Fall2012Focus

focus FRIENDS UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

|

FALL 2012

Special Section: Homecoming 2012

from the PRESIDENT

Dr. T.J. and Susan Arant

Susan and I have finished our first year at Friends University, and what a year it has been! We feel blessed to have found a place that feels like home and a community that has been so welcoming.

Inauguration activities the last week of March provided an opportunity for the University to shine, an opportunity to highlight the University within Wichita and the greater higher education community nationwide, and a chance to celebrate where we have been, where we are now, and where we will be in the future.

Susan and I were thrilled with the energy and excitement inauguration activities generated for Friends University. For weeks after the event, people in Wichita and on campus commented on what a wonderful event it was. Susan and I extend our thanks to the many staff, faculty, students, board members, dignitaries, delegates and others who served on the Inauguration Steering Committee and subcommittees, and worked or attended the event. We also want to give a special thanks to Executive Director of Alumni Relations Lisa Tilma who served as chair of the Inauguration Steering

2

F riends U niversity

focus

Committee, for all her time and effort to make inauguration a success. To view photos of inauguration, including an amazing transformation of Casado Campus Center’s McKay Gymnasium, see page 14.

At Commencement it was rewarding to see so many of our graduates heading into the world prepared to make new contributions to society. More than 900 graduates marched at four ceremonies in Wichita, Topeka and Kansas City.

A highlight among our graduation speakers was Rae Niles, a graduate of Friends University, who is now working at the national level with Apple to give K- to 12th-grade teachers creative curricula to use in the classroom.

Learn more about Rae on page 12 and find out why approximately 98 percent of Friends University graduates recommend a Friends University education.

Just as spring semester ended in mid-May, we made an announcement that created excitement in Wichita.

The University bought two buildings in the Historic Delano Business District to accommodate our visual arts department. This $3.5 million project will renovate a historic building and a warehouse building located one mile from campus. This is a unique opportunity to enhance our art students’ experiences and build a destination program in addition to expanding our footprint into the local community. We hope to have the facilities open by fall 2013. Read more about this project on page 9.

I also want you to know that we received word in June that our accrediting body renewed the

University’s accreditation. This reaffirmation is important not just because it certifies our compliance with federal regulation, but also because it confirms the good work our faculty and staff do every day. The Higher Learning Commission made special note of our dedication and commitment to continuous quality improvement by developing a culture of assessment, and they were impressed with the ways we build and maintain relationships with our stakeholders. They also recognized the services we offer to the Wichita area, including cultural programming for the community, therapeutic services offered by the Center on Family Living and community service projects through Campus Ministries.

As we begin our new academic year, our attention turns toward working with our Board of Trustees and our campus community to develop a new strategic plan for Friends University.

Our new leadership team is in place and ready to work with faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors and friends to identify the ways in which Friends University will become its 21st-century self.

Before we know it, Homecoming will be here. We hope you can join us for this important event that is highlighted on pages 16 to 19. We would love to welcome you to campus and visit about the plans the University has in store for the upcoming year.

All the best,

focus F riends

U niversity

President Dr. T.J. Arant Vice President of Institutional Advancement Tracy Muirhead

Summer renovations created a café atmosphere in the lower level of the Casado Campus Center. Jazzman’s Café and Bakery offers coffee-shop drinks and fresh-baked pastries, while the Sandella’s Flatbread Café menu includes paninis, wraps and salads.

In addition, the Garvey Physical Education Center’s gym floor was refinished to reflect changes in basketball regulations and to enhance volleyball court lines. The floor features new graphics and a unique two-color stain. See more photos at facebook.com/ FriendsUniversity/photos.

in this ISSUE 12 16

CHOOSING TO TEACH THE TEACHERS

Dr. Rae Niles leads Apple’s professional development team.

HOMECOMING 2012

Join Friends University for a week of exciting Homecoming celebration!

Executive Director of Alumni Relations Lisa Tilma Communications Director Gisele McMinimy Focus Editor and Publications Manager Kate Bosserman Contributing Writer Sara Ornelas Friends University Board of Trustees Mr. Eldon Alexander Dr. T.J. Arant Mr. Craig Bay Mrs. Marilyn Brown, LCMFT Mr. C. Bruce Burnett Mrs. Pam Chambers Mrs. Ardith Dunn Mr. Richard Fitzgerald Mr. Duane Hansen Mr. Kelly Linnens Dr. Cliffton Loesch Mrs. Jana Mullen Mr. Rodney Pitts Mrs. Shelly Prichard Mr. Edwin Roberts Dr. Rebecca Twietmeyer Mr. John Weber Mr. Michael Wilson Trustees Emeritus Mr. Carl Sebits Wichita Alumni Advisory Board 2011-12 Andi Stipp, G’01/M’07 – President Scot Pierce, G’96 – PresidentElect Monica Swift, G’94/’06/M’96 – Secretary Doug Berryman, M’01 Nicole Black, G’08 Jean Bowman, M’11 Troy Clark, G’97 Marvin Connet, G’82/’84 Terri Erker, G’04

PAGE 12

PAGE 16 About the Cover Faculty member Dr. Michelle Robertson shares collected thoughts during the inaugural installation ceremony of Friends University’s 13th president March 30 in the Garvey Physical Education Center’s gym. Joining Dr. Robertson on stage are former president Dr. Biff Green, board of trustees chair Rodney Pitts and president Dr. T.J. Arant.

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

|

VOL 3 7

|

NO 1

Donald Hernandez, M’12 Linda Hohler, G’94 Danielle Howard, G’10 Tyrena Judie, G’07/M’12 Lisa Kraemer, G’10/M’11 Michael Lacy, G’04 Olivia Martin, G’11 Lynn Matsler, G’10 DeeAnn Moss, G’07 Paul Nelson, G’07 Caren Remmers, G’02/’04 Ashley Scheideman, G’03/M’12 Dil Silva, G’11 Jennifer Wassemiller, G’00 Kansas City Alumni Advisory Board 2011-12 Neil Trickey, G’95/M’07 – President Jason Stewart, G’00 – President-Elect Craig Zernickow, G’96 – Secretary Barb Brown, G’84 Sheryl Dick, G’92 Jayneen Hammons, M’00 Dawn Kingery, G’83 Errol Logue, G’63 Steve Parscale, G’86/M’88 Topeka Alumni Advisory Board 2011-12 Mary Duncan, M’09 – President Joyce Hladky, M’09 – Secretary Jonathan Beatty, G’11 Whitney Cartmill, M’12 Sheryl Crawford, G’07/’10 Tricia Eddy, G’01 Woody Houseman, G’71/M’05 Selena McNaul, G’05 Darin Scott, G’09 Ex-Officio Members of the Alumni Advisory Board 2011-12 Bryan Wohlwend, G’97, 2011-12 President of the Wichita Alumni Advisory Board Nellie Weiss, G’05/’07/M’09, President of the Topeka Alumni Advisory Board Anthony Murdock, G’03/M’06, 2011-12 President of the Kansas City Alumni Advisory Board Dr. T.J. Arant, President of Friends University Tracy Muirhead, Vice President of Institutional Advancement Lisa Tilma, Executive Director of Alumni Relations Max Burson, Faculty Representative Michelle Brock, Faculty Representative Jeremy Schrag, SGA President

Friends University Focus is published two times each year in the winter and summer by the Communications Office, 2100 W. University Ave., Wichita, KS 67213. It is published for the alumni and friends of Friends University.

Friends University does not discriminate against academically qualified students on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding this policy: EEOC/Title IX Coordinator, Friends University, 2100 W. University Ave., Wichita, KS 67213, (316) 295-5000. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, 230 S. LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604; www.ncahlc.org; 1-800-621-7440.

Visit the Friends University website at: friends.edu

FALL 2012

3

ALUMNI

news

By Lisa Tilma, G’01/M’04, Executive Director of Alumni Relations

Message from the EXECUTIVE Director OF ALUMNI RELATIONS This past spring, I had the honor of

for being a part of this historic event

being named chair of the Presidential

in the life of the University. It was my

Inauguration Steering Committee

pleasure to be included in the planning

for Dr. T.J. Arant. With the help of 12

of this momentous occasion, and as an

committee members and numerous

alumna, I look forward to all the exciting

subcommittee members, the

things Dr. and Mrs. Arant will do while

University officially recognized Dr.

they are here with us at Friends!

and celebrated both him and his wife, Susan, as the newest members of the Friends family.

Having never been involved with an inauguration before, you can imagine how much I learned going through this process. But I can honestly tell

4

F riends U niversity

focus

is to create a strong Friends University presence at community events and to promote a healthier lifestyle.

To date, more than 350 runners have

and the Kansas Health Foundation River

day in March!

Contact the Alumni Office

the Run With Friends team. The mission

the Friends University campus in March,

the University shine on that special

you did attend, I sincerely thank you

you’ll want to become involved with

the President’s Inaugural Run hosted at

(large and small) were worth it to see

Dr. Arant’s inauguration on page 14. If

you like supporting a good cause? If so,

the past year, including most recently

meetings and tracking of the details

encourage you to read more about

Do you enjoy running or walking? Do

participated in four Wichita races during

you that the long hours, umpteen

If you were not able to attend, I

Come Run with Friends PHOTO BY STEVE RASMUSSEN

Arant as its 13th president March 30

The Run With Friends team winds down after the 2011 Wichita Prairie Fire Marathon.

Run in June. In conjunction with each

Former President Dr. Biff Green waits to hand off Friends University’s chain of office to Board of Trustees Chair Rodney Pitts and current President Dr. T.J. Arant.

run, local charities are also supported, including the Kansas Food Bank and the Wichita Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation.

The next Run With Friends team

316-295-5900 or 1-800-794-6945, ext. 5900 friends.edu/alumni alumni@friends.edu

event will take place at the Wichita Prairie Fire Marathon Oct. 14, 2012. Visit friends.edu/run for more information or send an email to runwithfriends@ friends.edu.

Coach Howe’s Legacy Remembered Former track and cross country athletes returned to Friends University June 2 to celebrate the life of Coach Mike Howe, who passed away in March 2008, and to reunite with members of his family.

Coach Howe’s children, Haley, Hannah and Logan, would often accompany their father and the team to meets across the country, and were ever-present at the team practices. Everyone who attended the “family” reunion shared stories and fond memories of their time

First row: Logan Howe, Haley Howe and Hannah Howe. Second row: Megan Hughes-Zarzo, G’00; Kim (Parks) Austin, G’00; Kurt Reeves, G’04; Toby Lee, G’03; Darham Rogers, G’04; Andrew Dyer, G’05; Mashanda Tatum, FS’03; Shametra Lipscomb, FS’03; and Clifton Johnson, G’01.

spent with Coach Howe. Hannah hoped that by having this special reunion, she and her siblings would be able to keep in regular contact with their father’s former students.

LICENSE PLATES ARE AVAILABLE! Friends University license plates are

Topeka, your license plate purchase will

now available in all Kansas county tag

benefit the Friends University Topeka

offices!

PACE Scholarship.

If you pre-purchased a license plate, the “Friends University License Plate

• If you live within a 30-mile radius chase will benefit the Friends University

letter were mailed the week of July 4.

Kansas City Alumni Advisory Board Bi-

Please contact the Alumni Office if you

Annual Scholarship.

• License plates purchased by all

pre-purchase a license plate, please con-

other Kansas residents will benefit

tact the Alumni Office for instructions.

the Friends University Wichita Alumni

The $30 special plate fee benefits

Advisory Board Endowed Scholarship

Friends University student scholarships: • If you live within a 30-mile radius of

Honoring James Arbertha.

Fees due at the time of registration include a one-time specialty plate fee of

COURTESY PHOTO

Each year, the Alumni Association recognizes students receiving the $1,000 Alumni Scholarship with a special luncheon for them and their families. It is with great pride that the Alumni Association celebrates Nicole Thompson as one of our three seniors who received the 2011-12 Alumni Scholarship.

