RED & WHITE CHEER
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Give the gift of Bradley pride this holiday season. Because nothing warms the heart like red and white.
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BACK TO THE FUTURE
Bradley’s 13th president shares his vision for growing enrollment by enhancing the student experience — through campus improvements and a stronger “One Bradley” culture that unites the entire community around a shared commitment to student success.
FEATURES
12
KEEPING COUNT
At Bradey, Karel Janeček ’97 built upon his affinity for math and finance and broke some rules along the way. From the blackjack table to the Czech presidency, there’s no equation he’s afraid of solving.
Lauren Niemiera ’12 MA ’13 discovered her passion for officiating during an NBA Summer League internship—and now thrives as an NCAA referee, combining athleticism, precision, and lifelong learning on the court.
View the magazine in digital format at bradley.edu/magazine
Editor
Emily Potts ’93
Staff Writers
Jenevieve Rowley-Davis Libby Derry
Adam Morris
Brand Manager & Designer
Heidi Wessler ’04
Photographer Pat Nagel
ADMINISTRATION
President James E. Shadid ’79
Vice President for Enrollment, Marketing & Communications Dr. Angie Cooksy ’07
Assistant Vice President for Marketing & Communications Ben Jedd ’01
Interim Vice President for Advancement
Charlie Roy ’05
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Longtime Bradley supporters Earl and Kay Harbaugh continue their legacy of impact—this time by advancing nursing education through hands-on innovation in the classroom.
© Bradley University 2025. Bradley magazine is published twice a year by Bradley University for alumni, faculty, staff, parents of students and other friends of the university. Bradley University is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination and the promotion of equal opportunities for all persons regardless of age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status. The university is committed to compliance with all applicable laws regarding non-discrimination, harassment and affirmative action.
From the President
It’s a remarkable time to be at Bradley. Everywhere you look, there is momentum—new leadership stepping forward (page 5), inspiring community events like TEDxBradley University and Finding Titanic with Dr. Robert Ballard (page 6), and the energy of a campus that is excelling and evolving. At our annual Founder’s Day celebration, we honored four new Centurions and recognized the many alumni, faculty, and staff who continue to go above and beyond for Bradley (page 8).
This year’s Homecoming weekend was a perfect example of the Bradley spirit (page 10-11). From the Red and White Scrimmage featuring our Men’s and Women’s basketball teams to a lively volleyball match, open houses, an alumni art exhibition, and a packed tailgate before the Men’s soccer game at Shea Stadium—it was a weekend full of pride, connection, and celebration.
In this issue, you will meet alumni who exemplify what it means to use a Bradley education to make a difference. Karel Janeček ’97, a mathematician and finance expert from the Czech Republic, took his passion for voter integrity and reform all the way to his country’s presidential race (page 12). Lauren Niemiera ’12, MA ’13, a former double athlete turned NCAA official, shares how alumni connections shaped her journey and opened doors to opportunities she hadn’t imagined as a student (page 22).
You will also read about Earl and Kay Harbaugh’s incredible gift to our nursing program—an investment that gives Bradley students a clear advantage from day one (page 27). Their philosophy to educate, empower, and transform beautifully reflects the mission of this university and the vision of our founder, Lydia Moss Bradley.
And finally, I had the opportunity to sit down for a conversation about where Bradley is headed—how we can continue building on Mrs. Bradley’s vision to strengthen enrollment, elevate the student experience, and ensure Bradley remains a place where determination drives success, just as it did for all of us (page 16).
Thank you for being part of this community and for all the ways you continue to champion Bradley. Together, we are shaping a future worthy of our proud past.
Sincerely,
James E. Shadid ’79 President, Bradley University
New and Familiar Leadership
Following nearly 30 years in the business sector, Garrett Williams ’92 has returned to Bradley as Chief Operations Officer. Williams has been closely connected to the University for more than three decades through service on the Fraternity Alumni Board and House Corporation, the Pre-Law Advisory Committee, the Institute for Principled Leadership Board, and as president of the Bradley University Alumni Association. He also most recently served as a member of the Board of Trustees. As COO, he is focused on optimizing people, processes, and technology to support faculty and staff in delivering a premier student experience and fostering a unified culture at Bradley.
Jeffrey Wanko is the new dean of the College of Education and Health Sciences. “I want to let prospective students know about the excellent faculty and programs we have here. Bradley has so much to offer, and finding the best students for our programs is a high priority for me,” Wanko said, while also mentioning his desire to advocate for mentorship and professional growth. Wanko comes to Bradley from Miami University (Ohio), where he served as associate provost, associate dean for undergraduate affairs in the College of Education, Health and Society and chair of the Department of Teacher Education.
After some time as interim dean, Ethan Ham is now dean of the Slane College of Communication and Fine Arts. Ham also emphasized the student experience when discussing his top priorities. “It’s all about making sure our students have the best possible experiences,” he said. “That can mean big things—like the new rotating stage for our theatre productions or a renovated band practice room—or opportunities that take students beyond campus, like an art history trip to Washington, D.C. or paid internships working on a realworld Air Force project.”
Bradley Launches New Three-Year Pathways
Beginning this fall, undergraduate students enrolled in select programs can choose an accelerated path to graduation by working closely with their academic advisor and utilizing expanded summer and January term offerings. By participating in this accelerated track, students can save on living expenses and fees, and enter the workforce a year earlier.
The programs available span all five colleges, including majors like Civil Engineering, Marketing, Sports Communication, and Early Childhood Education.
These new pathways allow students to save both time
These new pathways allow students to save both time and cost while still receiving a comprehensive Bradley education,” said Bradley President James Shadid. “It’s another example of how we are innovating to meet the needs of today’s students while preparing them for success beyond graduation.”
