Spotlight - Spring 2023 - Emporia State University

Building Something Special

Due to the possibility of schedule changes and adjustments, we recommend you visit the following websites to see the most current information on upcoming ESU and local events.

ESU Alumni Association Events � emporia.edu/alumnievents

Emporia Main Street � emporiamainstreet.com

Emporia Arts Council � emporiaksarts.org

Emporia Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau � visitemporia.com/events

Managing Editor Lindsay Thompson lthomp15@emporia.edu

Design & Layout

Ryan O’Meara romeara@emporia.edu

Photography University Photography Staff u-phtgy@emporia.edu

Spotlight on Alumni

Laurie Pitman lpitman@emporia.edu

Teddi Davis (BS 2007) tdavis@emporia.edu

Contributors

Krystal Baugher

Kelly Clisham

Kate Kreiman (BA 2015, MLS 2017)

Gwendolynne Larson

Paula Paine

Donald Weast (BFA 1998)

Editorial Committee

Jenni Denton (MBA 2016)

Kelly Heine (BFA 2001)

Shane Shivley (BSB 2000)

Emporia State University President

Ken Hush (BSB 1982)

Vice President for University Advancement and Foundation President

Shane Shivley

Vice President for Alumni & Stewardship and Associate Vice President for University Advancement

Jenni Denton

Director of Alumni Relations

Tiffany Wilson (BS 2010)

Foundation Board of Trustees Chairperson

Diane Beatty (BSB 1978)

Alumni Association Board of Directors President Dana Walker (BSB 1986)

Spotlight is the magazine of Hornet Nation, consisting of more than 66,000 alumni and friends of Emporia State University. The Emporia State University Alumni Association and Emporia State Foundation, 1500 Highland St., Emporia, KS 66801-5018, publish Spotlight twice a year.

Contact Information Spotlight

1500 Highland Street, Emporia, KS 66801-5018

620-341-5440

Postmaster, send address corrections to Alumni Association, 1500 Highland Street, Emporia, KS 66801-5018

Volume 52, Number 2

Dear Hornet Nation,

In January 2022, Emporia State University leadership began studying our institution specifically to evaluate our entire organization and reimagine it. We took a future-focused point of view built on four foundational principles:

(1) STUDENTS — STUDENTS — STUDENTS — Elevating the student experience on and off campus is our top priority.

(2) One Leadership Team — Organizing for a collaborative team approach across campus.

(3) Data-Driven Decisions — Making decisions based on hard data like student demand, the needs of the Kansas workforce, enrollment data and trends, labor statistics, etc.

(4) Financial Stewardship — Practicing efficiency and accountability while keeping in mind our partners and stakeholders — including taxpayers.

Twelve months later, Emporia State is positioned to be viable and vibrant for today’s modern students. We are building something special.

To move us toward a viable future, we had to think about how we operate completely differently. It meant reviewing our existing academic programs and parting with some so we could invest in programs that would best serve the most students.

Data shows that about 72% of our undergraduate students are enrolled in three core areas: teacher education (27%), cybersecurity or technology (24%) and nursing and health sciences (21%). Of our graduate students, 83% major in these three core areas: education (45%), business or technology (23%) and library and information management (15%).

Emporia State serves Kansas and the Kansas workforce. Of our undergraduate students, 87% are from Kansas, and 80% stay in Kansas for work when they graduate. ESU is a regional economic engine producing talented graduates who are the backbone of the state of Kansas. We are graduating excellent educators and nurses. From communicators to accountants, we are supplying Kansas businesses with the talent they need.

Yes, we are making big changes. Higher education is different than in years past and universities are facing increased pressure to respond to what students and their families want and need. Emporia State is leading the way into this new era.

In this issue of Spotlight, you will find a great deal of information about our go-forward direction. I also encourage you to visit emporia.edu/future for more information, campus communications, where we are investing and what is happening in other states.

It is a great time to be part of Hornet Nation. I hope you will join us as we go Together, Forward and Build Something Special !

With Hornet Pride, Ken Hush (BSB 1982)

ESU President

The State of Higher Education

Type ‘What’s wrong with higher education?’ into your favorite search engine and you will find scores of articles on the subject. The articles cover a variety of concerns and analyses, with many drawing the conclusion higher education just doesn’t work like it used to.

In simplest terms, that’s true. Higher education is different. Public colleges and universities rely primarily on tuition, state and federal funding and philanthropic support to operate. This funding structure and enrollment numbers have changed significantly over the last several decades, and as a result, colleges and universities have been in a process of evolution.

The growth years

From the close of World War II through the end of the 1970s, higher education experienced a boom in state and federal funding.

This was initially sparked by the high number of returning WWII soldiers utilizing the GI Bill. Then, the Baby Boomer generation, at the time the largest generational group in U.S. history, came of age, producing an enormous demographic uptick in degree-seeking students. Enrollments also swelled because of an increase in women attending college and the draft deferment option during the Vietnam War.

To both address and encourage college enrollment, government support increased. Prompted by the Russian launch of Sputnik, the United States passed the 1958 National Defense Education Act, which introduced grants and subsidized loans for college students. This was followed by the 1965 Higher Education Act, which further increased federal funding of higher education and created the Pell Grant and Stafford Loan programs.

Between fiscal years 1960 and 1970, states increased appropriations for higher education operating expenses by over 336%, according to the summer of 2015 issue of the Journal of Education Finance. These funds covered the majority of operational needs for colleges and universities. Because of this funding, it was possible to keep tuition low for students. Philanthropic support aided some students and schools but didn’t yet play a significant role for most public institutions.

During this same time, enrollments skyrocketed around the nation. From 1945 to 1960, undergraduate enrollment increased by 45% and then doubled again by 1970, as reported by Inside Higher Ed.

Shifting sands and a pivotal event with lasting implications

Starting in the 1980s, government support continued, but at a slower rate of 106%. Enrollment increased at a more modest 14%. Early in the 1990s, a recession triggered the first-ever decline in state funding, but by fiscal year 2000, it was up 45% for the decade, per the Journal of Education Finance.

This slow shift to funding, and the resulting adaptation process for higher education, might have continued at a steady pace. But monumental changes came in 2008 with the Great Recession. The impacts were devastating across the economy, resulting in massive layoffs and slashed budgets for states. Across the country, states made historic cuts to funding of higher education. Schools were forced to raise tuition to cover the operational shortfalls.

The Great Recession also triggered a surge in enrollment. This increase was fueled by a demographically large generation, the Millennials, and the high number of unemployed seeking more education or a career change to improve their employment opportunities. It was a challenging time for schools to operate. The hope was that once the economy recovered, things would return to normal.

But even after the recession ended, state funding was not restored to pre-recession levels. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, Kansas funding per student declined by 23.8%, adjusted for inflation, between 2008 and 2017. As a result, colleges and universities had to cut budgets and raise tuition to cover shortfalls. Although the tuition burden on students increased, for Kansas schools there were limitations on what tuition increases were allowed by the state and governing body, Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR). There were also limits to what would be feasible for students to pay.

Photo by Jens Herrndorff on Unsplash

Where things stand today and what lies ahead

Since 1980, the nationwide average cost at 4-year colleges has increased by more than 180%, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Keeping tuition affordable has been a priority for Kansas colleges. In spite of that, the increases that have occurred are still a challenge for many students. Students are increasingly reliant on financial aid, scholarships and student loans to make attending college a possibility, with many resorting to loans from private lenders with higher interest rates.

Data from the Institute of Education Sciences Report on the Condition of Education 2022 finds student enrollment has been in decline since 2011, following the short surge caused by the Great Recession. Due to the growth of online degree programs, many of the enrolled students never set foot on campus, which means smaller numbers of students have been paying for oncampus food and housing services.

The economic difficulties of the Great Recession had another effect that will challenge higher education soon. Between 2008 and 2013, 2.3 million fewer babies were born. This contraction in births will result in what is referred to as the demographic cliff. Put simply, beginning in 2025 the number of students graduating high school is projected to decline by 15%, according to The Hechinger Report. This will make future efforts to recruit students for college more competitive than ever before.

Adapting and evolving – why it matters

These challenges are not insurmountable, but they do require serious attention and adaptation. It is essential that schools like Emporia State University continue to provide an affordable and accessible opportunity for students to pursue a degree.

Spurred by low unemployment, some high school graduates are questioning whether college is even necessary. College may not suit everyone, but for many, it is a life-changing choice. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, people with bachelor’s degrees on average earn almost 40% more than those with only a high school diploma and have a lower rate of unemployment. This was demonstrated during the COVID-19 outbreak. In June 2020, 6.8% of college graduates were unemployed compared to 12.2% of high school graduates, per the Pew Research Center.

Further declines in college graduates will impact more than each individual student’s life, it will impact the entire economy. Even before the pandemic, the United States was facing a shortage of 9 million college-educated workers, and this shortage is only growing. Without sufficient graduates to meet the workforce’s needs, for example in fields like healthcare and education, the effects will be felt by all of society.

The benefits institutions like Emporia State deliver are economic mobility for the individual and economic return for society. ESU graduates provide stability to the workforce and help attract and retain businesses to Kansas because 80% of our graduates stay and work in the state.

Emporia State has been focused on evaluating every facet of our financial and structural operations, not shying away from sometimes very difficult decisions, all for the purpose of serving students today, tomorrow and for the foreseeable future.

ESU is investing in the programs students want and the workforce needs. The university is committed to helping prospective students understand the lifelong benefits of earning a degree, making pursuing a degree at ESU affordable and attainable and giving students enrolled at ESU all the tools they need to graduate ready to work in their field and with employment opportunities in place.

Breaking Down the Numbers

As state funding for higher education decreases, the cost to students and their families increases.

Emporia State continues to be a lower cost option for students.

Data reflects cost of in-state tuition at public universities 1970-2021

Sources: National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor

Due to shifts in generation size, a currently strong labor market and concerns about costs, undergraduate enrollment is in decline nationwide.

Emporia State undergraduate enrollment* has mirrored the national trend.

includes full and part-time students

reflects degree-granting four-year and two-year public, private nonprofit, and private for-profit institutions Source: U.S. Department of Education

In spite of the eroding attitudes toward higher education, the numbers show earning a degree delivers value — both in earnings potential and employment security.

Data are for persons age 25 and over. Earnings are for full-time wage and salary workers Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Current Population Survey

Photo by Byron Breytenbach on Unsplash

Emporia State has been focused on evaluating every facet of our financial and structural operations, not shying away from sometimes very difficult decisions, all for the purpose of serving students today, tomorrow and for the foreseeable future.

Q+A with the New Provost, Dr. R. Brent Thomas

Do you think there are misconceptions or confusion about some of the suspended programs?

Emporia State University has undergone significant changes over the last year, specifically suspending some majors, minors and concentrations. Can you explain what factors led to the need for these changes?

I've been at Emporia State for almost 18 years and served as a department chair, dean or provost for most of that time. I've been through budget cuts in every one of those roles. The approach was always the same, eliminate positions that happened to be vacant or take advantage of other cuts that happen to be conveniently available at that moment in time.

It was a kick-the-can-down-the-road approach. Those decisions would have made sense if we were dealing with short-term financial issues, but the reasons behind these cuts weren’t shortterm issues. The issues we’re dealing with are long-term shifts. They're going to be with us for a long time.

When you have a decade-plus of making those kinds of nonstrategic cuts, they add up. That old method didn’t allow us to invest in anything or make strategic decisions. We had to do things differently, and we had to do it quickly.

Among other organizational concerns, we generally made changes to the areas that had less interest, not because they weren't valuable disciplines, but because we didn't have very many students interested in those programs anymore.

What process was used to approach these changes and what are the desired outcomes?

We looked at a lot of data. We looked at head count, enrollment and student credit hour production anywhere from the last 5 to 20 years. We looked at workforce demands and career placement rates.

