HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL 3 | COMMENCEMENT 7 | VICTORY BELL 11 | FROM THE CHAPLAIN 21 | PASSING THE TEST 23 | POST GRAD 25 | CLASS NOTES 27
LEAVING A LEGACY WILDCAT WILLIE HAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.
Summer 2017 Volume 27 Issue 2 culver.edu 1
FROM THE TOP OF THE HILL
CHRONICLE CULVER- STOCKTON COLLEGE
Summer 2017 Vol. 27 Issue 2
Reverend Dr. Chris Dorsey, President of HELM, President Kelly M. Thompson and Dr. Daniele C. Struppa, President of Chapman University I have presided over three Culver-Stockton College Commencement ceremonies. Was it not just yesterday that Clarke and I joined this wonderful community? As I reflect on my time here, two words come to mind, success and generosity. I am proud of the success of our students and how well they represent C-SC at the regional and national levels. Our Mock Trial team finished in the top ten at a regional competition and one student won Outstanding Attorney with a perfect score. The 2016 edition of Harmony, the College’s literary magazine, won in the gold category for the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, as well as second place in the American Scholastic Press Association for school size category. Our athletes are continuously designated on national coaching association all-star lists. Three of our online MBA students were on the Global Strategy team that finished tied for number one worldwide in the overall game score in Glo-Bus, which is a strategy game that incorporates all the major decision-making aspects of running a business. Having our students compete and display their talents on the national stage is of utmost importance to the persona that is Culver-Stockton! C-SC’s success is also hinged on it remaining relevant and familiar across the nation. Recently I was elected by my presidential colleagues to serve as Chair of the Council of Colleges and Universities for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and with that appointment I now serve on the Board for Higher Education Leadership Ministries (HELM) and the General Board. In July, I will join other faculty and staff, students and families at the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Missouri Colleges Fund is an organization that promotes private colleges in Missouri to businesses across the state, and I am now serving a two-year term as Treasurer. Also, I am actively involved in the Heart of America Athletic Conference Council of Presidents. The Council of Independent Colleges is a national organization focused on independent higher education which provides myriad opportunities to share perspectives and ideas for growth. I was recently nominated to serve on their board of directors. These affiliations keep Culver-Stockton College at the forefront. Now let me say a few words about generosity. I am overwhelmed by the generous nature of our trustees, alumni and friends. In the following pages you will learn about the transformational gifts that are being realized because alumni and friends believe in the mission and vision of C-SC. In addition to making a difference in students’ lives through the Student Scholarship Fund, these generous gifts are also funding the construction of a new residence hall, a new archway on Schwan Parkway (as a gateway to learning), first generation student scholarships, facility improvements and the list goes on and on. I am also grateful for the continued support of corporations and foundations. The J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation once again awarded us a challenge grant and the Fred C. and Katherine B. Andersen Foundation, the George and Frances Nichols Foundation, Refreshment Services Pepsi and others continue to support us yearly. C-SC has over 10,000 alumni that currently reside in every corner of the world. As alumni, you are the best representation of what it means to have a Culver-Stockton College education, and you can assist us in keeping our College relevant at the national level and around the world. I hope you take every opportunity, as I do, to share the good news of Culver-Stockton College!
Follow @CSCPresident on Twitter! 1 Chronicle, Summer 2017
The Culver-Stockton Chronicle is published by the C-SC Office of Marketing & Public Relations for alumni and friends to inform readers of campus happenings and give insight into the mission and philosophy of the College and the expertise of its leaders. EDITORIAL STAFF Misty McBee ’02 Executive Director of Admission & College Marketing Brian Kroeger Marketing & Public Relations Coordinator Stephanie Schmitz Design & Digital Media Specialist Kelsey Farley Multimedia Designer John G. Schild Sports Information Director ADMINISTRATION Ronald W. Leftwich ’64 Chairman of the Board of Trustees Dr. Kelly M. Thompson President Dr. Daniel K. Silber Vice President for Academic Affairs & Dean of the College ADVANCEMENT & ALUMNI Dr. Bill Sheehan Vice President for Advancement & Alumni Programs Melissa DuBuque ’88 Director of Alumni Programs
Culver-Stockton College One College Hill Canton, MO 63435 Office of Advancement & Alumni 800-755-CATS alumni@culver.edu
CONTENTS
Class of 2017
DEPARTMENTS From the Top of the Hill
1
Happenings on the Hill
3
Victory Bell
11
Academic Affairs
13
From the Chaplain
21
Passing the Test
23
Post Grad
25
In Memoriam
27
Class Notes
27
New Faces
33
ON THE COVER
HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL 3 | COMMENCEMENT 7 | VICTORY BELL 11 | FROM THE CHAPLAIN 21 | PASSING THE TEST 23 | POST GRAD 25 | CLASS NOTES 27
Lei Alena Dagat, Chairman of the Board Ron Leftwich and Grant Thompson stand with the Class of 2017 Senior Challenge gift.
7
Commencement
The Class of 2017 was recognized at the 161st Commencement Ceremony.
13
10th Anniversary of the 12/3
C-SC has broken the mold in the delivery of experiential learning. See a reflection of the past 10 years.
15
LEAVING A LEGACY WILDCAT WILLIE HAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.
FEATURES
Summer 2017 Volume 27 Issue 2
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Culver-Stockton College is to prepare students of promise for a dynamic world through our distinctive experiential curriculum within a supportive learning community founded upon the best values of faith and the human spirit.
Criminal Justice
Many C-SC graduates have careers in criminal justice. Read about four alumni who explain how C-SC made a difference in their lives.
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HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL
NEW & NOTEWORTHY
DISTINCTIONS
Largest Single Gift in History of the College
Harmony Wins National Awards
President Thompson announced the largest gift from any individual in the history of the College. The endowed estate gift of 2.5 million dollars will be added to the Arthur E., Marilyn J. and Kathryn E. Hendren Endowed Scholarship for student-athletes who play football or basketball. Since the creation of the scholarship, 23 students have benefited. However, more students will have the opportunity to benefit thanks to the Hendren estate gift. The original scholarship was established in 1993 by Art Hendren. While at C-SC, Hendren was an outstanding student-athlete, lettering four years in football, three years in basketball and three years in track. After induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame he thanked his C-SC coaches for seeing his potential and giving him the opportunity to go to college.
The 2016 edition of Harmony, the student-produced annual literary and art magazine, won two national awards. It won in the gold category for the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and second place in the American Scholastic Press Association. The Harmony class is taught and advised by Dr. Ron Stormer and Mr. Gary Meacher.
Senior Class Gives Back to C-SC
Student’s Design Goes on Cover
The Class of 2017 continued the challenge of Board of Trustee Chairman Ron Leftwich ’64 and his wife, Susie to leave a legacy on campus. This year’s seniors gifted a bronze statue of a wildcat. The project is paid for by donations from the Class of 2017 and matched by a gift from the Leftwich family. Since the start of the C-SC senior challenge in 2011, projects given back to the college include a television in the alumni office to share campus events, the fire pit in the center of campus, the walkway to the fire pit, the clock near Carl Johann Memorial Library and tables and chairs for the renovations of the Cat’s Pause.
Lucas Thomas, a junior history major, created the design for the winning cover for the Cinderella Ballet for the Quincy Civic Music Association. Two Culver-Stockton students, Avry Gildehaus and Brock Him, received runner up honors in the contest.
3 Chronicle, Summer 2017
HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL
FINE ARTS Theatre Premieres Guest Artist Production Culver-Stockton College welcomed back Michael Brainard for the fourth time for their annual Guest Artist Production, but this time he did not perform on stage. Instead he worked with students as a playwright and director. Students had the opportunity to premiere in Brainard’s play, “War is Coming, Ernie Pyle.” The play centered on Ernie Pyle, a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist during World War II, who was famous for his newspaper writing of ordinary men during the war. “This was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up; this is such a gift,” said Brainard. He also plans to write about Pyle in other mediums, and thinks his time at C-SC greatly expanded his experiences and will help him write about Pyle. During the start of rehearsal Brainard said students did not know how to respond since they had never worked with a playwright before. However, he was thrilled to inspire students, show them his process and teach them. By the end, they seemed excited and were having fun during rehearsals. Brainard postponed his short film, “Mi America,” which premiered on HBO in March, in order to be a part of the Guest Artist Production.
Visual Arts Day Continues to Grow
Continuing a Fine Arts Tradition
For more than 60 years the concert choir and wind ensemble paired up for their annual spring music tour, with the final destination being southeastern Kansas. Performances took place in nearly a dozen locations, including a community college, churches and high schools of several alumni. The tour is also an opportunity for ensemble members to learn about where they are traveling. The College music program has toured longer than any other college or university in Missouri. The tour was led by Mr. Scotty Allison, Director of Choral Activities; Dr. Trent Hollinger, Director of Bands; and Dr. Tom Polett, Professor of Music and Jazz Studies.
It was a record-breaking annual Visual Arts Day on C-SC’s campus, as more than 325 local high school students attended this year’s event. Participants learned about art through workshops and competition. Over twenty area high schools were represented and several of the art teachers who brought their students were C-SC alumni. After a welcome ceremony students were able to attend individually-themed workshops to help better their skills in various mediums. Some of this year’s workshops included drawing with bleach, ceramics on the wheel, jewelry-making, graphite art, watercolor, and graphic design. Many of the workshops were led by area artists, some of which were C-SC alumni, as well as senior art students. Once the workshops were completed, students concluded the day by touring the juried art exhibition where they could see other students’ artwork. The displayed artwork was judged by faculty from various colleges and universities in the area. The winning pieces were announced to students during the awards ceremony. culver.edu 4
HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
ACCOLADES
Pre-Art Therapy Articulation with Adler University
First Student Accepted into KCUMB Program
Culver-Stockton College added a new Pre-Art Therapy program and now is partnering with Adler University, located in Chicago, Ill., to allow students in the program easier access to the Master of Arts in Counseling: Art Therapy program. The articulation does not guarantee admission to the program, but students would be highly considered as viable candidates. Admitted students are guaranteed a scholarship between $10,000 to $24,000 depending on GPA, portfolio, etc. “I’m very excited about our new partnership with Adler University,” says Daniel Silber, Dean of the College. “I hope this is the beginning of a relationship that will grow over the coming years.”