The
Sandwich
King Anoints Renovated Dining Hall
September marked the grand reopening of Bradley’s newly renovated Williams Dining Hall, unveiling a modern space designed to better serve students’ needs. The updated facility features expanded food stations, fresh-cooked meal options, and flexible seating, transforming the dining experience and replacing outdated infrastructure.
The celebration also brought Bradley alumnus and celebrity chef Jeff Mauro ’00, known to many as the “Sandwich King,” back to campus. He shared his new signature “Home of Da Brave” sandwich with students, spotlighting the hall’s new focus on fresh, high-quality food.
Discovery and Dialogue
This fall, Bradley University hosted two remarkable gatherings. On Sept. 17, Bradley hosted its second annual TEDxBradley University. Themed around Advancing Societal Priorities, faculty, alumni, and community leaders shared thought-provoking talks on issues that touch every corner of society—women’s health, education that inspires mindset change, building institutional trust, and harnessing technology responsibly.
On Sept. 25, the campus welcomed famed oceanographer Dr. Robert Ballard—the man who discovered the wreck of the RMS Titanic. As part of the new OLLI Voices & Visionaries Distinguished Speaker Series, Ballard captivated the audience with tales of his secret Cold War mission and his reflections on deep-sea exploration, curiosity, and persistence. The event was timed alongside the Peoria Riverfront Museum’s debut of “Finding Titanic: The Secret Mission”, an exhibit celebrating Ballard’s achievements, capped with a Titanic film screening scored live by the Peoria Symphony Orchestra.
From the mysteries of the ocean floor to the pressing priorities of our time, these two events reflected Bradley’s enduring mission to connect people with ideas that transform perspectives, inspire action, and shape a better future.
BRADLEY RANKINGS
Bradley has once again been ranked among the Top 200 universities in the nation in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings. Most notably, Bradley climbed more than 60 spots in U.S. News’ social mobility ranking, now #125 nationally—highlighting how well we help students graduate, advance in their careers, and improve their quality of life.
Bradley was also recognized in The Princeton Review’s highly respected The Best 391 Colleges. In addition to
making the general list in the 2026 edition, Bradley is featured in distinguished categories, including Best Value Colleges, Best Midwest Colleges, and Best Green Colleges.
In the 2026 Wall Street Journal/College Pulse Best Colleges in the U.S. rankings, Bradley placed No. 115 out of 584 colleges and universities nationwide, earning a spot in the top 20% of all ranked institutions.
FOUNDER’S DAY
OCTOBER 3, 2025
Founder’s Day recognizes and celebrates university staff, faculty, alumni and friends of the university who have carried on the traditions of Lydia Moss Bradley. These awards honor their excellence and success for various achievements.
Centurion Society Inductees
David Burritt ’77
A former Bradley baseball standout, Burritt spent 32 years at Caterpillar before becoming President and CEO of U.S. Steel in 2017. He led the company through transformative milestones, including the Big River Steel acquisition. A Lockheed Martin board member, he credits Bradley with shaping his leadership.
Scott Racine ’72
Racine built a trailblazing career in tax law, advising icons like Bob Dylan and Elton John as well as corporations such as Goldman Sachs and Nike. Former head of Akin Gump’s Los Angeles tax department, he has also given generously of his time and resources to Bradley. For his impact, Racine also received the Distinguished Alumni Award.
David Ulmer ’69
Ulmer spent 32 years shaping aviation before co-founding JetBlue Airways, where he helped secure $140 million in startup capital and served as vice president of planning. Ulmer has generously supported an annual economics scholarship, ensuring future Bradley students have access to the same analytical foundation that contributed to his success.
Tana Utley ’86
Utley built a remarkable 38-year career at Caterpillar, retiring as Vice President of Large Power Systems after 15 years as a corporate officer. While serving as Chief Technology Officer, she led the company’s largest-ever R&D effort, slashing diesel emissions by 98%. An MIT graduate, Trustee, and honorary doctorate recipient, she remains a passionate Bradley supporter.
Achievement Award Winners
Caleb Aeschliman ’16 Outstanding Young Graduate Award
Dr. Elmo E. Roach, Professor of History, Emeritus Lydia Moss Bradley Award
Scott Racine ’72 Distinguished Alumni Award
Dr. Lavanya Mandava, Assistant Professor, Computer Science and Information Systems
First-year Faculty Award (2024)
Aria Dines, Assistant Professor, Interactive Media Animation First-year Faculty Award (2025)
Family & Consumer Sciences Department
Advance BU Award for Inclusive Excellence
Turner School of Entrepreneurship & Innovation
William Rainey Harper Award for Departmental Excellence
Dr. Anant Deshwal, Assistant Professor, Biology
Caterpillar Faculty Achievement Award for Scholarship
Dr. Kate Lipovsky, Assistant Professor, Biology
Caterpillar Faculty Achievement Award for Teaching
Heather Brammeier, Professor, Painting
Samuel Rothberg Professional Excellence Award
Dr. James Muncy, Professor, Marketing Putnam Award for Excellence in Teaching
Suzanne Thompson, Administrative Services Coordinator for the Caterpillar College of Engineering and the Foster College of Business
Francis C. Mergen Award
Michelle Riggio Rarick, Executive Director of Continuing Education and Professional Development Staff Excellence Award
Ching Zedric, Digital Media Preservationist in Special Collections Staff Excellence Award
Staff Excellence Award Past Recipients: 2024 David Trillizio and Jamie Glenzinski; 2023 Anne Hollis and Kelly Welch; 2022 David Scuffham and Dawn Mulligan; 2021 Thomas Kahila and Martha Schmitt; 2020 Belinda Daly and Maureen Kelly; 2019 Jeanne Clayton and Becky Snyder; 2018 Pat Campbell, Karla Layne, and Julie Coffey
Into the Woods, the first full musical out of Bradley’s Theatre department since 2017, had many of the students working behind the scenes pushing their creative limits (and developing great portfolio fodder along the way).
