Leading the Way
Calendar of Events
Alumni and Friends of Hornet Nation
Managing Editor
Lindsay Thompson lthomp15@emporia.edu
Design & Layout
Ryan O’Meara romeara@emporia.edu
Photography
Jordan Storrer jstorre2@emporia.edu
Spotlight on Alumni
Laurie Pitman lpitman@emporia.edu
Teddi Davis (BS 2007) tdavis@emporia.edu
Contributors
Lindsay Thompson
Phillip Tutor
Editorial Committee
Jenni Denton (MBA 2016)
Kelly Heine (BFA 2001)
Tiffany Wilson (BS 2010)
Emporia State University President
Ken Hush (BSB 1982)
ESU Foundation Interim President/CEO
Gary Allerheiligen (BSB 70)
Vice President for Alumni & Stewardship and Associate Vice President for University Advancement
Jenni Denton
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
Postmaster, send address corrections to Alumni Association, 1500 Highland Street, Emporia, KS 66801-5018
Volume 54, Number 1
Due to the possibility of schedule changes and adjustments, we recommend you visit the following websites to see the most current information on upcoming ESU and local events.
ESU Alumni Association Events � emporia.edu/alumnievents
Emporia Main Street � emporiamainstreet.com
Emporia Arts Council � emporiaksarts.org
Emporia Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau � visitemporia.com/events
Coffee, Please
ESU Alumnus at the Forefront of Starbucks’ Global Growth
By Phillip Tutor
Before Dennis Brockman became an executive for Starbucks Corporation, a national advocate for corporate diversity and inclusion, and a proud alumnus of Emporia State University, he worked at his local McDonald’s in Kansas City, Kansas. He swept floors, wielded a mop, emptied trash cans, assisted customers and assembled beef patties, sesame seed buns and dollops of special sauce into Big Macs. He often reported to work a half-hour early, sitting off to the side doing his homework before his shift began. People noticed.
Nine months after becoming a McDonald’s crew member, Brockman – still a junior in high school – listened to his boss propose a new role: shift supervisor, a vital position responsible for the fast-food restaurant’s entire operation during certain times of the day.
He was just 17.
“That's really where my interest started in leading people,” Brockman said. “I loved leading people. I loved having a team and setting goals and taking care of customers and marketing. The whole aspect of business just started to become so much fun.”
Four decades later, the 59-year-old Brockman (BSB 87-Business Administration) is far removed from his days sweeping floors at a Kansas City McDonald’s. As Starbucks’ senior vice president for U.S. Retail Operations, he oversees the corporation’s efforts in 29 states and roughly 4,000 stores. It’s quite a change from his previous role as Starbucks’ global chief inclusion and diversity officer. He and his wife, Evonna Brockman (BSE 90-Family and Consumer Sciences), also an ESU alumna, moved from Seattle to Riverside, Missouri, for his current Starbucks role.
“I always say that my No. 1 job is really about brand. I'm a brand ambassador for Starbucks,” he said. “I have the responsibility to ensure that we are fulfilling the commitment to our partners (employees), to our customers, and to the community that we serve in.”
That’s how Judy Brockman raised her seven children: to do your best, to respect others, to appreciate a day’s work. And she meant it. On her youngest child’s first day of work at that Kansas City McDonald’s, Judy introduced herself to the restaurant’s owner and gave him the same message she had delivered to her son’s teachers: “If you have any issues with Dennis, you call me.”
Judy Brockman’s style of leadership still resonates with Starbucks’ senior VP.
“I never saw my mom have a bad day,” Brockman said. “I'm sure there were struggles with seven kids, just trying to survive. But she always had a positive outlook. She always told us: Regardless of the situation, focus on what you have, not what you don't have.
“She never was a manager. She didn't have a business degree. She couldn't call the lawyer or the stockbroker when she got in trouble. She was tough, but she inspired us that we can do more than we thought we could do. There were so many leadership lessons that I learned from her.”
Before college, Brockman considered a career in education; his long-term goal was to become a high school principal, perhaps in the mold of Joe Clark, the central character in his favorite movie, “Lean on Me.” At ESU, however, he discovered a welcoming campus that encouraged his burgeoning leadership skills — he participated in Associated Student Government and the Black Student Union and was a resident advisor — and faculty who empowered his youthful business sense. All these years later, Brockman still lauds what he describes as the “good balance” of ESU professors under which he studied: some were career academics, others were long-time business leaders and entrepreneurs who’d transitioned into higher education. Academically, it was the best of both worlds.
“I think the courses that I took prepared me,” he added. “I'm not a finance major, but if you ask my team (at Starbucks), they think I am because I'm into numbers. I got that good balance because ESU really prepared me. It gave me a foundation of what to expect when I left ESU.”
Prior to joining Starbucks’ executives ranks, Brockman built his corporate resume through lengthy stints as a production manager at Josten’s, a district manager at Wendy’s and Starbucks, and a vice president of operations at Aramark. His second go-around at Starbucks began in May 2011, his roles since then routinely rising in responsibility.
When asked what lessons today’s students could draw from his career journey, he says committing to the full college experience is more important than any specific knowledge learned in the classroom. You can hear Judy Brockman’s influence when he speaks.
“I do believe what you put in is what you're going to get out, and you should take advantage of the many offerings that we have at ESU... because they’re going to prepare you for when you get out there.”
“I do believe what you put in is what you're going to get out,” Brockman said, “and you should take advantage of the many offerings that we have at ESU. That gave me an opportunity to be with some of the brightest students at ESU and meet other professors that I didn't have classes with. What I would say to today’s students is to take advantage of these opportunities, because they’re going to prepare you for when you get out there.”
Interestingly, the years spent in Starbucks’ corporate offices and coffee shops have transformed Brockman into something of a coffee aficionado. That wasn’t the case beforehand. He now can identify the type of coffee – say, blonde or dark roast – not only by taste, but also by smell. His palate, he says, can differentiate between coffees’ acidity and region of origin. It’s a perk of working for the world’s largest coffeehouse chain. By the way, Brockman does have a go-to Starbucks drink. A caramel macchiato latte.
“I just love the sweetness of it,” he said. “And, as a matter of fact, it’s our No. 1 beverage.”
This fall, Starbucks Corporation Senior Vice President for U.S. Operations Dennis Brockman, who serves on the Board of Trustees for the ESU Foundation, will return to the ESU campus during Homecoming week to deliver the Sam E. and Jeannene Hayes Lecture and to receive the Distinguished Alumni award from the ESU Alumni Association at the Black & Gold Gala. See the schedule of these and other Homecoming events and register to attend at emporia.edu/homecoming.
Here to Help You Build Connections
Hornet Nation . What do we mean when we say you are a part of Hornet Nation? We’re talking about a dynamic community that includes alumni, donors, sports fans, theatre supporters and families involved in our summer camps and educational programs. You are an essential part of this community.
Whether you are a new graduate or you haven’t set foot on campus in decades, Emporia State can be a resource for you throughout your lifetime. There is a vast universe of ways you can stay connected to ESU, from networking for your career growth to mentoring the next generation of professionals, or from staying connected with old friends to expanding your social life with new folks with whom you already share a lot in common. We are here to help you make the most of this community. And we have a very special team dedicated to helping you stay connected in the ways that are most meaningful to… you .
Our new team of Donor Experience Officers reach out to alumni by sending a short video email to introduce themselves. They are looking to connect one-on-one to learn about your personal ESU story, where you are in your life and career and what your passions are now. Their aim is to help you stay connected with ESU in the ways that are most relevant and rewarding to you. Whether that is sharing volunteer opportunities, making sure you are getting invites to events in your area or reunion gatherings or helping you explore ways you can support current students, they want to learn what is important to you and how ESU can add value to your life now.
Our small but mighty team is looking forward to meeting you and learning all about you! Keep your eyes out for their call or email.
Not sure if we have your current contact information? You can update it at emporia.edu/updateinfo or scan the QR code here.
2024 Distinguished Alumni
The Emporia State University Distinguished Alumni award is the highest honor that can be granted to an alumnus or alumna of Emporia State University by ESU Alumni Association. Awarded each fall during Homecoming, the award recognizes the outstanding professional accomplishments of Emporia State’s finest graduates.
Dr. George Poole
Dr. George Poole’s (BSE 64-Mathematics) adoration for mathematics started decades ago in a traditional place — a high school classroom — where a geometry teacher in Miami opened his teenaged eyes to the scientific study of numbers and he gained the confidence he’d carry throughout his career in education.
After earning his bachelor’s degree at Emporia State, he served as a mathematics professor and chair of ESU’s math department before moving on to similar roles at Lamar University and ETSU. Acting on advice he received at Texas Tech University, where he earned his Ph.D., Poole embraced mathematical research. Not only did that advice lead him to focus on multiple mathematical disciplines instead of a single field of study, it provided him widespread recognition for his scientific contributions on topics such as geometry (worm problem of Leo Moser); matrix theory (generalized inverses); and numerical linear Algebra (Rook’s pivoting strategy).
Poole’s career focus pivoted in 2001 when he attended an international conference on the training and preparation of elementary teachers and watched a video that included teachers confessing they were not good at mathematics themselves. He immediately redirected his focus. “I don't know what's going on between kindergarten and sixth-grade mathematics,” he remembers thinking, “but I want to find out. I want to help these teachers overcome their fears and create a classroom environment where their kids are no longer afraid of mathematics…I want them to know that they're in control of mathematics, they're in control of the mathematical world.”
He believes working with elementary teachers represents the highlight of his five-plus decades in higher education. Though retired from ETSU, Poole has remained in the classroom by earning certification as a high school math teacher and accepting teaching positions in South Carolina. His love of mathematics and working with students hasn’t waned.
Dr. Jackie Vietti
Now a facilitator at the Kansas Community College Leadership Institute, Dr. Jackie Vietti (BSE 71-Secondary Education) notably served as ESU’s interim president in 2015. In her letter nominating Vietti for the university’s Distinguished Alumni award, Dr. Mary Shivley, dean of the Honors College, wrote that “under (Vietti’s) six months of leadership, ESU found new energy and embraced challenges of the future with confidence. Jackie Vietti is a transformational leader. It is rare to have a conversation with Dr. Vietti and not end the interaction feeling better about yourself, the situation and the future.”
Vietti’s ESU connections first formed in 1958 when her mother earned a master’s in French from the university. Thirteen years later, Vietti received her secondary teaching certificate from ESU before earning a master’s and doctorate from Pittsburg State University and Kansas State University, respectively. One of her daughters also holds a master’s from ESU in Library Science. In the years since, Vietti has enhanced her ESU connections by serving on the ESU Foundation Board of Trustees and the 2022 University Presidential Search Committee. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the National Teachers Hall of Fame located on the ESU campus.