Nicole is the daughter of Kristin (Rucker), G’84, and Thayne Thompson, G’83. As a student at Friends, Thompson sang in the Women’s Chorus, Concert Choir and Singing Quakers. Additionally, she was treasurer of Sigma Delta Pi, the Spanish honor society. Thompson graduated in May with an undergraduate degree in Spanish. She plans to pursue a graduate degree in fashion merchandising through the Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

of Kansas City, your license plate pur-

Certification form” and an instruction

did not receive the form. If you did not

CONGRATULATIONS 2011-12 SENIOR ALUMNI SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

$40, plus a one-time reflectorized plate fee of $0.50; annual regular registration fee, including a $5 county transaction fee; property taxes; and sales tax, if ap-

Senior Nicole Thompson, center, and her parents Kristin (Rucker), G’84, and Thayne Thompson, G’83.

Congratulations to Jennifer Decker and Joshua Funk, who also received the scholarship but were unable to attend, as well as 11 freshmen, sophomore and junior recipients.

plicable.

The $30 special plate fee benefitting Friends University student scholarships is collected each year.

The Friends University license plate is

Woody Houseman, G’71/M’05, is excited to show off is new plates!

not available for handicap or motorcycle plates.

FALL 2012

5

news in FOCUS NEW LEADERSHIP POISED FOR GROWTH

BY SARA ORNELAS Dr. Dona Gibson

as adult learners continuing to shape careers, makes every day

Friends University has been woven into

a joy and a blessing,” Klein said. “The enterprise in which we are

the fabric of Dr. Dona Gibson’s life since

engaged is so vital and transforming. I wake up with a smile every

she was young.

day knowing our work leads to so much good.”

“As a child, I attended athletic and mu-

Klein arrived in January from San Angelo State University in

sic events because my aunts and uncles

Texas where he was the associate vice president of enrollment

were students here,” said Dr. Gibson,

management. Klein brings more than 35 years of experience

interim dean of the Graduate School.

in enrollment management, admissions, financial aid, career

Later, she became part of the Friends University family – first as a student, graduating with an education degree in 1972 – and later as a faculty member. Since then, she has served as an administrator

services and other higher-education administrative positions.

Klein said the University has great potential to grow its enrollment and reputation and to impact the Wichita community.

“I want to be part of the team that helps create that growth,”

– as the director of the Master of Arts in Teaching program since

Klein said. “At the end of the day, we are in the business of

1991, and the chair of the Division of Arts, Education and Science

helping people reach their objectives and grow professionally.”

in the Graduate School since 2007.

Tracy Muirhead

Beginning her latest role as the interim dean of the Graduate School in July, Dr. Gibson will help transition her department to a

When Tracy Muirhead first stepped onto

new leader.

the Friends campus, she was drawn to the excitement and energy.

“Serving as interim dean of the Graduate School is an honor for

“All the right elements are in place

me,” she said. “The faculty, staff and administration are people

to move forward,” said Muirhead, the

I have known and admired for some time. Having a chance to assist these friends in providing quality

new vice president of Institutional

graduate programs for our students is

Advancement (formerly University

indeed a joy.”

Relations).

The leadership of a new president,

Steve Klein

the commitment of faculty, the development of a strategic

As the new vice president of Enrollment

plan, and “an absolutely beautiful campus” were some of the

Management, Steve Klein is a happy

noteworthy elements that attracted her.

Muirhead came to Wichita in July from Saint Vincent College

man.

“Working with young adults on the

in Latrobe, Penn., where she occupied a similar role to the one

verge of transforming their lives, as well

Ghana and Mexico Delegates Visit Campus

BY HANNAH PAULS, SENIOR Delegations from Ghana, West Africa, and Tlalnepantla and Cancun, Mexico, visited Friends University in May during their trips to Wichita.

The visits served to support trade and international relations, and to showcase the Wichita area. In anticipation of establishing an official relationship for future exchanges, Wichita city officials held discussion about a sister cities program with the Ghana delegation. Wichita shares sister city relationships with both Mexican cities.

6

F riends U niversity

focus

Senior Amber Teske walks arm-in-arm with Queen Mother Nartekie Kpabitey during the Ghana delegation’s visit.

continued on page 7

new leadership c o n t i n u e d f r o m p a g e 6 institutional advancement.

BY HANNAH PAULS, SENIOR

Muirhead said she has two important short-term goals in her new role at the University.

“First, I want to learn all I can about our traditions and history, as well as our opportunities and challenges, from a variety of our constituencies,” she said. “Additionally, I want to raise the visibility of Friends – to help the community and region get to know us and all we have to offer.”

As for the long-term, Muirhead wants to help build a strong network for relationships that will serve students, enhance academic programs and engage alumni.

Dr. Darcy Zabel Having been at Friends University since 1998 and serving for the past three years as associate vice president of Academic Affairs, Dr. Darcy Zabel has seen significant change. Currently serving as interim vice president of Academic Affairs, she’s prepared to help the University through further evolution and transformation.

“Friends University is poised for exciting innovation and powerful change in the next three years. Much of this hinges on what we develop for our students,” Dr. Zabel said. “This includes the research, design, development and administration of new academic programs and significant expansion or revitalization of older programs that are ready to do even more with active, applied learning such as the inclusion of short-term study abroad opportunities into programs, expanded internship offerings, and other exciting applied learning opportunities.”

Dr. Zabel started her journey at Friends University as an assistant professor of English, moving through the faculty ranks to become a fully tenured professor in 2009. Previous University responsibilities include religion and humanities division vice chair; honors program director; and heavy involvement in the general education studies program, freshman seminar program, and general education senior capstone assessment program.

COURTESY PHOTO

she holds here. She has more than 30 years of experience in

MFT Alumnus at Forefront of Strengthening Families George Williams has been appointed to serve as the special assistant to the secretary at the newly named Department for Children and Families, formerly the Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services.

Williams is a 2002 graduate of the Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy program.

George Williams

As the special assistant to the secretary, he is focusing on a family-strengthening initiative, something he is familiar with from his work at the National Center for Fathering.

Williams comes to this position well prepared, crediting his graduate education with providing him the theoretical knowledge that forms the backbone of his programs and the practical experience to be able to effectively facilitate change in his clients’ lives.

Williams’ goal is to provide “evidence-based, researchinformed best-practices for services producing positive outputs and outcomes for child well-being and healthy families.”

Practically speaking, Williams said he is striving for “compassion-driven service delivery” to reach families quickly with effective results or referrals to the appropriate channels.

However, his charge is not without challenges. Today’s difficult economy accelerates family problems driven by decreased incomes. Despite this, Williams has high hopes for the future of the marriage and family therapy field, as state governments continue to invest in the well being of their citizens through similar initiatives.

Dr. Chris Habben has “had the pleasure of following George’s work on fathering, in particular, and families, in general.”

As a professor of marriage and family therapy at Friends University’s Lenexa Education Center, Dr. Habben is confident that Williams will make a sizeable contribution in his new position.

In short, Williams believes that “strong families make a strong Kansas,” and he is excited to help make Kansas stronger.

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

7

news in FOCUS

New Graduate Program Focuses on Cyber Threats

BY HANNAH PAULS, SENIOR How do we keep information safe as technology advances so quickly?

Friends University’s new Master of Information Security and Forensics (MISF) program will train students to protect sensitive information on smartphones, computers, networks and the Internet.

“Everyone is interested in protecting their identity,” said Dr. Jason Ferguson, program director.

Identity theft concerns not only individuals, but companies of all sizes and governments. The MISF program focuses on security standards and best practices that assist with preventing identity theft and other cyber crimes, such as intellectual property theft. The forensics component teaches students to uncover cyber crime details, fix problems and recoup data loss.

Friends University will partner with organizations such as the Kansas Air National Guard, which contributes to the layered cyber security and defense for the Air National Guard. Partnerships also give students hands-on experience and practical training.

“The security field is rapidly growing due to the nature of our information age, and skilled technical professionals are invaluable in protecting that information,” said Kansas Air National Guard Lt. Col. Jason Knobbe, commander of the 177th Information Aggressor Squadron.

To learn more about the MISF graduate program, contact the Graduate School admissions office at 316-295-5300.

8

F riends U niversity

focus

MEDICAL HEROICS EARN TOP HONORS COMPILED BY SARA ORNELAS The heroic actions of a Friends University

of Medicine and is a surgeon and teacher

graduate have earned him top military

at St. Louis University.

honors.

In May, Maj. Erik Nott, G’98, was

Nott said he values his Friends University education, and credits it as

honored with the Heroes of Military

part of his success in medicine and the

Medicine award from the Henry M.

military.

Jackson Foundation – an honor usually

“I’m definitely thankful to Friends

reserved for lifetime achievements for

University, especially Dr. Melody Brownell

the advancement of military medicine.

and Dr. Karyn Turla, who were the

He also was awarded the Purple Heart in

driving force in the pre-med program.

November 2011.

Dr. Brownell ran a very challenging pre-

In May 2011, Nott and his colleagues in

med curriculum. To do well in it required

an elite Air Force medical operations unit

a significant time commitment and

were attacked in Afghanistan. During the

discipline. The discipline to succeed in

attack, Nott was shot in the leg. Although

the pre-med program carried over into

he was wounded, Nott refused to leave

medical school,” Nott said.

his team to seek treatment.

“I didn’t want to leave and disrupt the

Nott’s heroics in Afghanistan went beyond the courage he showed under

team,” Nott said in a Wichita Eagle article.

attack. He also reconstructed the thumb

“The doctors numbed it with Lidocaine,

of a local interpreter and performed

stitched it up, covered it and I kept it

surgery that allowed a patient to keep his

clean. I just kept doing my thing.”

foot from being amputated.

“Major Nott put himself in harm’s way to save the lives of our troops,” said John Lowe, president and CEO of the Henry M.

As for Nott, he is pretty much healed from his wounds.

“I was actually very lucky, I only have a

Jackson Foundation, in a Wichita Eagle

one-inch scar on my lower leg. It was only

article. “He and the other award recipients

a flesh wound, but it was only a millimeter

have shown uncommon valor, devotion

or two from hitting the tibia, which could

to duty and unwavering dedication to

have been very bad,” Nott said. “I’m

helping others.”

fortunate. A lot of other young men and

Nott, a Wichita Northwest High School graduate, joined the Air Force in 1998

women have been hurt far worse.”

Read more about Nott’s amazing

after graduating from Friends University.

journey of heroism in the Wichita Eagle

He attended University of Kansas School

article at frnd.su/erik-nott.

faculty spotlight

Groundbreaking Research Creates Images of Electric Circuits

BY SARA ORNELAS AND KATE BOSSERMAN, M’12 COURTESY PHOTO

How do manufacturers perform quality control on microscopic electric circuits?

Semiconductor devices (e.g. computer processors) rely on these electric circuits and are tested through inherently destructive methods like spreading resistance profiling or laser beam induced current.

Dr. Joseph Myers

Researchers have worked for more than

20 years on better methods of cost-effective quality control.

Friends University’s Dr. Joseph Myers has been instrumental in coming one step closer to creating images that allow scientists and developers to test the circuits without destroying them.

Dr. Myers, assistant professor of science and math, and Dr. Victor Isakov, distinguished professor of mathematics at Wichita State University, co-authored “On the Inverse Doping Profile Problem,” a paper that appeared in the August 2012 Journal of Inverse Problems and Imaging, published by the American Institute of Mathematical Sciences.

X-rays, MRIs and oil exploration are examples of inverse problems because they allow us to “work backward from the effects of something to determine its cause using electromagnetic waves, gravitational potential and physics,” Dr. Myers said.

The paper explains how to create images of the inner workings of semiconductor devices using computer software written by Dr. Myers. The software detects and maps the microscopic electric circuits.

“Inverse problems are one of the most important areas in mathematical analysis,” Dr. Myers said. “Dr. Isakov is one of the world’s experts in the field of inverse problems.”