“The scale of the show alone is daunting,” explained senior Theatre Arts major Jaret Turner, who’s working on props. “It’s the biggest cast and crew I have ever worked with, and Sondheim musicals have a lot of complexity. There are over 100 unique props.”
“I originally came to Bradley as an Engineering student with no prior experience working in theatre,” Turner said. “The Theatre department has been so welcoming and really allowed me to grow. In my second semester, I did props for The Three Musketeers, which was a lot of fun and a great learning opportunity.”
Like Turner, senior Theatre Arts major Miranda Fisher learned the ropes at Bradley through an earlier show—she served as stage manager for John Proctor is the Villain. Having transferred to Bradley earlier that year, it was a welcome, if intense, experience.
A behind-the-scenes look at pre-production for the Theatre department’s fall musical
BY JENEVIEVE ROWLEY-DAVIS
The experience has already proven impactful. “This past summer, I interned with the Illinois Shakespeare Festival, and I never actually applied,” Fisher said. “A respondent from the festival came to John Proctor and we got to talking. When he needed an extra person at the festival, he reached out to me.”
As stage manager for Into the Woods, Fisher coordinates all practical and technical aspects of the production from start to finish, including coordinating designers, running rehearsals, keeping organized notes, and running the show.
“I am also in charge of every technical change that happens during the show—I call the cues every time the lights change, the turntable moves, a sound gets played, or a chair or prop enters or leaves the stage,” Fisher said. The show has about 479 separate cues.
“This production has allowed me to demonstrate my organizational skills to a crazy level, as well as show off my interpersonal and managerial skills,” she explained. “Being in charge of so many people can be hard, but this process has allowed me to really spread my wings.”
“At Bradley, we work at a high professional level, so making that jump has been challenging and rewarding,” Fisher said. “It is a lot of work, but I know this is pretty close to how Broadway or Las Vegas run their shows.”
Keeping Count
BY JENEVIEVE ROWLEY-DAVIS
From cards to stocks to votes, Karel Janeček ’97 finds beauty in the numbers.
W hen Karel Janeček ’97 chose to run for the 2023 presidential election in the Czech Republic, it was in service of institutional change at a grand scale. In a world rife with corruption, he remained obsessed with finding an answer to his greatest question: “Can we, in a divided world, protect freedom of speech and open our hearts to mutual respect and understanding?”
Never one for the small questions, Janeček has come a long way from spiking volleyballs for the Bradley University men’s volleyball team.
BETTING ON BRADLEY
“It was early after the Velvet Revolution in Czechoslovakia in 1989, and I was eager to visit the United States, a country of freedom,” Janeček reminisced. “I was a mathematician with a strong interest in finance, and I would already imagine that my future career might be connected to financial markets.”
Janeček became aware of Bradley after meeting Dr. Arlyn R. Rubash, a finance professor from Bradley visiting Prague. The two hit it off, and Janeček determined Bradley would be a great home for his continued development. Dr. Rubash took Janeček under his wing at BU and helped him acclimate to life in the U.S.
Not long after settling in, one of Janeček’s peers introduced him to counting cards for money at the blackjack table, which he tested out at the Par-A-Dice riverboat casino.
“To verify that one could systematically (and mathematically) win at a casino, I began writing software based on Monte Carlo simulations. After about six months, I completed the first working version and called it Statistical Blackjack Analyzer (SBA).”
Suddenly an expert in blackjack betting optimization, it’s no surprise Janeček is no longer welcome to play in Vegas.
Though his wallet was heavier than ever before, he stuck to his studies and obtained his MBA from Bradley in 1997. A year later, he graduated from the Faculty of Mathematics and Physics at Charles University in Prague with a degree in probability theory and mathematical statistics. While also building up his skills as a mathematical analyst for a hedge fund, he would go on to receive a Ph.D. in mathematical finance from Carnegie-Mellon University in 2004.
THE PURSUIT OF JUSTICE, THE FIGHT FOR FAIRNESS
As a student, Janeček founded RSJ Algorithmic Trading, which trades derivatives and manages investments. While still at RSJ, he started different endowments to support science, research, and anti-corruption, with the latter eventually becoming a full-time obsession. For Janeček, the shift from private success to public responsibility came gradually.
“As a child, I was always keen on justice and fairness,” Janeček recalled. “When I became more interested in the situation in the Czech Republic, I became very upset about corruption and how unfair the situation is. If I can, I try to change things I don’t like.”
In 2013, Transparency International’s Global Corruption Barometer found widespread reports of corruption,
extortion, and bribery across business, politics, and policing. Fast forward to the same report in 2021 and 69% of Czech citizens say their government is doing a bad job fighting corruption.
“After starting The Anti-Corruption Endowment, I realized that the core of society’s problems are the people who lead society,” Janeček said.
He noticed that the current voting system supported the success of corrupt politicians, so he set out to build a new one. His first iteration for a voting system against corruption came in January 2012, and it was primarily centered around the “minus vote,” or a vote against one of the several available candidates.
Following the math down an anticorruption rabbit hole, 15 months later, Janeček introduced D21. This new revision was based primarily around the idea that each voter can cast more votes than the number of winning candidates. By mathematically emphasizing the importance of consensus, Janeček aimed to level the playing field for a different, more moderate kind of political candidate.
“[The moderate candidates] usually have a disadvantage, because they are not that aggressive,” he said. “With the current political voting system, it is very often advantageous to lie, to be a manipulator, to be populous, to be an extremist. D21 gives the advantage to those people who are consensual and who do not want to suppress society.”
CHANGE, AT SCALE
Instituting a new voting system is no small task. Sometimes, the change is so big that it has to come from within. So, Janeček decided to run for president.
The idea arose from the political strife that came amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “I could see that the strategy of the power structure was scaring people, separating people, and then applying power.”