We looked at how many prospective students contacted ESU and inquired about each program. We also looked at how many of those people enrolled. For example, you might look at a program and see the enrollment in that program has been declining steadily for 20 years. Then you look at the recruitment funnel, and you find out that in the previous 12 months, only two prospective students expressed interest in this program. Some programs, minors and concentrations no longer made sense for ESU. Narrowing our focus allows us to reinvest those resources into programs we can maintain and grow.

It also allows us to take a more strategic approach. For example, it is allowing us to invest in the art department in a way that could, for the first time in a very long time, meet the requirements of their specialized accrediting organization. We are also in the process of hiring another assistant professor of graphic design for the art department – one of the most popular concentrations in the art major.

Even in areas where programs were suspended, we are re-envisioning and investing. For example, in the English department, we are launching a completely unique and modernized Bachelor of Secondary Education English program, revamping composition one and two for our General Education courses and reimagining the English minor in such a way that students in any major on campus can acquire skills that will be valuable in their profession.

Yes, I believe so. For instance, we have suspended programs — majors, minors and concentrations — but that doesn’t mean that we don’t offer courses in those disciplines anymore. For example, I think there is a misunderstanding about history and political science. We suspended those two majors. However, it was actually the department that proposed the plan to merge these two majors. The department chair brought this proposal forward to me last spring. They said, ‘We know our enrollment numbers in the history major and the political science major have been declining. We want to be proactive.’ So, they made the recommendation to suspend the two standalone majors and merge them into a single broad field major. We’ve received formal approval both internally and from the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR) for that merger now. Students who would've formerly declared a major in either history or political sciences would now declare “history and government” as their major. This new structure also aligns better with the Bachelor in Secondary Education in social sciences.

There's also a misunderstanding about our secondary education programs. There's only one thing that we stopped doing related to K-12 teacher preparation and that was the journalism endorsement. That's it. Everything else we're still doing, and we plan to continue doing them well.

As Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, what are your priorities and goals for Emporia State?

My first priority is the continuation and completion plans for students in programs that were suspended. We will honor the commitment we made to the students we recruited to those programs.

Second, as I mentioned earlier, is moving forward in the areas where we have made focused reinvestments.

Third, we are focused on optimizing the structure of academic affairs to best align departments and disciplines to increase opportunities for collaboration across traditional disciplinary boundaries. Additionally, creating a structure that provides better opportunities for leadership development and succession planning.

As you look toward the future, what outcomes do you anticipate from these changes? What will be the impact on the university, our students and future students?

These changes will allow us to focus on, and elevate, the programs Emporia State is known for. We want to deliver students the very best experience in the programs we offer. Our investment strategy will allow us to do that.

I am also excited about the long-term impacts our pre-K-12 outreach approach will have on increasing future enrollment at ESU and getting young people excited about education. Additionally, the changes we are making to the structure of academic affairs will allow us to be more nimble and responsive to the needs of our students and react to changes in the marketplace.

Any closing thoughts?

I want to acknowledge that the reduction to programs and personnel have been painful. However, by making these difficult decisions, we are now more focused than ever, and we are strategically reallocating resources that will be beneficial to our current and future students. I have never been more excited about the future of Emporia State University!

“These changes will allow us to focus on, and elevate, the programs Emporia State is known for. We want to deliver students the very best experience in the programs we offer. Our investment strategy will allow us to do that.”

BUILDING BUILDING

Something Special Something Special

Investing in the Future

Emporia State University is evolving to address the challenges facing higher education, seizing the opportunities that will best meet the needs of today’s students. ESU is building on our strong foundation to move boldly into the future and is focused on educating and graduating students prepared for successful careers by investing in our unique strengths and delivering modern, best-in-class programs and experiences.

Education

With nearly 160 years of experience training the best teachers for K-12 classrooms, Emporia State University continues to build on its legacy through continued investment in The Teachers College education programs. In fact, 27% of ESU’s undergraduate and 45% of graduate students are pursuing education degrees. Emporia State University’s education programs for both the elementary and secondary levels focus on immersing students into in-classroom training and providing a thorough knowledge of their content areas. Kansas is currently experiencing a 1,600+ teacher shortage, and Emporia State is focused on producing the best teachers to serve the needs of the state.

Elementary Education (Grades K-6)

Certification Areas for Grades Pre-K-12

Art Health Music

Nursing

Investments in both faculty and infrastructure for Emporia State’s Department of Nursing will benefit current and future students as well as supply much-needed, highly trained nurses for the state of Kansas. Twenty-one percent of ESU undergraduate students are enrolled in nursing and health sciences majors.

Strategic Reinvestments Include:

■ Two additional programs: RN to BSN, an online program for those already working as registered nurses who want to add a bachelor’s degree in nursing; and an MSN, an online master’s of science in nursing program.

■ Three additional faculty positions.

■ Moving the Department of Nursing to a new state-of-the-art facility on campus.

Biology

Investments in the Department of Biological Sciences will enhance offerings for students seeking careers in healthcare, biochemistry/molecular biology and fisheries and wildlife. ESU will invest in faculty, space renovation and state-of-the art equipment that will ensure our graduates leave ESU with real-world experience.

Specifically, the Department of Biological Sciences Will:

■ Hire three faculty positions.

- A mammologist for fisheries and wildlife.

- A human physiologist for healthcare.

- A forensic chemist for biochemistry/ molecular biology and forensic science.

■ Support a major renovation to incorporate state-of-the-art human physiology equipment. These investments allow faculty in the department to design classes and research opportunities that provide our students engaging practical experiences both in the field and in the laboratories.

Business + Technology

Investments in the computer science program in Emporia State’s School of Business will prepare students for the fastest-growing career fields in the nation and answer student and employer needs. Twenty-four percent of ESU students are enrolled in programs that prepare students to work in a variety of positions in Kansas businesses including technology and cybersecurity.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, “Overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.” Likewise, cybersecurity jobs are projected to grow a whopping 39% from 2020 to 2030.

Thanks to generous donors and federal funding, Emporia State is opening a new Cybersecurity Research + Outreach Center in fall 2023. Leticia Rust, director of the new center, says the focus will be on three primary objectives:

1) prospective student outreach and recruitment;

Esports

Esports is a billion-dollar industry, projected to grow to $5.5B by 2029. Professional esports teams garner more than 380 million viewers creating revenue from streaming services, media rights, advertising, sponsorships and more.

In addition to professional teams, the number of collegiate teams is growing – the National Association of Collegiate Esports currently has 255 member schools with over 5,000 student-athletes participating in varsity esports programs. Emporia State has joined the ranks of collegiate teams.

This spring, ESU launched Hornet Esports, a competitive esports team that will compete in regional and national tournaments.

Physical Education

Spanish

Certification Areas for Middle Level Education (Grades 5-8)

English

Language Arts

Mathematics

Science

Social Sciences

Certification Areas for Secondary Education (Grades 6-12)

Biology

Business

Chemistry

Earth Science

English

Mathematics

Physics Psychology

Social Sciences

Speech + Theatre

2) cybersecurity microcredentials/certifications for ESU students; and 3) community outreach, education and cybersecurity certification.

ESU will also hire an additional computer science tenure track faculty member, which will allow ESU’s computer science program to seek prestigious accreditation from ABET, the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology.

The new team currently consists of varsity and junior varsity teams for the games Overwatch and Valorant with plans to expand to more games like League of Legends and Rocket League. Each team consists of 5-7 players. Varsity players will be eligible for scholarships. The team will also get to compete in a brand new esports arena scheduled to open in fall 2023 and will house 24 Alienware gaming stations, each equipped with 32GB of memory, 12 cores and an RTX 3060ti. For students who want to just play for fun, they can participate in ESU’s esports club, the largest Recognized Student Organization on campus.

In addition to esports gaming, ESU is also pleased to introduce an academic component, e-Ventures. Students will be able to take on projects and engage in curriculum that builds skills in technology, illustration, design and coding to prepare them for career options in the gaming industry.

These are just some of the programs Emporia State is elevating for our students. Read more about our investments in Communication, History + Political Science, Music, Art and Diversity, Equity + Inclusion at emporia.edu/future

Building Skills + Connections

ESU Provides Unique Advantages for Career Success

A State-of-the-Art Nursing Facility on Campus

Emporia State University is constructing a brand new School of Nursing building on the ESU campus. The facility will also be home to the Student Wellness Center, ESU’s healthcare and counseling services for students. It is scheduled to open in the fall 2025 semester and will provide a broad range of advantages to students, the Kansas workforce and the university.

Annika (Miller) Koch (BS 20-Nursing) was determined not to follow in her sister’s footsteps by attending Emporia State University. That was until she made campus visits to other large universities, and they didn’t even know her name.

Coming from a small town in Kansas with a graduating class of 70, then-Miller knew that she wanted to become a nurse — a dream that began following a hospital internship in high school. But where to fulfill that dream? She wanted something bigger, but she also wanted a sense of community.

After her campus tour with ESU, it became undeniable that this was the school for her. From the Ambassador to the professors, students and staff, she could tell ESU wanted Annika Miller — not just another nursing student. And she was highly impressed by Emporia State’s higher-than-average pass rate on the NCLEX nurse licensure exam, demonstrating that ESU students were very well prepared.

Encountering new, diverse experiences and people at every turn, the large-to-her ESU campus proved overwhelming at first. But Koch dove in. Her first semester, she became an ESU Ambassador, giving other potential students the tour — and attention — she received. She was also in the SPURS honor society and bolstered her nursing education by becoming a member of the Eastern Kansas Association of Nursing (EKAN), where she helped bring in speakers, do fundraisers, assist with blood drives and go to conventions.

The biggest ESU advantage for Koch was the immersive nursing program. It was hard, she acknowledges. Really hard. But she came away career ready, in part due to the hands-on clinicals that started her very first semester, as well as the internships she completed and the professors who challenged her.

“ESU has the most wonderful faculty who really care about you — academically, professionally and personally.”

It’s what came with her education, however, that Koch actually values most about her ESU experience. “The nursing cohort model let us be with the same 25-30 people all three years,” she shared. “We became a community. We helped each other, taught each other, encouraged each other and that translated perfectly into the professional world where we now have to collaborate with others to do our jobs. It all stemmed from ESU.”

After graduating (without a ceremony) in 2020 during the peak of the COVID pandemic, Koch married her husband Barret (BA 18-Psychology, MS 19-School Psychology, EDS 20-School Psychology), and the couple has a five-month-old son, August. After leaving ESU, Koch took a job at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, MO, following an internship there during her final semester. She spent two years in the cardiac transplant unit before transitioning to the hospital’s new “Hospital in Your Home” program, which allows non-critical patients to receive care in their homes instead of being admitted. It is one of a handful of such programs in the nation.

Would Koch choose ESU again? In a heartbeat. “ESU has the most wonderful faculty who really care about you — academically, professionally and personally. The program is hard and the days are long, but the education and sense of community you get from ESU is awesome. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Are you or someone you know interested in a career in nursing? With our focus on student careers, ESU offers an incredibly affordable and smart option for higher education. ESU offers the same in-state tuition rate for every state in the continental U.S. Visit our website to request information about our degree programs.

The 30,000-square-foot building will be larger than the current School of Nursing space. As a result, it will be possible to grow the program and admit more nursing students. This will enhance opportunities for students to pursue this lucrative, high-demand career track. On average, there are 194,500 nursing job openings each year. Projections show the demand for registered nurses will grow by 9% through 2030.

The new construction is also a prudent investment. Since 1971, the School of Nursing has operated in Cora Miller Hall on the Newman Regional Health campus. Although this location has served our students well, remaining in Cora Miller Hall in the future would require purchasing the building and making significant investments in deferred maintenance. With this new construction, the investment will instead go into a state-of-theart facility. It will consolidate ESU’s infrastructure footprint, improve space utilization and reduce energy consumption and operating costs.

Bringing the program to the main campus will also put nursing students at the center of the student experience. It will make it easier for them to take part in student organizations, extracurricular activities and events, helping them get even more out of their time as students. This new facility will take Emporia State’s nursing program into an exciting new phase of growth and opportunity.

