Spotlight - Fall 2023 - Emporia State University

For Alumni & Friends of Hornet Nation

Fall 2023

Focused on the Future Concept image

Calendar of Events December 15

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Graduate Commencement � 6 p.m.

W.L. White Auditorium 111 E. Sixth Ave., Emporia, Kan. Undergraduate Commencement � 9:30 a.m.

W.L. White Auditorium 111 E. Sixth Ave., Emporia, Kan.

February 2024 15 17

Founders’ Day Luncheon � 11:30 a.m.

Memorial Union, Webb Hall Together, Forward Campaign Celebration Memorial Union

Due to the possibility of schedule changes and adjustments, we recommend visiting the following websites to see the most current information on upcoming ESU and local events: Emporia State University 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

For Alumni and Friends of Hornet Nation Managing Editor Lindsay Thompson lthomp15@emporia.edu Design & Layout Ryan O’Meara romeara@emporia.edu

Contents 2

Securing the Future

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Innovating and Expanding Career Pathways

Teddi Davis (BS 2007) tdavis@emporia.edu

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ESU's New Nursing + Student Wellness Center

Contributors Lindsay Thompson Phillip Tutor

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Seizing Every Opportunity

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Career Jump Start

Emporia State University President Ken Hush (BSB 1982)

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Growing Toward the Light

Vice President for University Advancement and Foundation President Shane Shivley

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A Natural Educator

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

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The Together, Forward Campaign Enters Final Phase

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ESU Disc Golf Charges Forward

Photography Jordan Storrer jstorre2@emporia.edu Spotlight on Alumni Laurie Pitman lpitman@emporia.edu

Editorial Committee Jenni Denton (MBA 2016) Kelly Heine (BFA 2001) Shane Shivley (BSB 2000) Tiffany Wilson (BS 2010)

Director of Alumni Relations Tiffany Wilson Foundation Board of Trustees Chairperson Jason Fanning (BSB 1995) Alumni Association Board of Directors President Shirley Antes (BS 1969, MS 1974, BSE 1981, MS 1988, MS 2000) 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 Street, Emporia, KS 66801-5018, publish Spotlight twice a year.

Contact Information Spotlight 1500 Highland Street, Emporia, KS 66801-5018 620-341-5440

20 ESU Athletics Vision for the Future 22 2023 Service Citation Recipients 24 Spotlight on Alumni

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30 In Memoriam

Postmaster, send address corrections to Alumni Association, 1500 Highland Street, Emporia, KS 66801-5018 Volume 53, Number 1

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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fall 2023

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Securing the Future

Innovating and Expanding Career Pathways The School of Humanities + Social Sciences is building resources and tailoring programs for students

Dr. Ed Bashaw, dean of Emporia State University's School of Business + Technology, sees ESU’s burgeoning cybersecurity concentration and the new Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center (CyROC) as the perfect fusion of education and community outreach to help address several aspects of one of the most pressing issues of our time.

Cybercrime is on the rise and no business or individual is immune from becoming a target. Nearly every sector and industry has to contend with it. At the start of November 2023, there were 572,392 cybersecurity-related job openings nationwide, according to cyberseek.org. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has estimated that information security analyst positions would average 35 percent growth this year and that Kansas's cybersecurity jobs had a mean annual wage of $96,260 as of May 2022. The U.S. Department of Labor's long-term projection (2020–2030) shows a growth of 38.7 percent.

The expansion of ESU’s cybersecurity programs has coincided with this surge in demand for skilled professionals such as cybersecurity analysts, cybersecurity consultants, network engineers, senior software developers, systems administrators, cyber defense analysts, cloud security analysts, penetration and vulnerability testers and more.

“A lot of cybersecurity jobs are unfilled because there aren’t enough qualified people to fill open positions,” said Leticia Rust (BIS 14-BID/BIS; MBA 19-Business Administration), the director of CyROC. “Emporia State is offering students a cybersecurity education with remarkably strong career prospects and is helping address the current shortages of skilled professionals.”

Students have two avenues to study this fast-growing field at ESU. One is to seek a Bachelor of Science in information systems and analytics with a concentration in cybersecurity; the other is to earn a Bachelor of Science in computer science with a concentration in cybersecurity. Helping students understand the relationship between the global rise of cybercrimes and human behavior — with tactics such as “phishing” — is paramount at ESU. 2

“ESU takes a holistic approach,” Rust said. “It's not just how to build a firewall but how do you anticipate both technical and human vulnerabilities to protect yourself or your organization on both fronts."

An important component of the learning experience for cybersecurity students at ESU is the Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center (CyROC), funded by a $1.5 million grant from the National Institute of Standards and Technology and $1.1 million in ongoing funding from the state of Kansas. Located in Cremer Hall, CyROC will include lecture space and a stateof-the-art computer lab that will serve ESU students, as well as community members and middle and high school students with a variety of camps, retreats and other learning opportunities regarding prevention of cyber threats.

Following CyROC’s scheduled opening in January 2024, a crucial step will be developing additional local partnerships and public-private partnerships at a larger level, Bashaw said. Those arrangements will create awareness for ESU’s programs and, hopefully, improve the community’s safe cybersecurity practices.

“One of the many goals of CyROC is to create real-world learning opportunities for students through outreach programs with small and rural businesses that face the same threats as big companies, but don’t have the staff or the know-how to protect themselves,” said Rust. “Students can help them while gaining vital hands-on experience.”

“Our ultimate goal is to make this the best cybersecurity center in our region, providing students an ideal environment to practice and test their learning while also supporting our surrounding community,” said Bashaw.

Interested in learning more about our cybersecurity concentration and the new Cybersecurity Research and Outreach Center?

Visit emporia.edu/cyroc

The School of Humanities and Social Sciences is developing exciting new opportunities for students with the addition of new resource centers and more customizable degrees and concentrations. Amy Sage Webb-Baza, the interim dean and professor of English, says the school is maximizing opportunities for cross-pollination among programs, faculty skillsets and community partners so students can tailor their learning.

“In the past, students could do those things, but they were all extra,” said Webb-Baza. “You had this menu, and then everything applied that you really wanted was kind of the dessert. We looked at that and said, ‘These should be part of the main menu.’ For example, a literary arts student can intern at a publisher or press like Meadowlark Press in Emporia, and that experience is central rather than additional to their program.”

In one such example, the school is creating an engaging space that brings together a newly constructed audio/podcasting studio, a film and editing studio and the newly relocated Donald Reichardt Center for Publishing and Literary Arts. Located on the fourth f loor of Plumb Hall, this new space creates a hub for editing, publishing, literary arts, video, visual artifacts, audio and podcasting.

It’s a shift from a content-based program structure that was instituted in 1999 to one that is skills-based. It unlocks new possibilities for students and unleashes more of the skills faculty have to offer.

This multimedia production hub will serve students in programs like communication and the eight concentrations of the Bachelor of Arts in languages, literary studies and writing. These studios will also be a resource for students in programs across the school and university and for the community through partnerships with organizations like the No Coast Film Festival.

“We want students who complete our programs to have highimpact, applied learning experiences,” said Webb-Baza. "This happens across the school in programs like applied sociology and applied criminology, where student experiences can be as diverse as travel to Uganda, E-mersions experiences where they might travel with a faculty member or embed to work with specific communities and agencies in the state. There are also new tracks like communication’s emerging technology and the civic engagement focus in the new history and government program where students might work directly with local groups or sites like the Lyon County History Center.”

In addition to these new resources, the school is adapting its programs to make them more f lexible for students to easily tap into courses that fit their specific career goals. For example, students pursuing professional writing studies often have very diverse career goals. One may plan to become a medical writer, while another is seeking a career producing podcasts. Programs are structured so that students can more easily focus their attention on the skills that will serve them on their respective paths.

“We're looking for ways to do things more interdisciplinarily,” said Webb-Baza. “Our faculty have a broad range of subject matter expertise. We are like Swiss Army knives. We always have been, but our curriculum hasn't really allowed us to do some of the things that students need. Using creative writing as an example, the skills-based structure means students could complete this track in English or in Spanish. Say, I want a career in Spanish-language podcasts. I can pursue my Spanish proficiency and my writing proficiency because we have a Spanish professor who also has an MFA in creative writing.

But in the past, these pathways were locked in as separate from one another.”

Unlocking these pathways and creating these new resources are one more way that Emporia State is adapting to better serve students’ evolving needs and career interests.

If you know a student interested in a B.A. in languages, literary studies and writing, we offer eight concentrations for exciting career paths like copywriting, technical writing, social media management and podcasting.

The eight concentrations are English language and linguistics, English literature and culture, English literary arts and publication, English technical and professional writing, English as a second language and TESOL, Spanish language, linguistics and culture, U.S. Latino/Latin American literary studies and culture and multilingual writing and culture. Learn more at emporia.edu/llw fall 2023

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We Offer That!

At Emporia State University, we are focused on the majors and programs that will help students succeed in today's workforce.

Our new programs, new facilities and hands–on experience opportunities are built to help our students get the most value from their time here.

Majors + Concentrations Accounting* Art

Ceramics Engraving Glass Forming Graphic Design Painting

Art Education Biochemistry + Molecular Biology Forensic Science 4+1

Biology

Ecology + Biodiversity Fisheries + Wildlife General Biology Healthcare Microbial + Cellular Biology Zoology

Biology Education Business Administration*

Accounting Services* E-Commerce Entrepreneurship Financial Services* Human Resource Management Insurance International Business Management Marketing Marketing Communication Sales Management

Business Education

Graduate Degrees Chemistry

Biochemistry Environmental

English Language + Linguistics English Literature + Culture English Literary Arts + Publishing English Technical + Professional Writing English as a Second Language + TESOL Pedagogies Spanish Language, Linguistics + Culture US Latino/Latin American Literary Studies + Culture Multilingual Writing + Culture

Chemistry Education Communication

Communication, Emerging Technology + Society Leadership Communication Organizational Communication Public Dialogue + Advocacy Public Relations

Computer Science

Application Development Cybersecurity Data Science

Crime + Delinquency Studies Correctional Services Forensic Science 4+1

Earth + Space Science Education Elementary Education Elementary Unified

English Education Ethnic, Gender + Identity Studies General Studies* Health + Human Performance Health + Physical Education History + Government Information Systems + Analytics Business Data Analytics Business Information Systems Cybersecurity Analytics

Minors Accounting Art Art History Biology Business Business Data Analytics Chemistry Coaching Communication - Business Focus Communication - Liberal Arts Focus Computer Science Creative Writing Crime + Delinquency Studies Cybersecurity Earth Science Economics English Entrepreneurship Ethnic + Gender Studies

Interdisciplinary Studies* Language, Literary Studies + Writing

Mathematics Statistics

Mathematics Education Music Music Education Music Performance Nursing Physics Education Psychology Psychology Education Secondary Education Social Sciences Education Sociology

Child Maltreatment + Family Violence

Spanish Education Speech/Theatre Education Sport Leadership + Recreation Theatre *Online or on-campus

Teacher Education Programs Geospatial Analysis Health History Information Systems Integrated Marketing Communication Legal Studies Management Marketing Mathematics Music Physical Education Physical Science Political Science Psychology Public Administration Sociology Spanish - Modern Languages Sport Leadership + Recreation Theatre

Elementary Education (Grades Pre-K-6) Elementary Unified

Certification Areas (Grades Pre-K-12)

Art Health + Physical Education Music 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 + Space Science English Mathematics Physics Psychology Social Sciences † Spanish Education Speech + Theatre