Using mathematical inverse problem methods, Dr. Myers and Dr. Isakov have made progress on analyzing the electric circuits in a nondestructive manner “by applying mathematical techniques instead of brute force,” said Dr. Myers.

Dr. Myers’ software detects and maps microscopic electric currents in semiconductors.

The art department will expand into two buildings in Wichita’s historic Delano district. The two-story brick building and the adjacent concrete warehouse will house an art gallery, offices, a large lecture hall and studio space.

fine arts

HISTORIC DELANO PROPERTY TO HOUSE ART DEPARTMENT COMPILED BY SARA ORNELAS Friends University is expanding its footprint with a renovation project in Wichita’s Historic Delano District.

“We are happy to announce a $3.5 million project that will include the renovation of a beautiful historic building on West Douglas,” said Dr. T.J. Arant, president of Friends University.

“You can’t build a historic building, but you can save one. Our hope is that we will be able to turn this beautiful building into a destination attracting our students and the community.”

The two-story building at 930 W. Douglas, along with an adjacent warehouse, will accommodate students in the art department, which is experiencing a growing number of students.

“During the past five years, our administrators and board have consistently identified this department as a high priority,” Dr. Arant said. “Our students have continued to endure a cramped space, and we appreciate their patience. We are happy that we have found an exciting solution.”

The Douglas building will include a main floor art gallery, offices and a large lecture hall. The second floor will be devoted to an art studio and instruction area. The building is expected to be open in fall 2013.

The adjacent building will be used primarily for larger ceramic and sculpture projects, as well as storage space. Classes are already underway here.

Rod Pitts, chairman of the Friends University Board of Trustees and division director of consumer banking at INTRUST Bank, said the project fits well with the University’s plans for the future.

“The board and Dr. Arant have set a priority to foster and expand our presence in the community,” Pitts said. “The proximity of Delano to our campus and the opportunity for our art students to be part of the Delano business district makes this a natural fit. We see this as a great opportunity to invest in our students and our surrounding community and build an art program with a strong, regional draw.”

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

9

news in FOCUS

fine arts

Launching Ballet Careers PHOTO BY DR. JOSEPH MYERS

BY HANNAH PAULS, SENIOR

athletics

SIMMONDS SELECTED FOR NATIONAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

BY SCOTT ROBINSON, SPORTS INFORMATION DIRECTOR, AND SARA ORNELAS Friends University men’s basketball player Jacob Simmonds has been selected as one of only 14 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) student athletes nationwide to participate in the 2012-13 Red Cross/NAIA Collegiate Leadership Program.

Senior Andrea Dimmen portrays the Butterfly in Friends University’s spring production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

The Red Cross/NAIA initiative is designed to inspire, motivate and create a new and diverse generation of American

Studying ballet requires intense focus, dedication and athleticism.

Friends University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in ballet is run like a professional

Red Cross volunteers and leaders through exemplifying the NAIA Champions of

ballet company with daily classes, rehearsals and an extensive performance

Character Program’s five core values: in-

schedule, in addition to the requirements of school and work.

tegrity, respect, responsibility, sportsman-

The hard work has paid off for all nine of the 2012 graduating seniors. Some have paying positions with ballet companies, while others are participating in summer intensives and apprenticeships.

“Our program is based upon artistry, hard work and the fact that we’re

ship and leadership.

“The trip was an amazing experience, and I had a great time,” Simmonds said.

“It gave me the chance to meet a lot of

marketable,” said Sharon Rogers, adjunct professor of ballet. This combination

important members of the Red Cross and

allows graduates to find positions even in a difficult economy.

gain invaluable leadership skills.”

The dancers’ strong work ethic and maturity impressed professional

The participants will organize blood

companies. Gretchen Wiswell, who will be joining Ballet Magnificat! at the

drives, participate on a leadership board,

trainee level, said “I don’t think I would have been as blessed to get an offer like

and take part in diversity and cultural com-

that if I had gone somewhere other than Friends.”

petency training. For their efforts, students

Other graduates were offered opportunities with the following companies: Micah Chermak, Cincinnati Ballet; Bethany Cooke, Manassas Ballet; Corinne Di

will receive scholarship support from the Red Cross and State Farm Insurance.

Mola, Manassas Ballet; Andrea Dimmen, Ballet Austin; Anna Kirwan, developing a dance ministry; Kyle Leapline, Dance Theatre of Tennessee; Brandy Menninga, Nashville Ballet; and Sarah Stoffels, Epiphany DanceArts.

“I am very proud of the graduates,” said Stan K. Rogers, associate professor of dance. “It takes really good teachers, but mainly great work ethic from the students. This year was an amazing year of talented dancers that created a synergy of success.”

Friends University enjoys a high caliber of talent thanks in part to the generosity of Carl and Dixie Sebits, who established ballet scholarships so that students could devote more time to developing their talents.

“I’m always looking forward to a new year, new talent and new challenges,” Stan said. “With the support of the University, the Koch Foundation and the Sebits, we will be able to attract great dancers for many years to come.”

10

F riends U niversity

focus

Friends University President Dr. T.J. Arant (left) and CEO of the American Red Cross’s Central Plains Blood Services Region Terri Dunaway (right) thank junior Jacob Simmonds for his efforts in organizing the Sept. 13 blood drive in the Casado Campus Center. The blood drive collected 64 units.

FEATUREstory

athletics

Triple Crown of KCAC Titles

BY SARA ORNELAS Friends University earned its own triple crown in May – clean sweeps of the men’s and women’s Kansas Collegiate

student news

LYNE’S RESEARCH EARNS FIRST AT PSYCHOLOGY CONVENTION

BY SARA ORNELAS

Athletic Conference titles in cross country, indoor track and

Senior Jeremy Lyne won first place for his senior research

field, and outdoor track and field.

paper, “Playing with Emotions: Is There a Correlation Between

Not only did the Falcons accomplish this amazing hat

Depression and Video Game Usage?” in the category of

trick, but they also ended Southwestern College’s 31-year

undergraduate social psychology – empirical at the 2012 Great

winning streak in men’s cross country, and 29-year winning

Plains Students’ Psychology Convention.

streak in men’s outdoor track and field. The Moundbuilder men and women both took second-place finishes.

“It’s been a pretty special year,” said Brad Peterson, Friends University’s 2011-12 track and field coach. “I don’t think anybody outside of our program thought we could pull off what we did. Six of six titles – that’s amazing.”

Peterson said strong leadership is one of his team’s greatest attributes.

When deciding on his subject, Lyne said he discovered little research had been conducted on the topic of video games and depression.

“It was a lot of fun presenting all of my hard work,” Lyne said.

He has been accepted into the Ph.D. program at Fuller University, and plans to complete his manuscript and submit it for publication.

“On the men’s side of things we had some great senior leadership that pulled the strings all year and got things to turn out how we wanted,” he said.

athletics

NGUYEN HITS HOLE-IN-ONE

BY SARA ORNELAS Friends University golfer Andrew Nguyen has achieved a goal many golfers aspire to their entire career – a hole-in-one.

The freshman triumphed March 20 at the South Central Kansas Spring Invitational hosted by Southwestern College at Quail Ridge Golf Course in Winfield, Kan. Nguyen was on the 16th hole and sunk the shot from 183 yards.

Nguyen said it was rainy, and he didn’t have high expectations for the day’s tournament.

“I pulled out my five-iron,” said Nguyen, who’s been golfing since he was 10. “Coach told me to finish strong, and I told him I’d try to finish two under par.”

“I don’t know how rare holes-in-one are,” said Golf Coach Aaron Winter. “I can tell you that it was Andrew’s first holein-one and only the second I’ve seen in the 20-plus years I’ve played golf.”

“Just the luck of the draw, I guess,” Nguyen said.

student news

Class Analyzes Hawker Beechcraft Financials BY hannah pauls, senior Students in the spring corporate financial analysis and reporting class with Dr. Malcolm Harris, professor of finance, received more than a standard textbook experience as they followed the financial difficulties surrounding Hawker Beechcraft Corp.

Students analyzed the company from the ground up, including everything from the philosophy to balance sheets and cash flows. They gradually realized that Hawker Beechcraft needed to either stretch or restructure their debt.

Junior Danny Littler said this hands-on experience encouraged him to “stumble across new financial terms and methodologies individually as I battled to find a solution.”

Dr. Harris was available to guide students and clarify new concepts, but over the course of the semester they began to develop their own methods of problem solving.

Littler appreciated being able to work through the case with relative independence.

“The practical analysis in the Hawker Beechcraft case provided me with assurance in my own analytical abilities and ensured that I am well prepared for future investigations in real-life circumstances,” Littler said.

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

11

Choosing to Teach the Teachers Niles Leads Apple’s Professional Development Team Dr. Rae Niles, M’94, has extensive experience helping teachers understand how technology can impact learning.

And now, as Apple’s national manager for professional development, her team works with teachers and administrators across the globe to support the use of Apple technology in schools.

Dr. Niles addressed graduates at the Wichita Graduate School Hooding and Commencement ceremony May 5, encouraging them to make bold choices, embrace opportunity and change the world.

Years ago, in her small school district north of Wichita, Dr. Niles’ high school students received MacBook laptops as part of a one-on-one initiative. Fellow educators came from miles to observe the technology at work in the classroom. They

Compiled by Kate Bosserman, M’12

were surprised to learn that the initiative’s outcomes were not “really about the technology at all,” said Dr. Niles. “It was about the teaching and learning, and how technology had transformed that.”

The technology “created unexpected opportunities for our students,” she said. It allowed one special-education student, Casey, the chance to choose to use his strengths to learn in the best way he could.

He typed his homework, put on headphones, closed his eyes and listened as the computer read back his work because, as Casey explained, “learning through my eyes is hard.” Technology helped Casey believe in his own success said Dr. Niles.

“With this, I am just as smart as the next kid,” Casey said.

“This is such an amazing time in your life.

“Stay motivated. Don’t settle. The skills

Whether this degree is your dream, or a

you have acquired and develop today will

stop on your way, it is most definitely an

get you the job of your dreams tomorrow

important part of your journey. Know that you are exactly where you are supposed to be, right here, right now.”

— Theresa R. Hubbard, M’06, keynote

speaker at the Lenexa Education Center’s Commencement

Hubbard is a licensed marriage and family therapist in private practice in Kansas and Missouri.

Courtesy Photo

Courtesy Photo

Echoing the Sentiment … I am a prime example.”

— Diana Ramirez, G’03, keynote speaker at the Topeka Education Center’s Commencement

Ramirez is a franchise owner of Express Employment Professionals.

Commencement 2012 37%

13% 8% 11% 67%

23%

40% Graduates by College n College of Business, Arts, Sciences and Education n College of Adult and Professional Studies n Graduate School 12 F riends U niversity

Graduates by Location n Wichita Campus n Topeka Education Center n Lenexa Education Center n Online

focus

Note: Percentages may not equal 100 due to rounding. This infographic reflects candidates for graduation.

95%

n Overall Experience Graduates rated their Friends University experience as good or excellent

n Recommending Friends University

97%

College of Business, Arts, Sciences and Education

98%

College of Adult and Professional Studies

99%

Graduate School

FEATUREstory

Dr. Niles said that never in her wildest dreams would she have believed that choosing to enroll in the Master of Arts in Teaching at Friends 19 years ago would lead to the role she fills now.

“That choice opened doors for me,” she told graduates.

“Your choice to do the same will change you in ways you can’t fully grasp yet.”

She also earned principal and superintendent certification, in addition to a doctorate in educational leadership from Wichita State University.

She spent 22 years in Kansas public education working in Sedgwick Public Schools, first as a middle school teacher and then for 14 years as director of curriculum and technology.

She has worked with the U.S. Department of Education, Boston Public Schools, the McNeil Lehrer Group, Follett Education, the Learning First Alliance and others in her quest to help teachers see how technology can positively influence student achievement.

As for the impact of the choices Casey was allowed to make, Dr. Niles published her research on teacher and student perceptions of the one-to-one initiative, inspiring other educators to help students find learning choices in technology.

