This Wildcat family is no stranger to hardships, yet Greg and Jennifer Leftwich say mindset is a choice, and theirs will remain positive. After all, they are on a mission to live a great story.
FEATURES
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Homecoming Students, alumni and friends of the College gathered on “the Hill” October 22-24, 2022 to “Bring on the Blue” in celebration of Homecoming 2022!
Greg and Jennifer (Brown) Leftwich ‘90 share their story of changing their mindset to overcoming life’s greatest challenges which allowed them to “Live a Great Story.”
Celebrated for their distinguished level of success in their profession and outstanding leadership, while bringing honor to Culver-Stockton College, meet the newest Wildcats inducted into the Culver-Stockton College Hall of Fame.
Leadership was redefined as C.J. Davis ‘94 was asked by his basketball coach to show up differently for his teammates. Learn how his role as a Wildcat led to his impact today as a behavioral health leader.
The Magazine of Culver-Stockton College
Winter 2023
The Culver-Stockton Chronicle is published by the C-SC Marketing and Public Relations Office for alumni and friends to read about campus happenings while providing insight into the mission and philosophy of the College.
Alyssa Hummel
Director of Communications and Marketing
Jayla Heindselman
Graphic Designer
Cheyenne Blackorby ’17
Senior Multimedia Designer
CAMPUS LEADERSHIP
Dr. Douglas B. Palmer
President
Pat Atwell
Director of Athletics
Dr. Belle Cowden
Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies
Adam J. Duesterhaus ’06
Vice President for Advancement
Cindy Freels
Senior Assistant to the President
Dr. Kim Gaither ’79
Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success
Alyssa Hummel
Director of Communications and Marketing
Dr. Angie Royal
Vice President of Student Experience
Dr. Lauren Schellenberger
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Leslie Sieck
Vice President for Economic and Workforce Development and Executive Director of the Tri-State Development Summit
Julie Straus ’97
Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Culver-Stockton College
One College Hill
Canton, MO 63435
culver.edu
In 1853, our founders chartered Christian University, the first higher education institution west of the Mississippi River to educate both young men and young women of promise. Even then, they understood the value of diversity in education and that relationships built would develop successful leaders for the future. Our path toward building a diverse College has not been straight, and often we have missed steps. But we continue to work to provide a robust and values-based educational experience for all students of promise.
This year we celebrate 170 years of diverse relationships that have occurred on “the Hill.” Our mission is found in those student-professor relationships that develop young minds, student relationships built while playing on an athletic field or traveling abroad, and in donor relationships such as those of Mary Culver and Robert Stockton – relationships so meaningful that the name of the college was changed to reflect their significance.
These relationships also make us happier and contribute to our wellness. We are only beginning to understand how important having diverse relationships is to our physical and mental well-being. Every day, we encounter people who make our individual worlds better, easier, healthier, and happier. For me, it is one of our employees in dining services who makes sure that my favorite macadamia nut cookies are on the dessert cart. For the College there are those who contribute major gifts or small gifts, which go to our Student Scholarship Fund to help the next generation of diverse students of promise to grow and flourish with the benefit of a Culver-Stockton education. In doing so, we all live in a better world.
As long as Culver-Stockton College continues to build positive, diverse relationships founded upon the best values of faith and the human spirit, I am confident that it will stand for at least 170 more years.
Best wishes in the new year,
Dr. Douglas B. Palmer PresidentPresident Palmer met with Missouri representative Sam Graves in Washington, DC, to share how C-SC is contributing to Missouri and midwestern workforce development with high-demand programs like supply chain management, agribusiness management, and computer science.
The executive leadership team at C-SC welcomed two new members this past summer. Dr. Belle Cowden was announced as Dean of Graduate and Professional Studies. Her extensive experience will be valuable as she works to grow graduate and online programs. Alumnus Adam Duesterhaus ’06 returned to “the Hill” as the Vice President for Advancement. He will lead the fundraising efforts for the College. Welcome to C-SC, Belle and Adam!
C-SC employees and a few Wildcat alumni participated in “Campus Blue-tification” to clean up the campus in preparation for the start of a new semester. Tasks included grounds maintenance, painting residence halls, and general cleaning. Thank you to everyone who pitched in to help prepare the campus for move-in!
The newest class of Wildcats arrived on “the Hill” on August 19 and participated in the time-honored tradition of matriculation. They were led by faculty to the steps of Johnson Residence Hall, they signed the student covenant, were officially welcomed into the College by President Palmer, and were reminded of their investment by Chairman Leftwich. The following day, over 300 Wildcats took to the streets of Canton to serve the Canton community for EDM (Everyone Doing More)!
The Admission Office selected the 2022-23 Wildcat Ambassadors and these current students will serve as tour guides for all college visits. Congratulations to these student representatives!
There is something magical about sunsets on “the Hill,” and the first football game offered a picturesque view for every Wildcat in the stands.
On August 31, students found community at the Student Involvement Fair when 30+ student organizations gathered to recruit interested students for the year ahead!
The Wildcat Women’s Volleyball team celebrated their most successful season in ten years, led by Coach Levi Pollreisz in his first season. The team placed five players on the 2022 Heart of America Athletic Conference All-Conference women’s volleyball team, and senior Madison McClain ’23 was named NAIAAVCA All-American Honorable Mention. Congratulations, Wildcats!
Quarterback Jase Orndorff ’23 was named Heart of America Player of the Week twice throughout the regular season for his contributions to the Wildcats on the field. Way to go, Jase!
The Education Department hosted their annual fall miniconference, which featured hands-on workshops led by Wildcats currently teaching in the classroom. This year’s theme was Art Therapy, and each guest presenter taught an experiential lesson that could be adapted to a K-12 classroom.
C-SC is connected in a new way this year using an app called “Wildcats Connect.” This platform allows students, faculty, and staff to notify the campus of events, opportunities, and student groups. Wildcats Connect has increased attendance at events, streamlined communication, and even aided with event check-in. Find it on the app store by searching Wildcats Connect and follow along to see what is happening on “the Hill.”
The Department of Theatre opened its season with a production of A.R. Gurney’s “The Dining Room,” which told the story of a typical well-to-do household and the countless conversations that take place around the dinner table throughout time.
Twelve education students served as guest readers in every Pre K-6 grade classroom at Canton R-V in early October to celebrate United Way’s Day of Caring. Wildcats led classroom discussions about helping others, and the elementary students were gifted the book they heard by the Kiwanis Club of Canton.
US Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) visited campus in October to meet with first-generation students, educators, and area leaders to discuss the importance of Pell grants and the opportunities for more students to make higher education available. He applauded the C-SC Opportunity Scholarship initiative, which covers full tuition for students from Lewis and Knox counties.
Through our Moorman Professorship, and in collaboration with the Black Student Union, we welcomed alumnus Thomas Elliott ’77 to empower several groups of students with his inspiring story. He shared his experience as an investment analyst, attorney, and real estate advisor.
The best conversations take place when gathered around a table! Faculty and staff smile for a photo before serving students the annual Thanksgiving meal during finals week. Students appreciate participating in this Wildcat tradition to celebrate the season’s blessings!