3+3 J.D. Partnership with Mizzou C-SC and the University of Missouri entered into a nonexclusive partnership for the “Three plus Three Juris Doctorate Program” (3+3 Program). The 3+3 Program allows high-caliber, highly motivated students the opportunity to complete their undergraduate degree while completing their first year of law school at MU. Melody Schroer, Assistant Professor of Legal Studies, and Department Chair for Criminal Justice and Legal Studies, said, “We are delighted to establish this relationship with the University of Missouri School of Law. In addition to their outstanding academic offerings, clinical programs and their renowned Center for the Study of Dispute Resolution, the law school also offers small class sizes and low faculty-student ratios.” She added that C-SC students are well prepared for the transition to law school thanks to experiential activities including mock trials, negotiations, mediations, as well as courses in legal research, analysis and writing. 5 Chronicle, Summer 2017
Anna Stock, a sophomore biological chemistry major from Quincy, Ill., is the first student accepted to the earlyentry medical school option offered with Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCUMB). Stock will finish her time at C-SC her junior year then enroll as a medical student during what would have been her senior year. She will earn a bachelor of science from C-SC, then after three additional years at KCUMB will complete her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine degree. KCUMB has been noted as one of the nation’s founding colleges of osteopathic medicine.
C-SC Professor Selected to Participate in Seminar on Teaching Interfaith Understanding Dr. Andy Walsh, Professor of Religion & Philosophy, has been selected from a competitive, national pool of nominees to participate in a faculty seminar on the teaching of interfaith understanding. The seminar is offered by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) and Interfaith Youth Core (IFYC), with support from the Henry Luce Foundation. Twenty-five faculty members, from across the country, will participate in the five-day Teaching Interfaith Understanding seminar that will take place this summer at DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois. Dr. Walsh looks forward to the opportunity, saying, “I am pleased to work with such outstanding practitioners and scholars of interfaith understanding. I am excited about this opportunity to grow in my own ability to promote interfaith understanding.” During Dr. Walsh’s time at Culver-Stockton College he has taken hundreds of students as part of the coursework he teaches to St. Louis to explore a synagogue, a mosque, a Hindu temple, a Buddhist temple, a Holocaust center and other religious sites. Dr. Walsh has been on the C-SC faculty since 2001.
HAPPENINGS ON THE HILL
DONATIONS AT WORK New Stadium Seating
A Professor’s Influence: The Sperry & Thompson Collections
The College is in the process of installing new seating at Ellison Poulton Stadium at NX Level Field. The current seats were originally from Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo., and were installed in 2003. Mike Bringer ’93, Director of Campus Safety and Facilities, says the seating needed to be upgraded. The project is expected to be completed by August 1. This project is possible thanks to generous donors.
Alumna Donates Steinway Piano
Culver-Stockton College and the Mabee Art Gallery presented the internationally acclaimed African-American Art Collection of Larry ’67 and Brenda Thompson from February 10 to April 20. Selections from their collection were shown in conjunction with a sampling of the Art Collection of former faculty member John and his wife Jean Sperry. Larry Thompson, a native of Hannibal, Mo., was the only African-American student on the CulverStockton College campus when he arrived. The Sperry’s invited him to dine with them on occasion and shared their love of music and art with the young Thompson. The Thompsons chose to title the show “A Professor’s Influence: The Sperry & Thompson Collections.” This show included an eclectic array of time and space as the Sperrys’ collection includes pieces from all over the world and from before Christ to contemporary. Their collection includes coins, medieval manuscripts, watercolors and oils and scrimshaw. The Thompsons’ chose to focus on African-American art, their collection is considered one of the finest in the world. Alumni will have the opportunity to view the art show during homecoming. Thompson was the Konneker Leader in Residence from February 7-9, 2017. The former deputy attorney general shared his leadership experience with faculty, staff, students and friends of the College. Dan Dickinson ’72 has been named the Konnecker leader in residence for 2018.
Derek Froman ’20
The Music Department received a Steinway piano to educate young musicians from alumna Susan Kay Hardee ’83 after her passing. Hardee also donated three bookshelves of music; some date back to the early 1900s. The music was collected by Hardee and her late grandmother Ruth Hulse Nelson ’24. Susan is the daughter of Barbara Haupt ’56 and Jack Woltz ’52. Steinways increase in value every year so the piano will continue giving back to the campus and students year after year.
Dr. Larry Thompson ’67
culver.edu 6
7 Chronicle, Summer 2017
Thanks to sunny, spring weather commencement was held outside on the quad on May 13, 2017. Nearly 225 degrees were conferred, including undergraduates and graduates. Since C-SC’s nearly 30% growth in enrollment since 2011, this year’s commencement included fifty more graduates than the previous year. The record-breaking ceremony saw 12 honors students graduate and 17 students hooded with a Master in Business Administration (MBA) degree, the most since the program was launched in 2013.
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Kira McGrotty and Chyenne Peterson
9 Chronicle, Summer 2017
Greg Parker
Group of Delta Upsilon graduates
Brittani Hagemeier and Jonathan Haarmann
Maureen Kahn, Commencement Speaker
David McClintock ’71
President Kelly M. Thompson
Dr. Kelly M. Thompson, President, was honored to celebrate the achievements of the graduates. “It has been extremely fulfilling to watch these young men and women grow in my three years on ‘the Hill’ and I am very confident that the experience these students have received will prepare them for immense opportunities in their future careers or graduate studies.” Grant Thompson of Rossmoor, Calif., was selected to represent the Class of 2017 as the student speaker. Thompson earned a degree in finance, and in his address urged fellow graduates to remember they will succeed because they are C-SC graduates. Thompson has also won numerous awards throughout his tenure on “the Hill,” including The Anton Kozelichki ’14 Spirit Leadership Award, the W.A. Herington Outstanding Male Senior Athlete and Susan V. Leftwich Spirit of Culver-Stockton College Award, all in 2017, and the Rose Marie Grossenbacher MacDoniels Prize for Campus Leadership in 2016. He was also a four-year letterman on the inaugural men’s volleyball team, which launched in 2012. “What sets us apart is that for the past four years, CulverStockton College has molded us to undoubtedly change the world. You see, here at Culver-Stockton, we have been extremely fortunate to have the most influential people pushing us to achieve both excellence and success as a graduate,” encouraged Thompson. “A foundation is built on placing the success of the students first, by going the extra mile.” Maureen Kahn, CEO of Blessing Health System in Quincy, Ill., was the keynote speaker. Kahn joined Blessing Hospital as the Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer in 2001. In 2005, she became the President/Chief Executive Officer of Blessing Hospital, and in 2014 became the President/CEO of Blessing Health System. Under her leadership, Blessing Hospital achieved national recognition for its quality of care and operational performances including Magnet status for nursing care quality, recognition of the Primary Stroke Center by the The Joint Commission, Chest Pain Center recognition from the Society of Chest Pain Centers and many more accolades. What has driven Kahn in her career is leading an organization to provide the best quality medical care to people in the tri-state area. A lifelong learner, the focus of her address was storytelling, and that each situation you live through is an opportunity for growth and to share with others. “Your story is about your experience and who you are, not who others think you are,” said Kahn. “Don’t stop learning and don’t stop telling your story.” During commencement President Thompson and Dr. Dan K. Silber, Dean of the College, presented Kahn with an honorary Doctorate of Health Care Administration. As the Class of 2017 prepares for the next stage of life, they can remember their time on “the Hill” helped make them who they are today. Thanks to their experiences inside and outside the classroom, they know they are ready for anything. Like the graduates before them, these graduates can go into the world knowing they are forever Wildcats. See all of our Commencement photos on our Flickr page at flickr.com/photos/c-sc/albums.
Grant Thompson delivers the Student Challenge
Dr. Kelli Stiles, Melissa Kackley, Dr. Melissa Holt
Brandon Cotter, Thomas Cooper, Jared Cooney and Emma Colon
Mat Holt ’08 and Dylan Berry
culver.edu 10
VICTORY BELL
THE OPPORTUNITY TO COME BACK AND COACH GIVES ME THE CHANCE TO GIVE BACK TO THE SCHOOL THAT GAVE US SO MUCH.
