as other graduate programs. For various periods beginning in 1967, the Kites served 12 years in York before moving to California in 1987, where they worked and taught at Pepperdine University. Their son Jason is an assistant professor of physics at YC. Their son Derek is a former YC coach, now at Lubbock Christian. Though Jo and Terry are busy, both are enthusiastic about being back in York. “It feels really good. I feel like we’re at home,” says Jo.
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Hall of Fame
YC Athletic Hall of Fame Honors Athlete, Journalist and Coach
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hree men were inducted to the York College Athletic Hall of Fame at a Homecoming luncheon event. Each of these men represents a different element of sports history at YC: Don Moomey ‘59, a star athlete; Hub Foster, a sports journalist; and Bruce Tandy ‘67, a coach. What they all have in common is their close ties to athletics at YC and their hearts for service. More than 100 attendees gathered for the luncheon honoring the inductees, including guests from as far away as California. The ceremony included emotional tributes to each of the men from friends and family members. Don Moomey was the first to be inducted. His son, Chris Moomey, gave a loving tribute to his father, commenting on not only what a great athlete he was during his college years, but also, what a terrific man he is still today. A York native, Moomey attended York College from 1956 to 1959 where he was a star of the basketball team. He went on to have a long career in public service with the Colorado State Don and Judie (Christesson ’60) Moomey Patrol.
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YC Athletic Hall of Famers — Don Moomey, Colis Campbell, and Bruce Tandy pose in front of their plaques with YC athletic director Jared Stark. (above)
Hub Foster was unfortunately not able to be present for the ceremony due to poor health. Dr. Dickie Hill, president of the York College Lettermen’s Association, spoke about the impact that Foster made by covering YC athletics extensively in the York News-Times for many years. Foster was the voice and the pen of the Panthers, often traveling with the team. He was also a good friend to the coaches and players. Foster’s daughter, Jane Thompson, was present to receive the award on her father’s behalf. Two men shared the microphone to give tribute to Bruce Tandy—his son, James Tandy, and his longtime friend, Dr. Shane Mountjoy, vice president for student development. Each spoke about Tandy’s dedication to others and his kind and generous spirit. During his 40 years
at YC, Tandy wore many hats in the athletic department, including coach of the women’s basketball, volleyball, and softball teams, as well as men’s and women’s tennis, athletic director and intramural director. Also present at the ceremony was Coach Colis Campbell, one of last year’s Hall of Fame inductees. The luncheon was followed by an unveiling ceremony for the Athletics Hall of Fame wall in the newly renovated Freeman Center gym. Nominations for the 2013 Athletic Hall of Fame induction are now being accepted. You can see images and video from the 2012 event, as well as find additional information about nominating someone for the Hall of Fame or joining the Lettermen’s Association at www.york.edu.
Bruce ’67 and Sheila (Howell ’70) Tandy have been part of the YC story for 40 plus years. (left)
York College
Fund
2012-2013 Clear a path… bless a student… invest in a new generation. The York College Fund provides access to a new generation by funding student scholarships. This fall, nearly 95 percent of incoming students needed and received a scholarship award. The York College Fund is dedicated to underwrite these scholarships and make a YC education possible regardless of a student’s financial situation. As the need for scholarship awards is critical, a group of current and former trustees have joined together to offer a Trustee Challenge for this year’s campaign. Every gift to the York College Fund will be matched up to $220,000. Every gift will bless a student’s life. Double your gift. Double the blessing. Invest today.
Make your gift online at www.york.edu/alumni/give.asp or scan the QR code below.
Photo by Taylor Ladd FALL 2012 |
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Milestones Three things that made all the difference Dr. Aaron Fletcher ’02 says he got three things as a student at YC—something he needed, something he wanted, and a bonus. “The thing that I wanted when I came to school was critical thinking,” he says. “I wanted to develop those skills because I wanted to have influence,” especially in the realm of science and medicine. He had a dream of incorporating a Christian worldview into a profession which is known for religious skepticism. As a student, Fletcher sat at the feet of faculty members such as Dr. Ray and Gail Miller, who taught him those critical thinking skills he so desired. They helped him develop the ability to synthesize information from many sources, a talent that has made him successful both as a researcher and as an advisor to hedge fund managers on medical investments. “The something that I needed was spiritual growth,”
he says. He notes that he developed wisdom and discernment alongside his critical thinking skills, which have made it possible for him to be successful in work and able to bring glory to God in his profession. The extra bonus? Social growth. Fletcher says YC was instrumental in helping him mature socially; creating a network of friends, mentors, and colleagues that would be invaluable to him after he left. Add to that classmate Holly Eckstein ’03, whom he married after graduation—a bonus indeed. Today, Aaron and Holly are members of the President’s Council, which provides input to York College administrators about the direction of the college and new ideas for success. They are also prayer warriors and ambassadors for the college, as well as financial supporters. Why do Aaron and Holly
Dr. Aaron Fletcher ’02 with his wife Holly (Eckstein ’03) and their daughter Madeline.
continue to invest in YC? Aaron says he’s paying it forward and investing in the future. “While at YC the faculty, spiritual growth, and friendships built there put me on the right trajectory for the rest of my life to successfully bring glory to the Lord and lean on Him in all I do,” says Aaron. “I know that such a trajectory is not unique to me and also realize that people in the past invested in YC, which led to my benefit. Therefore, I feel the Lord’s call to pay-it-forward and invest in helping YC set future students on God’s trajectory.” “Now that I am out of the ‘YC bubble’ and into the real world I am all the more
reminded of how desperate our nation and world are for a Christian worldview,” he says. “I see firsthand the need for leaders…who are grounded in Christ and look at problems and develop solutions with a Christian worldview.” Fletcher is an assistant professor of biochemistry at Dallas Baptist University, as well as the CEO and senior analyst of Bios Research, LLC, an independent research firm that provides monthly healthcare research for hedge funds and the investment advisor industry. He is also serving as the chairelect of the 1,600 member Dallas/Fort Worth section of the American Chemical Society.
YC’s newest doctor gets published
photo by Ray Miller
Dr. Abigail (Henderson ’05) Anderson had her research published in the March 2012 issue of Developmental Biology
Journal. Her own photo of a fruit fly eye was chosen for the cover. Anderson received her PhD in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology from Indiana University in May and accepted a postdoctoral position at New York University Medical Center, starting mid-November.
