LEADING FROM “THE HILL” DR. LAUREN B. SCHELLENBERGER NAMED 28TH PRESIDENT Inauguration set for April 11, 2024
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IN THIS ISSUE contents
Letter From the President................................. 5
Happenings on “the Hill”............................... 6 Victory Bell.....................................................12 Through the Lens: Homecoming 2023.......14 Innovation In & Out of the Classroom........16 Donations at Work........................................40 Class Notes....................................................42
FEATURES
22
The Impact of Giving & Lifelong Learning
24
Leading from “the Hill”
Alumna Leslie Kelsay ‘73 returned to “the Hill” to celebrate her 50-year reunion and to dedicate a space on campus she helped create, impacting future generations. Learn about this gift and how the simulation center will impact students and the surrounding communities. Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger became Culver-Stockton College’s 28th president in July. Learn more about our new leader and her vision for “the Hill.”
32
Outstanding Alumni Honorees
36
The Wildcat Student Experience
Eight elite individuals were selected and celebrated for their remarkable contributions. Read more about these outstanding Wildcats and their accomplishments. Meeting the ever-changing needs and expectations of students is a top priority. Read about how the C-SC Student Experience staff have adapted this year.
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CHRONICLE
The Magazine of Culver-Stockton College Winter 2024
Vol. 33
Issue 1
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. EDITORIAL STAFF Alyssa Hummel
Director of Communications and Marketing
Jayla Heindselman Graphic Designer
Brandon Thacker
Multimedia Designer
Carolyn Carpenter Marketing Specialist
CAMPUS LEADERSHIP Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger President
Pat Atwell
Director of Athletics
Cindy Freels
Senior Assistant to the President
Dr. Kim Gaither ’79
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Alyssa Hummel
Director of Communications and Marketing
Melanie Lechtenberg
Vice President for Enrollment Management
Dr. Angie Royal
Vice President of Student Experience
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
Scott Wills
Vice President for Advancement
Culver-Stockton College One College Hill Canton, MO 63435 culver.edu
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LETTER FROM the PRESIDENT
As I write this letter, students are enjoying one of the best parts of winter here on campus by sledding down our iconic Hill. Although cafeteria trays are no longer the sled of choice, today’s students are equally resourceful! As the new semester starts, our students are beginning their 12-week session courses, to be followed by their 3-week session courses in April. As you may know, Culver-Stockton College is one of only two colleges in the United States that offers this unique 12+3 academic calendar, which prioritizes a focus on experiential learning. In December, our students and faculty took advantage of the fall 3-week session to explore topics on-location, including a history and religion course in Greece and a sport management course in Ireland. A class focused on event and facility management also traveled to Florida to assist with logistics for the Boca Raton Bowl, which is an annual experience offered to our sports management students by alumnus Doug Mosley ’85. Students who remained on campus had a diverse set of 3-week courses available to them. Some learned the cultural, technological, political, and economic dynamics of global business, some composed original music, and others practiced stress management skills for use with their future clients. Criminal Justice majors honed their interview and interrogation skills, and biology students discovered viruses found in local soils, just to name a few courses. The 3-week term allows students to focus on one topic and explore it deeply, without the stress of other classes and deadlines. This extensive and immersive study is made possible by the talented faculty and staff that we have here at Culver-Stockton. Furthermore, it would not be possible without the generous support and involvement of our alumni, donors, and friends. Culver-Stockton is also fortunate to have an active board of trustees who understands the value of this special combination of transferable skills and technical skills, all gained through a liberal arts education built on the solid foundation of more than 170 years of innovation here on “the Hill”. Now, I am looking forward to this spring semester and what the future holds for Culver-Stockton. We are in the beginning stages of formulating a strategic plan that will solidify C-SC as a premier institute of higher learning in the years ahead. I am honored to be working closely with the talented individuals who make up our Culver-Stockton College community, and this community is deeply grateful for the continued support so many of you offer through your time, talents, treasure, and testimony. Best regards,
Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger President WINTER 2024 | 5
| HAPPENINGS ON “THE HILL” |
Pictured left to right are Dr. Lindsay Uhlmeyer, Dr. Sarah Reardon, Dr. Lisa Prowant, Robin Jarvis, and Shelley Oltmans Eric Larson
MOORMAN PROFESSOR Eric Larson, senior lecturer in business, has been named to serve as the 2023-2024 Moorman Professor. The Moorman Professorship enables Culver-Stockton College to recognize a notable member of its faculty whose contributions to free-enterprise systems and expertise in teaching translate to a demonstrated passion for educating the next generation of business leaders.
LIFE-LONG LEARNERS Faculty members Dr. Lindsay Uhlmeyer, Dr. Sarah Reardon, Dr. Lisa Prowant, Robin Jarvis, and Shelley Oltmans attended the annual Project-Based Learning Institute at the Worcester Polytechnic Institute in July to learn advanced methods of integrating problembased learning in their classrooms.
Janette Burgin
Scott Giltner
SPERRY CHAIR Congratulations to Dr. Scott Giltner who has been appointed as the John A. Sperry Jr. Endowed Chair in Humanities. Provost Gaither shared, “Giltner will be an excellent professor to carry on the traditions of John Sperry and Patrick Hotle, elevating our college and the student experience.” 6 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
Caitlin Erickson
ATHLETIC COACHES NAMED TO NEW LEADERSHIP ROLES Janette Burgin, head women’s basketball coach, and Caitlin Erickson, head women’s lacrosse coach, were extended new leadership roles on campus. Burgin accepted the role of senior women’s leader (SWL) working with athletic leadership and supporting strategic processes. She will also serve as the designated SWL in the NAIA representing C-SC. Erickson accepted the role of coordinator of student-athlete experience lending her expertise to support and mentor student-athletes in their college experience.
| HAPPENINGS ON “THE HILL” |
C-SC President Schellenberger with the fall 2023 incoming class
ENROLLMENT INCREASE There are more new Wildcats on campus this year than in previous years; 7.55% to be exact. This year’s incoming class brought in 356 new students, compared to 331 one year earlier.
YEARS OF SERVICE On September 1, 2023, all employees gathered on campus to commemorate the beginning of another academic year. Chairman of the Board H.B. Turner, thanked each person for their commitment to student success at C-SC before celebrating employment milestones. In total, 19 faculty and staff were recognized for their dedication to service, honoring five or more years to the College. Joni Mowen and Bill Schneider were most notable, with 35 years of service.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ONLINE CAREER DEVELOPMENT BY OPENING THE CAMERA APP, AND CENTERING THE CODE ON THE SCREEN FOR A COUPLE OF SECONDS. TAP THE NOTIFICATION THAT POPS UP TO OPEN THE LINK. OR, VISIT CULVER.EDU/GPS/ ONLINE-CAREER-DEVELOPMENT
ONLINE CAREER DEVELOPMENT Launched in September, C-SC partnered with ed2go, offering a number of non-credit courses covering various topics for professional development and personal enrichment. The online platform enables individuals to gain work skills, enhance resume accomplishments, and improve employment opportunities. Joni Mowen
Bill Schneider
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| HAPPENINGS ON “THE HILL” |
STEEL MAGNOLIAS The C-SC Theatre Department opened the season with four sold-out shows of Steel Magnolias. Set in Truvy’s Beauty Salon, the ladies of Chinquapin, Louisiana, brought audiences to laughter and tears as the actors shared scenes of strength, love, and community on the stage.
C-SC student choosing an outfit from the Dress for Success Closet
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Cast of C-SC play Steel Magnolias
The Dress for Success Closet is bursting at the seams with professional clothing, footwear, and accessories that students need when dressing themselves for internships, interviews, and their first careers. In November, the success closet hosted several professionals to support students in their clothing selection such as a professional stylist and seamstress. Several parent and alumni volunteers provide feedback and encouragement. All students are invited for a professional shopping experience each semester with individual appointments available on an ongoing basis.
GRANT AWARDED
Scene from Truvy’s Beauty Salon
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C-SC received notice of a $371,286 grant from the United States Department of Justice. This first year of grant funding will involve a planning year to hire a project director and develop the Coordinated Community Response Team (CCRT). CCRT will include students, campus partners, victim advocates, and local law enforcement and will be an integral part of the strategic planning process. This team will be responsible for reviewing policies and procedures and establishing relationships with internal and external partners.
| HAPPENINGS ON “THE HILL” |
DEWEY AWARD In October, the College was notified by Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, that they received the Developing an Educator Workforce that Expands Yearly (DEWEY) grant for $70,000. The award will assist with increasing and retaining K-12 teacher candidates. Led by Dr. Cindy Whiston, associate professor of education, the grant team will focus on recruitment, professional development, and experiential learning opportunities. Cindy Whiston teaching in the classroom.
ALUMNA RETURNS TO “THE HILL” AS CHAPLAIN C-SC Chaplain Rev. Dr. Mandy Tarpening ’99, returned to “the Hill,” on October 30 where her faith foundation started. Tarpening stated that she was elated to return to her alma mater to invest in the next generation of Wildcats. Melanie Lechtenberg
Scott Wills
NEW LEADERSHIP In September, two new vice presidents – both with decades of higher learning experience - joined C-SC to complete the President’s Senior Leadership Group. Melanie Lechtenberg serves as the vice president for enrollment management and Scott Wills as the vice president for advancement.
C-SC receives $371,286 from the Dept. of Justice
Mandy Tarpening
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| HAPPENINGS ON “THE HILL” |
MOSHAPE HONOREE Junior Aspyn Harrison was recognized in November by the Missouri Society of Health and Physical Educators with an annual award at the state conference. Standing with C-SC Asst. Professor of Physical Education Bill Schneider, Harrison received this award for her outstanding work in and out of the classroom.
Rachel Moore
2X HEART OF AMERICA BOWLER OF THE WEEK Bill Schneider and Aspyn Harrison
Sophomore Wildcat Bowler Rachel Moore was named Heart of America Athletic Conference Women’s Bowler of the Week not once but twice within three weeks. Congratulations, Rachel!
MUSCO AWARDS Both the women’s and men’s soccer teams were named the Musco Team Sportsmanship Award by the Heart of America Conference for the 2023 season. The teams were presented this prestigious honor for displaying the NAIA’s five core character values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. Both teams are led by alumni coaches; Wildcat women by Tyler Tomlinson ’03 and Wildcat men Tyler Hamilton ’17. Men’s Soccer Team
Women’s Soccer Team 10 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
| HAPPENINGS ON “THE HILL” |
HOLIDAY ON THE HILL Nearly 200 area children and their families visited campus this holiday season for our annual Holiday on the Hill. Led by Culver-Stockton Teachers Organization, the event featured crafts, games, educational activities, and photos with Santa Claus. Left to right: Morgan Frankenhoff, Abbey Ward, Diallo Walker, Bailey Orsette, Morgan Zavoral, Yerison Hierro, Emily Grodjesk, Ryan Moore, Rowdy Jackson, Zhane Cariglia.