Emporia State University nursing students graduate with the experience and knowledge needed to be career ready. Graduates must pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) to become registered nurses. Graduates of Emporia State’s BSN program showed a 92% average first-time passage rate on the NCLEX over the last five years, compared to 85.6% for the state of Kansas and 86.5% nationally.

Funding for this best-in-class space is being made possible through donor support, grants and state investment. Are you interested in learning more about how you can be part of this bold next step for nursing?

Contact Amy Piersol to discuss supporting the new nursing facility or make a gift online to the Nursing & Wellness Fund and be part of the Together, Forward Campaign today.

Amy Piersol � Director of Development

620-341-6473 � apiersol@emporia.edu

Building Relationships + Experiences Building Leadership + Confidence

ESU Provides Personal Connections and Global Perspectives

One might wonder how a Japanese student from a city of 36 million people, Tokyo, would come to study at a university in Emporia, KS, a town of just 24,000. For Yui Sato, it was an opportunity she couldn’t pass up. Through a partnership that Emporia State University has with the Sakae Institute of Study Abroad (SISA), Sato was introduced to ESU and participated in a Success Seminar hosted on campus each summer for new Japanese students. Sato believes the 2018 seminar was pivotal to her successful entry into American culture and academic life.

The ESU advantage has followed Sato throughout her time as a student in Emporia. With a double major in accounting and data analytics, she makes the most of every opportunity afforded her for career success. For example, on campus, Sato has been involved in Kappa Delta Chi Sorority; Beta Alpha Psi, an accounting honor organization; and the Japanese association, Sakura. Each of these has given her valuable experience and relationships that have improved her professional and social skills.

Sato’s academic excellence helped her garner ESU scholarships that offset some of her tuition costs: the Deloitte Accounting Scholarship, the Accounting Alumni Endowed Scholarship and the FORVIS Accounting Scholarship. “These scholarships allowed me to concentrate on my studies instead of money concerns,” said Sato. “They motivated me to study harder to show I was worthy of the confidence they placed in me.”

Because of her desire to continually broaden her horizons, in 2022, Sato sought study abroad opportunities through two of ESU’s sister universities. In the spring, she studied at the University of Turku in Turku, Finland, and in the fall at Bina Nusantara University in West Jakarta, Indonesia, adding to her global business acumen. Two internships also helped Sato prepare to enter the professional world as an experienced asset. For an entire year in 2021, she served as a tax intern with Security Benefit Corp. in Topeka, KS. Then, in the fall of 2022, she spent three months as an audit intern at KPMG LLP in Columbus, OH. “Usually accounting students have to choose between the audit or tax side of accounting,” Sato shared. “I was able to experience both. It was invaluable.”

The other secret ESU advantage that Sato touts is the faculty and staff. From Beth Ginter (MBA 98-Business Administration), director of student services and marketing for the School of Business, who got her to participate in the Emporia Entrepreneur Challenge her freshman year; to Dr. Mary Teal, associate professor of Accounting, Information Systems and Finance, who conducted accounting clinics beyond the classroom; to Assistant Professor Dr. Juan Chavarria, assistant professor of Accounting, Information Systems and Finance, who helped with her master’s program application, Sato credits these and others with the wellrounded preparation she received for a career in accounting.

After Sato graduates in May 2023, she will enter the Master of Science in Accounting program at the University of Washington, Tacoma. Her short-term goals are to earn her master’s degree and pass the CPA exams. While her long-term goal is to start her own business, her ESU education and credentials have already landed her a job with Atlanta-based Deloitte & Touche LLP as an audit assistant starting summer of 2024.

Study abroad and internship experiences are examples of the real-world learning opportunities Emporia State University offers students. These experiences equip graduates with a broad range of both career-specific and broadly applicable skills. It’s just one of the many ways ESU connects its graduates to careers. You can support more of these hands-on experiences through the Together, Forward campaign, by making a gift today.

ESU Provides Opportunities for Personal and Professional Growth

From beginning his freshman year feeling shy and rarely venturing out of his dorm room to becoming a gregarious and courageous leader of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, Chris Peine has come out of his shell and made a name for himself at Emporia State University.

Since childhood, Peine knew he wanted to be a musician. He grew up in small-town Garnett, KS where he started playing trumpet in the 5th grade and joined the choir in 7th grade.

After years of practicing and performing, he is now majoring in both music performance and music education, focusing his studies on both trumpet and vocal music. The opportunity to study more than one instrument is a unique benefit offered to ESU students that isn’t always possible at other colleges and one that Peine factored into his selection process. After exploring several college options, Peine came to ESU for a scholarship audition and tour of the campus.

“I knew right as I stepped on campus this was where I was going to go. It just felt like home. I know that's cliche or whatever, but I felt welcomed,” Peine said. Of course, the transition from his senior year of high school spent in COVID lockdown to a campus environment bustling with people was quite jarring for Peine at first. He missed home and felt a little hopeless. Then, one day in choir everything changed. What seemed like a simple invitation to watch a football game with a few guys from Phi Delta Theta transformed his life trajectory. He quickly joined the fraternity and has since served as scholarship chair, vice president and is currently serving as president, where he is tasked with overseeing the vision of the fraternity.

“It's just been a great experience overall,” Peine said. “Especially getting leadership opportunities. It’s helped me grow into who I am meant to be: someone outgoing, fun, loving.”

As a recipient of the presidential, instrumental talent and vocal talent scholarships as well as a scholarship through the fraternity and a couple of national scholarships, Peine remarked that he wouldn’t be here without them.

“Being able to go through college without having to worry if I’m going to be able to pay off next semester has been a blessing.”

Along with being president of Phi Delta Theta and working on his double major, he and a friend started a chess club on campus. Peine enjoys playing disc golf and going bowling. He is also tutoring for a middle school band class, helping the students learn notes and techniques, conducting classroom observation and on occasion getting to conduct. Once he graduates from ESU, Peine plans to open a music store and studio where he will teach lessons.

“I know I love music. I definitely think I have a good chance of being successful, and I’m going to push myself to be successful.”

Investing in students is investing in the future. Help future Hornets have the kinds of opportunities that will help them develop themselves personally and professionally. Join the Together, Forward campaign and make a gift today.

“They motivated me to study harder to show I was worthy of the confidence they placed in me.”

“It's just been a great experience overall. Especially getting leadership opportunities. It’s helped me grow into who I am meant to be: someone outgoing, fun, loving.”

Building Networks + Experience

ESU Provides an Environment to Uncover Passion and Purpose

On the path to a career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Kyle Whipple (BS 20-Biology) has already worn many different hats — architecture student, biology major, lab tech, sea turtle rescuer. Through it all, Emporia State University remains a vital part of his academic and professional ecosystem. After graduating from high school in Lawrence, KS, Whipple enrolled at a state school where he discovered that 500-student classes and an architecture degree were not for him. Neither was a job that kept him at a desk behind a computer. “I’m more of an active person,” says Whipple.

Instead, Whipple followed his curious nature to ESU and decided to major in biology. Whipple immediately noticed the ESU difference. His largest class had about 80 students in it, though most had 15 to 20. Whipple enjoyed the personal feeling on campus and in the classroom.

“The professors get to know everybody,” he says. “They knew who I was, and they knew how I was doing.”

The small campus also provided big opportunities for handson experience. With the herpetology class, Whipple had the chance to study the local reptiles and amphibians during a spring break trip to Oklahoma and Arkansas. He also spent lots of time doing fieldwork in the Kansas foothills and at Chase County Fishing Lake. “I got interested in conservation and wanting to work as a steward of the land,” he says.

Whipple worked as a technician for his advisor, Bill Jensen, professor of biological sciences, conducting rope drags to flush grassland birds out of the nest to monitor changes in population. For his senior research project, he focused on the foraging and nesting habits of the dickcissel, a migratory bird common to the Midwest. As Whipple started his job search, he realized how tremendous the value of learning-by-doing is for a new

Lifetime Gift, Lifetime Impact

Planned Giving Supporting Generations of Students

biology professional entering the job market. He accepted a six-month position with the American Conservation Experience (ACE) where he worked for room, board and a small stipend, but the hands-on learning was invaluable. “It gave me the experience I needed to get my foot in the door,” he says.

Short stints with organizations, including the Nature Conservancy and the State of Texas, gave Whipple the chance to travel and pick up skills like herbicide spraying, invasive plant removal and Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping. He surveyed endangered whooping cranes and helped rescue sea turtles, landing himself bragging rights and a social media-worthy photo. “Not a lot of students get to say that they’ve helped save sea turtles.”

In addition to gaining on-the-job experience, Whipple learned that ESU graduates are preceded by the strong reputation of the biology department, something he learned networking with others during his field study experiences. For example, he worked on a rope-dragging project with a graduate student in North Dakota whose previous year’s hire was also an ESU student. His crew leader at ACE was familiar with the quality work of ESU grads. Whipple was able to help another ESU alum land a spot at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. “It just goes to show you how important networking is,” he says. “The people you know make a big difference.”

From his start as what he refers to as a paid volunteer position to his work as an assistant crew leader, Whipple adds every skill to his field kit. Now, he’s looking forward to starting a government position as a biological science technician at Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge in South Dakota. After that, maybe graduate school. “We are a part of our planet and the ecosystem that we live in, and it is important for humanity that we preserve our planet and the things that keep it running right.”

Hands-on learning experiences are great ways for students to expand their skill sets and graduate career ready. You can help make more of these kinds of opportunities possible for future Hornets by supporting the Together, Forward campaign.

“The hope is for somebody to get the direction and inspiration from Emporia State that we got,” said Bob Gress (BA 74-Biology, MS 76-Biology). He was talking about the gift he and his wife, Mary Butel (BSE 72-Elementary Education, MS 74-Curriculum & Instruction), have left to Emporia State University in their trust.

Gress and Butel feel Emporia State was the catalyst for the life they’ve built together. As students here they had the opportunity to explore the subjects that sparked their curiosity. The couple found themselves drawn to nature and the sciences. Butel became a science educator for 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th-grade students. Gress founded and served as director of the Great Plains Nature Center and became a renowned nature photographer.

“Later in my career, when I was doing presentations at graduate schools, I compared Emporia State to these other schools. I thought, ‘I was lucky I landed in the place that was right for me," said Gress. “I didn’t know it until later, but they [ESU] gave me what I needed.”

The couple doesn’t consider themselves rich. They’ve worked hard all their lives to build up a nest egg for retirement as most people do. When they sat down with a financial planner to work out the details of their retirement, they discovered how simple and easy it is to make a gift through a will or trust. By naming ESU as a beneficiary of their trust, they can make the kind of gift they want to without a big financial expenditure right now. Their gift will allow future students to have their own life-shaping educational experience. “If somebody else can have the experience I had at Emporia State, that would be awesome,” said Butel.

Are you interested in doing what Bob and Mary have done? Learn how easy it is to make a gift by naming Emporia State University in your will or trust. Contact Angela Fullen, director of planned giving at the Emporia State University Foundation. She can answer your questions or help you get started.

If you have already named Emporia State in your will or trust, let Angela know. She will make sure your gift does everything you want it to do.

Angela Fullen � Director of Planned Giving 620-341-6465 � afullen@emporia.edu

“I would encourage anyone, if they are thinking about doing something like this, to contact the Foundation. For us, it has been a great experience.”

“If somebody else can have the experience I had at Emporia State, that would be awesome.”

- Mary Butel

Building Something Special —

TOGETHER TOGETHER

Philanthropic Support — What It Does

Philanthropy, also known as donor support, plays an important role in Emporia State University’s vitality. It directly serves and impacts Hornet students. Donors give to support scholarships, facilities, enhanced learning opportunities for students — like research projects or study abroad — and more. As a result, more students are able to enroll at Emporia State University and get a life-changing education.

Scholarships Enhance Recruitment and Retention

Scholarships are often a crucial factor for students deciding whether they can attend college and which school they will select.