(left) Anderson is the niece of YC’s own Gail Miller, associate professor of biology, pictured together in the famed “fly lab” at IU. (right) Cover of the March 2012 issue of Developmental Biology Journal. photo by Abby Anderson
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Pictured with Captain Ridley at the promotion ceremony are classmates Mark Smesrud ’10, Kevin Claypool ’06, Stephen Colwell ’05, Ben Hackett ’07 and YC Campus Minister Tim Lewis ’84.
Veteran’s Liaison to support YC students
Building bridges with words Ridley ’07 serves airmen and families
Wyoming Air National Guard Captain Rusty Ridley ’07 says that certain moments in history define a career in the military. The first such moment for him was September 11, 2001. He enlisted one month after the attacks. The second happened ten years later, in December 2011. He was deployed to an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia where he witnessed the final days of the Iraq drawdown—the mass exodus of personnel and equipment that marked the end of the war. It is estimated to be the largest logistical movement since World War II, says Ridley. Watching the gates on the border of Iraq close after the last American military vehicles crossed over was something he won’t forget. “We were a part of history,” he says. “The Iraq war and Afghanistan really defines this generation of people serving in the Air Force,” the way that the Gulf War and Desert Storm did for previous generations. “It was surreal to be there at its end.” Today, Ridley is safely back on American soil in his home state of Wyoming. He is currently serving in a public affairs position
and looking at the possibility of another overseas deployment in the future. He says it is great to be using the skills he learned at YC, where he earned a degree in speech theory communication, everyday on the job. Ridley has an important task as a public affairs officer: telling the stories of the men and women he serves with, putting a face on the military. As approximately one percent of the American population serves in the active guard and reserve military today, Ridley says there is sometimes a lack of understanding between the military and civilian world. He attempts to bridge that gap with information. Ridley’s goal is to demonstrate the value of his fellow airmen through photos, video, and written articles so that their families and communities can have a sense of pride and ownership in the work that they are doing. That pride translates into support. And that support is vital to the success of the military--and to individual airmen, says Ridley. In October, he was promoted to his current rank of captain. He hopes to soon begin work on a master’s degree in public administration as well as continue his professional military education at squadron officer school and other leadership opportunities in the coming years. Ridley says he has no plans of leaving the military. His job has taken him many places and he’s had the opportunity to meet many people and explore cultures. “It’s an easy choice to continue,” he says. “I’ve had so many great experiences.”
The transition from military to college can be a challenge for many veterans. Going from the heavily structured routines of life in the Service, where expectations are clear and immediate, to the much more relaxed atmosphere of campus, where no commanding officer is checking up on progress, can be disorienting to some vets. Navigating their benefits to pay for college and other services can be overwhelming. To meet these needs and others, Dr. Michael Case, professor of Bible, will serve the York College campus as a veteran’s liaison. Case, an Army vet, says he is familiar with the special needs of this population and is eager to serve them. Having a veteran’s liaison on campus is important, says Case, even though our current veteran population is small. “It’s a way to show that we care about them,” he says. “Veterans can come with many issues—some of which we can’t deal with. Letting them know that we care about them and pointing them to the resources available can remove a lot of frustration.” Current and prospective YC students can contact Case to discuss financial aid, veteran’s benefits, and other needs pertaining to campus life. He suggests prospective or incoming students connect with him right away so that they can access the financial assistance for education available to veterans. One challenge Case sees for veterans is that they tend to isolate themselves. They have trouble relating to classmates who have not experienced the real world. They tend not to join clubs or participate in extracurricular activities as much as their non-military peers. Case plans to reach out to these students and create a support network for them on campus, connecting them with other veterans. “I want them not to get lost on campus, but to know that there are others who care and who understand their situation,” he says. Contact Case at mlcase@york.edu or (402)363-5647. FALL 2012 |
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Panther Pride! photo by Bob DeHart ’96
A Time of Celebration
Homecoming and High School Days Weekend
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omecoming and High School Days on the YC campus was a blessed weekend yet again. Gorgeous Saturday weather, numerous athletic and fine arts events, Hall of Fame inductions, alumni and legacy awards, class reunions, crowning of Homecoming royalty, featured chapel speakers—Patti (Klein) Sikes and Dan Knight—from the class of 1972, alumni golf tournament, and fellowship that went late into the night were all part of an incredible weekend. The campus, in all of its fall beauty and ideal temps was right on cue for guests, alumni, and college prospects to enjoy the festivities. If you missed out on this wonderful time to be on campus, there’s always next year! Make plans now to join us October 11-13, 2013, for a great York College Homecoming.
photo by Billy Lones
(above) The traditional invitation for choir alumni to take the stage at Homecoming chapel saw 120+ perform Lord, Make Me an Instrument and The Lord Bless You and Keep You. (top) Morgan Goracke and Jasmine Agee display their support of the Panthers.
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Under first-year head coach Jenny Anderson, the volleyball team was victorious 3-1 in their thrilling Homecoming games against Grace University.
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Gurganus Hall was filled to capacity as guests enjoyed the humorous production The Inspector General put on by the YC Theatre Department.
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Homecoming Royalty was crowned during halftime of the men’s soccer game with Carrie Berzins, senior Sports Management major from Aurora, Colorado, receiving the honors as YC queen and DeAnthony Ellison, senior Physical Education major from Sherman, Texas, crowned king. Other members of the Homecoming Court were senior candidates (front row l-r): Katie Kynion, Reid VanWesten, Alice Hackett, Brent Smith, Stephanie Studebaker, and Michael Miller; (back row) Freshman – Nicole Gates and Levi Swenson; Sophomores – Molly Bartee and Caleb Smith; Juniors – Alaia Navratil and Matthew Miller.
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The classes of ’71, ’72, and ’73 got together several times over the weekend to catch up on each other’s news. They had a special Sunday morning service in the Prayer Chapel in which they honored classmate Laura Reppart (pg. 16) with a collection that totaled over $1,600 for her family.
photo by Tim McNeese ’72
Homecoming Snapshots
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YC Legacy Stafford ’94
Stewart ’80
Steddon ’84
Sherena ’78 Shawna ’77
Shelly ’76
Stacy ’68
Shanon ’87
Sharla ’73
Stanten ’75 Sharon ’69
Joyce ’66
photo by Stanten Sikes ’75
Sikes Legacy Honored
Joyce ’66
Stacy ’68
Sharon ’69
Steve ’72
Sharla ’73
For the past six decades, one family has made a deeper impact on the York College campus than any other.