His reasons for running were clear. “I could talk to people,” he said. “I’d have influence and I could initiate changes. The Czech president does not have much executive power, but they have great influence among the Czech people. I wanted to use the presidential office to function as a catalyst of communication.”
For Janeček, a focus on reform and grassroots change—not power— differentiated his candidacy from that of his opponents.
Ultimately, Janeček’s candidacy would end in defeat. In hindsight, he admits the international political atmosphere has become too volatile for a plan like his to work, saying “It would’ve been possible in a calm situation, not in the extremes which are happening right now.”
However, Janeček’s fight against corruption didn’t end with his candidacy. Though D21 hasn’t been implemented in any major elections yet, it has been used in various Czech and Slovak municipalities (and one in New York City) to help allocate public funds.
Still driven by the next chapter of human civilization, Janeček pushes for systemic change and growth through the Karel Janeček Foundation. For those in the Bradley family looking to advocate for a better future, he offers the following advice: “Find in yourself the ability to unite rational thinking with your intuition and emotions to achieve great synergy in your potential, creativity and happiness.”
President Shadid’s Bradley is Rooted in Tradition but Built for Tomorrow Back to the Future
BY EMILY POTTS
CONFIDENT. CAPABLE. HONEST.
Those three words perfectly capture Bradley University’s 13th president, James Shadid. A former U.S. District Judge, Shadid carries himself with the same integrity and conviction that guided him in the courtroom. He speaks often of Lydia Moss Bradley—“Mrs. Bradley,” as he respectfully calls her—whose vision and values continue to shape the university he now leads. Shadid believes those founding ideals aren’t just part of Bradley’s past; they’re the key to its future.
“It’s important for us to stay connected to our traditions, our roots, and our values—and those values go all the way back to 1897,” Shadid said. “Mrs. Bradley wanted this university to attract young people who are independent, hardworking, resilient, and determined. People who want to make a difference in their communities. When we share that message today, I think young people hear it and think, ‘They’re talking about me.’ That’s exactly the kind of student Bradley was built for.”
Shadid’s years on the bench have more than prepared him to lead in higher education. “The skills I developed as a judge translate directly to this role,” he said. “It’s about keeping an open mind, ensuring every stakeholder has an equal opportunity to be heard, focusing on the facts that truly matter, and exercising sound judgment to reach a well-reasoned decision. Then, it’s about communicating that decision clearly and transparently. Every ruling I made carried my signature—there was never any question about accountability. Those same principles guide me here at Bradley.”
He also pointed out one stark difference, and the main reason he loves this job. “As a federal judge, I’d meet young people on a daily basis who were making poor decisions in their lives and it’s refreshing and impactful to walk around this campus and see so many young people making good decisions for themselves and their futures.”
A “ONE BRADLEY” CULTURE & MISSION
President Shadid frequently speaks about his vision of “One Bradley,” where everyone on campus comes together with a shared purpose: Elevating the student experience.
But “One Bradley” isn’t just a catchphrase he coined—it’s a guiding principle that has stayed with him since his days as a Bradley Brave.
“When I arrived here as a freshman, I was just happy to be on the baseball team. After one of our early practices, Coach (Chuck) Buescher was handing out uniforms, and he held one up and pointed out that it just said ‘Bradley,’ nothing else. Bradley was who we were. He wanted us to understand that how we conduct ourselves, on and off the field, represents the university,” Shadid explained. “That was imprinted in my mind at that time, that this is who we are.”
Fast forward to today, that mantra still holds up. “There are a lot of people who make up the successes of this campus. But if we do this in isolation, or if we do this only to protect our own turf, we cannot be as successful as we need to be. I want us to be One Bradley, all working in the same direction. That doesn’t mean we have to agree on everything, but we have to agree on one thing: Bradley students and their experience here come first. They are the reason Bradley exists, and they need to continue to be our main focus.”
MOVING THE UNIVERSITY FORWARD
Increasing enrollment is President Shadid’s top priority, and it’s a shared mission for the entire campus community. To drive that effort, he’s formed a Strategic Enrollment Committee made up of dedicated faculty and staff. Together, they’re mapping out a three-year plan to strengthen Bradley’s recruitment and enrollment strategies and ensure more students have the opportunity to call Bradley home.
Part of that strategy is focused on the student experience, both inside and outside the classroom, and Shadid has several initiatives in the works to enhance student life on campus.
“We recently modernized and expanded Williams Dining Hall with enhanced food options and an inviting space with new furnishings, giving students a comfortable space to socialize and study,” he said. “Next, we’re going to update the public spaces in University Hall, thanks in part to a $2 million State Grant combined with support from our endowment.”
As part of a larger rollout, and because Shadid believes outdoor spaces matter as much as indoor, new recreational areas are being added to campus. “Starting in the spring, we’re converting the gravel lot next to the Markin Center into a vibrant outdoor space with pickleball courts, sand volleyball, and bags,” he explained.
“All of these projects, and everything I will work for in the future, are to create a premiere student experience that is second to none.”
“We’re finally creating a true front door to campus— something Bradley’s never really had. This new, beautifully landscaped gateway will welcome students, families, alumni, and guests, and connect campus more closely with the community. It’s also a chance to partner with City Hall to bring even more life and energy to Main Street, giving our students and neighbors a vibrant place to gather right outside campus,” Shadid said.
“All of these projects, and everything I will work for in the future, are to create a premiere student experience that is second to none.”
But he’s quick to remind us where it all began. “Everything accomplished on this campus, from day one, has been fueled by a gift. Every inspiration, every building, every new program, every enhancement to the student experience traces back to Mrs. Bradley—donating land and building Bradley Hall,” he explained.
“Since then, every step forward has relied on the generosity of individuals and groups. We have a responsibility to continue that legacy for the young people who entrust us with four years of their lives, helping to develop them into well-rounded individuals.”
New seating in Williams Dining Hall.