“I will always, always, always hold a teaching certificate from Emporia State as one of the best across the nation,” Vietti said. “Few, if any, colleges and universities better prepare students to enter the noble profession of teaching than does Emporia State.”
Nearly half of Vietti’s four decades in public higher education has been spent as president of Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas. As the college’s first female president, Vietti helped increase enrollment by 21 percent and oversaw several campus capital projects. She also has worked as dean of instruction and interim president of Labette Community College in Parsons, Kansas, and dean of Arts and Sciences instruction at Crowder College in Neosho, Missouri.
From 2017 to 2018, she served as acting president at Kansas City Kansas Community College.
Dennis Brockman
Dennis Brockman (BSB 87–Business Administration), Starbucks Corporation’s senior vice president for U.S. Retail Operations, has built his substantial corporate career as much on leadership skills as he has on the technical intricacies of selling cups of Pike Place Roast.
That focus is by design, he says, given the inspiration he still gets from his late mother, Judy Brockman, and his personal desire to constantly present the best version of himself.
A native of Kansas City, Kansas, Brockman participated in ESU’s Associated Student Government and was a resident advisor on campus. Since earning his degree and embarking on a career that has included management roles at Josten’s, Wendy’s and Aramark, he’s remained an unabashed supporter of ESU and champion of the quality of education Hornet graduates receive. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the ESU Foundation. His wife, Evonna Brockman, is also an ESU graduate.
“In light of his outstanding achievements, leadership and service, Mr. Brockman stands as an exemplary candidate for the Distinguished Alumni Award,” Bethany Tegtmeier, vice president of Development for the ESU Foundation, wrote in her nomination letter for Brockman. “Recognizing Dennis with this prestigious honor not only celebrates his individual accomplishments but also serves as an inspiration for current and future students to emulate his commitment to excellence and community engagement.”
Though it’s been nearly four decades since he completed his degree, Brockman remains as steadfastly appreciative of his time in Emporia as ever. Time hasn’t diminished his support for his alma mater.
“ESU has prepared me to compete, not only at Starbucks, but also at every company I've been with,” he said. “I go into every company, every position, with the confidence that I can do this job just as well as anyone else. I take pride in telling people that I'm a graduate of ESU.”
Dr. David E. Gussak
Dr. David E. Gussak (PhD 01-Library & Information Mgmt) is a professor for the Florida State University (FSU) Graduate Art Therapy Program, where he has taught with distinction for more than 20 years. He’s also the coordinator of the FSU/Florida Department of Corrections Art Therapy in Prison Program, in which he develops strategies and guides art therapists and trainees as they assist inmates with frustration tolerance, problem solving and re-establishing a sense of identity and self. An internationally recognized expert in his field, Gussak was named an Honorary Life Member of the American Art Therapy Association in 2022.
Gussak’s research interests are forensic art therapy and art therapy in correctional settings, which has led him to assist aggressive and violent adult populations, both in civilian life and in prisons, and juvenile justice populations. He has presented and published extensively internationally and nationally, including, among others, Art on Trial: Art Therapy for Capital Murder Cases (2013), Art and Art Therapy with the Imprisoned: Re-Creating Identity (2019), The Frenzied Dance of Art and Violence (2022) and co-edited The Wiley Handbook of Art Therapy (2016).
Originally from New York, Gussak’s education and work experience has taken him to campuses across the country, but his ties to Emporia State University run deep. He previously worked as an art therapy instructor and assistant professor at ESU and served as director of its graduate art therapy program (1998-2001). He also received his Ph.D. in Library and Information Management from ESU in 2001.
In her letter nominating Gussak for the Distinguished Alumni Award, Dr. Gaelynn Wolf Bordonaro, director of ESU’s art therapy program, praised the breadth of Gussak’s work in such a specialized and rewarding field.
“Emporia State University’s very own Dave Gussak is a pretty amazing one-man show, but he fully appreciates the trailblazing work that scaffolding of ideas, talents, and strengths make possible,” she wrote. “He seeks opportunities to appreciate and recognize the contributions and expertise of other leaders in the field of art therapy.”
To learn more about Emporia State University’s distinguished alumni, visit emporia.edu/distinguishedalumni.
Homecoming 2024
Come back to campus for events October 3-6
Welcome Home, Hornets!
It’s an exciting time to be a Hornet, and Homecoming 2024 is sure to be filled with memories you will never forget!
Plan to celebrate with your fellow alumni and friends as you step back on campus this fall. Reflect on your cherished memories, rekindle old friendships, and forge new connections.
This year’s featured reunion groups include KSTC Class of 1974, Emporia Connection, Band/Cheer/ Stingers and Volleyball!
The parade is back! Gather on Commercial Street in downtown Emporia and wave to the floats as they show their Black and Gold pride while making their way to Kellogg Circle on the beautiful ESU campus. The celebration will then continue during the traditional Hornet Walk down pedestrian mall, where the Hornet Football team takes their walk to the stadium. Show your support prior to the big game!
Register for
Homecoming 2024 events at emporia.edu/homecoming.
Live at the Hive presented by Bud Light
Refresh and refuel prior to kick-off, while enjoying live music and connecting with friends and your fellow Hornet fans.
To purchase Football, Live at the Hive, and Homecoming Musical tickets, visit emporia.edu/tickets.
Calendar of Events
Day Time Event Location
Monday, Sep. 30 5:00-8:00 PM Canoe Race/Stinger Showdown Kellogg Circle
Thursday, Oct. 3
7:30 PM
7:30 PM
Friday, Oct. 4
Sam E. and Jeannene Hayes Lecture
Memorial Union: Webb Hall featuring Dennis Brockman (BSB 87-Business Administration) Senior VP of U.S. Operations for Starbucks
50th Anniversary Homecoming Musical King Hall: Karl C. Bruder Theatre “She Loves Me”
10 AM-10 AM Sat. Phi Delta Theta Alumni Pole Sit 12th and Commercial
4:30 PM Black & Gold Gala Progressive Reception Memorial Union
6:00 PM ESU Volleyball Game vs Pitt State White Auditorium
7:00 PM Black & Gold Gala Memorial Union: Webb Hall
7:30 PM 50th Anniversary Homecoming Musical King Hall: Karl C. Bruder Theatre “She Loves Me”
8:30 PM Homecoming Bonfire / Hornet Rally Wilson Park
Saturday, Oct. 5 8:00 AM
Band/Cheer/Stinger Reunion practice Welch Stadium
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM Black and Gold Visit Day (prospective students) ESU Campus
9:00 AM Black & Gold Day Campus Tour Start: Memorial Union, Webb Hall (students and alumni)
8:30 AM – 10:00 AM Alumni Breakfast
Memorial Union: Main Street
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM CyROC Open House Cremer Hall, 5th Floor
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Esports Open House Cremer Hall, 1st Floor
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Phi Sigma Kappa Annual Meeting Memorial Union, Roe R Cross Room
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM ESU Volleyball Alumni Game White Auditorium
10:00 AM Homecoming Parade Commercial Street to Campus
11:00 AM Hornet Walk Feltner Student Union Square to Welch Stadium
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM The Teachers College Party on the Patio Visser Hall: Patio (east side)
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM ESU Volleyball Alumni Meet with Team White Auditorium
12:00 PM- 1:45 PM Live at the Hive Presented by Bud Light South of ESU Kossover Tennis Complex
2:00 PM ESU Football vs. Northeastern State Welch Stadium
2:00 PM Band/Cheer/Dance Perform at Halftime Welch Stadium
7:00 PM ESU Volleyball vs Newman White Auditorium
7:30 PM
Sunday, Oct. 6 2:00 PM
50th Anniversary Homecoming Musical King Hall: Karl C. Bruder Theatre “She Loves Me”
50th Anniversary Homecoming Musical King Hall: Karl C. Bruder Theatre “She Loves Me”
Baseball and Softball Alumni Weekend will be Oct. 11-13, 2024.
Former Teacher and Coach Pivots to Counseling and Finds Her Calling
By Phillip Tutor
“I chose a different path, but I feel like I'm making the impact that I want to, I finally feel like I found what I want to do.”
For years, volleyball and teaching have been at the center of Carly Spicer’s life. She played for Emporia State University, joined the Hornets’ coaching staff, taught physical education courses at ESU and became an Algebra I teacher in her hometown of Osage City.
It’s impossible to overstate Spicer’s (BSE 15-Elementary Education, MS 17-Health, Physical Education + Recreation) involvement with ESU’s women’s volleyball team. She was a constant face of the program for nine seasons: four as a player — she earned first-team all-conference honors as a senior in 2014 — and five as a graduate assistant and assistant coach. She adored the sport, but she grew tired of the grinding travel schedule.
“I was very passionate, and volleyball is still a big part of my life,” she said, “but playing for four years and ending up being there for five years coaching, I was just ready for a change.”
When a high-school teaching position opened in Osage City, she put her elementary education degree to practical use, passed the math certification test and started anew.
But a heartfelt query kept recurring during her three years in a high-school classroom: Am I doing enough for my students?
She responded by leaving the classroom and becoming a school counselor, a highly skilled professional role that requires empathy and the ability to excel at a critical task: communicating well with teenagers. The 31-year-old former Hornet volleyball standout is in her second year as a middleschool counselor in Osage City and is pursuing her third degree from ESU — a Master of Science in school counseling.
“I had a very good upbringing and really enjoyed my hometown and my school,” Spicer said. “When I came back, I felt like these kids were having struggles and difficulties that maybe I didn't have in school; they weren't academic, they were social. They were dealing with stuff emotionally...I knew if I was going to be able to help these kids further — because they were comfortable enough to come to me — I needed to get more education.”
Because students often discuss a range of issues with school counselors, Spicer commends ESU for preparing graduates for issues beyond emotional or social needs. Also included in the master’s program curriculum is instruction on handling academic issues, class scheduling, and career and college readiness.
“Emporia State has one of the most robust counselor education programs in Kansas, which offers more counseling degree specialties than any of the other regent universities,” said Dr. Basil Kessler, assistant professor of counselor education. “As the pandemic has shifted both the way we educate and the way we provide and receive mental health services, Emporia State continues to build on the long-established legacy of educating some of the best mental health professionals in Kansas.”
In addition to her education, Spicer believes the life lessons she gained as a college student-athlete and assistant coach are also valuable tools she can use with her students.
“I feel like I can relate to those kids who are having those stressors from sports and time management,” she said. “Sports have taught me a lot about working with other people and being able to communicate things.”
It’s that sincere communication — a productive rapport between students and school counselors — that is vital.