“I get to do what I love,” Dr. Niles said.

“If you live in a state of balance, you will be happy and healthy. Develop the skills Courtesy Photo

necessary to be in a state of balance. Be

Dr. Rae Niles addresses the Graduate School at Wichita’s hooding and commencement ceremony May 5 at INTRUST Bank Arena. Dr. Niles was humbled to be asked to return to the place where she began a journey that changed her life.

fully present, attentive and respectful.

Make positive changes in the world. Do not be afraid to fail.”

— Dr. Karyn Turla, keynote speaker at the

Wichita Undergraduate Commencement

Dr. Turla is a professor of biology at Friends University and the 2010 recipient of the W.A. Young Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Sources: 2012 Friends University Commencement Survey and Office of the University Registrar

Comments

n Employed as of Commencement

Congrats to my mighty smart little brother for graduating Magna Cum Laude today!

— Erin DeGroot to Justin Wolfe via Facebook

69%

College of Business, Arts, Sciences and Education

91%

College of Adult and Professional Studies

86%

Graduate School

Wow. College grad.

So proud. Wow. — LaVonna Loesch to son Parker via Facebook

Proud of the men-folk in my family today. Jacob and Lee played some mean soccer, tying two games. They willingly sacrificed the third game to attend their dad’s graduation.

— Lynn Matsler about husband Karl via Facebook I just moved my tassel … now waiting to walk up the stage!

— Esther Hoffman via Twitter

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

Photo by Dr. Joseph Myers

Congratulations to my wife who graduated from Friends University with a master’s in education!

— Josh Heck to Andrea via Twitter Yay me! Thank you to a wonderful, supportive husband!

— Andrea Heck back to Josh via Twitter

FALL 2012

13

Becoming our 21stCentury Self The Inauguration of Friends University’s 13th President, Dr. T.J. Arant

Compiled by Kate Bosserman, M’12

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Teacher, Leader and Visionary Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Dr. Arant is a teacher at heart who brings 30 years of experience in higher education. He was unanimously selected by the Friends University Board of Trustees to become the University’s 13th president and took office July 1, 2011.

He previously served as executive vice president and provost at Mount Olive College in North Carolina. He earned a doctorate in English from Duke University, a master’s in English from the Dr. Philip Kerstetter, president of Mount University of North Carolina, Olive College, helps Dr. T.J. Arant Chapel Hill, and a bachelor’s prepare for the installation ceremony. from Vanderbilt University.

“This is a happy day,” said Dr. John Lewis, Board of Trustees member.” As [Friends University’s] 13th president, Dr. Arant has been entrusted with furthering the mission of the University, sustaining and nurturing an environment of excitement in learning, and demonstrating care for the individual students who choose to make Friends their home.”

Nancy Artaz, administrative assistant in the Registrar’s Office, welcomed Dr. Arant on behalf of Friends University’s staff. She shared that as a presidential candidate, he was candid and did not pretend to have all of the answers. When stopping by the Regis-

14

F riends U niversity

focus

trar’s office to say, ‘Good morning,’ he validated the purpose and importance of staff. When sharing a childhood story, he illustrated a person, who at a young age, took initiative, worked hard, made a commitment, and believed in his end result.

“Those are characteristics of leadership that are not taught, but are realized by experience,” Artaz said.

Dr. Michelle Robertson shared remarks faculty members made during the presidential search, including that Dr. Arant “sees that academics are the core of the institution and that growth in the future must stem from it.” And “he clearly has expertise to lead the development of new academic vision.

“It’s remarkable that now – a year later and eight months into his tenure – those initial impressions ring true,” Dr. Robertson said. “In fact, I find it hard to believe they were not made recently, as they easily could have been.”

Dr. Robertson, associate professor of marriage and family therapy and clinical coordinator, welcomed Dr. Arant on behalf of faculty as the faculty senate president.

“On this special occasion,” Dr. RobFriends University Board of Trustees chair ertson said, “let us Rodney Pitts congratulates newly installed celebrate our extraorpresident Dr. T.J. Arant. dinary community and the possibilities for our future under the competent leadership that Dr. Arant brings.”

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Friends University’s 13th president, Dr. T.J. Arant, was installed at 2 p.m., March 30, in the Garvey Physical Education Center’s gymnasium by Rodney Pitts, chair of the Board of Trustees.

“As you assume the duties as the 13th president of Friends University, we pledge our support to you,” Pitts said. “Under your leadership and with the commitment of faculty, students, staff and alumni, we will work together to fulfill its mission.”

Authentic Resonance “I am honored,” Dr. Arant said, “by the trust the Board has in me and by the spirit of fellowship and collegiality that has en-

FEATUREstory Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

veloped me since I began in July. way, we prepare our students to adapt to change and “I am mindful that I am not here to make a difference.” because of my own worth, but be“These are phrases which would resonate with my cause of the worth and the work of predecessors, from Edmund Stanley to Biff Green. others. It is astonishing to me that it This is the clock tower bell, the resonance on our air. extends to me. I am honored. I am This is what marks the meaning of our hours and humbled. And I will do my best.” our half-hours here: inside the classroom, outside the Drawing from the common vision classroom, integrating the intellectual with the spiriof the University’s presidents before tual and the social, improving the world, adapting to him, Dr. Arant compared the Univerchange, making a difference.”

The Casado Campus Center’s McKay sity’s history to the resonating har“I believe these phrases capture our Quaker heritage Gymnasium was transformed for the mony of the clock tower’s bell. and our Christian context in a way that lifts up our priinauguration reception.

“Our job now is to particularize our mary job as an institution of higher learning, namely mission in such a way that it truly, authentically does two jobs. the cultivation of the life of the mind and the search for truth.”

One, it must authentically describe who we are. At the same The Univertime it must authentically drive who we become. sity’s values “in“In one motion, it must look forward; in the other, it must form what Susan look to the past. And in that simultaneous movement, it creates and I have been the present. That resonance the beneficiaries – that moment that creates of since our arthe present – is precisely, inrival here. It is escapably authentic. It must so pervasive, and be authentically us. it is so complex, Emphasizing the liberal that Susan doesn’t arts tradition, the Christian even have a word intellectual tradition, and for it. She just The University Concert Band played processional and the University’s Quaker does this …” (Dr. recessional music while the Singing Quakers provided heritage, Dr. Arant noted Arant cupped his musical selections during the installation ceremony. that the University’s mission hands.) has always been to produce “This is where this faithful community has kept us since our graduates “whose intellecarrival, enfolding us, keeping us safe. We keep each other and, Samantha Weeks, executive tual lives, spiritual lives, and especially, we keep our students mindful of our values, focused president of the Student on our commitment, attentive to our mission of learning, to Government Association, welcomed social lives are well-developed and integrated. In that truth, to each other.”

Dr. Arant on behalf of students.

Mace

The installation ceremony featured

The mace is the symbol of the legal and

many traditions and symbols.

chartered authority of the people to whom

Friends University’s Chain of Office is a necklace made of antique bronze featuring the University seal and 12 curved banners on the chain – each containing the name of a former University president and his years of service. The chain was bestowed upon

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Chain of Office

Photo by Steve Rasmussen

Traditions and Symbols

the directors have delegated authority (typically the president and vice presidents).

Use of the mace is reserved for occasions of outstanding importance. Friends University’s mace is made of cherry wood with silver trim. The headpiece contains the University seal imprinted on silver surrounded by silver laurel leaves.

Dr. Arant during the ceremony for him to

Learn more about the inauguration of the University’s 13th

wear at all formal academic occasions.

president and see more photos at friends.edu/inauguration.

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

15

U n i v e r s i t y

f o c u s

ARTWORK by HANNAH PRIEBE

F r i e n d s

Friends University

Homecoming Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012 Run with Friends: Prairie Fire Wichita Marathon Fit for LIFExpo • 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 13 • Century II Exhibition Hall

Learn about fitness, sports, nutrition, health, wellness, medical technology and senior living. Participants can also pick up their registration materials.

County Fair

4 to 7 p.m. • Monday, Oct. 15 • Rose Window Plaza

Races • Beginning at 8 a.m.

Sunday, Oct. 14 • downtown Wichita

Come on down to the County Fair! Vie for the country costume blue ribbon. Have fun throwing pies. Enjoy your favorite fair foods with funnel cake, caramel apples and more!

This event is sure to be a great time for everyone!

Run or walk with Friends University alumni, faculty, staff and students in one of Wichita’s most popular marathons. Learn more and register at friends.edu/run.

16

F A L L

2 0 1 2

Falcon Soccer

6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. • Wednesday, Oct. 17 Adair-Austin Stadium Photo by DR. JOSEPH MYERS

Cheer on the women’s and men’s soccer teams as they host the Bethany College Swedes. Game tickets are $7 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens, and free for children 12 years and younger and students with a Friends University ID.

Casado Jazz Night

8 p.m. • Wednesday, Oct. 17 • Casado Campus Center

Falcon Volleyball

Enjoy Friends University’s jazz combos featuring legendary jazz guitarist Jerry Hahn in a relaxed coffee house setting. The free evening is full of food, jazz and fun! Contact the Fine Arts box office for more information at 316-295-5677.

5:30 and 7 p.m. • Thursday, Oct. 18 Garvey P.E. Center

Cheer on the 2011 KCAC semi-finalists as they battle the Bethany College Swedes. Game tickets are $7 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens, and free for children 12 years and younger and students with a Friends University ID.

Cornerstone

7 p.m. • Thursday, Oct. 18 University Friends Church

Courtesy Photo

Great Conversation!

Cornerstone is a weekly gathering hosted by Campus Ministries that involves a variety of activities pointed toward growing in community and as followers of Jesus. Tonight, Cornerstone will gather with students, faculty, staff, alumni and the community at the volleyball game to cheer on the Falcons!

5 p.m. • Thursday, Oct. 18 • Wichita Scottish Rite Courtesy Photo

Connect with community experts at the ultimate dinner party!

This year’s Great Conversation features choices in a plenary session, dinner and guided-topic conversation.

The plenary session “Resource Revolution? FosWes Jackson Jeffrey Ball sil Fuels and the Future of Food and Energy” will be led by Jeffrey Ball, scholarin-residence at Stanford University’s Steyer-Taylor Center for Energy Policy and Finance, and Wes Jackson, founder of The Land Institute.

Stay for dinner then enjoy enlightening and stimulating conversation on a topic of your interest moderated by an expert in the field.

Learn more and register at friends.edu/great-conversation or contact Nancy Hinten for ticket information at 316-295-5820.

Student Council, Government & Leadership Reunion

Rayng.COm

17

6 p.m. • Friday, Oct. 19 • Casado Campus Center Student government, student council and student leadership alumni are invited to a meet-andgreet mixer with current Student Government Association leadership.

Tour Casado Campus Center renovations, attend “Curtains” or the Falcon soccer and volleyball games, and make an appearance at the dance. Reconnect Saturday afternoon while watching the parade before heading to the Block Party and football game. For more information, contact Gary Rapp at 316-295-5838 or rappg@friends.edu.

F r i e n d s

U n i v e r s i t y

f o c u s

‘Curtains’

20% Off

7:30 p.m. • Friday, Oct. 19 and Saturday, Oct. 20 2 p.m. • Sunday, Oct. 21 • Sebits Auditorium

Clothing and Friends University Spirit Items!

Boston’s Colonial Theatre is host to the opening night performance of a new musical set in Kansas. When the supremely untalented leading lady mysteriously dies on stage, the entire cast and crew are suspects. Lt. Frank Cioffi, detective and musical theatre fan, plans on solving the crime, saving the show and maybe even finding love.

This family-friendly, very funny musical is directed by Kurt Priebe, assistant professor of drama and media, with musical direction by Rolaine Hetherington, assistant professor of music/applied voice.

Tickets are $16 for adults and $13 for students and senior citizens. Reserve your tickets with the Fine Arts box office at 316-295-5677 or order online at friends.edu/finearts.