Follow Coach Sallay on Twitter @CoachSallayCSC #RestoreTheRoar
11 Chronicle, Summer 2017
VICTORY BELL
RESTORE THE ROAR BY JOHN SCHILD, SPORTS INFORMATION DIRECTOR
Culver-Stockton College is a special place for new head football coach Tom Sallay. It is so special, in fact, that the 2001 C-SC graduate and first-time head coach admits that this was the one job for which he would pick up and move his family if it became available. He and his wife, Alex ’01, are both graduates of C-SC. Alex (Steel) was a four-year letterwinner on the women’s volleyball team that captured three Heart of America Athletic Conference championships. “This place changed my life 20 years ago and gave me a great opportunity to come here, go to school, meet my wife and get a great education,” said Sallay, who played football for the Wildcats from 1997-2000. “The opportunity to come back and coach gives me the chance to give back to the school that gave us so much.” Sallay graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education and went on to obtain master degrees in special education and administration. He spent the last 11 seasons on the staff at the University of Saint Francis in Joliet, Ill. The last two years, Sallay served the Saints as the defensive coordinator, and that was where he made his mark. He was named the Mid-States Football Association Midwest League Assistant Coach of the Year in 2015 after leading his defense to a top four ranking in scoring defense, 14th in total defense and 17th in rushing defense. Anyone associated with the Wildcat football program knows that defense has been a sore point the last two seasons. Sallay is well aware of that fact, he envisions the Wildcats improving drastically and he wants it to be immediately. “Everyone knows where we are as a program,” said Sallay. “We don’t sugarcoat it when we are talking to recruits. Our goal is to recruit great kids that care about the school, care about getting a degree and playing football—in that order.” “I’m excited to be able to get on the road and get to the high school coaches and start recruiting this (Tri-State) area again,
telling the kids how great a place Culver-Stockton is and how they can be part of something special.” And Sallay is not interested in talking about a plan to improve the program over time. “We want to be the envy of the NAIA,” bellowed Sallay. “Our goal is not to be competitive in the Heart of America Athletic Conference our first few years, our goal is to win games and win games now.” That might sound ambitious for a program that has had just 24 winning seasons in 107 seasons playing football, and only three winning seasons in the last 30 years. However, Sallay is not dismayed and wants Ellison Poulton Stadium to be filled to capacity each and every Saturday. “It’s exciting to be the guy that is given the chance to turn this program into something special, something that not only the players and I can be proud of, but all the alumni and everyone associated with the program can be proud of,” said Sallay. That excitement already began with the announcement of Sallay’s hiring in December. Many of Sallay’s former teammates and classmates called to congratulate him and reach out to him, especially those who have gone on to become coaches themselves. “I’ve had a lot of support from friends who want to push their players to Culver-Stockton. They are excited for me and the program, and they believe there is something special here,” said Sallay. The campus has changed drastically since Sallay was a student-athlete with new buildings, new athletic programs, a new entry way and new or updated facilities gracing the hilltop campus. He is betting one more change is imminent, that the culture of the Wildcat football program will change for the better and make “the Hill” the place to be on Saturday fall afternoons for years to come. culver.edu 12
ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
P CO M I N G U E H T
10 ANNIVERSARY th
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12/3
GET READY TO CELEBRATE A DECADE OF CURRICULAR INNOVATION BY SCOTT GILTNER ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF HISTORY & DIRECTOR OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Peru Travel Study class April 2017
Ghana Travel Study class April 2017 13 Chronicle, Summer 2017
“Faculty Enhances the Curriculum for the 2008-09 School Year,” declared the headline of the December 4, 2007 Megaphone. This declaration reported the results of a November Faculty Assembly vote, adopting an expanded emphasis on experiential learning and a radical change to the Culver-Stockton College academic calendar. Next year, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the adoption of our now-cherished 12/3 calendar, the intentional expansion of a long and rich tradition of experiential learning on “the Hill,” and the subsequent transformation of course offerings and redefinition of the traditional classroom for a decade of Wildcats. The faculty worked to develop a number of different proposals for the new curriculum and calendar during the 2006-07 school year and approved the current 12/3 and expanded experiential emphasis in November 2007. The Board of Trustees approved the plan at its February 2008 meeting and the program was introduced to students throughout the spring in a series of Megaphone articles, town halls and meetings of the Student Government Association. When students arrived on campus in the fall,
ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
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they were greeted by an academic calendar that is still only shared by one other institution in the country. Since then, experiential learning has been delivered in new and exciting ways becoming the bedrock of Culver-Stockton College’s education. It is mentioned in all of our foundational documents, the academic catalog and all of our promotional materials. But what is experiential learning and why has it had such an impact? Experiential learning, both in and out of the traditional classroom, occurs when educators and learners are empowered to purposefully engage in, reflect on and synthesize well-planned, active experiences that have an authentic or simulated real-world context. It is based on an active learning model, requiring students to engage with the real world and the theoretical one, to sometimes expand their learning beyond the confines of the classroom and to frequently leave their comfort zones. Experiential learning might best be understood as operating within a cycle wherein students 1) Act, 2) Engage in guided reflection on that action, 3) Conceptualize what they learned and 4) Apply what they learned to the next action. The 12/3 academic calendar is ideally suited to maximize the types of experiential learnings seen on the graph. The 12/3 allows students the opportunity to divide their efforts between fewer courses during the 12-week, creating more opportunity for new, better active, experiential learning and opens up nearly endless possibilities for the same during the 3-week. Long-term travel study, for example, previously forced students to miss all of their other classes, but can now be done during the 3-week and no other coursework is missed. Internships can be scheduled in a more open 12-week, or in the 3-week, which allows students to work three 40-hour weeks and better show potential employers what they can accomplish. No matter the kind of experiential opportunity,
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the 12/3 helps C-SC deliver it more intensely, intentionally and creatively. Since the new curriculum was implemented, Wildcats have explored the world through 36 study abroad expeditions. They have engaged their communities through six annual Extreme Dome Makeovers and an average of 6,000-8,000 logged service hours per year while winning multiple national awards for community engagement. They have benefited from countless internships and preprofessional experiences that helped maintain a 94 percent job placement rate for our graduates. According to President Kelly M. Thompson, “Culver-Stockton has changed magnificently over the last few years and, in the process, has transformed its curriculum into countless experiential learning opportunities for students.” We have seen such wonderful change create a period of sustained excitement that energized the faculty and staff and gave students a more diverse and enriching range of experiences. The calendar helped expand on a culture of educational innovation in and out of the classroom that has made the C-SC curriculum unique. Our enrollment has grown and more importantly, made our students better enabled to confidently confront an ever-changing world. culver.edu 14
call
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ACTION BY BRIAN KROEGER MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS COORDINATOR
The echo of a wailing siren is a sound unlike any other. It’s a call to action, an alarm, a question—one that the men and women of law enforcement and criminal justice are ready to answer. There are numerous careers associated with criminal justice. From ticketing reckless drivers to crime scene forensic analysis, all are vital in assuring the safety of the public. Culver-Stockton College has provided many criminal justice professionals with a core education that prepared them for their careers. While some C-SC alumni did not study criminal justice, Seth McBride, Lecturer in Criminal Justice says, “Any degree could lead to a career in law enforcement.” This is what an education at C-SC is all about, experiential learning, that prepares graduates for a career in various roles across multiple industries. Approximately 10 percent of Culver-Stockton students major in criminal justice. An online degree was accredited in 2014. The growing world of law enforcement has room for not only criminal justice majors, but for graduates of any C-SC degree program. As such, the call has been answered by many C-SC alumni, as they’re driven to protect and serve.
15 Chronicle, Summer 2017
culver.edu 16
Thousands gathered to view commencement on May 13, 2017 and all attendees saw a graduate who looked very different than the other graduates. It was not because of glitter, tape on a mortarboard, tassels or brightly colored Greek letters. When Mitchell Barton ’17 stepped across the commencement platform everyone took notice. Barton was dressed in his blue City of Canton police officer uniform to receive his diploma. The week of commencement Barton had a short meeting with President Thompson to ask for permission to wear his uniform during commencement, and Thompson agreed to allow it. Thompson proclaimed, “I was excited that Mitchell wanted to walk in his uniform. He worked incredibly hard as a student and in his profession to become an officer and we are very proud of him.” Barton was determined to wear his uniform because of ‘pride.’ I’m very proud of my accomplishments in my profession and in class. Passing the academy and being a Canton police officer is awesome. Graduating is the topping on the cake; I’m proud of my hard work and everything I have achieved.”
PASSING THE ACADEMY AND BEING A CANTON POLICE OFFICER IS AWESOME. GRADUATING IS THE TOPPING ON THE CAKE.
MITCHELL BARTON ’17 17 Chronicle, Summer 2017
After completing his junior year of college, Barton, a Pillars Scholar, entered the police academy. It was something that he knew he needed to complete before becoming a police officer. It’s not a common occurrence for someone to enter the police academy, pass the academy, and continue with their education, but Barton was up for the task. After completing the academy, he returned to C-SC in the fall of 2016 as a full-time student and was hired as a full-time Canton police officer that October. It’s hard to imagine someone working as a full-time police officer and attending class full-time as well. Thanks to late nights, coffee and sheer determination he was able to pull through and graduate. “You have to be willing to put in the time, if you don’t you won’t succeed.” explained Barton. The quality of his education is easy for him to see. “I would not be where I am today without C-SC. Professors teach from the law enforcement experience they have instead of out of a book, making it easier to apply real case scenarios.” His education is far from over, as he plans to obtain his Master in Business Administration through the online MBA program at C-SC. Luckily he will not have to hurry onto campus to catch class as it will be 100% online and in his own time. He knows by partnering with C-SC he will be successful in his future endeavors as he was in his past. “I’m glad the College was always willing to listen and help. C-SC will work with you if you need help and bend over backwards to help you. And in the end, it will all work out.”
ABIGAIL LEHMAN ’03
TRY NEW THINGS, TAKE CHANCES... LIFE MAY SURPRISE YOU.