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or size and longevity alone, the Sikes family is significant—42 members of the family have attended classes at YC, and many of those also served as faculty or staff over the years. More important is the family’s contribution to the spiritual life at YC and how they continue to bless the college as ambassadors all around the world. Many bearing the name of Sikes were campus leaders during their college years. On athletic teams, in choirs, and in clubs, they could be counted on as friends and classmates, known for
their good nature and infectious joy. After college, they went on to honor their alma mater as they worked in ministry in foreign and domestic fields, became doctors, educators, church elders and Bible class teachers, bank managers, and more. In recognition of all that the Sikes family has done for York College, the school honored the family with the York College Legacy Award at Homecoming alumni chapel. All 13 Sikes children with spouses, plus a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren were present to receive the award.
The award recognized the entire family, but special tribute is due to parents Jack and Robbie Sikes. They sent their oldest child, Joyce, to York College in 1964. Then throughout the 60s, 70s, 80s and into the 90s, their other 12 children followed in their big sister’s footsteps. Not long after that, a second generation of Sikes arrived at York
“York College had provided exactly the kind of growth culture we had hoped for.” – Robbie Sikes
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The Farmer and the Violinist
Steve ’72
It would seem that the farmer, With calloused hands and sun browned skin. Had nothing in common with the nimble fingered maiden, Who played the violin. But first impressions can be deceptive, And in this case it’s oh so true. Because when they joined hands in marriage, It’s a wonder what they grew. (excerpt of a tribute written to Jack and Robbie by Stanten Sikes ’75 and read at Homecoming chapel)
Stanten ’75
Shelly ’76
Shawna ’77
Sherena ’78
Stewart ’80
Steddon ’84
Shanon ’87
Stafford ’94
“My greatest joy is to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” One of Robbie’s favorite scriptures from III John 4
College. Some of that generation are current students at YC. In 1973, Jack and Robbie were recognized as York College Parents of the Year. At that point, six of their children had attended YC. Since then, the Sikes’ footprint on the campus has grown exponentially. Robbie says that she and Jack were very intentional about raising a Christian family. They did their best to plant seeds of faith in their children and they were pleased when each chose to attend YC when they were ready to leave home. “We could see how the spiritual
commitment of our children was able to take root and grow stronger in a Christcentered community. Each time one of them would come home for holidays or summer we could not help but notice how York College had provided exactly the kind of growth culture we had hoped for,” she says. York College wishes to recognize Jack and Robbie for their dedication to Christian education and the sacrifices they made to ensure it was available to their children and grandchildren.
To see the presentation of the Legacy Award go to www.york.edu/news/2012/homecoming.asp or scan the QR code.
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Breaking News
POISED
for Success York College SUCCESS Center welcomes students
Campbell Activity Center Nearing Completion
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onstruction of the Colis and Dolores Campbell Activity Center that began in early May is nearing completion. Located near the northeast corner of campus, the Campbell Activity Center will provide space for intramurals, a wide variety of student activities, special events and daily chapel. A dedication ceremony for the 15,600 square-foot multi-use facility is scheduled for January 18 at 10:00 a.m. The event is open to the public.
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photo by Marti Soderholm
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or students in need of a little extra help with assignments, or just a quiet and comfortable place to study, the York College SUCCESS Center is available. Located in the newly renovated parlor of Middlebrook Hall, the SUCCESS Center is a resource and a refuge for students who are serious about their studies. The SUCCESS Center hosted an open house this fall to showcase all of its amenities. New director Marti Soderholm, associate professor, says that so far this semester, 241 students have made use of the SUCCESS Center tutoring and facilities, clocking a total of more than 1,274 hours. That number will likely grow as the semester continues and term papers and final projects loom. Soderholm says that students on academic probation or conditional acceptance are required to spend a certain amount of time working in the SUCCESS Center, but many other students choose to work there simply because it can be more conducive to study than the library or residence halls. Outfitted with comfortable furniture and tasty treats, there is a positive energy to the space, with lots of color, natural light, and welcoming smiles from the director. Soderholm manages a team of eight student tutors. Those in need of help can schedule time with the tutors or drop in throughout the day. The location is a boon, too, as Middlebrook Hall now houses the majority of faculty offices, as well as the registrar and academic dean. Help is close at hand for students with questions regarding assignments. Funds for the SUCCESS Center were made available thanks to a $2 million Federal Title III grant and other generous gifts from the York Community Foundation as well as private gifts.
(top) Megan Salfrank, Kailey Firm, Michaela Hartman, and Danielle Berry enjoy the new digs at the SUCCESS Center during its open house. (above) Students utilize the quiet environment to work on assignments.
YC Joins Council of Christian Colleges and Universities York College’s application for membership in the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU) has recently been approved, making YC the first school in Nebraska to be admitted. Membership in the CCCU will benefit students, as well as faculty, staff, and administrators. The organization provides resources such as international study opportunities and additional coursework, as well as conferences and workshops. “The mission of CCCU is very much in keeping with the mission of York College. We are pleased to be a part of the organization,” says YC President Steve Eckman. “Membership in CCCU will provide additional opportunities for everyone on our campus. It will also serve as a source of data from schools similar to ours to help us make the best decisions for our students.”
York College Online to offer Master’s Degree
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t’s easier than ever to have the York Experience, as you can now earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree at York College from home. The Higher Learning Commission has recently approved accreditation for York College Online to offer a wide variety of degrees, including a Master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. Previously, York College Online’s accreditation was limited to bachelor’s degree completion for former York College students. This change is significant, as it will allow more students to have access to the quality Christian education York College Online provides. In addition to the range of degrees currently available, in the spring of 2013 the college will begin offering a bachelor’s of business with an emphasis in health care information management. In summer 2013, a bachelor’s of science in criminal justice will be added. According to Associate Dean for Online Education Lisa Cantrell-Menke, York College Online is a great option for those that want the York Experience with the flexibility of the digital format. Classes are taught by Christian faculty members and lessons include spiritual content, no matter what the subject. With more campus activities, such as athletic games and choir concerts, streaming on the York College website, online students can still feel a part of the campus life no matter where they are. Cantrell-Menke says she is especially excited about the start-up of the Master’s degree, as it will have an emphasis in best practices with a global perspective. Created for traditional as well as corporate educators, the program will be unique in that it will have particular focus on social justice and diversity issues. For more information, please see online.york.edu.