Saturday, Oct. 20, 2012

re during Visit the Friends University Booksto in the lower special hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. visit the level of the Casado Campus Center or y.

Part k Bloc the Bookstore booth during . only 2, Valid Saturday, Oct. 20, 201 Must present coupon. or software.

Discount does not apply to textbooks

Falcon Soccer

Coloring Contest

6 p.m. and at 8:30 p.m. • Friday, Oct. 19 Adair-Austin Stadium Cheer on the women’s and men’s soccer teams as they challenge the Bethel College Threshers. Game tickets are $7 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens, and free for children 12 years and younger and students with a Friends University ID.

Color Freddy for a chance to win a Crayola® Color Wonder Sound Studio! A coloring table will be available at the Block Party. Two Crayola® Color Wonder Sound Studios will be awarded, one each for 0- to 5-year-olds and 6- to 10-year-olds.

Homecoming Dance 9 p.m. • Friday, Oct. 19 • Old Cowtown

Have a boot-scootin’ good time out at Old Cowtown! Grab a partner or round up your friends to enjoy an evening of music and fun! The royalty court will be recognized during the party.

25th and 50th Class Reunions

10 a.m. • Saturday, Oct. 20 Davis Administration Building The classes of 1962 and ’87 are invited to reunite, reconnect and relive memories of their college days. Checkin begins at 10 a.m. on the first floor of the Davis Administration Building. Enjoy snacks while reminiscing with classmates. Your class photo will be taken, and campus tours will be offered.

Falcon Volleyball

7 p.m. • Friday, Oct. 19 • Garvey P.E. Center Cheer on the 2011 KCAC semi-finalists as they face the Ottawa University Braves. Game tickets are $7 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens, and free for children 12 years and younger and students with a Friends University ID.

18

F A L L

2 0 1 2

Block Party & Carnival

Model U.N. Reunion

1:30 p.m. • Saturday, Oct. 20 • Garvey Practice Field Satisfy your post-parade hunger with free hamburgers and hot dogs at the Block Party.

Sit under the big tent or bring your blanket and enjoy lunch on the lawn. Also included in the Block Party festivities are the free carnival, face painting, Freddy tattoos and coloring contest (see page 18). The Photo by DR. JOSEPH MYERS Friends University Jazz Band will be performing. Stop by the Alumni Association hospitality tent to sign up for door prizes.

Winners will be announced at halftime of the football game.

10 A.m. • SATURday, Oct. 20 Davis Administration Building

Alumni of the Model U.N. program are invited to a gathering of alumni, current students and former faculty. Reminisce about the countries you represented, share your experiences and prepare students for next year’s Midwest Model U.N. For more information, contact Dr. Russell Arben Fox at 316-2955827 or foxr@friends.edu.

Parade

1 p.m. • Saturday, Oct. 20 University Avenue and Hiram Street To cap off a week of Home Sweet Homecoming themed student activities, parade floats will proceed down University Avenue from Fern Street to Hiram Street, then along Kellogg Drive to the Garvey Practice Field. Enjoy the colorful spectacle with the parade announcer and judges at University and Hiram, where students will compete for the judges’ ribbon during this Homecoming tradition.

National Anthem Performance

Before football game • Saturday, Oct. 20 Adair-Austin Stadium All choral alumni (Singing Quakers, Concert Choir, etc.) are invited to sing the national anthem before the Homecoming football game. Join the 30-minute rehearsal at 12:30 p.m. in the Riney Fine Arts Center, room C-6. For more information or to sign up, contact Concert Choir Director Rolaine Hetherington at 316-655-2261 or email hetherington@friends.edu.

Falcon Football

3 p.m. • Saturday, Oct. 20 • Adair-Austin Stadium Cheer on the Falcons as they Photo by DR. JOSEPH MYERS face the Bethany College Swedes. The first 100 fans through the gate will receive a free spirit gift courtesy of the Alumni Association. Stop by the Alumni Association hospitality tent to sign up for door prizes. Winners will be announced at halftime of the football game. The crowning of Homecoming royalty will also be at halftime. Game tickets are $7 for adults, $2 for students and senior citizens, free for children 12 and younger and students with a Friends University ID.

Participate in the Parade!

Make special memories at Friends University in this year’s Homecoming parade! Floats, motorcycles, classic car drivers and more are welcome. Or volunteer your truck and trailer for a student float. All participants will receive a Homecoming T-shirt to wear in the parade. For more information or to sign up, please contact the Alumni Office at 316-295-5900.

Singing Quakers Heritage Sunday 10 A.M. • Sunday, Oct. 21 University Friends Church

Join the University Friends Church congregation and the Singing Quakers in worship and fellowship. The church service will include a sermon by Dr. Cliff Loesch and open worship time.

19

COLLEGE news Registrar’s Office Offers More Student Services Online

BY SARA ORNELAS The staff in the Friends University Registrar’s Office could be feeling a bit lonely lately.

With online registration, grades and scheduling available from the comfort of their laptops, students have fewer reasons to visit the Registrar’s Office.

Flash back six years ago, and it was a different story. Each and every Friends University student was required to battle a mass of fellow Falcons each semester for a place in line for the then-manual process of registration.

Today, many of the registrar’s services are available online, allowing students a level of flexibility and convenience that appeals to today’s web-savvy learners.

“Students were asking for online services before we had any really meaty ones,” said Heidi Hoskinson, associate vice president of Academic Affairs. “They were ready to use them and have embraced them positively. We have also been very

OFFICE OF THE UNIVERSITY REGISTRAR Nancy Artaz Laura Garcia

Heidi Hoskinson

DeeAnn Moss Aubrey Rogers Darla Snyder

Denise Staley

Linda Stratton Mary Witthar

Administrative Assistant - Registrar Records Coordinator - Education Workshops Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs; University Registrar Records Coordinator - Degree Audit Records Analyst Assistant Registrar - College of Adult and Professional Studies Assistant Registrar - College of Business, Arts, Sciences and Education Records Coordinator - Transfer Credits Records Clerk - Registrar

intentional about helping students who would prefer not to use online services by making sure our on-ground services are just as available, and probably even more so.”

Not only can students take advantage of the registrar’s

“Our extensive use of electronic documents and the reporting tool has helped make more information available to faculty and staff than ever before. Learning a new system

online services, but faculty and staff have been using a

has been a challenge for some people, so we have continued

student management system called Banner since 2007.

to offer various training opportunities and help as staff learn

Banner allows 24/7 access for online grading and automation

and use the tools,” Hoskinson said.

of course extension processing.

There are still a few non-automated processes that

PHOTO BY KENDALL ENS, SENIOR

require human interaction, such as official transcript service, enrollment verification, veteran’s assistance, athletic eligibility certification, and filing an intent to graduate.

Also, the automated registration system is currently only available to traditional undergraduates. Non-traditional or adult students still need to visit the Registrar’s Office for registration.

Not only do students benefit from the convenience of automation, but the University as a whole benefits, too.

“Overall, we are more efficient,” Hoskinson said. “That saves monetary resources and could save on staffing resources in the future. It also saves trees because we use less paper and other materials. Access to information is instant. Students can register and advisors and others can see it right away, instead of waiting for paperwork to be processed by a human being. Online services also expand service hours to 24/7/365 for the most part on many things

The Registrar’s Office staff: (front row) Linda Stratton, Heidi Hoskinson, Mary Witthar and Laura Garcia; (back row) Aubrey Rogers, Darla Snyder, Nancy Artaz, DeeAnn Moss and Denise Staley.

20 F riends U niversity

focus

so that helps the University as well.”

CLASS notes memorials An increasing number of people memorialize or honor friends and loved ones with contributions to Friends University. Families of those memorialized or honored receive an appropriate notice of the contribution, and the names of the donors are listed here.

The following contributions were received between Sept. 1, 2011, and April 1, 2012.

Contributions received after April 1 will be included in the next issue.

Carl and Dixie Sebits Jazz/Ballet Endowed Scholarship in memory of Dixie Sebits Allen Gibbs and Houlik LC Association of Petroleum Women Bever Dye Foundation David and Bella Branine Bruce W. Buehler Steve M. Dillard Ed and Nancy Graf Philip B. Hartley John and Ulene Havens Wendell and Marita Hill Jeri G. Hinkle Irene L. Holley INTRUST Bank N.A. Kansas Independent Oil and Gas Association Ninnescah Chapter 423 Order of Eastern Star Ruth Carlson Pearson James R. Perkins Stephanie L. Reif W.S. and Carol Ross Lynn and Daphene Scott Richard D. Smith Don B. Stahr William and Paula Stephens Allen and Rosanne Woolf Hervey and Marilyn Wright Fine Arts Department in memory of Daniel Gilliam Marla Booher Larry and Carolyn Breidenstein David and Cris Brownlee Steve and JoAnn Chance Marilyn Coats Kim and Nancy Corwin Credentialing Network Group Kevin, Michelle and Daniel Cronkleton Larry and Marilyn Davis Timothy and Stephanie Goscha James Krehbiel

Nancy LaFond Cindy Lees Floyd and Moretha Lyman Donna Van Nordstrand Jimmie and Tiena Parsons Shirley Robinson Emil and Cheryl Savaiano Elizabeth Schmidt Dixie Schoepf Southwestern College of Professional Studies Center Summit Medical Management LLC Elma and Lynn Thompson Omar and Mandy Wespe Dr. David Weber Endowed Vocal Music Scholarship in memory of Dr. David Weber Eldon and Terry Alexander AT&T Kansas Joseph and Laura Bergquist Dr. Kathryn M. Boyle Matthew and Amy Bretz Dr. Bob and Bunny Broeckelman Doug and Pamela Chambers Dr. Thomas and Janie Cook Steve and Karen Copeland David and Debbie Depew Vivian Fleming Jack and Kathryn Flesher Dale T. Ganz Robert and Rosalie Goebel Ed and Nancy Graf Greg and Cindy Greenwood Janet Grieve Helen Griffin Chuck and Jan Hadley Mary Hannemann Patricia Hannemann Jean Hite Lisa Hittle Jennifer Johnson Melville and Patricia Johnson Donald and Marilyn Killian Vern and Alice Klassen

Larry H. Lamb Richard and Anna Lamb Russell and Wendy Lee Steve and Sue Livengood Nancie Lymer Nancy J. Maultsby Virginia McCoskey Kenneth and Belinda Malnar Ruth Martinez David and Beth McDonald Eric and Susan Metz James and Ann Marie Miller Dwight and Kay Patton David and Kathy Pauls Reginald L. Pittman Donald and Harriett Ratzlaff Dr. Cecil and Verna Riney Kristin S. Rinne Rotary Club of West Wichita John Sherwood Mike and June Shockley Charles and Donna Smith Linda Cox Stephenson Southwestern Remodeling Contractors Arden and Carol Strole Dr. John and Holly Taylor Joan Tregellas Amy Underwood Martha Underwood James and Faith Wenger Max C. and Dr. Isabel Rankin Memorial Scholarship in memory of Max Rankin Bever Dye Foundation John Brooks Dean and Betty Gamble Maxine Haller Burdine Memorial Scholarship Fund in memory of Vernon “Cliff� Burdine Earnest Alexander Joan Dodds Dick and Nell Endsley Fraternal Order of Eagles Chisholm Trail Aerie #3251 Glenda Frye Mary Held Lois Held William and Doris Hus B. Eileen Jahnke Robert and Patricia Johnson FALL 2012

21

CLASSnotes

special friend

Betty M. Buerki, FS’48, died March 26, 2012.

DR. SHERYL RINEY Dr. Sheryl (Conde) Riney, G’88/M’89, died March 3, 2012, at the age of 52. She served at Friends University for 20 years in the admissions and student affairs areas, including serving as director of admissions and vice president of student affairs.

Dr. Riney was a graduate of Wichita Heights High School and earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Friends University. She also earned a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University.

Following her professional time at the University, she worked as an administrator at the Wichita Independent School, a faculty member at Southwestern College, and a leadership consultant at Wichita State University.