Pre-Professional Programs + Program Paths Pre-Art Therapy Pre-Chiropractic Pre-Dental Pre-Law Pre-Medical Pre-Medical Technology Pre-Occupational Therapy Pre-Optometry Information listed on this page current as of 11/13/2023

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Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Pre-Pharmacy Pre-Physical Therapy Pre-Veterinary Athletic Training Forensic Science

Licensed to teach American History, World History, Kansas History, Civics and Government, Economics, Geography and Sociology. †

Master of Arts (MA) and/or Master of Science (MS) Applied Sociology

Community Leadership Criminal Justice

Art Therapy Counseling Athletic Training Biology Clinical Counseling

Addiction Counseling Clinical Mental Health Counseling Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Autism Spectrum Disorders Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Clinical Psychology Curriculum + Instruction

Curriculum Leadership Pre-K-12 Effective Practitioner Pre-K-12 Instructional Coach/Teacher Leader National Board Certification Pre-K-12

Early Childhood Unified Educational Administration Pre-K-12

Elementary Education

Forensic Science Biology Chemistry Criminalistics

Health, Physical Education + Coaching Informatics Quantitative Economics

Information Technology Instructional Design + Technology Instructional Specialist Dyslexia Elementary Content Elementary STEM Reading Specialist K-12

Mathematics

Statistics & Applied Mathematics

Psychology

Educational Psychology Experimental Psychology School Psychology

School Counseling Special Education

Gifted, Talented + Creative High Incidence

Master of Accountancy (MACC) Master of Business Administration (MBA) Accounting Healthcare Administration Information Systems Marketing

Master of Library Science (MLS) Academic Libraries Archives Studies Health Information Professionals Informatics Leadership + Administration Outreach + Community Engagement School Library Media Youth Services

Master of Education in Teaching (M.Ed.) Specialist in Education (Ed.S.) School Psychology

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Library + Information Management Informatics Information Systems Instructional Design + Technology

Graduate Certificates

Graduate Licensure Programs

Applied Statistics & Data Analysis Archives Studies Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Rehabilitation Services, General & Special Education Business Application Development Business Fundamentals Dyslexia Economic Education eLearning & Online Teaching Elementary Literacy Elementary STEM Emerging Technology Management Geospatial Analysis Health Information Professionals Informatics Information Systems Management Information, Technology, & Scientific Literacy Leadership & Administration in Information Organizations Marketing Mathematics Psychology of Learning Quantitative Economics Secondary Literacy Social-Emotional Learning & Psychological Well-Being Teaching with Technology Youth Services

Building Level Licensure District Level Licensure Early Childhood Unified B-K Early Childhood Unified B-8 Reading Specialist School Counselor School Library Media School Psychologist Special Education, Gifted, Talented + Creative Special Education, High Incidence

Our goal is for Hornets to walk across the graduation stage with a great job lined up, so they can immediately start building the bright future they’ve been dreaming of. Help a future Hornet get connected with Emporia State University and get started on their successful future at emporia.edu/referahornet.

Information listed on this page current as of 11/2/2023

fall 2023

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ESU’s New Nursing + Student Wellness Center Emporia State University’s Nursing + Student Wellness Center, scheduled to open in fall 2025, will be a three-story, 32,000-square-foot facility centered around nursing, healthcare and wellness.

The new facility will have state-of-the-art labs, learning commons and classrooms. It will also expand the ESU nursing program’s simulation training resources with the construction of a simulation hospital suite. In simulation labs, nursing students work with high-fidelity simulators that replicate real-life medical situations, allowing them to practice assessments, interventions and decision-making in a controlled setting. The new center’s simulation hospital suite will include emergency, adult, pediatric and obstetric simulation training labs and care rooms, providing nursing students with robust learning environments covering a broad spectrum of patient care.

The new facility will provide students with invaluable learning opportunities that will prepare them for their future careers as healthcare professionals. With hands-on practice, critical thinking development, teamwork opportunities and skill refinement, students will graduate from Emporia State University well-prepared to make a positive impact in the healthcare field.

The new facility will also be home to the Student Wellness Center, which will house on-campus health and counseling services for students. The ESU health center recently expanded to offer health services to ESU faculty and staff.

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 be a part of the Together, Forward campaign today.

Amy Piersol � Director of Development 620-341-6473 � apiersol@emporia.edu All images are concepts

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fall 2023

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Seizing Every Opportunity

Hectic days are normal. Coffee is her constant friend.

She’d have it no other way.

“It comes a little bit naturally. I'm naturally kind of a control freak,” Waltner said. “But school has always come easy to me.

That's the way my brain works.”

That mentality — always striving, constantly pushing — has long been Waltner’s guiding light. It’s who she is. Boosted by a work ethic that’s earned academic rewards, she exemplifies what’s possible for students who are laser-focused on their careers, both before and after enrolling at ESU. As a senior scheduled to graduate in December with a Bachelor of Science in nursing, her end goal of a medical career in Kansas City as a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) has driven most decisions she’s made.

Hailing from Hesston, Kansas — “a very small, classic Midwest town,” she said — Waltner took advantage of academic programs that started her higher-education experience years early. She earned her certified nursing assistant (CNA) and certified medical aide (CMA) certificates while in high school. Taking advantage of dual-enrollment classes at her high school, she earned 26 college credits before enrolling in college. When packing for the 75-mile move northeast to Emporia, she brought with her professional licensure, experience working in assistedliving facilities and early completion of a number of her generaleducation requirements.

The laser-focused attention on her career was underway.

“It opened my eyes, and I learned a lot,” she said of her CNA training. “It made me realize that I can do nursing. A lot of people come to nursing school without having CNA experience, and I think their eyes are opened a lot. But with CNA experience, you know the basics, and you can build on it pretty easily.”

Hailey Waltner laughs when explaining how her days at Emporia State University have been a bit of a blur. Whether on campus or off, her weekly schedule is a procrastinator’s nightmare, a maze of classes, work appointments and campus activities that requires a planner to keep her on track and on time.

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As this fall’s commencement approaches, Waltner doesn’t hide the glee over her debt-free graduation from ESU. She realizes she’s fortunate, given national trends that show the overwhelming number of U.S. students seeking four-year degrees who require loans to pay for education costs. In 2022, the average federal student loan debt was $37,388 per student, according to the Education Data Initiative. In Kansas, the average was slightly lower at $32,922.

For Waltner, ESU’s affordability, along with the highly ranked nursing program and how easy it is to get involved on campus, inf luenced her decision to select ESU over other in-state choices.

It’s a selection that has allowed her to benefit from the ample

scholarship opportunities available at ESU to qualified students.

Among her awards are monies from a Presidential Scholarship, the Kala Stroup Honors College Opportunity Fund and the nursing program’s dedicated scholarships like the Dr. Perry & Phyllis Hamme Hunsley Scholarship and the R.E. French Nursing Scholarship. Additionally, a Social Security benefit she’s received since her father’s death while she was in high school has kept student debt at bay and helped pay other expenses, especially rent on her apartment.

“Scholarships have 100 percent helped me not have to take out loans,” she said. “I'm so thankful. I'm graduating debt-free because of that.”

She’s also graduating with a lifetime of memories fueled by the same drive that propelled her academic pursuits. After the pandemic limited in-person activities in 2020, Waltner yearned for more campus life. She became a sponge, soaking up a dizzying array of experiences with a multitude of student organizations.

“I probably signed up for way too much, but I signed up for all the clubs,” she said, which isn’t an exaggeration. A Future Business Leaders of America member in high school, Waltner joined ESU’s FBLA chapter and earned first- and second-place honors in state and national competitions that included travel throughout the United States. She became an ESU Student Ambassador and earned membership in several academic organizations, including the national Blue Key Honor Society, the Honors College and Sigma Theta Tau, the international society for nursing. She was also nominated to ESU’s Homecoming Court.

But her career, and the ambition behind it, remains her priority.

Early in 2024, Waltner plans to take the required national licensure examination for registered nursing (NCLEX-RN) and begin her career, hopefully at the University of Kansas Medical Center, her dream location. Her long-range aspiration is to gain the RN experience she needs, two years or more, and enroll in a Ph.D.-level certified registered nurse anesthetist program.

She’s well aware that the manic years filled with ESU nursing classes, off-campus work schedules and student activities are coming to an end, albeit with a payoff commensurate to the effort she’s put into it. She’s excited for the future but thinks she may miss being a student.

“It will be bittersweet,” she said. “I've talked about it with family and friends. You go to school for your entire life, basically, up until this point now. It's going to be weird just going to work.”

Supporting scholarships is an investment in the future. You can help Hornets get an education that sets them on the path to career success. Join the Together, Forward campaign and make a gift to University Scholarships today.

fall 2023

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Career Jump Start

When a teenage Jaden Tredway realized he was talented enough to play collegiate tennis, he decided to go all in and nurture his skills. Passive efforts gave way to consistent practice sessions and delivered him to the men’s team at Emporia State University.

Now a junior, Tredway has made a similar decision — he’s forgoing tennis — to take full advantage of a career opportunity earned through classwork at ESU’s School of Business + Technology and a summer internship with an Emporia-based accounting firm.

It’s an internship, by the way, that’s already turned into a paying position with Wright CPA Group and is giving Tredway an early start on his career. This former Hornet student-athlete is pulling double duty by working in his field while simultaneously seeking his degree.

The opportunity to move into a full-time position with Wright CPA Group arose early in his internship.

“About three weeks into the internship, they said to me, ‘Hey, you're doing a great job. If you want to stick around after the internship ends and work for us in the fall, we would love for you to do that,’” he said. “I was extremely happy for that opportunity.”

Tredway credits Emporia State with connecting him to this opportunity and preparing him so well for the work. It’s been an enormous surprise bonus on top of the many features that initially drew him to choose ESU, like the manageable class sizes and ample one-on-one learning opportunities with faculty.

And as a highly ranked prep tennis player at Maize South High School in Wichita, he was also drawn to Emporia State because of the new Kossover Family Tennis Complex, the Hornets’ ultramodern indoor practice facility.

Tredway’s decision to work full-time while attending college is not rare among today’s college students. In fact, students today are pursuing an increasing number of work hours while in college. According to data from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, 47 percent of Gen Z students are working more hours than they have in the past.

What is distinctive about Tredway’s employment is that he is advancing his career aspirations while still completing his studies. It is indicative of the profound advantages ESU internships provide students to help them stand out among their peers.

It is also helping him pay for his education.

Because of scholarships he’s received at ESU, Tredway says his financial burden hasn’t been overwhelming, though he’s not immune to one of today’s most pressing concerns for college students — limiting burdens of post-graduation debt.

“I definitely had some debt freshman year,” he said, “and my sophomore year is about even. I had some great scholarships, so I was lucky for that.”

That comfort is allowing Tredway to focus on the present rather than worry about the future. At Wright CPA Group, he worked 30 to 36 hours a week during his internship this summer, and he expects they’ll reach 40 hours a week during the height of the coming tax-return season. If there are situations where his time as a student-athlete at ESU remains instructive, it’s with time management, he said. Combining his work duties with his academic schedule has made time management an invaluable skill.

As a tennis player, Tredway learned how to juggle practice time, travel, match days and meetings of ESU’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee with each semester’s class schedules.

Nimbleness mattered. His current challenge is to apply those lessons to this new scenario.

“I had to know how to do some (time-saving) tricks, like meal prepping the day before for lunches and dinners,” he said.

But, he still makes time for the things he enjoys, like working out.

“I like to just get away for one or two hours, clear my mind, get out some energy, and then I feel refreshed when I get back to the office.”