SENIOR ART SHOW Ten art students presented their senior capstone in the Mabee Art Gallery on Saturday, December 9. The projects displayed skills gained throughout their undergraduate careers. The show, “The Art of Revival” included works from eight graphic design artists including Morgan Frankenhoff, Emily Grodjesk, Yerison Hierro, Ryan Moore, Bailey Orsette, Diallo Walker, Abbey Ward, and Morgan Zavoral. The fine art students included Zhane Cariglia and Rowdy Jackson.
C-SC students at Holiday on the Hill
CHRISTMAS CONCERT Alexander Campbell Auditorium was filled with beautiful sounds of the Christmas season as the choirs gathered for their annual holiday concert before finishing the semester. Led by Interim Director Amy Stollberg ’88, the choir dazzled the audience with new pieces and ended the evening with the traditional “Peace, Peace”.
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| VICTORY BELL |
THE
REBIRTH RUNNING of
AT C-SC
success
“We are creating a culture of and it feels awesome,”
,
Head Coach Hunter Davis said as the Wildcat team rang the victory bell to kick off homecoming celebrations.
Wildcats celebrate a great showing at the Corridor Clash 2023 meet
After a brief pause in the running programs, cross country was reinstated with the hiring of Coach Hunter Davis to Wildcat Athletics. A native of Spirit Lake, Iowa, Davis earned his bachelor’s degree from Morningside College, where he threw the javelin and ran cross country. Before accepting the head coaching position at Culver-Stockton College, Davis served multiple roles at Iowa Wesleyan, where he coached numerous All-Americans and a national championship qualifier. Davis said C-SC feels like home, and he is glad to be here.
“It feels awesome to be a Wildcat and have the kind of culture we have. We are breeding success, and we are just getting started.” -Coach Davis Throughout the season, the men’s and women’s teams celebrated several victories, concluding with an appearance at the NAIA National Marathon. While the men and women competed Davis encourages Wildcat men after a meet 12 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
| VICTORY BELL |
“Not only did Coach Davis revitalize running at C-SC, but his team has broken several of the records we had in place! It is incredible to welcome so many new transfer students to campus, foster an environment of success, and rally around them as they raise the bar for competition; we could not be more proud!” -Director of Athletics Pat Atwell
separately, the group trained together, which resulted in a record-setting season. The men’s team, led by junior Logan Lucas, a transfer from Iowa Wesleyan (IW) and native of Monroe City, Missouri, recorded top-10 finishes in six races and broke five school records this season. Danville, Iowa junior, Kile Dowd, logged enough miles to qualify for the NAIA national marathon in Sacramento, California, and finished the race with a time of 3:33:08. Iowa Wesleyan transfer junior Faith Younce led the Wildcats this season by setting a new school record and placing in the top five at every meet. Younce, a Bonney Lake, Washington native, was able to punch her ticket to the NAIA national marathon and complete the race in 3:41:51. Following close behind was graduate student Allison Morris (IW transfer), who completed the marathon with a time of 3:48:49. While much of the Wildcat Cross Country team is comprised of transfer students, they have made their home on “the Hill.” The support the team received this season did not go unnoticed.
Lucas celebrates a Top 15 finish at Luther College Invitational
“We felt the love on and off the course. I think it’s a really cool thing, especially with how established a school is, to see a new program come in and immediately get the respect that we’ve been working so hard for. It shows that the school is behind us, the community is behind us, and as a new program, we are welcome into Wildcat Nation.” -Coach Davis
2023-24 Wildcat Cross Country teams
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| THROUGH THE LENS: HOMECOMING 2023 |
Celebrating
HOMECOMING 2023 BUILT ON THE HILL OCT. 27-29, 2023
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| THROUGH THE LENS: HOMECOMING 2023 | Celebrating 170 years of tradition at Culver-Stockton College, alumni and friends gathered on campus and in Canton to celebrate the annual homecoming festivities. Themed “Built on the Hill,” classmates shared stories of connectedness, resilience, and transformation during their C-SC education. Reunions took place, memories were recounted, and more were created during the weekend of Oct. 27-29, 2023. Thank you to everyone who was able to join us for Homecoming 2023!
HOMECOMING 2024
October 25-27 Save date THE
TO VIEW PHOTOS FROM HOMECOMING SCAN HERE
OPEN THE CAMERA APP, CENTER THE CODE ON THE SCREEN FOR A COUPLE OF SECONDS. TAP THE NOTIFICATION THAT POPS UP TO OPEN THE LINK. OR, VISIT BIT.LY/C-SCHOMECOMING2023
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NN VATION IN & OUT OF THE CLASSROOM
For more than 170 years, Culver-Stockton College has been a forward-thinking institution, leading with an innovative curriculum that is forged in experiences and enhanced through connections. The goal is not only to provide the coursework needed to succeed after graduation, but to also do so in a way that best prepares students to become strong leaders in the future. The College has been fulfilling that mission through many educational opportunities over the years, including some recent experiences that have called students out of the classroom and into the world.
good foundation for years to come, and hopefully, it can be picked up by a future class.” - Senior Taylor Worthey
TAYLOR WORTHEY Before she graduates, Taylor Worthey is dedicated to educating other female students on how to be aware of their surroundings. A senior honors student majoring in psychology and criminal justice, she determined the best way to complete her capstone project was to take action rather than write a paper.
The creative project took a semester to bring together, but she made it happen and perhaps saved a life. Taylor may never know, but she is taking the right steps for a cause that is important to her. Ultimately, the classes leading to graduation, her honors capstone, and her internship have prepared her for her next journey in life. Taylor Worthey
“I want to bring awareness to issues of sexual assault, domestic violence, and learn some selfdefense skills.” - Senior Taylor Worthey While she noted that C-SC does not have a high domestic violence rate, she learned the value of having self-defense skills upon completing her internship at the Elizabeth Layton Mental Health Center (Kansas City, Kan.) this past summer. Because of the numerous conversations regarding personal safety, the desire to learn self-defense was apparent. These conversations are what sparked Taylor to create a two-part program focusing on domestic violence awareness. First, an ACE event which was open to all genders, focused on domestic abuse resources. The second event was a self-defense course for female students that was led by Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu School and took place on campus in Charles Field House.
A group of female students met in the Field House to learn self-defense from a Gracie Barra instructor
“I was able to partner with local law enforcement for resources, Gracie Barra for self-defense, and the College for overcoming liabilities. I think I built a Worthey with her sorority sisters 16 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
| I N N O VAT I O N I N & O U T O F T H E C L A S S R O O M |
JACOB MORRIS Junior Jacob Morris completed two professional internships before entering his third year of college, and his professional network is growing rapidly. He has gained business and marketing experience with Chick-fil-A and Northwestern Mutual. The St. Louis native said his journey towards a bachelor’s of science is more than coursework.
“Surrounding yourself with people who challenge the way you think and having respectful, open, honest conversations provides you with an opportunity to gain perspective and broaden your understanding.” - Junior Jacob Morris
Morris, far right, with Northwestern Mutual interns
“While getting your education, you also need experience. One of the reasons I chose Culver-Stockton was because of the experiential learning program here.” - Junior Jacob Morris
Morris in Milwaukee at Summer Camp for Northwestern Mutual interns
After his freshman year, he was an operations intern at Chick-fil-A, where, each week, he partnered with a different store director. Morris gained experience in various business fields, from marketing to human resources, and a greater appreciation of entrepreneurship and facilitating a franchise. The following summer, he changed industries to secure an internship with Northwestern Mutual as a financial advisor. While majoring in business and marketing at C-SC, Morris said these two experiences opened his eyes to both career fields.
“I’m glad I started at Chick-fil-A because I was required to read books like Extreme Ownership and Eat More Chicken that prepared me for my internship at Northwestern. Looking back, what I learned at Chick-fil-A, I applied to Northwestern, and I’m still using those leadership skills daily.” - Junior Jacob Morris Jacob’s leadership skills at Northwestern were noticed and rewarded by his supervisors. After his internship, Morris was recognized as one of the top 100 interns. He was invited to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for an exclusive training opportunity to continue learning among his peers. Relationships with his professors created connections that ultimately led to opportunities. Morris was celebrated on LinkedIn by a Northwestern Mutual supervisor for his outstanding work WINTER 2024 | 17
| I N N O VAT I O N I N & O U T O F T H E C L A S S R O O M |
RYAN MOORE Ryan Moore landed on “the Hill” with hopes of playing basketball and gaining graphic design knowledge to someday create brand logos. The senior from Melbourne, Australia, accomplished both goals during his undergraduate studies and seized every opportunity to leave his mark on campus. In the summer of 2023, select senior graphic design students were invited to submit artwork for a potential campus mural. Moore submitted his artwork, and a final sketch came to life after collaborating with the campus marketing team.
Moore enjoys watching students and visitors take pictures in front of the mural, knowing that his artwork is making a lasting impression on campus. He takes pride in knowing that his work was embraced by the college and will be forward-facing for a long time to come.
This real-world experience shows that professors are truly teaching their students and have trust in them. I am thankful the school trusted me with this opportunity to create this mural that will be around for years to come. - Senior Ryan Moore
The 36-foot mural, Moore’s most significant design to date, graces a wall in the Gladys Crown Student Center, located in the heart of campus. The art piece includes detailed depictions of the most recognizable buildings and campus icons woven through the storytelling of college traditions, including Henderson Hall and Wildcat Willie tossing a coin into the Tomlinson Fountain.
“It’s quite amazing. I’m still speechless standing here looking at it. It is in a really high-traffic area, and I think almost every student at the College comes through this building daily. It really fits well in the space. I’m still at a loss for words.” -Senior Ryan Moore 18 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
Ryan Moore stands in front of his mural, located in the Gladys Crown Student Center
| I N N O VAT I O N I N & O U T O F T H E C L A S S R O O M |
TRAVEL STUDY: GREECE “There is no better way to explore the influence of religion than by immersing oneself where those practices took place in history,” -Dr. Andy Walsh During the 3-week term, Dr. Andy Walsh and Dr. Scott Giltner led a group of 21 students to Greece to discover Greek mythology and learn the Greek Orthodox Church and Islam’s origins in Greek art, architecture, rituals, beliefs, and practices. Students explored temples, mythology, Greek philosophy, and early Christianity while traveling through nine Greek cities.