President and Mrs. Palmer led the way with our “Willie Big Frosty” float at the Canton Lighted Parade on December 1st to kick off the holiday season. Students wore Holiday on the Hill shirts and passed out coloring sheets and candy to parade-goers. The float was followed by the Thrill on the Hill marching band, and the acapella group sang Christmas carols as the tree was lit in Canton’s Central Park.
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced the 2022-23 Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athletes in December. Culver-Stockton College featured 22 football, 17 women’s volleyball, eight men’s soccer, and eight women’s volleyball recipients on the list. To be recognized, the student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, must appear on the eligibility certificate for the sport, and have attended one full year at the said institution.
Fifteen members of the C-SC football team earned spots on the 2022 Heart of America Athletic Conference All-North Division Team. Defensively, the Wildcats placed four players on the All-North Division team, including two first-team selections. Offensively, C-SC placed six players on the all-conference team, with all six players earning secondteam honors. One other player earned all-conference recognition on special teams, and four others received honorable mention accolades.
Senior Madison McClain ’23 was named to the team as an honorable mention selection, becoming the first Wildcat to be named to the All-America team since 2015. An outside hitter from Otterville, Missouri, she led the Heart of America Athletic Conference in total kills (405), kills per set (3.82), and total attacks (1,222) this season.
The Wildcat Women’s soccer team was awarded the NAIA Sportsmanship Award for their display of the five core character values of Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Sportsmanship and Servant Leadership.
“This award was developed by the Heart Association of Student-Athletes (HASA) and I am proud to see this award recognized for a second-straight year across the conference,” said Heart of America Athletic Conference Commissioner Lori Thomas. “Under head coach Tyler Tomlinson ’03, the Wildcats are very deserving of this award.”’
The second-annual Holiday on the Hill was a success as we welcomed 150+ community members to the Mabee Center Gymnasium. Events included games, crafts, holiday stories read by students, cookie decorating, and photos with Santa Claus! We are thankful for the collaborative efforts of several student organizations, the Palmer Family, and Public Relations in welcoming the community to campus for this annual event.
U.S. News and World Report released its list of “2023 Best Colleges and Universities,” and Culver-Stockton College earned three prestigious rankings among midwest colleges, one of which landed them the number nine placement. C-SC ranked #9 for Social Mobility in Midwest Colleges, an increase of eight spots over last year’s ranking and 28 total spots from the 2021 rankings.
Ranked #26 for Best Midwest Regional College, C-SC increased eight spots from the 2022 rankings on this comprehensive measure. The midwest region represents colleges from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
In December, twenty-two Wildcats packed their suitcases and set out for a rainforest expedition to explore tropical ecology and environmental history. Led by Dr. Scott Giltner and Dr. Lauren Schellenberger, this travel study experience would mark the sixth anniversary of this expedition for Culver-Stockton College. Giltner said since the expedition began in 2010 and travels in alternative years, to date, nearly 130 students have experienced the Belize and Guatemala trip. He shared, “This is a great opportunity for students to experience the world and expand their horizons, which I think is invaluable. Selfishly, for me, it’s a great opportunity to do something really engaging with students and build a community.” Giltner explained that the group that forms from these expeditions becomes something of a family and, most times, will stay connected for years to come.
Throughout their fourteen days in Central America, the group hiked volcanoes, explored coffee plantations, and climbed Mayan temples before finishing their travels in Belize with time in the rainforest and on an island off the coast. There, students explored marine habitats, rainforests, and coral reefs.
Senior Abby Done ’23 was most anticipating the travel because she had never traveled internationally. She said the 12-week class allowed her to secure a passport while gaining firsthand knowledge of environmental history. During the 3-week session, she connected classroom knowledge to real-world learning. She said, “This class has given me the opportunity to learn about different cultures while experiencing tropical ecology. We get to travel to see rainforests, and coral reefs, meet different people and eat new foods, and that’s awesome.”
Junior Brianna Eissman ’24 relished every moment on and off the field during ESPN’s Bowl Week in Boca Raton, Florida. The knowledge she captured in the classroom prepared her for the event, but the resiliency she gained during her week of on-on-the-job training, will set her apart for years to come. “The most eye-opening thing I learned about event management is you have to be flexible because there will be obstacles and things won’t always go as planned.”
In 2018, Culver-Stockton College alumnus Doug Mosley ’85 connected the Sport and Event Management departments to the ESPN Boca Raton Bowl. This dynamic travel study opportunity provides students the ability to work alongside professionals in Sport Managment and Event Managment while college football championship games take place. C-SC students assist in every aspect of the week-long event including press conferences, welcome activities, pep rallies, band competitions, field security, field organizaton, vendor management, social media, and even the trophy presentation! This year, twelve students and two faculty members played a major role in the Liberty University versus Toledo Rockets NCAA game. Mr. Dan Mahoney, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management, appreciates the variety of learning activities that Wildcats participate in during the travel experience because the fast paced environment is challenging to simulate in the classroom. He said, “The students get an amazing look into every aspect of the bowl game and gain an understanding of all the people and organizations that need to work together to pull off an event of this size. I believe this experience gives them a greater appreciation for their chosen career field.”
Every semester since 2005, Culver-Stockton College has offered the course “Religion in America.” To date, over 1,000 Wildcats have completed this course, and Dr. Andy Walsh has proudly taught many of the classes. Upon completion, participants will have created a journal of material learned and opinions on how religion shaped American history and, ultimately, the Disciples of Christ (DOC) church.
Dr. Walsh shared that this course is repeatedly one of his favorite classes to teach because he enjoys reviewing the students’ reflections. Walsh said that after reading hundreds of journal entries, he learned that the most powerful grasp of knowledge occurs during religious site visits. Toward the end of the course, students traveled to St. Louis to participate in a melting pot of religious cultures. During the travel study, Wildcats gained first-hand knowledge as they toured worship centers and met with religious leaders, asking questions. Tour locations included the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, the Buddhist Center, the Hindu Temple of St. Louis, the Islamic Foundation of Greater St. Louis, and a meeting with Rabbi Rosenberg at the United Hebrew Congregation.
Dr. Walsh shared that, sadly, our worldviews of religions are clouded by stereotypes, but site visits like these provide opportunities to overcome and reverse negative thought patterns. One student wrote, “My first encounter with Islam was life-transforming. Before this experience, I would make fun of the Islamic religion at how they dressed and talked. After going to the Islamic center, I now have a different outlook on them and a broader understanding of the Islamic tradition. At first, I thought it was a bit funny how they prayed. After hearing about how they pray five times a day, I became overwhelmed and became interested in how they were so committed to God. After watching how they pray in action, I felt uplifted with spirit wanting to know more and more.”
The opportunity to spend time with CEOs, corporate managers, leaders, and even the founder of Ring Doorbell is different from the typical college class experience. Thanks to Dr. Dell Ann Janney ’87, students in her Corporate Experience class were able to learn from business leaders to understand better what they may encounter when they enter the workforce.