“There are kids who just know this is a safe place. They can come to my office or shoot me an email, and we can have time to decompress, talk about the situation and move forward.”
Though she no longer coaches volleyball at ESU, she hasn’t removed sports from her daily routine. She’s also the head volleyball and softball coach at Osage City High School.
“I chose a different path, but I feel like I'm making the impact that I want to,” she said. “I finally feel like I found what I want to do.”
School counselors like Carly Spicer are indispensable resources in schools and make a positive impact on the lives of children and adolescents. They are also in high demand.
According to the American School Counseling Association, there is a nationwide shortage of school counselors. Campus Safety Magazine ranks Kansas 30th in school counselor shortages, with 1,217 counselors for 694,113 students, a ratio of 398:1.
Emporia State University’s School Counselor program is helping address this vital need, especially in Kansas. Learn more about our Master of Science in school counseling at emporia.edu/schoolcounseling
Former Student Gamer Now E-Ventures/Esports Coordinator
By Phillip Tutor
Nathan Goodwin (BSB
23-Information Systems) vividly remembers when he discovered competitive video gaming. Though video games had always been one of his childhood obsessions, he learned in ninth grade that competing online against other gamers turned an often solitary activity into a shared experience — the gaming equivalent of playing full-court basketball instead of shooting baskets by yourself.
Challenging other online gamers rocked his world. What once was his pastime became his sport.
It seems natural that Goodwin, 24, is now ESU’s E-Ventures/ Esports coordinator. After transferring to ESU from Pittsburg State University, he quickly devoted much of his undergraduate days to developing the campus’ original esports club. His success earned praise and a full-time job as the university’s esports coordinator before he had even completed his degree. ESU’s E-Ventures now include both the esports club, which Goodwin says is focused more on game nights and casual experiences for students, and the competitive varsity esports teams.
He’s well aware of how unusual his scenario is. “I am very lucky,” he said.
He’s also cognizant that to students he’s no longer Nathan, a fellow gamer; he’s Mr. Goodwin. As such, he doesn’t get to spend as many hours playing games that cater to his preference for slow-paced, tactical thinking.
“I spend more time helping others who play the game for me,” he said. “But it's really important that as a coordinator, I'm still connected to these things. I can still speak the lingo. I'm still a part of the culture.”
Some people begin their mornings with coffee and scrolling through email inboxes; Goodwin’s daily routine usually begins with 10 to 15 minutes of gaming.
“I spend at least a little bit of time playing video games every single day,” he said. “Not much, but just something to keep me in the loop, keep me fresh, so that when I'm talking to students, I can connect with them.”
Not only is the esports program’s freshness part of its allure, but it’s also an example of the university’s commitment to a fast-growing field of interest for students where they can explore this burgeoning tech industry.
Team members are eligible for $600 scholarships each semester, Goodwin said, and are required to practice each week. ESU’s on-campus esports arena on the first floor of Cremer Hall is less than a year old and features 24 stateof-the-art gaming stations that attract students interested in either ESU’s gaming club or its competitive teams.
“The arena has really turned into a second home for my players,” he said.
Part of Goodwin’s job has been mentoring the program’s student coaches as they coordinate schedules for the arena’s gaming stations. Forty-two students participated as players or student coaches last semester, more than double the previous total. The program’s impressive growth is unmistakable. He believes the fast-growing program could handle as many as 75 participants.
Goodwin doesn’t miss an opportunity to praise the university for its commitment to esports and its smart approach to developing its program and facility. Likewise, he’s innately aware of the serendipity that a former student gamer now directs ESU’s student gamers.
“I am so thankful for Emporia State giving me this opportunity to bring it full circle,” he said. “I put in so much effort (as a student), and it's been so wonderful to see it come to fruition and become my career. I am so blessed to be able to work with students and help them prepare for the real world. It's such a blessing to be doing what I'm doing.”
Esports might seem like a hobby or pastime, but just like traditional sports, it builds important skills that make esports athletes great employees after graduation. It teaches teamwork and setting goals both as a team and individually for the good of a team. It requires strong communication, time management, decision-making and the use of goals and metrics to evaluate and improve performance.
To learn more about Hornet Esports, visit emporia.edu/esports
Alumna Excited to Direct ESU’s Renowned Campus Theatre
By Phillip Tutor
By her own admission, Aubrey Wilson (BA 14-Theatre) was a precocious child who relished spotlights and stages, bright and imposing as they are. She adored dancing in recitals. Performing meshed with her personality. When cast during fourth grade as an orphan in a Neewollah community theatre production of the musical “Annie,” she fell in love with acting, an enduring fascination that eventually led her to Emporia State University.
Theatrical stages were “a place to be myself, to be a loud, bossy little girl,” said Wilson, the new theatre director at ESU. “All I remember is being really excited. I felt like this is where I already feel comfortable. I knew I was hooked, and I was going to do this all the time for the rest of my life.”
Originally from Independence, Kansas, Wilson’s story is a testament to her belief in ESU’s Theatre Department. She’s an ESU theatre graduate with a minor in communication; she has taught as an adjunct instructor at ESU; and now she’s completed the circle, becoming the director of her undergraduate alma mater’s campus theatre.
In Wilson, there may be no better advertisement — and advocate — for the study of theatre at ESU.
“You can take a look at our history,” she said, “and what makes the program so impressive is that we have the longestrunning summer theater program in the Midwest, and that's really thanks to Dr. Karl Bruder (longtime chair of ESU’s Theatre Department). The faculty and students before me really set a precedent of excellence, and there are a ton of alumni who have gone on to have illustrious careers.”
That was Wilson’s long-range intention when she auditioned for a scholarship at ESU: to study under some of the region’s top theatre educators and turn a passion into a vocation. After seeing an ESU production of “Hedda Gabler” during her senior year of high school, becoming a Hornet thespian seemed the path to take.
“My experience with theatre up until that point was mostly musical theater, and that was the first time that I saw a play that moved me,” she said. “I thought I only liked musicals, but I saw that play, and it made me really want to come to school here.”
As a student, ESU broadened her understanding of theatre’s possibilities. Acting wasn’t the only choice; stagecraft seemed fascinating, too. To this day, Wilson credits ESU’s “generalist” program — which trains students for a variety of on- and off-stage roles — for convincing her that theatre management, not performing, was her true calling.
“Every person who comes through the door here trains in every single area,” she said. “Our technicians have to take acting classes and our actors have to take technician classes, and I realized I liked all of it. That naturally led me into theater management because I had an understanding of all of the areas.”
Wilson left Emporia as an alumna, earned a master’s in stage management at the University of Iowa, worked in the arts in Lawrence, Kansas, and Salem, Oregon, and spent time in New York as an off-Broadway stage manager, but teaching still interested her. A series of life decisions and job openings led her back to ESU as an adjunct professor. When the theatre director’s job became available, she couldn’t apply fast enough.
“When it came down to looking at what Aubrey offered, she had some really unique skills that we happened to need,” said Dennis Turney Jr., assistant professor of theatre who had served as the interim theatre director. That need was someone skilled in stage management whose expertise would bolster ESU’s already renowned program.
What sold Turney on Wilson’s candidacy was her ability to connect with students she’d mentored.
Wilson is a nurturer, a teacher who ensures that students appreciate their own inner beauty.
“I had many students come to me and say how incredibly helpful Aubrey was, but the word that was often used was how inspiring she was to students,” he said. “The ability to inspire students and make them feel seen, to make them feel cared for, that quality is vital. It might be vital to all people, but in my experience that is extremely vital to young theatre students.”
ESU’s new theatre director has big goals for the program. As an alumna of ESU Theatre, she knows there’s a reputation to uphold. She wants to improve the technology options for theatre students, and she’s eager to grow ESU’s schedule of performances.
“I am beyond honored to have this position. It's my dream job,” she said. “I'm thrilled to be back in Emporia.”
“You can take a look at our history, and what makes the program so impressive is that we have the longest-running summer theater program in the Midwest, and that's really thanks to Dr. Karl Bruder. The faculty and students before me really set a precedent of excellence, and there are a ton of alumni who have gone on to have illustrious careers.”
To learn more about ESU’s Theatre program and upcoming performances, visit emporia.edu/theatre.
ESU is Attacking the Cost of Higher Education
Make a Gift and Make the Dream of a Life-Changing Education a Reality
Education = Opportunity.
At Emporia State University, we know education means opportunity. That’s why ESU is laser-focused on investing resources in programs that students want and the businesses they want to work for need. Our new programs, facilities and hands-on learning experiences are designed to help students get the greatest value from their education. But for many students, the cost of college is a barrier. We aim to change that.
Education is an investment. It’s no secret that the cost of education has substantially outpaced that of other goods and services. Today’s students face the challenge of carrying a larger share of their educational expenses than previous generations.
At Emporia State University, we think it is vitally important that a person's opportunity to succeed be based on their drive and determination, not the size of their bank account. Our highest priority is to ensure students have full access to an affordable education.
ESU is attacking the rising costs of higher education head on.
Even though Emporia State has always been a lower-price option, we are redoubling our efforts to make education more accessible. We are taking action to cut our costs, improve efficiencies and expand our recruitment efforts. Our long-standing flat-rate tuition and more recent in-state tuition rates for residents of the lower 48 are instrumental in making Emporia State an exceptional value in higher education. We’ve also made significant investments in our admissions efforts and rolled out a substantial price reduction for our Jump Start program, offering $63 college courses to area high school students. But there is one more component that is key to opening the doors to higher education for every student.
Scholarships are key.
Our goal is to provide larger scholarship packages to more students faster than ever before. It’s why we unveiled an array of unprecedented new scholarship offerings in the spring of 2024. Through these new and expanded scholarship offerings, undergraduate students can earn multiple “stacking” scholarships to help reduce the cost of their degree.
We are mobilizing all unrestricted scholarship funds to create recruitment scholarship offerings tailored specifically for the areas students are applying for today. In addition, we have created a series of scholarships related to housing and extracurricular activities.
The following graphs outline some of the new scholarships and how stacking them significantly reduces costs for students.