University Hall rendering includes an outdoor patio.
Outdoor space with pickleball courts, sand volleyball, and bags.
Williams Dining Hall ribbon cutting ceremony, Sept. 11.
University Hall rendering includes new study and lounge areas.
Bradley gateway at the intersection of Main and University Streets.
ALUMNI’S ROLE – A SHARED EXPERIENCE
Another key part of Bradley’s enrollment strategy is connecting with alumni and inviting them to share their stories and inspire the next generation of Braves.
President Shadid is confident that nearly every Bradley graduate carries fond memories of their time on the Hilltop. “We have around 70,000 living alumni, and they are our greatest asset and legacy,” he said. “I want to connect with as many as possible, to hear how their Bradley experience set them up for success and the lifelong relationships they’ve built—whether it’s with a professor who still checks in, or the friends and partners they met here. No one knows the Bradley experience better than our alumni, and together, we can share those stories to inspire future students.”
Shadid has been hitting the road, meeting alumni where they are, in Denver, Dallas, Chicago, and St. Louis, and connecting online with fraternity alumni. “I’m appreciative of the positive energy from everyone who shows up— whether in-person or virtually—to engage and support our mission,” he said.
One thing stands out in every conversation: Alumni remember the faculty who guided them, often before they even knew they needed guidance. “People enter our lives and mentor us, counsel us, open doors, and put in a good word. Those are the moments I carry from Bradley, and that’s why it’s so important for us to do the same for others.”
He remembers one moment from his sophomore year that perfectly captures that spirit. “The men’s basketball coach, Joe Stowell called me into his office and said, ‘Whittier Grade School needs a sixth-grade basketball coach, and I told the principal you’d do it. He’s waiting for you.’ I said, ‘I’m not sure I should be coaching basketball,’” Shadid recalled with a laugh. “He handed me a clipboard with two plays. ‘This is all you need. Run these, make sure everyone plays, and make sure the kids have fun. You’ll be fine.’ And just like that, I was the sixth-grade basketball coach at Whittier for a year.”
Coach Stowell saw something in Shadid that he didn’t see in himself at the time. Moments like that—unexpected, challenging, and full of support—are what make Bradley unique. They’re possible because of the relationships that define this campus and the community that surrounds it.
Go Bradley! Go Bradley!
A FAMILY AFFAIR
This shared Bradley experience is part of Shadid’s DNA, judging by the number of family members who are Braves. At last count, 22 including his brother, nieces, nephews, his son, cousins, and second cousins, the university’s red thread runs deep. “I’ve lost track,” he admitted with a laugh. “It’s become a family tradition.”
At the heart of it all is his immediate family—his wife, Jane; their three children, Jim (Anne), Joe (Lauren), and Maggie (Grant); and now two grandsons, Arthur Alan Bosnich and James Edward Shadid III, born just six weeks apart (the latter sharing a birthday with his grandfather). “Jane understands how important Bradley is to me,” he said. “She knows how vital Bradley is to our students, to Peoria, and to our future.”
When the pace allows, he and Jane enjoy simple pleasures— playing gin rummy, visiting their children, walking together, and catching up with longtime friends. “We have a very active life,” he said with a smile. “And this job added a lot more activity to it.”
As he looks toward the future, Shadid’s focus remains on the people who make Bradley special. “I hope that when people look back on this chapter, they’ll say Bradley always put students first, and in doing so, we stayed true to our mission, our traditions, our roots, and our values by going back to the future with the same vision and purpose Mrs. Bradley set for us,” Shadid said.
“That’s how I’d like to be remembered—that we honored our foundation by putting students at the heart of everything we do.”
“That’s how I’d like to be remembered—that we honored our foundation by putting students at the heart of everything we do.”
Photo: Joe Pinchin
BY EMILY POTTS
Calling the Shots
How Lauren Niemiera’s Bradley Connections Landed
Her on the Court
When Lauren Niemiera ’12 MA ’13 interned at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas as a Bradley student in 2012, she thought she was on the path to a career in public relations or game operations. What she didn’t expect was to walk out with a completely different calling.
“I went to Las Vegas thinking I’d be working behind the scenes for an NBA team,” she remembered. “Instead, I left deciding to give refereeing a try.”
FINDING HER PATH AT BRADLEY
A natural athlete, Niemiera grew up in the Chicago suburbs playing many sports including basketball, softball, and golf. Her first job was at a golf course, but basketball always had her heart. Bradley recruited her for the women’s basketball team on a full scholarship, but when she arrived on campus, she didn’t know what she wanted to pursue as a major. Her father urged her to follow in his footsteps and study accounting, but “I was terrible at it,” she said, laughing.
Fortunately, Bradley had just started the Sports Communication program—the spark she needed to see her passion for sports as a career. Niemiera double-majored in sports communication and Spanish, eventually earning her master’s in leadership and human service administration. Along the way, she joined Bradley’s golf team becoming the first twosport athlete since 2006, with Jenny Van Kirk ’10
Photos: Bob Hunt
CONNECTIONS THAT PAID OFF
Niemiera credits her professors and mentors at Bradley for pushing her to connect with alumni and guest speakers. “They drilled into me the importance of networking. I still send handwritten thank-yous, because that’s how I got my start.”
One of those connections—alumna Laura Herlovitch ’79—helped her land the NBA Summer League internship. Niemiera worked in game operations, helping run on-court promotions and logistics during breaks. But what caught her eye was happening between the whistles. NBA referees were being evaluated courtside, and Niemiera noticed the intensity of their preparation.
An NBA official encouraged her to give officiating a shot. At first, she dismissed the idea—until she met Lauren Holtkamp-Sterling, soon to be hired as the NBA’s third full-time female official. “After speaking with her, I thought, ‘Maybe this isn’t so crazy.’”