Abigail Lehman ’03 is best described as a lab rat. Graduating from C-SC with a degree in biology and minors in chemistry and psychology, she did not picture herself working in criminal justice. “I happened into this field by chance,” says Lehman. C-SC gave her the educational foundation needed to pursue her future; a future that has culminated in a career path she did not originally foresee. Coming to C-SC as a Pillars Scholar and student athlete made education affordable. It also gave her an opportunity to explore interests that she did not realize she had, ultimately providing her with great college experiences, as well as a great education. “I didn’t go to college expecting to earn a psychology minor, run the intramural program or work in the chemistry lab.” C-SC taught her to be open-minded and keep her options open. After graduation, she worked for a veterinary clinic. Now she is a Criminalist III in the Drug Chemist section with Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Laboratory Division, partially thanks to her mother. “My mom came across a posting for a criminalist with the MSHP and asked if I met the qualifications.” Along with her degrees from C-SC and desire to return to the lab she applied and received the position. Most days Lehman does not leave the lab, except for unusual cases. “Unlike most TV shows and certain agencies, we do not typically respond to crime scenes.” Normally, she analyzes unknown powders, liquids and materials for the presence of controlled substances, prepares reports and testifies in court to the results. A favorite part of her job is educating the public on the crime lab and the functions they perform. “I think it’s important for people to understand what our capabilities are and how we do our jobs. I believe that allows officers to better do their jobs and juries to better understand the evidence presented.” Having the ability to adapt under any circumstance is vital as a criminalist. One of Lehman’s most memorable moments involved the seizure of over 2,000 pounds of marijuana. “We didn’t have room in the laboratory, so I worked the evidence on-site.” Because the marijuana was bundled with layers of diesel grease and it was a hot day, Lehman will never forget it. Being open-minded could help one find the perfect career just as Lehman did. “You may find out that the career you have always wanted isn’t what you thought it would be. Try new things, take chances...life may surprise you.” culver.edu 18
KEEGAN KINDLE ’15 Law enforcement is more than just a job for Keegan Kindle ’15. It’s his calling to protect people. It’s his purpose. While finding his passion for law enforcement, he chose C-SC to prepare and further his education. One might think of it as a family affair, as Kindle followed in his siblings’ footsteps by attending C-SC, but it was more than just that. He wanted a tight-knit community, where professors would know his name and take an interest in his life. He wanted to know the people walking across campus and in his classroom. The advantage of the 12/3 calendar, experiential learning and being awarded a Pillars Scholar hooked Kindle. The travel study opportunities also influenced his decision. He visited over half a dozen locations while studying at C-SC including Cuba, Mexico and England. Thanks to his education Kindle was excellently prepared to go into law enforcement. Some of the topics studied at the academy seemed more like review and the familiarity of those topics eased his stress. He was able to pass through the Missouri Highway Patrol Academy and become a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper. Today Kindle has many responsibilities as a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper, but his favorite part of his job is stopping cars to prevent traffic crashes. “Growing up I always hated hearing stories of horrific crashes and how these crashes changed people’s lives forever.” A crucial part of his job is stopping impaired drivers, ultimately keeping the public safe. But he is also tasked with building relationships with the public to improve the perception of the highway patrol and law enforcement in general. The golden rule taught to him at the academy guides him in this effort, “Treat 19 Chronicle, Summer 2017
everyone as ladies and gentlemen; not necessarily because they are, but because we are.” As a recent graduate, he has already experienced both serious and lighthearted situations. During field training, he received his first patrol car, a black 2014 Dodge Charger. “A real beaut,” Kindle recalls. Eager to show off his new ride, he met his parents at his house in Moberly, Mo. the same evening he received his cruiser. His parents were still 15 minutes away when he decided to change into shorts and a t-shirt. After coming back outside Kindle arranged the items in the patrol car to make sure it was dutyready. His parents arrived and he began to show off all the features of the vehicle. The testing of his emergency lights was met by a Moberly police officer headed to his driveway. According to the officer a call from a neighbor reported a “young punk” breaking into a police vehicle. It was a classic case of mistaken identity, or more likely a curse of youthful appearance. Although he may appear young, his passion and drive to protect were instilled in him through his education and professional training. “Without C-SC, I don’t believe I’d be where I am today.”
WITHOUT C-SC, I DON’T BELIEVE I’D BE WHERE I AM TODAY.
KEVIN KELLEY ’92 Photo: Kevin Kelley ’92, Tim Fischer ’89, Greg Logsdon ’91
Before attending college Kevin Kelley ’92 knew he wanted to go into law enforcement. His ambition started after becoming friends with a Missouri State Trooper in his hometown of Brookfield, Mo. Kelley looked up to the man as an epitome of what a trooper should be, and hoped someday to be like him. In the course of achieving his goal Kelley chose C-SC as his educational partner. “There is no doubt the education I received has helped me further my career in law enforcement,” says Kelley. Agencies have drastically changed over time and need to stay ahead of the curve by hiring highly educated people leading the change in an evolving, technology oriented society. Agencies recruit individuals with good computer skills, writing skills and decision making skills. Kelley credits C-SC for his proficiency with these skills. Kelley succeeded in his goal and is a lieutenant at the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s General Headquarters in Jefferson City, Mo. He is also the Assistant Director of the Patrol’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division. He has multiple responsibilities including providing technical assistance to industry personnel and enforcement personnel, managing the Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program and setting objectives and strategies that affect industry and enforcement throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Kelley’s favorite thing about his job is making a difference in the lives of countless people. Just one example of his service making a difference happened several years ago. The department was contacted by a hospital in St. Louis about an individual who needed a kidney transplant. After reaching Kelley’s assigned area, the woman needed to be rushed to the hospital because a kidney was finally located for her from the national transplant registry. The drive would have taken two to three hours, but the woman was transported by patrol car with wailing sirens and lights. The quick trip ensured the kidney was received in a timely manner, which ultimately saved her life. “The Missouri State Highway Patrol’s mission is to serve and protect all people by enforcing law and providing service to ensure a safe and secure environment, which we do every day,” explained Kelley. He gives credit to C-SC for preparing him for his chosen career, “I learned many things in the classroom that directly relate to my profession in law enforcement.”
THERE IS NO DOUBT THE EDUCATION I RECEIVED HAS HELPED ME FURTHER MY CAREER IN LAW ENFORCEMENT.
culver.edu 20
FROM THE CHAPLAIN
david
YONKER ’00
mandy
WIEDEMAN ’99
THE BY AMANDA SORENSON CHAPLAIN
VOCATION
In ministry, we often use “the call” as a way of describing the path that led us into ministry. Sometimes it is a single moment that determines that path. Other times, it is a slow process that takes years of feeling the call before finally accepting. CulverStockton College, founded in part to educate clergy, has been the catalyst for countless minsters who responded to God’s call to enter the ministry. We have taken the opportunity to connect with some of our alumni who entered into the field of ministry to talk about what life is like in ministry and how C-SC shaped their call and prepared them. In asking about call stories, a common theme of reluctance to enter ministry often comes up and the same was true when asking our four featured alumni. When Rev. David Yonker ’00 realized pitching for the St. Louis Cardinals was probably not in the cards for him, he decided to really rethink what God was calling him to do with his life. Although he first started to feel the call in high school while serving on his General Youth Council, it took him a couple years to accept it. He wanted to get away from what he calls the “family business,” as many relatives, including his father, grandfather, aunt and uncle were all in the ministry and other family members were very involved in the life of the church. 21 Chronicle, Summer 2017
Rev. Mandy (Ledbetter) Wiedeman ’99, who recently celebrated 22 years in ministry, said she was fighting her call “tooth and nail” before finally accepting it. While she had felt the call to a life of ministry from an early age, she came to C-SC as a Music Education major, changing her mind several times before finally landing in Religion and Philosophy her junior year. Rev. Will Ryan entered C-SC wanting to be a lawyer or a judge, but kept replaying the times he had heard from family and church leaders that he would make a good minister. Rev. Ryan ’11 describes those comments as a mustard seed that eventually blossomed into his serious consideration and eventual commitment to enter ordained ministry. For these three, the call was answered while at C-SC. For Rev. Corey Meyer ’12, his call was an organic one that developed from a lifetime of finding sanctuary, stability and spiritual growth within the church. His call came out of the realization that churches can have a profound impact on both individuals and communities. All four of these ministers recognize that ministry, like all other lines of work, brings its unique challenges and joys. Ministry is a field in which you journey with people who experience both the highs and lows of the human emotion. For many, this is one
FROM THE CHAPLAIN
will
RYAN ’11
corey
MEYER ’12
MINISTRY
of the most difficult, but also beautiful and rewarding aspects of ministry. Rev. Yonker puts it this way, “I am afforded the wonderful and holy privilege of shepherding people in their lives of faith. I get to be with folks before they go into surgery and am with families when a loved one passes away. I also get to hold newborn babies, officiate at weddings and conduct baptisms.” One of Rev. Meyer’s favorite things about ministry so far, is all of the places it has taken him, working with many diverse people in diverse settings. Rev. Wiedeman cited that her favorite memory of ministry is leading mission trips to Haiti, where she has received blessings from those whom she went to serve. Rev. Ryan had a moving experience this Ash Wednesday when he imposed ashes on a woman in her 90s followed by a baby just a few months old, a beautiful reminder of the expanse of life. I also asked each alumni minister about the role C-SC had in shaping them as seminarians and ministers and again, some common themes emerged. Here they received not only an education that prepared them, but they also received encouragement, support, opportunities to lead and had the chance to serve local churches. Each stated their professors and chaplain had a major impact in the decision to pursue a life in
ordained ministry. Rev. Meyer says his professors, Dr. Terry Sherer and Dr. Andy Walsh, and former C-SC Chaplain Brent Reynolds taught him “how to see the world, how to read with intention and how to ask some of life’s toughest questions.” These thoughts and ideas have stayed with him through his seminary experience. He also learned what it takes to be a strong leader by working alongside Dean of Students, Dr. Christopher Gill and others in the Student Life office. Rev. Ryan credits his C-SC professors for helping develop his writing skills and introducing him to historical critical methods of reading scripture which helped him through seminary and continue to be important skills in his ministry. Here we celebrate the impact C-SC has had on many clergy over the years, but ministers are not the only ones who have a “call” placed on their lives. All of us are called to serve the world for good through our professional and personal lives. At C-SC, we walk with students of many faiths and backgrounds to help them discern their call and how they can best use their gifts and skills to make a positive impact on the world.