Emporia State University Scholarships 2024
Enhanced Presidential Scholarships
NEW! Residence Hall
INCREASED! Honors College
NEW! Science + Math Educators
NEW! Choir
NEW! Chamber Singers
NEW! String/Orchestra
NEW! Art
NEW! Theatre
NEW! Marching Hornets
NEW! Cheer, Dance, Color Guard
NEW! Varsity Esports
NEW! Legacy
$850-$3,000 Renewable GPA and / or ACT Academic Merit All Majors
$1,000 Returning students $2,000 All Majors
$1,000
$1,000
Renewable with $1,000 increase through Year 3; $9,000 awarded for student teaching semester Education Majors
$2,000+ Increasing to $3,000 (Year 4) All Majors
$750 $375 / semester; Renewable each year
$1,000 Increasing to $1,500 (Year 4)
All Majors
All Majors
$1,000 With qualifying portfolio Art Majors
$1,000 Talent recruitment awards Theatre Majors
$2,000+ Increasing to $3,000 (Year 4) All Majors
$2,000+ Increasing to $3,000 (Year 4) All Majors
$1,200 $600 / semester for varsity players All Majors
$1,000 Renewable (4 year maximum) Child of ESU alum + full-time undergrad All Majors
INCREASED! Jones Success Scholarships $1,000+
Tuition and fees are subject to approval by the Kansas Board of Regents. Tuition and fees shown are approved for the 2024-25 school year. Some course fees may apply. See emporia.edu/tuition.
2Pending final transcripts/official ACT scores.
3 Pending enrollment in MU245 + successful auditions for spirit groups.
Your support can make the difference.
We are using every tool and resource we have available to recruit and retain students at a reasonable cost. But your support is key to our efforts. That’s why we’ve created the ESU Recruitment Scholarship, a highly flexible fund that provides immediate assistance in recruiting new students.
We are asking you to step up like never before. Your gift will help deserving students seize the opportunities higher education makes possible.
Your gift will ensure that no student’s potential is wasted.
Emporia State believes students deserve the opportunity to use their talents, creativity and determination. Our faculty gives them the knowledge and tools they need to fill vital roles in our communities.
In the near future, we will need their talent and energy as health care providers and frontline defenders protecting us from cyber threats, as entrepreneurs building businesses that create jobs and artists and musicians that infuse life with joy and meaning. They will be instrumental to the success of our communities in countless ways, and they deserve the chance to realize their potential.
But right now, they need your help to make the first step possible. Your gift to scholarships will support students today and create the future we all want, one where everyone has the tools they need to succeed, and no one gets left behind.
Will you join us in this important mission? Make a gift today at emporia.edu/give or by check using the envelope provided.
FALL BRINGS NEW HEAD COACHES, ADDED EXCITEMENT FOR THREE ESU PROGRAMS
by Phillip Tutor
When Emporia State University’s Athletic Department begins its crowded fall calendar, three of its teams will debut new head coaches, one of whom will be in his first season as the pilot of a collegiate program.
Veteran coach Tom Billeter, who led Augustana University to the 2016 Division II national championship, has moved to Emporia to lead the Hornets’ men’s basketball team. After two seasons at Missouri University of Science and Technology, Jane GrimleyGunn is now coaching ESU’s women’s soccer program. And Justin Hill, a familiar face around the Hornets’ cross country and track and field teams, has been promoted to coach cross country.
IT’S JUST NEW AND DIFFERENT AND UPCOMING FOR ME. I JUST HAVE THIS NEW JOLT OF ENERGY."
ESU REFRESHES VETERAN BASKETBALL COACH
Though he has worked at six universities scattered across five states, the Hornets’ new men’s basketball coach had never visited ESU’s campus before Vice President/ Director of Athletics David Spafford hired him away from Augustana University in March. It’s an odd twist for an admitted basketball junkie who has coached collegiately since the mid-1980s and in more than a thousand games. That unfamiliarity didn’t diminish Billeter’s interest in replacing Craig Doty, who departed ESU after six seasons for Division I Houston Christian University.
A conversation between Billeter and his friend Brian Ostermann — who happens to be ESU’s women’s basketball coach — led to Spafford luring the two-time national coach of the year away from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where he had enjoyed sustained success for 21 seasons. Though entrenched there, Billeter became intrigued by Ostermann’s comments about the ESU Athletic Department and the basketball program’s possibilities. Ostermann, Billeter believes, “could tell by my voice that I might have an interest in the job.”
At Augustana, Billeter went 393-224 and enjoyed 18 consecutive winning seasons. Nine times he took the Vikings to the NCAA Tournament; his team won the Division II National Championship in 2016, three times won regularseason conference titles and twice more claimed their conference tournament. Overall, he’s won 490 games in 26 seasons as a head coach at Augustana and North Dakota State University. His coaching resume also includes Division I stops at the University of Arizona, Rice University, St. John’s University and Texas A&M University.
ESU, though, offered a refreshing alternative.
“Everything I liked about this was the newness,” said Billeter, a Byron, Illinois, native who graduated from the University of Illinois. “A majority of the athletic staff has been here a short time. It’s just new and different and upcoming for me. I definitely feel challenged. I just have this new jolt of energy.”
Which is good, considering the multitude of tasks that await coaches when they join new teams. Though the Hornets won 19 games last season, a majority of the players have either graduated or transferred. Using the NCAA’s liberalized transfer rules, Billeter has rebuilt ESU’s roster with nine new scholarship players and two walk-ons. Three of the first-year Hornets played for Billeter at Augustana, and three others were Augustana high school recruits. Getting a roster stocked with new players to gel as teammates will be crucial, he said.
“I like the 11 players we brought in,” he said. “I think we brought in talent. We hope to get this thing going fast, but we are going to have to mesh together. And if you are going to build fast, the transfer portal is advantageous.”
Months later, Billeter remains giddy with this sudden change in his career. He happily retells how ESU’s top administrators “painted a really cool picture” about the university and its future when they first met this spring. He’s also eager to compete in the Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association, which he considers the nation’s premier Division II conference.
“There are things we’ll battle this season, but I feel 30 years younger,” he said. “I left a wonderful situation, but I’m walking into another one that has the potential to be even better.”
RISING STAR IN WOMEN’S SOCCER TAKES OVER AS ESU COACH
Grimley-Gunn chuckles today when she recalls her first soccer practice as a head coach. Fresh off a successful playing career at Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware, she took over a club team. Her players weren’t collegians; they were 13 years old. “I love that age group, a great group,” she said. “But my first practice was an absolute disaster.” That, obviously, wasn’t the plan. With meticulous detail, ESU’s new head coach organized the workout as if she were preparing for the World Cup. The day would be fantastic, she believed. Then, chaos. “It was one of those things where everything got crazy, and I'm like, ‘Okay, now I can appreciate the challenge in this.’”
That humorous vignette belies Grimley-Gunn’s reputation as one of collegiate soccer’s rising stars. In 2019, the United Soccer Coaches national organization named her to its “30 under 30” list of promising young coaches. After serving as an assistant at her alma mater, the Franklinville, New Jersey, native earned her first collegiate head-coaching role at Missouri S&T, where she went unbeaten against MIAA competition. Her organizational skills, ability to teach young student-athletes and style of play caught Spafford’s eye.
For a variety of reasons, ESU also caught Grimley-Gunn’s attention.
“From the day I stepped on campus, there was an expectation of results, and the girls knew what they could do,” she said. “They made it really far in the past and they had this belief about winning.”
Expectations remain high with the Hornets, who are coming off a 14-6-4 season but have to replace a number of departing players, most notably Mackenzie Dimarco, a three-time All-American and the MIAA’s all-time leading scorer who led the nation with 23 goals in 2023. If anything, change is the team’s operative word this fall with the arrival of a new coach and young players in new roles.
“The impression we've given the girls, and the girls have given us in return, is that they feel this is their time now,” she said. “We have a really young returning roster, and they want to prove they can do it like the girls who graduated out. There's a bit of hunger and an underdog mentality, but also a bit of realism. It's going to be challenging, there are going to be some growing pains. It might not look perfect right away, but once we get rolling, I think there's a lot of good to be done here.”
THEY FEEL THIS IS THEIR TIME NOW. THERE'S A BIT OF HUNGER AND AN UNDERDOG MENTALITY, BUT ALSO A BIT OF REALISM."
HILL: FROM UNDERSTUDY TO HEAD COACH AT ESU
In a not-so-roundabout way, Hill’s ascension to the corner office of ESU’s cross country program began one day in Andover, Kansas, where the former distance runner at Baker University was teaching high school history. It started with an innocuous question from the school’s athletics director.
“Do you know anything about tennis?” he asked.
Hill didn’t, though he still agreed to become the school’s assistant tennis coach. But that inauspicious introduction to coaching ignited Hill’s passion for mentoring studentathletes and positively affecting their lives. After a number of successful coaching seasons at Andover High School, Hill came to ESU in 2021 as an assistant coach and director of operations for the Hornets’ track and field and cross country teams.
Hill is replacing Dr. Mark Stanbrough, a member of the ESU Athletic Hall of Honor who retired from coaching earlier this year.
“This has kind of been the dream,” Hill said. “This is why I came here. I wanted to coach. I didn’t come in wanting to stay the director of operations forever, because I really enjoy coaching and working with student-athletes. I feel like it's a really exciting time to be part of this program.”
As director of operations for cross country and track and field, much of Hill’s role included managing the Hornets’ equipment and travel plans. He also was instrumental in ESU’s successful hosting of the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships in May. (ESU is hosting the week-long event again in 2026.)
“The best part about my job on the operations side is that I got to work with and get to know all of the (cross country and track and field) athletes,” he said. “I was closest to the cross country athletes, but I got to know everybody because I interacted with everybody.”
I FEEL LIKE IT'S A REALLY EXCITING TIME TO BE PART OF THIS PROGRAM."
Following in the footsteps of the legendary Stanbrough isn’t for the weak-hearted, Hill admits. But his familiarity with the Hornets’ cross country team — and Stanbrough’s coaching reputation — ensures that he won’t be blindsided by the program’s lofty expectations of competing for conference championships and qualifying for national events.
“There were moments where I asked if I was ready for this, but some of that comes from the pressure,” he said. “We've had some great programs in the past here at ESU and within the MIAA. There’s no doubt that I have those nerves, but it’s like I tell our athletes: if you're not nervous, then you don't care. I'm excited for the challenge and excited for that opportunity.”
2024 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.
Diane Beatty
During Diane Beatty’s (BSB 78-Accounting) time as an accounting student at Emporia State, Beatty was a member of the Accounting Club and Phi Beta Lambda. With the knowledge she acquired at ESU, she built a 36-year career with ConocoPhillips, working her way to general manager of their Upstream Financial Services Department, the role she retired from in 2015.
All who know Beatty, know she is profoundly generous. Her gifts have established a number of scholarships and funds — the Diane Beatty School of Business Fund, which supports business faculty; the Thomas Learning Space Capital Outlay Fund, which provides the business school with a technology-based learning environment; the BizHornet HighImpact Learning Opportunity Fund, which supports the BizHornet Center; and the Thomas Scholarship, which promotes educational opportunities to all students. During the Together, Forward campaign, she gifted matching dollars to other donors establishing new funds to support high-impact learning within the School of Business and Technology.