Dr. Riney served as the leadership clerk for Northridge Friends Church, where she was also a member.

She is survived by husband Doug, a son, her mother, a sister, a brother, a nephew and two great-nieces.

Lawrence and Joan Kanngiesser Vera and Thomas Kennedy Linda Kliewer Gilbert and Carrie Mayes James and Terri Means Jerry and Pat Ridder Pam Seavey Serita Theis Ronald and Jana Teel Albert and Mary Trissal Darleen Veelt

Allan Arnold Ahlman, G’91, died Nov. 19, 2011. He was a science teacher, physical therapist, economist, woodworker, fisherman and handyman. He was board certified in EMG/NCV testing and provided services at local hospitals and for local neurologists. He also provided home health services for Care South. He is survived by wife Marti, five daughters, one son and four grandchildren.

Friends Annual Fund in Memory of Sheryl Riney Joseph and Laura Bergquist

Lucille E. (Funk) Allen, G’58, died Jan. 22, 2012. She began her teaching career in a one-room country school, serving in several Kansas schools over the years. She is survived by one son, one daughter, three brothers, seven grandchildren, nine greatgrandchildren, four great-greatgrandchildren and many nephews and nieces.

Friends Annual Fund in memory of Dr. Maxwell Cubbage Dr. Diana Cubbage Robert and Karen Erwin Darryl and Patsy Kutz Donald and Brenda Moore

in memory “In Memory” passages with more details were submitted by family or friends.

Information received after April 1 will be included in the next issue. We reserve the right to edit as space allows.

22 F riends U niversity

focus

Blaine Matthew Billinger, FS’02, died Sept. 17, 2011.

Zella (Alkire) Boyle, G’41, died Sept.

3, 2011.

Gary D. Branson, FS’55, died Sept. 24, 2011.

Robert G. Clark, G’68, died Nov. 22, 2011.

Dr. Maxwell E. Cubbage, G’71, died March 19, 2012. He worked as a psychologist for La Crosse County, Wis., from 1992-2011. He is survived by three children and their mother, and one brother.

D. Maxine (Alley) Davis, G’34, died Oct. 16, 2011, at the age of 101 and 10 months. She is survived by one daughter and one son.

Ethel J. (Moore) Dennis, G’62, died July 12, 2011.

Daniel Craig Gilliam, G’07, died Sept. 25, 2011.

Fleeta Belle (Clewell) Gish, G’43, died Dec. 14, 2011. She is survived by one daughter, one granddaughter and one grandson.

Linda (Dirks) Grafton, G’72, died Aug. 20, 2011. She was an elementary school teacher for 32 years. After her teaching career, she became the owner of and professional chef at The Palette Bistro in the Delano District in Wichita. She is survived by husband Les, one daughter, one son, one brother, one sister, and a large extended family.

Oma J. Hearlson, G’56, died July 7, 2011.

Ruth Ann (Moon) Horner, FS’48, died Jan. 17, 2012.

Mary “Mac” Alice (Clark) Houston, G’43, died Jan. 6, 2012.

Dr. Charles N. Johnson, Jr., G’38, died Sept. 20, 2011. He was a retired government physicist and church and community leader. He is survived by two daughters, one brother, one son-in-law, two grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and one greatgreat-grandchild.

Brian Charles Klusener, G’06, died Dec. 15, 2011.

Jack Bennett Martin, G’59, died Feb. 27, 2012.

Mary Joy McMullen, G’42, died Sept. 22, 2011.

Patricia Ann (Chase) Koon, G’58, died Dec. 14, 2011. She was a retired elementary school teacher for Wichita Public Schools, serving for many years at Kensler Elementary School. She is survived by husband William, one son and two granddaughters.

Glenn Ola Martinson, G’31, died May 1, 2012.

Rev. Wayne E. Newlin, G’50, died Oct. 20, 2011. He is survived by wife Rev. Mary, two sons, two daughters, four sisters, 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Todd Peder Larson, G’02, died Feb. 2, 2012.

Dr. Wesley Vern Lauterbach, G’51, died Oct. 31, 2011. He was the principal of Lincoln Southeast High School for 29 years, one of the longest tenures of high school principals in the Lincoln Public Schools. He is survived by wife Shirley, one son, two daughters, two sisters, one brother, eight grandchildren, one greatgrandson and nieces and nephews.

Richard McCoy Masoner, G’90, died Sept. 20, 2011.

Thomas M. McCaul Jr., G’41, died Dec. 12, 2011.

Charlene (Brandt) McKinzey, G’73, died Oct. 25, 2010. She was a teacher for more than 33 years, most recently at Wester Middle School in Mansfield, Texas. She served in various staff and volunteer positions at First United Methodist Church Mansfield, taught swimming and taught at an auctioneering school. She is survived by husband Kyle, two children, one brother, one sister and a host of extended family members.

special friend

REX THOMPSON Former Friends University Board of Trustee member Rex Thompson died Feb. 15, 2012, at the age of 78. Rex dedicated his life to farming, faith and family.

Earning his degree from Kansas State University in agronomy in 1955, Thompson always loved the farm. He began his farming career southwest of Beloit, Kan. It was there that Rex and his wife, Joyce, lived and farmed together for nearly 50 years. In 1988, Rex and Joyce were honored with the Mitchell County Bankers Soil Conservation Award for their efforts to improve their ground.

Thompson was a member of Glen Elder Friends Church, serving as the clerk at the monthly meetings and on several church committees. He also served as clerk for the Mid-America Yearly Meeting and as president of the Stewards Board.

Thompson was a valued member of the Friends University Board of Trustees, serving from 1986 to ’96.

He was active in community activities, including the Farm Bureau Board, Mitchell County Extension Board, Rural Water District Board, Township Trustee, and an adult leader of the West Beloit 4-H Club.

Rex is survived by wife Joyce; children Dawn Roach, Thayne Thompson and Shelly Fransen; and nine grandchildren.

Eva Anna Nixon, G’61, died Feb. 28, 2012.

Celia “Janet” (Owen) Nordling, G’89, died March 5, 2012. She is survived by one son, two daughters, one brother, one sister, seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Patricia A. (Beckett) Ott, G’54, died Feb. 23, 2012.

Veda J. (Arndt) Parnell, G’55, died July 16, 2011. She was a retired First National Bank senior payroll clerk.

She is survived by husband Eli, one daughter, three sons, her mother, four siblings, 18 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren.

Diana Denis (Coleman) Rhoades, G’00, died Sept. 12, 2011.

Doran D. Rhoads, G’49, died March 20, 2012.

John Meece Ringler, G’61, died March 31, 2012.

Sharon B. Rose, G’69, died Aug. 31, 2010. She is survived by three children, her mother, two brothers and one sister-in-law.

Patrick Schartz, G’91, died Dec. 20, 2011. He is survived by wife Kathleen, one daughter, one son, one sister, one brother and four grandchildren.

Leo Schinstock, G’91, died Nov. 4, 2011, from complications of Leukemia.

Annika Christine (Carlgren) Stanton, G’08, died Oct. 13, 2011. She was a retired assistant controller. She is survived by her mother, two daughters, three sons, two siblings and eight grandchildren.

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

23

CLASSnotes

Richard Norman Sutton, G’42, died Sept. 19, 2011.

Matt A. Taylor, G’99, died Oct. 25, 2011. He was a Marine. He is survived by wife Natalie, one son, one daughter, his mother-in-law and father-inlaw, four brothers, three sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Star Little, G’11, and Daniel White, G’12, were married March 24, 2012.

She is an advocate coordinator for Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Sedgwick County. They reside in Wichita, Kan.

baby falcons

Alma Louise (Thornburgh) Van Skinner, G’62, died Sept. 23, 2011.

She retired from Wesley Medical Center after 30 years as a dietetic assistant. She is survived by three daughters, one son, one brother, one sister, 13 grandchildren and 25 greatgrandchildren.

To Michelle (Gaulding) Bloyd, G’98, and husband David, twin baby boys, Porter and Carson, born Nov. 1 and 2, 2011. They were welcomed home by big brother Benjamin.

Barbara L. (McDonald) Walters, FS’54, died Feb. 2, 2011. She was a retired IRS taxpayer advocate. She is survived by husband Norman, two sons, two brothers, two sisters, nine grandchildren and one greatgranddaughter.

To Amber (Harper) Harshbarger, G’04, and husband Kary, FS’07, a baby boy, Peregrin “Pippin” Lee, born Oct. 16, 2011. He was welcomed home by big sisters Lúthien and Tinúviel.

Melba Anna Louise (Howard) Waugh, FS’40, died Feb. 8, 2012.

Mary Ruth “Cookie” (Voth) Wiebe, M’01, died Oct. 31, 2011.

marriages Nicholas Bennington, M’00, and Rose Alcorn were married in 2011.

He is the president of and a research engineer at Grail Engine Technologies.

They reside in Wichita, Kan. Kimberly Dugger, G’91, and Paul Attwater III were married Sept. 24, 2011.

Stacey Hodges, M’06, and Young Seo were married Dec. 10, 2011.

She is a forensic services clinician at the Johnson County Mental Health Center. They reside in Prairie Village, Kan.

24 F riends U niversity

focus

To Randy Gregorcyk, G’95, and wife Kara, an adopted baby girl, Emsley Dean, born Nov. 30, 2011.

To Krista (Baker) Hutton, G’06, and husband Brian, a baby boy, Parker Josiah, born Aug. 24, 2011. He was welcomed home by older siblings Elijah and Kamdyn.

To Ellie (Wright) Moser, G’08, and husband Justin, G’11, a baby boy, Micah Shade, born Nov. 30, 2011.

To Joanna (June) Neises, G’06, and husband Jeff, a baby girl, Emily Kathleen, born April 24, 2011.

To Creighton Snellenberg, G’99, and wife Crystal, a baby girl, Cora Violet, born Sept. 28, 2011. She was welcomed home by big brother Jonah and big sister Saray.

To Courtney (VanSant) Wilson, G’05/M’10, and husband Eric, a baby boy, Jack Eric, born Sept. 27, 2011.

class notes

1930s

Phyllis Marie (Stanton) Row Byers, FS’37, was the subject of the 2011 novel “Phyllis Marie,” based on the true story of her experiences with her husband, who named his WWII B-17 airplane after her.

1940s

John F. Scott, husband of Doris (Stogsdill) Scott, G’47, died Oct. 2, 2011. Their 63rd wedding anniversary would have been Nov. 28, 2011.

1950s

Wilma (Jean) German G’54, welcomed a great-grandson, Gunner Emerson, born Feb. 7, 2011.

George Gish Jr., FS’57, has served as vice moderator of the National Christian Council in Japan for the past three years. This opportunity arose through his service as a United Methodist mission volunteer in Japan.

He works in the fields of education, communications, community and church work, along with continuing research on and teaching ethnomusicology and cultural history.

The Oct. 23, 2011, rededication of the refurbished Reuter organ at Nichols Hills United Church in Oklahoma City was renamed the Antone Godding Organ in honor of Dr. Antone Godding Jr., G’59, and his 36 years of service there.

Karen Stanton, wife of David Stanton, G’54, died July 23, 2011. She taught elementary music in New York and Kansas, taught private piano and organ for more than 20 years, and played organ in many churches in Western Kansas.

We Want You! Share your accomplishments with your classmates and friends. Submit birth and marriage announcements, job changes or promotions. In addition, please keep us informed of address changes or corrections by using this form, or e-mail: alumni@friends.edu.

State

Zip

Linda (Brown) Smith, G’67, retired in November 2010 from the Cerner Corporation. She now enjoys volunteer work and visiting family and friends.

Noel Zahn, G’68, is an industrial arts teacher at Circle High School in Towanda, Kan.

Name

Class Year

Address

City

Home Telephone

Work Phone

E-mail

Fax

Place of Employment

Occupation

Is your spouse an alumnus/alumna? Year

Spouse’s Employer

Job Title Spouse’s Name

Spouse’s Business Title Children’s Names & Dates of Birth News

❏ Please send me more information on Alumni Association volunteer opportunities.