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One of God’s Angels 1955 Leon and Ramona (Watkins) Frankamp have been blessed with three outstanding daughters, 12 grandchildren, and one great grand son. Since retiring in 1989, they have filled their time with service--doing volunteer work as a construction supervisor or photographer for Habitat for Humanity. They are also involved in outreach and the mercy ministry at the church they helped to build, where Leo serves as an elder. They would love to hear from classmates. PO Box 5232, Pine Mountain Club, CA 93222 lfrfh4h@ frazmtn.com 1958 Roger and Betty (Williams) Lessly have a new address: 329 Fox Fire Knoll Dr, Kimberling City, MO 65686. rlessly@gmail.com 1961 Daniel “Danny” Kingsley has moved: 8008 34th St, Lot #58, Lubbock, TX 79407. Danny was elected president of the Texas Assoc. of Single Square Dancers for the 5th year. He has been a member for 22 years. In May he was given the honor of Ranch Host of the Year for the National Ranching Heritage Association, where he serves as a ranch host and event photographer. 1964 Janetkay Gurganus is to be congratulated for being awarded the title of Fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Managers on Sept. 8, 2012. She is the office manager for Duggan Endodontics in Austin, TX. 1967 Salah Ibrahim is teaching part time at a local junior college in San Antonio. He and his wife Nosaiba have been blessed with three sons: Sami, Ramsey, and Shaady. 7711 Oakhill Park, San Antonio, TX 78249 sibrahim@satx.rr.com Rene’ (James) Phares recently completed 27 years of working for the Magnolia Center CofC in Riverside, California, as the church secretary. She would love to hear from other 67’ers! She and her husband Kelly live at 4466 Sutton Place, Norco, CA 92860 rene@magcenterchurch.com
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Larry Souder is self-employed (Souder Productions) as a videographer producing videos for non-profit organizations. He also produces and voices a weekly radio feature segment called Souder & Friends for World Christian Broadcasting. His wife Martell is a retired teacher. 421 Amquiwood Ct, Madison, TN 37115 www. Souderproductions.com Larry@ SouderProductions.com Judy (Amundson) Odom lost her husband of 42 years, Forest David, on August 25, 2012. Deepest condolences to Judy, her sons Frank and Jay, as well as two granddaughters. 10840 PR 2221, Abilene, TX 79602 judo.odom@ gmail.com 1968 Carl and Janet Clift updated their info. PO Box 928, Bentonville, AR 72712. 1970 Ed and Carolyn Hance have moved: 30393 High Spirit Ranch Rd, Hempstead, TX 77445. ckhance@ aol.com Mary Beth (Ames) Palyash passed away on Feb. 10, 2012, after suffering a major heart attack. Her husband Jerry said that she spoke very highly of her days at YC. jerry67205@aol.com 1973 Mark and Marcia (Stark) Gronberg recently were blessed with the opportunity to travel to New Zealand to meet their newest grandchild. Mark is a point of care coordinator and clinical laboratory scientist at Shawnee Mission Medical Center and Marcia is a registered nurse with Home Healthcare. They have 6 children, including 2 daughters-in-law, and 5 grandchildren. Lord willing they will add an additional son-in-law and daughter-in-law in 2013. If you are planning to be in the area, please let them know. 10135 Broadmoor St, Overland Park, KS 66212 mnmgronberg@yahoo.com 1974 Sylvia (Chavez) Barron is a registered RN and would like to hear from classmates either on Facebook or email. “See you at Homecoming 2014 for our 40th!” sylviacbarron@ yahoo.com
On October 27, people from around the world watched a special memorial service that was live-streamed on the Web. The 2.5 hour service was not for someone wealthy or powerful… at least not by worldly standards. By heavenly standards, Laura (Loutzenhiser) Reppart ’72, was indeed a person of renown, loved and respected as a great woman of faith by people on several continents. Laura, a longtime missionary in Kenya, died October 23, 2012 after a short battle with cancer. Laura left behind her husband of 40 years, Jim Reppart ’72; daughter Rebekah ’97 and her husband Shawn ’97 and their three children of Nashville, Tenn; daughter Rachel ’01 and her husband Bryan ’01 and their two children of Lincoln, Neb.; and son James and his wife, Sarah of Dallas, Texas, as well as other family and friends from around the world. If the 14,000+ visits to her Caringbridge site are any indication, her loved ones were many. Jim and Laura worked in Kenya for more than 20 years, planting churches and equipping leaders. They also operated a store-front clinic to serve the urban poor and Laura ministered to street children. Laura was known throughout the region for her ability to teach children about God and Jesus. “Laura was the organizer and administrator of a holistic mission for Caris Foundation that has changed the lives of hundreds and will change the lives of thousands,” says friend and mentor Dottie Schulz ’58. “Laura leaves behind 200 single-parent mothers and numerous orphans who call her blessed because she reached out to the poor and disenfranchised. Because of her efforts and the efforts of her husband, Jim, these women are able to support their families and educate their children. And because of Laura, they know her Lord; many have turned to Him.” Jim and Laura got their start in missions at York College, says their daughter, Rachel. They met and married at YC, then went on a two year assignment to Cameroon with the Master’s Apprentice Program. That trip set the course for the rest of their lives. They finished their degrees at Abilene Christian University, then went back to Cameroon for a time. Eventually they made their way to Africa, and Kenya had been their home ever since. Rachel says they were interested in blessing the poor in sustainable ways and helping lift them out of poverty. Rachel remembers her mother: “Her kids and grandkids were so important to her. She invested a lot in her family. She was a mom...to so many beyond her family.” Jim’s brother, Thomas Reppart, was one of the many to speak at Laura’s memorial service. “In Laura’s life there was an inner illumination that often shined a bright light into some of the darker corners of this world—and as well, into some of the darker places in some of our individual lives,” he said. “Three scriptures that she has illuminated particularly well in the last few months and weeks of her life are: ‘Pray without ceasing’; ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness’; and ‘For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain’.” Jim has returned to Kenya to continue the work he and Laura began so many years ago.