Tredway’s decision to work with an accounting firm while in school is prepping him for a future that’s already underway. It is also giving him the opportunity to evaluate what he wants most from his career.

“A goal I have is finding a company where the people are all super friendly, they all help you out,” he said. “I don't worry too much about the money, and honestly, I don't care too much where I live right now. I’m looking for where I feel I fit in and where I'm working now, Wright CPA Group, I definitely feel that. All the people have been extremely nice to me since my first day. They’ve trained me well, and they’re always looking out for me. Being in a strong, great community is a big part of my career goals.”

Real-world learning opportunities are a great way for students to expand their skill sets and graduate career-ready. You can help make these kinds of opportunities possible for future Hornets by supporting the Together, Forward campaign.

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fall 2023

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Growing Toward the Light

Any introduction to Justin Farrell must start with disc golf and Emporia State University, where the senior from Ottawa, Kansas, is a standout performer on the Hornets’ disc golf team.

In April, he helped the ESU Division I men’s squad come within two strokes of the national championship, an astonishing accomplishment for a first-year program.

This experience is just one short chapter in Farrell’s life story.

He is a student-athlete, yes. But explaining how he arrived at ESU and joined the Hornets’ talented roster is a circuitous and sometimes painful saga that includes serious health issues, an inspirational work ethic and a bone-deep determination to give his all to overcome his challenges.

The life lessons Farrell proudly carries have included hospital stays and surgeries. In 2011, he began suffering from daily “cluster” migraines while a student at Wichita State University.

They became such a problem he was forced to withdraw from school. In 2013, doctors discovered the cause — a growth on the bottom of his skull. It was pushing on his brain to such an extent it caused a seizure. Surgeons removed the growth and the migraines and seizures stopped.

As part of his recovery, Farrell began walking daily. It was on these walks that he met someone who changed how he saw his situation and shaped his future direction.

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“I met this older gentleman down the road who had a collection of pomegranates that he'd been sprouting for years,” said Farrell.

“He offered me a couple of them. Something about raising them affected me. It was seeing how well they overcome difficulties and how they can thrive through adversity. That spoke to me, to all the things I've had to go through and my desire to overcome my difficulties.”

Farrell had never even had a houseplant, but nurturing the pomegranates — training and cultivating them according to the bonsai method — sparked in him a passion for biology and botany.

It also informed his philosophy toward life. Inspired by the lessons of possibility and resilience he was learning from raising plants, he resolved to overcome his challenges and grow into the life path he wanted.

At the time of his surgery, he had no medical insurance.

Swamped in medical debt, Farrell took jobs at a Walmart distribution center and as a para-educator at a school in Pomona, Kansas. He worked “90-hour weeks” for several years to make ends meet and clear his debt. He also earned an associate degree from Neosho County Community College.

After five years, he was healed, debt-free and inspired. He enrolled at Emporia State to pursue a degree in biology full-time.

“Scholarships led me to be able to not only be a full-time student but also to just have one job and really focus on school and disc golf, which is great. It's a really big opportunity for me, and I couldn't be more appreciative.”

“At first, I was going to be a part-time student, and I was going to work two full-time jobs,” said Farrell. “But scholarships led me to be able to not only be a full-time student but also to just have one job and really focus on school and disc golf, which is great. It's a really big opportunity for me, and I couldn't be more appreciative.”

Farrell hasn’t decided quite what he wants to do after he earns his degree. He has a desire to teach in some way, but exactly what that looks like he’s still exploring. He has a dream of owning a nursery, and wonders if there might be a way to pair that with providing education about native plants. For now, he is seeing where his interests and curiosity lead him and enjoying the full student experience, including athletics.

It's rare for a non-traditional student to have the opportunity to be a college athlete, and it certainly wasn’t something Farrell had planned on when he enrolled at ESU. He first started playing disc golf in 2018. A lifelong athlete, a broken leg a few years earlier had forced him to give up basketball. In disc golf, he found a suitable replacement, a sport that requires skill and concentration and envelopes athletes in wooded hills and open spaces. With a hefty dose of serendipity, he didn’t learn that ESU was planning its first disc golf team until after arriving in Emporia. He tried out for the team, and within the year, he was competing at the nationals.

“Disc golf combines everything I love,” he said. “It's a puzzle, and it’s athletic. It's one of those unique sports where it's only you versus the course.”

It is hard not to be inspired by Farrell, both for all he is accomplishing and his perspective on life. His uncompromising and unf lagging optimism is central to who he is. He sees goodness everywhere, light over sorrow, even when there are plenty of reasons to give up.

“I try to learn from everybody around me and learn from the things that I've experienced,” he said. “I know I've experienced and gone through some things that not a lot of people have, and I've learned lessons that very few people get to learn. When you look at it from a thankful viewpoint, you understand how much you can grow from everything you encounter. It brings us back to the pomegranate and why I love botany so much. You see something so simple overcome difficulty after difficulty after difficulty, and still become beautiful and thrive.”

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A Natural Educator If it seems that Xavier Cason’s future is limitless and he can guide his career down any number of paths, there is good reason.

Cason (BSE 22-Elementary Education) was a standout athlete at Emporia State University. He can play the piano and saxophone.

Memberships in an array of fraternal and campus organizations cultivated leadership skills that belie his age.

Cason recognized he was entering a field historically dominated by women. For many of the students he taught, having a male teacher was an anomaly. He embraced the opportunity it presented him to be a role model, both for the individual students and in breaking down barriers that may prevent other men from teaching in elementary schools.

When it came to choosing a career path, he felt certain education was the best way he could use his multiple talents to serve others.

“The kids definitely connected with me differently,” he said. “So many of the kids introduced themselves to me. They were asking questions like, ‘Who are you? What are you doing here?’ There needs to be more males in education overall,” he said. “I didn't realize it until I actually got in it, but these kids want that male representation, and they respect it so much.”

“I want to help as many people as I can while I'm on this earth,” he said, “and I feel like there's no better way than education. You are literally shaping the minds of young children and setting the foundation for their dreams and aspirations and learning abilities.”

That desire is organic, Cason says, the result of having parents who worked in education and an aunt who served as an assistant principal in North Carolina. Because of Fort Riley’s proximity to his hometown of Junction City, Kansas, he enjoyed diverse classrooms, featuring students from all races and walks of life.

As he grew in age and stature, he discovered that educational pursuits and classroom environments fueled his ambitions. “I loved high school,” he said. Teaching, then, he believes, is his natural place.

“I’ve always seen myself as a teacher,” he said. “People are drawn to me in that way. People say to me, ‘You’re a great teacher because you break things down well.’”

Teaching elementary students, however, wasn’t his original plan.

Though a multi-sport star in high school, Cason wanted to teach music. He played multiple instruments and had marched in his school band. But scheduling constraints prevented playing football at ESU and joining the Hornets’ marching band, so his counselor suggested a detour to either secondary or elementary education.

“At first, I was thinking of secondary education, but I didn't know what I would teach at the secondary level. I was like, ‘You know what? Let's do elementary. We'll do that for now and see what happens.’”

The experiment went swimmingly. When he observed a fourthgrade classroom for the first time, he knew he’d made the correct choice. As a student who yearned to help young people reach their potential, he’d found his initial place in life.

“It was,” he said, “an awesome time. I loved the kids. That's when I actually decided to stay in elementary education because this is really fun.”

On the field, Cason became a standout offensive lineman for the Hornets’ football team. As a senior, he was named an American Football Coaches Association All-American and helped ESU to a 9-3 record and a postseason victory over Southeastern Oklahoma State University in the Live United Bowl. Off the field, Cason dove head-first into a variety of campus organizations and events that earmarked him as a student leader: the Black Student Union, Kappa Alpha Psi, Men of Excellence, the ESU Athletic Advisory Board and the Kansas Future Teacher Academy (KFTA), which provides high school students interested in teaching with a weeklong immersive camp where they learn skills from ESU faculty and recent graduates.

“It’s an amazing time,” Cason said of the KFTA. “They grow so much within those five days. It's not just about the technical parts of education, it's about learning relationship-building.

Because with teaching, you can't teach anybody if you don't have a relationship with them.”

Though his playing career is over, football remains central to Cason’s life. He loves the sport and follows the Hornets’ games online. When he thinks long-term, he can envision taking his leadership skills and desire to mentor and teach into athletics, perhaps coaching or directing athletics departments.

It isn’t lost on him that he’s accomplished so much in such a short period of time. He believes his support system has been an essential reason for his success.

“I try to be positive,” he said. “There definitely have been long nights, and I’ve had to figure out how to balance certain things.

I've been blessed with the support system that came from my friends, my teammates, my coaches and my family. It makes it so much easier when you have people there helping push forward.”

Cason is dedicating his life to providing support to help push others forward to their own success stories.

“I want to help as many people as I can while I'm on this earth,” he said, “and I feel like there's no better way than education. You are literally shaping the minds of young children and setting the foundation for their dreams and aspirations and learning abilities.”

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Emporia State isn’t just a highly affordable college option for Kansans.

We offer in-state tuition rates for incoming undergraduate students from anywhere in the lower 48 states. Refer a Hornet today.

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The Together, Forward Campaign Is Entering Its Final Phase

Together, Forward has received incredible support from donors, but during these last months, your gift can help us achieve even more!

The Together, Forward campaign will conclude on December 31, 2023.

Together, Forward began its silent phase on January 1, 2017. Its public announcement came in February 2021 with a fundraising goal of $50 million by Homecoming 2021.

That goal was met and surpassed, and a stretch goal of $75 million was announced.

As the campaign enters this final phase, we hope you’ll join us in building something special — an exceptional educational experience for every student.

Campaign Pillars ӹ Talent Awards — Art, Music, Theatre, Athletics ӹ Real-World, Hands-On Learning Experiences ӹ Scholarships

Top Fundraising Initiatives ӹ Nursing + Student Wellness Center ӹ Intercultural Center ӹ Corky’s Cupboard ӹ Welch Stadium + Track ӹ Trusler Complex ӹ Soccer Pitch

Campaign Impacts ӹ 12,362 donors made 61,446 gifts supporting 1,142 funds* ӹ $9 million+ for scholarships* ӹ $1.7 million+ for programs*

*

As of June 30, 2023

Be part of this historic moment for Hornet Nation Every donor and every dollar counts.

Make your gift today!

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ESU DISC GOLF CHARGES FORWARD With the apparent ease of a world-champion athlete, Eric McCabe assembled Emporia State University’s first disc golf team, led the Hornets to the brink of a national title and positioned them as one of the better programs in the sport.

None of that surprises him.

“That's always my expectation, to be honest with you,” he said.

“Even last year, not knowing what we were going to do or how well we were going to perform, it was always my mindset to go out and win and dominate.”

Which, they did. The first-year Hornets enjoyed an astonishingly successful first season under the tutelage of McCabe, the Emporia native and former disc golf world champion ESU tapped to shepherd its official entry into the sport. On a blustery April afternoon in Marion, North Carolina, the Hornets’ Division II men’s team nearly won the College Disc Golf National Championship tournament, finishing two strokes behind the University of Cincinnati after being tied with the Bearcats entering the final hole.

The lofty expectations McCabe took into his first season as the Hornets’ head coach haven’t dissipated. If anything, they may have intensified. This year’s 10-player team includes five returnees and five newcomers spread across the men’s and women’s rosters. One of those new faces is Isaiah Esquivel, a talented freshman from Emporia High School who already owns a junior world title.