“It was thirty hours of travel one way, but to be on the grounds where the greatest philosophers of all time walked and to explore the places from the first centuries are moments our students will carry with them forever.” -Scott Giltner
C-SC students visiting monasteries of Meteora
Prior to their expedition, students completed a research project on various Greek philosophers and myths and then wove the destinations together upon landing in Greece.
“Knowing the background about Socrates and then being able to tie together what I saw in person makes much more sense.” - Senior Ellie Wiehardt Ellie shared that upon reading about many Greek philosophers, visiting the locations described in history books, and various readings, for her, this trip and the ability to put the pieces together was “surreal.”
Entire Greece travel study group visiting monasteries of Meteora
“We got to see the many layers of history and that it changed many times. We can see this through statues and paintings because every timeline has something different.” -Senior Ellie Wiehardt That is the special formula of travel study: regardless of how many times faculty and students complete an expedition, every experience is unique and affords our students new lessons, which prepares them for an ever-changing, dynamic world. Our hope is that all students reflect upon their experiential learning experiences, much like that of Ellie Wiehardt.
“I’m very grateful that I was able to go on this trip and leave knowing more than I came with.”-Senior Ellie Wiehardt
The C-SC group on an overlook in Meteora, Greece
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| I N N O VAT I O N I N & O U T O F T H E C L A S S R O O M |
STRESS MANAGEMENT Every other year, Dr. Melissa Holt gathers a class of 25 students to teach best practices in stress management. Holt completed her Ph.D. research on health psychology focusing on mindfulness, making her a topic expert. Throughout the three weeks, students meet daily to identify common misconceptions about stress management and create habits for living a life of healthy balance. Holt said there is a common misunderstanding that stress is not addressed until it needs to be “fixed” and this class teaches students preventive strategies.
class was a great way to end the semester because I learned ways to find peace and take care of myself.” - Senior Adriana Farrell
“How you choose to live your life and your lifestyle choices impact your physical and mental health.This course teaches students how to build a toolbox of resources to practice every day to manage stress for overall wellbeing.” -Dr. Melissa Holt Nestled between Thanksgiving and winter break, the timing of the class is perfect. Students have completed their largest workload and can now focus on equipping themselves with tools to set themselves up for mental health success. These tools include self-awareness, slowing down, taking care of their body, healthy diet, exercise, meditation, and mindfulness. With an increasing focus on mental health, Holt explained, the art of learning and applying mindfulness is a practice that will benefit students for the rest of their lives.
Senior Adriana Farrell pauses to reflect and meditate before enjoying strawberries during class
CERTIFIED LIFE SKILLS
Each semester for nearly 30 years, Assistant Professor of Physical Education Bill Schneider gathers an estimated 25 students to teach valuable life skills. Knowing first aid, CPR, and how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator) can be crucial in emergencies. Classmates gather in Pepsi Hall “When you are mindful of yourself and others, the side effect is that your mental health improves. You of the Mabee Center, where Schneider provides instruction learn to accept yourself for who you are and accept and utilizes health-grade dummies to teach skills that provide others for who they are. We learn to appreciate just students with an American Red Cross Certification. These what is in this moment, wherever it’s at, you learn to skills, when applied effectively, can significantly improve relate to your emotions and be mindful.” the outcomes for individuals in emergency situations, thus - Dr. Melissa Holt preparing Wildcats for a life of service to their communities. Throughout the course, students work within groups and lead discussions about resources for managing stress to put into their toolbox. The teams must work together to identify best practices, techniques, and strategies and then present them to the group. With a mixture of reflection and research, each student completes a paper at the end of the course, as the culmination of their findings.
“This course was valuable for me and my future, especially with my career. Throughout this course, we gained different skills to handle how managing stressors and anxiety can improve your overall health. I can confidently state that I can apply my expertise within this class in everyday settings. This 20 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
Junior Caroline Lindsey practices chest compressions for CPR certification
| I N N O VAT I O N I N & O U T O F T H E C L A S S R O O M |
THE WORLD IS A STAGE
TRAVEL STUDY: IRELAND
It’s one thing to be part of a theatre piece but to truly understand the inner workings of theatre, more is needed. C-SC Seniors, Kaitlyn Beth and Cassie Williams did just that during the three-week term in the Advanced Directing course.
“The trip to Ireland was life-changing and eyeopening. I learned about the culture of Ireland and specifically about the games that bring a sense of community to the whole country.” - Senior Owen Randle
Beth, a theatre major, directed the poignant comedy Graceland by Ellen Byron. She shared how she learned the importance of developing not only the characters but also building relationships with the actors. Cassie Williams, a musical theatre major, directed a staged reading of Aftermath, a play she wrote this past fall as a part of her Honors Capstone course.
“I am friends with the actors, so we worked well together, which made our work easier. I was able to push them to develop the characters in a deeper and meaningful way and both of the actors dove deep into their character work and developed beautifully thought-out characters, which read throughout the play.” -Senior Kaitlyn Beth Williams found enjoyment in working with actors of various experience levels and found joy in helping them learn and experiment with different styles for the show.
Zoey Kiser, Kalista VanDerAa, and Kaitlyn Beth perform a scene
Instructors Brian Walker and Dan Mahoney led 20 students to Ireland in December to examine sports origins and compare common themes with current competitions. While abroad, students participated in various regionalspecific, historically significant, and traditional Irish athletic activities. During their travels, students discussed gender equity, American influence, and evaluated political/ global conflicts and their influence on Irish sports. The 10-day travel study included visits to multiple athletic venues and several professional lectures. Venues visited included Croke Park, University College Dublin, Leinster Professional Rugby Club, Belfast, Na Fianna GAA Gaelic Sports Club, and Cliffs of Moher & Burren.
“I very much enjoyed learning about the rich history of the Irish, the religious aspects in regards to Catholics and Protestants, Irish sports, and Ireland’s independence from the British Empire. I truly loved getting to learn and participate in traditional Irish sports, and it gave my friends motivation to possibly start an Irish sports club here at Culver.” -Senior Tyler Wildmon
The C-SC group at the Battlefield Campus in Dublin, Ireland
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| T H E I M PA C T O F G I V I N G & L I F E L O N G L E A R N I N G |
THE IMPACT of
& LIFELONG LEARNING
GIVING
TRUSTEE EMERITA LESLIE KELSAY ’73 FINDS PURPOSE IN COMBINING GIVING AND EDUCATION. Leslie Kelsay ’73
Culver-Stockton College graduate and trustee emerita, Leslie Kelsay ’73, recognizes the value of a liberal arts education.
“It introduces people to a range of disciplines which prepares them for multiple careers and fosters lifelong learning.” Kelsay can certainly attest to that importance in her academic and professional life. In 1973, she earned her first bachelor’s degree in English from C-SC, which she noted was possible through a full scholarship from the Moorman Company. Not only did she walk away with a degree at that time, but she also carried with her the importance of helping others. This is evident through her commitment to meaningful service throughout her life. Kelsay, who now resides in northern California, has her sights set on shifting careers in the areas of conviction, integrity, and issues about marginalized women, including those in correctional housing. Fifty years after her first degree, and with a new career focus, she enrolled in C-SC’s criminal justice program, which she completed this past December 2023.
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“In light of events nationally, in the criminal justice system, I had a lot of opinions, and I was very vocal about those opinions. But then I started to think, if I really wanted a seat at the table to talk about the practice of criminal justice, maybe I ought to have some education in the subject to have a legitimate voice.” As Kelsay carves out a new path for herself, she is also seeking opportunities to continue supporting the next generation of Wildcats and the community. Kelsay contributed lead funding for the college’s Critical Response Simulation Lab (CRSL). The lab hosts a customizable software simulator, Multiple Interactive Learning Objectives (MILO), to train students, law enforcement officials, community leaders, and others in de-escalation, conflict resolution, and use of force decision-making.
“If we expect law enforcement officers to fulfill their duty of protecting the public, we have to prepare them to also protect themselves.”
Through her personal knowledge and recent criminal justice studies, Kelsay realized the importance of exposing students to situations requiring critical thinking and conflict resolution skills, but also wanted her gift to impact surrounding communities. The CRSL dedication was held during homecoming weekend, and Kelsay heard the importance of her contribution in the classroom and within the community. A recent graduate, local law enforcement personnel, and department chair, Seth McBride, spoke about the impact this technology and experiences are making in criminal justice and other supportive programs. Kelsay noted that donors can look for ways to help emphasize partnership and collaboration while providing support for multi-purpose projects and programs.
“We can impact student life and fulfillment of the mission of the College in multiple ways. There are many opportunities here at Culver-Stockton in every single academic division.”
On Thursday, October 26, 2023, students, employees, alumni, friends, community members, and law enforcement personnel gathered to dedicate the Critical Response Simulation Lab. Culver-Stockton College was thankful to receive this incredible gift, a space to train individuals in de-escalation techniques. Tara Mackey ’23, C-SC Criminal Justice Alumna and Hannibal police officer, used the simulation lab as a student and shared how the technology prepared her for her current position. Additional speakers included area law enforcement partners, C-SC Senior Lecturer in Criminal Justice Seth McBride, and guest of honor Leslie Kelsay ’73, lead donor of the project.