Beatty’s volunteerism and participation touch most corners of campus. She’s served in multiple roles on the ESU Foundation’s Board of Trustees, including as chair of the board. She also serves on the School of Business and Technology Dean’s Advisory Council, the Presidential Search Committee and is a member of the Black & Gold Circle and the President’s Club.
At the heart of her commitment to her alma mater is her desire to pay it forward by assisting today’s students just as she was assisted during her undergraduate days.
Tyler Curtis
Tyler Curtis (BSE 01-English and Social Sciences; MS 04-Educational Administration), ESU’s former director of Alumni Relations and assistant vice president for University Advancement, is steadfastly committed to giving back to his alma mater with his time and talents. As an undergraduate, Curtis was active in Phi Sigma Kappa, Associated Student Government and several leadership organizations. As an alumnus, he’s a member of the Kellogg Society, which honors individuals who have made planned estate gifts to ESU; he’s served as a Day of Giving ambassador; and he received the Outstanding Advocate Award in 2023. He also has assisted in the creation and maintenance of several scholarship funds at ESU.
Today, Curtis is the chief development officer for the Kansas Methodist Foundation and serves as a commissioner for the city of Emporia.
Curtis’ fondness for his years as an ESU student extends beyond the normal recollections of Greek life and Hornets games. He vividly recalls faculty members who went beyond the basic job descriptions of teaching classes and keeping office hours. They cared about students’ well-being and welcomed conversations, he said. If Curtis were to advise today’s students, he’d encourage them to take advantage of the smorgasbord of activities and organizations a university campus offers.
Curtis wants today’s current students and young alumni to recognize the value of the relationship between graduates and their alma mater. Given that graduates can gaze in the rear-view mirror and see the myriad things the university has done for them, he believes they should also welcome opportunities to assist their alma mater.
Linda Hurt
In her hometown of Lyndon, Kansas, Linda Hurt (BSB 77-Accounting) first gained an appreciation for communities that support their youngest residents. That belief in community support underpins Hurt’s commitment to ESU. Now retired from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, Hurt manages the Hurt Family Foundation. She has years of volunteerism and gifts to her undergraduate alma mater that are rooted in that community spirit: first in Lyndon, now in both Emporia and Southlake, Texas, where she lives with her husband, Bill, and is active in charitable endeavors.
Rarely has Hurt missed an opportunity to lend ESU a helping hand. Besides being a member of the President’s Club and Women for ESU, she’s served on the ESU Foundation Board of Trustees. Additionally, she was a lead donor in 2017 to the Dr. John C. Rich Distinguished Accounting Professorship at ESU, and several years ago, she and her husband began the Bill & Linda Hurt and Family Fund.
Hurt’s career path initially brought her to ESU for a reason familiar to the university’s history: She wanted to teach. A talented pianist, Hurt began studying to become a music teacher, but she wasn’t keen on instructing high school marching bands. After switching her focus to teaching business, Dr. Harry Stephens and Dr. William Preston suggested that she consider a career in accounting. Their advice forever altered her life.
Ultimately, it is the desire to assist ESU’s students that has fueled Hurt’s philanthropic efforts at her alma mater. She’s an unabashed champion of the university’s academic mission and its long-time cultivation of first-generation students.
Michael Kennedy Law
Michael Kennedy Law (BSB 81-Business Administration) believes childhood days spent watching the Hornets play football and basketball is where his affection for Emporia State University began.
Despite a successful career as a nationally renowned radio personality and executive that led to enshrinement in both the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame and the Country Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Law has found time to serve his alma mater as the Hornets’ radio play-by-play announcer, a supporter of the President’s Club, and through service on the ESU Foundation Board of Trustees and the School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council. In 2016, ESU honored him with a Distinguished Alumni Award. Now retired, Law remains a constant figure at campus events and Hornet games.
Additionally, Law and his wife, Nycki Law, established a fund in 2020 that provides scholarship assistance to student-athletes with financial needs.
For Law, the symbiotic relationship between the university and the City of Emporia makes it all the more important that ESU alumni support their alma mater.
“When I think Emporia, I think Emporia State,” he said. “The university is a huge economic part of the city. The success of the town is certainly of interest to me, and ESU is a huge part of the community. It’s a connection of all the parts.”
His support of Emporia State University and the community is a way to honor the faculty and administrators who empowered him to become who he is today. He credits them with creating the foundation he used to build a career in which he became a national radio figure. Giving back is a splendid way to empower the next generation of Hornets to create their own similar success stories.
To read more or nominate someone for this honor, visit emporia.edu/servicecitations
Spotlight on Alumni
1930s
The Late Coach Bill Freeman (BSE 53-Biology), Le Roy, had a book written in his memory by daughter, Jennifer Freeman, titled "Heart of a Champion: The Life and Legacy of Coach Bill Freeman." Coach Freeman, ESU Athletics Hall of Fame recipient, had five of the high school football players he coached go into the NFL.
1950s
Dr. Carmen Dressler Ward (BSE 54-Elementary Education), Durham, N.C., composed a hymn that was premiered at a worship service of a large international conference of the United Methodist Church (800+ delegates from around the world). She was also recently named a finalist for the annual Poetry of the Plains and Prairies (POPP) Award sponsored by NDSU Press, for her collection of 33 poems.
Jane H. (Hanna) Reeble (BSE 53-Teacher Education), Emporia, was named the 2024 Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Emporia.
1960s
Dr. Rainer Martens (BSE 64-Physical Education), Ormond Beach, Fla., is retiring in December 2024 as CEO and co-founder of Pictona, a pickleball complex at Holly Hill. Rainer and wife, Julie, received a Corporate Citizen of the Year award from the city of Holly Hill in 2022.
Dr. Ron L. Slaymaker (BSE 60-Physical Education; MS 62-Physical Education), Emporia, has been named the new Topeka High girls basketball coach.
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 student scholarships 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
1970s
Gary C. Allerheiligen (BSB 70-Accounting), Wichita, has been named interim president and CEO of the Emporia State University Foundation.
Coach Dave Bingham (BS 72-Physical Education; MS 73-Physical Education), Oro Valley, Ariz., was a 2024 inductee into the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.
Terry (BSE 77-Biology) and Ann (Cameron) Holt (BSB 80-Business Administration), Marion, published a book titled "My Lord And My God! My Spiritual Awakening To The Joy Of The Cross." Their book came about following Terry's two near death experiences in 2018. The book includes 50 black and white Ansel Adams-like photos Terry had taken over the years in the United States, Costa Rica, and New Zealand. Each photo is accompanied by spiritual reflections given to both Terry and Ann.
Jeff A. Hulse (BSE 77-Physical Education; MS 90-Curriculum & Instruction), Rockport, Texas, was selected for induction into the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) Hall of Fame class of 2024.
Dr. Mike C. Manning (BS 71-Psychology, Political Science), Paradise Valley, Ariz., was awarded the coveted 2024 Judge Learned Hand Award by the American Jewish Committee in Arizona. The annual award is presented to outstanding leaders in the legal profession who exemplify high principles with a history of unique professional successes that benefit their local communities.
Dennis B. Neff (BSE 74-Physical Science; MS 77-Physical Science), Edmond, Okla., and brother, Warren H. Neff (BS 77-Physics; MS 80-Physics), Bartlesville, Okla., have been working on a research project since summer 2023 involving a new waveform and crossplot technique, along with other seismic attributes, to generate a quantitive prediction of hydrocarbon volume (HPV) in the rock layer.
Mike L. Petitjean (BSE 70-Business Education; MS 78-Business Education), Emporia, was the first recipient of the PSK Excellence in Service Award by the Phi Sigma Kappa Alpha Epsilon chapter at Founders Day 2024.
Rev. Ron Stair (BA 73-Mathematics), Hiawatha, was named, in June 2024, as the first recipient of the Walter Cahoon Award for the Most Outstanding Regional Chaplain by the Jaycee Senate Regional Area of Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado and New Mexico.
Margene K. (Zumbrunn) Swarts (BSB 75-English), Lawrence, was named one of the inaugural 2024 Lawrence Transit Poets Laureate.
Chief Judge Merlin G. Wheeler (BA 74-Political Science), Emporia, has received the Phil Lewis Medal of Distinction from the Kansas Bar Association.
1980s
Dr. Andrew H. Campbell (BS 84-Rehabilitation Counseling), Omaha, Neb., has been included in Marquis Who's Who for his expertise in peace leadership, dark leadership and conflict management education and training.
Karen T. (Dowell) Creighton (BSE 85-French, Spanish), Atwater, Calif., retired on June 14, 2024, from Merced Union High School District, Livingston High School as a school counselor after 38 years in education. She relocated to north central Arkansas.
Joseph M. "Joe" Hoefgen (BSE 86-Social Services), Long Beach, Calif., has come out of retirement for two interim city manager appointments.
Linda S. Kehres-Schmidt (BS 89-Sociology), Emporia, has been named the next leader of the Emporia Community Foundation.
Michael "Mike" Knecht (BSB 89-Business Administration; MLS 92-Library Science), Corydon, Ky., was promoted to chief academic officer at Henderson Community College.
Judy L. (Becker) Lienemann (BSB 81-Business Administration), Atchison, has retired after 30 years working as a tax preparer for H&R Block.
Debra L. (McDougal) Spade (BSE 82-Physical Education; MS 01-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Holton, has retired from education after 21 years of service.
New job? Recently retired? Newly married? New addition to your family? Need to update your information? Visit emporia.edu/alumni/request-information.html
Brad Stratton (BSB 86-Business Administration), Overland Park, had his second four-year term reappointment confirmed as a member of the KPERS Board of Trustees by the Senate Confirmation Oversight Committee.
Annie R. (Browning) Wilson (CRT 82-English), Elmdale, has completed a new album with Songwriting Express called "Out on the Tallgrass Prairie."
Mike Yamauchi-Gleason (BSE 80-Elementary Education; MSE 81-Counselor Education), Fort Collins, Colo., has retired after 44 years as a higher education administrator. The last 23 years he served as the senior director for college student life at the University of California - Santa Cruz.
1990s
COL Regena M. (Bailey) Aye (MA 98-History), Osage City, has been named the national commander and CEO of the Civil Air Patrol.
Ross R. Bjork (BS 95-Recreation), Columbus, Ohio, was named the new athletic director for The Ohio State University.
Jeri A. Brummet (BSE 93-Biology, Physical Education), Manhattan, logged her 300th win this year as a 24-year softball coach at Rock Creek High School, USD 323, in St. George, Kansas.