For some students, pursuing a degree is not financially feasible without scholarships – making scholarships an important part of the recruitment process. They also help students stay enrolled and complete their degrees. For those earning talent-based scholarships, these gifts reward and acknowledge their hard work and encourage them to continue to develop their talents.

Thanks to the Kansas Board of Regents and the Kansas legislature, donors to scholarships have the opportunity to double their impact. The Kansas Comprehensive Grant provides funds for student scholarships by matching donor gifts. This is a great way to elevate your giving. If you want to learn more, contact Shannon Massey, campaign manager for the ESU Foundation, 620-341-6463, or smassey1@emporia.edu.

Donor-Supported Facilities Build the Student Experience

Some facilities, like the new School of Nursing building, are the result of a combination of public dollars and donor support. While others, like the Prophet Aquatic Research + Outreach Center, are 100% donor funded. But all of these facilities make it possible for students to get the most out of their time as students. As ESU prepares students for their future careers, donors are there, providing the spaces and places for optimal learning.

Creating More Real-World Experiences for Students

Hornets succeed because they receive hands-on learning opportunities in and out of the classroom. Whether they study abroad, perform research in the field, serve as an intern or all of the above, Hornets are encouraged to apply what they are learning in real-world situations.

College is a critical time to learn and grow, and these formative career-shaping opportunities are an essential part of what ESU offers students. Philanthropic support can make it possible for all Hornets to seize these opportunities regardless of their financial situation.

Philanthropic Support – Why It Is Important

The support of our donors makes a significant impact on how easy it is for students to choose Emporia State University and the spectrum of opportunities they can experience once they are enrolled.

When the alumni and friends of Emporia State come together to build and support a bright path forward for future Hornets, all of Hornet Nation shines. As we embark on the final stage of the Together, Forward campaign, now is the chance for everyone to be part of what we are building.

All of Hornet Nation can be part of building bright futures for tomorrow’s Hornets.

Make a gift today at emporia.edu/give

Through philanthropic support, you have the opportunity to take part in building something unique and important for the future of Emporia State University.

The John “Doc” Baxter Athletic Training and Human Performance Lab

Emporia State is renovating, re-equipping and re-envisioning the Athletic Training and Human Performance Labs. The renovation will transform the two existing spaces into one multi-use lab and will name the new space for ESU icon John “Doc” Baxter (MS 67-Physical Education).

This new and improved lab will provide hands-on training for students pursuing the Bachelor of Science degree in health & human performance and the Master of Science degree in athletic training. The new layout will optimize the square footage and provide more space for faculty and students to work and learn alongside one another.

The lab will provide students real-world preparation for positions in health promotion, strength and conditioning, personal and athletic training, public administration and related areas. New equipment is a vital part of the re-envisioned lab. The enhanced lab will include elements like:

■ New equipment for students to measure body composition and bone density.

■ Treadmills, cycle and rowing ergometers to conduct metabolic and cardiorespiratory testing.

■ Devices to measure metabolic biomarkers, conduct blood analysis and analyze blood flow restriction.

These resources will expand students’ opportunities to work with university and community populations in activities like health fairs, fitness testing and triathlon training groups.

The renovations and investment in new equipment are being made possible by philanthropic support. A generous lead gift launched this project and will memorialize John ‘Doc’ Baxter by naming the lab in his honor.

From 1966 to 2012, Baxter was the head athletic trainer at Emporia State, and was named director of Athletic Medicine in 2010. Known for his deep devotion to Hornet Athletics, Baxter received numerous honors, including the ESU Athletics Hall of Honor, Emporia State HPER Hall of Honor, the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) Hall of Fame, to name just a few. He was truly a legend whose impact lives on.

The John ‘Doc’ Baxter Athletic Training and Human Performance Lab will celebrate and immortalize Baxter’s dedication to athletic training at ESU. This project will create positive outcomes for students and the community. Students will gain exposure to new and varied cutting-edge equipment and the community will benefit from increased fitness resources. The lab will also serve as a powerful recruiting tool for prospective students, athletes and new faculty.

Donor Support Provides Major Improvements for Hornet Baseball

After playing their first 16 games outside of Emporia, the Hornet baseball team made its home debut on the refurbished infield of Glennen Field at the Trusler Sports Complex with a 13-0 win over Fort Hays State on March 3.

The project was made possible by over $300,000 in private donations and is the first component of a major re-imagining of athletics facilities at Emporia State University.

Mammoth Sports Construction was the contractor for the turf project. They began on February 6 with the removal of the old turf and the new turf was signed off on February 22.

The playing surface is just one of several projects at the Trusler Sports Complex. In addition to the new turf, an outdoor batting cage is being constructed, to be followed by installation of new lights at Glennen Field. These improvements were kicked off last year with the installation of a new state-of-the-art fence.

The new playing surface was celebrated with an official dedication in April.

“The new turf is a difference maker,” said sophomore Kadyn Williams, a third baseman for the Hornet Baseball team. “It allows us as infielders to get more reps at practice because there is no maintenance that must be done. The turf plays the same way no matter the weather or conditions, and we get the experience of playing on a big-league surface. I am glad I get to play on the new turf for the next three years!”

Emporia State is grateful for the generosity of these lead donors:

Harkness Family Cages

Harkness Family ■ Carol & William Hopkins

Eric & Charlene Hughes ■ Kevin Wempe & Ashley Dillon

Diego & Megan Soto

Baseball Turf

Ron & Judy McCoy ■ Mike & Lynn Fiehler ■ Tyler Beebe

David & Shawna Nehls ■ Mark & Jennifer Longhofer

Baseball Fence

Paul & Karmin DeBey

Interested in supporting The John ‘Doc’ Baxter Athletic Training and Human Performance Lab?

Contact Amy Piersol to discuss supporting the lab. To make a gift online, select 'Other' as your gift option, enter Baxter Lab in the 'Other' fund field and select the amount you'd like to give to the Together, Forward Campaign today.

Amy Piersol � Director of Development

620-341-6473 �

apiersol@emporia.edu

The new turf is a difference maker. we get the experience of playing on a big-league surface.

Coach Garin Higgins is Building a Hornet Football Legacy

A Spotlight on Hornet Football

With 148-86 record in 20 seasons as a collegiate head football coach with a 97-77 record in 15 seasons at his alma mater Head football coach Garin Higgins (BS 92-Psychology) ranks second in career wins at Emporia State. Higgins is just 18 wins behind Fran Welch, quarterback and later head coach for Kansas State Teachers College (1924-1954), whose name is on the football stadium at Emporia State University to honor his legacy, which includes 115 wins in 23 seasons as the Hornets’ head coach.

"Coaching in the MIAA, the best Division II conference in the country, is a true test. Coaching at my alma mater is a dream come true." said Higgins.

This season Higgins led Emporia State to a 9-3 record capped by winning the Farmers Bank & Trust Live United Bowl. It is the ninth nine-win season in Emporia State's 124 seasons of playing football, and Higgins has been the head coach for five of them. The Hornets were 11th in the nation in passing yards this season and ranked 20th in the nation in total offense, leading the MIAA in both categories. Defensively Emporia State allowed just 21.2 points per game, the lowest per game average since allowing 18.1 points per game in the 2003 season.

He is the 21st head football coach at Emporia State, was the first to lead the Hornets to ten wins in two different seasons and has done it in three seasons with three different quarterbacks. He has coached in more postseason games than any one in Emporia State history. He took his alma mater deeper into the NCAA Division II playoffs than ever before in 2015 as ESU advanced to the Super Region 3 Championship Game. In 2013, he became just the second coach to take the Hornets to the NCAA Playoffs and is one of just six Emporia State coaches to take the Hornets to a post-season game of any type.

He led the Hornets to within just one game of a post season berth in 2010 and 2011 before winning the Kanza Bowl in 2012 and was one win away in 2017. He joins Larry Kramer, Fran Welch and Bill Hargis as the only Emporia State coaches to have a span of four straight winning seasons.

Higgins is about more than just wins though.

"Coach Higgins has a proven record as a football coach, but as I have come to know him over this past season, it became evident that he is someone who cares a great deal about his players and Emporia State while managing all aspects of the program the right way" said Emporia State Director of Athletics David Spafford. “All of these factors played a role in providing Coach Higgins the first multi-year contract in Emporia State Athletics history. Along with upcoming investments in our facilities and the overall program, this is a direct reflection of our commitment to building a first-class athletic program that Hornet fans can be proud of for years to come."

The Hornets have been ranked in the top 10 among all Division II Football programs for their community service as recorded by the NCAA Helper Helper Report in each of the last five years, and won the community service "national championship" in 2021. In the classroom, Emporia State student-athletes have had a team GPA over a 3.0 for the last six semesters, and 15 straight semesters with at least a 2.75 team GPA. Last semester the football program achieved an overall team GPA of 3.10, while 50 players were recognized on the MIAA Academic Honor Roll, with a conference-high six players earning MIAA ScholarAthlete status for being named All-MIAA and having a 3.50 GPA. Emporia State has had eight Academic All-Americans under Higgins and is the only MIAA football program with an Academic All-American in each of the last seven seasons.

The combination of success on the field, in the classroom and in the community has translated to the turnstiles as Emporia State was ranked 22nd in the nation in average attendance last season. It was the 10th straight year the Hornets have finished in the top 40 nationally in attendance.

"We will continue to work hard each and every day to not only win football games but also to help our student-athletes grow and be successful in life," said Higgins.

Coaching in the MIAA, the best Division II conference in the country, is a true test. Coaching at my alma mater is a dream come true.”

Hornet Football is already gearing up for the next season and we hope to see you at Welch. Go to esuhornets.com to learn more.

Spotlight on Alumni

1970

William G. "Bill" Cordrey (BSE 75-Physical Education), Lewes, Del., was voted by the Cape High School Board to be honored as the new name of the Cape High softball field.

Terry W. Crawford (BSB 79-Business Administration), Shawnee, was the Sam E. and Jeannene Hayes Lecture Series speaker at Homecoming 2022.

Jay F. Fowler (BS 77-Public Affairs), Wichita, was inducted as a fellow of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL), a group of elite trial lawyers representing both sides of the Bar. Fellowship is limited to 500 active trial lawyers under the age of 70.

Trudy (Gruber) Hutchinson (BSE 70-Foreign Language), Emporia, retired after 44 years at Hetlinger Developmental Services, most recently as executive director since 1995.

Tom D. Leitnaker (BSB 75-Business Administration), Bella Vista, Ark., retired from East Kansas Agri Energy in December 2020.

John C. Lohmeyer (BSE 74-Physical Education; MS 77-Counselor Education), Kansas City, Mo., was honored alongside fellow former Kansas City Chiefs greats by the Third and Long Foundation at "An Evening With the Greats" in October 2022.

Mike (BSE 70-Business Education; MS 78-Business Education) and Carol (Reeves) Petitjean (BSE 85-Elementary Education), Emporia, were named 2022 recipients of the ESU Alumni Association's University Service Citation Award, which recognizes alumni and friends of the University who have made unique and significant contributions to the University, its students and staff members.

David A. Sherrer (BSB 77-Business Administration), El Dorado, was elected to the Butler Community College Board of Trustees in November 2021 and started a four-year term in January 2022.

Sandra J. Strawn (BFA 75-Theatre; BSE 76-Theatre/Speech), Hartford, Wisc., published the memoir and portfolio book titled "PAUL OWEN - A Lifetime of Designing Resident Theatre in America."

Dr. Scott D. Waters (BSE 78-Elementary Education; MS 81-Educational Administration), Emporia, was a 2022 recipient of the ESU Alumni Association's University Service Citation Award, which recognizes alumni and friends of the University who have made unique and significant contributions to the University, its students and staff members.

1980

Alice (Merrick) Bachand (MLS 85-Library Science), Clyde, retired in July 2022 after spending 38 years as a librarian, most recently as the youth services coordinator at the Frank Carlson Library in Concordia from 2012 to 2022.