Back on campus, Niemiera got her start refereeing intramural games. Soon after, she became certified through the Illinois High School Association (IHSA), working everything from fifth-grade games in noisy gyms to varsity high school matchups.
“I went from watching NBA referees courtside to calling traveling violations for 12-year-olds,” she laughed. “But every game was a classroom.”
THE TOUGHEST JOB SHE’S EVER LOVED
After graduation Niemiera worked in public relations with the WNBA’s Chicago Sky, while honing her officiating chops. In 2016, her persistence paid off when she was recruited to the NBA’s inaugural Referee Development Program, designed to help former players transition to professional referees.
Since then, Niemiera has officiated Division I women’s basketball in 15 different conferences, spent five years in the NBA G League, and earned FIBA certification that has taken her to international competitions in South America, Europe and Asia. “Standing on the court in China with teams from all over the world, I thought, ‘This is bigger than basketball,’” she said.
Refereeing at an elite level is like being a professional athlete. Niemiera routinely runs up to six miles per game with no breaks On top of the physical demands are the mental ones: mastering the rulebook, reviewing game film, and handling the scrutiny of coaches, players, and fans.
“We run nonstop for two hours, while being evaluated on every call,” she said. “It’s the most exhausting job I’ve ever loved.”
The lifestyle is grueling, too. “Refereeing is 50% basketball and 50% logistics. You become a professional traveler,” Niemiera explained. “Most days start with an early morning flight and end in a hotel room with game film. Then you do it all over the next day in a different city.”
Demanding schedule aside, Niemiera stressed the importance of being locked in on game day because so many people are
Photo: Charles Cherney
Photo: Trenton Miller
relying on her performance. “Regardless of where a team stands in the rankings or what conference they’re in, every single game is important to those players, their parents, and the fans,” she explained. “As referees, we take our jobs very seriously. We study the rulebook and review our calls after each game so we’re always evolving and learning.”
In 2024, Niemiera reached a career milestone when she was selected as a standby referee for the NCAA Tournament. “Hearing I’d been selected was validation that the grind was worth it,” she said. “Now the goal is to be on the floor.”
Her next goal: Officiating the 2028 Olympic games in Los Angeles.
PAYING IT FORWARD
Because her Bradley connections opened so many doors for her—like working at the Chicago Bears Training Camp (thanks to Bradley alum Matt Black ’06) and the NBA Summer League internship through Herlovitch—Niemiera has made it a priority to do the same. She hired Bradley interns while working with the Chicago Sky and spoke at the Charley Steiner Symposium in 2018, delivering her talk virtually from an airport terminal during a weather delay.
She especially values opportunities to inspire young women to pursue careers in professional sports. “I would have loved to know earlier that you can make a career officiating basketball games,” she said.
Off the court, she teaches at Five Iron Golf Chicago, where she has built a following of women looking to level the field in a maledominated sport. “Golf has always been about opening doors,” Niemera said. One of her clients sought her out specifically for this reason.
“A female executive hired me to teach her golf because she was tired of missing out while her male colleagues spent hours on the course with clients,” she explained. “She started as a complete beginner, but with guidance—from choosing clubs to learning to swing—she ended up falling in love with the sport and winning the longest drive at her first corporate outing.”
EMBRACING THE UNEXPECTED
Whether it’s officiating on the hardwood or coaching on the fairway, Niemiera approaches every opportunity with the same mindset: Show up prepared, stay resilient, and embrace the unexpected. “Every game and every lesson is equally important,” she said. “You never know who’s watching.”
And if her journey proves anything, it’s this: Sometimes the best opportunities are the ones you never saw coming.
Photo: NBAE/GettyImages
Photo: Billy Stahls
UPCOMING EVENTS
Meet President Shadid
Dec. 4 | 6 - 8 p.m. | Hotel Vin, Grapevine, Texas
Join us for a special gathering of Dallas–area alumni and friends to meet Bradley University’s 13th president, James Shadid ’79. BUBAA Jingle & Mingle
Dec. 13 | 2 - 5 p.m. | 115 Bourbon Street, Merrionette Park, Illinois
Celebrate the season with the Black Alumni Alliance at their annual holiday party featuring food, music, festive sweaters, and fun.
December Graduate Reception
Dec. 19 | 4 - 6 p.m. | Hayden-Clark Alumni Center, Peplow Pavilion
Graduates and families are invited to celebrate with refreshments, appetizers, and a warm welcome to our Alumni community.
Fall Commencement
Dec. 20 | 9:30 a.m. | Renaissance Coliseum
Celebrate the achievements of Bradley’s newest graduates during the university’s fall commencement ceremony.
48th McCord Lecture with Karel Janeček ‘97
Feb. 3, 2026 | 12 - 1 p.m. | Hayden-Clark Alumni Center, Peplow Pavilion
Czech billionaire and RSJ Trading founder Karel Janeček ’97 returns to Bradley as the featured speaker. Read more about him on page 12.
Career Fair Alumni Breakfast
Feb. 12, 2026 | 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. | Renaissance Coliseum
Alumni who are interested in hiring Bradley students for jobs and internships are invited to join students and campus partners for breakfast during Bradley’s Spring Career Fair.
Student Aide Reunion
Feb. 21, 2026 | Hayden-Clark Alumni Center, Peplow Pavilion
A reunion for alumni who once served as Student Aides for Orientation with a gathering before or after the Men’s Basketball game versus Illinois State. Men’s Basketball at UIC – Pregame Event
Feb. 24, 2026 | 5-7 p.m. The Bandit, Chicago Alumni and friends are invited to gather before the Bradley–UIC matchup.
Arch Madness – St. Louis
March 5 - 8, 2026 | Ballpark Village, St. Louis, Missouri
Alumni and fans are invited to gather at Ballpark Village two hours before each Bradley game in the Missouri Valley Conference tournament.