During the 3-week class, students met with leaders from U.S. Wellness Meats (Canton, MO.), DOT Foods (Mount Sterling, IL), Food Service Direct (Quincy, IL), Refreshment Services Pepsi (Quincy, IL), interviewed Ring Doorbell founder Jamie Siminoff (Virtual). Freshman Isaac Ellison ’26 served as the group’s photographer and said he was surprised to learn how many many multi-million dollar companies started in the back of a car and have grown to 14 different countries all over the world! He said, “I enjoyed the Corporate Experience class because we could learn about the companies before visiting them. Then, when we arrived on site, we learned first-hand from the professionals. Through conversation, we learned that many of these companies provide internship opportunities to students, which can lead to greater experiences.”
If technology is the way of the future, Education majors got a first-hand view when they toured Knox County Schools in December as part of the Content Literacy, Tests and Measurements courses. The rural school district has been recognized for its innovation in transforming an old school bus into a cafe, transitioning to electric buses, and facilitating its classrooms with 1:1 Apple education technology. This unique problem-solving methodology in action gave our students an interesting perspective on how to rethink content literacy and classroom management. C-SC future educators met with administrators to learn more about implementation, tests, and measurements and to ask questions regarding the next steps in their own educational journeys.
Culver-Stockton freshman Will Owen’s tattered hat is full of holes.
To some, it may look well past its prime, but for the Wildcats shotgun sports member, the shreds of frayed fabric symbolize victory.
Owen was wearing the hat the day he shot a perfect round as part of the college’s new program. As the sport’s tradition would have it, when a team member scores a perfect round, he or she takes the hat off, throws it in the air and the other members of the squad are invited to shoot it up. What’s left is an unconventional trophy -- a special keepsake rooted in tradition.
Much like the celebratory hat ritual for shotgun sports, Culver-Stockton was built on customs developed over 170 years.
A new sport added to the athletic lineup at the College serves as both a tribute to the heritage and an exciting opportunity for fresh beginnings.
Head coach Brenden Mowen started building the co-ed program and his team soon after he joined the coaching staff in January 2022.
“We compete in American trap, American skeet and sporting clays,” Mowen said. “We’re shotgun only. Everything we shoot at is always a moving target.”
Mowen brings decades of personal shotgun sporting experience to his position. He traveled with the Quincy Quivering Clays to state and national shoots, and attended Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri, on a shooting scholarship. As a member of the LU shotgun team, the university captured the Collegiate National Championship two years in a row.
As the first season at Culver-Stockton began in the fall of 2022, the inaugural team is comprised of Owen, a fellow freshman, James Stutheit, and junior Lawren Ruths, who brought home the team’s first victory in both an individual event (sporting clays) as well as being female HOA (high overall) shooter at the event.
“Our athletes have done a great job with competing as individuals at these events,” he said. “Watching my athletes, who struggled in practice in the beginning, grow to be very successful only two months later, it’s been very joyful.”
As he continues to grow the program, Mowen has turned his focus to recruiting efforts by attending local youth shoots and college fairs. He is also busy securing locations for the team to use for practice in the off-season. The program received a grant from MFA Oil to purchase a portable sporting clay machine, which offered additional training in target shooting.
As a first-time coach developing a program still in its infancy, Mowen said he has been struck by the unity the team seamlessly developed and is grateful to be a part of something that brings him so much joy.
“It really means the world to me,” he said. “It goes without saying that shooting is my passion. It’s what I’ve been passionate about for a lot of my life.”
His goal, he explained, is to show the collegiate shooting world that Culver-Stockton is here to compete. And there will be many more hats like Owen’s destined to become part of the college’s shotgun sports history.
Experiential learning, innovation, and service come together when C-SC’s future educators provide Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) Days on campus to area youth.
On a few occasions when Canton R-V schools were not in session, two things occurred at Culver-Stockton College: elementary school kids filled the third floor of Henderson Hall, and STEAM was everywhere! Our forward-thinking Education Department hosted cost-free “STEAM Education Days” for Canton students, providing hands-on experiences combining science, technology, engineering, art, and math for kindergarten through sixth-grade kids.
Associate Professor of Education, and Chair of the Education Department, Dr. Cindy Whiston, said there were many reasons to launch the program this year. Still, the main factors were to benefit the community and the C-SC students equally. Whiston said,
“We are always looking for more opportunities to utilize new skill sets, especially regarding STEAM education. Planning these dates when Canton had teacher work days was a great way to help local parents and provide our C-SC students with hands-on training.”
-DR. CINDY WHISTON ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF EDUCATIONEach STEAM Day incorporates a theme like weather or transportation. Building off the theme, C-SC Education majors plan lessons to engage the students in various problemsolving techniques across campus. Participants utilized a parachute in the Mabee Center, visited the campus TV station, flew a plane across the quad, constructed a boat that floated on the water while withstanding the weight of copper, and made new connections while working in teams!
The events began in the fall, and each event has drawn slightly more students than previous ones. Students show up expecting a fun day of games, building, and adventures.
“It was rewarding to watch our students interact with the K-6 students during STEAM Days because they think they are here just to have a fun time at the College, we know that every activity they are doing has a learning objective built into it.”
-DR. LINDSAY UHLMEYER ‘04 ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF EDUCATIONThis is the first year the Education Department has hosted STEAM events, but they said they plan to grow the program in the coming years, continuing to serve the Canton community when the school district has teacher in-service days. For more information regarding upcoming STEAM Days, contact Cindy Whiston at cwhiston@culver.edu.
“It means everything to be back on “the Hill!” Robin Taylor ’78 said with a smile as she walked through the Mabee Center doors. After three years of altered reunions, Wildcats were eager to gather for an entire weekend of Homecoming activities. Setting the theme for homecoming 2022 was established by vote. Current students, alumni, and employees were invited to participate through online voting. After the ballots were counted, Wildcats decided to “Bring on the Blue” during October 22-24, 2022, for the 98th celebration of homecoming in Canton.
Shades of blue, including “Wildcat Royal” were on display as we celebrated fifty years of women in sports during halftime of the football game; “Heritage Navy” was prominent as we inducted members into the Top of the Hill Society and honored distinguished alumni at the Alumni Honors Banquet. Throughout the weekend the hillside was sprinkled with blue and white as Wildcats from all generations met with one common goal: celebrating love for Culver-Stockton College.
Whether it was the parade, a reunion, or meaningful conversations on the quad, the events drew large packs of Wildcats to “the Hill” for Homecoming. “It’s so good to be back on campus for a full Homecoming and to hug friends you haven’t seen in years,” Jason Richmond ’03 said. Homecoming 2021 was limited to outdoor activities, but this year everyone fully reconnected, celebrated relationships, honored traditions and showcased their Wildcat spirit. For the first time in quite a while, our breathtaking campus displayed exuberant amounts of pride for the white and blue.
This Wildcat family is no stranger to hardships, yet they say mindset is a choice, and theirs will remain positive. After all, they are on a mission to honor their late son Gage and live a great story.
Incredibly joyful lives tell the most remarkable stories. Greg and Jennifer (Brown) Leftwich’s ’90 story began in the sixth grade.
Before the two even reached their teenage years, life was already shaping a joint mission they could not predict. Now, as the Palmyra, Missouri couple prepares for retirement, the Culver-Stockton College alumni have a clear view of their purpose.