“The experiences I gained using the simulation lab have been extremely helpful in my overall law enforcement training. The simulation provides the closest possible thing to real world experiences. It is one thing to simply be exposed to these simulations, but I believe the true value of the Critical Response Simulation Lab is the educational conversations and learning points that it creates for students to explore. Allowing students to experience the simulation for themselves opens the door for many new questions and ideas and I have been able to take so many of these lessons with me.” TARA MACKEY ’23 HANNIBAL POLICE DEPARTMENT
“The simulator embedded in the Critical Response Simulation Lab is MILO. MILO stands for Multiple Interactive Learning Objectives. MILO has over 950 different scenarios that will assist students, as well as local law enforcement officers, in the areas of de-escalation, conflict resolution and use of force decision making. MILO is used by police agencies across the country for continuous training in these same areas. In the area of Higher Ed Private Liberal Arts Colleges, I am excited to announce that Culver-Stockton College is one of the few in the United States to have this simulator.“ SETH MCBRIDE SENIOR LECTURER IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE WINTER 2024 | 23
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Leading “the Hill” FROM
Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger TH 28 NAMED PRESIDENT
Dr. Lauren and Steve Schellenberger have made the C-SC campus and the Canton community their home since 2008. Their boys, Samuel (15) and Henry (11) have spent their entire lives as Canton Tigers and regularly interact with Wildcat students when attending athletic competitions, fine arts events or walking their dog, Fox, on campus. WINTER 2024 | 25
Leading “the Hill” FROM
Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger NAMED 28TH PRESIDENT
Entering her sixteenth year on the Culver-Stockton campus, Dr. Lauren Schellenberger was unanimously approved as the 28th president of the college. She shared that although she is not an alumna of C-SC this is certainly her home. Lauren Brownback Schellenberger was raised in west central Illinois in the town of Ashland. Lauren learned the value of hard work and education from her parents, H.O. and Jane Brownback. Her mother was a high school teacher, and her father was an administrator at a community college. In addition to their professions in education, they managed a small drugstore that had been in the family since the late 1840s. This local business would be the first place of employment where Lauren would learn the importance of accountability, customer service, and relationship building, all modeled by her parents. Lauren began her higher education pathway at the University of Illinois, where she pursued a degree in crop science while participating in Greek Life as a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority. While there, she met Steven “Steve” Schellenberger, whom she married. Upon graduation from U of I, she began working on her master’s degree in botany and plant pathology at Purdue. During that 26 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
time, she envisioned herself becoming a professor at a large institution focusing on research. As part of her graduate student assistantship, Lauren became a teaching assistant, which changed her career trajectory.
“When I taught a class for the first time, I decided that teaching was what I really wanted to do most, and I knew that if I became a faculty member at a large research institution, I would not be able to spend most of my time in the classroom. I started to rethink what kind of institution I might want to call home and how I could be better prepared for that kind of position.” After completing her Ph.D. in biology education, Dr. Schellenberger began searching for faculty openings at colleges and universities known for their focus on teaching. In February 2008, she stepped foot on Culver-Stockton College’s campus for the very first time.
“As soon as I came for the interview, I knew this is where I wanted to be.”
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| LEADING FROM “THE HILL” DR. LAUREN B. SCHELLENBERGER NAMED 28TH PRESIDENT |
The night before her interview, Lauren remembers having dinner with the division chair and the vice president for academic affairs.
“I learned more in an informal setting about the position and the college, and I appreciated the time I spent with them.” The next day, she met with various campus personnel, but what she recalls most was the warmth extended to her by all Wildcats from across “the Hill.”
“Everyone was friendly, faculty, staff, students, everyone welcomed me. I will never forget how comfortable I felt on campus.” Lauren said she remembers preparing to meet with various interviewers but was most surprised by former President Fox’s question.
“I expected to be asked many questions about my research background and teaching experience. But, he asked, ‘What book are you currently reading?’ At the time, I was re-reading Edgar Lee Master’s Spoon River Anthology. It was a signal that this isn’t just about your technical levels of expertise in teaching biology. It’s about your interests, what you are doing outside of the classroom, and how you might model lifelong learning for our students.” From that moment on, Culver-Stockton College checked all of the boxes. She accepted the position of assistant professor of biology, beginning the fall 28 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
of 2008, the same year the new 12-week + 3-week semester calendar would begin.
“The new calendar was exciting. The faculty’s ability to transition their entire curriculum into a completely different calendar within a year told me that they were innovative and nimble, and I knew I wanted to be a part of something so unique.” She recalled the most memorable occasions from her years of teaching, including travel study and the opportunity to participate in research with students. Throughout her 15 years in the classroom, Dr. Schellenberger, referred to as “Doc Schelly,” led over a dozen travel study courses. Most notably, she partnered with Dr. Scott Giltner to lead the biology portion of the “Reefs & Ruins” course, a tropical ecology and environmental history class that traveled to Belize and Guatemala to study tropical ecosystems and how they have changed throughout history. To date, more than 250 students have traveled internationally or domestically on one of Dr. Schellenberger’s experiential learning opportunities. With the Belize and Guatemala courses, in particular, the ability to return to the same place year after year was anything but repetitive; instead, it was a meaningful cohesion of coursework and human connection.
“We purposefully chose to return to the same locations and work with the same people and meet the same families, this helped us teach a better class each time, and we could make sure that the students were well prepared.” During her teaching tenure, Doc Schelly taught biology to hundreds of students until C-SC’s 26th president, Dr. Kelly M. Thompson, appointed her to the position of Vice President
for Academic Affairs and Dean of the College. Reflecting upon the transitions that have occurred during her professional journey, Lauren expressed gratitude for the environment that Culver-Stockton nurtured while on her path towards presidency.
“I remember talking with President Emeritus Dick Valentine in 2011 about the opportunity to serve as a Division Chair, and he was always very supportive of my early efforts to become more engaged in understanding college operations. Later, when I was the VPAA, President Emerita Thompson was the first one to say, ‘You know, maybe you should think about being a college president at some point.’ I didn’t dream that I’d be able to have that opportunity at Culver-Stockton.” For Schellenberger, there is value in recognizing another’s strengths and encouraging them to pursue opportunities. Much like Dr. Thompson encouraged Lauren’s path leading to the presidency, she said the same must be true in the classroom.
| LEADING FROM “THE HILL” DR. LAUREN B. SCHELLENBERGER NAMED 28TH PRESIDENT |
“Through relationship building with our students, we encourage them by pointing out things like, ‘Have you ever thought about going to medical school, or have you ever thought about being a teacher?’ It might be something that the students have never considered. But if a faculty member recognizes that potential in them, that spark may just be all they need to start thinking of themselves differently. It can completely change their life’s trajectory.”
As Dr. Schellenberger fully embraces her new role as the 28th President of Culver-Stockton College, she is mindful of the student experience and is strategically adopting practices that position the college for long-term success.
2008
During the work day, Dr. Schellenberger makes it a priority to eat lunch in the cafeteria, surrounded by students and fellow C-SC employees. She attends ACE (academic and cultural events) and student life activities as her schedule allows. The bond of community and education is missional for Lauren.
2011
“I think of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) identity, particularly being a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world, with an open table where all are welcome. We need to embrace that throughout all of our endeavors at the College, recognizing that our collective mission is to graduate students of promise.” As President Schellenberger leads the college in developing the next strategic plan, she recognizes the importance of an inclusive process involving students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community leaders. She plans to build upon a culture of student engagement that focuses on body, mind, and spirit to promote the mission of C-SC.
HIRED AT CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY
2014
CHAIR, DIVISION OF NATURAL AND MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY CHAIR, DIVISION OF APPLIED LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCES
2018
2019
2021
INTERIM VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AND DEAN OF THE COLLEGE VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS AND DEAN OF THE COLLEGE PROFESSOR OF BIOLOGY PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
2023
28TH PRESIDENT
WINTER 2024 | 29
| LEADING FROM “THE HILL” DR. LAUREN B. SCHELLENBERGER NAMED 28TH PRESIDENT |
As the school year began, Dr. Schellenberger led her first allcollege event to start the new academic year. On that occasion, she asked everyone one question: “What one word best describes Culver-Stockton College?” The resounding response was “community”.
“Every student admitted here is a student of promise. This community is committed to their success.”
The Culver-Stockton community includes over 15,000 C-SC alumni and friends across the country and world.
“We are so fortunate to have committed alumni and friends who contribute their time, talents, testimony, and financial wealth to support our mission, students, and future” Dr. Schellenberger is eager to continue growing in her new role. She shared that there are numerous strengths of Culver-Stockton College that need to be more widely known, and she is looking forward to making connections to help share our story. While she could tout C-SC’s successes for days
and naturally considers three points of distinction. An academic by nature, she led with the 12+3 calendar, which initially drew her to campus.
“Our calendar and curriculum are incredibly distinctive, and combined with the College’s support for travel study, we are providing students with an experience they could not get anywhere else.” Next, the growth of graduate and professional studies is being developed to serve the community and employers in the area, which demonstrates our commitment to academic excellence and the tri-state region. Dr. Schellenberger said when it comes to online and graduate studies, C-SC’s difference is the value we place on relationships.
“We’re still a small college with real people working in real offices that a student can call for advice,” she said. “Those online and graduate students can come to campus to attend events and speak to their advisor in person if they want, but they can still take all of their classes online. It’s the best of both worlds.” Lauren is also an active peer reviewer with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and knows the challenges that colleges and universities face. She said,
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| LEADING FROM “THE HILL” DR. LAUREN B. SCHELLENBERGER NAMED 28TH PRESIDENT |
“We have to get better, be more innovative, and consider engaging students outside our traditional age group in order to thrive.” Finally, she believes there is an opportunity to maximize the impact of the growth in the student-athlete population. Currently, enrollment at C-SC is made up of more than 70% student-athletes, and athletics have become an increasingly important part of society. Lauren said,
“We have the potential to create new programs and cocurricular activities and improve existing programs that make us appealing for student-athletes who are looking for a top-tier academic environment while they continue to participate in their sport. Athletics and academics enhance each other at a small college like Culver-Stockton, just as our fine arts programs and Greek Life enrich our community.” As the College prepares for its 175th anniversary in 2028, President Schellenberger will partner with the new chairman of the board, H.B. Turner ’79, to position the College for enrollment sustainability and financial growth through the development of a new strategic plan. For now, the College community is looking forward to inaugurating its 28th president on Thursday, April 11, 2024.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to celebrate the College. There are so many ways that we will be able to highlight our students and the entire College community in this celebration, and the inauguration will give us an excuse to share the good work they are all doing!”
It certainly will be a historic day at Culver-Stockton College as we officially inaugurate Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger as our 28th president and gather as a community to celebrate this incredible moment on “the Hill.” Years from now, we hope to reflect upon this moment in time and give thanks for a thriving College, led by the
homegrown leadership of “Doc Schelly,” who was known as transformational, witty, and passionate about the student experience. For this president was the one who articulated the value of our unique education and the connections we made around the world.
You are cordially invited to
THE INAGURATION OF CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE’S 28 TH PRESIDENT HONORING
Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2024 | 10 A.M.