Save the Date: BUBAA Reunion Weekend
April 17 - 19, 2026 | Peoria, Illinois
Mark your calendar for the biannual Bradley University Black Alumni Alliance (BUBAA) Reunion.
11th Annual Day of Giving
April 22, 2026 | Virtual
A day to come together virtually in celebration and support of Bradley’s mission. Watch for ways to get involved early in the new year!
BRADLEY INVITES YOU to consider membership in the
Join the nearly 700 alumni, parents and friends who have honored Bradley in their estate plans. Through this society, you can designate exactly where you want your estate gift applied to benefit future Braves in a program of your choice.
LEARN MORE
Contact Charlie Roy: (309) 677-2241 | croy@bradley.edu
AN EPIC GIFT
Longtime Bradley supporters Earl and Kay Harbaugh continue their legacy of impact—this time by advancing nursing education through hands-on innovation in the classroom.
BY EMILY POTTS
Thanks to a $200,000 gift from Earl and Kay Harbaugh, Bradley nursing students now train with the same digital records system used in hospitals across the country, giving them a competitive edge from day one. Bradley is one of only four universities in the nation to implement Epic’s student training platform, Lyceum, into the nursing curriculum.
The Harbaughs’ interest in healthcare runs deep. Kay is a retired nurse and served on the board of Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva, Ill., where the couple funded a full training simulation lab more than a decade ago. She knows firsthand the importance of keeping pace with medical innovation.
“Students need to be fully prepared when they enter a healthcare environment,” said Earl. “We want Bradley nursing grads to walk into hospitals ready on day one. That’s how you change lives.” Their philosophy—educate, empower, and transform—guides all their philanthropic efforts in both healthcare and agriculture.
The Harbaughs’ connection to Bradley runs deeper than philanthropy. Both of their sons—and a daughter-in-law— attended the university nearly 40 years ago. Earl also served as a trustee and, together, the couple established the Harbaugh Endowed Scholarship.
MEETING A NEED
In 2024, the Harbaughs approached Bradley’s Department of Nursing to ask how they could make the most impact. Department chair Dr. Rachel Borton and undergraduate program director Kirsten Boyer identified Epic’s Lyceum training platform as a top priority.
“Their donation allowed us to cover not only the original integration fee, but also numerous student logins over the next few years,” Boyer explained. “This gift gives our students a realistic experience with electronic health record software without any additional financial burden.”
With Lyceum now integrated into the nursing curriculum, Bradley students will graduate more confident, capable, and career-ready. For the Harbaughs, that outcome is exactly what they envisioned.
“This is about more than technology,” Kay said. “It’s about giving students every advantage to succeed and ultimately provide better care.”
This significant gift will have a lasting impact that will empower students and transform their education— surpassing the Harbaughs’ litmus test.
1980s
John Becker ’84 joined Refractory Studio as a director of business development.
Paul Grider ’84 has retired from Caterpillar after 48 years of service to spend more time with his twin grandsons.
1990s
Vito Minneci ’95 was appointed president and CEO for Hill & Smith Inc. and National Signal LLC.
Karen Farris Cotton ’96, VP of Communications & Public Relations for Nexus Water Group, was recently honored as one of The Top 50 Women Leaders in Communications for 2025, a list published by Women We Admire, highlighting honorees who “navigate complex media environments, manage reputation, and craft messages that move audiences and influence perception.” She was recognized for her role at Nexus and her over 20 years of communications leadership in the water industry.
2000s
Amber ’02 and Justin Griffis ’02 hosted a special alumni reception at Shadow Glen Golf Club in Olathe, Kan., on Sept. 24, welcoming Kansas Governor Laura Kelly ’71. Kelly spoke about her time at Bradley and her path to public service.
Ryan Woodrow ’04 was recently recognized by the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau as a recipient of their 2025 Hospitality Hero Award. Ryan is an employee of the Chicago Blackhawks and serves as the manager of season ticket member services for their AHL affiliate, Rockford IceHogs.
Brenna Roether Al-Ajlouni, P.E. ’09, associate project manager, recently joined Hanson Professional Services Inc.’s Peoria office. She will assist with project management tasks and projects for municipal infrastructure.
Levi Obery ’09 of Ten Thirty-One Pictures Foundation, filmed and produced the documentary The Underground Railroad in Metamora,
with the help of the president of the Metamora Association for Historic Preservation (MAHP) Laure Adams ’85, ’90 GRD. For more information about the film, go to tenthirtyone.org.
2010s
Ashley O’Connor ’11 was appointed director of investigations for the Office of Professional Review at the Cook County Sheriff’s Office in Chicago.
2020s
Aaron Anderson ’25 and Katelynn Lands ’25 were both promoted within the U.S. Army ranks to Second Lieutenant in May 2025.
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L to R: Nick and Shelby Exposito ‘08, Amber Griffis ‘02, Governor Kelly ‘71, Justin Griffis ‘02, Cristan Philipp ‘81, and Scott Philipp ‘81.
L to R: Laure Adams ’85, ’90 GRD and Levi Obery ’09
1. Little World Changer, by Jennifer LaRocque ’10
Jesus, His Life, His Love, His Promise, by Jeff Hutchison ’84
The Wrestler Who Discovered A Hidden Treasure, by Juliet Lilledahl Scherer ’97
Portrait of a Gunfighter, by Thomas Bicknell ’74
Taking My Fish for a Walk, by Ellen Akilov ’11
Emily and Adam Bockler ’11, Eloise Scarlett and Clara Rose Bockler, July 22, 2025
Mia DePatie ’20 and Nick Brow ’21, Nov. 22, 2025 pictured at bridal shower
Victor and Mikaela Sammond ’16, Owen Sammond, May 23, 2025.