The couple, who endured some of life’s largest challenges, chose to focus their energy on inspiring others to “live a great story.”
Their childhood meeting officially took place in a science class, where the two sat next to each other. Greg, a native of Canton, was joined by Jen, who transitioned to the school when her family moved to the area from Michigan. Her father, Dr. Robert W. Brown, had assumed the role of President at Culver-Stockton at the time. By high school, the two would find themselves involved in the same activities, and their friendship blossomed into a dating relationship.
Their senior year at Canton High School presented the couple with their first set of crossroads, both individually and as a pair. Having been raised in Canton, Greg said, “I wanted to get out and see the world.” He had an interest in agricultural engineering and chose the University of Missouri for the academic program.
Jen would go on to Culver-Stockton to study education. While she said she never considered any other college, she did worry about what being the “president’s kid” would mean for her. Would the teachers expect more from her? Would other students resent her for it? Luckily after choosing C-SC, she said, she was treated as any other student and was able to immerse herself in the community-oriented, supportive culture for which the college is known.
She moved into Johnson Residence Hall, majored in education, and joked that she made a point to “go home” for holiday dinners and occasional laundry.
After a few years at Mizzou, Greg said he found himself feeling lost. He said, “I have always wanted to be a trooper but thought I needed something to fall back on in case I got hurt.”
Moving home to Canton and enrolling at C-SC gave him a new focus.
In 1990, during his last semester of college, Greg received a call from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. He was one of 50 recruits selected to become an MSHP trooper, for which 5,000 men and women applied, an opportunity that was too good to pass up. Months before graduation, Greg left school and started his career. Jen graduated and became a special education teacher.
“We both found careers with a passion for giving back to the community,”
Jen said. “Although our careers will probably not pay us with lucrative financial rewards, we knew the rewards we would get far outweighed the paycheck.”
As the couple strengthened their commitment to the community through their first year of teaching and public service, they also vowed commitment to each other, marrying in November. They were blessed with their first child, a daughter they named Bailey, followed by a son, Taylor.
The Leftwich family grew, and they juggled careers and relationships before they were blessed with a third pregnancy, this time – twins. Unfortunately, one of the babies did not make it to earth. The other, a son, Gage, was born on Sept. 24, 1999.
“We knew something was wrong right away,” Greg said.
The couple said Gage’s sleep habits were not normal, and they had to wake him up to eat most of the time. For the first two years, as Gage’s
developmental delays became more prevalent, the family endured countless doctor’s appointments, testing, and worry, desperate for a diagnosis that could lead them to help their son.
“We really didn’t fit in anywhere,” Jen said. “You can’t fix what you can’t diagnose.”
Then, devastating news about the toddler’s condition came as a blow to the couple – Gage’s liver was in trouble, and he wouldn’t make it past two years old.
The couple said their mindset, through life’s hardships, has created the most significant outcomes.
“When the doctor said our son wouldn’t make it past two, we went home and really cried, Jen said. “We’ll be sad later,” Greg responded, “that became our pact. We knew at that moment that someday we would lose Gage, and we would be sad then, but we were choosing to be happy every day he was here.”
The couple said choosing to live intentionally joyful lives became their mission because Gage was happy.
But Gage defied the odds, growing into a teenager, nonverbal and unable to communicate, with worsening motor skills and a long, tiring history of surgeries and testing that would yield no answers. The family decided that it was time to stop searching and focus on living. It was at this time the suggestion was made to do one more test – a genomics test to study Gage’s genes.
“We considered the quality of Gage’s life. He spent half of his life in a hospital,” Jen said. “This would be our last test. Gage deserved a life outside of a hospital.”
It would take 14 years for the Leftwich family to get some answers. Finally, the genomics test revealed their son was diagnosed with NGLY 1, an extremely rare condition. In fact, Gage was only the ninth child in the world when he was diagnosed with the condition.
“The doctor was excited to tell us they found a diagnosis,” Greg said. “I asked, ‘What does that get us?’ But they said it doesn’t really get us anything. There is no cure. There is no treatment.”
With so little known about the condition, Gage’s parents took to the internet to try to find more answers. Only two articles appeared in the search, leading them to two other families who were living with the diagnosis. It wasn’t much, but it was something to cling to and led the couple to an NGLY 1 conference in San Diego. By the time they attended their first conference, 15 kids had been diagnosed. With Gage being one of the older children with the condition, Greg and Jen decided to allow Gage to undergo additional testing to find more answers for other families. “We chose to allow Gage to participate in testing because we knew he was helping other kids just like him.”
Gage participated in a National Institutes of Health study involving 32 appointments over the span of five days. His results would become baseline data for researchers moving forward. Greg explained that the research conducted since that trip has led to FDA approval of medicines curing childhood cancers and other unexplained diseases.
Meanwhile, Gage’s condition worsened. No closer to treatment options, the family focused on making their son’s last days as meaningful as possible. They created a bucket list of experiences that
would bring the joy of togetherness with the family. They participated in triathlons and races, pushing Gage’s wheelchair or towing him behind them, and swam with dolphins. They committed to each other to keep the family strong physically and mentally. They lived by the motto “be sad later,” all while living a great story.
Gage was welcomed into heaven on April 23, 2022.
Since the loss of their son, the Leftwich family has continued their quest to help others find joy in life. They attribute their ability to do so to the lessons they learned at Culver-Stockton and being raised in a supportive community of people who love and care for them and their families. They remain active in the community, giving back wherever they can and supporting other NGLY 1 families.
“We had 8,037 days with him. We are not going to get stuck on the one day that we lost him,” Jen said. “We think back on the happy times. We laugh a lot. We share stories.”
Despite the hardships Gage endured in his 22 years on earth, Greg and Jen said he was never without pure joy. They plan to celebrate and continue spreading what their son has inspired them to do.
“You have to realize that you’re only here for a short time. You can either be unhappy during that short time, or you can choose positivity and happiness,” Greg said. “You don’t have to go travel the world
It’s being part of the community and finding your community. Stay with people who bring out the best in you. Keep relationships healthy. Have a happy life and live a great story.”
Greg and Jen shared that having both sets of grandparents close to them when Gage was born was helpful for many reasons. Three children and one with a disability was a lot of responsibility, but the parents worked out of the home, so they were thankful for the family support. “When Gage was born, we knew we would need more help, but we found that our parents would come over because he was the happiest kid in the world!” Greg laughed, “Everyone wanted to spend their day with Gage.”
The Leftwich children grew up with a unique affinity for Culver-Stockton College as time passed. Both grandparents were located in the area, providing additional cultural events opportunities. “My dad was a man of great purpose and always tied to the mission; he loved Culver-Stockton College.” Jen said with a smile. Historic moments on “the Hill” for the Leftwich family on campus include naming of the Robert W. Brown Performing Arts Center, ribbon cutting ceremony at Carolyn L. & Robert W. Brown Residence Hall and most importantly, the day Taylor was presented his C-SC diploma from his grandfather.