Institutional Advancement Office | Friends University 2100 W. University Ave. | Wichita, KS 67213 | friends.edu

Norma (Boyd) Thayer, G’53, and husband Robert, former music faculty member, have spent the past decade at four colleges, where he has served as an interim music unit administrator.

They began retirement in Ohio in July.

Lyle Wheeler, G’51, and Janet Wheeler, G’51, live in the Friendsview Retirement Community in Oregon.

Lyle spends his time connecting with people electronically, cooking and gardening. Janet uses her home economics skills doing alterations, cooking and keeping house. Both are active members of the Gideons.

Dr. Kent Roberts, G’67, retired Oct. 31, 2011, as director of chaplain services at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital in Washington state after 36 years of service. He now serves as chaplain to the Yakima Police Department.

1960s

Robert Eyres, G’60, moved back to Wichita in September 2010 after being away for 49 years. One grandson, Joshua Luton, graduated from Friends University in 2009. Another grandson, Ben Luton, is currently studying at Friends University.

Carolyn (Wiebe) Gilmore, FS’60, published her book, “Nourishing Your Newborn: A Commonsense Guide for Those First Few Days.” She is a retired registered nurse.

Gerald Neece, G’60, returned to teaching as a foster grandparent.

1970s

Jacquelyn (Webb) Darbyshire, G’76, teaches vocal music at Pawcatuck Middle School in Connecticut.

Jonathan Folber, G’70, completed his 17th triathlon. He has participated in triathlons in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma.

Gayle (Millspaugh-Schaak) Grace, G’74, received her master’s in vocal pedagogy from Regis University in Denver in May 2012. She is also writing a textbook on singing.

Richard Granger, G’74, was on the Wellington, Kan., city council in 2010.

June (Prather) Johnson, G’71/M’95, retired from Derby High School in Kansas in May 2011. She has been teaching for the West Wichita Homeschool Coop and enjoying her grandchildren.

Richard Roller, G’74, is the director of community and provider collaboration for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City. He is a former adjunct professor of music and directed the Friends University Community Orchestra from 2008 to ’10.

Robert Shepler, G’76, opened an insurance general agency in June 2009, working with small and large group health insurance.

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

25

CLASSnotes

Pamela (Johnson) Taverner, G’71, is the chair for the Annual Report and Preconditions Audit Committee within the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education, treasurer of the Heartland Retired Educators, newsletter editor of The Apple Corps and president of Kansas National Education Association – Retired.

1980s

Diane Ferrel, G’81, and husband Dennis became first-time grandparents in 2011 when they welcomed a baby grandson. They own and operate ESI Insurance in Cherokee, Okla., with their son-inlaw. She is also a real estate broker.

Elizabeth (Johnson) Fitch, G’83, and husband David, adopted sisters from Ethiopia in December: 8-year-old Jerusalem Kathryn and 6-year-old Bethlehem Rebecca.

Rick Hayes, G’80, coached football for 25 years.

Linda (Bowlin) Kizzire, G’80/M’03, became the treasurer for Sedgwick County in January 2011. She is involved in the Kansas County Treasurer’s Association, the National Association of County Collectors, Treasurers and Finance Officers, and the Mid American Credit Union Board of Credit Committee.

1990s

Dixie (Voss) Anders, G’98, was awarded a doctor of ministry degree in May 2011 from Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minn. Her thesis was titled “Gathered and Sent: Biblical Preaching Toward an Apostolic Identity.”

Preferred Family Healthcare, Inc. has acquired King’s Treatment Center that was co-founded by Heath Bechler, M’98.

Since 2002, the center has touched the lives of more than 10,000 people, emphasizing a Christian approach.

26 F riends U niversity

focus

James Bradley, M’95, welcomed a new grandson, Dean Russell, born Aug. 18, 2011.

Nancy (Womeldorff) Calkins, G’91, is writing her autobiography for her children. She works part-time at the City of Mission Community Center and loves being retired.

Carmen (Garcia) Conejo, G’98, has been retired five years. She keeps busy with her four grandchildren, traveling with her husband, reading and spending time with friends.

Michael A. Darbyshire, M’92, is the environmental health and safety/facilities manager for Eaton Corporation in Rhode Island.

Kirk Emerine, G’93, was named the 2011 Oklahoma 5A East All-State Boys Soccer Coach of the Year. He was also named the 2011 Oklahoma 5A District 4 Girls Soccer Coach of the Year.

Jill (Whistler) Laffoon, G’99, received professional public relations accreditation (APR) from the Universal Accreditation Board. She is the director of marketing for the Kansas Masonic Home.

Stephanie London, FS’98, launched the national Stephanie London Foundation to advocate, raise public awareness and fundraise for organizations rescuing and rehabilitating women and children from the sex trafficking industry.

Kevin Mokhtarian, G’95, received his master’s in adult and continuing education from Kansas State University and is pursuing his Ph.D. from the same school.

William Needy, G’92, is the manager of the quality assurance function for Superior Industries in Fayetteville, Ark.

Kimberly (Ostgren) Norwood, G’98, opened Stepping Stones Counseling Center in July 2011 in Hutchinson, Kan. She provides therapy for individuals, couples and families.

Harry Ozbun, M’96, retired from Boeing after 26 years.

James Porter, G’91/M’93, is the editor of the Wichita/Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association Inner Watch newsletter.

Angela (Hansen) Reimer, G’93, and husband Dr. Arlo Reimer, G’93, have integrated three nephews into their family following a serious car accident. The Reimers also have two sons, and Angela says the family is adjusting.

Brad Remington, G’93/M’98, was named hospital administrator for the Countryside Pet Clinic in Andover, Kan. U.S. Air Force Capt. Derrick Saraceni, FS’96, was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal after completing a six-month deployment in Iraq with a Special Operations Task Force.

He coordinated more than 1,000 Close Air Support and Helicopter Assault Force missions. He was recently selected to be the executive officer to the commander for the 613th Air and Space Operations Center.

Ginger Sommers, G’98, started the master’s in health and human services program at the University of Oklahoma in January 2011.

“Will Swords Rise Up,” a poem by Jennifer Sparlin, G’93, was published in issue 11 of Heroic Fantasy Quarterly.

Lewis P. Waggaman, husband of Deanna Waggaman, G’90, died Feb. 1, 2012. He was a retired Air Force clinical social worker. He is also survived by one daughter, two sons, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Carlene (Phillips) Whitney, G’95, retired in April 2011 from the Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society after nearly 38 years. She is enjoying retirement and traveling.

2000s

Travis Booe, M’08, is the program director of the Hutchinson Community College Physical Therapist Assistant Program. He guided the program in attaining full accreditation, and the first class of physical therapist assistants graduated in April 2011.

Mary Duncan, M’09, was appointed by the secretary of state to serve as the chairwoman of the coordinating council on Early Childhood Developmental Services. She is on the program and exhibit committees of the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center, the MOPS International Advisory committee and teaches science methods courses at Washburn University.

Mary (Farr) Ellerman, G’07, received her bachelor of science in justice studies from Fort Hays State University in 2011.

T. Kim Goodnight, G’09, has joined ITC’s local government and community affairs department as area manager for Kansas and Oklahoma.

Jodie Hearlson, G’07, received her master’s in biology with an emphasis in environmental biology from Emporia State University.

Alissa (Runnells) Kindall, G’00, and husband Luke, FS’00, opened a second location of Sit Means Sit Dog Training and are expanding both locations (in Ft. Worth, Texas, and Parker, Colo.). Their dog, Abby, was featured on an Intuit commercial for a new credit card processor.

Joanna (June) Neises, G’06, founded Nicely Done, LLC, a housecleaning, organizing and interior painting service.

Melvin Pugh, G’04/G’06, published a book, “Roman Rule: The Eternal Empire.”

2010s

Katie Henderson, G’10, is completing her master’s in clinical mental health counseling at the University of North Texas. She also works at the university in the Office of Disability Accommodations.

Travis Hettenbach, G’97, opened LED Source, a company that supplies LED lighting products. This is the company’s second Kansas location, and services all of Sedgwick County.

James Howell, G’08, was elected to the Kansas House of Representatives from District 92 in November 2010.

Justin Moser, G’11, is attending the McAfee School of Theology in Atlanta, Ga. Crystal Pilcher, M’10, is obtaining her ESL endorsement and looking at doctoral programs.

Brianna Williams, G’11, opened A Brianna Leigh Salon, a Paul Mitchell salon, in Wichita.

faculty/staff notes Glenna Andrews, Graduate School administrative assistant, completed training in the fall of 2011 to become a Kansas Certified Gambling Counselor. She is working to obtain licensure as a Certified Addictions Counselor.

She is an active member of the Wichita Area Problem Gambling Task Force and has facilitated training, education workshops, and presentations for the “Problem Gambling, the Urgent Challenge” program.

Dr. Mark Bartel, director of choral music and associate professor of music, was the guest conductor for Wichita’s All-City Middle School Honor Choir in February. He

conducted the Kansas premiere of Chinese-American composer Zhou Long’s “Words of the Sun” with the Wichita Chamber Chorale in March.

In April, Dr. Bartel served as a state festival judge for the Kansas State High Schools Activities Association.

Kathy Delker, assistant library director, presented “Repurposing Library Space: Friends University’s Experience” at the 2012 Kansas Library Association Annual Conference in April.

Lee Ann Dreiling, administrative assistant in education, retired in January after 19 years at Friends University.

Dr. Gretchen Eick, professor of history, was interviewed for C-SPAN’s Book TV program on her book, “Dissent in Wichita: The Civil Rights Movement in the Midwest, 1954-72,” which aired in June. She was also interviewed for a CBS.com article about Wichita’s role in the civil rights movement. She and husband Michael traveled in June as part of a delegation to Turkey for an intensive study trip.

Jeri Fisk, administrative assistant in Natural Science and Mathematics retired in May after 27 years at Friends University.

The American Society for Quality Advancing the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, (STEM) Agenda conference accepted Dr. Jeremy Gallegos’ paper “A Philosopher Looks at STEM Quality in Higher Education from a Liberal Arts and Sciences Perspective.” Dr. Gallegos is the associate dean of the College of Adult and Professional Studies.

Deanna Hedrick retired in February.

Hedrick worked in the education department, University Relations and as the administrative assistant to the director of athletics, totaling 11 years.

Alumni Key: G’__ = Associate or Bachelor’s Degree Graduation Year; M’__ = Master’s Degree Graduation Year; FS’__ = Former Student, Last Year Attended

FALL 2012

27

CLASSnotes

Lisa Hittle, assistant professor of music, received the Homer Osborne Award for outstanding work in the area of jazz education from the Wichita Jazz Festival in April.

She performed weekly with her jazz quartet at Larkspur and Ya Ya’s restaurants throughout the summer.

Dr. Evelyn Hume, dean of the Graduate School, retired in June after three years.

Jennifer Jay, assistant professor of social sciences and program director of the Program for Adult College Education, is pursuing her Ph.D. in human development and family science from Oklahoma State University.

Tony Lubbers, assistant director of financial aid, will serve as the presidentelect of the Kansas Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (KASFAA) in 2012-13, then as the president in 2013-14. He will be in charge of organizing the fall 2012 and spring 2013 KASFAA conferences.

Susan McClellan, database administrator, retired in February after 5 years at Friends University.

Carolyn McLachlan, administrative coordinator at the Lenexa Education Center, retired in July after 11 years at Friends University.

Gary Rapp, assistant dean of student affairs, chaired the lecture showcase selection committee for the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) National Convention. Rapp led the process that reviewed and selected the top 15 speakers and educators to showcase at the convention.

He and Jennifer Randolph, associate director of campus life, accompanied nine student government officers to the NACA Huge Leadership weekend in San Antonio in June.