“I wouldn't go as far as saying if we don't win the national championship this year, it's a fail on the year, but I expect to be in contention coming down the stretch,” said McCabe, an inductee in the Kansas Flying Disc Association Hall of Fame. “It's crazy to think that our team this year is better than last year. Time will tell, obviously, but just with Isaiah alone, he's one of the better players in the state of Kansas, let alone in the collegiate side of things.”

The Hornets’ quick ascent in this uncommon sport meshes conveniently with the city of Emporia’s well-earned reputation as one of the nation’s centers for disc golf. Emporia-based Dynamic Discs, where McCabe works as a course designer, manufactures competition discs and accessories and sponsors more than a hundred professional players. The city is home to an abundance of disc golf courses and national events. Additionally, the Hornets’ success has placed ESU’s brand alongside universities with sizeable public profiles and alumni bases, including Clemson University, the Ohio State University, the University of Missouri and the University of Texas, all of whom the Hornets competed against in the national championship.

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“The thing about disc golf is it's not just Division II schools that we're competing against,” McCabe said. “It’s all of these Big 12 (Conference) schools in our region that we're competing against.

And we had a lot of success this last season. It was a crazy year for us.”

The commitment ESU’s athletics department has made to disc golf can’t be underscored enough, McCabe said, given that the sport is often found on university campuses as a club activity that receives little, if any, institutional assistance. The city’s reputation and disc golf courses can be attractive to potential Hornets, but nothing is more important than the scholarship money and athletic department support.

THAT'S ALWAYS MY EXPECTATION, TO BE HONEST WITH YOU... IT WAS ALWAYS MY MINDSET TO GO OUT AND WIN AND DOMINATE." The mix of McCabe’s background, Emporia’s embrace of disc golf and the Hornets’ potential is allowing the program to attract skilled student-athletes like Esquivel, who is a homegrown talent, and others outside of ESU’s region — an example of athletics diversifying the university’s student population. In less than two years, players from South Dakota, Oklahoma, California and Illinois have been drawn to the program McCabe is building.

“I can't thank ESU enough for being innovative and doing something of this magnitude,” said McCabe, who still gushes over the sight of ESU Athletic Director David Spafford attending the national championship tournament in North Carolina. “He f lew to Charlotte, drove for about an hour up into the mountains and walked all day in the rain just to watch our guys and gals compete. Nobody else is doing that. That right there just shows you the dedication Emporia State has for this sport.”

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ESU ATHLETICS VISION FOR THE FUTURE David Spafford has big plans for Emporia State Athletics. Spafford spent his first year as director of athletics at Emporia State developing an expansive vision and strategy for the Hornets’ future, and he and his team are ready to execute their game plan. It includes becoming a Top 25 NCAA program, championship seasons, top-flight campus facilities, academic success for student-athletes and a financial structure that provides supportive revenue streams for athletics programs and facilities while assisting the university with opportunities to increase enrollment.

Since bringing his experience in collegiate athletics and development to ESU in July 2022, Spafford has created a multi-year master plan for the athletics department. His vision is all about taking everything to a higher level, including significant facilities investments and the evaluation of additional sports sponsorship. The goal is to improve all of the campus sports facilities, renovate the Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) building for ESU students and student-athletes alike and fund additional ways to recruit and retain high-caliber student-athletes.

Spafford sat recently for a wide-ranging discussion about his aspirations for the Hornets’ future.

What is your big-picture vision for Emporia State Athletics in the future?

“We're building ESU Athletics to be a Top 25 program. When our student-athletes walk across the stage to receive their diploma, we want them to have a championship ring on one hand, a diploma in the other and a job waiting for them as they exit the stage. That's the bottom line.

To do that, we need to invest in our programs in regard to scholarships, operations and facilities.

“My role is to remove the barriers and make sure we provide our student-athletes and coaches the resources and support they need to be successful.”

YOU CANNOT STAY STATIC, NOT IN TODAY'S WORLD. IF YOU DO, YOU SHOULD JUST AS WELL GO AHEAD AND HANG IT UP. YOU HAVE TO STAY FOCUSED ON WHERE YOU ARE GOING.”

Where will you focus your efforts regarding facility upgrades?

“We are looking at everything. Over the next five to six years, we will be focused on raising private funds for improvements to every facility to some degree.

Some of these projects are already underway. With Welch Stadium, for example, there are a number of things to address ahead of the national track meet in 2024. We're renovating the track, the throws and jumps areas and Gym A is being renovated with new flooring. We will install new lights in the stadium and new seating on the west side. In the long term, we are evaluating opportunities to add additional sports to our current offering. These decisions will impact our plan for Welch Stadium from the eastside seats, new turf and the press box.

“With the HPER building, we're looking at about a $12 million to $15 million renovation, which will impact our students' classroom experience and our studentathletes in regards to strength and conditioning, all of the athletic training spaces, locker rooms, academic learning and nutrition areas for them.

“For the soccer stadium, we are renovating the field now, but we are evaluating and comparing whether we build a new soccer stadium or move soccer to Welch Stadium.

From a fundraising perspective, are facility investments a higher priority than scholarships?

“It is all interrelated. You have to invest in your programs regarding scholarships in order to have the right people in the right roles. But you must also equip them with what they need to sustain a certain level of success. As you begin to win, more people are interested in our program and want to be involved. Success breeds success.

“The university's done a super job getting us set up scholarship-wise. We also have an in-state tuition program where we can recruit anyone in the lower 48 states now. That’s a whole new mindset for all of our coaches that we can go anywhere and recruit at the in-state tuition level. That helps on multiple levels when you start looking at your budget, your scholarship budget, the number of student-athletes you can have on a full ride or that equivalency that fits in their financial package. It’s a competitive advantage we have that we've never had before.

“This all puts us in a good spot today, but we have to look to the future and create sustainability with endowments, especially for scholarships.

“The facility improvements are a big part of this picture. Yes, they will provide benefits for our fans and, in many ways, the community, but the biggest effect will be on our students. Ultimately, these changes will go a long way in helping with recruitment and retention of students.”

One portion of this master plan incorporates revenue-generating uses for certain athletics facilities. Does that relate to the long-term financial stability of the athletics department?

“A key component is building facilities that will generate revenue to help them sustain themselves.

We have to be able to think ahead: If we build a new indoor practice facility, you have to pay for the air conditioning, you have to pay for heating and you have to pay for cleaning and maintenance.

There's a revenue component to every facility.”

How have fundraising efforts for these projects gone?

“I feel really fortunate. We have great support, and people want to figure out where they can help. Traveling the country this year and walking through some of this with people, I haven't had anybody yet tell me they wouldn't have any interest in helping at a level of support. They said once you figure it out, come back and see us, we'll see where we fit. You always expect something like, ‘Well, you're just dreaming.

This is pie in the sky.’ I didn't hear any of that.

“I think our athletics supporters have wanted to see many of these projects take off for a long time.

I get the impression there is a real desire to not only see this kind of change but to be part of it.”

There have been a number of coaching changes since you became athletics director and excitement seems high.

When you hire a new coach, are there attributes and experience levels you seek?

“The type of person we are looking for is somebody who has a number of years of experience, who has been at those championship levels and knows how to recruit, how to operate a program at those levels and be able to sequence things in place to get us to that level. We've worked really hard to find the right people to be in these positions, and we’ve been excited to see how much these new coaches want to be here, to lead their part of a Hornet transformation.”

Why is it important that ESU Athletics invest in facility construction, renovations and other areas in 2023 and beyond?

“You cannot stay static, not in today's world. If you do, you should just as well go ahead and hang it up.

You have to stay focused on where you are going.

“We are becoming more competitive. We are going to keep building on that and putting the processes and resources in place to make it sustainable.”

“At Trusler, we’re focused on renovating the fields and lights while identifying our student-athletes and our fans' needs and overall experiences.”

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2023 Service Citation Recipients The ESU Alumni Association’s University Service Citation Award honors both alumni and friends who have made unique and significant contributions to the university, its students and its staff members.

This year’s recipients were recognized during the ESU vs. Washburn football game on Oct. 14. They are:

Nick and Jan Laurent

Emporians Nick (MBA 90-Business Administration) and Jan Laurent’s (BS 85-Political Science) passion for building community and helping ESU students found outlets through philanthropy and hands-on learning experiences.

The couple recently contributed to ESU’s Together, Forward campaign. A portion of their gift creates the Nick Laurent Emporia Internship Fund, which, in partnership with the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, will place students in internships with local businesses that are compatible with the students’ skills and education tracks.

Another component of their gift enhances the work of ESU’s Studio E advertising collective, which offers a variety of marketing services to the public, while getting students hands-on experience in career fields, such as graphic design, marketing and public relations.

“College courses provide theoretical knowledge and active learning, but there are things you learn from an internship you couldn’t learn in the classroom,” said Ed Bashaw, dean of the School of Business and Technology.

Internships also give a pathway for students to remain in Emporia after college.

“The big picture is to make Emporia a better community. These internships do that by providing talent pipelines to Emporia businesses,” Bashaw said.

Mark Schreiber (BS 78-Biology, MS 81-Biology) of Emporia makes time to stay involved on campus and in the community.

He retired as vice president of government affairs for Westar Energy and has served since 2017 as the 60th District representative to the Kansas House of Representatives.

Schreiber served on the Foundation Board from 2011 to 2020 and is a Theatre Angel. He spoke to ESU School of Business and Technology students on the Importance of Sustainability and Leadership; sang, danced and acted as co-lead in a unique production of “White Christmas” for Veterans Tribute Week at Albert Taylor Hall; and was involved in the planning for the Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center (PAROC).

Schreiber also has been involved in numerous groups in the community, including chair of the Trusler Foundation Advisory Committee, chairman of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, chair of the SOS board of directors and as an Emporia Community Foundation Trustee.

He has served as the board chair for the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence, and as vice chairman of the Emporia-Lyon County Metropolitan Area Planning Commission. Schreiber graduated from the Leadership Emporia Class of 1996 and the Leadership Kansas Class of 1996.

The Laurents also set up the Dena Laurent Sorenson Career and Internship Fund and the Dan L. Scheller Scholarship.

He is married to Angie (Moreland) Schreiber (BSB 79-Accounting). The couple have two children, Ben and Gretchen. The Schreibers are members of the Didde Catholic Campus Center.

Nick Laurent, who for years was a pharmacist in Emporia, has been involved in the Catholic Campus Center and the School of Business and Technology’s Dean’s Advisory Council. Jan Laurent is a retired teachers’ aide for the Emporia school district. They are the parents of a daughter, Anne Butera.

Marvin Tajchman

Beth Paladino

Beth (Lewis) Paladino’s (BSB 79-Accounting) dedication to Emporia State is so deeply rooted she routinely traveled about 900 miles from her home in Royal Oak, Michigan, to attend on-campus meetings. She has showered her alma mater with generous donations of her time, energy, leadership and funds.

At ESU, she had been a student bookkeeper at the Memorial Union and was a member of the Accounting Club. After graduating in 1979, she began a career that ultimately took her to the position of accounting manager for Cargill. She retired from Cargill and now is employed by Craig Companies LLC. She was a member of the Foundation Board of Directors from 2010-2021 and is past board chairwoman and past head of the Trustee Development Committee.

She also is a member of the Kellogg Society, the President's Club, the Accounting Advisory Council and the Foundation’s President Search Committee.

In 2013, Paladino established the Lewis Family Endowed Scholarship in honor of her parents, John and Donna Lewis, for undergraduate students with financial needs. It gives first preference to business majors and second preference to education majors.