Tasha L. (Vaughn) Bucher (BSB 97-Business Administration), Wichita, has been promoted to senior vice president and trust officer at The Trust Company of Kansas.
Allison "Alli" Chase (MLS 90-Library Science), Mukwonago, Wisc., received the 2023 Concerned Citizen of the Year award from the Wisconsin Art Education Association.
Ronald L. "Ron" Frierson, Jr. (BS 96-Social Sciences), Los Angeles, Calif., received the Visionary Award at the 2024 Whitney M. Young, Jr. Awards Gala by the Los Angeles Urban League.
Bonita L. "Bunny" Higgins (BS 91-Rehabilitation Service Education; MS 91-Rehabilitation Counseling), Olathe, has been honored by Marquis Who's Who for her expertise in the nonprofit sector.
Dr. William E. "Bill" Jensen (MS 99-Biology), Topeka, has been named the 2024 Roe R. Cross Distinguished Professor at Emporia State University.
Jon E. Johnson (BSE 90-Social Sciences), Cheney, has retired as a secondary social studies teacher after 32 years of service.
Maggi (Studer) Kennedy (BSE 93-Elementary Education), Frankfort, retired as a teacher from Vermillion USD 380 at the close of 2024.
Laurel A. Littrell (MLS 97-Library Science), Manhattan, has been appointed associate dean of research and education of K-State libraries.
Christopher A. Mercer (BS 97-Sociology), Marion, was selected as the Kansas Arson Investigator of the Year.
Brian Richardson (BSB 92-Business Administration), Salina, was honored for his contributions to the City of Salina with a statue.
Dr. Steven B. Scraggs (BSE 96-Social Sciences), Lees Summit, Mo., has been named Maui Family YMCA's new chief executive officer.
Kerith A. "Keri" (Thomas) Shimkus (BSB 91-Finance), Clayton, N.C., was promoted to credit administration officer at North State Bank.
Takama C. Statton-Brooks (BS 99-Rehabilitation Services Education), Springdale, Ark., has been named the new executive director of Magdalene Serenity House.
2000s
Dr. Christi (Garrison) Adams (MS 06-Curriculum & Instruction), Atchison, has been named the 2024 Distinguished Educator of the Year at Benedictine College.
Brian E. Ebert (BS 00-Recreation; BSE 00-Health Education), Frankfort, has been named Sports in Kansas 1A-I Girls Coach of the Year.
Dr. Michael G. Estes (BSE 03-Elementary Education), Independence, Mo., is the new superintendent of South Harrison R-II School District.
Drew P. Evans (MLS 05-Library Science), Topeka, received national recognition by the American Library Association for his book reviews on the sport of pickleball and has become known as the Pickleball Librarian.
Carla J. Fessler (BSE 00-Elementary Education; MS 04-Curriculum & Instruction; MS 06-Counselor Education), Emporia, accepted the role of interim director of the Emporia Senior Center.
Patrick B. Graham (MS 04-Educational Administration), Overbrook, has been named the new assistant principal at Lawrence High School.
Tamara L. (Shafer) Horner (BSB 04-Business Administration), Lawrence, has began a new position as military and veterans affairs benefits coordinator at the University of Kansas.
Dr. Taylor L. (Relph) Kriley (BFA 09-Communication, Public Relations; MS 11-School Counseling), Emporia, was named vice president for student success at Emporia State University.
Dr. Jessica (Noll) Nelson (MS 09-Special Education), Manhattan, has been named the new director of special education for Manhattan-Ogden USD 383.
Eric A. Peterson (BSB 08-Managment), Lincolnville, has been named president of Iowa Speedway for NASCAR.
Jeremy J. Rusco (BSB 06-Business Administration), Emporia, has been inducted into the Kansas Flying Disc Association Hall of Fame.
Curtis L. Stevens (MS 07-Educational Administration), Salina, was named the new superintendent for North Ottawa County Schools for the 2024-2025 school year.
Sarah A. (Garcia) Tschauder (MS 04-Biology), Atchison, was inducted into the Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame on June 1, 2024.
Andrew J. "Andy" Vogelsberg (BS 07-Earth Science), McPherson, has been inducted into the MIAA Hall of Fame.
Matthew R. Wallace (BSB 09-Management), Celina, Texas, has been promoted to senior vice president, Texas director of commercial real estate at Security National Bank of Texas.
2010s
Jessica A. Brown (BSE 13-Elementary Education; MS 20-Curriculum & Instruction; MS 23-Educational Administration), Lawrence, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
Derek P. Carlson (MS 12-Educational Administration), Lyons, has been named the next 6-12 principal for the Ogden Community School District.
Lindsey Dowell (MS 12-Special Education), Topeka, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
Tyler W. Harris (BSB 18-Marketing; MBA 20-Business Administration), Kearney, Neb., has been named the new wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator for the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
Matthew C. Hinkley (BS 15-Health Promotion), Chandler, Ariz., has been named a minor league pitching coordinator for the Chicago CubsArizona.
Matthew A. Irby (BSE 04-Biology; MS 13-Biology; MS 13-Educational Administration), Emporia, along with ESU's associate professor of aquatic ecology and biology education, Dr. Erika Martin, was awarded the Chickadee Checkoff grant to renovate the pond at Emporia High School, USD 253.
Serena L. Jeffery (BID 13-BID/BIS Degree), Emporia, has been hired as the first administrator to manage Little Lyons Childcare.
Chuck L. Kern (MS 11-Educational Administration Prek-12), Rawlins, Wyo., has been hired as the new assistant director of instruction for Laramie County School District #1.
Kala K. Maxfield (BSB 14-Business Administration), Emporia, has been named executive director for engagement at Emporia State University.
Kaila Mock (BFA 13-Art), Emporia, received the 2024 Mary Headrick Award for promoting the growth of women at Emporia State University and in the Emporia community.
Sara L. (Reichenberger) Murray (MS 16-Curriculum & Instruction; MS 17-Educational Administration), Lawrence, has been named the new assistant principal of Billy Mills Middle School in USD 497 Lawrence.
Jessica Nelson (MS 10-Early Childhood Education), Junction City, has been named the new special education director for USD 383.
Morgan R. Pearson (BSE 11-Math Middle Level License (5-8); MS 20-Educational Administration), Emporia, has been selected as an assistant principal at Emporia Middle School.
Taylor M. Scott (BSE 15-Physical Education; MS 17-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Emporia, has been named the new head coach for Emporia High School girls basketball.
Taylour R. B. Tedder (BS 11-Economics), Rehoboth Beach, Del., is the new city manager of Rehoboth Beach.
Erica J. (Lauppe) Threatt (BSE 13-Elementary Education; MS 20-Curriculum & Instruction), Liberal, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
Courtney D. (Williams) Wagner (BS 18-Sociology), Marion, opened a boutique called "Jet Set Clothing Co." in Marion, Kansas.
Kevin J. Wempe (BSB 11-Business Administration, Financial Services), Kansas City, Mo., director and shareholder in the Kansas City office at Gilmore & Bell, P.C., was named one of the "20 to Know in the Legal Industry" for 2024 by the Kansas City Business Journal.
Danica E. White (BS 17-History; MLS 19-Library Science) Washington, D.C.., was named the first year engagement librarian at Howard University.
Lauren E. (Sharp) Wiggins (BID 12-BID/ BIS), St Louis, Mo., has opened her own bridal shop in Webster Groves called Tailored Bridal.
Aubrey J. (Near) Wilson (BA 14-Theatre), Emporia, is the new director of theatre at Emporia State University.
2020s
Aric T. Baloun (MACC 22-Accountancy), Sioux Falls, S.D., has earned his CPA and is being recognized by the South Dakota Board of Accountancy for having passed all examination parts on the first attempt.
Jessica M. Buchanan (MS 20-Curriculum & Instruction), Wichita, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
Michelle L. Decker (MS 23-Forensic Science), Mayetta, has started a new position as death investigator for the Shawnee County Coroner's Office.
Mackenzie R. Dimarco (BS 23-Rehabilitation & Disability Studies), Pleasant Hill, Mo., was recognized as one of the five finalists for the Ken B. Jones Award.
Jody S. Schmidt (MS 23-Educational Administration), Goessel, was named the new principal for Goessel Elementary, USD 411 Goessel.
Jackson D. Schneider (BSE 22-Social Sciences), Marion, has become the new play-by-play announcer for Newman Sports on Jets Audio Network.
Cole J. Schumacher (BS 22-Health & Human Performance), Maple Hill, has been hired as the new receivers coach for the football program at Henderson State University in Arkansas.
Subasree Srinivasanarayanan Rajagopalan (MS 23-Information Technology), Herndon, Va., is a new customer service technician for the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
Justin L. Tucek (BS 20-History; MS 22-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Emporia, has joined Southern Arkansas University as assistant coach for men's basketball.
Andrew J. "Andy" Vogelsberg (BS 07-Earth Science), McPherson, has been inducted into the MIAA Hall of Fame.
Former Students
Rick L. Bloomquist, Topeka, has stepped down as the head boys basketball coach at Topeka West, after 48 years of coaching.
Taylor S. Bussinger, Lawrence, was named the 2024 Kansas Teacher of the Year by the Kansas State Department of Education.
Laura J. Caillouet-Weiner, Humboldt, has retired from teaching after 42 years of service.
Mickey L. (Laurendine) Edwards, Emporia, is the new executive director for SOS, Inc.
Jennifer C. (Flannigan) Fallin, Manhattan, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
Sara B. (Rusnak) Hoffman, Olathe, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
Jeff S. Longbine, Emporia, has announced his retirement from the Kansas State Senate after 14 years representing District 17.
Bre A. (Bowzer) McGranahan, Olathe, has been named a 2024 Kansas Master Teacher.
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.
Grace Linck (BSB 22) and Derek Bair, May 4, 2024
ESU Retirements
Marjorie Bock, Overland Park, retired on July 3, 2024, after 16 years, ending her career as a professor in Elementary Education, Early Childhood and Special Education.
Joan Brewer, Emporia, retired on August 2, 2024, after 22 years, ending her career as professor in Health, Physical Education & Recreation.
Cathy Grover, Americus, retired on May 11, 2024, after 24 years, ending her career as associate professor in Psychology.
Rex Hall, Olpe, retired on June 10, 2024, after 19 years, ending his career as physical plant supervisor in University Facilities.
Linda Huddlestun, Americus, retired on March 30, 2024, after 24 years, ending her career as custodial supervisor in the ESU Memorial Union.
Karla Ingold, Emporia, retired on March 18, 2024, after 30 years, ending her career as accountant in Physical Plant Administration.