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Susan (Waller) Noah and her husband Ben recently relocated closer to their granddaughter who was born in March of this year. Susan would like to hear from any alumni who might be in the area. 1302 River Oaks Dr, Flower Mound, TX 75028 senoah@gmail.com 1976 Cindy (Scofield) Cardwell updated her info: 17064 County Road 2, Wiggins, CO 80654. Cindy is a stay-at-home mom, and her husband Rocky is a branch manager for Hajoca. They have 4 children of which the youngest is still at home. crcardwell@rtebb.net Glenda (Hardman) McEuen shared news on the kids: their youngest, Matthew, married Christine Achom in May, and Kristin went to China in August to teach English. Glenda is an office manager for Focus Inc., and Rick is an assistant professor at Crowley’s Ridge College. 5507 Wendy St, Paragould, AR 72450 glendamceuen@gmail.com 1981 Juan and Pamela (Manley) Martinez bear the loss of their daughter Tensia by the hand of her husband Chevel Richard on October 25, 2012 in a murder-suicide. Juan and Pamela are comforted in that Tensia had returned to the Lord in the weeks prior to her death. She is survived by her brothers Juan III, and Michael and two sons Chavelo (3 yr.) and Ace (7 mo.). 7348 Jorgensen Ave So, Cottage Grove, MN 55016 jpmartnz@comcast.net 1982 Teresa (Seyler) Abraham and her husband Burl have been happily married for 27 years. Their twin sons, Jeremy and Nathan, were recently married, and their youngest, Ben, is currently a junior at YC. Burl is a planning analyst for Spirit Aerosystems. 17238 SW Tawakoni Rd, Rosehill, KS 67133 teabraham@ hotmail.com Beverly Emrick updated her address: 4123 Grimes St, Houston, TX 77087. Beverly was confined to a wheelchair and a walker for many years. After two years of intense therapy, she now walks with a cane and is able to go to church. She recently had surgery for cataracts as well as lumbar infusion surgery. Perry and Kristi Ryals updated their information: 1756 Grove Dr, Shakopee, MN 55379. Perry is a materials manager for Valmont Industries. They have one daughter: Bailey (18). ryalspr@hotmail.com 1983 Jerry Bacus and his wife Kelly have updated their email address: kel_jer@sbcglobal.net
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1985 Sondra (Boyd) Davis and her husband Brian recently returned from 17 years of mission work in Africa. Sondra is a homemaker and Brian is the minister of missions & evangelism at the Hillcrest CofC. They have two sons: Noah (12) and Bryson (9). 849 Scott Place, Abilene, TX 79601 sondrajdavis@gmail.com 1986 Sharon Rodriguez has updated her contact information. 2295 N Smoketree Ave, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403 havasu_raggedyann@ yahoo.com 1987 Anne (Hasselman) and Mark Darville were married Feb. 3, 2012. Anne is an oil and gas program assistant with Arthur Gallagher and Mark works with The Darville Company. 6508 Amber, Odessa, TX 79762 anneskitchen@live.com Jennifer (Pappas) Fisher moved from south Texas in 2010 back to the great NW (Seattle, WA area) and has been working for a vendor at Microsoft. She’s a background screener for Takouba Security, LLC. fshrjen@msn.com 1988 Kenneth Shackelford and his wife Tanja are currently traveling across the United States with their four children, visiting those who support their mission work. The family has returned to the U.S. after six years on the Tibetan plateau in Western China. They will soon travel to Albania, where they are planning to live and work. ken@ theshackfamily.com 1989 Natalie (Sutter) Clark and her husband Wade moved last Christmas to a small town north of Fort Worth, where the stars are much brighter at night and they sometimes hear cattle in a nearby pasture (music to their citified ears)! 131 Daisey Lane, Justin, TX 76247 wnaeclark@ verizon.net 1991 Cheryl Gonzalez, wife of Armando Gonzalez for 20 years, lost her battle with cancer June 26, 2012, but she won her victory in Jesus. Their oldest child, Elijah, is a freshman at YC and Elizabeth is 16. 107 Northridge Terrace, Henryetta, OK 74437 jesusnarmando@hotmail. com 1995 Keren (Laskie) Adams is an elementary teacher and has a 13-year-old son, Jeshua. 1456 Winters Cir, Bullhead City, AZ 86442 lovejoypeace678@yahoo.com
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1996 Whit and Sheri (Barnes) Mitchell were blessed with their second son, Nolan Matthew, April 4, 2012. Their oldest, Cole (9), is in the fourth grade. 20339 Fairfield Park Way, Cypress, TX 77433 wscmitchell@aol.com 1998 Aaron and Cindy (Dietz) Baker have returned from seven years in the mission field of Vanuatu. They are now living in Missouri with their two daughters, Kaela (8) and Melia (4). Aaron is the minister/evangelist for the Foristell CofC. Cindy is a stay-athome mom and has published two books: “Lord Give Me Pretty Feet” and “March On: My Year in the Vanuatu Bush”. 1001 Roy Ave, Warrenton, MO 63383 aaronandcindy@yahoo.com 1999 Scott and Stacy (Collins) McCall have updated their information. Scott is the assistant director of special education for Putnam City Schools and Stacy is a stay-at-home mom. They have three children: Hunter (7), Briley (4), and Chloe (3). 1220 Silver Oaks Dr, Edmond, OK 73025 stacymmccall@yahoo.com Brad and Tina Reischl welcomed daughter #3 into the family, Brinkley Sophia, May 29, 2012. She joins sisters Macy (7) and Emercyn (5). Brad is owner and president of RL Craft. 1087 Kingwood Rd, Harlan, IA 51537 brad@rlcraft.com 2000 April (Evitt) Cole is a medical transcriptionist with Hancock Regional Hospital, and her husband Brian is a line man for Indy Jet. They have a son, Brady (4). 226 West E St/PO Box 111, Wilkinson, IN 46186 aprilmayjune285@hotmail.com 2001 Craig and Jeri (Bullock) Ford recently relocated to Wyoming from Papua New Guinea. Craig is a missional entrepreneur: www. moneyhelpforchristians.com and www.helpmetravelcheap.com. Jeri is a stay-home mom with their three children: Hannah (7), Caleb (5), and Elizabeth (3). 213 Bent Ave, Cheyenne, WY 82007 jrkfrd@gmail. com, pngfords@gmail.com Lane Hinton is a sales rep for Precision Enterprises, Inc. and has one daughter, Halle (3).6709 S 108th Ct, Apt 301, Omaha, NE 68137 lhinton@gmail.com Matthew and Traci (Doele) Madole are excited about Matthew’s new job as YC’s head girls basketball coach! Traci sells Premier Designs Jewelry and stays home with Drake (3) and Titus (1). Zander (6) is a 1st grader. 614 E 8th St, York, NE 68467 themadoles@gmail.com