Michael A. Ball (BSB 82-Business Administration), Olathe, retired from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) after more than 30 years.

Dr. Teresa L. Clounch (BSB 89-Business Administration; MS 96-Counselor Education), Hays, was named associate vice president of student life and dean of students at Washburn University.

Dr. Kenneth M. Coll (MS 82-Counselor Education), Reno, Nev., was appointed as board of directors chair at WestEd.

Joseph M. Hoefgen (BSE 86-Social Sciences), Long Beach, Calif., was appointed as Signal Hill's interim city manager.

Kirk L. Holt (BSB 85-Business Administration), Dallas, Texas, joined Ernst & Young in August 2021 as a client serving contractor in Credit Risk, after a long career at the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

Jane M. (Stinnett) Kelley (BSE 83-Business Education), Emporia, was named to an adviser "Wall of Fame" during the Future Business Leaders of America's National Leadership Conference.

Jeffry J. Larson (BSB 84-Business Administration), Emporia, was named chief judge of the 5th Judicial District.

Bert E. Luallen (BSB 80-Business Administration), Liberal, started a new position as the head girls golf coach at Liberal High School.

Alexandra (Benson/Elliott) Neubauer (BSE 83-Art), Greer, S.C., retired in June 2022 after 38 years as a special education teacher, art teacher and middle school assistant principal. She taught in Illinois, Florida and South Carolina.

Dr. Curtis B. "Curt" Pickert (BS 80-Biology), Las Vegas, Nev., was named chief physician executive at Pediatrix Medical Group.

Michelle L. Rich (BSB 85-Business Administration), La Salle, Ill., was promoted to CEO of Horizon House of Illinois Valley, INC. and was also named to the 2022 Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame.

John F. Schmidt (BS 86-Medical Technology), Emporia, received the 2022 Sunflower Health Plan Medication Therapy Management Champion Award from the Kansas Pharmacists Association.

John R. Warring (BS 83-Psychology; MS 85-School Psychology), Edgewood, N.M., is now working as a substance abuse counselor with opiate addicts in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Prior to this new position, he served 23 years in parish ministry.

Barb (Schra) Weaver (BSB 88-Office Administration), Emporia, won gold in the swimming event for her age group in the 2022 Kansas Senior Olympics.

Dr. Dianne H. Welsh (MS 84-Psychology), Greensboro, N.C., published a new book titled "Entrepreneurial Family Business: From Survival to Success" (Kendall-Hunt Publishing, August 2022).

William B. "Bill" Wolf, Jr. (BSB 88-Management), Manhattan, became a 2022 Iron Phi through Phi Delta Theta, Kansas Epsilon chapter, for raising funds for ALS research. Bill walked 240 miles during Lou's Olympics.

1990

Megan (Dillingham) Bannen (BA 96-Foreign Language; MLS 11-Library Science), Overland Park, published her third novel, "The Undertaking of Hart and Mercy," in August 2022.

Steven F. "Steve" Bushnell (BSE 91-Physical Education), Topeka, was a 2022 inductee in the Kansas City Kansas Community College's Athletics Hall of Fame.

Shelly L. (Johnson) Charter (BSE 96-Elementary Education; MS 02-Special Education), Independence, has taken a new position as principal of Winfield Scott Elementary School.

Peggy S. (Rathke) Fell (BSN 99-Nursing), Olpe, is a new nurse practitioner for CareArc.

Ronald L. "Ron" Frierson, Jr. (BS 96-Social Sciences), Los Angeles, Calif., became the new director of the western U.S. region for Amazon.

Erik C. Gratton (BFA 98-Dramatic Arts), Gig Harbor, Wash., is touring the world with Lonny Price's new production of "West Side Story" for the next couple of years. He's playing Krupke and directed the fights for the production. The production opened in Munich and will be hitting Vienna, Zurich, Dublin, Dubai, Tokyo, Monte Carlo, Bangkok, Paris and more for long stays at historic theatres.

Dr. Chad A. Higgins (BSE 95-Physical Science), Wichita, started a new position as executive director at ESSDACK.

Melanie J. Holles (MLS 91-Library Science), Albemarle, N.C., will serve as the new director of the Cabarrus County Public Library.

Sheri J. (Storrer) Knight (BSB 98-Accounting), Rexford, is the new vice president for business affairs at Colby Community College.

Craig P. Kuckelman (BSB 91-Accounting), Overland Park, was named one of Ingram's 250 Most Influential & Powerful Business Leaders in the Greater Kansas City Region for 2022.

Scott E. Lee (BSE 97-Elementary Education), Pointe Pleasant Beach, N.J., joined AYR.ai as chief revenue officer, headquartered in Princeton, N.J. He has also served on the board of Make A Splash, Inc. for the last 10 years, a 501c3 organization committed to transition and education for those with disabilities related to spinal cord injuries and to safety awareness.

Mark W. Majors (BSB 92-Finance), Meriden, was named one of Industry Era's Ten Most Innovative CEO's of 2021 in his role as chief executive officer at TDI Global Solutions.

Brian S. Meyer (BSE 96-Physical Science), Louisburg, started a new position as the physics and chemistry teacher at Louisburg Middle School.

Kenda R. O'Mara (BSE 95-Health Education), Emporia, received the Kansas Council for Workforce Education (KCWE) Leadership Award for 2022 for "Excellence in Teaching."

Brian D. Protheroe (BFA 96-Communication), New York, N.Y., started a new position as senior manager, leadership development at Criteo.

Kelly R. Smith (BSB 96-Marketing), San Antonio, Texas, became a new city council member for Garden Ridge, Texas.

Connie A. (Rosenholtz) Thompson (BS 92-Psychology), Fort Worth, Texas, is a relatively new Indie author of a 3-book series based on her own true story. Book 1 is titled "There Are: No Secrets," book 2 is titled "How High Do the Chiggers Jump in This Moment Called Life" and book 3 (coming soon) is titled "Lost Children Where the Wild Thistles Grow."

Carrie L. (Waidley) Wyatt (BSB 97-Management), Derby, is pursuing a MBA in Marketing at Wichita State University and has accepted an atlarge senator position with Wichita State University's Staff Senate. She was inducted into the TriAlpha National Honors Society in November 2022.

2000

Dr. Asaad Al-Saleh (MA 05-English), Bloomington, Ind., was chosen as an academic visitor at the University of Oxford, UK, starting fall 2022.

Elizabeth "Liz" B. (Hughes) Barnaby (BSE 08-Elementary Education), Salida, Co., was promoted to principal of Buena Vista High School.

Tammy L. (Pattison) Black (BSN 01-Nursing), Emporia, was promoted to medical director for CareArc.

Brent C. Bradbury (BSB 08-Accounting; BSB 09-Management), Omaha, Neb., will serve as a tax manager for BerganKDV.

Kenna L. (Bright) Burns (BIS 09-Integrated Studies), Burlingame, was promoted to housing director for the ECKAN Housing Choice Voucher Program in January 2022.

Emily M. (Hamlin) DeLoach (BSE 05-English), Garden City, was one of three people awarded the Crystal Apple in November 2021 for Finney County.

Kimberly A. "Kim" (Slater) Dhority (MS 04-Instructional Design/Technology), Reading, received the Kansas Council for Workforce Education (KCWE) Leadership Award for 2022 for "Exemplary Service."

Dr. Ryan H. Diehl (BA 04-English; MA 07-English), Hutchinson, Hutchinson Community College faculty member, was selected as the recipient of the 2022 National Collegiate Honors Council (NCHC) Ron Brandolini Award for Excellence at a Two-Year Institution.

David L. Ediger (MS 09-Educational Administration), Hillsboro, was named as the new athletic director of Tabor College.

Joshua P. Furnish (BS 06-Social Sciences), Paola, will serve as the industrial arts instructor for Paola High School, USD 368.

Andrea (Lantz) Gurney (MS 02-Health, Physical Education & Recreation), Schleswig, Iowa, is the new principal for Schleswig Community Schools.

Art L. Gutierrez (BSB 03-Computer Information; MLS 10-Library Science), Emporia, was named to serve on the board of directors of the Information Network of Kansas.

Dr. Jennifer A. (Conroy) Hanson (BSN 06-Nursing), Shawnee, has accepted a position as a sub-investigator/nurse practitioner for Dr. Vince Clinical Research in Overland Park.

Jennifer R. (Owen) Janzen (BSE 04-Business Education; MS 09-Business Education), Marion, family consumer science teacher at Marion High School, will also serve as a sponsor for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and sponsor for the sophomore class.

Lyndsey A. Kratzberg (BSB 06-Accounting; MBA 13-Teaching; MED 19-Teaching), Mission, started a new position as financial business systems analyst at Tektronix.

Bruce L. Lolling (MA 07-History), Haysville, received the 2022 Young Alumni Award by McPherson College.

Dr. Carl A. Lund (MS 03-Special Education; MS 05-Instructional Design & Technology; MLS 05-Library Science), Bemidji, Minn., received a Ph.D. from University of the Cumberlands in 2021 and began as an associate professor of professional education at Bemidji State University.

Ashley E. Mahoney (BSE 08-Business Education), Leawood, was named to the 2022 class of Women Who Mean Business by the Kansas City Business Journal.

Jessica L. (Winters) Meade (BSE 00-Biology; MS 01-Master Teacher Secondary), Paola, will be a new science teacher for Paola USD 368.

Darin L. Nichols (BS 02-Recreation), Independence, Mo., was promoted to operations manager for south central region at Marten Transport.

Natasha R. Oakes (BSB 04-Business Administration), Morgantown, W.Va., was named the senior associate athletic director and senior woman administrator for West Virginia University.

Eli M. O'Brien (BS 09-History), Wichita, an associate attorney at Monnat & Spurrier, Chartered, was honored by Best Lawyers in America for 2023 in the area of Criminal Defense: White Collar. This is the third time he has been named with this honor.

Mark J. Padfield (MS 03-Health, Physical Education & Recreation), Tonganoxie, was a 2022 inductee into the Kansas Athletic Trainer Society's Hall of Fame.

Matthew J. Ramsey (MS 02-Special Education), Atchison, has joined McDaniel College as the new Laurence J. Adams Endowed Chair in Special Education and coordinator of the master's degree program. In this role, he also serves as president and CEO of Target Community & Educational Services, Inc.

Darrin E. Sewell (BS 04-Psychology; MS 07-Clinical Psychology), Park City, was promoted to vice president of residential and outpatient health services for Saint Francis Ministries. He was also appointed as president for the Kansas Association of Masters in Psychology (KAMP).

Jesse B. Taylor (BS 01-Sociology), Emporia, was named deputy fire chief of the Emporia Fire Department.

2010

Linsey R. Albee (BA 18-Modern Language), Leavenworth, received a Master of Arts in Spanish to English Translation from Kent State University in May 2022. In November 2022, she started a fully remote position as project manager, translation & localization services at MasterWord.

Dillons / Kroger Card

Do you shop at Dillons/Kroger grocery or convenience stores?

If so, here's a great opportunity to give back to Emporia State University and the Alumni Association while you are doing your everyday shopping!

Simply sign up for the Dillons Plus Card/Kroger Community Rewards Program by visiting: https://www.kroger.com/o/storeservices/community-rewards

Jennifer L. Asbridge (BSB 14-Accounting; BSB 14-Modern Language), Wichita, was promoted to director of fiscal grant management and foundation accounting at WSU Tech.

Joslyn D. Barton (BSB 18-Marketing), Denver, Colo., started a new position as a sales engineer at Concentrix.

Ernesto D. Vizcarra Bedoy (BSB 19-Business Administration), Wichita, started a new position as an inside sales representative at BOSS Railcar Movers.

Sam B. Bland (BFA 18-Art), Emporia, was featured on the "Where's Shane?" segment for KWCH channel 12, Wichita. Sam explained the blow your own ornament process at Karg Art Glass, where he works.