Sadie Pirkle ’24 and Reed Sanders ’23, June 28, 2025
L to R: Madison Puetz ’24, Gabe Roy ’23, Sadie Pirkle ’24, Reed Sanders ’23, Luke Kotcher ’24, Jordan Tatgenhorst ’24, Luke Lowry ’22
Faculty & Staff
1940s
Dr. James C. Ballowe, 5/11/25, Distinguished Professor of English, Emeritus 1963-1999
Dr. Bernard Goitein, 8/2/25, Professor of Business Management & Administration, Emeritus 1981 - 2020
Dr. Robert Bolla, 7/27/25, Associate Provost for Research and Graduate Dean 2005-2010, Interim Provost 2008-2010
Charles “Chuck” Frey, 8/16/25, Special Collections Librarian, Emeritus 1979 - 2019
Dr. Robert Gayhart, 6/30/25, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Emeritus 1969 - 2007
Harold L. Anderson ’49, 8/24/25
1950s
Ray E. Griggs ’50, 7/17/25
James E. Stockdale ’52, 8/12/25
Sherlane Schneblin Heeg ’54, 8/11/25
Donna Schermer Russell ’55, 9/13/25
Phyllis Alexander Suter ’55, 9/8/25
Bruce O. Buhrmaster ’56, 9/2/25
Margie Schaechter Frakes ’56, 9/21/25
Glenn L. Beall ’57, 7/24/25
Ralph M. Hartsock ’57, 9/30/25
Herbert E. Corse ’57, 6/15/25
Allan D. Luke ’58, 8/1/25
Robert Mundelius ’58, 2/28/24
1960s
Donald C. Azukas ’60, 8/14/25
Charles E. Carlson ’60, 8/11/25
Gerald A. Bendle ’61, 8/29/25
Kenneth Hoffman, 8/18/25, Professor of Art, Emeritus 1969 - 2004
Dr. Thomas Stewart ’59, 8/8/25, Professor of Electrical Engineering 1959 - 2008
Carole Winkler ’51, 2/1/25, Associate Professor of Health Movement Sciences, Emeritus 1959 - 1986
Suzanne Eckdahl Bogard ’61, 7/10/25
Maurice P. Mefford ’61, 8/5/25
William D. Sulaski ’62, 8/12/25
Alice Wildermuth ’62, 8/4/25
Jerry A. Orrison ’63, 7/3/25
Nancy Owen DeRose ’64, 6/15/25
Roy L. Logan ’64, 8/15/25
Thomas W. Maibach ’64, 6/14/25
Barry E. Hershman ’65, 6/9/25
David A. Hoffman ’65, 6/10/25
Douglas S. Thompson ’65, 6/8/25
Kathryn Knoesel Tice ’65, 7/24/25
Ronald G. Gunther ’66, 8/24/25
Michael H. Knapp ’66, 8/22/25
Barbara Jo Moran Miller ’66, 12/23/24
LaMont D. Robinson ’66, 7/19/25
Richard H. Thulean ’66, 9/21/25
Elmer S. Beatty ’67, 6/4/25
Robert J. Clark ’67, 7/10/25
Maxwell A. Shea ’67, 9/5/25
William R. Shotton ’67, 9/16/25
Edwin C. Fouts ’68, 6/20/25
John J. Gasparic ’68, 8/30/25
Theodore R. Schaumburg ’68, 9/15/25
Richard H. Thulean ’69, 9/21/25
Susan V. Dexter ’69, GRD ‘76, 8/6/25
Dennis W. Witter ’69, 6/6/25
1970s
David J. Balzer ’70, 6/26/25
James F. Debenham ’70, 8/1/25
Karen Meltzer Strategier ’70, 9/23/25
John T. Blake ’71, 8/20/25
Ronald G. Gunther ’71, 8/24/25
Rebecca Harmon Madsen ’71, 6/13/25
Carl L. McClung ’71, 9/15/25
Edward J. Wehrli ’71, 6/21/25
Maria N. Lane Arends ’72, MS ‘76, 6/16/25
Ronald L. Barth ’72, 8/12/25
Deborah Vandessel McEwan ’72, 8/6/25
Paul D. Zablow ’72, 7/22/25
Charles W. Glick ’73, 9/21/25
John M. Vallely ’73, 6/14/25
Jonathan E. Patt ’74, 7/8/25
Barbara Lippi McDonough ’75, 9/24/25
Marlene A. Eagleson ’76, 7/10/25
Barbara J. Van Riper Finnegan ’77, 8/22/25
Bob H. Robinson ’77, 7/10/25
Pamela Petersen Warren ’77, 6/2/25
Teresa Egan Wilson ’77, 7/2/25
Marlene A. Eagleson ’78, 7/10/25
Brion A. Roberts ’79, 8/20/25
1980s
Georganna Kovanda ’80, 5/30/24
Janet Brown Steider ’80, 8/8/25
Dale E. Kukla ’81, 6/28/25
Maria N. Lane Arends ’85, 6/16/25
John T. Woodbury ’81, 7/27/25
Bhaskar Mookerjee ’82, 7/1/25
Ronald L. Hallbick ’87, 9/23/25
David W. Olejniczak ’87, 7/3/25
John W. Skaggs ’87, 9/27/25
Lynn A. Dennis ’89, 8/16/25
1990s
Theresa Kulb ’94, 6/23/25
Elizabeth Haddigan Oberle ’97, 8/17/25
2000s
Peggy Talbert McDonald ’00, 6/19/25
Anthony M. Murphy ’02, 7/2/25
2010s
Dante L. DaWalt ’10, 9/23/25
Jonathan E. Thomal ’10, 7/24/25
Kelsey Hilst Howard ’13, 7/6/25
Michael E. Higgins ’14, 8/24/25
2020s
Tiffiany L. King ’22, 7/15/25
Baseball Game - Cubs vs. White Sox
Lydia’s Birthday Celebration - Peoria
Baseball Game Gathering - MLB Washington Nationals
Presidential Alumni Tour - Chicago
Presidential Alumni Tour - St. Louis