Paladino was nominated by ESU Alumnus Steve Williams (BSE 64-English, MS 69-Educational Administration) of Newton, Kansas. “Beth is a very involved Trustee with the University Foundation,” Williams wrote, describing Paladino’s commitment to the board, especially when she was chairwoman. “During her time as chairwoman, the Foundation continued to see significant growth in alumni support and Trustee involvement.” During her tenure as chairwoman, the board also made significant changes to the Foundation’s bylaws and operational procedures, Williams said.

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Mark Schreiber

Loyalty to Emporia State University is almost engrained in Emporian Marvin Tajchman’s (BSB 74-Business Administration) DNA. Tajchman retired in 2018 after a 46-year career at Tyson Fresh Meats. He has become the unofficial photographer for ESU athletics, and now is the recipient of the University Service Citation award.

“You can find him on the sidelines at almost all sporting events — on his own dime,” according to information in his nomination documents. “He often tags the Alumni Association Facebook page with all of his photos, so all alumni can enjoy” them. His photos capture his loyalty for ESU athletics.

This loyalty for ESU runs deep in his family. Tajchman’s extended family tree — the HolubVajnar-Tajchman family — includes 29 family members who received degrees from ESU and many more who were former students. They were honored as the Hornet Heritage Family in 2015 by the Emporia State University Alumni Association. The award is given annually to a multigenerational family whose alumni and former students have maintained close relationships with Hornet Nation.

This relationship with Hornet Nation can be seen through the legacy Marvin and his family have built. With sons, daughters, cousins, nieces, nephews and now grandchildren who have earned and continue to earn degrees at ESU, Marvin has instilled the power of the Black and Gold.

He was the youngest of three cousins — all grandchildren of Adolph and Lucy Holub of Marion County — who graduated from the university between 1962 and 1974.

“Recognizing Marvin, who has such deep ties to Emporia State, is a special honor,” said Tyler Curtis, former executive director of Alumni Relations.

Tajchman and his wife Carol are the parents of three children: Angela Yates, Jason Tajchman and Scott Tajchman.

To read more or nominate someone for this honor, visit emporia.edu/servicecitations

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Spotlight on Alumni 1950

Stan D. Roth (BSE 57-Biology, MS 59-Biology), Lawrence, was inducted into the Wall of Honor by the Olathe Public Schools Alumni Association in October 2022.

1960

Dr. Rainer Martens (BSE 64-Physical Education), Ormond Beach, Fla., was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor Class of 2022 at Emporia State University.

Lance L. Nichols (BS 67-Physical Education), Dodge City, was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor Class of 2022 at Emporia State University.

Roger A. Nowicki (BSB 67-Marketing), Billerica, Mass., retired after 32 years and four departments as a civilian contracting officer with the Department of Defense in the United States Federal Government.

Janet L. (Beckner) Roth (BSE 62-Biology), Lawrence, was selected as the 2022 Distinguished Alumni (out of town) by the Neodesha Public Schools Alumni Association in June 2022.

1970

John D. Burgi (BS 79-Social Sciences), Branson, Mo., was inducted into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in June 2023.

Jim R. Kessler (BSB 74-Business Administration), Emporia, was recognized with the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Diane A. Leupold (BSE 70-Social Sciences, MLS 72-Library Science), Topeka, retired after 45 years as media services coordinator at Topeka USD 501.

Jesse E. Nelson (BSE 74-Physical Education), Emporia, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2023 at Emporia State University.

Larry D. Rose (BS 79-Mathematics), Council Grove, was named Volunteer of the Year by the Council Grove Area Trade & Tourism Association at the organization's annual Black & Gold Gala.

Chief Judge (Retired) Merlin G. Wheeler (BA 74-Political Science), Emporia, was presented the 2023 Award for Judicial Excellence by the Kansas District Judges Association.

Ron E. Young (BSE 78-Mathematics), Lenexa, retired after 45 years in education.

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1980

Robert D. "Bob" Akins (BS 84-Industrial Education), Sanibel, Fla., started his 40th year in the plastics industry, encompassing roles in manufacturing, engineering, sales, marketing and executive management. He recently relocated to Sanibel, Fla., and maintains several major accounts in the medical, food packaging and automotive markets.

Pamela D. (Haselhuhn) Babb (BSE 84Home Economics), Independence, started a new job at Independence USD 446 as the family and consumer science teacher at the high school.

Carolyn H. (Shirer) Boyd (BSB 84-Accounting), Lake Quivira, retired after 38 years in accounting management, most recently as director of regional accounting at Associate Wholesale Grocers in Kansas City.

Diane Calvin (BS 80-English, MLS 81-Library Science), Muncie, Ind., retired as head of information services at Ball State University Libraries after 36 years.

Dena L. Diggins (BS 87-Recreation), Long Beach, Calif., was promoted to deputy director of community services for the City of Irvine, California. She was also inducted into the 2023 Austin High School Athletic Hall of Fame: Class of 1983, softball team first baseman and designated hitter.

Dr. Elizabeth "Beth" (Kalmar) Dobler (BSE 85-Elementary Education), Topeka, was named the 2023 Roe R. Cross Distinguished Professor at Emporia State University.

Bradley L. "Brad" Hill (BSE 85-Physical Education), Manhattan, is the new head baseball coach at Emporia State University.

Gregory H. "Greg" Kossover (BSB 85-Accouting), Tulsa, Okla., retired as COO from Equity Bank, but will remain on as a member of the Board of Directors.

Darcy A. Mikesich (BSE 83-Physical Education, MS 93-Counselor Education), Merriam, retired on May 31, 2022, from Wheatridge Middle School as a school counselor after 22 years with Gardner Edgerton USD 231.

New job? Recently retired? Newly married? New addition to your family? Need to update your information? Visit emporia.edu/alumni/request-information.html Dr. Curtis B. "Curt" Pickert (BS 80-Biology), Las Vegas, Nev., was promoted to executive vice president and chief operating officer at Pediatrix Medical Group. His second book in the Revelation Trilogy series, "A Little Book About the Truth of Life," was published in May 2023.

Dave L. Robertson (BSB 84-Business Administration), Wichita, was named co-CEO, alongside Charles Koch, at Koch Industries.

Kent A. Waltmire (BSB 88-Business Administration) and Mona (Wacker) Waltmire (BSB 88-Marketing), Topeka, received the Restore Champion Award from Topeka Habitat for Humanity in February 2023 for the volunteer work they do to support the Topeka community.

Daniel M. Williams (BSB 89-Finance, MBA 04-Business Administration), Emporia, was named the new controller for Lyon County.

Twila M. Wollenberg (BSE 88-Physical Education, MS 01-Educational Administration), Vassar, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2020 at Emporia State University and due to COVID was recognized in 2023.

1990

Tonya L. Barnes (MS 98-Special Education), Yates Center, was named special education director for Fort Scott USD 234.

Jill S. Beck (BSB 99-Accounting, MBA 01-Business Administration), Riverside, Mo., became chief financial officer at Cornerstones of Care in August 2022.

Ross R. Bjork (BS 95-Recreation), College Station, Texas, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2020 at Emporia State University and due to COVID was recognized in 2023.

Therese M. (Brink) Edgecomb (BS 90-Psychology), Lawrence, is now the principal of West Middle School at Lawrence USD 497.

Ronald L. "Ron" Frierson, Jr. (BS 96-Social Sciences), Los Angeles, Calif., became a new advisory board member for Global LA. LTC (Ret.) Charles W. Gregory (BS 93-Social Sciences), Monument, Colo., started a new job as a senior watch officer in the National Nuclear Security Administration's Office of Emergency Operations in Washington, D.C.

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

Herman T. Jones (BS 91-Psychology), Berryton, retired as superintendent of the Kansas Highway Patrol on July 1, 2023.

Edward A. Lee (BSE 92-Mathematics), Topeka, retired after 30 years of teaching in the Auburn-Washburn school district.

Rebecca L. (Summers) McGuire (BSE 97-Business Education, EDS 23-School Psychology), Newton, graduated in May 2023 with an EDS degree in school psychology from ESU and began a new job as a school psychologist at the Harvey County Special Education Cooperative.

Ryan L. Muhlig (BSE 98-Social Sciences), Colby, was named superintendent at Southern Lyon County USD 252.

Laura M. (Mayo) Parker (BS 98-Sociology), Topeka, was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor Class of 2022 at Emporia State University.

Ronald E. Scrogham (MLS 99-Library Science), Irving, Texas, was named dean of libraries and research at the University of Dallas Cowan-Blakley Memorial Library.

Tamera J. (Wietharn) Steinlage (BSE 90-Elementary Education), Goff, accepted a position as curriculum director at Vermillion USD 380.

2000

Marcela Bayon (BSB 08-Business Administration), Chihuahua, Mexico, was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor Class of 2022 at Emporia State University.

Abby A. (Otte) Bowen (BS 06-Psychology), Manhattan, was named director of human resources at Manhattan-Ogden USD 383.

Ryann N. (Morneault) Brooks (BA 08-History), Emporia, Emporia Gazette news and online editor, was named the 2023 Kansas Press Association Journalist of the Year.

Dr. Brett L. Bruner (BSB 06-Business Administration), Bel Aire, was named the new assistant vice president for student success and persistence at Wichita State University.

Steven S. Costanzo (MS 09-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Royalton, Minn., was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2020 at Emporia State University and due to COVID was recognized in 2023.

Bridgete B. (Isabela) Decker (BA 05-Sociology), Melvern, was accepted into the master of divinity program at Saint Paul School of Theology in Leawood. She will also be the Jones Scholar/Intern at The Hub Argentine for the 2023-2024 school year.

Sarah E. Elsen (BFA 04-Communication), Topeka, is the new executive director of Child Care Aware.

Trista L. Espe (BS 09-Crime and Delinquency Studies), Anchorage, Alaska, joined the Mayor's Executive Team as the community engagement director for the Office of the Mayor, Municipality of Anchorage.

Earl B. Givens, Jr. (BA 07-History, MLS 10-Library Science), Salisbury, N.C., was named interim vice provost at Catawba College.

Dr. Delton R. Gordon (MS 01-Counselor Education), Russellville, Ark., was elected president of the Association of College and University Housing Officers (SWACUHO).

Cynthia F. (Weatherred) Hadicke (BSE 03-Elementary Education, MS 14-Effective Practitioner Pre-K), Emporia, received her doctorate in educational leadership from Baker University in May 2022 and was promoted to senior director of implementation and client success at AIM Institute for Learning and Research in May 2023.

Matthew A. Howe (BS 04-Athletic Training, MS 06-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Emporia, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2020 at Emporia State University and due to COVID was recognized in 2023.

Dr. Charla Lewis (MME 08-Music Education), Guymon, Okla., was promoted to dean of the College of Arts & Education at Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

Martha A. (McMurphy) MacKay (BSE 04-Biology, MS 18-Curriculum & Instruction), Emporia, was named a 2023 Kansas Master Teacher.

Matthew J. Marasco (BS 08-Health Promotion), Leawood, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2023 at Emporia State University.

Ryan M. Martin (BS 05-Recreation, MS 07-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Hastings, Neb., was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2020 at Emporia State University and due to COVID was recognized in 2023.

David L. Register (BFA 04-Communication), Rhinebeck, N.Y., was the speaker for the 2023 Pflaum Lecture Series, with a topic of "Coaching Debate in Prison: Education and Redemption."

Cassondra J. (Boston) Richards (BSB 09-Accounting, MBA 11-Accounting, Business Administration), Reading, was inducted into the MIAA Hall of Fame in June 2023.

Matthew R. Tomc (BS 01-Economics, Social Sciences), Wildwood, Mo., was promoted to vice president of regulatory policy and energy supply at Ameren Illinois.