Jennifer (Zemanick) Callis (MS 13-Offices Systems Management, Instructional Design/Technology), Abilene, was named the new vice president of instruction at Salina Area Technical College.

Alaina (Fairbanks) Case (BSE 15-Physical Education; MS 18-Health, Physical Education & Recreation), Mission, was hired as the head volleyball coach and assistant track and field coach for Shawnee Mission West High School USD 512.

Allison E. (Barnhill) Crofoot (BS 10-Psychology), DeSoto, started a new position as human resources generalist at the Children's Hospital Association.

Rachel C. Enix (BIS 15-Integrated Studies, MLS 17-Library Science), Wichita, was appointed as a representative of District 6 for the City of Wichita to serve on the Wichita Public Library Board from 2022 to 2024.

Jessica N. Evans (BSB 19-Marketing), Stilwell, started a new position as marketing coordinator at City Wide Facility Solutions.

Nick A. Gardner (BSE 12-Physical Education; MS 16-Special Education; MS 19-Educational Administration), Topeka, started a new position as principal of Ross Elementary School.

Nafiul Haque (MBA 16-Information Systems), Toronto, Ontario, Canada, was hired as senior business intelligence and reporting analyst at TD.

Heather M. (Robben) Hurt (BSB 12-Marketing; MS 14-Health, Physical Education & Recreation), Ada, Okla., was named interim head women's basketball coach at East Central University.

Nick M. Johnson (MS 14-Educational Administration), Fort Scott, was named the new principal of the Fort Scott Preschool Center.

Stephen K. Jowers (BSE 11-Elementary Education; MS 14-Special Education; MS 17-Educational Administration), Olpe, has a new position as superintendent of Madison-Virgil USD 386.

Emmalee H. Keck (BFA 10-Public Relations, Communication), Independence, Mo., started a new position as an account manager at Coach Mills.

Rachel S. (Rose) Koszalka (MLS 18-Library Science), Independence, was hired as the director of the Coffeyville Public Library.

Melissa J. (Mendoza) Laws (BS 15-Sociology), Hartford, started a new position as care coordinator at United HealthCare.

Sheena D. LeMay-Nelssen (BIS 12-Integrated Studies), Aubrey, Texas, started a new position as a substitute teacher at ESS.

Brett M. Logbeck (BA 18-Music), Shawnee, is a freelance musician in LA and was just offered the 2nd horn position with the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra.

Jerik T. Manring (BID 16-Interdisciplinary Studies), Wichita, was promoted to supervisor C&M at Kansas Gas Service.

Amanda N. (Ryan) Miller (BS 14-Communication), Derby, was hired as director of marketing for the Derby Recreation Commission.

Yukii H. Ntumba (BA 13-Communication; MS 15-Instructional Design/Technology), Framingham, Mass., started a new position as an associate director of comprehensive advising at Northeastern University.

Dr. Hannah (Shield) Osterhaus (BS 19-Biology), Las Cruces, N.M., graduated from Des Moines University Department of Physical Therapy in May 2022. She accepted a position as a physical therapist at a rehabilitation hospital in New Mexico.

McKinley C. Phillips (MS 16-Early Childhood Special Education), Great Bend, is the new director of Sunflower Early Education Center.

Kaitlyn E. Powell (BIS 18-Interdisciplinary Studies), Baldwin City, was promoted to director of student life at Baker University.

TAG… You’re It!

Alyssa M. Reed (MA 19-Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages), Lawrence, became an international student advisor at the University of Kansas in 2021 and began serving as chair of Kansas International Educators in January 2023.

Brandy M. Robben (MLS 11-Library Science), Evanston, Colo., started as the managing editor at Uinta County Herald in October 2022.

Annelise M. "Annie" Rockley (BS 18-Sociology; MS 20-School Counseling), Emporia, was hired as the new head softball coach for Emporia High School USD 253.

Ashley E. Sherwood (BS 18-Recreation), Wichita, was promoted to assistant recreation director of the City of Bel Aire.

S. Miles Shirk (BA 11-Music), Emporia, celebrated 5 years as a loan officer at Emporia State Federal Credit Union. Dr. R. Joe Sliter (BS 12-PreMedical), Wichita, has become surgical ICU medical director at Wesley Medical Center.

Blake D. Thornburgh (12-Elementary Education), Topeka, started a new position as a transition consultant at Advisors Excel.

Michaela D. Todd (BS 19-Communication), Baldwin City, was promoted to press secretary for U.S. Congressman Tracey Mann.

Megan Troxel (BA 10-Psychology; MS 19-School Psychology; EDS 20-School Psychology), Louisburg, is the new 6-12 grade school psychologist for Louisburg USD 416.

Justin M. Villmer (BSB 14-Accounting; MACC 17-Accountancy), Glendive, Mont., was hired as the new president at Dawson Community College.

Tyler M. Whaley (BSE 14-Elementary Education; MS 21-Early Childhood Education), Kansas City, was named a Blue KC Sporting Samaritan of the month in October 2022.

Teri L. Whitson (BSB 14-Accounting; MBA 17-Business Administration), Kansas City, Mo., started a new position as senior accountant II at Chickasaw Nation Industries, Inc.

Kevin G. Yarnell (MS 16-Health, Physical Education & Recreation), Minoa, N.Y., was honored with the 2022 NYS AHPERD (Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance) Southeastern Zone Amazing Person Award.

Natasha A. Zarnstorff (BS 12-Environmental Biology, Biology), Shawnee, started a new position as the water quality programs coordinator at Galveston Bay Foundation.

Jietong Zhang (BS 10-Economics; MS 12-Mathematics), Lancaster, Calif., started a new position as a math teacher at WuKong Education.

2020

Bethany M. Anderson (BSE 21-English), Sterling, started as a teacher at Fort Scott High School.

Mikayla A. Bowen (MS 22-Forensic Science), Center Point, Iowa, accepted a position as a forensic scientist in the toxicology section of the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene.

Francisco J. Bustos (BID 20-General Studies), Emporia, has launched a bin cleaning business while working as a supervisor at Michelin.

Lisa A. Cuba (MS 22-Forensic Science), Emporia, accepted a position as a technician trainee and phlebotomist with Labcorp, Inc.

Jarrod N. V. Fisher (BS 20-Computer Science), Derby, was promoted to lead software application developer at Koch Ag & Energy Solutions, LLC.

Captain Emily Lagarile (MA 21-English), Alexandria, Va., was awarded U.S. Air Force sponsorship to the Ph.D. program in International Relations at Georgetown University.

Courtney Medina (MBA 21-Business Administration), Fort Collins, Colo., was named the new women's softball head coach for Western Nebraska Community College.

Zulema E. Renteria (BFA 20-Theatre), Emporia, started a new position as a stylist at Maurices.

Former Students

Beverly J. (Olson) Buller Newton, was a 2022 recipient of the ESU Alumni Association's University Service Citation Award, which recognizes alumni and friends of the University who have made unique and significant contributions to the University, its students and staff members.

Angie L. (Fields) Miller, Emporia, received the Heartland Credit Union Association Professional of the Year Award for 2022.

Kenton R. Thomas, Emporia, celebrated 50 years working at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, currently as a licensed funeral director and embalmer.

Friends

Dr. Brent Thomas Emporia, was named Emporia State University's next provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Submissions

High-quality photographs are encouraged (JPG preferred) and will be considered for use. Entries may be edited for clarity or length and may be sent to alumni@emporia.edu or: Spotlight Magazine

1500 Highland St. Emporia, KS 66801-5018.

Hornet Heritage Award

The Emporia State University Alumni Association is proud to recognize legacy families with the Hornet Heritage Award, which honors a multi-generational family of ESU alumni and former students –families who have made Emporia State University a family tradition. The 2022 Hornet Heritage family was the Mayes Family. The Mayes family members have earned over 25 undergraduate and graduate degrees from ESU and have two current students. Congratulations to our 2022 Hornet Heritage family and thank you for making Emporia State University a family tradition!

To nominate your family for this prestigious honor, visit emporia.edu/ hornetheritage

Nuptials

Dylan Osterhaus (BS 19) and Hannah Shield (BS 19), June 4, 2022

Upcoming Hornet Travel Opportunities

The ESU Alumni Association has partnered with Please Go Away Vacations out of Great Bend, Kansas, for over 10 years. We are pleased to offer these exciting Hornet Travel adventures in 2023:

Births

Fisher Scott Brown, son, born to Eric (BS 11) and Ashley (Hill) Brown (BSB 13), September 1, 2021

James Vincent Schneider, son, born to Benjamin and Brandi (Siebnaler) Schneider (BSE 16), September 5, 2021

Braelynn Vaughn, daughter, born to Mike and Kayla (Fraley) Vaughn (BSN 16), July 1, 2022

Xander Denise Bruner, son, born to Calvin "C.J." (MBA 13) and Noel (Smiley) Bruner (BS 13), July 2, 2022

Theodore Charles Davis, son, born to Matthew and Ciara Davis October 27, 2022

Beckett Hayes Lane, son, born to Kellen and Lauren Lane, November 5, 2022

Makenzie Ochoa (BSE 20) and Adam Bridgewater, June 11, 2022

- Leaves, Lighthouses and Lobsters

Emily Hamlin (BSE 05) and David DeLoach, July 9, 2022

Brandon Hollembeak (BSB 98) and James Vail, August 6, 2022

Garrett Seuser (BSE 20) and Cassidy Doran (BS 20), September 3, 2022

Alaina Fairbanks (BSE 15, MS 18) and Kyron Case, December 17, 2022

Jaylene Strever (BS 15) and Dalton Ridder, December 23, 2022

For info on upcoming Hornet Travel opportunities, contact Laurie Pitman at lpitman@emporia.edu.

Evelyn Jean Ferguson, daughter, born to Nicolas and Amanda (Leadbetter) Ferguson (BSE 19), December 24, 2021

Bryce Samuel Carlson, son, adopted by Zach (BSB 12, MBA 13) and Jenny (Heerey) Carlson (BSE 13), February 11, 2022

Damien Ignatius Gianelloni, son, born to VJ and Ashley (Krase) Gianelloni (BSE 19), May 9, 2022

Rose Marie Howell, daughter, born to Andy and Kirstin (Heppler) Howell (BSE 21), June 1, 2022

Margaret Lynn Mossman, daughter, born to Mike and Jessica (Potter) Mossman (BSE 05, MS 11), June 6, 2022

Aria Jane Meares, daughter, born to Nathan and Jennifer (Felix) Meares (BME 15), June 25, 2022

Adeline Elsa McNett, daughter, born to Stephen and Kristin (Royse) McNett (BSE 12, MS 17), June 27, 2022

Evander John Carlson, son, adopted by Zach (BSB 12, MBA 13) and Jenny (Heerey) Carlson (BSE 13), July 8, 2022

Luke John Mosier, son, born to James (BGS 89) and Quennie Mosier, July 20, 2022

James Moore, son, born to Carson (BS 15) and Morgan (Mueller) Moore (BS 15), August 24, 2022

Carter Jay Luthi, son, born to Michael (BSB 13) and Julie Luthi September 2, 2022

Tadhg Eamon Barton, son, born to Patrick (BS 15, BS 16) and Aubrey (Hoover) Barton (BS 16), September 9, 2022

Jett Jace Talkington, son, born to Shawn (BS 15) and Somer (Schmidt)Talkington (BSE 15), September 19, 2022

Blakely Noelle Bornowsky, daughter, born to Jacob and Nicole (Smith) Bornowsky (BS 07), October 27, 2022

Brock Thomas McLaughlin, son, born to Brett and Joanna "Joey" McLaughlin November 17, 2022

Sign Up For Corky’s Crew!

Did you or a Hornet you know have a new baby recently? Then, sign up for Corky’s Crew! This program features special gifts for our newest members of Hornet Nation. To sign up, visit emporia.edu/crew

- America’s Civil War plus Three Rivers Cruise

- Majestic Mountains

- Best of Boston

ESU Retirements

Paul Bland, Americus, retired on August 20, 2022, after 22 years, ending his career as a professor in School Leadership, Middle/Secondary Teacher Education.