WAYS TO PARTICIPATE Attend the Inauguration Watch the Livestream Make a gift honoring Dr. Schellenberger to the Student Scholarship Fund or other area of your choosing culver.edu/give Refer a prospective student culver.edu/alumni/refer-a-wildcat/ Meet the President at upcoming events Leave well-wishes for Dr. Schellenberger Scan here to particpate. OPEN THE CAMERA APP, CENTER THE CODE ON THE SCREEN FOR A COUPLE OF SECONDS. TAP THE NOTIFICATION THAT POPS UP TO OPEN THE LINK. OR, VISIT CULVER.EDU/INAUGURATION WINTER 2024 | 31
2023 DON TOLLY ’87
TERRY TRAEDER
PHYLLIS HOFMEISTER
CHRIS HUEBOTTER ’97
DR. C. PATRICK HOTLE Dome Award
KATHLEEN (ARNSMAN) HELSABECK ’06
TRENT PLATZ ’06
DANIEL O. DICKINSON ’72
Leadership & Service Award
Honorary Wildcat Award
Outstanding Young Alumnus
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Leadership & Service Award
Dome Award
Outstanding Young Alumnus
Distinguished Alumnus
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2023Outstanding Alumni Honorees Eight individuals recognized during Alumni Honors Banquet
E
fishing, bow hunting, and traveling. He is married to Kerry and has two children, Matthew and Katlyn, and two stepchildren, Maddie and Katie.
“When I look around the room at our honorees tonight, I am truly in awe of the things that they have done for Culver-Stockton College and within their own communities. You continue to be shining examples of the best values of faith and the human spirit demonstrated here at Culver-Stockton College.” - C-SC President Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger
Traeder who is married to C-SC alumna, Glori (Holmes) ’98, has served on the C-SC Board of Trustees since 2012. He has owned several businesses in retail, wholesale distribution, manufacturing, finance, and real estate. He is currently president of TNT Golf Car & Motorsports. Outside of work, Traeder enjoys golf, tennis, racing, and traveling. He became a national and professional karting champion, having raced karts throughout the United States for 36 years. Elected to the Racing Hall of Fame in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2021, Traeder is still active in the sport, promoting karting close to home at the track in West Quincy, Missouri. He and Glori reside in Quincy, Illinois. They have three children, Jason, Tara, and Paige, and three grandchildren, Calvin, Ben, and Silas.
ach year a core highlight during Culver-Stockton College homecoming weekend is the Alumni Honors Banquet. This special evening recognizes alumni and friends who demonstrate leadership and dedication to C-SC and within their communities. This year’s event took place on October 27, in the Gladys Crown Student Center with C-SC Alumni Board President Steve Oslica ’80, presenting the awards.
“We have the privilege to recognize some of the best leaders in the history of our College. Their experiences and backgrounds are varied and unique making these awards very meaningful.” -College Alumni Board President Steve Oslica ’80
HONOREES WERE: Don Tolly ‘87 – Leadership & Service Award Tolly has worked in the insurance industry for 36 years, including 34 years with American Family Insurance. A certified member of the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters, Tolly operates three offices with locations in St. Joseph, Kansas City, and Columbia, Missouri. He was awarded the Community Impact Award for the state of Missouri for American Family Insurance in 2022 and was named one of the 50 Missourians You Should Know by Ingram’s Magazine in 2021. Outside of work, Tolly enjoys
Terry Traeder – Leadership & Service Award
Phyllis Hofmeister – Honorary Wildcat Award Hofmeister has a passion for her community and believes in personally getting involved and engaged. She received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from C-SC in 2006. She has been active with local nonprofit organizations, including Cheerful Home, where she was instrumental in developing an Infant Care Center. Hofmeister’s other community involvement includes serving on the boards of First Bankers Trust Company, N.A., First Bankers Trust Share, Inc., TI Trust, Inc., and Blessing Hospital Foundation. She served as a C-SC trustee board member for 13 years. She has been married for 63 years to her husband, Bob, who is also active in the community. The couple enjoys traveling and spending time with their son, Kurt, and his family.
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Chris Huebotter ’97 – Dome Award While a student at C-SC, Huebotter worked as a student employee in the registrar’s office and joined in a full-time capacity in 1982. Throughout her 40-year employment, she has developed a reputation of respect and loyalty. She is credited with implementing two administrative computer systems, including online registration and advising programs. She volunteers with Hadlee’s Hope, which provides snack bags for school kids, and serves as a board member of the Lewistown Senior Housing Corp. and the Lewis County Industrial Development Association. She has been married to her husband, Jack, for 40 years. They have a daughter, Sarah Setzer, and her husband, Nick. They also have three grandchildren, twins Ryann and Rylee, and grandson Rowdy. Outside of work, she enjoys sewing, crafting, gardening, and watching sports.
Dr. C. Patrick Hotle – Dome Award Dr. Patrick Hotle, the John A. Sperry Jr. Endowed Chair of Humanities, taught at C-SC for 30 years before retiring in 2023 and was then named professor emeritus. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the University of Iowa, his Master of Philosophy in international relations, and
his Ph.D. in history from Cambridge University in England. Hotle was a Fulbright Scholar in Turkey and a Schusterman Fellow at Brandeis University. He began his career teaching high school at Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He then taught at the American-Nicaraguan School in Nicaragua, the Cairo-American College in Egypt, St. John’s International School in Belgium, and the American School of the Hague in the Netherlands before joining the faculty at Culver-Stockton College. Hotle has received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and the President’s Award for Exemplary Service. He has authored books on the Renaissance, Egypt and the Middle East, and Russia. He enjoys traveling, horses, and music. He is married to Mary Oatman ’79, graduate of C-SC.
Kathleen (Arnsman) Helsabeck ‘06 – Outstanding Young Alumna Helsabeck graduated C-SC in 2006 with a Bachelor of Arts in history and political science. She earned her master’s degree in library and information science from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana in 2008. She is a member of the Chi Omega sorority. Helsabeck was employed as a librarian and dean of education at Vatterott College before serving as the executive director of the Quincy Public Library in Quincy,
“I learned a lot of life lessons at Culver-Stockton, but the most valuable one is the priceless value of true lifelong friendship.” -Trent Platz ’06
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| O U T S TA N D I N G A L U M N I H O N O R E E S | Illinois. The library, with thirty employees, operates in both government and nonprofit capacities, allowing Helsabeck to apply her knowledge in political science. She is married to Chris ’04, and they have two children, Nathanial and Adeline. She is an organist and active member of the First Christian Church in Quincy.
Trent Platz ’06 – Outstanding Young Alumnus Platz is a 2006 graduate of C-SC and received his master’s degree in medical science at Emory University. He is a certified anesthesiologist assistant at St. Joseph Center for Outpatient Surgery. He is also an adjunct professor of anesthesiology at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. In his free time, Platz paddled 340 miles with friends in the Missouri American Water MR340 race which supports river clean-ups, diverse educational programs, and recreational events to aid in community building. Platz established the Rat Pack Endowed Scholarship at C-SC in 2018. Additionally, Platz and friends gather annually to honor Sergeant Matt Lewellen by rucking twenty-six miles in his memory. Outside of work, Platz, who resides in Kansas City, enjoys traveling, fishing, mushroom hunting, and cryptozoology.
Dan Dickinson ’72 – Distinguished Alumnus Dan Dickinson attended C-SC from 1968-1971. He received a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Western Illinois University. His career was in the aviation industry, where he became a partner at the age of twenty-six with General Aviation Services, Inc., a global company responsible for acquiring and selling corporate and jet business aircraft. His community involvement includes serving as a chair and founding member of the National Aircraft Resale Association and chair and founder of Transplant Village, NFP. He served as the external board chair of Northwestern Medicine Comprehensive Organ Transplant Center and on the board of St. Norbert College from 1999-2021. He enjoys business start-up projects, boating and outdoor activities, and spending time with his wife, Nancy, and daughters, Laurie and Ann.
“We are all given talents. They are all different and at different levels. But no matter what your talents are, it’s how we use them that matters. Helping and enhancing learning is a great way to give back.” -Phyllis Hofmeister
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WILDCAT STUDENT THE
Experi
STUDENT LIFE • HEALTH & WELLNESS • SPIRITUAL LIFE • DINING SERVICES • STUDENT SUCCESS • CAREER & INTERNSHIP SERVICES • CAMPUS SAFETY
I
n the 170 years since Culver-Stockton College was founded, it has stayed committed to its mission of preparing students with the knowledge to thrive in a dynamic world. This promise is carried out within a supportive learning community, where students have diverse opportunities to connect with individuals and participate in world-class experiences. Meeting the ever-changing needs of its students has always been a high priority at Culver-Stockton College. Vice President for Student Experience Dr. Angie Royal joined C-SC in July 2021. The knowledge she garnered from 20+ years of student affairs experience made her a perfect fit for the position. Knowing each generation is different, Royal ensures that the student experience on “the Hill” continually evolves. Student Life services cover all areas of a student’s college journey outside the classroom besides athletics. Residential life, dining services, campus safety, and student success are just a few areas under this umbrella. Royal and her team are responsible for ensuring the student experience on “the Hill” meets (or exceeds) the standards of excellence. Today’s students come to “the Hill” with different wants and needs. Their
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experiences are changing expectations of communication, technology usage, and outcomes. But despite the need to move with the evolving times, Royal noted some things will never change.
They will always feel supported, heard, seen, and empowered.
C-SC students will never be just a face in the crowd.
“It is a wraparound approach with our students. It’s really about the student as a human and making certain that we’re providing them all the support that they need to be successful.” –Dr. Angie Royal
They will not fall through the cracks. They will never be without someone who cares.
Parents and student supporters will remain well-informed and connected.
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ience
“The greatest benefit that students have here is the amount of concern and care that our faculty and staff have for our students. And I know many institutions want to say that, but I see it and feel it here every day.” - Dr. Angie Royal Led by Interim Dean of Student Life Brian Walker, a few of the focus areas in student life are student engagement, residential life, and restorative justice, all of which play a part in the larger student experience framework. Residential life at C-SC represents more than 700 students housed in 13 residence halls across our 140-acre campus. For nearly ten months, the buildings become home on “the Hill” as our residence life team creates programming to build a community within the walls. Each hall has live-in staff, including peers who serve as residential assistants and professional staff as residential directors, who are all overseen by the coordinator of residence life.
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT & RESIDENT LIFE This department is committed to building a welcoming and inclusive learning community that fosters the development and empowerment of students of promise. The office supports creating a healthy environment designed to offer students opportunities to connect to the community, give back through engagement, and build leadership.
The coordinator of student engagement works with student leaders and organizations to plan and coordinate events on campus and in the residence halls. With over 35 student organizations on campus representing spiritual life, academics, and government, students are encouraged to learn and support personal growth in this inclusive community. The College also has a rich history of fraternity and sorority life options that support personal growth with common goals and aspirations. Students who commit to individual brotherhood or sisterhood commit to forming lifelong connections and friendships. Our facilities also include the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Recreation and
Wellness Center, which is very active during the early hours through late at night. Students have many equipment options and come together to participate in intramural sports.