2010

Walker J. Ayers (BS 11-Sociology, BSE 15-Elementary Education), Emporia, was named principal of Logan Avenue Elementary, Emporia USD 253 for the 2023-24 school year.

Craig M. Barnes (BS 11-Health Promotion), Topeka, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2023 at Emporia State University.

Kristine A. "Kristi" Becker (BSE 13-Elementary Education, MS 16-Instructional Specialist), Tecumseh, received the national Milken Educator Award for 2023.

Logan M. Clothier (BSE 16-Physical Education), Park City, head football coach at Circle High School, was selected as the 2022 Butler County Head Football Coach of the Year. He is the first twotime recipient of this award. In addition, for the second consecutive year, Coach Clothier was a finalist for the Kansas 4A Coach of the Year.

Brooke K. Costley (BS 17-Health Promotion, MS 19-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Mexico, Mo., was named an assistant coach for Wichita State University's women's basketball team.

Jason A. Criqui (BIS 14-Integrated Studies), Anchorage, Alaska, was promoted to executive vice presidentchief lending officer at Northrim Bank.

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

fall 2023 25

Sarah Jo (Smith) Gardner (BSE 09-Physical Education and Health Education, MS 13-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Wichita, was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2023 at Emporia State University.

Dylan A. Geissert (BSB 16-Business Administration), Hope, was promoted to associate head coach for women's basketball at North Dakota State University.

Sarah S. Gietschier-Hartman (MS 10-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Ballwin, Mo., was inducted into the HPER Hall of Honor Class of 2023 at Emporia State University.

Angela M. (Mahan) Hazlett (BS 12-General Biology), Parkville, Mo., was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor Class of 2022 at Emporia State University.

Josh C. Honeycutt (BS 11-Recreation), Surprise, Ariz., was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Honor Class of 2022 at Emporia State University.

Rebekah "Bekah" S. Lane (BS 16-Biology), San Francisco, Calif., was hired as a cetacean field research specialist at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, Calif.

Molly K. Mansel (BFA 16-Art), Emporia, is the new manager of Designs by Sharon.

Kaila Mock (BFA 13-Art), Emporia, is the owner of Trox Gallery and Gifts, which received the Emporia State University Small Business Development Center's Emerging Business of the Year Award for 2023, on the heels of being named the 2022 Business of the Year by Emporia Main Street.

Brock M. Nehls (BS 10-Recreation), Emporia, was hired as the new head baseball coach at Hutchinson Community College.

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

26

Nicholas "Nick" Pfeifer (MS 16-Educational Administration), Joplin, Mo., was promoted to head coach of the boys basketball team at Joplin High School.

Brittney A. (Miller) Pitts (BSN 11-Nursing), Lees Summit, Mo., was inducted into the MIAA Hall of Fame in June 2023.

Lisa A. Prater (BFA 16-Theatre), Arvada, Colo., was promoted to broadway operations manager at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.

Cameron B. Schneider (BSE 12-Social Sciences), Edgerton, is the new assistant principal at Wellsville Middle School in Wellsville USD 289.

Tyler R. Sheldon (BA 14-English, MA 16-English), Baton Rouge, La., was awarded Louisiana State University's Humanities and Social Sciences Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award.

Meredith Snepp (MLS 17-Library Science), Topeka, is the new business and career librarian at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.

Kyle E. Thompson (BA 14-Political Science), Emporia, has become a new State Farm agent in Emporia.

Jeremy R. Truelove (MS 15-Educational Administration), Arkansas City, was named high school principal at Holton USD 336 for 2023.

Adam P. VanDonge (BIS 16-Integrated Studies), Topeka, chef and owner of The White Linen restaurant, was named a semifinalist in the James Beard Awards for the 2023 Best Chef of the Midwest.

Allyson E. Walker (BSB 18-Business Administration), Emporia, was hired to be the head of fundraising and development at the Salina Public Library.

Tayler B. Wash (BSE 15-Elementary Education), Kansas City, was hired as the director of special projects for the City of Emporia, Kansas.

Kevin J. Wempe (BSB 11-Business Administration, Financial Services), Kansas City, Mo., has become a director in the Kansas City office at Gilmore & Bell, P.C.

2020

Christopher V. Alejandre (MACC 21-Accountancy), Lacey, Wash., was promoted to senior tax associate at Anderson Business Advisors.

Cherie R. (Crouch) Crisp (BS 20-Crime and Delinquency Studies and Sociology, MA 23-Applied Sociology with emphasis in Criminal Justice), Emporia, accepted a position with the State of Kansas Department of Corrections in Emporia as a parole officer.

Annetta Flax (MACC 21-Accountancy), Minneapolis, was hired as chief financial officer for Kansas Wesleyan University.

Peter Georgiou (MS 21-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Norwalk, Conn., has been appointed director of athletics for Greenwich High School.

Rachel L. Gutschenritter (MS 20-Special Education), Neodesha, a fourth-grade teacher at North Lawn Elementary in Neodesha, Kansas, was selected for the Outstanding Elementary Educator Award

by Pittsburg State University's College of Education.

Portia C. Montoy (MLS 22-Library Science), Kansas City, Mo., was hired as the information services assistant branch manager at the Corinth Branch of the Johnson County Library.

Cyrielle Peyroche (BA 20-Political Science), Emporia, is the first female to be named the head coach of women's tennis at Emporia State University.

Marcos O. "Mark" Rodriguez (MACC 20-Accountancy), Fernandina Beach, Fla., was promoted to finance controller at Omni Hotels & Resorts.

Sarah R. Smith (MS 23-Educational Administration), Wetmore, was hired as the assistant executive director at the Kansas State High School Activities Association.

Former Students

Luke A. Barnwell, Wichita, was named assistant men's basketball coach at Texas Tech University.

Officer Jared M. Rowley, Topeka, was honored with the Exceptional Service Award for the Topeka area region by the National Association of School Resource Officers. Jared is a student resource officer in the Topeka Police Department serving Robinson Middle School.

TAG…

You’re It!

Show your HORNET PRIDE and support ESU student scholarships! All ESU alumni, students, parents, fans and friends who own or lease a vehicle in Kansas are eligible to apply for an ESU license plate! For more information, visit emporia.edu/esutag

LEGENDARY EMPORIA STATE COACH RON SLAYMAKER — YOU KNOW THE MAN, BUT DO YOU KNOW THE STORY? Read “I Raised My Hand: Slaymaker Reflects on a 64-Year Career Teaching Basketball” written by Pete Van Mullem. The in-depth profile of Coach Slay was featured in Sport Coach America. Check it out at

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.

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

fall 2023 27

Nuptials

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 2024:

Stephen Holbert (BA 19) and Kara Mason (BM 21), December 10, 2022 Camaron Edgecomb (BS 22) and Maddison Hayes (BIS 21), May 27, 2023

Births

Everly Mae True, daughter, born to Krista (Diedel) True (BSE 15) and Nathan True, March 21, 2022

Arthur Ramsey Gibson, son, born to Emmaline (Durand) Gibson (BSE 17, MS 19) and Dakota Gibson, April 4, 2022

Alaska Adventure Land & Cruise Combo July 23 - August 5, 2024

Millie Evelyn Mae Goodman, daughter, born to Daniel Goodman (BS 14, MS 16) and Rachel (Shepard) Goodman (BS 15), August 25, 2022 Kennedy Lamont Heincker, son, born to Mikayla (Beauchamp) Heincker (BSE 15, MS 21) and Kelly Heincker, September 8, 2022

Canadian Rockies by Rail & More August 25 - September 1, 2024

Maggie Jean Floyd, daughter, born to Colleen (Carr) Floyd (BSE 14, MS 20) and Andrew Floyd, November 21, 2022

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 2023 Hornet Heritage family is the Young Family, and they were recognized on October 14, 2023.

Congratulations to our 2023 Hornet Heritage family, and thank you for making Emporia State University a family tradition!

Mississippi River Holiday Cruise December 1-9, 2024

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

28

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

5

Bridget Willa Radiel, daughter, born to Rebecca "Becky" (Fraker) Radiel (BSE 14, MS 18, MA 20) and Dylan Radiel, January 13, 2023

6

7

Grace Sue Nunley, daughter, born to Michael Nunley (BS 09) and Angela (Blaufuss) Nunley (BS 09, MS 17), March 17, 2023 Kye'Lani Skye LeMay, daughter, born to Brittani LeMay (BS 14), March 25, 2023 Breck Harold McCarty, son, born to Cody McCarty (BSE 18) and Shelby McCarty, April 26, 2023

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

4

3

Taytum Turner, daughter, born to Craig Turner (BS 14, MS 16) and Cristy (Flippin) Turner (BSE 16, MS 19), December 13, 2022

Nolan Ryan Huth, son, born to William "Ryan" and Rebekah (Basore) Huth, February 16, 2023

Hornet Heritage Award

2

Daniel Willcott, son, born to Danielle (Hasenkamp) Willcott (MS 13) and Peter Willcott, November 12, 2022

Chase Louise Hogue, daughter, born to Taylor (Catterson) Hogue (MBA 20) and Quinton Hogue, December 7, 2022

Leaves, Lighthouses & Lobsters October 19-26, 2024

1

Noah Matthew Blades, son, born to Raechel (Lockhart) Blades (BSN 12) and Spencer Blades, April 27, 2023 Koger Whit Lauer, son, born to Karly (Whitmore) Lauer (BSN 18) and James Lauer, May 25, 2023 Callen Joseph Litvak, son, born to Aaron Litvak (BSE 13, MS 17) and Rebecca (Mahon) Litvak (BSE 14, MS 19), June 7, 2023

8

9

10 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. And, be on the lookout for exciting news on the expansion of this program!

To sign up, visit emporia.edu/crew

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

fall 2023 29

ESU Retirements Edward Brooks, Emporia, retired on May 31, 2023, after 20 years, ending his career as a building system landscape technician in the Building Maintenance department.

Sheryl Lidzy, Emporia, retired on May 16, 2023, after 17 years, ending her career as an associate professor in the Communication and Theatre department.

Evandro Camara, Emporia, retired on May 16, 2023, after 30 years, ending his career as a professor in the Social Sciences/Sociology/ Criminology department.

Lori Mann, Emporia, retired on May 13, 2023, after 32 years, ending her career as an associate professor in the Elementary Education/Early Childhood, and Special Education department.

Roberta Eichenberg, Emporia, retired on May 13, 2023, after 20 years, ending her career as a professor in the Art department.

Larry Falcetto, Olathe, retired on May 13, 2023, after 46 years, ending his career as an associate professor in the Accounting, Information Systems, and Finance department.

Dianne Graves, Eureka, retired on January 7, 2023, after 12 years, ending her career as the director of data management in Information Technology.

Christopher Haag, Hartford, retired on May 15, 2023, after 4 years, ending his career as a building systems technician in the Building Maintenance department.

Marvin Harrell, Shawnee, retired on May 13, 2023, after 22 years, ending his career as an assistant professor in the Mathematics and Economics department.

Lynn Hobson, Emporia, retired on June 10, 2023, after 33 years, ending her career as dean of students.

Andrew Houchins, Emporia, retired on May 13, 2023, after 24 years, ending his career as a professor in the Music department.

Annie Opat, Junction City, retired on June 10, 2023, after 23 years, ending her career as director of the Reading Recovery program.

Cynthia Patton, Emporia, retired on May 13, 2023, after 22 years, ending her career as an associate professor in the English, Modern Languages, and Journalism department.

James Persinger, Lawrence, retired on June 10, 2023, after 23 years, ending his career as a professor in the Psychology department.