Martin Cuellar, Emporia, retired on December 24, 2022, after 22 years, ending his career as professor in Music.

Liz Diers, Melvern retired on August 20, 2022, ending her career as a lecturer in Accounting, Info Systems and Finance.

Connie Dunbar, Emporia, retired on December 9, 2022, after 35 years, ending her career as cashier in the Finance Office.

Rob Gibson Emporia, retired on October 21, 2022, after 14 years, ending his career as director of learning technologies in Information Technology.

Melanie Jones Olpe, retired on October 28, 2022, after 20 years, ending her career as director of customer service and engagement in Information Technology.

Fred Lackey Emporia, retired on December 10, 2022, after 42 years, ending his career as physical plant supervisor.

Susan Mai, Emporia, retired on May 28, 2022, ending her career as a professor in Communication and Theatre.

Patrick Martin, Emporia, retired on August 6, 2022, after 23 years, ending his career as professor in Art.

Donald Miller Emporia, retired on May 14, 2022, ending his career as a professor in Business Administration.

Armella Mitchell Emporia, retired on August 6, 2022, after 25 years, ending her career as an applications developer in Information Technology.

Melissa Reed Emporia, retired on August 6, 2022, after 17 years, ending her career as an associate professor in Elementary Education, Early Childhood, and Special

In Memoriam

1940

Norma J. (Lewis) Bletscher (BME 48), Rantoul, Ill., Oct. 28, 2022

Betty A. (Richards) Dunhaupt (BA 47), Topeka, Nov. 7, 2022

Melva L. (James) Engers (BSE 44), Desert Hot Springs, Calif., Aug. 13, 2022

Richard G. "Dick" Fuller (BSE 49), Topeka, Aug. 7, 2022

Margaret G. (Rowlands) Holzrichter (BME 48), Kearney, Neb., Oct. 7, 2022

1950

Robert D. Allison (BS 52, MS 60), Overland Park, July 6, 2022

Linn H. Blankinship (BS 57), Wichita, Sept. 21, 2022

Mary Keith (Riegle) Burns (BSE 55), Overland Park, July 27, 2022

Dr. David E. Circle (BME 58, MS 59), Overland Park, Aug. 10, 2022

Prudence C. "Prudy" (Scott) Clark (BSE 54), Granite Bay, Calif., July 13, 2022

Dannie K. Clodfelter (BSE 58, MS 63), Hutchinson, July 15, 2022

Doris M. (Lyon) Gloss (BSE 59, MS 63), Overbrook, Sept. 5, 2022

Education.

Gregory Robinson, Emporia, retired on August 20, 2022, after 11 years, ending his career as an associate professor in English, Modern Languages and Journalism.

Daniel Stiffler, Wichita, retired on October 15, 2022, after 8 years, ending his career as chair of School Leadership, Middle/Secondary Teacher Education.

Marshall Sundberg, Lawrence, retired on December 24, 2022, after 25 years, ending his career as professor in Biological Sciences.

Susan Zuber-Chall, Topeka, retired on August 20, 2022, after 10 years, ending her career as an instructor in Sociology, Anthropology and Crime/Delinquency Studies.

Gerald M. Carder (MS 68), Leavenworth, July 31, 2022

Dean E. Dellinger (BME 60), Valley Center, July 31, 2022

Dr. Larry F. Devane (BSE 68, MS 70), Oklahoma City, Okla., Nov. 16, 2022

Earl E. Dolisi (BS 68, MA 73), Saint James, Mo., July 24, 2022

Mary Lou (Frank) Doris (BSE 62, MS 66), Dodge City, Dec. 24, 2022

Sharon K. (Deyo) Drinkwater (BSE 63), Clermont, Fla., Oct. 1, 2022

Jerry D. East (BSE 68), Hutchinson, Nov. 24, 2022

Melba D. "M. Darlene" (Shoemake) Esip (BSE 61), Paxton, Mass., Sept. 3, 2022

Stephen H. Fielder (BSE 69), Longton, Nov. 17, 2022

Bonnie L. (Hertlein) Gieswein (BSE 67, MS 70, EDS 83), Herington, Dec. 30, 2022

Ross B. Hanks, Jr. (BA 65), Wichita, Nov. 10, 2022

John M. Hatfield (BSB 68), Fort Collins, Colo., Sept. 28, 2022

Russell E. Hodges (BSB 61), Lebo, Oct. 8, 2022

Florian N. "Red" Hofer (BA 60), Warrenton, Va., Nov. 20, 2022

John L. Holle (BSB 68), Madison, Miss., Jan. 26, 2022

Viola F. Gossen (MS 58), Hillsboro, Aug. 15, 2022

James A. "Jim" Hudson (MS 59), Warrensburg, Mo., Nov. 7, 2022

Carmen A. (Siebert) Huson (BSE 59), Bernalillo, N.M., Dec. 28, 2021

Doris M. (Wells) Lisenby (BSB 51), Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 8, 2022

Ida M. (Crider) Luse (MS 56), Great Bend, July 7, 2022

Martha L. (Jones) Nickerson (BSE 52), San Antonio, Texas, July 21, 2022

Cordelia S. J. "Corky" (Froetschner) Overfield (BSE 58), Omaha, Neb., June 19, 2022

Charles B. Reid (BSB 54), Salina, Sept. 9, 2022

Robert J. Seider (BSB 55, MS 61), Saint Augustine, Fla., July 24, 2022

Doris H. (Phillips) Smith (BSE 59, MS 64), Newton, Sept. 12, 2022

Earl D. Spatz (BSB 50), Topeka, Nov. 30, 2022

Robert E. "Bob" Volker (BSB 58), Dallas, Texas, Oct. 17, 2022

Mabel (Downer) Williams (MLS 56), Superior, Wisc., Sept. 24, 2022

Sue C. (Spears) Wilson (BSE 59, MS 68), Emporia, Nov. 16, 2022

Roy L. Young (BSE 59, MS 65), Wichita, Aug. 5, 2022

1960

Russell E. Alspaw (BS 66), Bel Aire, Sept. 29, 2022

Donald R. Baker (BSB 60), Fort Smith, Ark., July 25, 2022

Betty L. (Murray) Barnes Barker (BSE 67, MS 70), Council Grove, Aug. 19, 2022

Dr. Dale A. Bremmer (EDS 64), Hattiesburg, Miss., Oct. 1, 2022

Samuel L. Brock (BSB 65), Russell, Oct. 25, 2022

Mary (Van Nortwick) Brodie (BSE 68), Wichita, Sept. 11, 2022

Daniel D. Busby (BSB 63, MS 64), Winchester, Va., Sept. 28, 2022

Janet S. (Burden) Holman (BME 68), Prairie Village, Nov. 2, 2022

Patricia A. (Stout) Howard (BSE 68, MS 73), Kansas City, Mo., July 13, 2022

Evan R. Johnson (MS 68), O'Fallon, Mo., Dec. 2, 2022

Nancy C. (Keazer) Kastor (BSE 60), Reno, Nev., Aug. 6, 2022

Lois A. (Erickson) Kuchera (BSE 62), Topeka, Sept. 26, 2022

Jon A. Lander (BSB 64), Leavenworth, Aug. 9, 2022

Joe J. Lapping (BSB 61), Emporia, Nov. 2, 2022

Jerry N. Lee (MS 67), Elk City, Okla., June 23, 2022

Retabess (Northway) Ling (BSE 61, MS 67), Iola, Nov. 21, 2022

James A. "Jim" Long (BSE 66, MS 68, EDS 75), Lawrence, July 27, 2022

Beth A. (Mohr) Markley (BSE 65, MS 69), Leawood, May 11, 2021

John T. McConnell (BSE 68), Amarillo, Texas, July 24, 2022

Beatrice O. (Talley) McKindra (BA 69), Kansas City, Dec. 6, 2022

Freddie G. "Gerry" McPhail (BSE 65), Albert, Dec. 4, 2022

Glenda I. (Thorne) Miller-Failing (BSE 61), Lebo, Sept. 19, 2022

Paul D. Miner (BSE 67), Sublette, July 6, 2022

Carolyn S. (Schmidt) Moncivais (BA 64), Derby, Oct. 2, 2022

Cleofas F. Muci (MS 65), Wichita, Nov. 6, 2022

Leroy F. Munk (MS 63), Salina, Aug. 6, 2022

John B. Murgolo (BSB 67), Chevy Chase, Md., Oct. 25, 2022

Robert W. "Bob" Newton (BSB 67), Olathe, Sept. 9, 2022

John W. "Jack" Nork (BA 66, MS 86), Topeka, Nov. 17, 2022

Robert L. Oborny (MA 67), Dewey, Okla., Dec. 1, 2022

Lorrayne G. (Unruh) Pankratz (BSE 61), Newton, Aug. 24, 2022

Richard M. Parker (BSE 64), Independence, Mo., Oct. 19, 2022

Dr. Leo W. Pauls (MS 66), Emporia, Sept. 28, 2022

Ken R. Perry (BSE 62), Topeka, Nov. 19, 2022

James W. Pickert (BSB 61, MS 74), Emporia, Oct. 9, 2022

Ruth M. (Velzke) Poppe (BSE 67), Marion, July 12, 2022

William J. Ramsey (BSB 61), Kinsely, July 25, 2022

Arlen D. Regier (BSE 67), Hesston, Aug. 15, 2022

Evelyn Y. (Veal) Richardson (BSE 65, MS 69), Manhattan, Nov. 23, 2022

Dr. Jon G. Rogers (BA 60, BS 60), Huntsville, Ala., Sept. 27, 2022

Gordon F. Schadt (BSE 67), Anchorage, Alaska, Sept. 25, 2022

Donald E. Schifferdecker (BSE 64, MS 67), Winfield, Aug. 20, 2022

Beth L. (Mattingly) Schmidt (BSE 65, MS 94), Olpe, July 22, 2022

Phil Seibold (BSE 62), Castle Pines, Colo., Nov. 2, 2022

Marjorie A. (Buttron) Smith (BSE 62), Atchison, Aug. 30, 2022

Marilyn S. (Smith) Stowers (BSE 67), Lenexa, Dec. 11, 2022

Murray "Roy" Susskind (MS 68), Venice, Fla., Oct. 18, 2022

James K. Toburen (BSE 66, MS 69), Grove, Okla., June 30, 2022

Gwendolyn K. (Robinson) Tucker (BSE 65), Rochester, N.Y., Oct. 11, 2022

Theresa J. Turley (MS 67), Scottsburg, Ind., Nov. 16, 2022

Gretchen M. (Fagerberg) Turvill (MLS 69), Washington, Ill., June 30, 2022

JoAnn D. (Battishill) Wales (BSE 65), Perry, July 10, 2022

Bob J. Wesbrooks (BSE 63), Burden, Oct. 7, 2022

Patricia "Patty" (Roberts) Lusk Wheaton (BSB 62), McPherson, Dec. 26, 2022

Charles A. Willard (BA 67), Orlando, Fla., Sept. 16, 2021

Francis "Gene" Young (BSE 60, MS 66), El Dorado, Oct. 3, 2022

1970

James J. "Jim" Ahern (BS 72), Tolleson, Ariz., Aug. 12, 2022

Bradley L. Beard (BSE 79), Overland Park, Sept. 29, 2022

Ronald E. Bishop (BSE 72), Atchison, Aug. 10, 2022

Nancy (Desselle) Brandon (MS 75), Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 19, 2022

Thomas R. Burkholder (BS 71), Henderson, Nev., Oct. 26, 2022

Ruby L. (Patton) Butcher (MS 75), Emporia, Nov. 30, 2022

David J. Callaway (BSB 73), El Dorado, Aug. 5, 2022

Linda A. (Yeager) Cavanaugh (BSE 71), Loves Park. Ill., Oct. 31, 2022

Gary W. Clark (BSB 73), Saint Marys, Nov. 18, 2022

Robert E. Coe (BSE 71), Nashville, Tenn., July 2, 2022

Elwyn "Guy" Coffee, Jr. (MLS 70), Manhattan, Oct. 5, 2022

Craig A. Cooper (BSB 71), Cottonwood Falls, Aug. 8, 2022

Jay D. Dill (BSE 77), Kinsley, Nov. 17, 2022

Mary J. (Mills) Downing (BGS 79, MS 81), Emporia, Nov. 10, 2022

Paul

Aubrey Spohn (BSE 57, MS 58), Shawnee, Aug. 27, 2022

Edwin J. Thill (BSB 57), Sun City West, Ariz., June 27, 2022

Alvin L. Camblin (MS 67), Topeka, Sept. 27, 2022

Gary G. Martin (BSE 66), San Leon, Texas, July 22, 2022

Cheryl M. (Pettit) Matthews (BSE 68), Milford, Dec. 26, 2022

Shirley A. (Tindall) Shellenberger (BSE 64, MS 68), Topeka, July 27, 2022

Benjamin A. "Bennie" Sherwood (BSE 65, MS 73), Council Grove, Sept. 15, 2020

William "Rocky" Eklund (BGS 79), North Rolla, British Columbia, Nov. 22, 2022

Dr. Alice M. Emerson (BA 74), Jefferson City, Mo., Oct. 18, 2022

Be A Part Of ESU History!