HEALTH & WELLNESS With a campus-wide commitment to our students, Royal is focused on integrating health and wellness programming across campus. This effort recognizes the changing environment for students who need access to services affecting their well-being. The office is located in the Gladys Crown Student Center and is a safe place to discuss food insecurities, housing instability, and psychological stress factors. The College is committed to offering free in-person counseling sessions and around-the-clock access to mental health professionals. Whether counseling or providing mental health workshops to Wildcats, Director of Counseling and Wellness Jill Miller has the knowledge, experience, and resources to help and is passionate about her position. Additional services and projects supporting overall health and wellness to keep students engaged and successful are continually being explored.
“I feel I connect well with college students. Making a difference in their lives is my hope.” –Jill Miller WINTER 2024 | 37
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SPIRITUAL LIFE
helped further improve the student dining experience. Lindsay Dover, director of dining services, takes Culver-Stockton College aligns higher feedback to heart and makes changes learning with a higher purpose. By nurturing an environment that integrates to accommodate the students’ needs and desires. This fall, based on the service to others, social responsibility, student survey results, dining services and spiritual growth with academic adjusted hours to meet their schedules. study, we create a vibrant community that promotes the development of a well-rounded experience that cares STUDENT SUCCESS for the heart, soul, and mind. The student success office, located on the Rev. Dr. Mandy Tarpening ’99 started second floor of Carl Johann Memorial her chaplain duties in October 2023. Library, provides students with services Tarpening hit the C-SC campus and programming to support success running. She connected with students, in the classroom. The department is faculty, and staff and concentrated on newly directed by Kevin Hillman ’01, programming that focused on spiritual associate dean for academic success, connection. During the holiday and is assisted by Kaci Loveless-Hall season, she coordinated the Advent ’18, MEd ’21, assistant director of Assembly, a service of candlelight and student success, and accessibility communion. This service brought and diversity, equity, inclusion and together students, C-SC families, and belonging division coordinator. the community to celebrate Christmas. The center works directly with undergraduate students to help them DINING SERVICES overcome a wide array of challenges and achieve their academic goals. Services With three dining facilities on campus, include tutoring, guidance and support, the dining services department strives and disability accommodations. to support the College’s learning environments with various food options. Menu selections provide diverse nutritional choices and options for late-night snackers. The main dining room offers meals, a fully stocked salad bar, a sandwich station, a dessert bar, and hot and cold beverages. To meet the needs of students desiring other options, the Cat’s Pause and The Lab offer quick-order grilled foods in coffee shop-style environments. Through student surveys, the college gathered additional suggestions that 38 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
the student success team to reach out and match up services that best meet the students’ needs.
“Hillman’s personal approach is well-received by the students. For the few months he’s been here, he has really invested his heart into our students.” –Dr. Angie Royal
CAREER & INTERNSHIP SERVICES Career and Internship Services Director Missy Dubuque ’88 and her team are dedicated to nurturing students’ professional development, ultimately preparing them for a career. The department assists with crafting professionally written resumes, cover letters, and graduate applications. The C-SC Career Closet, housed in Dubuque’s area, provides students with access to professional attire at no cost. Additionally, the department facilitates connections between students and alumni producing a vibrant professional community.
CAMPUS SAFETY
The department offers individual and group tutoring for courses. In addition, programming efforts support test-taking tips, time management, attendance, and college expectations that assist students in meeting their personal and academic goals.
The College is fortunate to have former law enforcement officer W.G. Lewis ’96 as the director of security. He and his team of security officers ensure the safety of students, faculty, visitors, and other staff members on campus.
The early alert system, which provides for early communication from faculty and the broader C-SC community concerning students who may be facing challenges, allows
The office oversees student safety, grounds patrol, campus building security, parking, event security, and much more. They are instrumental in providing security and safety updates for the campus.
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“Lewis effectively connects with the students and helps link the student experience with contacts and resources when needed,” –Dr. Angie Royal The campus safety department partnered with C-SC criminal justice professor Seth McBride to train in the college’s new Critical Response Simulation Lab. This live, virtual training center uses Multiple Interactive Learning Objectives (MILO) software. The customizable programming focuses on de-escalation and conflict resolution techniques for those involved in critical situations. In addition, Royal noted the campus received a $371,286 grant from the Department of Justice Office of Violence Against Women. The 3-year grant will be used on campus to strengthen security and investigation strategies targeting domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
“We already have great efforts in place, but this is going to provide us with much-needed resources to boost all of our prevention efforts.” –Dr. Angie Royal
LOOKING AHEAD The focus on students is at the forefront of the College’s efforts. By integrating the student experience into recruitment, retention, and alumni development, the department ensures a holistic approach to student support. Initiatives such as the necessities cupboard and the student crisis fund demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing the practical needs of students, especially in times of financial hardship or crisis. These resources can significantly alleviate stress and allow students to focus more on their academic and personal growth.
Revamping policies to foster inclusivity and safety is also crucial. Students need to feel valued, respected, and safe within their academic environment to thrive and succeed. By continuously reassessing and updating policies, the student experience department shows a commitment to creating a supportive and welcoming campus community for all students. Overall, these initiatives reflect the department’s dedication to enhancing the student experience and creating a conducive environment for learning, personal development, and success. As Culver-Stockton College continues to grow and expand, prioritizing student needs will remain essential in fostering a thriving academic community.
“I don’t think there is an area of student life that we’re not thinking about and asking ‘WHAT’S NEXT FOR US?’” -Dr. Angie Royal
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| D O N AT I O N S AT W O R K |
Donations at
WORK
NICHOLS FIELD SCOREBOARD Culver-Stockton College President Dr. Lauren B. Schellenberger accepted a donation from Bev Dunn ’65 on behalf of the George and Mary Frances Nichols Foundation to fund a new 36-foot LED scoreboard installed at Nichols Field. Nichols Field was built in 2000. Twenty-three years later, the foundation continues its legacy by improving the field that holds the Nichols family name. Wildcat Baseball Coach Brad Gyorkos ’15 is very thankful for the foundation’s support.
“I have been proud to play and coach on Nichols Field, and the new scoreboard is very much appreciated. We hope the scoreboard showcases many Wildcat wins for years to come.” - Coach Brad Gyorkos “George and Frances would be proud of Culver-Stockton College and the accomplishments of the baseball program, not only in wins, but also a program that helps develop leadership, life, and professional skills in the young men who participate in C-SC baseball.” -Bev Dunn Mrs. Frances Nichols ’46 graduated from Culver-Stockton College, and to date, four generations of the family have graduated from the College. For fifty years, George and Frances operated Nichols Implement in Canton. Through their foundation, they have created a legacy of giving within the community by supporting endowed scholarships and special projects.
40 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
NEW ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP The Rev. Steven ’71 and Dr. Jean Disseler Endowed Scholarship was established in 2023 to provide financial assistance for students pursuing a degree at Culver-Stockton College who are a part of the men’s or women’s golf team. Rev. Disseler earned a degree in Religion and Philosophy and was a member of the C-SC men’s golf team. His love for golf is apparent and he continues to play the game today.
PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR EXEMPLARY SERVICE An endowment for the President’s Award for Exemplary Service was funded by Marg Coker-Nelson ’60 in recognition of the commitment her family, Joe C and Mae Hootman, have for education. The gift will support annual recognition of faculty and staff who exemplify extraordinary and distinguished service to Culver-Stockton College and/or the larger community. The award recognizes service that goes “above and beyond” one’s normal duties and responsibilities, has had a significant and positive impact on the College and/or the community, and reveals a personal and selfless commitment to the betterment of the campus and/or community.
| T R I - S TAT E D E V E L O P M E N T |
TRI-STATE DEVELOPMENT AT CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE EARNS PRESTIGIOUS 2023 ENGAGED UNIVERSITY AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Culver-Stockton College’s Leslie Sieck, executive director of Tri-State Development and vice president for economic & workforce development, was recognized and presented with the 2023 Engaged University Award of Excellence by the University Economic Development Association (UEDA). The national honor was presented in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the UEDA annual summit in mid-October.
“We are proud to have leaders from higher education institutions across the country validate our efforts and recognize the impact of Culver-Stockton College’s commitment to regional economic development.” -Executive Director Leslie Sieck UEDA notified C-SC earlier in the year that the Tri-State Development program was a finalist for the award, which is presented to one university each year for an initiative that demonstrates excellence in linking place, talent, and innovation for the betterment of the community through the development of partnerships and programs. Other finalists for this award included the University of Texas at Dallas and Virginia Tech. All three finalists presented their programs at the UEDA Summit. Sieck represented Culver-Stockton College and presented the unique collaborative, academic program to the attending body, who voted overwhelmingly to name C-SC as the 2023 national award winner.
Iowa, and Missouri gathered for the Summit to participate in workshops, break-out sessions, and to learn from speakers on topics critical to regional economic development. Topics included broadband, childcare, housing, entrepreneurship, workforce shortages, transportation projects, economic development strategies, and the arts as placemaking drivers. Culver-Stockton College faculty members Dr. Cindy Whiston, Dr. Lindsay Uhlmeyer, and Dr. Lacy Harrison provided a presentation on alternate paths to certification to help address the critical teacher shortage in our region. The event drew community and business leaders, elected officials, political delegates, educators, C-SC students, and nationally recognized speakers.
“Culver-Stockton College and Tri-State Development are committed to partnering with those working within our communities to foster economic growth. With an understanding that we can accomplish more when we all work together, we will continue to invest in the programs, projects, and people of the tri-state region.” -Executive Director Leslie Sieck
UEDA, established in 1976, works to bring together higher learning institutions, nonprofits, business leaders, government organizations, and community economic groups to enhance economic opportunity in both a local and regional capacity. Sieck’s leadership is evident in her commitment and dedication to the continued development of C-SC and the Tri-State Development program. The announcement of the prestigious award followed a successful Tri-State Development Summit, which was held in Quincy, Illinois, at the Oakley-Lindsay Center on September 13-14, 2023. More than 200 stakeholders from Illinois,
WINTER 2024 | 41
| CLASS NOTES |
1960s DUANE ’62 and BARBARA (SCHRAM) ’65 DAGLEY are enjoying retirement
from DH Dagley Assoc. Inc. They have moved to Monroe, Ga. to be close to their oldest daughter, Susan. Their children, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren are keeping them busy.