The Leftwich family are Wildcats who are leaving a legacy, while nurturing the community ties. Jen was recently on campus at a scholarship luncheon with her mom, Mrs. Carolyn Brown meeting a scholarship recipient to tell about the Brown family legacy. Both Greg and Jen can be seen marching in the homecoming parade with the Canton Alumni Band. One thing can be certain: this couple is on a mission to live a great story.
“It’s being part of the community and finding your community. Stay with people who bring out the best in you. Keep relationships healthy. Have a happy life and live a great story.”
Providing our students of promise the tools they need in an ever-changing world does not come easy. Many uncertainties surround higher education these days, and while many institutions stumble, Culver-Stockton College continues to thrive. Investments in our endowed scholarships help provide new possibilities for accessible and equitable rural higher education. Each year over $700,000 in endowed scholarship support is awarded. A Culver-Stockton education, for countless students, is made possible by those supporters who have created an endowed student scholarship. The following are a few of those donors, pictured left to right:
For more information on how you can make a difference for Culver-Stockton College students by creating an endowed scholarship, contact the Advancement Office at advancement@culver.edu.
TO VIEW PHOTOS FROM THE SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON AND OTHER C-SC EVENTS
The Charles Field House has been a staple of Culver-Stockton College Athletics for many years. Student athletes have enjoyed various sports on its many courts, and coaches and trainers alike have relied on its many spaces for adequate and safe instruction of students and visiting teams. Following the devastation of the building due to the 2003 tornado, the building was quickly reconstructed and to this day sees a number of events within its walls such as sports camps, practices, trainings, and more.
It is without a doubt one of the most heavily utilized facilities on this beautiful campus, and its viability is key to furthering our development.
Through the generosity of an anonymous donor we’re delighted to share that efforts to install air conditioning in the Charles Field House have been realized. Installation is planned for the coming months with a completion date sometime in 2023.
This news comes at a time when the student experience is at the forefront of our mission. Investments like this will help leave a lasting impression for the many student athletes that call that facility home. It will also help improve the comfort of the many
events already conducted there as well as draw a whole new group of participants to our many activities.
We thank our wonderful donors who continue to invest in the facilities of Culver-Stockton College. Through these joint efforts we are better able to stay competitive and continue offering a positive experience for those involved.
A successful launch of the Tri-State Development Summit at CulverStockton College in fall 2022 set the groundwork for an innovative approach to community engagement. The two-day event, attended by over 225 stakeholders celebrated the $1 million gift provided by the late Mr. Thomas A. Oakley and provided the platform for C-SC to establish the vision for communityfocused academic-industry collaboration.
A networking dinner hosted by the Mid-America Port Commission at Mississippi Park kicked off the Summit and featured speakers that highlighted the importance of the Mississippi River. The Summit continued the following day offering a robust schedule of speakers, panel discussions, and presentations. Mid-morning, attendees were joined by
US Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL). A longtime supporter of the Summit, the Senator provided updates from Washington, applauded attendees for their commitment to the region, and celebrated the College for taking the lead on important initiatives and the innovative learning opportunities provided to students.
Leslie Sieck, VP for Economic and Workforce Development also serves as Executive Director for Tri-State Development, she shared,
“Mr. Oakley trusted us to focus on moving the needle for our 36 rural county region, and that’s what we are doing.”
Since the Summit, Tri-State Development has created seven taskforces including, Economic and Workforce Strategies, Legislative Concerns, Marketing, Regional Health and Wellbeing, River Development, Rural Revitalization and Placemaking, and Transportation.
“We lend an academic perspective to the opportunities and challenges driving economic growth and decline.” Sieck added.
As Tri-State Development moves forward, Culver-Stockton faculty and students will engage in task forces, community discussions, and projects, while connecting with civic leaders throughout the region.
Learn more about Tri-State Development at culver.edu/tsd.
For 170 years, Culver-Stockton College has created a student-centered, supportive learning environment comprised of brilliant faculty and resourceful staff. Our C-SC students are also supported beyond “the Hill” by alumni, friends of the College, and the community. Each year, as a part of the College’s homecoming celebration, we pause to recognize a select group of distinguished alumni and friends of the College who have made laudable contributions in their various fields. Congratulations to the 2022 Alumni Honorees.
The Outstanding Young Alumni Award recognizes C-SC alumni of 20 or fewer years who have achieved notable success. Lisa (Button) Bohan ’14, ’18 credits her relationships with C-SC faculty and friends for her incredible success in her early career. Earning her Bachelor of Science in 2014 and MBA in 2018, Lisa’s opportunities developed upon completing internships, student organizations, and connections made during her time on “the Hill.”
Lisa has held several positions at Dot Foods within her 9-year career, and was recently promoted to Warehouse Manager.
Dr. Joe Sniezek ’77 dedicated his 32-year career to the prevention of birth defects while conducting research at the Center for Disease Control (CDC); this incredible service is the primary basis for which Joe was chosen to receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Joe shared that he enrolled in Dr. Brodmann’s organic chemistry class one semester only to find out he was the only student. He will never forget those Friday afternoons in the lab but credits Dr. Brodmann because “he changed his life!”
Joe received a Bachelor of Arts from Culver-Stockton College in 1977. He continued his education earning medical and public health degrees from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
The Honorary Wildcat Award was presented to Chuck W. Scholz for his extraordinary dedication of time, talent, and gifts to Culver-Stockton College. Chuck’s relationship with the college began in 1993 while serving as Mayor of Quincy. C-SC provided resources to the Tri-State Development Summit after the historic flood that same year. When Chuck’s sons enrolled at C-SC in 1998, his love for the College grew, and he became a Wildcat from that day forward.
Chuck completed a Bachelor of Science degree from Georgetown University (1975) before continuing to Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University, where he earned a Juris Doctor degree in 1978. In 2005, he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters at Culver-Stockton College and began his service as a member of the Board of Trustees.
Toby O’Cheltree ’07 shared that he learned two core characteristics during his time on campus that he uses daily: mentorship and environment. The Outstanding Young Alumnus recipient said, “Mr. Cosgrove, along with so many other faculty members, taught me the importance of being engaged and the opportunities that come when you are inclusive; I learned the power of perspective and the way you live your life. Choosing your environment and making sure you have the right mentors gives you the right perspective to what life really is.”
Toby completed a Bachelor of Science from C-SC in 2007 and earned an MBA from William Woods University immediately after. He has been employed with the Knapheide Manufacturing Company in Quincy, Illinois, for the past 15 years, where he currently serves as General Manager of the Upper Midwest.
Elaine (Ewell) English ’67 was awarded the Distinguished Alumna Award for her professional accomplishments, significant contributions, and philanthropic service to the College and her community. A lifelong educator, Elaine graduated in 1967 from CulverStockton College with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. She earned a Master of Science degree, specializing in school administration, from the University of California in Long Beach.
Elaine’s career covered a broad range: teaching at the elementary level and as a special education teacher, serving as a staff development trainer, a curriculum coordinator, and an educational administrator. She enjoyed serving as a board member of Raising Today’s Children (a not-for-profit organization in Cook County, Ill.) and also served in several administrative positions within churches. Elaine has served on the Culver-Stockton College Board of Trustees since 1995 and currently holds trustee emerita status.