Diana Kuhlmann, Olpe, retired on June 7, 2024, after 30 years, ending her career as senior vice president, university planning and KBOR relations in Administration and Finance.
TAG… You’re
Mary Mitsui, Lawrence, retired on June 8, 2024, after 30 years, ending her career as assistant dean and professor in Nursing.
Chris Parks, Osage City, retired on March 19, 2024, after 18 years, ending her career as administrative specialist in University Facilities.
Tanya Porter, Cottonwood Falls, retired on March 16, 2024, after 12 years, ending her career as custodial specialist in the Singular/Trusler Complex.
Lynnette Schreiner, Olpe, retired on June 8, 2024, after 30 years, ending her career as professor in Nursing.
Michael Seely, Emporia, retired on June 21, 2024, after 37 years, ending his career as assistant director of facilities in the ESU Memorial Union.
Amy Welch, Overland Park, retired on May 15, 2024, after 20 years, ending her career as academic program specialist in Elementary Education, Early Childhood and Special Education.
Gary Wyatt, Emporia, retired on May 21, 2024, after 35 years, ending his career as associate provost, dean and associate professor in the Honors College.
Births
Emersyn Jo James, daughter, born to Faithanne (Burgoon) and Nicholas James, September 26, 2022
Baylor Ward, son, born to Courtney (Kuhlmann) (BS 12, MBA 16) and Willie Ward, January 12, 2023
Caison Chip Webster, son, born to Cailin (Caldwell) (BID 18) and Zackary Webster, February 11, 2023
Magnolia Kay Hoyle, daughter, born to Melissa Hoyle (BSE 15, MS 23), February 20, 2023
Hank Barger, son, born to Tim (BSB 07, MBA 14) and Erin Barger, March 29, 2023
Romily Arlen Cornelius, daughter, born to Ashleigh (Swanson) (MS 11) and Marcus Cornelius, May 22, 2023
Brextyn Thomas Hopkins, son, born to Amanda (Dutton) (BA 06) and Matthew Hopkins, August 7, 2023
Genevieve Rene Cauthon, daughter, born to Cameron (BSB 11, MBA 13) and Michelle (Trejo) Cauthon (BA 13), August 10, 2023
Callum Dean Brubaker, son, born to Allison Linsey (BSE 19), August 21, 2023
Grace Elizabeth Strathman, daughter, born to Carolyn "Cara" (Lohkamp) (BFA 13, MS 22) and Patrick Strathman, August 23, 2023
Jett Wilson Johns, son, born to Julia (Wilson) (BID 12) and Jeremy Johns, September 22, 2023
Myah Marie Bridgewater, daughter, born to Makenzie (Ochoa) (BSE 20) and Adam Bridgewater, October 9, 2023
Hank Pauly, son, born to Logan (Rice) (BSN 15) and Andrew Pauly, October 16, 2023
Lorraine Birdie Lee, daughter, born to Fionna (Colpan) (BSB 17, MBA 18) and Gail Lee, October 20, 2023
Izzy Parks, daughter, born to Emmy (Edie) (BSB 12, MS 13) and Jordan Parks, October 31, 2023
Rory Alma Lavin, daughter, born to Erin Hutto-Lavin (MS 23) and Mike Lavin, November 5, 2023
Zhuri Caceres, daughter, born to Lexie (Thomas) (BS 18) and Marc Caceres, November, 28, 2023
Zade Kenneth Cinelli-Paul, son, born to McKenzie Cinelli and William Paul, December 1, 2023
Rori Mae Hodges, daughter, born to Shelby (Deghand) (BSE 17) and Jonny Hodges, December 21, 2023
Parker Grace Pedersen, daughter, born to Rachel (Marshall) (BS 14) and Jordan Pedersen, December 31, 2023
Rowan Anthony Porter, son, born to Eric (BSB 12) and Haley (Gilman) Porter (BA 17), February 7, 2024
Maizey Mae Minden, daughter, born to Megan (Manes) (BS 20) and Kody Minden, February 7, 2024
Josephine Wharton, daughter, born to Karoline (Kennedy) (BSB 20) and Easton Wharton, February 8, 2024
Sophia Leeanne Brown, daughter, born to Steven (BS 18) and Madison (Schultz) Brown (BS 22), February 14, 2024
Parker Louise Hinkley, daughter, born to Matt (BS 15) and Taylor (Saucerman) Hinkley (BSB 18), February 15, 2024
Sullivan Joseph Schneider, son, born to Benjamin and Brandi (Siebnaler) Schneider (BSE 16), February 17, 2024
Bennett Younger Wilson, son, born to Audrey (Near) (BA 14) and Nicholas Wilson, February 28, 2024
Liam Gregory Rosales, son, born to April (Huddleston) (BSE 08, MS 10) and Mallory Rosales, February 29, 2024
Samuel McCullough-Wilson, son, born to Rachel (Enix) (BID 15, MLS 17) and Jesse McCullough-Wilson, March 6, 2024
Claire Thomsen, daughter, born to Aaron (BS 12) and Jennifer (Cheray) Thomsen (BSB 12), April 2, 2024
Kinley Campbell McBroom, daughter, born to Ryan (BS 17) and Kylie (Campbell) McBroom, April 24, 2024
Thalia Rose Caldwell, daughter, born to Robert "Robbie" Jr. (FS) and Maria Caldwell, April 26, 2024
Oliver Wayne Parris, son, born to Derek (BSB 16) and Madeleine Parris, April 26, 2024
Piper Jo Tetuan, daughter, born to Jacob (BSB 17, MBA 19) and Jordan Tetuan, April 28, 2024
August Nicholas "Auggie" Schroeder, son, born to Ian (BS 10, MS 16) and Ashley (Bohn) Schroeder (BA 08, MS 10), April 29, 2024
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
In Memoriam
1940s
Betty (Beem) Cline (BSB 46), Shawnee, May 14, 2024
Curtis M. Rhoades (BSE 43), Emporia, May 9, 2024
Wanda E. (Rector) Rose (BME 44), Lincoln, March 23, 2024
Vesta M. (Seacat) Strader (LIF 45), Bucklin, June 18, 2024
Marion S'Lee (Choate) Stuart (BSE 47, MS 66), Clay Center, Feb. 2, 2024
1950s
Arinetta M. Bolton (BS 57), Salina, April 12, 2024
Mary J. (Stewart) Burnett (BS 50, MS 56), Topeka, Jan. 6, 2024
Carolyn R. (Carmichael) Carlson (BS 55), Emporia, Jan. 24, 2024
Peter J. Catanese (BSB 56), Hazel Green, Ala., Oct. 22, 2023
Robert D. "Bob" Coffman (BSE 51, MS 67), Wichita, Feb. 22, 2024
Forrest K. Crawford (BSB 50), Overland Park, Oct. 31, 2021
Jerry R. Demo (BA 53), Lenexa, June 10, 2024
Evelyn C. (Bradshaw) Grant (BSE 54), Wheat Ridge, Colo., Jan. 10, 2024
Gilbert A. Green (BSE 52), Abilene, March 18, 2024
Leanna (Waln) Harrison (BSE 56), Sunrise Beach, Mo., May 24, 2024
Carol A. (Smethers) Hart (BSE 52), Eureka, May 5, 2024
Gladys M. Hogg (BSE 56, MS 64), Kansas City, Mo., March 26, 2024
Norman D. Holthouse (BS 59, MS 64), Anchorage, Alaska, Feb. 27, 2024
Robert L. "Bob" Howard (BA 52), Wichita, April 23, 2024
Doris J. (Kind) Hurtig (BSE 50), Topeka, March 23, 2024
Evan L. Lindquist (BSE 58), Jonesboro, Ark., Dec. 18, 2023
Charles H. McCollum (BSB 57), Ponca City, Okla., June 3, 2024
Frederick M. Moore (BSB 51, MS 58), Effingham, Ill., June 16, 2024
Dr. Glen A. Newkirk (BSE 53, MS 56), Omaha, Neb., Jan. 9, 2024
Mary Lou (Jones) Pearson (BSE 59, MS 69), Neosho Rapids, Jan. 5, 2024
Marylee (Kiene) Phillips (BSE 54), Emporia, April 29, 2024
Dr. Gene E. Plank (BSE 58, MS 62), Emporia, May 14, 2024
Dr. Carl W. Prophet (BSE 55, MS 57), Emporia, Feb. 3, 2024
Lois F. (Duffy) Quimby (LIF 51), Nebraska City, Neb., May 16, 2024
Gweneth E. (McDonald) Reeder (BSE 53), Caldwell, Feb. 7, 2024
Evelyn J. Rees (BSE 52, MS 62), Caldwell, Feb. 22, 2024
Dale E. Strobel (BSE 50, MS 66), Hiawatha, June 12, 2024
Vernon J. Switzer (BSE 52), Bloomington, Ill., Feb. 10, 2024
Mary J. (Quaintance) Wegley (BSB 55), Santa Ana, Calif., June 1, 2024
Gerald L. Witten (BSE 56, MS 58, EDS 62), Emporia, April 20, 2024
1960s
George H. Adams (MS 62), Overland Park, April 30, 2024
Rodney K. Alderson (BSE 63, MS 70), De Soto, June 24, 2023
Lynn J. Aldrich (BS 62, MS 70), Hutchinson, Jan. 26, 2024
Dorothy L. (Wells) Anderson (MS 65), Leavenworth, March 31, 2024
Carolyn A. (Gaunt) Anschutz (BSE 66), Inman, May 2, 2024
LaVerna A. (Bergsten) Arganbright (BSE 61), Waterville, May 29, 2024
Leslie P. "Les" Atkinson (BS 63, MS 74), Lawrence, Jan. 31, 2024
Lyle D. Barker (BS 63), Chapman, Feb. 22, 2024 (CPL Ret.) Clyde K. "Kenny" Bell (BA 61), Lee's Summit, Mo., June 17, 2024
Ruth L. (Jacobs) Bogart (BSE 68), Olathe, Jan. 10, 2024
Grace L. (Triemer) Borders (BS 62), Las Vegas, Nev., April 4, 2024