Connie Phelps, Emporia, retired on May 13, 2023, after 18 years, ending her career as a professor in the Elementary Education/ Early Childhood, and Special Education department.

Taime Pitchford, Emporia, retired on April 3, 2023, after 22 years, ending her career as assistant to the Human Resources director.

Sharon Pittman, Cottonwood Falls, retired on March 18, 2023, after 11 years, ending her career as an administrative specialist in the Elementary Education/Early Childhood, and Special Education department.

In Memoriam

Carol Russell, Emporia, retired on May 13, 2023, after 26 years, ending her career as a professor in the Elementary Education/ Early Childhood, and Special Education department.

Christy Schreck, Emporia, retired on July 8, 2023, after 41 years, ending her career as an institutional research analyst in Institutional Effectiveness.

Rachelle Smith, Emporia, retired on May 16, 2023, after 27 years, ending her career as a professor in the English, Modern Language, and Journalism department.

Penelope Speedie, Emporia, retired on May 16, 2023, after 36 years, ending her career as an associate professor in the Music department.

Les Stafford, Wichita, retired on January 7, 2023, after 3 years, ending his career as tennis coach in Intercollegiate Athletics.

Nancy Standiferd, Lebo, retired on January 7, 2023, after 26 years, ending her career as an administrative specialist in the Memorial Union.

Melvin Storm, Emporia, retired on May 16, 2023, after 51 years, ending his career as a professor in the English, Modern Language, and Journalism department.

Keith E. Flohrschutz (BSE 59, MS 61), Salina, Jan. 10, 2023

Vickey Mai Beck (BS 59), Altoona, Iowa, Jan. 17, 2023

Charles D. Freeman (BSB 53), Wichita, June 30, 2023

Anna L. (Heth) Brown (BS 47), Quinter, April 20, 2023

Reece C. Bohannon (BS 56), Wichita, March 9, 2023

Fred K. French (BSB 59), Hermitage, Tenn., Jan. 23, 2023

Vernon R. "Vern" Duncan (BSE 49), Olympia Fields, Ill., April 6, 2023

Paul D. "Del" Brinkman (BS 58), Lenexa, Feb. 19, 2023

George R. Gibbs (BSE 58), Yucca Valley, Calif., March 4, 2023

Margaret H. (Lunt) Hoagland (BSE 43), Larned, June 23, 2014

Wilma J. (Pennington) Clayton (BSE 54), Englewood, Colo., April 1, 2023

John H. Goetze (BSB 55), Bristow, Va., April 22, 2023

Dr. Harry F. Liggett (BSE 49), Edmond, Okla., April 27, 2023

Mary E. (Gunzelman) Colaw (MS 53), Saint Charles, Mo., April 17, 2023

Eugene M. Gregg (BSE 55), Monkey Island, Okla., Feb. 24, 2023

1950

Esther M. (Zimmerman) Errebo (BSE 50), Salina, June 18, 2023

Maxine R. (McFerrin) Haggerty (MLS 59), Salt Lake City, Utah, May 19, 2023

Margaret B. (Berthot) Hollenshead (BSE 31, MS 69), Chanute, April 28, 2023

1940

Oliver R. Anderson (BS 53, MS 54), Wichita, June 3, 2023 30

Dr. James L. "Jim" Brown (BS 67, MS 68), Painesville, Ohio, Feb. 6, 2023

Dr. Thomas E. Metz (BA 64), Kansas City, Mo., March 3, 2023

Donald K. Haynes (BSE 50, MS 55), Catonsville, Md., Jan. 29, 2023

David P. Calvert (BSB 63), Wichita, June 30, 2023

Donald J. Minnis (BSB 69), Lawrence, March 9, 2023

Dr. Charles R. "Charlie" Hill (BSE 50, MA 56), Emporia, June 28, 2023

George K. Charlsen (BA 61), Wichita, Jan. 10, 2023

Dale W. Mowbray (BSB 60), Saint Peter, Minn., Feb. 8, 2023

Caroline L. (Soule) Hopkins (BSE 58), Olathe, June 6, 2023

Carl D. Chatfield (MS 66), Saint Joseph, Mo., March 30, 2023

Janet G. (Eperson) Nichols (BSE 65, MS 89), Lenexa, May 8, 2023

Jean I. (Pykiet) Kraus (BSE 57), Council Grove, April 13, 2023

Millard "Gene" Countryman (MA 62), Wichita, April 12, 2023

Phyllis A. (Harold) O'Connor (BSE 65), Shawnee, Dec. 25, 2022

Clinton D. Lacock (BSE 59, MA 66), Tulare, Calif., April 2, 2023

John S. Crum (BSE 62, MS 65), Holton, Nov. 8, 2021

Ronald V. Odette (BSE 67), Concordia, Dec. 18, 2022

Donna D. (Minnis) Lacock (BSE 59), Tulare, Calif., Dec. 16, 2022

Thomas M. Dixon (BSB 67), Prairie Village, May 2, 2023

Patricia D. (Donovan) Olson (BSE 67, MS 74), Hutchinson, April 25, 2023

Marilyn R. (Wren) Nordeen (BSE 51), Ottawa, April 20, 2023

Donald E. Dorrel (BSB 69), Lenexa, June 14, 2023

Gary L. Ott (BSB 68), Wichita, Jan. 20, 2023

James D. Palmer (BSE 54, MS 57), Tucson, Ariz., March 16, 2023

Rev. Thomas Neufer Emswiler (BA 63), Champaign, Ill., Feb. 21, 2023

Doyle E. Powell (BSE 50), Broken Arrow, Okla., April 17, 2023

Mildred E. (McAuley) Fall (BSE 66), Wichita, Feb. 5, 2023

Calvin C. Rice (BSE 51, MS 57), Lenexa, Dec. 31, 2022

Clifford W. Ferrell (BSE 65), Linwood, April 5, 2023

Josephine A. "Jo" (Bloxom) Scharff (BME 50, MS 60), Halstead, March 27, 2023

Keith "K.O." Fuller (MS 66), McPherson, June 1, 2023

Donald E. Schiesser (BA 57), Emporia, May 18, 2023

Donald R. Gempler (BSE 67), Bella Vista, Ark., Dec. 30, 2022

Harlan K. Spatz (BSB 55), Overland Park, May 22, 2023

John C. Goodlin (BSE 62), New London, N.H., Jan. 31, 2023

Stephen "Jerry" St. John (BSB 58), Shawnee, April 8, 2023

Janice (Zerener) Green-Reno (BSE 61), Garden Plain, June 15, 2023

Dr. Bill Tidwell (BSE 57, MS 58), Emporia, March 16, 2023

Anita "Kay" (Patterson) Groh (BSE 66), Emporia, Dec. 29, 2022

Richard H. Wagner (BA 58), Kansas City, April 20, 2023

Lonnie G. Hays (BSE 66, MS 74), Wellington, March 13, 2023

Dr. James W. Wilson (BSE 58, MS 70), Danielsville, Ga., Dec. 20, 2022

Norbert E. Hermes (MS 66), Salina, Jan. 23, 2023

Raymond H. Zingler (BSE 57), Loris, S.C., May 11, 2023

Charles G. Holloran (BSB 60), Garnett, Dec. 26, 2022

1960

Phyllis J. Kingsbury (BSE 60, MS 63), Des Moines, Iowa, May 12, 2023

Ramona J. (Venable) Anshutz (MS 68), Harveyville, June 15, 2023

Dr. Stephen M. Archer (BSE 57, BA 57, MS 58), Columbia, Mo., Feb. 13, 2023

1930

Elmer L. Hanson (BSE 53, MS 63), McPherson, March 12, 2023

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

Noel G. Ary (BS 62), Dodge City, June 17, 2023 James D. Aubert (MS 66), Carmichael, Calif., April 24, 2023 Robert E. Barnes (BA 66), Newark, N.Y., May 3, 2023 Richard L. Barton (MS 66), Scott City, Aug. 8, 2022 John T. Baumstimler (BSE 69), Roanoke, Va., May 14, 2023 Marsha Jo Becco (BS 67, MA 71), Springfield, Mo., Aug. 1, 2022 Frederick A. "Fred" Bichet, II (BSE 60, MS 64), Hutchinson, March 11, 2023 Patricia A. (Tipling) Bolton (BS 62), Kansas City, Mo., June 23, 2023

James E. Koenig (BSE 67, MS 71), Kansas City, May 30, 2023 Arlene M. (Lutz) Levin (MLS 63), Sun City, Ariz., June 3, 2023 Carolyn S. (Barrons) Lewis (BSE 63, MS 68), Lawrence, April 28, 2023 Roberta (Spurgeon) Lindeman (BSB 60), Pahrump, Nev., March 5, 2023 Dr. Stanley E. Manahan (BA 60), Columbia, Mo., Jan. 29, 2023 Ethyle J. (Bobo) McRoy (BSE 69), Myrtle Beach, S.C., March 7, 2023 Curtis R. Means (BSB 61), Denver, Colo., Feb. 16, 2023 Turi E. (Rogers) Melichar (BSE 68), Caldwell, Feb. 6, 2023

Roger S. Pankratz (MS 61), Chattanooga, Tenn., May 4, 2023 Nellie "Maxine" (Shields) Patterson (BSE 61), Lawrence, March 30, 2023 Kenneth D. Perkins (BSE 61), Russell, Dec. 17, 2022 Elizabeth A. (Herrill) Phares (BSE 69), Wichita, March 11, 2023 Oscar G. Riblett (BA 67), Wichita, Feb. 16, 2023 Trudy C. (Drapal) Ringer (BSE 69, MS 71), Belleville, April 29, 2023 Gary L. Robinson (BSE 66, MS 70), Independence, Mo., Feb. 23, 2023 Richard L. Rohrer (BSE 60, MS 68), New Brighton, Minn., March 18, 2023 Donald J. Ryel (BSE 66, MS 69), Wichita, March 20, 2023 Dean A. Sanders (BSE 62), Winchester, Feb. 25, 2023 David A. Shinn (BSE 69), Uniontown, June 13, 2023 Gary E. "Moe" Solomon (BSB 61), Olathe, June 29, 2023 Elton E. Spena (BSE 64), Berryton, March 6, 2023 Sara J. (Robinson) Steiner (BSE 65, MS 02), Burlington, Dec. 20, 2022 Ronald G. Sturgeon (BSE 62), Smith Center, Jan. 2, 2023 Barbara L. Summers (BSE 67), Olathe, Feb. 25, 2023 Mark D. Telfer (BS 62), El Dorado, March 24, 2023 Dr. Joyce M. Thierer (MLS 80, MS 86), Admire, April 10, 2023 Rita D. (Hansen) Thomas (BSE 65, MS 73), Hillsboro, March 4, 2023 Melba (Mauck) Treaster (MS 64), Fort Collins, Colo., Jan. 16, 2023