It’sbeen thirty years since C.J. Davis ’94 dribbled the ball down the court at the Charles Field House. The valuable messages he received on the sidelines from his coach, Steve Hill, made an incredible impact on his life and transformed his future.
“We used to do this thing right before every single practice where we could come together, and coach would give us a five-minute life lesson – something outside of basketball or outside of education,” Davis said. “He always found ways to get us to think beyond who we were as college students. For me, it happened to be one of those life-changing moments. It started to encourage me to be more introspective, examine my behavior, and think about what kind of impact I want on the world.”
Those inspirational chats from Coach Hill caused one of the most significant assists of Davis’ life.
Motivated to align his leadership style of servanthood, the business major expanded his studies and found psychology. Or, as Davis would say, psychology found him.
Today, the Culver-Stockton alumnus is the CEO of one of the country’s largest nonprofit community behavioral health and addiction treatment organizations. Burrell Behavioral Health, which joined Preferred Family Healthcare in January 2022 and now operates independently under the parent company Brightli, has over 200 service locations across four states. Treatments through the program range from counseling to addiction recovery to crisis intervention, among others. Burrell also offers an autism center, youth focus clinic, and integrated services connecting mental health care with community organizations.
As a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in child and adolescent mental health care, Davis found a way to combine his interest in business with his personal mission to make a difference in others’ lives. After earning his undergraduate degree at C-SC, he graduated with a master’s degree from the University of Central Missouri and a doctorate from The School of Professional Psychology at Forest Institute in Springfield, Missouri. With three decades of experience under his belt, he describes the industry as evolving in a positive direction, from a taboo subject to one that is perceived as more acceptable.
“Early on, mental health was something that people didn’t talk about. It was mysterious. It was stigmatizing. People were not proud to talk about how they felt,” he said. “But over the course of time, I have noticed a big shift. Mental health is now cool.”
I always thought that the world was a place to serve me,” Davis said.
“I realized that the world is a place for me to serve.
I think the biggest transformation of my career is that mental health went from not having a place at the table to now having a central seat at the table in both our society and in health care.
As an extension of clinical services, Burrell Behavior Health has created a foundation under Davis’ leadership as an additional mental health outreach. The Burrell Foundation has partnered with artist Randy Bacon to create a traveling exhibit titled “The Art of Being Me.” Using photographs and storytelling, the exhibit details the life experiences of 25 people who have struggled with mental health and substance abuse.
“The artist does a brilliant job of capturing the emotion of their story. And there is something in every one of those stories that you can relate to,” Davis said. “To me, that is legacy. We are creating an environment where people tell their stories in a world where there’s safety in sharing that story. It’s so powerful because it is normalizing our ability to free ourselves and talk about how we are doing in ways that are genuine, unconditional, and supportive in a unique environment.”
Davis said the exhibit reflects the mission of his own legacy, to live in such a way that positively influences others. He said he best achieves that through a life of prayer and subservience, at work, at home, and in the community. Living a life of service to others while minding his personal mental health is a significant influence, he said, to others, and more importantly, to his 20-year-old twin sons, whom he has raised with his wife, a Lewis-county native, Shawna (Smith) Davis. He notes his ability to achieve that comes from learning to be a team player, a leader, and someone who serves, all skills he developed during his years at C-SC.
“Coach Hill would pull me off to the side and say, ‘C.J., what I need for you is to not worry about C.J. But you have to figure out which one of your team members needs you.’ That really hit me. That was really profound,” Davis said. “That’s how I live my life. That’s how I serve as a leader. That’s how I am with my family. That was such a valuable life lesson.”
He also credits his previous professors and administrators, who didn’t sugarcoat the hard work, education, and dedication that Davis would have to put in to become someone who could make such an impact on others. Now, as the new Master of Arts in Counseling program is underway at C-SC, Davis encourages individuals seeking a career in mental health to gravitate to professors who can offer invaluable insights and knowledge.
Listen for the messages, he advises, especially those from the sidelines.
The one thing that will always remain a core of the world of mental health is that this is an industry of relationship building and people,”
he said. “No matter what happens, no matter what technology comes across, two things are going to be for sure
– people will continue to need services as they journey through their pain and the power of human relationship and support for one another will always be a tenet of our industry.
Raymond and VIRGINIA “ALICE” (PARRY) ’66 GRACEK have moved to Ormond Beach, Fla., and spend summers in Lakeville, Minn.
JO-ANN (LITTLE) JENNINGS ’66 has published two fiction books this year. Shoog is a survival story told in the voice of a 17-year-old woman. The second book, A Suit for Melvin, is a feelgood story for every age set in 1957.
DOUG MCEDWARDS ’68 is in his tenth year as chaplain and bereavement counselor with Hospice of Havasu. Doug is a retired pastoral minister, radio news broadcaster, and clinical mental health counselor. He lives in Lake Havasu City, Ariz.
NANCY (STOUT) TERRELL ’70 is retired and lives in Fort Myers, Fla. with her husband, William.
JOHN BUSSE ’71 is happily retired and would love to hear from old friends. He lives in Elgin, Ill.
EUGENE “GIL” DICKENS ’74 is President/CEO of Analytical Government Solutions LLC, a robust, certified Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business. Gil and Susan reside in Mason Neck, Va., and have five grandchildren.
REV. LAURA (LOUDON)
MCDONALD ’78 was appointed Senior Pastor of Maple Avenue United Methodist Church inTerre Haute, Ind. in July. She and her husband, MARK ’78 live in the parsonage with their two dogs, Sally and Bobo. Laura became an ordained Elder in the Indiana Annual Conference in 2018 and recently served Rising Sun UMC as Pastor. She is a 2016 graduate of Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
DEBRA (HOFFMAN) SCHOENFELT ’78 retired from Environmental Lab on Aug 1, 2022, in the town of Chesterton, Ind. She has been a medical technologist, a public school teacher, an aerobics instructor, and a CAD operator during her work career. She is on the C-SC Alumni Board and serves as secretary. She lives with her husband, ED ’78 in Chesterton and enjoys spending time with their grandchildren.
LAURA LEE (DUNN) ROSE ’80 has retired and lives near Centralia, Mo. with her husband, Butch.
COLONEL (RETIRED) GLEN
SHEPHERD ’85 is the Senior Program Manager for Installation IT Infrastructure for Air Education andTraining Command. He recently became a grandfather to Joseph Gael, born on March 1, 2022. He resides in Cibolo, Texas.
LORI (PFEIFERLING) WOLFF ’86 works as a file clerk for the law offices of Quinn Johnston in Peoria, Ill. Lori and her husband, Thomas, live in East Peoria, Ill.
ANGIE (SCHEITER) ’89 and MARK ’89 BRIDGES recently retired. Angie spent 25 years as an educator in Missouri, Illinois, and most recently Iowa. Mark spent 32 years in the workforce (28 years at Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station in Cordova and four years at MEMC Electronic Materials in St. Louis). They plan to spend time visiting their kids, Molly and Alec, in San Francisco and Nashville and traveling to a warmer climate. They reside in Davenport, Iowa.