DR. DENISE (BONTZ) D’ARCA ’74 is
professor emerita of music from Ohio Northern University and has returned as an adjunct to supervise music student teachers. She has been married to Dr. Rick D’Arca for 46 years and they have two sons, Paul of Ada, and Tony (deceased). Denise is in her second year of tap-dancing lessons after knee replacement. They reside in Ada, Ohio.
can be reached at brmbj3@gmail.com for more information about the play. Ben and Roxanne live in Lees Summit, Mo.
WILDA (PASLEY) HAAS ’63 has
been married for 55 years and has 2 children, 5 grandchildren, and 3 greatgrandchildren. She retired after teaching high school English and Spanish at Chillicothe, Mo. and New Bloomfield, Mo., where she currently resides.
CARA MURDOCH ’76 is an assessor and
training specialist at McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership for National Louis University. She travels the state of Illinois conducting preschool assessments for the Illinois State Board of Education. She has added additional credentials in Illinois for early childhood environment rating scales, technical assistance and school age and youth development. Cara resides in Washington, Ill.
KIM ANDERECK ’69 resides in San
Antonio, Texas with his wife, Cynthia. Kim is a senior vice president of franchise sales for Steak ‘n Shake Company. It is his 10th year as a board member for Baylor University’s Professional Selling Program, Hankamer School of Business, in Waco, Texas. Kim is a founding father of Eta Omicron Chapter of ATO at Culver-Stockton.
CHARLES (CJ) JOHNSON ’77 retired
1970s STEVEN CHURCH ’70 has retired after
41 years in the ministry. He lives in Boonsboro, Md. He was president and one of the founders of Beta Gamma Phi (ATO) on the campus of C-SC.
JENKINS DAVIS ’70 of Barrington, Ill. was
selected for the 2023 Thornton Township High School (Illinois) Hall of Fame. He was selected for his notable contributions to the educational mission of Thornton and for distinctive accomplishments in his career. JAMES (JAY) THORNTON ’72 is retired
and lives in Muscatine, Iowa with his wife, Margo. He continues to instruct basic Spanish classes for Blackhawk College courses for adults. He is grateful to Miss Sandy for teaching him Spanish at C-SC. LARRY ROEDER ’74 recently co-authored
and published a book, the first study ever done on the impact of segregated education of the Black community in Loudoun County, Va. He credits Culver-Stockton with starting his academic interest in the field. Professors Holmes and Sperry started a Black History club so the campus could learn more about African-American history. The book is titled Dirt Don’t Burn. 42 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
ROBERT CARDEN ’75 retired after 38
years in law enforcement. He is currently an adjunct instructor of criminal justice for Columbia College in Columbia, Mo. He resides in Buckeye, Ariz. KATHRYN (PROSCH) GIBSON ’75 has
retired and is traveling and enjoying life. Kathy and her husband, Rick, live in Temple Terrace, Fla.
ROBERT JOHNSON ’75 received the
Kiwanian of the year award for 2023 from the Quincy Noon Kiwanis Club in Quincy, Ill. where he resides.
BEN MARTIN ’75 wrote an original play, A
Candle Against the Dark, that follows the story of a Kansas City area family in 1942 as they battled polio which infected all five of their sons. Working in cooperation with the Rotary Club of Lees Summit and other area Rotary organizations, the play was produced at Englewood Arts Center in Independence, Mo. Produced as a fundraiser for Polio Plus, Rotary International’s ongoing program to battle the last remaining vestiges of this terrible disease, the play netted over $140,000 in ticket sales. Ben
in February 2023 after a career in education and continues to coach and officiate wrestling. His career in education began in 1983 with Chicago Public Schools. His first position after college was with the Chicago Transit Authority and he continued work with the ATU Local 241 until 2005. CJ lives in Indian Trail, N.C. with his wife, Ellen. PATRICIA BENDER ’78 retired after
teaching for 40 years in Hannibal, Mo. and Green City, Mo. schools. Patricia is a resident of Kirksville, Mo.
1980s RONALD (FRED) EAST ‘82 is a
district manager with Healthcare Services Group from Bensalem, Pa. He has held this position for the past six years and is currently responsible for nine nursing facilities in Kansas and Missouri. Ron has two daughters, a stepson, and nine grandchildren. Ron resides in Independence, Mo.
| CLASS NOTES |
1990s JOHN DABNEY ’94 has been inducted
2010s DANIELLE (WILSON) HEDGES ‘11
into the Missouri Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. John retired as a coach and teacher for Milan High School. He is married to ANDREA (RYAN) DABNEY ’95 and they live with their family in Milan, Mo.
works for Blessing Health System in Quincy, Ill. as the talent acquisition manager. Danielle and her husband, Josh reside in LaGrange, Mo, with their three daughters, Hadley, Kennedy, and Emersyn.
CHRIS FLETCHER ’94 works as an
football and track coach for Charleston R-1 School District in Charleston, Mo. The track team won the Class 2 Boys Track and Field State Championship. Justin and BRITTANY (KOETTERS) ’11 and their family reside in Charleston.
investigator for Lockheed Martin and lives in Stafford, Va. He retired in July 2023 from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) after serving 20 years as a special agent. The job allowed him to do things all over the world. His career culminated in being one of only two executives within the DEA that made all disciplinary decisions related to employee misconduct. After retiring, he was hired by Lockheed Martin as part of their counterintelligence/investigative team to protect their company and employees.
DEREK MASON ’18 signed his first
Charter Communications, Inc. in St. Louis, Mo. where she resides.
promoted to associate vice president of marketing and communications for Georgetown College in Georgetown, Ky. Emily lives with her husband, John in Lexington, Ky.
2000s
nursing home administrator for HMG Healthcare in Crowley, Texas. Dylan lives in Fort Worth, Texas.
JUSTIN HUTCHINGS ‘11 is the head
BRENDA (SCHWASS) BOYDSTON ’97 is a senior lead accountant for
EMILY (BONNELL) MCCARTHY ‘97 was
DYLAN GADBERRY ’16 is a licensed
ALAURA (LITTLE) COWART ’12, LEAH (SCHMIDT) BUCKMAN ’12, KAYLA (PICKEL) RICHMOND ’12, ALISON (SCHMIDT) ROBINSON ’09, all gathered
professional contract to be a public address announcer for professional volleyball. Since moving to Phoenix after graduation, Derek has been a public address announcer for two NAIA schools, Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, San Francisco Giants Spring Training, the PAC-12 Baseball Tournament and professional women’s hockey championship game. Derek lives in Phoenix.
for the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memphis Marathon in December, 2023. All are Chi Omegas and together raised more than $13,838 for the children of St. Jude.
ERIN RILEY ’01 is a board member of the
Show-Me State Opticians Society. Erin is employed with Custom Eyes in Lenexa, Kan. and resides in Overland Park, Kan.
SARA (ELLIS) HOOKER ’03 was promoted
to regional program manager of the St. Louis region for hospital medicine. She lives in Barnhart, Mo. with her husband, Jamie and three children, Jack, Reese, and Faith. CHRISTOPHER WOLCOTT ’07 is a
senior project manager for Electrical Wholesale Supply Co. Inc. He resides in Idaho Falls, Idaho.
REV. ZACHARY MARTIN ‘09 moved to
Troy, Mich. in September to become senior minister of Central Woodward Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Troy, Mich.
MITCHELL BARTON ’16 has been
promoted to sergeant for the Pittsfield, Ill. Police Department. He resides in Nebo, Ill. with his wife, MERCEDES (SPURGEON) ’19 and their son, Steven, age 1.
WINTER 2024 | 43
| CLASS NOTES |
WEDDINGS
PETERS ’21, and BRANDON BUSENHART ’21. The Myers reside in Quincy, Ill.
MADISON (MAUPIN) BISHOP ’20 and
KRISTEN (BRINGER) O’BRYAN ‘18
Levi Bishop were married June 3, 2023. They reside in New Franklin, Mo.
married Grant O’Bryan on September 23, 2023. The family resides in Palymra, Mo.
Julia and DYLAN DONOVAN ’16 were married Jan. 7, 2023 in St. Louis, Mo. The couple currently reside in Granby, Ct. JORDAN (IRWIN) EILERS ’14
KINDI CONRY-LANGE ‘20 & JANNICK LANGE ‘23
married Scott Eilers on Aug. 18, 2023. They reside in Davenport, Iowa.
JESSICA ’21 & DALTON MYERS ’21
MCKENZIE (LATHROM) EPPERSON ’23
and Aidan Epperson were married on Sept. 23, 2023. They reside in New London, Mo. BRANDIE COLBERT HAUSDORF ’20 and BRAEDYN HAUSDORF ’21 were
MADISON ’20 & LEVI BISHOP
JULIA & DYLAN DONOVAN ‘16
married June 4, 2023. The officiant was Dr. Scott Giltner. C-SC participants in the wedding were AUTUMN DOTY ’20,
MADISON EISENBERG ’20, JESSICA DWYER ’23, SYDNEY NEUNER ’21, RYAN GIBSON ’21, GEORDAN HAUSDORF ’19, CAMERON HOLMES ’20. LUKE WILLIAMS ’20, DANIEL WELCH ’21 and RILEY KEIM ’20. The
KRISTEN ’18 & GRANT O’BRYAN
BIRTHS
Hausdorfs reside in Moberly, Mo.
ALEXA (KLOCKE) ’21 and COOPER HUDNUT ’21 were married Aug. 5,
2023. C-SC friends in the wedding included KAELEE OGLE ’21, ALAN LEYVA ’21, and MATT KLEIN ’20. The Hudnuts reside in Mission, Kan.
JORDAN ‘14 & SCOTT EILERS
MCKENZIE ’23 & AIDAN EPPERSON
Brett and AVERY (JOHNSON) BENNETT ‘19 are parents of a daughter, Ren Jolee, born July 23, 2023. The Bennett family resides near Durham, Mo.
LAKEN (HUGENBERG) ’22 and NICK JANNEY ’16 were married July 8, 2023
and reside in Kansas City, Mo. C-SC friends in the wedding included DREW HORNER ’16, DYLAN MCKINNON ’14, DREW SHUMAN ’15, JOSH LEE ’13, and JAMIE (JANNEY) MCKINNON ’14. KINDI CONRY-LANGE ’20 and JANNICK LANGE ’23 were married
LAUREN (JANNEY) BERHORST ’17
BRANDIE COLBERT HAUSDORF ‘21 & BRAEDYN HAUSDORF ‘20
CIARA (MACKEY) FOSTER ’14 and
Stephen Foster are parents of a son, Michael Gregory, born Sept. 15, 2023. The Foster family resides in Philadelphia, Mo.