28 F riends U niversity

focus

Jennifer Randolph, associate director of campus life, is serving as the educational and professional development coordinator on the 2012 National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Central Regional Conference program committee. This conference links higher education and entertainment communities, creating educational and business opportunities for student and professional members.

She also served as the coordinatorelect for a committee planning a NACA Student Government Institute in Philadelphia this summer. The conference assists student governments in developing strong student-driven leadership on campus.

Dr. John Rhodes, associate professor of education and professional education unit assessment coordinator, chaired an onsite visit for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education Board of Examiners in February and served as mentor for the new chair during their June training.

He and Dr. Jan Wilson, professor and chair of education, director of teacher education, co-presented “Enhancing Early Field Experiences in a Dual Language Learning School: Lessons Learned Through Ongoing Development of a PDS Partnership” at the Professional Development Schools National Conference in March. Dr. Rhodes also judged student papers and presentations at the Kansas Junior Academy of Sciences in May, and coplanned the February district competition for National History Day held at Friends University.

Karen Scroggins, assistant professor of graphic arts, attended the Universities and Colleges Design Association conference at Virginia Tech in May. She is serving on the Wichita American Institute of Graphic Arts board and on the Valley Center, Kan., advisory board for career and technical education. In the spring,

she participated in the City Arts show “Seeds of Change: Re-planted, A Mixed Media Show” and the Feminist Art Project’s “Art Lives” show.

Dr. Jim Smith, associate professor of religion and director of the Christian Spiritual Formation Institute, was the featured speaker at Ottawa University’s Conference for Pastors and Laity in January. He presented four sessions during the conference – “How Do We Experience God in Our Daily Lives?,” “Can We Find Balance in Our Daily Lives?,” “How Can the Character of Christ Be Formed in Me?,” and “How Can the Church Become a Community of Grace?”

Sanya Wiles, director of prior learning assessment, completed her Master of Business Administration in January.

Dr. Jan Wilson, professor and chair of education, director of teacher education, published “Transforming Secondary Mathematics Teaching with Technology” in “Science and Mathematics Education: International Innovations, Research, and Practices.”

She is serving the Kansas State Department of Education as president of the professional development schools, on the teacher preparation and professional development education committee and on the professional learning committee. She judged for the 74th annual Junior Academy of Science fair and the National History Day district competition.

DONATE ONLINE Friends University now offers a more convenient way to donate: Submit your tax-deductible gift at www.friends.edu/giving.

Thank you for your support!

friends annual FUND WE ARE EXTREMELY EXCITED TO HAVE REACHED NEW HEIGHTS THIS YEAR.

2012 Phonathon Breaks Records This year’s Phonathon was great! And great is probably the easiest way to describe the support we received.

We received a record number of pledges (1,596), a record number of pledges fulfilled (1,094), a record amount of dollars pledged ($95,380) and a record amount of dollars donated ($87,977.50).

So to say this was a great Phonathon is probably an understatement. But instead of focusing on that, I would like to talk about what made the Phonathon great. From the student callers to the staff that organized the calling, from the local businesses and individuals that donated prizes or food for our callers to the thousands of people our students talked to, all of these things made the Phonathon great.

We have been working to build a successful on-campus student Phonathon for the past four years and we are extremely excited to have reached new heights this year. Of course, we hope this is only the beginning, and we expect even greater things in the future!

Thank you so much for taking the time to listen to the students and have

such great conversations with them.

Phonathon will begin again this fall and we can’t wait to see what we can do next.

In addition to the businesses listed, thank you to the many individuals who helped support our student callers by providing food, drinks, prizes and encouragement. You kept our callers motivated (and fed), and your generosity and support made huge a difference to our students.

• All-Star Sports • Applebee’s • Barnes & Noble • Botanica • Chili’s • Cinnamon’s Deli • Eighth Day Books • Exploration Place • Fazoli’s • Fox and Hound • Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers • Friends University Bookstore • Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q • Jason’s Deli • Joe’s Seat Cover & Car Wash • Knolla’s Pizza • McAlister’s Deli

By Aaron Winter, G’99/M’02, Director of Annual Fund

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Midwest Single Source Monica’s Bundt Cake Company Noodles & Company Old Mill Tasty Shop On the Border Panera Bread P.F. Chang’s Quiznos Rock River Rapids Aquatic Center Scooter’s Coffee and Yogurt Spear’s Restaurant & Pie Shop Tanganyika Wildlife Park Two Brothers BBQ When Pigs Fly Bar-B-Que Wichita Ice Center

Contact the Annual Fund Office 316-295-5815 or 1-800-794-6945, ext. 5815 or annualfund@friends.edu

FALL 2012

29

PLANNED giving THERE WAS NEVER A QUESTION THAT WE WERE GOING TO HAVE A COLLEGE EDUCATION.

A Legacy of Compassion and Selflessness

1979 TALISMAN YEARBOOK PHOTO

as well) could go to college and make their dreams come true. Their parents inculcated compassion, selflessness and servant leadership through their actions.

Today, Cheryl and Karen continue to exemplify these qualities.

By May 2015, Cheryl will cross the commencement stage at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary with a Ph.D. in leadership from the School of Church Ministries. A bit of a departure from being a respiratory therapist for more than 35 years, but something she feels called to do. Her ministry focus will be serving recently widowed women in the church.

She attributes many steps on this journey to her parents’ philosophy of always putting others first in thought and deed.

Karen follows the service path as well, actively volunteering at her church and serving in leadership positions with the Telephone Pioneers and Easter Seals Capper Foundation.

“Mom was my personal cheerleader, telling me to do my hardest work first,” 1976 TALISMAN YEARBOOK PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

How do parents pass down qualities like compassion and selflessness?

One way is to put their own dreams aside and make it possible for their children to have a quality college experience. This was the case for sisters Cheryl (Huntley) Erwin, G’76, and Karen Huntley, G’79.

Cheryl and Karen were blessed to have parents – Eugene and Leah Jean – who worked and sacrificed together, as a team, to ensure that their girls would have the opportunity to attend Friends University.

“There was never a question that we were going to have a college education,” Cheryl said. “Mother ran the roads with us until we could drive, taking us to various church activities, 4-H Club, music lessons and marching band, while Dad was working long hours making the farm a success.”

Eugene gave up his dream of becoming a doctor and remained on the farm, so both of his girls (and wife,

Eugene F. and Leah Jean Huntley 30 F riends U niversity

focus

Cheryl Huntley

Karen Huntley

By Nancy Hinten, Director of Planned Giving

Karen said. There were many times she wanted to give up, but with her parents’ encouragement and her own persistence, Karen recently retired after 32 years with AT&T Inc., her career culminating as network engineering manager.

Both women majored in biology and were active in leadership roles at Friends University, resulting in professionals committed to service. Cheryl’s activities included University Band, Iota Theta Mu (IOM) sorority, Health-Related Professions Organization, Student Government (president her senior year) and May Queen; while Karen was equally active as a resident aide, IOM sorority member, student librarian, Model U.N. participant and Homecoming Queen.

They both recall rigorous training under Dr. Robert Dove, Dr. Kathryn Boyle, Dr. John Cheng, Dr. George Potts and Dr. Robert Johnson.

The sisters have underwritten the Eugene F. and Leah Jean Huntley Endowed Scholarship in loving memory and honor of their parents. This scholarship gives young people the opportunity to attend a Christian college, something that their parents sacrificially provided their daughters.

The Huntley’s legacy of compassion and selflessness has been passed down successfully from one generation to another.

PHOTO FROM “FRIENDS UNIVERSITY:1898-1973”

Then and Now MODEL U.N. TRADITION TEACHES STUDENTS LIFE-LONG LESSONS

PHOTO FROM “FRIENDS UNIVERSITY:1898-1973”

For more than 40 years, Friends University has been part of a tradition of discourse and leadership – sending hundreds of students through the ranks of a mock United Nations. Students discuss, debate, research and propose solutions to global issues while posing as delegates from member countries of the actual U.N. The Model U.N. program began at the University after Philip Nagley, professor of history and political science, attended a study tour in 1963 at the U.N. in New York.

Two years later, Nagley led 32 students to New York for their first Model U.N. experience.

“We were able to go to New York, Harvard, St. Louis and Oklahoma,” said Dana Seifert, G’70.

C.G. Chacko, who was also a faculty advisor from 1967 through the mid-’80s, said students won several awards.

“The whole purpose was to develop leadership,” Chacko said. “The students of Model U.N. became great leaders in the community, politics, law and teaching.”

One such leader is Brooke (Bennett) Aziere, G’00, who attended the Harvard National Model U.N. in 1999 and 2000. Aziere is currently a partner at Foulston Siefkin law firm in Wichita. She said Model U.N. participants represented a country’s needs, position and goals “regardless of whether or not we agreed with a position.

“The experience gave me some perspective on what it would be like not to live in the best nation in the world – to live in a third-world country ravaged by civil wars and famines,” she said. “It’s very humbling, and it changed my worldview.”

“The most important thing I learned,” said junior Joshua Hicks, “was to voice my opinion and take everybody else’s opinion into consideration.”

Senior Doug Murdoch “had nothing but positive experiences. It was always a lot of fun to hang out with, debate with, and get to know fellow undergraduates interested in international relations.”

Aaron Gurley, G’12, credits Model U.N. with helping him get a job working for the director of National Security and International Policy at a think tank in Washington, D.C., where he researched and crafted papers regarding international policies toward terrorism and the repercussions their actions create across borders.

Brittany Roembach, G’12, says everything she learned is applicable to her current career as an associate producer at KWCH in Wichita.

“It’s one of the best outlets for students interested in international affairs,” she said.

“It’s something that not only teaches students about parliamentary procedure, research and debate, but also teaches you how to fight for something. That’s a huge lesson in life.

It’s easy to have a dream. The hardest part is putting up the fight to get it done.”

Dana Seifert and husband Roger, G’70, also believe in the benefits of Model U.N. – so much so that they donated to help fund the 2012 trip. With funds raised, the students were able to spend an extra day at the national competition.

“We found the whole thing to be a very important program,” Dana said. “We think it’s a valuable activity, and we encourage others to do it.”

Professor Philip Nagley (standing) established the University’s Model U.N. program.

In 1965 Mary Kay Armstrong and Robert Minter served as the secretary-general and president of the general assembly.

Students from more than 450 high schools and colleges discuss disarmament, international trade and development, the Vietnam War, and more at the University’s fifth annual Model U.N. in 1969. The discussion was held at the Broadview Hotel.

COURTESY PHOTO

BY SARA ORNELAS

Karl Watson, Brittany Roembach and Michael Evenson represent the Republic of Korea in general assembly at the 2011 Midwest Model U.N. conference. The students addressed South Korean economic development.

ATTEND THE MODEL U.N. REUNION Learn more about the Saturday, Oct. 20, reunion on page 19.

FALL 2012

31

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1339 Wichita, Kansas

Institutional Advancement Office 2100 W. University Ave. Wichita, Kansas 67213 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

UPCOMING

events

Mark Your Calendars for These

Upcoming Friends University Events . . .

Oct. 14, 2012

Run with Friends at the Wichita Prairie Fire Marathon Downtown Wichita

Oct. 18, 2012 Great Conversation!

Wichita Scottish Rite

Oct. 19, 2012

Student Council, Government & Leadership Reunion Wichita Campus

Oct. 20, 2012

Milestone Class Reunions for 1962 and 1987 Wichita Campus

Oct. 20, 2012 Model U.N. Reunion Wichita Campus

Oct. 20, 2012

Homecoming Parade, Block Party, Carnival and Game Wichita Campus

MORE EVENTS AND NEWS

Nov. 10, 2012

Singing Quakers Alumni Choir Concert Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Wichita

Dec. 1, 2012

Run with Friends at the Wichita Arthritis Foundations’ Jingle Bell Run Downtown Wichita

Check friends.edu for more news.

Purchase tickets for

Purchase tickets for

FINE ARTS EVENTS

ATHLETICS EVENTS

at friends.edu/finearts

at friendsathletics.com