MEG BARTIG ’90 is an alternative teacher for the St. Charles City School District in St. Charles, Mo. She resides in O’Fallon, Mo.
CHRIS FLETCHER ’94 works for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and was selected as Deciding Official to safeguard and advance the reputation of the organization. Chris resides in Stafford, Va.
SHAWN KELSCH ’95 has been named principal at Jefferson City Academic Center in Jefferson City, Mo. after serving as head principal at Thomas Jefferson Middle School since 2017. He is married to SHARYL (MILES) KELSCH ’95, a principal at Fatima High School. They have two children.
RYAN CURTIS ’06 has been named Performance Coach for the San Antonio Spurs. Curtis enters his fourth season with the Spurs after spending two years as Athletic Performance Data Manager. He resides in San Antonio, Texas.
CINDY (WEBER) CULLER ’07 is an executive assistant for Savant Wealth Management. She lives in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with her husband, Vance, and two children, Rocket and Clementine.
PHILIP ’08 and DESIRAE (MEEKER) ’06 O’NEAL reside in Clarence, Mo. Phil recently finished his EdS in K-12 Administration from Northwest Missouri State University and teaches in the Madison C-3 School District, Madison, Mo. Desirae is a teacher at South Shelby Elementary School.
CINDY (VAN ZANTE) GAIN ’11 has a new job as Controller at EFC International in St. Louis. Cindy, Josh, and their children reside in St. Peters, Mo.
RACHEL (ELDER) BOREN ’16 earned a Master of Science in Educational Technology from the University of Central Missouri in Dec. 2022. She is currently employed as an instructor of English at Grain Valley HS, is the assistant cross country coach, and ACT proctor. ALEC ’18 and Rachel reside in Lee Summit. Mo.
KATELYN CLICKNER ’17 is a dispatcher for Cooper County E911. She resides in Boonville, Mo.
SHELBY (FECHTER) ’18 and BEN BELANGER ’12 and were married June 15, 2019. They reside in DeSoto, Mo.
LEAH (LUTHENAUER) BOLES ’19 and John Boles were married Aug. 13, 2022. C-SC alumni attending were ERIN KARG ’20, ANDREA RAINS ’19, KAELEE OGLE ’21, ALEXA KLOCKE ’21 and DANNICKA WISEMAN ’21. They reside in Hillsboro, Mo.
SUSAN (FOX) COX ’88 married C. Vance Cox, Jr. on Oct. 24, 2022 in Winston-Salem, NC. Their primary residence is in Chapel Hill, NC. Susan’s C-SC roommate of two years, PAM MOSES ’87, attended the wedding.
KELSIE (WAY) CRENSHAW ’19 married Brenon Crenshaw on Sept. 24, 2022 in Troy, Mo. The wedding was photographed by JENNY HUDSPETH ’18. They reside in Saint Charles, Mo.
MADISON (LANDRY) ’19 and GEORDAN ’19 HAUSDORF were married May 14, 2022 at the St. Louis Zoo. CulverStockton alumni in the wedding party included KAYLA KNUTSON ’18, RYAN BULINSKI ’19, MADDIE THOMPSON ’20, BRAEDYN HAUSDORF ’21, BROCK HIRN ’20, PAXTON BURKHART ’20, REBECCA HOLLEY ’21. Geordan and Madison reside in St. Louis, Mo.
SHELBY (BECKMAN) HERT ’17 and Clayton Hert were married in Rocky Mountain National Park in Estes Park, Colo. on June 21, 2022. Shelby is the daughter of KATHY and GARY BECKMAN ’72. They reside in Columbia, Mo.
LEXIE (MOORE) HEUBNER ’19 and Dalton Heubner were married June 18, 2022. They reside near Golden, Ill.
HANNAH (GARRIS) ’19 and JOEY KRZYWONOS ’19 were married at The Columbia Club in Indianapolis Ind. on Oct. 22, 2022. They reside in Indianapolis.
JESSICA (SCHINDLER) MUNGER ’18 and Corey Munger were married Sept. 10, 2022 at the Orchard in Hannibal, Mo. They reside in Frankford, Mo.
KALLI (GORDANIER) ‘21 and LOGAN ‘19 SCHOLL were married Oct. 8, 2022. LEXIE ’22 GORDANIER was in the wedding party. They reside in Hannibal, Mo.
ALEXIS (JANNEY) ’20 and MATTHEW SCOGGIN ’21 were married June 18, 2022. Alexis is the daughter of DELL ANN (BALK) ’87 AND JEFF ’86 JANNEY. LAUREN (JANNEY) BERHORST ’17 and ANNIE HOFFMAN ’20 were bridal attendants. They reside in Canton, Mo.
RANDY ’06 and SARA (BILL) ’07 AGUIAR are parents of a son, Mateo Julian Aguiar, born Sept. 23, 2022. He joins big brother, Geovany. The Aguiar family resides in Surprise, Ariz.
MITCHELL ‘16 and MERCEDES (SPURGEON) ‘19 BARTON are parents of a son, Steven Lynn Barton, born Sept. 26, 2022. The Barton family resides in Nebo, Ill.
BEN ’12 and SHELBY (FECHTER) ’18 BELANGER are parents of a daughter, Alayna Rose Belanger, born Apr. 6, 2021. The Belanger family resides in DeSoto, Mo.
Katie and KEGAN BROWN ’18 are parents of a son, Case Francis Brown, born Nov. 13, 2022. The Browns reside in Fulton, Mo.
Genevieve and KORY BUYS ’07 are parents of a son, Kellen Daniel Buys, born Aug. 4, 2022. He joins older brothers, Kristian and Kohen. The Buys family resides in Independence, Mo.
LUCAS ’09 and CALY (KITE) ’08, ’14 CRAMSEY are parents of a son, Duane Joseph ‘DJ’ Michael, born Oct. 17, 2022. He joins siblings, Sophia andTucker. The Cramsey family resides in Quincy, Ill.
Vance and CINDY (WEBER) ’07 CULLER are parents of a daughter, Clementine Grace Culler, born Aug. 19, 2022. She joins big brother, Rocket. The Cullers reside in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
MASON ’14 and MORGAN (WILSON) ’16 DEMOTT are parents of a daughter, Finley Kaylynn, born July 8, 2022. She joins big brother, Hudson. The DeMott family resides in Otisville, Mich.
JOHNNA (CLAYTON) DENNIS ’09 is the mother of Calloway Lee Dennis born June 16, 2022. She joins big brother, Melvin. They reside in Hannibal, Mo.
Trey Flesner and DANIELLE REED ‘20 are parents of a daughter, Thea Louise Flesner, born July 28, 2022. She joins big brother Lachlan. The family resides in Camp Point, Ill.
Rachel and DEVIN FOWLER ’20 are parents of a son, Harrison Donald Lee Fowler, born Aug. 4, 2022. He joins big sisters Harper and Hannah.
Henry and ABIGAIL (GAUS) ’11 GUNSAULS are parents of a daughter, Jersey Ann, born Oct. 12, 2022. She joins siblings, Presley and Christopher. They reside in La Grange, Mo.