Put your stamp on Emporia State history with a personalized signature brick in the Sauder Alumni Center patio’s Walk of Honor. Look for more information online at hornetnation. emporia.edu/ brick-program

Diane H. (Hollis) Falstad (MS 72), Altamonte Springs, Fla., July 27, 2022

Shirley B. (Johnson) Fein (BA 73), San Diego, Calif., Oct. 13, 2022

Ben B. "Ben" Flottman (BSB 70), Winfield, Sept. 10, 2022

Susan M. (McEwen) Freeman (BSE 71), Greensburg, Sept. 5, 2022

Joseph "Mike" Gerleman (BSB 75), Reading, July 21, 2022

Wanda L. (Regier) Gleue (BSE 71), LeRoy, Nov. 18, 2022

William J. Greene, Jr. (BSE 70, MS 71), Prince Frederick, Md., Dec. 12, 2021

Linda T. (Johnson) Gronquist (BSE 72), Alma, Sept. 30, 2022

Karen S. (Voss) Grossman (MLS 75), Bonner Springs, July 5, 2022

Rose M. (Burk) Gypalo (BSE 70), Algonquin, Ill., Sept. 5, 2022

Susan M. "Susie" Haake (BSB 71), Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 13, 2022

Russel D. Harder (BSB 70), Council Grove, Sept. 5, 2022

Dorine (Dilak) Harter (BSB 72, MS 73), Emporia, Oct. 24, 2022

Gloria A. (Grant) Hastings (BS 70, MS 75), Emporia, Oct. 13, 2022

Duane H. Hensiek (BSB 72), Bartlesville, Okla., July 4, 2022

Gregory W. Jacobson (BSB 74), Hope, Aug. 18, 2022

Dr. Richard F. James (BSB 71, MS 73), Baraboo, Wis., Aug. 18, 2022

Larry L. Johnson (MS 71, EDS 73), Jennings, Oct. 23, 2022

Patricia L. "Trish" (Maxfield) Johnson (BSE 79, MS 81, EDS 87), Council Grove, Sept. 14, 2022

James Burney Knott (BSE 74, MS 75), Manchester, Iowa, Aug. 22, 2022

Susan J. (Phillips) Kuhn (BSE 75, MS 91), Admire, Oct. 29, 2022

Regina S. Minturn (BSE 70, MS 75), Olathe, Sept. 1, 2022

Carolynn (Darby) Nellis (BS 79), Kansas City, Mo., July 14, 2022

Patricia L. (Stewart) Nelson (BSE 75), Ottawa, July 5, 2022

Ronald D. Perry (BSB 70), Lawrence, Oct. 2, 2022

Sandra K. (Beets) Purinton (BSE 70), Olathe, Nov. 2, 2022

C. David Ramsey (BSE 74), Marion, Oct. 8, 2022

Jerre A. (Laughlin) Sardou (BA 71), Overland Park, Nov. 30, 2022

Randall K. Smith (BSE 71), Overland Park, Sept. 20, 2022

Steve W. Taylor (BSE 77), Shawnee, Dec. 5, 2022

Orville W. Tharp (MS 71), Cuba, Mo., Oct. 27, 2022

Patricia S. (Gamba) Tonar (BSE 70), Omaha, Neb., Aug. 17, 2022

Judith E. (Greenwood) Totten (BSE 70), Osawatomie, Sept. 19, 2022

Linda C. Tweedy (BSE 72), Independence, Nov. 15, 2022

Cecil R. Vonachen (MS 75), Hutchinson, June 24, 2022

Jeanne A. "Toni" (Petsick) Waggoner (BSE 70), Oklahoma City, Okla., Dec. 27, 2022

Betty L. (Barger) Weatherholt (BSE 74), Emporia, Dec. 9, 2022

1980

Cyrus A. Dilak (BS 82), New Milford, Conn., July 16, 2022

Glenda M. (Smith) Getchell (BSB 81), Tulsa, Okla., Sept. 22, 2022

Carolyn E. (McCarty) Goolsby (MS 83), Tulsa, Okla., July 23, 2022

Heather A. Harris (BSE 83), Parsons, July 29, 2022

Bonita J. "Bonnie" (Unruh) Heinrichs (MS 83), Hesston, Aug. 14, 2022

David D. Jeffries (BGS 81), Olathe, Nov. 12, 2021

Mary E. (James) Kimble (MLS 83), Clearfield, Iowa, Nov. 26, 2022

Albert John "A.J." Koster (MS 84), Valley Center, Aug. 24, 2022

James A. Martin (BS 81), Shawnee, Nov. 3, 2022

Susan D. McElroy (BA 88), El Dorado, Dec. 11, 2022

Roger S. Moon (MA 82), Arkansas City, Nov. 16, 2022

James L. "Jay" Moore (MS 85), Paris, Ark., Aug. 17, 2022

Pamela J. (Ditlevson) Toburen (MS 84), Grove, Okla., Nov. 3, 2022

Doug E. VanderLinden (BSE 88, MS 15), Burlington, Aug. 9, 2022

Michelle Wessel (BSE 89), Council Grove, Sept. 3, 2022

Diana R. (Hawk) Wilhite (BSE 88), Emporia, July 25, 2022

R. Todd Wright (BSB 81, BS 81), Emporia, Aug. 6, 2021

1990

Steven E. Brown (BSB 93), Sabetha, Aug. 21, 2022

Randy E. Button (BME 99), Great Bend, Dec. 31, 2021

Clementine "Clemmie" (Wilson) Davis (MS 97), Kansas City, Oct. 11, 2022

Larry J. Kramer (BSE 94, MLS 01), Lenexa, Aug. 17, 2022

Jaime (Wechsler) McCoy (BS 99), Osage City, Sept. 13, 2022

Dee Anne (Witt) Mendel (BSE 95), Paola, Oct. 18, 2022

Ileen L. Meyer (BGS 92, MS 95), Emporia, Aug. 15, 2022

Laura L (Waring) Siddall (BSB 67), Overland Park, Sept. 1, 2022

Susan J. (Fricks) Smith (MAT 96), Hutchinson, July 5, 2022

2000

Melissa J. (Nichols) Bruce (BS 06), Bartlesville, Okla., Oct. 1, 2022

Lindsay D. (Mantooth) Murillo (BSE 09), Olathe, Sept. 13, 2022

Dr. Henry "Butch" Trabuc (MS 03), Allen, Nov. 18, 2022

2010

Lacy (Wykert) Bearden (MLS 13), Fort Collins, Colo., July 9, 2022

Adrienne D. (Qualls) Clevenger (MLS 12), Olathe, Sept. 27, 2022

David L. Norris (MS 13), Wichita, Oct. 18, 2022

Former Students

Linda J. (Ledford) Bacon, Denver, Colo., April 12, 2022

Ricci R. (Stinnett) Balkenhol, Emporia, Oct. 12, 2022

Steven W. Blair, Lawrence, July 29, 2022

Aaron A. Bura, Lawrence, Dec. 20, 2022

Lowell D. Chambers Emporia, July 6, 2022

Renae V. (Bailey) Colle, Hutchinson, July 26, 2022

Deidre A. (Pryor) Collier San Luis Obispo, Calif., July 7, 2022

George E. Dean Olathe, Sept. 26, 2022

Linda M. (Biehler) Dix Emporia, July 9, 2022

Rev. Billy Ray Harris, Choctaw, Okla., Nov. 23, 2022

Margaret A. (Becker) Jehle, Overland Park, Nov. 24, 2022

Irma (Eley) Kidd, Springfield, Ill., Nov. 8, 2022

Wendell E. Lady Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 22, 2022

Irvin D. "Irv" LeClear Emporia, Aug. 16, 2022

Donald V. Lindeman, Carson City, Nev., Oct. 15, 2022

Tony S. Love, Sr., Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 23, 2022

Bradley W. Mansel, Hutchinson, Oct. 5, 2022

Bonnie E. (Wheat) Martin Emporia, Aug. 2, 2022

Treva L. (Mallary) McCandless, Scott City, Oct. 27, 2022

Betty "Jo" (Taylor) McHenry Topeka, Sept. 10, 2022

James F. "Jim" Muckenthaler, Emporia, Aug. 14, 2022

Mary E. (Reaka) Nelson Lindstrom, Minn., Oct. 5, 2022

Dianne G. Patterson-Burns, Overland Park, Sept. 17, 2022

Audrey (Leonard) Penner Scottsdale, Ariz., July 6, 2022

Louis R. Pointon Chicago, Ill., Sept. 22, 2022

Troy H. Roberts, Olathe, July 19, 2022

Laura L. (Clark) Rongish Wichita, Aug. 21, 2022

David L. Rukes, Overbrook, Oct. 3, 2022

Janice R. (Redfern) Schulte, Emporia, July 12, 2022

Jerry R. Stephens, Oak Grove, Mo., Oct. 11, 2022

Robert L. Summers II, Wichita, Oct. 18, 2022

Chris E. Thomsen, Emporia, Sept. 13, 2022

Edna "Carol" (Johnson) Welch, Overland Park, Oct. 4, 2022

Gregory D. Wells Manhattan, Nov. 25, 2022

Friends

Dr. James J. Costello (ESU Retired Faculty), Topeka, Sept. 19, 2022

Dr. Thomas A. Eddy (ESU Retired Faculty), Emporia, Sept. 23, 2022

Dr. Gould C. Garcia, Emporia, Sept. 28, 2022

Maxine (Imthurn) Green Harrison, Ark., Dec. 1, 2022

Dr. Kenneth W. Hart, Dallas, Texas, Dec. 27, 2022

Ima Jean (Varner) Markowitz, Emporia, Sept. 8, 2022

Dr. Connie P. (Freeman) Mauney (ESU Retired Faculty), Brentwood, Tenn., June 2, 2022

Tom J. Poston, Council Grove, Nov. 9, 2022

Dr. Eric L. Trump (ESU Retired Faculty), Emporia, Oct. 25, 2022

Nominate A HORNET

Searching for — and recognizing — the best. You know them. Those brilliant people who make everything they touch turn into Hornet Nation gold. In fact, maybe you’re one of them. Now is the time to tell us about those people and give them the recognition they deserve. Honor them with a nomination for an Emporia State award or board position. Or, put your name in the hat for consideration.

Nomination Deadlines + Links

Distinguished Alumni

November 1 emporia.edu/distinguishednomination

Alumni Association Board of Directors

November 1 emporia.edu/boardnomination

Hornet Heritage Award

December 1 emporia.edu/heritagenomination

University Service Citation

December 1 emporia.edu/servicenomination