JESSICA (BEAVER) ’21 and DALTON MYERS ’21 were married on Sept. 30,
44 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
and Brandon Berhorst are parents of a son, Brooks J., born October 24, 2023. Grandparents are JEFF ’86 and DELL ANN (BALK) ’87 JANNEY. The Berhorst family resides in Canton, Mo. Rachel and ETHAN BRAGG ‘13 are parents of a son, Lincoln Robert, born on Nov. 27, 2023. The Bragg family resides in Blue Springs, Mo.
June 10, 2023 and reside in Mendon, Ill. NATALIE (DODD) LEFTWICH ’20 was matron of honor. Bridesmaids included KELSIE (WAY) CRENSHAW ’19 and SAWYER THOMPSON ’20.
2023 in Camp Point, Ill. Alumni in the wedding party were CHEYENNE BEQUETTE ’21, ABIGAIL HEINECKE ’22, KRYSTAL SCHMITS-NOKES ’23, DANIELLE THURMAN ’21, RAYMOND
Leslie and AUSTIN BEEBE ’17 are parents of a daughter, Gianna Jordan Beebe, born August 23, 2023. The Beebe family resides in Oswego, Ill.
STEPHANIE (MAREK) FRANCO ’11 and ALEXA ’21 & COOPER HUDNUT ’21
LAKEN ‘22 & NICK JANNEY ‘16
Anthony Franco are parents of a daughter, Isabelle Leigh, born Feb. 23, 2023. The Franco family resides in Westminster, Ca.
| CLASS NOTES |
Rachel and JORDAN HAHN ’18 are parents of a son, Liam Charles born on June 15, 2023. The Hahn family resides in Quincy, Ill. Hannah and DREW HORNER ’16 are parents of a son, Austin Robert, born June 10, 2023. He joins big sister, Avery. The Horners reside near Canton, Mo. MELISSA (MOON) ’12 and KYLE ’10 MCKENNA are parents of a son, Asher,
BEEBE
BENNETT
BERHORST
BRAGG
FOSTER
FRANCO
HAHN
HORNER
MCKENNA
MUNGER
RANGEL
RYAN
SCHOLL
SCHOLZ
STILL
STUMPF
born March 22, 2023. The McKenna family resides in St. Charles, Mo. Corey and JESSICA (SCHINDLER) MUNGER ’18 are parents of a son, Ryker, born July 9, 2023. He joins big sister, Oaklynn. The Munger family resides in Frankford, Mo.
DEANDRA (BOCKHOLD) RANGEL ‘12
and Drew Rangel are parents of a son, Ripken born on June 15, 2023. He joins big sister, Amira. The Rangel family lives in Quincy, Ill. Hannah and WILL RYAN ’11 are parents of a daughter, Margaret (Maggie) Rae, born Sept. 3, 2023. She joins big sister, Abigail. The Ryan family resides in Columbia, Mo. KALLI (GORDANIER) ‘21 and LOGAN SCHOLL ‘19 welcomed a daughter,
Banks Renee on August 15, 2023. The Scholl family resides in Hannibal, Mo. JACOB SCHOLZ ’04 and Rebecca
Johnson welcomed a daughter, Elizabeth, born Feb. 13, 2023. She joins big sisters, Amelia and Olivia. The Scholz family resides in Quincy, Ill. Allison and NICK STILL ’12 are parents of a daughter, Georgia Elizabeth, born Nov. 11, 2023. She joins big brother, Kellan, age 3. The Stills reside in Wildwood, Mo. John and MEGHAN (TOWNLEY) STUMPF ’13 are parents of a son, Ewan Stephen Stumpf, born May 6, 2023. The Stumpf family resides in Kansas City, Mo.
Send us an update and photo of your new addition and we will send you a Wildcat onesie! Send your submissions to alumni@culver.edu
ANDREA (MAY) LEONE ‘08 and LANCE UHLMEYER ‘10 are parents to a son,
Declan Joseph, born on September 22, 2023. He joins big brother Grayden. The family resides in Canton, Mo.
UHLMEYER
WINTER 2024 | 45
| CLASS NOTES |
IN MEMORIAM CLASSES OF 1940S
ROBERT SMITH ’63
JOSEPH WILSON ’78
EMMA (SHEFFLER) EGLEY VANAUSDELL ’40
LOIS (HOLMAN) SUNDERMAN ’63
EARL PRUITT ’79
JEAN DEHAVEN ’64
CLASSES OF THE 1980S
Quincy, Ill. • July 21, 2023
IMOGENE (ROBISON) EAMES ’42
Kansas City, Mo. • Oct 7, 2023
DOROTHY (FARMER) BRANSON ’45
Rockledge, Fla. • Aug. 3, 2023
CATHERINE (MCCOLLOCH) SYKES ’45
Nacogdoches, Texas • Sept. 15, 2023
BETTY (GOODSELL) MANNAHAN ’48
Canton, Ill. • Aug. 1, 2023
CLASSES OF THE 1950S MARGARET (SCHUESSLER) AYAN ’50
Louisville, Colo. • July 20, 2023
ALICE (HUNDLEY) CONSTANTZ ’50
Loveland, Colo. • Oct 9, 2023
H. MAURINE (HAYDEN) ROBINSON ’52
Memphis, Mo. • Sept. 14, 2023 HAROLD POTTKER ’53
Elgin, Ill. • May 26, 2023 JOAN (GUSTAFSON) YINGST ’53
Vernon Hills, Ill. • Sept. 13, 2023 JOAN (NETZEL) PHILIP ’54
Elmhurst, Ill. • June 28, 2023 MARJORIE (MILLION) LOVEGREEN ’55
Palmyra, Mo. • Oct. 18, 2023
ROSANNE (REINHARDT) BERTSCHI ’56
Nauvoo, Ill. • July 30, 2023
BETTY (BERREY) MCCLINTOCK ’58
New London, Mo. • Aug. 3, 2023
CLASSES OF THE 1960S J. ROBERT COPPER ’61
Gainesville, Ga. • April 5, 2023 MARY (YONKER) BELEW ’63
High Point, N.C. • July 18, 2023 WILLIAM DEMARTINI ’63
Potomac, Mont. • Aug. 5, 2023
Lititz, Pa. • June 28, 2023 Yuma, Ariz. • June 17, 2023
Littleton, Colo. • April 12, 2023 JOHN DUBECK ’64
Munster, Ind. • April 5, 2023 MICHAEL MUELLER ’67
Brevard, N.C. • June 24, 2023 M. DIANNE (BRANSON) DOWNING ’68
Raleigh, N.C. • Sept. 20, 2023
San Antonio, Texas • April 8, 2023 BRENDA (WILKEY) MASTERS ’84
Monroe City, Mo. • Oct. 12, 2023
JONI (THOMPSON) EPPERSON ’87
Payson, Ill. • Aug. 10, 2023
CLASSES OF THE 1990S JERRY MOON ’92
Weston, Mo. • Sept. 21, 2023
STEPHEN PYLE ’68
STEFAN PEREA ’97
ROGER HEMPEN ’69
KENDRA (MCCANN) SEKSAY ’99
DENNIS KNOTTS ’69
CLASSES OF THE 2000S
Bowling Green, Ky. • Nov. 7, 2023 Keokuk, Iowa • Sept. 13, 2023 Las Cruces, N.M. • July 28, 2023 JOHN SPANN ’69
Jefferson City, Mo. • Oct. 11, 2023 M. JUNE (ALBSMEYER) STOLTE ’69
Jefferson City, Mo. • July 21, 2023
CLASSES OF THE 1970S KEITH FINK ’70
Dallas, Texas • Sept. 6, 2023 WILLIAM BUCKNER ’71
Canton, Mo. • Nov. 10, 2023 KATHI (SCHAEFFER) CRAMBLIT ’71
Beardstown, Ill. • Oct. 23, 2023 ANN (STOW) HAMMER ’72
Canton, Mo. • July 21, 2023 LESTER MCKIERNAN ’73
Quincy, Ill. • April 4, 2023 ARTHUR DARIEN ’74
San Antonio, Texas • June 19, 2023 RALPH TAYLOR ’75
Prattville, Ala. • April 13, 2023 SHERRYL MOORE ’77
Dallas City, Ill. • Sept. 14, 2023 46 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE
Surprise, Ariz. • Aug. 28, 2023
New Port Richey, Fla. • May 22, 2023 Wake Forest, N.C. • June 24, 2023
SARAH (SHUMAKER) DEGARMO ’03
Maywood, Mo. • Oct. 14, 2023 DEXTER GANT ’04
Jacksonville, Fla. • Nov. 12, 2023
FORMER PRESIDENT HAROLD DOSTER
Blue Ridge, Ga. • Oct. 27, 2023
FACULTY EMERITUS ROBERT SADLER
Monticello, Mo. • Aug. 24, 2023
HAVE YOU CHANGED JOBS, RETIRED, OR CELEBRATED A MILESTONE? In addition to updates you submit, we compile information from a variety of sources: campus event notices, newspaper and magazine articles, press releases, and Google alerts. Please submit updates to alumni@culver.edu
CONSIDER A GIFT FOR TOMORROW
ADVANCEMENT AND ALUMNI TEAM Scott Wills
PLANNED GIVING AT C-SC Planned Giving can help you establish or continue your legacy on “the Hill” by naming a scholarship, funding a program or capital project, or providing funds to meet Culver-Stockton College’s greatest needs. The impact of estate gifts has been essential to the long-term success of Culver-Stockton College, beginning with Robert Stockton’s transformational planned gift in 1923. Culver-Stockton College offers many opportunities to use estate planning to help realize your philanthropic goals and enjoy potential tax-saving benefits for yourself and your family, including: • Gifts in a Will (Bequests) • Beneficiary Designation (Life Insurance or Retirement Benefits) • Charitable Gift Annuities • Gifts of Real Estate, Securities, or Property • Trusts For more information about UNITE C-SC or to begin a conversation about Planned Giving, please contact the Culver-Stockton College Advancement Office at 573-288-6541 or advancement@culver.edu
Vice President for Advancement swills@culver.edu 573-288-6000 ext. 6390
Marjorie Ellison ’90
Senior Director of Advancement and Alumni mellison@culver.edu 573-288-6000 ext. 6541
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
Reyna Blakely
Associate Director of Alumni and Friends Engagement rblakely@culver.edu 573-288-6000 ext. 6397
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. WINTER 2024 | 47
One College Hill Canton, MO 63435 800-755-CATS alumni@culver.edu
48 | CULVER-STOCKTON COLLEGE CHRONICLE