TYLER ’17 and CASIE (LYONS) ’17 HAMILTON are parents of a daughter, Colbie, born March 7, 2022. The Hamilton family resides in Bethalto, Ill.
Jen and MAT HOLT ’08 are parents of a son, Levi Spencer Holt, born Aug. 31, 2022. He joins big sister, Lucy. The Holt family lives in Palmyra, Mo.
Shay and CASSIE (ALLEN) ’20 KIRCHNER are parents of a son, Bennett Allen Kirchner, born June 15, 2022. The Kirchners reside near Canton, Mo
Lizzy and JOSH LEE ’13 are parents of a daughter, Georgia Ann Lee, born June 21, 2022. The Lee family resides in Canton, Mo.
Cody and CHELSEA (EDMONDSON) ’15 MAPLES are parents of a daughter, Madyson Louise, born Nov. 29, 2022. She joins big brother, Lucas. The Maples family resides in Kahoka, Mo.
KENNEDY ’09 and KARRIE (GUTHRIE) ’11 MOORE are parents of twin daughters, Paige Foster and Quincy Katherine Moore, born June 24, 2022. They join big sister, CeCe. The Moore family resides in Colorado Springs, Colo.
David and BRIANNE (GUYMAN) ’11 MUSSO are parents of a son, Mohen Kent Musso, born Aug. 3, 2022. He joins older brother, Mayes. The Musso family resides in St. Peters, Mo.
BRANDON ’16 and DESTINEE (SELLECK) ’17 PEZLEY are parents of a daughter, Maison Lynne Pezley, born Aug. 26, 2022. The Pezley family resides in Wentzville, Mo.
BRIANNA SIMONS ’18 is the parent of a son, Kristofer Simons, born Oct. 11, 2021. They reside in Earth City, Mo.
LANCE ’17 and ABBY (MIKESELL)
’19 SMITH are parents of a son, Walker Mikesell Smith, born Sept. 8, 2022. The Smiths reside inTopeka, Kans.
DANIEL ’18 and KADEE (KARKKAINEN)
’18 SMITH are parents of a son, Declan James Smith, born June 16, 2022. The Smith family resides in O’Fallon, Mo.
TOBY ’16 and DARBY (BRUNDAGE)
’19 SULLIVAN are parents of a son, Miles Joseph Sullivan, born on July 14, 2022. The Sullivan family resides in Columbia, Mo.
GERALD ’05 and ASHLEY (THOMAS) ’07 TRANQUILLE are parents of a daughter, Adaira Rose, born on Sept. 5, 2022. She joins big brothers, Ashdon, Jackson, and Camden. TheTranquille family resides in Bristol, Fla.
Cody and AUTUMN (FLOREA) ’20
WILKENS are parents of a daughter, Sawyer Renee Wilkens, born Nov. 3, 2022. The Wilkens family resides near Ewing, Mo.
CLASSES OF THE 1940s
VERA (WOEGER) CHANDLER ’43
Acton, Mass. • March 13, 2022
CLASSES OF THE 1950s
MARIAN (COWDEN) LEWIS ’50
Garland, Texas • Nov. 24, 2022
GEORGE HOFFMAN ’54
Canton, Mo. • Oct. 23, 2022
JACK BARNES ’57
Saint Petersburg, Fla. • June 23, 2022
NEWTON MCCUTCHAN ’57
Canton, Mo. • Sept. 13, 2022
MAX DOMBROWSKI ’58
Dallas, Ga. • May 4, 2022
EUNICE (PATTON) HARTIGAN ’58
Torrance, Calif. • Oct. 27, 2022
IRA “HANK” FIELDS ’59
Dayton, Ohio • July 18, 2022
MARY (ALEXANDER) HENTHORNE ’59
Tucson, Ariz. • Jan. 15, 2022
FOREST “ROD” LOWREY ’59
Ellisville, Mo. • Nov. 12, 2022
CLASSES OF THE 1960s
KAREN (DANIELS) NELSON ’60
Willow Springs, Mo. • Feb. 22, 2022
DAVID ROSEBRAUGH ’60
Bridgman, Mich. • April 10, 2022
JOHN SIENKOWSKI ’60
Moneta, Va. • Aug. 18, 2022
V. JOYCE (SPURLING) MENDOZA ’65
Waddell, Ariz. • Oct 6, 2022
LARRY DAVIDSON ’68
Muncie, Ind. • Jan. 18, 2022
CLASSES OF THE 1970s
KENNETH LEAVY ’78
Merrillville, Ind. • Sept. 29, 2022
CLASSES OF THE 1990s
BRIDIE (KEARNS) SCHLOTTER ’94
Canton, Mo. • Aug. 15, 2022
MARK E. SHELLMYER ’99
Winter Park, Fla. • May 26, 2022
FACULTY EMERITA
DR. CAROL (FISHER) MATHIESON
Faculty Emeritus, Professor of Music
1978-2022
Canton, Mo. • Oct. 10, 2022
In addition to updates you submit, we compile information from a variety of sources: campus event notices, newspapers and magazine articles, press releases and, Google alerts. Please submit updates to alumni@culver.edu
Have you had a chance to check out CulverStockton College’s new online giving platform, UNITE C-SC? Here, you can learn more about exciting projects and initiatives on campus, make impact gifts to support student scholarships, and connect your targeted philanthropic priorities with innovative student and faculty-driven projects on “the Hill.”
With UNITE C-SC, alumni, parents, and friends of Culver-Stockton College can join together to fund inspirational projects. All gifts make a difference and, together, we can show the world just what we can do from high atop “the Hill.”
Visit advancement.culver.edu to learn more!
Culver-Stockton College has grown tremendously over 170 years due to the gifts of time, talents, and financial support of our treasured alumni and friends. As we reflect upon this historic milestone, the most transformative gifts have been established legacies that created a lasting impact because they harnessed an individual’s passion. Breathing life into the planned gift, Wildcats are changing the future of “the Hill” because of their forethought to include C-SC in their estate gifts, stocks, bonds, or mutual fund shares.
THINK BIG about how you can create a lasting impact for future generations of your alma mater. Your Advancement Team is here to help plan your gift of any size to benefit students, faculty, research, and programs.
Adam J. Duesterhaus ’06 Vice President for Advancement aduesterhaus@culver.edu
573-288-6000 ext. 6390
Marjorie Ellison ’90 Senior Director of Advancement and Alumni mellison@culver.edu
573-288-6000 ext. 6541
Melissa DuBuque ’88 Director of Alumni Programs mdubuque@culver.edu
573-288-6000 ext. 6343
Carla Boren ’83 Director of Advancement for Annual and Leadership Giving cboren@culver.edu
573-288-6000 ext. 6463
Susie Biggerstaff ’02 Administrator for Gifts and Stewardship
sbiggerstaff@culver.edu
573-288-6000 ext. 6320
“
“ Contributing to Culver-Stockton College student scholarships is not just about giving back, but more especially about paying it forward to help students fund their college education.
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.
Ann Durand ‘69
START THE CONVERSATION TODAY TO LEAVE YOUR LEGACY FOR TOMORROW
Culver-Stockton College
One College Hill
Canton, MO 63435
800-755-CATS advancement@culver.edu