culver.edu 22
PASSING THE TEST: SHORT ANSWER
Short Answer with Dr. John Brodmann Dr. John Brodmann started teaching his first class at Culver-Stockton on February 6, 1957. At the time the 23-year-old just graduated with his master’s degree from Lynchburg College. In the first year of teaching he wore a tie in hopes of looking older, however the tie had a history of getting into the flames of Bunsen burners so he quit wearing them to class. After working for the College for 35 years, Dr. Brodmann retired and was awarded the status of Professor Emeritus of Chemistry, but his time at C-SC was not finished. He stayed on campus to volunteer as a tutor and to mentor international students. His role is not the only thing that has changed. In retirement, he is known on “the Hill” as “Dr. B.” His loud booming laugh can be heard around campus, and Dr. B still enjoys eating with students, faculty and staff in the dining hall. In his 60-year service to C-SC Dr. B has held many different roles including Chair, Division of Natural Science and Mathematics, Administrative Assistant to the President, Founder and Director to Annual Culver-Stockton College Science Fair, Founder and Director to Annual American Red Cross Blood Drive, Advisor to Student Honor Court and Faculty Marshal. The 83-year-old aspires to serve the college for at least another 10 years. When I first got to Culver-Stockton, I thought… what a beautiful campus, what a dedicated faculty and staff, and what incredible challenges await me in the Department of Chemistry as a 23-year-old, “wet behind the ears” professor. The words in the dictionary that best describe me are… Cheerful, enthusiastic, caring, perfectionist (you had better be a perfectionist as a chemist) The most unforgettable person at Culver-Stockton is/was… Miss Olga Bays, C-SC Registrar from 1949 to 1983. She ran a “tight ship” in the Registrar’s Office. I am absolutely certain she is doing the same in Heaven. 23 Chronicle, Summer 2017
The older I get, the more I realize… that our God created all of us as equals and that we need to act accordingly. The most useful piece of advice I ever received was… do unto others as you would have others do unto you. What a beautiful world it would be if this were the case. My favorite spot on campus is… Room 309 in the C-SC Science Center, which is my office. This is where I tutor and mentor our students (and from time to time a first-time faculty member). Please come by and tell me your story. My favorite memory of C-SC is… One of the most talked about events in C-SC history. It happened when three senior Chemistry majors: John Meyer ’63,
Marlan Graham ’63 and Gene Lindsay ’63 were carbon dating a mummy sample. The mummy sample and the apparatus containing the sample spontaneously detonated. Miraculously, the three chemistry majors were not injured. The apparatus was completely destroyed. Henderson Hall shook. (The chemistry laboratories were located on the ground floor of Henderson Hall at that time.)
PASSING THE TEST: STUDENT ESSAY
UNLIMITED
POTENTIAL BY KAYLA MAGRAW ’17
As freshmen, we came to CulverStockton and were told: DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT. Of course, this was right after we were given a bucket list of traditions to complete, such as visiting Wakonda Beach, sledding down the hill or going all the way to the basement of the library. As freshmen, we often joked about this phrase “do something different,” saying it anytime we did something new. Trust me, it got old fast. And sophomore year was no exception, but the joke happened less frequently. Junior year rolled around, and with it a new slogan. We would say “I C-S-C what you did there,” when we heard the old slogan. Yet as a senior, I have really taken stock in that phrase. During my time at C-SC I had my share of educational experiences. I have completed my student teaching, sharing my passion for theatre with the next generation. I’ve traveled abroad to three different countries where I saw Paris from the top of the Eiffel Tower, watched traditional Irish dancers in a pub in Ireland and tried to run through the wall at Platform 9 3/4 to go to Hogwarts in King’s Cross Station in London. I interned at Bluff
City Theater in Hannibal, Missouri, worked on several productions and performed on stage for friends that later became family. Some of these were goals I always dreamed of, but never thought would happen. It is thanks to C-SC pushing me to “do something different.” And I know that applies to more than just me in this year’s graduating class. In the Class of 2017, we have nine men who joined the first ever men’s volleyball team in the history of the College during their freshmen year. Mitchell Barton finished his senior year while working in law enforcement in Canton. Tyler Frump graduated with three degrees, but more importantly with two businesses she owns herself. The title of the C-SC student who has gone abroad the most during his time here goes to our class’ own, Steven Stock. I could continue to brag on the accomplishments of the entire Class of 2017, but that does not scratch the surface of the potential of each graduate. Promise Wildcats, that no matter where you go, always do something different. Promise that you will always be willing to try new things and always reach for new goals.
Because, if you promise to do something different, you are promising to never give up, and more importantly, never settle. Our time at C-SC will never end. By becoming alumni, we must continue to help Culver-Stockton College thrive and help the students in the coming years continue to make a difference. We can help support the future of the students who will attend here by allowing them to have the same opportunities that we had, such as supporting our unique traveling opportunities, our amazing Greek Life or by spreading the word about the beautiful college sitting on a bluff, overlooking the Mississippi River that helped push us to be better versions of ourselves than when we first stepped on this campus. If you are anything like me the future may scare you, but Class of 2017, let’s take risks. Let us step out of our comfort zones and allow ourselves to try new things. And let us never forget the college, faculty, staff and even our families who pushed us and helped us to discover that we have unlimited potential to “do something different.” culver.edu 24
POST GRAD
V E I R N D
for
SUCCESS BY MISTY MCBEE ’02 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF ADMISSION & MARKETING
Jasmine Brown ’12 might only stand four feet and eleven inches tall, but she has always been able to touch the stars. Brown chose C-SC for the opportunity to pursue a communications degree, as it was a dream of hers stemming from high school to work in television. She also wanted to continue her passion and love for cheerleading. During college, she was involved in Health Outreach Peer Educators (HOPE), Black Student Union (BSU), served as a community assistant (CA), wrote for the Megaphone student newspaper and helped with broadcasts in C-SC’s KCSW radio station. Brown was also part of the C-SC cheerleading squad all four years, landing a spot at the national level in 2011 and 2012. A natural leader, Brown enhanced almost everything she touched. Tyler Tomlinson, a faculty member in the communications program, enjoyed Brown’s enthusiasm for success. “Jasmine is a great example of when a student gets involved and puts in the work, you can get fantastic results at C-SC. She has a great work ethic and an awesome attitude to back that up. We are lucky to have her in the communication field.” Even though Brown credits C-SC for providing a tremendous foundation of experiences and opportunities, she was hungry for more. After completing a double-major in media communication and digital marketing, Brown attended graduate school at St. 25 Chronicle, Summer 2017
Louis University, the next stop on her career journey. While taking graduate courses, she also taught undergraduate students as a graduate assistant. After completing her master’s degree, Brown spent time in the media in St. Louis before returning to her hometown of Saginaw, Michigan, to work for NBC25/FOX66 as a producer on NBC25 Today, a morning show. She’s recently accepted the opportunity to produce one of the newest, highest-rated and fastest-growing morning shows in the Flint, Michigan market on the station’s FOX66 channel. Brown admits she is a procrastinator, but as a producer, tight deadlines are the standard.“In television news, you’re always under pressure. Every day the deadline is the same, and I must produce and write a two-hour morning show, or else. When in school, I put off papers until the last minute. I did well, but those deadlines were too loose for me. This quality about myself sounds horrible, but it’s the way I operate, and learning this career is the best fit for me makes going to work better each night.” She goes into work at 12:30 a.m. to prepare for the morning show. She chooses news stories by taking a look at what is new from overnight and what is going to happen that day locally, nationally and worldwide. She decides where these stories fit in the show based on newsworthiness, how it impacts the whole
POST GRAD
viewing market and the newest information on stories the station continues to cover. The anchors come in between 2:30 and 3:30 a.m. to begin reading scripts, and she continues to write until the NBC25 show begins at 5 a.m. In her new role, the FOX66 show starts at 7 a.m.
THE SMALL CAMPUS SIZE ALLOWED ME TO BECOME A LEADER AND FIGURE OUT HOW I SHINE WITH MY BEST QUALITIES.
Brown is grateful for her experiences on “the Hill” that shaped her into who she is today. She found success and continues to strive for more challenges. “The experiences I received taught me how to work with different types of people that I never would have met anywhere else. And the small campus size allowed me to become a leader and figure out how I shine with my best qualities. You can’t get that at a large university. I found me and what makes me great.” culver.edu 26
CLASS NOTES 1950’s Pauline Wang Tso ’53 lives in Los Angeles, Calif. She has been busy singing with a choir tour in Salzburg, Austria, participating in the Tournament of Roses Queen Coronation and traveling on a two-week cruise through the Caribbean. Marjorie (Million) Lovegreen ’55 lives in Palmyra, Mo. where she serves as office manager for Lovegreen Motor Co. In 1943 and 1944 her mother and siblings lived in cottages where the library now sits. Her father was inducted in the Army. Her sister was born on the Hill in July 1944. Mrs. Lovegreen went to C-SC for one year in 1951. The one year was well remembered and dear to her. 1960’s Karen Lane ’62 retired as an Innkeeper at the Braehead Manor B&B in Fredericksburg, Va. Karen and her husband, Warren Bane, live in Aiken, S.C. Leigh ’63 and Jane Conover moved to a new location in Quincy, Ill. Leigh retired from teaching and coaching. They have two grown daughters, Megan and Erin.