Holly Sobetski has returned to the United States after spending five years in Cambodia as an agricultural missionary. She will be spending her year-long furlough in the Nebraska area. 9311 Manderson Circle, Omaha, NE 68134 hsobetski@nmsi. org 2002 Mark and Summer (McNeese) Dickinson celebrated the birth of their son Atticus Fox, July 13, 2012. He joins older brothers Ethan (6), Finn (4), and Beckett (2). Summer was recently hired as an English professor at Mid-Plains Community College and Mark is a case manager at McCook Work Ethic Camp. 3 Club House Dr, McCook, NE 69001 Cindi (Wiese) and Dr. Christian Matthes were married on September 13, 2012. Cindi, a top customer solutions specialist with PayPal, will be joining her husband in Barcelona, Spain, where he is an assistant professor of economics at Universitat Pompeu Fabra, in December. cindi. matthes@gmail.com Erin Stubblefield is a clinician and an assist. professor at Cleveland Chiropractic College. 11407 W 77th Terrace, Shawnee, KS 66214 stubblefield.erin15@gmail.com 2003 Dan and Julie (Barrett ’02) Goodwin moved back to York in 2009 and love being back in their hometown. Dan received the designation of Certified Financial Planner ™ in 2008 and recently obtained the designation of Chartered Life Underwriter®. They have one daughter, Ava (5). 1805 Linden Ave, York, NE 68467 dgoodwin@sammonsrep.com 2004 Titus Robison recently accepted a position with Walsh and Associates as an area consultant for their South-Central Region. He also serves as vice president of development for Foster’s Home. Glenn and Emily (Eckert ’04) Tandy Jr welcomed their second child, Molly Josephine, on May 16, 2012. Olivia (3) loves being a big sister! Glenn is a warehouse coord. and purchasing expert with Abengoa Bioenergy. PO Box 303, Stromsburg, NE 68666 gtandyjr@gmail.com (continued next page)
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2004 ...continued Nicole (Robinson) Vatterrodt and her husband David welcomed their first child, Karis Joy, on Dec. 29, 2011. Nicole continues to work a couple of hours a week as a licensed master social worker but gets to spend most days at home with Karis. 3220 W Fairway Dr, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815 nr1313@ hotmail.com
photo by Shannon Leinen ’07
Competitive Speech Team Launched This Fall
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n their first semester, the York College speech team is preparing to meet the competition head on and fixing their eyes on nationals in May 2013. So far, the ten-person team has competed in one meet this semester. Their second will be in December, followed by six more in the spring. “It’s going really well,” says Shannon Leinen, assistant professor of communication and forensics, who coaches the team. “It’s been a journey for all of us. We are all novices, but we are absorbing so much and improving. We are working hard and getting more competitive.” At the first meet in October, team member Joe Davis, a junior from Bakersfield, Calif., placed 5th in his event and was named novice champion. “I was pleased to make it to finals,” he says. “I have a lot of fun doing this...it has given me new confidence. I am really looking forward to upcoming events.” Davis participated in speech and debate events throughout high school and was a state champion debater in 2010. After graduation, he coached speech and debate at his high school while attending a local junior college. He was excited to be on the ground floor of a speech program at YC. “Mrs. Leinen is incredible as a coach. We Leinen are all learning together,” says Davis. The other members of the speech are Troy Kelly, Nolan Henningson, LeiLani Roman, Bryce Ballard, Lucas Anderson, Megan Eberle, Bailey Kinney, Caroline Seilstad and Jameson Trauger. For more information about the team or about scholarships available, contact Leinen at (402) 366-3805 or sleinen@york.edu.
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2005 Abby (Henderson) Anderson received her PhD in Developmental Biology from Indiana University this summer. See pg. 8 Stephen and Joy (Coehoorn ’04) Colwell welcomed their second child, June Scarlet, on June 20, 2012. Stephen is the director of communications at Brentwood Christian School and Joy is an emergency room RN at St. David’s Medical Center. 1401 London Rd, Round Rock, TX 78664 sportstalk23@hotmail.com Stacie (Lee) Grayson is a PE teacher and coach for Tecumseh Public Schools and her husband Shawn works for Tinker Air Force Base. They have two children Jenny (3) and Andrew (1). 990922 S 3356 Rd, Meeker, OK 74855
2007 Jacob and Michelle (Byrd) Bentley are the proud parents of Michal Monalynn Marie, Sept. 16, 2012. They are houseparents at the Carpenter Place. 1501 N Meridian Ave, Wichita, KS 67203
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bentleycarplace@gmail.com Ben Duncan DC recently moved to Dallas, TX to take a position with Airrosti Rehab Centers as a certified recovery
specialist. BennyED@gmail.com Ben and Natasha (Byrd ’10) Hackett were blessed with the birth of their son Jayden Kenneth, April 28, 2012. Natasha recently took a position with the college as the administrative assistant for academic affairs. 815 East 8th St, York, NE 68467 nhackett@york.edu Rusty S.E. Ridley was promoted to the rank of captain, Sept. 19, 2012. See pg. 9 2011 Mitchel and Nathana (Faddis ’12) Clay recently moved to Arizona. Mitchel is the youth and family minister at the Northwest CofC. More information on their blog: 2becoming1.weebly.com 14221 N 51st Ave #2023, Glendale, AZ 85306 mitchelclay@gmail.com nathana.e.clay@gmail.com
To update your information for the Heritage magazine, go to our website at www.york.edu/alumni and click on Update Your Information or scan the QR code above.
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facebook.com/YorkCollegeNeb @YorkCollegeNeb • YC Connect e-newsletter Subscribe at newsletter@york.edu
Love for Leo
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n September, Campus Minister Tim Lewis came to students with a special request. Leo Miller, longtime YC librarian and archivist, had a need: would students give to help Leo get new hearing aids? Leo, with his white beard and big smile, is a campus fixture, always present in the library to bless students. Now it was their turn to bless this gentle and humble servant. Lewis set a goal of $1,000 for the collection, not knowing how students would respond. Would they meet the challenge? The YC family turned out their pockets to provide. In
The Love for Leo effort organized by Tim Lewis raised well over $1,600 for this gentle YC servant.
the one day of collection, giving surpassed the goal. Lewis reported about $1,600 was given. Leo says he was humbled and so thankful for the love gift. When the check was presented to Leo in chapel, he didn’t have much to say beyond a heart felt “thank you.” Then Lewis asked for everyone in the building whose life had been touched by Leo to please stand. The place erupted in cheers as Leo, with tears in his eyes and a bashful smile on his face, received a rousing standing ovation.