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

fall 2023

31

Dennis D. Tressin (BSE 64), La Cygne, June 7, 2023

Dr. Jeanne L. Berg (MS 73), Topeka, March 23, 2023

Cynthia K. Sayles (BSE 74), Kansas City, Jan. 31, 2023

Dr. William D. "Dave" Farson, III (MS 83), Shawnee, Feb. 16, 2023

Jeff A. Ensley (MA 08, MLS 14), Topeka, April 19, 2023

Robert M. "Bob" Moews, Emporia, March 12, 2023

Jennie M. Underwood (BSE 69, MS 70), Austin, Texas, Jan. 6, 2023

Betty J. (Roberts) Blex (MS 71), Emporia, June 22, 2023

Linda K. (Caler) Schomaker (BSE 74), Frankfort, Feb. 26, 2023

Leon C. Franklin (BS 84), Overland Park, Jan. 1, 2023

Cynthia G. Gilger (BS 02, MS 07), Emporia, March 8, 2023

Donald R. Peterson, Council Grove, March 28, 2023

John B. Walsh (BSE 68, MA 69), Fort Pierce, Fla., March 12, 2023

Sara F. (Beal) Bohrer (BS 70), Derby, May 26, 2023

Michael W. Scimeca, III (BS 71), Caney, March 24, 2023

Randolph J. "Randy" Johnson (BSB 83), Houston, Texas, June 7, 2023

Linda Y. (Taylor) Hummel (MA 08), Overbrook, Jan. 3, 2023

Gerald L. "Shad" Shadwick, Greeley, Colo., May 31, 2023

Barbara "Carolyn" (Huse) Walstrom (BSE 63), Girard, June 23, 2023

Thomas L. Bright (BSB 71), Tulsa, Okla., April 1, 2023

Dr. Susan M. Scott (BA 73, MS 74), Manhattan, May 13, 2023

Mark C. Lane (BSB 88), McPherson, Jan. 1, 2023

Timothy R. Jager (MS 09), Belleville, Mich., April 23, 2023

Ruth G. (Knotts) Shupe, Emporia, May 24, 2023

Dr. Raymond L. Welch (BA 65), Austin, Texas, Feb. 6, 2023

Richard "Dick" Bucher (BA 72), Ponca City, Okla., Jan. 14, 2023

Dr. Gary D. Sellers (BS 74), Sun City Center, Fla., June 6, 2023

Marilyn Y. (Hodel) Loeffler (MLS 81), Newton, Jan. 26, 2023

Terri L. Raburn (MLS 09), Holdrege, Neb., April 15, 2023

Barbara White Walker, Oro Valley, Ariz., March 5, 2023

William L. "Bill" Wendel (BSE 66), Rogers, Ark., Jan. 29, 2023

Dorothy L. (Bruce) Chaney (MS 75), Ottawa, Dec. 27, 2022

Thomas M. Simmons (BS 77), Kansas City, Mo., Dec. 20, 2022

Steven D. McDonald (BSB 85), Iola, April 14, 2023

Susan M. "Susie" (Ireland) Whitaker (MLS 05), Perry, Jan. 4, 2023

Myrna L. (Williams) Walker, Tomball, Texas, Jan. 29, 2023

Wanda J. (Miller) White (BSE 65), Kansas City, March 3, 2023

Ila M. (Barnes) Clements (BSE 75, MS 84), Wichita, April 1, 2023

Ronald N. "Ron" Sinclair (BSB 70), Wichita, April 24, 2023

Pearl E. (Wolcott) Purdy (AS 86), Gridley, May 27, 2023

2010

Sally J. (Hull) Wiebe, Montezuma, March 2, 2023

Dorothy N. (Blakemore) Whittenberg (MS 63), Soldotna, Alaska, May 29, 2023

Beverly A. (Darrah) Conway (BSE 70, MS 73), Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 28, 2023

Michael E. Smart (BSB 72), Pittsburg, Jan. 25, 2023

Carol A. Seaman (BS 80), Topeka, June 4, 2023

Stephen R. "Steve" Williams (BSE 64, MS 69), Newton, April 3, 2023

Kenneth W. "Bill" Cook (BA 72), Osawatomie, April 26, 2023

James W. "Jim" Sowers (BSE 71, MS 75), Lenexa, Feb. 26, 2023

Michael W. Sterbach (BFA 86), Williamsport, Pa., March 24, 2023

1970

Russell L. "Russ" Davis (BSE 71), Corpus Christi, Texas, March 31, 2023

Marilyn D. (Copeland) Stanfield (BSE 70), Wichita, Feb. 5, 2023

Carol E. (McClain) Stone (BS 82, MS 85), Hartford, April 23, 2023

Debra W. "Debbie" Ellis (BSB 76), Prairie Village, May 20, 2023

Larry B. Stewart (BSE 72), Galveston, Texas, March 2, 2023

David R. Sweet (BSB 88), Olathe, June 3, 2023

Terrence L. Hamm (BSB 72), Liberal, March 25, 2023

Jimmie O. Strait (MS 73, EDS 78), Rio Rancho, N.M., April 13, 2023

David T. Umscheid (BSB 86), Manhattan, May 5, 2023

John L. Haraughty (MS 70), Spring Hill, Dec. 28, 2022

Michael P. Stremel (BSE 71), Colorado Springs, Colo., May 25, 2023

Barbara J. Whalen (BS 84), Lansing, Feb. 3, 2023

Marvin D. Hiestand (BSB 71, MS 74), Topeka, April 3, 2023

Alan C. Swarts (BSB 75), Lawrence, May 13, 2023

Debra D. "Debi" Tanner Wright (BSB 86), Tucson, Ariz., Dec. 23, 2022

Madge (Patterson) Horton (MS 77), San Antonio, Texas, Dec. 13, 2022

Diane R. (Lassman) Taylor (BSE 73, MS 76, MLS 05), Topeka, Jan. 2, 2023

Debra S. (Hook) Zongker (BSE 81), Langdon, Jan. 30, 2023

Charlie A. Hughes (BSB 73), OIathe, May 16, 2023

John F. "Jay" Ternes, II (BSE 74), Bozeman, Mont., May 29, 2023

1990

Larry M. Hynek (BSE 73), Barnes, Jan. 29, 2023

Janis L. (Gilbert) Thogmartin (BSE 72), Emporia, June 7, 2023

Thomas J. Klenda (BSB 74), Marion, Feb. 14, 2023

Ralph A. Thomas (BSE 71), New York, N.Y., Dec. 19, 2022

George E. Martin (MS 70), Lawrence, Oct. 12, 2022

Bruce B. Walquist (BSB 76), Joshua, Texas, May 6, 2023

Georgene S. Melton (BSB 77, MLS 78), Emporia, Dec. 13, 2022

Dr. Gerald F. "Gary" Waner (BSE 70, MS 79), Warrensburg, Mo., May 17, 2023

Barbara J. (McDonald) Merry (BSB 78), Burlington, May 12, 2023

Lawrence E. "Larry" Williams (MS 71), Emporia, Feb. 15, 2023

Claudia M. (Alexander) Neal (MS 70), Wichita, Jan. 24, 2023

Norman W. Winter (BSE 72), Hillsboro, March 21, 2023

Cecil M. Oldham (BSB 73), Overland Park, April 5, 2023

1980

Joyce E. (Swartz) Bachtel (BS 76), Leavenworth, June 23, 2023 Kim Dale Bahner (BSE 78), Belvue, April 2, 2023 Daniel L. Baysinger (BA 71), Norman, Okla., Feb. 22, 2023 James H. Beam, Jr. (MS 72), Pratt, June 13, 2023 Frank L. Bean (MS 78), Hutchinson, Feb. 20, 2023 Christopher Beasley (BA 75, MS 79), Denver, Colo., Nov. 19, 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

32

Matthew "Steve" Papa, Jr. (BSB 78), Kansas City, Dec. 25, 2022 Susan M. (Merritt) Rathke (BSE 77), Emporia, March 31, 2023 Patricia L. (Rieke) Regan (BSB 77), Shawnee, March 5, 2023 Lorraine M. (Nitcher) Reichard (BA 70), Pomona, May 6, 2023 Gregory K. Sandstrom (MS 70, EDS 72), Colorado Springs, Colo., March 29, 2023

Kararose Gilman (MS 16), Riverside, Calif., Feb. 11, 2023 James D. Sill (BSB 14), Independence, Mo., Jan. 7, 2023

Former Students

Cinda A. (Zuel) Atwater, Osawatomie, June 19, 2023 Lois C. Balkenhol, Emporia, May 7, 2023

Timothy T. Baldridge (BS 91, MA 93), Overland Park, May 5, 2023 Carlyn R. Black (BS 90, MS 92), Topeka, Jan. 25, 2023 Leroy C. Bowen (BSB 91), Augusta, May 6, 2023 Mary A. "Molly" (Wagoner) Fisher (MLS 94), Lincoln, Neb., Dec. 16, 2022 Dorothy E. Garrett (MS 93), Kansas City, May 16, 2023 Carl D. Kobler, Jr. (MS 96), Hill City, April 24, 2023 Jenny L. (Newbold) Pierce (BS 92), Kansas City, Jan. 22, 2023 Debra I. Spiller (MS 90), Hoisington, April 17, 2023

Glenda "G.G." (Gleason) Burdolski (BSB 87), Edwardsville, Jan. 24, 2023

Linda S. Steffe (BSE 99), Topeka, May 23, 2023

Sophie (Gerras) Camburako (MS 80), Kansas City, Mo., June 22, 2023

Patricia A. (Aronhalt) Stephenson (BS 96), Maryville, Ill., Feb. 22, 2023

Marilyn L. (Roth) Davis (AS 83), Emporia, Nov. 4, 2022

Jennifer J. (Reichard) Weaver (BSE 96, MS 14), Chanute, Feb. 8, 2023

Ellen E. (Sheedy) DeLay (MS 80), Council Grove, June 27, 2023

2000

Mary F. Croatt-Moore (MLS 02), Boise, Idaho, Dec. 5, 2022

Winona E. "Nona" (Reed) Wilhm, Stillwater, Okla., Jan. 3, 2023 Donald L. Williams, Emporia, Feb. 12, 2023

Friends

John G. "Jack" Atherton, Emporia, Feb. 19, 2023 Marvin R. Klein, Leawood, June 12, 2023

Cathy A. Berry, Topeka, April 24, 2023

Megan O'Reilly Hayes Mahoney, Emporia, Jan. 15, 2023

Ronald C. Clevenger, Ottawa, Feb. 28, 2023

Dr. George K. Walters (Retired ESU Faculty), Emporia, Feb. 26, 2023

Wanda J. (Bruington) Davis, Emporia, April 5, 2023 Rodger K. Drake, Strong City, May 2, 2023

Karl "Phil" Brinkmeyer (BS 80), El Dorado, April 23, 2023

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

Kevin D. Gaddis, II (BSB 14), Oklahoma City, Okla., Jan. 2, 2023

Terril L. "Terry" Eberhard, Peabody, March 21, 2023 Darla K. (Goldsberry) Edwards, Emporia, Feb. 12, 2023 Marry (Hand) Flinn, Amarillo, Texas, Jan. 1, 2023 Charles W. "Chuck" Hanna, Emporia, April 2, 2023 Esther V. (Knotts) Hedges, Derby, April 13, 2023 Orlyn K. Johnson, Emporia, May 1, 2023 Patricia R. "Pat" (Pierce) Kells, Lawrence, Feb. 5, 2023

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 Links Distinguished Alumni emporia.edu/distinguishednomination

Georgia "Lorraine" (Duncan) Marshall, Emporia, March 19, 2023

Alumni Association Board of Directors emporia.edu/boardnomination

Dr. Kenneth A. Martinez, Lawrence, June 5, 2023

Hornet Heritage Award emporia.edu/heritagenomination

Steven J. McAllaster, Effingham, Ill., June 3, 2023

University Service Citation emporia.edu/servicenomination

Rita K. (Krueger) McFadden, Jefferson City, Mo., April 10, 2023 John L. McGuire, Emporia, May 8, 2023 James B. Merriman, Colorado Springs, Colo., May 17, 2023 Judith A. (Schenberger) Miller, Sun City, Texas, March 29, 2023

Content in these sections reflects submissions received through July 1, 2023

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