Culveropoly. Dayle Nelson created the game and interchanged places like Boardwalk with Capps, Cliff and Norm’s, Turner’s Coffee Shop, Alpha Xi Delta, etc. You knew you were really in trouble when you landed on “Chance” and were sent directly to Dean Coleman’s office. Kim ’69 and Brenda Andereck along with their son, Jack, live in San Antonio, Texas where Kim is CEO of Praxis Alliance, LLC. Dan Findley ’69 lives in Two Harbors, Minn. He is a retired science department chair and teacher for the Argo Community High School. Burton Schorr ’69 and his wife, Patricia are retired and live in Oregon, Ill. 1970’s Craig ’70 and Kathy (Dorstewitz) ’70 Elste have moved to Frisco, Texas. Craig is retired from Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. Dennis McMillan ’71 lives in Mason City, Iowa with his wife, Melody. They are both retired and they enjoy traveling, last year to Israel and Florida. They have four children living in Illinois, Florida and Alaska. They also have six grandchildren.
Bill Dever ’64 and his wife, Janet, moved to Cool, Calif. They are enjoying the weather there. Dayle (Lawrenz) Nelson ’66, Claudia (Lempera) Newman ’66, Sue (Stout) Ditchman ’66 and Karen (Ely) Sterling ’66 recently met in Florida for vacation fun. It was their fifth annual reunion and they spent time swimming, reminiscing, relaxing and playing a 60’s version of Monopoly, called
Toomey. Tuck played Willy Loman’s brother Ben in Death of A Salesman at the Pittsburg Public Theatre in April and May. Bill Christiansen ’72 recently retired from the DuPage County Health Department and moved to San Antonio, Texas. Douglas Fink ’72 recently moved to Tucson, Ariz. Tom ’73 and Susannah “Suz” (Schroeder) ’75 Caulley are retired and living in Spring Hill, Fla. They love traveling, they have been to Australia, China, England, Scotland, Ireland, France, Italy, Turkey, Egypt, Spain, Greece, Germany, Austria, Tunisia, Columbia, Panama and most of the Caribbean. Tom is into genealogy and has written 10 genealogical research aids and authored a genealogical newspaper column. Tom’s favorite quote is “Retirement, the best job I ever had.” Paul Jensen ’75 was promoted to GG-0201-11 at Headquarters Air Force Personnel Center, Joint Base San Antonio, Randolph AFB, Texas, serving Air Force bases worldwide on the DCIPS Team for recruitment and placement. Paul lives in Schertz, Texas. Robert (Bob) White ’75 and wife, Donna live in St. Inigoes, Md. They have three children, Aaron, Andrew, and Jill along with six grandchildren.
Tuck Milligan ’71 is an actor and lives in New York City, NY with his wife, Mary Ellen
Paul Costello ’76 of Liberty, Mo., was recently honored as the 2017 Distinguished Alumni of Trenton Junior College (North Central College) at the NCMC Foundation Celebration.
Spencer Yancey ’32 Wichita, Kans. • Jan. 9, 2017
Betty (Hummel) Bair ’43 Renton, Wash. • Oct. 16, 2016
Zetta (Craig) Harrison ’46 Pittsfield, Ill. • Dec. 6, 2016
M. Rosalee (Harris) Carskadon ’34 Foristell, Mo. • Jan. 7, 2017
Norma (Schmitt) Metz ’43 Meredosia, Ill. • Dec. 22, 2016
Clarendon Richert ’46 Savoy, Ill. • Feb. 28, 2017
Julia (Greenlaw) Revette ’36 Tacoma, Wash. • Feb. 12, 2017
Eugene Branson ’44 Rockledge, Fla. • Nov. 24, 2016
Shirley (Schlager) Wagner ’46 Kansas City, Mo. • Nov. 10, 2016
Dorothy (Porter) Baltrusch ’41 Scottsdale, Ariz. • Nov. 3, 2016
M. Evelyn (Rankin) Haskell ’44 Phoenix, Ariz. • Mar. 23, 2017
Raymond Gibble ’50 Sterling, Ill. • April 15, 2017
IN MEMORIAM
27 Chronicle, Summer 2017
CLASS NOTES
WEDDINGS
Deb (Cutforth) Young ’76 retired in 2014 after 33 years in teaching, most of which were spent as a district librarian coordinator at Roanoke-Benson schools in Roanoke, Ill. In 2016, Deb became the assistant to Simone Elkeles, NY Times and USA Today bestselling young adult author and is also coordinating events for Marilyn Reynolds, another wellknown young adult author. Deb also keeps busy with the Eureka Christian Church, a Disciples of Christ Church.
Melanie Gotschall ’07 was married on Aug. 28, 2015 to Michael Refuerzo. Melanie works as an occupational therapist for St. Anthony Hospital in Gig Harbor, Wash. and Michael is active duty in the Navy. Their daughter, Eriana Hope Refuerzo, was born on Nov. 18, 2016. They reside in Bremerton, Wash.
From left to right: Pamela Stone, Ann Liebig Hartman, Jean Roughton Hutton, Mary Yancey Luber (one of Melody’s original pledge class members), and Deb Cutforth Young, who represented the Chi Omega Class of 1976 at the painting dedication memorial.
Chi Omega class of 1976 members returned in the fall of 2016 to remember and reminisce about wonderful times on “the Hill.” There was sadness, however, mixed in with the remembered joys. While the alumni of ’76 enjoyed getting together again to celebrate our C-SC past and later life successes, there was another reason to come back to Cason Hall, the official name of the C-SC Chi-O House— to remember one of our own. Something very important had been on the hearts and minds of
Robert Rose ’50 Branson, Mo. • Oct. 3, 2016 C. Donald Stout ’50 Concord, Calif. • April 14, 2017 Alan Brumback ’51 Chesterfield, Mo. • Dec. 5, 2016 Vernon Flynn ’52 Mt. Sterling, Ill. • Mar. 10, 2017
Janae (Pearce) ’08 married Ryan McMahon on Aug. 6, 2016 in Gretna, Neb. Many Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority members attended the wedding festivities along with bridesmaid and CulverStockton alumna, Mandy (Day) House ’09. Janae has worked as a registered nurse for CHI Health since 2010 in Omaha, Neb. The couple continues to make their home in Gretna, Neb. Kelsey Stout ’10 married Steven Rinaudo ’10 on Aug. 20, 2016 in Quincy, Ill. Culver-Stockton alumni in the wedding included Kacie (Stout) Van Cleave ’05, Anna Hechler ’09, Dana (Sopher) Miller ’10 and Jennifer (Bohrer) Walker ’11. They reside in Susanville, Calif. where Kelsey is an RN for Banner Health.
Janae (Pearce) ’08 and Ryan McMahon
Kelsey (Stout)’10 and Steven Rinaudo
Dalton Bohan ’11 of Mendon, Illinois and Lisa Button ’14 of Adel, Iowa are thrilled to announce their engagement! The couple met on “the Hill” at Culver-Stockton College where they both studied accounting and finance. The bride-to-be is employed at Dot Foods, Inc. and the prospective groom is employed at Danielle Fleer, CPA. An October 21st wedding is planned and they can’t wait for the big day to arrive! They couldn’t be more thankful to God and C-SC for bringing them together. Leanne (Cary) ’12 and Cody James were married in 2015 and reside on the family farm in Hurdland, Mo. Leanne is the billing clerk for Tri-County Electric Cooperative in Lancaster, Mo.
Lisa Button ’14 and Dalton Bohan ’11
Tyler ’12 and BreAnna Muniz were married in 2015. For nearly two years they were traveling nurses in San Jose, Calif. and Tucson, Ariz. Tyler was the Team Lead of the Parent Aid Program for the Easter Seals Blake Foundation in Tuscon, Ariz. while also graduating from EMT school. They moved to Basehor, Kans. in 2017, and Tyler is working as a Multi-Site Coordinator for the YMCA’s Youth Development Program. He is also enrolled full-time in the Fire Academy and serves as a volunteer firefighter in Tonganoxie, Kans. Tyler and BreAnna Muniz ’12
culver.edu 28
CLASS NOTES these Mu Gamma sisters for a very long time, and that was the sudden and totally unexpected loss of their classmate and Chi Omega sister, Melody Ann Craven Redmond. Melody, or “Mel,” as she was affectionately called died tragically in her sleep just two years after graduation. With the fortieth graduation anniversary dawning, Melody’s Chi Omega classmates and sisters from the ’70’s wanted to remember her in a special way. Homecoming 2016 was also the time that the Mu Gamma Chi Omega chapter would be celebrating the remodeling of Cason Hall (actual name of the campus Chi Omega house), thanks to the generosity of alumni. This was the perfect time to make a special and long overdue commemoration of Melody’s special personality and commitment to her sisters and Chi Omega. Melody’s sisters settled upon a painting of thirteen owls in a tree to be dedicated in her memory and placed in the sorority house. The painting, by Evelin Sowash, is entitled Owls on Branches. At the top of the tree and closest to heaven is one white owl that seems to be “guarding” the other brown owls from her perch. By an uncanny, perhaps heavenlydirected coincidence, there were also thirteen girls in Melody’s original pledge class, thus sealing the choice of the painting as our tribute to her. An appropriate plaque was placed on the painting so that all future classes will know how special Melody was to Mu Gamma’s house, how much she loved Chi Omega and how much her sisters treasured her. The painting was presented and dedicated on Saturday, October 8, 2016 just after C-SC
President Kelly Thompson and Carla Boren ’83, spoke in front of a gathering at the Chi-O House to recognize both the significance of Cason Hall’s renovation, and of the many alumni that made it possible. Ann Liebig Hartman, president of the Chi Omega house in 1976, spoke for the class as she emotionally spoke about Melody. “She represented everything wonderful about being a Chi-O,” said Hartman. “Her humor, enthusiasm and love for everyone made knowing her so fun, and her presence brought sunshine into the entire house. I feel she is with us today.” The lovely, bright and exquisite autumn day could have easily been a day from the ’70’s as the painting was revealed and more quiet tears fell. For a brief moment, Melody Ann Craven Redmond was back at the Chi-O House, getting ready for rush week, going to active meetings, and making her sisters laugh through sorority time travel. Members of Mel’s class of 1976 who graduated with her are Karen (Hildebrant) Buckman, Joanne (Church) Conrad, Kim (Funk) Freiburg, Jeanne (Robinson) French, Ann (Liebig) Hartman, Jean (Roughton) Hutton, Sue (Lamme) Samp, Pamela Stone, Deb (Cutforth) Young, and Carolyn (Richards) Zimmerman. Rev. Laura (Loudon) McDonald ’78 recently earned her Master of Divinity from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and has been appointed as full time Pastor to Quercus Grove and Rising Sun United Methodist Churches, beginning July 1, 2017. Laura is an ordained Deacon in the UMC in transition
to ordained Elder. Her husband, Mark McDonald ’78, is retiring after 16 years as a Unix Systems Administrator with UPS. He has also played the Eb horn in the Commonwealth Brass Band. They were married June 5, 1977, the same day the music building at C-SC burned, 40 years ago. DeWayne ’78 and Maureen (Keller) Rucker ’78 are now retired. After being able to do whatever he wanted for one and a half years, DeWayne has gone back to working part time as a security guard at the new Federal Courthouse in Jefferson City. They have four grandchildren. Rev. William (B.T.) Mitchell ’79 is the pastor of the First Baptist Church in Stonington, Ill. Recently, his son, T. David Mitchell, was married in Nashville, Tenn.