A Campus View — Alice Hackett
Alice Hackett says her experience with the Redox biology research internship at University of Nebraska Lincoln this past summer taught her some important things. She learned how to conduct research in a professional laboratory setting. She learned that her YC education had well equipped her for the work. She also learned she doesn’t want to pursue research as a profession. Her research focused on examining Ht22 cells, a neuronal cell line derived from the mouse hippocampus, (a section of the brain responsible for memory) and discovering how those cells respond to certain stimuli. The research may be important in the development of therapy for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia patients. The senior biology major from Rapid City, South Dakota, says that the prestigious internship was challenging and rewarding, but brought home to her more strongly than ever the calling she feels on her heart: to use her hands to directly
bless those who are hurting. After graduation, Alice plans to do an accelerated nursing degree, or pursue another healthcare profession. “I’m interested in the research part of science,” says the Dean’s List student, “but I know that by being in healthcare, I can serve people and minister to them. I feel like that is what God is calling me to do, help people who are sick.” Alice has spent the previous two summers doing hands-on ministry, domestically and abroad. In the summer of 2010, she interned with an inner city ministry focused on building relationships with street people, rather than merely giving them food or shelter. Describing her experiences, she says, “Jesus wants us to meet people where they are and love them. He loved prostitutes and tax collectors, people who are outcasts from society. He wants us to do the same.” Alice has been a blessing to others on the York College campus in the many activities she participates in. She runs with the cross country team and is a soprano soloist in the concert choir. In the 2011-12 school year, she organized two 5K fundraisers: one dedicated to stopping human trafficking and one to help homeless people in Denver. As she prepares to graduate from York College next spring, her goal is to heed Jesus’ call and work in low-income areas: loving people, serving them, and sharing the Good News. (left) Alice, pictured with “Cheeto”, worked with the homeless population in Denver.
York College
Athletics The men’s cross country team brought home the MCAC Championship while the women finished runner-up.
Cross Country Heads to Nationals!
A Photo by Tyler Cox
fter a tough battle at the conference tournament in Lawrence, Kan., the Panthers were victorious, coming out on top of the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference. The men’s cross country team took first, qualifying them for NAIA Nationals in Vancouver, Wash., on November 17. The women’s team ran exceptionally well, but ended the tournament as conference runner-up, losing the first place spot by just one point. Seniors Kameryn Brewster and Kristin Tuttle, who finished the conference race 4th and 6th respectively, also qualified Brewster for nationals. Brewster, Tuttle, and junior runner Karissa Austin were named All-MCAC. Additionally, Head Coach Justin Carver was named Men’s Cross Country Coach of the Year by the MCAC and runner Matt Gastineau, who placed 4th in the conference race, was named MCAC Men’s Cross Country Freshman of the Year. Gastineau, Levi Swenson, and Warren Lannon were named All-MCAC. “Over the weekend both teams ran well,” says Carver. “I am honored to have coached such great young men and women of Gastineau character and heart…We still have a long way to go but I’m extremely proud and thankful for both teams’ work this season. Both teams set school records that will be hard to beat in the future. They have left their mark at York College. God is good.”
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Raising the Standard The York College wrestling team is excited about their upcoming season as they are ranked 19th in the 2012-13 NAIA Wrestling Coaches’ Top 20 Poll. The following athletes are ranked in their respective weight classes in the North Region of the NAIA: 125—Miles Negley, senior, ranked 5th 133—AJ Jaramillo, junior, 5th 141—Josh Lopez, sophomore, 3rd 149—Nicholas Clarke*, senior, 3rd 157—Robert Eklund*, junior, 2nd 165—Kyle Wichman, senior, 5th *Advanced to All-American round at 2012 Nationals 197—Bradlee Carls*, junior, 2nd Head coach Ramon Diaz and associate head coach Greg Smith took 11 wrestlers to nationals last season. We want to wish the entire program the very best as they begin their quest for the national stage once again.
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Nicholas Clarke along with three other YC wrestlers advanced to the All-American round at nationals last year.
photo by Richard Pruitt Sr.
Reliving Past Glory
Head Coach Brad Fisher with his national championship team at Levitt Field in 1992 and at this year’s Homecoming 20th year reunion.
1992 national soccer champs reunite at Homecoming The homecoming soccer game held special significance this year, as a particular group of alumni watched the Panthers compete and remembered their own glory days on the team on the very same field. Prior to the start of match, the group was recognized: six members of the 1992 men’s soccer team and their head coach, honored for the 20th anniversary of their national championship victory in the National Small College Athletic Association. Veteran team members present included (l-r) John Seaman ’94, Tim Carr ’95, Ricky Pruitt ’95, Chris Luther ’94, Matt Coppinger ’96, Darren Thompson ’96. The team’s head coach, Brad Fisher ’87, traveled from Portland, Ore., to be here for the event. “The 1992 championship team was a joy to know and coach,” says Fisher. “They were a hard-working, competitive, fun and talented group of guys. Leadership came from upperclassmen for the first time in York’s history that year, but it came from the younger guys, too. Each stood up to the challenges when confronted with them. And each found a way to overcome. That was a great group of not just soccer players, but young men. Seeing these guys and seeing how they are living their lives is a greater joy than coaching them.” The teammates that returned enjoyed a chance to catch up with each other and to reminisce about that one magnificent game: After giving up a 3-0 lead the Panthers, under the leadership of Coach Fisher and his two captains
Luther and Pruitt, came back to claim the title, defeating New Hampshire Tech 4-3. Thompson scored two goals, Brian Edmundson scored one, and the final game-winning goal was scored by Coppinger in the second half. Coppinger was recognized as the tournament MVP. “It was good to see Coach Fisher and a few teammates from the ’92 squad,” said Thompson. “After 20 years, it was great to hear different stories from that season. It brought back a lot of fond memories that I will cherish for a long time. It was an honor to be part of that team and being part the York College soccer tradition.” “Being back on campus is always special,” says Fisher. “YC’s continued growth and prosperity is evidence of God’s hand upon it…My message to friends in the Midwest is to continue in your faithfulness to God, come back to Him if you’re away, and never underestimate the influential power God exerts through the most humble of institutions like York College. Yorkies are good salt. And we flavor the world. Being back on campus confirmed this in my mind and heart.” FALL 2012 |
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The “Jeans” of Little Women Jean (Rasp) Schneider ’50 reminisces about the YC drama production that changed her life.