Jim Person ’79 was re-elected in April to another four-year term as Chief of Police in Belton, Mo. He has worked for 37 years for the Belton Police Department, 29 years as Chief. In Dec. 2016, he was awarded Missouri Police Chief of The Year 2016. He resides in Belton with his wife of 34 years, Debbie.
IN MEMORIAM Bernard Parenteau ’52 Chicago, Ill. • Mar. 18, 2017
Fred Meyers ’62 Maywood, Mo. • Feb. 18, 2017
Larry Schafer ’65 Blairstown, Iowa • Jan. 24, 2017
Robert Steinmetz ’54 Barrington, Ill. • April 4, 2017
Sarah (McLaughlin) Plattner ’62 Pittsfield, Ill. • Jan. 20, 2017
Thomas Nilsson ’65 Minocqua, Wisc. • Jan. 23, 2017
Norman Loveland ’61 Kirkwood, Mo. • Jan. 12, 2017
Phyllis (Smock) Stevens ’62 Hannibal, Mo. • Oct. 10, 2016
John Ricci ’65 Martinez, Calif. • Mar. 17, 2017
Roger Stock ’61 Seagoville, Texas • Jan. 12, 2017
William McAllister ’64 Galesburg, Mich. • Feb. 1, 2017
John Varga ’65 River Grove, Ill. • Dec. 30, 2016
29 Chronicle, Summer 2017
CLASS NOTES
LEGACIES
1980’s Kent Llewellyn ’80 and his wife, Deborah, have moved to Lyons, Ill. He is a supply chain manager for Manroland Web Systems.
Rodney ’05 and Jessica (Schriner) ’05 Donahue welcomed a daughter, Hannah Cadence Donahue, on September 2, 2016. Hannah joins big sister Rachel Madelynne Donahue. The Donahues live in Amarillo, Tex.
Fred East ’82 is an account manager for Healthcare Services in Raytown, Mo. His wife, Gayle, passed away on March 9 after a battle with ALS, “Lou Gehrig’s disease.” Bill Knittig ’83 is the Director of Service Coordination for the Jefferson County Developmental Disabilities Resources Port in Herculaneum, Mo. Bill and his wife, Dana, reside in Arnold, Mo. Dr. Reginald Smith ’84 was appointed director of the offices of Race Relations and Social Justice for the Christian Reformed Church in North America on Feb. 28. He lives with his wife, Sharon, in Grand Rapids, Mich. Deborah (Munoz) Riddle ’87 and her husband, Jim, recently celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary. They reside in Greenville, Ill. where Deborah continues to substitute teach. Their children Laura and Andrew are both in college. Brack Collier ’88 was selected as a full-time faculty member at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. He will be teaching in the College of Business and developing a course sequence in corporate social responsibility. Brack’s Juris Doctorate was conferred by the School of Law, Rutger’s University, N.J. Brack and his wife, Samantha, have a son, John.
Randy ’06 and Sara (Bill) ’07 Aguiar are parents of a son, Geovany William Aguiar born December 14, 2016. They live in Phoenix, Ariz. Ryan Mancini ’06 and his wife, Mallory, are parents of a daughter, Penelope “Poppy” Rose Mancini on November 14, 2016. They reside in St. Louis, Mo. Percy ’04 and Tamika Thomas have two children, Caleb and Cyndee, and reside in Chicago, Ill. where Percy is the financial manager for the City of Chicago. Adrian ’07 and Jessica (Vargus) ’07 Cummings are parents of a son, Graysen, born on September 19, 2016. Jessica has accepted a new teaching position at Shepard Boulevard Elementary with Columbia Public Schools in Columbia, Mo. She completed her education specialist degree in administration in 2015. Adrian is a special education teacher at Southern Boone High School. He is the varsity head coach for middle school football and varsity head coach for high school boys track. Jordin Luthenauer ’12 and Brice Franke welcomed a son, Hank Alan Luthenauer, born on July 7, 2016. Jordin is a Deputy Juvenile Officer for the 2nd Judicial Circuit in Missouri. Jordan, Brice, Hailey and Hank live in Baring, Mo.
Buzz Carder ’66 Dunedin, Fla. • Mar. 9, 2017 Jay Doran ’67 Lake Ozark, Mo. • Dec. 6, 2016 Mervyn Williamson ’67 Woodstock, Ga. • Mar. 16, 2017 Jay Zimmerman ’67 Crossville, Tenn. • Feb. 19, 2017
Geovany Aguiar
Caleb and Cyndee Thomas
Jessica (Vargus) ’07, Graysen and Adrian Cummings
Ryann and Rylee Setzer
Ryann and Rylee Setzer are twin granddaughters of Chris Huebotter ’82, Registrar at C-SC. Steve ’09 and Samantha (Miles) Kerr ’09 are parents of a son, Camden, born November 17, 2016. Steve is the Middle School Principal in Palmyra, Mo. where they reside.
Camden Kerr
culver.edu 30
CLASS NOTES Continent Public Library in Excelsior Springs, one of more than 30 branches in the MidContinent Public Library system. Michelle teaches science in the North Kansas City School District.
Tim Fischer ’89 was named President of Medical Doctor Associates a subsidiary of Cross Country Healthcare, Inc., a national leader in providing leading-edge healthcare workforce solutions. Tim, his wife, Jane, and sons, Grant and Austin, have relocated to Alpharetta, Ga. Last fall, Tim had the opportunity to ring the closing bell on NASDAQ in New York City. Eric Tinley ’89 resigned his assistant volleyball coaching position at Princeton (Ill.) High School after 28 years, finishing with a record of 437 wins, 225 losses and 23 ties. His career was highlighted with three undefeated seasons and six NCIC championships at the freshman and sophomore levels. Tinley also earned his 300th win as Boys’ Freshman Basketball Coach. 1990’s At the First Responders Day at the Missouri State Capitol April 5, 2017, Captain Jerry Washam ’90 of the Moberly Fire Department and State Representative Bryan Spencer ’90 Wentzville, old college roommates of Ziegler Hall got a chance to reconnect and talk about the good old days at C-SC.
Bryan Spencer’90 and Jerry Washam ’90
Darren Mosley ’93 was named Silver Medallion Teacher of the Year. Darren teaches math and physics at Southwestern High School in Godfrey, Ill. He is also an adjunct mathematics instructor at Lewis and Clark Community College.
Roger Woodard ’92 was appointed the inaugural director of the online data science master’s program for the University of Notre Dame. Roger joins Notre Dame after 14 years at North Carolina State University. He earned a Ph.D. in statistics from the University of Missouri. He has won numerous teaching awards and most recently was named an N.C. State Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor.
Kathy (Kaimann) Heitman ’96 and family reside in Old Monroe, Mo. She recently accepted a position at Parr & Jones CPAs LLC in Lake Saint Louis, Mo.
Eric ’93 and Michelle (Souders) Copeland ’95 live with their two sons, Michael and Caleb, in Excelsior Springs, Mo. Eric is the branch programming coordinator at the Mid-
*Notes submitted from May 1 to Nov. 30 will appear in the winter issue each year. Notes submitted from Dec. 1 to April 30 will appear in the spring issue each year.
SUBMIT YOUR CLASS NOTE ONLINE AT CULVER.EDU/ALUMNI. CLICK ON “CLASS NOTES” IN THE LEFT-HAND NAVIGATION.