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y father was very ill so I transferred from UNL to York College after my freshman year. That way I could get back to Shelby more often to help out at home. At first, I was not happy. I had given up being a “Tassel,” a pep organization which involved a cute uniform and special seat at the football games. I had also been a part of the UNL drama department and had already won two roles as a freshman. I even got some good reviews in the World Herald and the Nebraska student paper. I missed all that, but got through the first year with fairly good grades. I took a bus home on weekends to see my parents. My next year at YC brought some unexpected bonuses. The social life picked up with the end of the war and a new director had been hired for the drama department. Bill White was a graduate of YC who was just getting started in his career. He was an amazing improvement in the department. For the first play of the season, Bill chose Little Women. I was cast as the youngest March girl, Amy. The other sisters were Barbara Jean Blauch as Beth, Doris Jean Cannon as Jo and Ruth Robson as Meg. Norma Jean Anderson was Bill’s assistant student director. The five of us became fast friends. Our rehearsals were at the city auditorium, which meant we had to walk back to campus, often after dark. Some of the male crew members volunteered to walk us back to the dorm. One of those was Bob Schneider, who offered to walk with me. (I learned later that Bob, who was known as a talented singer and athlete, joined the stage crew because he had a “crush” on me.) His friend, Fred Vorce, walked with Norma Jean. After Little Women ended, our friendship continued and we began to double date. Later on, I married Bob and Norma Jean married Fred. Meanwhile, Barbara Jean, Doris Jean (“Deej”), Norma Jean (“Mudge”)
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and I became frequent companions. We called ourselves the “Jeans.” One day we made a vow to each other that if we had a daughter she would have Jean as her middle name. Thus, years later….Melanie Jean, Pamela Jean, and Susan Jean were named, true to our pledge. The friendship lasted all through college and into our married years. After college, the “Jeans” dispersed, settling in Florida, California, Oregon, and Nebraska. We all attended college reunions and it was as though we had never been apart. All of us are grateful that we were cast in Little Women so long ago. It was the beginning of a friendship that still exists today. Cast member Ruth Robson was not one of the “Jeans” but she too has been a close friend for all these years. The relationship we developed playing Louisa May Alcott’s beloved characters has greatly enriched our lives.
(top left) Doris Jean Canon applies makeup to Clarence Mabon for his role in Little Women. (top right) The “Marches”: (Seated) Hope Howland, Rowena Fahring, Max Allen. (Standing) Barbara Blauch, Doris Jean Canon, Ruth Weston, Jean Rasp. (above) Little Women cast members “Mudge” and Jean Schneider at the Legacy Reunion 2012.
...just around the
Concert Choir Winter Tour, January 4-12
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he York College Concert Choir will be touring five states during the winter break, January 4-12. Dr. Clark Roush and the choir invite you to attend this enjoyable and uplifting experience. January 4 Northside CofC—Wichita, KS / January 6 Eastside CofC—Colorado Springs, CO / January 6 Bear Valley CofC—Denver, CO / January 7 Casper CofC—Casper, WY / January 8 Northern Hills CofC—Spearfish, SD / January 9 Sioux Falls CofC—Sioux Falls, SD / January 10 Woodbury CofC—Woodbury, MN / January 11 Richfield CofC—Richfield, MN.
Spring HS Days/Songfest, April 4-7
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his is a great time to see many aspects of YC: stay in a residence hall, eat in the caf, visit classes and attend the academic fair. Seniors who have been accepted can pre-enroll for the fall semester. Parents of current and prospective students are invited to a free brunch on Saturday. The weekend will include performances by the Concert Choir, Traveling Children’s Theatre, and of course the 36th Annual Songfest! Tickets for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday Songfest performances are $10—but all the other activities this weekend are FREE!
RoundUp, May 19-25
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oundUp is a little bit Bible camp, a little bit college, and a whole lot of fun! It’s a week-long retreat for “Golden Agers” hosted on the York College campus. The theme of RoundUp 2013 is “The American Revolution”, featuring lectures by Tim McNeese, associate professor of history. For registration information, contact Gayle Good at gagood@york.edu or (402) 363-5621.
Soul Quest, June 9-15
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ork College is excited about hosting its 33rd annual camp for middle school and high school students this summer. Soul Quest is for 6th-12th grade campers and features incredible worship times, exciting classes and activities, and awesome friendships with teens from across the country. As we near spring break and begin to put a schedule together, visit our camp website at www.york.edu/soulquest to see what director Tim Lewis has planned.
More Upcoming Special Events in 2013 Elijah, April 28
The York College Concert Choir has been invited to perform Mendelssohn’s Elijah with Abendmusik: Lincoln. The performance will include a professional orchestra, choir, and soloists.
York College Work Days, July 18-20
Join alumni and friends on the YC campus for the 5th annual YC Work Days. Whatever your level of skill, we will be happy to have you participate. Please contact Scott Eckman at s.eckman@juno.com if you would like to be involved.
Homecoming, October 11-13 Don’t forget to check the calendar on the back cover for other important dates.
Looking for a new direction? YC now offers online bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Learn more at http://online.york.edu.
COMING EVENTS December 6-9 Cocoa and Carols 10-12 Final Examinations January 4-12 Concert Choir Winter Tour 14 Classes Begin February 8 Shine Retreat 28 Spring Play Opening Night March 9-17 April 5-7 18 28
Spring Break Spring High School Days (Songfest : April 4 - 6, 7:30 p.m.) All College Banquet Concert Choir - Elijah (Lincoln, NE)
May 4 19-25
Bob DeHart ’96 captures a great Panther smile from Thornton, CO sophomore Molly Bartee.
Commencement RoundUp
June 9-15
Soul Quest
July 18-20
York College Work Days
August 21-25 26
New Student Orientation Classes Begin