IN MEMORIAM E. Glenn Wedding ’68 Lexington, S.C. • Oct. 3, 2016
Mark Hamilton ’84 Huntsville, Al. • April 20, 2017
Debra Brunk ’03 Canton, Mo. • Dec. 19, 2016
Rodney Falkinburg ’70 Barnegat, N.J. • Dec. 12, 2016
Kathy (Reeves) Howard ’85 Aurora, Co. • Dec. 22, 2016
Former Faculty and Staff
Richard Weir ’72 Houston, Texas • Jan. 18, 2017
Tandra Murphy ’85 Virden, Ill. • Nov. 15, 2016
Robert Biehl ’74 O’Fallon, Ill. • Mar. 23, 2017
Steven Leenerts ’87 Clayton, Ill. • Nov. 23, 2016
David Whitacre ’78 Hooksett, N.H. • Nov. 17, 2016
Melissa (Berreitter) Curran ’88 Wheeling, Ill. • Nov. 21, 2016
Paul Stewart ’79 Canton, Mo. • Jan. 30, 2017
Delaine (Hall) Elmore ’90 Bartonville, Ill. • Dec. 9, 2016
James Turke ’79 Macomb, Ill. • Feb. 8, 2017
Darrell Chillion ’92 Durham, Mo. • Feb. 8, 2017
Susan (Walz) Hardee ’83 Leesburg, Ga. • Jan. 21, 2017
Betty Louderman ’02 Hannibal, Mo. • Jan. 28, 2017
31 Chronicle, Summer 2017
Mary Horne Former Administrative Assistant to Academic Dean Jefferson City, Mo. • Jan 27, 2017 Patricia (Priebe) LaCount Former Physical Plant Staff LaGrange, Mo. • Feb. 17, 2017 Gary Lupardus ’71 Former Physical Plant Staff Canton, Mo. • May 5, 2017 Mary Eunice (Stephenson) McReynolds ’45 Former Business Faculty Canton, Mo. • Mar. 18, 2017
CLASS NOTES Dr. Barbara (Hendrix) Ybarra ’96 received her Ed.D. in Educational Administration in December, 2016 from Lamar University where she was the recipient of the Jane Irons Dissertation of the Year. Barbara and her husband, Mark, live in Iola, Texas with their three children, Charlie, 15, Bryan, 11, and Mykayla, 8. Barbara is the associate superintendent for the Bryan ISD in Bryan, Texas. Christine (Davis) Baker ’97 has been promoted to assistant vice president at First Bankers Trust Co. in Quincy, Ill. Baker has certifications in fiduciary & investment risk specialist by the Cannon Financial Institute, BSA/AML professional, bank internal auditor and community bank compliance officer. Christine lives with her family in Durham, Mo. Julie (Parker) Goodwill ’99 and her husband, Sherman, live in Fulton, Mo. Julie is a project accountant for Exponent. Robert Pineda ’99 is the owner of RP Wireless in Orange, Calif. He lives in Placentia, Calif. 2000’s Michael Schmidt ’00 is an ordained pastor within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and is minister at the Christian Church (DOC) in Nebraska City, Neb. Michael serves as the New Church Establishment Chair for the Region (Nebraska). Josh Teschner ’01 was named softball coach at William Fremd High School in Palatine, Ill. Josh has been teaching at Fremd since 2004. He was previously an assistant football and golf coach. Amy (Ward) Williams ’01 recently moved to a new job as executive director for the East Central Police and Fire Dispatch Center, an eight-city police and fire dispatch center bordering the city of St. Louis, serving the cities of Brentwood, Clayton, Maplewood, Olivette, Richmond Heights, Rock Hill, Shrewsbury and Webster Groves, Mo. Amy and her husband, J.V. and two sons live in O’Fallon, Mo. Ryan Christian ’03, along with Michele Wilkerson, opened Grown ’N Gathered featuring locally grown food and Electric Fountain Brewing Company, a coffee bean roastery in Quincy, Ill.
Abigail Lehman ’03 recently celebrated thirteen years with the Missouri State Highway Patrol Crime Laboratory as a Criminalist in Drug Chemistry. She is an active member of the Midwestern Association of Forensic Scientists. Abby is currently serving as the Fall Meeting Committee Chair and as a member of the Ethics and Electronic Communications Committees. Dr. Beth (Zeidler) Schreiter ’04 is a clinical psychologist at Access Community Health Centers in Madison, Wisc. She is also the Chief Behavioral Health Officer overseeing all primary care behavioral health services and integration. Beth and her husband, Bryan, have two children, Colin and Connor, and live in Madison, Wisc. Gerald Tranquille ’05 has been named head football coach and athletic director for Vernon High School in Vernon, Fla. Gerald and Ashley (Thomas) ’07 live in Bristol, Fla., with their two sons. Becca (Casterline) Harris ‘06 and her husband Brady live in Grand Canyon, Ariz. with their two daughters, Delilah Joann (3 years old) and Wendy Louise (one year old). Becca is mostly a stay-at-home mom for both girls, but works a few days a week in customer service for Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters. Bricelda Vazquez ’06 is a case manager for Heartland Alliance in Chicago, Ill.
Several alumni in Arizona recently gathered to celebrate the third birthday of Cormac VanCleave (bottom left). Pictured (left to right) Pete ’06 and Kacie (Stout) ’05 VanCleave with children, Cormac and Harper; Aaron ’08 and Tara (Amen) ’07 Moore and daughter, Autumn; Kellen Craig ’07; Sara (Bill) ’07 and Randy Aguiar ’06 and son, Geovany; Shannon and Brendan Mann ’06 and children, Delaney and Quinn.
Michael ’08 and Crystal (Epley) ’09 Zehnle live in Quincy, Ill. with their three children, Rylan, age 6, and twin daughters, Emersyn and Everly, ages 2. Crystal works as the Digital Marketing and Social Media Manager for Rethink Media Group in Quincy, and Michael works for Knapheide Manufacturing as an account manager. Ryan ’09 and Amber (Roach) Stockreef ’10 reside in Columbia, Mo. Amber is the Interdivisional Children’s Services Coordinator for the State of Missouri, Department of Mental Health in Jefferson City, Mo. Ryan currently works for Veteran’s United Home Loans as a Funding Documents Coordinator. 2010’s Spencer McKeown ’12 has been promoted to consumer and mortgage lending officer at First Bankers Trust Co. in Quincy, Ill. where he resides. Brittany Unger ’13 is a teen development specialist for the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale in Peach Springs, Ariz. Brittany lives in Kingman, Ariz. Emma VanArsdale ’13 was recently promoted to editor at the Hancock County Journal-Pilot in Carthage, Ill. She was recently engaged to Brice Baker ‘11 to be married on April 7, 2018. She resides in Quincy, Ill. Christian “Slade” Myers ’15 completed requirements for the Masters of Medieval Studies at the University of Lincoln, England. He has been accepted into the Army Officer Candidate School and will report to Fort Benning, Ga. Randi Lee Plunkett ’16 and McKenzie Shrader ’16 were recognized as two of Missouri’s Outstanding Beginning Teachers. Randi Lee teaches English/Language Arts at Palmyra (Mo.) Middle School and McKenzie teaches math at Canton R-V (Mo.) Elementary School. THE CHRONICLE IS NOW DIGITALLY AVAILABLE ON
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NEW FACES
introducing
MELISSA & EMILY
Melissa DuBuque Walther ’88 returned to her alma mater this summer as the Director of Alumni Programs. She graduated from Culver-Stockton College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Maryville University. The saying goes “home is where your heart is,” and Walther says after graduating and traveling across Missouri, her heart is happiest on the sidewalk between the freshman dorm and Henderson Hall, overlooking the beautiful Mississippi River. In the past, her soul was recharged after visiting with fellow alums, visiting campus and meeting current students, but now she is back home. She looks forward to sustaining and helping improve the place many call home.
C-SC’S NEW DEVELOPMENT OFFICER & DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI PROGRAMS
When kids are asked what they want to be when they grow up typically the answer is not ‘development officer,’ and Emily Gillett was no different. However, now she cannot imagine doing anything else. Gillett joined the advancement team on February 20 to assist the College with fundraising efforts, primarily in the St. Louis area. She comes to “the Hill” from Spoon River College, a two-year junior college in Canton, Ill., where she spent nine years as an Institutional Advancement Coordinator. Gillett chose to go into development because she loves planning, finances and meeting new people. Her favorite thing during her time at the College has been meeting alumni and hearing stories about how C-SC changed their lives.
OR HOMECOMING 2017 JOIN US F
SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 1 TO REGISTER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, GO TO
CULVER.EDU/HOMECOMING
33 Chronicle, Summer 2017
W ONLINE E N
MASTER OF EDUCATION The new M.Ed. program will launch in the fall semester which begins August 21.
WHY AN M.ED.?
The Master in Education degree program is tailored for practicing teachers in the classroom. The classes are offered completely online in 8-week terms during the fall, spring and summer semesters. The program is designed to be completed in two years but students who want to accelerate that can take a full-time course load and complete it in as little as a year. The uniqueness of the program stems in the objective of continuing to grow classroom teachers professionally for the challenges and opportunities in education. The coursework is intended to be applied to the profession in the classroom at the same time. For more information visit culver.edu/graduate, call 573-537-1883 or contact Dr. Diana King at dking@culver.edu or Brandon Crisp ’07, Online and Graduate Admission Coordinator, at graduate@culver.edu. Danielle Wade ’14
culver.edu 34
Culver-Stockton College One College Hill Canton, MO 63435
Parents: If this issue is addressed to your son or daughter who no longer maintains a permanent address at home, please notify the Advancement Office at 800-755-CATS or at advancement@culver.edu.
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MABEE CHALLENGE GRANT AWARDED
The J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation has issued Culver-Stockton a $400,000 project completion challenge grant to raise funds for the construction of the Carolyn L. & Robert W. Brown Residence Hall. The Culver-Stockton community is challenged to raise $400,000 by April 2018. We hope you make the decision to support this exciting project and remember, the impact of your gift will be magnified through this exciting challenge!
PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT AND JOIN THE CHALLENGE! culver.edu/giving or call 800-755-2287. 35Visit Chronicle, Summer 2017
Larry Gorrell ’69, Ron Leftwich ’64, President Kelly Thompson, Tony Crane ’74 and Mike Bringer ’93
Thank you for your support!