Jimme D. "Jim" Brown (MS 67), Jonesboro, Ark., April 2, 2024
Mason R. Caywood (BSB 60), Kingman, Feb. 22, 2024
Janet L. (O'Connor) Dawson (BSE 65), Ruston, La., Jan. 30, 2024
Morris K. Dunlap (BSB 68), Wichita, Feb. 24, 2024
Keren E. (Lowman) Duran (BSE 62), Overland Park, May 6, 2024
Garry O. Eckert (BSE 67, MS 70), Olathe, Jan. 17, 2024
Dr. David K. Goering (BA 61, MS 64), El Dorado, April 21, 2024
Galen J. Graff (BSE 63), Kinsley, April 26, 2024
Judith D. "Judy" (Brink) Grant (BSE 68, MS 74), Bella Vista, Ark., March 26, 2024
Robert A. Graves (BSE 65), Hutchinson, June 17, 2024
Andrew H. "Howard" Happ (BSE 60, MS 65), Overland Park, Feb. 21, 2024
Jack L. Haughn (BSE 62, MS 70), Peoria, Ariz., June 7, 2024
Mary R. (Petefish) Haynes (MLS 64), Irving, Texas, March 23, 2024
Arthur A. Hoch (MS 66), McPherson, March 27, 2024
Harold E. Howard (BSE 68), Caney, Jan. 24. 2024
Martha Jarvis (MA 65), Alexandria, Va., May 6, 2024
Harry D. "Dean" Johnson (MA 69), Wichita, January 31, 2024
Dennis G. Jones (BSB 62), Broken Arrow, Okla., Dec. 31, 2023
Donald L. "Don" Kile (BME 63, MS 68, EDS 71), Topeka, Feb. 28. 2024
Dennis W. Lebbin (BSB 68), Ellinwood, April 19, 2024
Berdeen C. (Bauck) Manteufel (BSE 60, MS 66), Overland Park, April 5, 2024
Ina J. "Janie" (Carpenter) McDonald (BSE 62), Overland Park, April 20, 2023
Sara P. McDonald (MS 67), Wichita, Jan. 30, 2024
Jan L. Minor (BA 64), Burlington, Conn., April 11, 2024
Stephen A. "Steve" Mitchell (BA 66), Spring Hill, May 4, 2024
Lance L. Nichols (BSE 67), Dodge City, March 9, 2024
Norman L. Pankratz (MS 61), Newton, May 13, 2024
Marian L. (Gale) Poe (BSB 69), Sterling, May 31, 2024
Dr. Patricia K. "Patty" (Miller) Pressman (MS 69), Topeka, June 3, 2024
Ralph K. Reitz (BSB 67), Lawrence, April 5, 2024
Francis M. "Bud" Roller (MS 68), Wichita, Feb. 13, 2024
Dr. Melvin R. Roy (BSE 61, MA 68), Hilton Head Island, S.C., May 18, 2024
Howard J. Schmidt (MS 68), Newton, April 13, 2024
Leonard L. "Len" Schnittker (BSE 65), Brawley, Calif., Feb. 13, 2024
Kathleen "Kathy" (Kavanaugh) Sheldon (BSE 69), Ottawa, March 25, 2024
Marianne F. (Rogers) Smith (BSE 67), Arkansas City, May 28, 2024
Dr. John L. Somer (MA 60), Chicago, Ill., April 23, 2024
Paul W. Southwick (MS 66), Nowata, Okla., Feb. 19, 2023
Gary L. Soyez (BSB 66), El Dorado, Jan. 29, 2024
Jerry G. Stahl (BSE 63), Omaha, Neb., May 8, 2024
Peggy A. (North) Stenstrom (BSE 62, MS 72), White City, March 7, 2024
Ginger K. (Sayre) Strong (BSE 66), Grapevine, Texas, March 9, 2024
Thomas W. Talbot (BSB 66), Marysville, Jan. 21, 2024
Garry G. Teghtmeyer (BME 69), Scottsbluff, Neb., Feb. 22, 2024
Jean A. (Schuster) Tevis (MLS 69), Topeka, May 30, 2024
LaVon C. (Chickadonz) Walker (BSE 68), Parsons, May 16, 2024
Edward V. Washington (BSE 62), Carson, Calif., Oct. 13, 2023
Florence K. (Lear) West (BSE 64), Punxsutawney, Pa., April 18, 2024
Charles A. White (BSE 66, MA 72), Atlanta, Ga., March 7, 2024
Don C. Wilhelm (BSE 61, MS 63), Grambury, Texas, Jan. 4, 2024
Charles E. "Chuck" Williams (BSB 69), Phoenix, Ariz., May 26, 2024
Joyce A. (Yount) Wolking (BSE 63), Garden City, May 12, 2024
Thomas F. "Tom" Zorn (BSE 66), Herndon, Va., Feb. 14, 2024
David R. Zornes (BSE 69, MS 72), Edmond, Okla., March 17, 2024
1970s
Davy E. Babb (BS 77), Las Vegas, Nev., Feb. 12, 2024
Francis M. "Frank" Bavero (BA 71), San Antonio, Texas, May 2, 2024
Kenneth W. Bechtel (BA 70), Olathe, June 10, 2024
Linda I. (Farrar) Bierley (BSE 71), Topeka, May 11, 2024
Sandra K. "Sandi" (Stolzer) Blush (BSB 71), Topeka, March 13, 2024
Marjorie H. (Hancock) Bolles (BS 78), Boise, Idaho, April 20, 2024
Vernon E. "Rick" Buck (BA 75), Emporia, Jan. 30, 2024
David W. Bunce (BSB 78), Kansas City, Jan. 15, 2024
Rosemary (Gunn) Clark (BSE 72), Tulsa, Okla., April 5, 2024
Carla J. (Bonde) Clark (BSE 76), Mulvane, March 4, 2024
Farzaneh (Taheri) Coffey (BS 76), Independence, Mo., May 26, 2024
Janet M. (Hermes) Day (BSB 79), Overland Park, March 17, 2024
James L. "Jim" DeSelms (BSE 71), Topeka, April 30, 2024
Beverly K. Dewater (MS 72), Winfield, Jan. 8, 2024
Sandra L. (Damman) Eickhoff (BSE 75), Fall City, Neb., March 1, 2024
Paul R. Everett (BSB 71), Topeka, April 23, 2024
Kenneth W. Franz (MS 71), Newton, June 22, 2024
Peter Friesen (MS 73, MS 81), Manitoba, Conn., June 11, 2024
Charles A. "Chuck" Gibson (MS 75), Eugene, Ore., March 11, 2024
Jill K. (Davenport) Graves (BSE 74), Portland, Maine, Jan. 2, 2024
David A. Hallenbeck (BA 71), Patakasha, Ohio, Jan. 11, 2024
William R. Hills (BGS 77), Wichita, March 19, 2024
Bernard H. "Bernie" Hund (BA 73), Leavenworth, April 23, 2024
Joyce L. (Hall) Hutton (MS 73), Sabetha, March 29, 2024
Jerry W. Jefferis (BSE 70), Paola, March 20, 2024
Jacquelyn M. (Slaughter) Johannes (BSE 77), North Little Rock, Ark., Jan. 29, 2024
Stephen K. Larson (BSB 71), The Villages, Fla., April 3, 2024
John E. Lederer (BSB 74), Valley Falls, March 3, 2024
Ernest C. "Ernie" Lefebvre (BSB 74, MS 77), Centennial, Colo., Jan. 23, 2024
Betty J. (Wilson) McCord (BSB 73), Topeka, March 22, 2024
Jerry H. McDaniel (BA 70), Liberal, Jan. 11, 2024
Billy D. Means (MS 75), Wichita, Feb. 29, 2024
Jerry L. Mentzer (BSB 71), Yates Center, May 10, 2024
Gary M. Merchant (BSB 77), Olathe, June 1, 2024
Dwight O. Metcalf (BSB 74), Emporia, March 20, 2024
Laurel J. "Jim" Miller (BSB 73), Springfield, Mo., Feb. 21, 2024
Charles G. "Chuck" Monroe (BSE 79), Salina, June 9, 2024
Norma J. "Jeannie" (Laster) Padgett (BSE 71), Shawnee, March 5, 2024
Keith W. Pennebaker (BS 73), Westphalia, Feb. 18, 2024
Homer L. Pritchard (MS 75), Emporia, Nov. 17, 2023
Mark E. Say (BS 74), Emporia, Jan. 26, 2024
Laura M. "Laurie" (Lunsford) Schlobohm (MS 71), Stillwater, Okla., March 7, 2024
Louis A. "Joe" Schooler (BSB 72), Saint Charles, Mo., April 14, 2024
Harry L. Sinclair (BSB 76), Iola, April 17, 2024
Mark L. Stone (BA 72), Wichita, March 19, 2024
Charles R. Summers (BSB 73), Newton, April 10, 2024
Lloyd E. Sumner (BSE 70), Waverly, April 2, 2024
Karen I. (Hall) Van Kirk (MLS 71), Corpus Christi, Texas, June 5, 2024
DeWayne R. Walls (BSB 72), Great Bend, April 30, 2024
Gary D. Waters (BA 70), Cherryvale, Feb. 18, 2024
Leonard L. Winquist (BSB 71), Spartansburg, S.C., June 11, 2024
Sue E. (Davidson) Woydziak (BSB 73), Emporia, April 9, 2024
Bonnie E. Wylie (BSE 71, MS 73), Lawrence, Jan. 17, 2024
Donald E. Zimmerman (BSB 70), Topeka, April 22, 2024
1980s
Paul A. Boese (BSB 83), Olathe, Jan. 2, 2024
Janet M. (Brummel) Brassart (BSE 88, MA 97), Emporia, June 11, 2024
Darla T. (Hogan) Cahoone (BSE 93), Emporia, June 13, 2024
Robin R. Figgs (BSE 87), Topeka, March 30, 2024
Sandra L. (Bonewits) Gunkel (BSB 84), Shawnee, June 12, 2024
Virginia S. Hatfield (MLS 80), Wichita, May 12, 2024
Ruth M. (Ramsey) Higgins (MLS 88), Overland Park, Feb. 2, 2024
Terry D. Jones (BSB 86), Burlington, May 7, 2024
Janine E. (Moore) Lee (BS 82, MS 83), Atlanta, Ga., Feb. 28, 2024
James D. "Jim" Loeffelbein (BSB 88), Amarillo, Texas, June 12, 2024
Jean L. (Unruh) McCool (MS 83), Osawatomie, March 22, 2024
Janice L. (Batho) Mueller (MS 80), Overland Park, March 26, 2024
Ella F. Oentrich (BSE 80), Barnes, Jan. 12, 2024
Martha J. (Knapp) Palmer (BSE 83, MS 85), Topeka, Feb. 14, 2024
Cynthia A. "Cindy" Reed-Buettner (BSB 87), Shawnee, March 15, 2024
Jane M. Schenck (BSB 84), Abilene, March 19, 2024
Cynthia R. (Tolar) Schierling (MLS 84), Lebo, May 21, 2024
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/g/brick-program
Jeffrey H. "Jeff" Simmons (BS 81), Burlington, Feb. 12, 2024
William E. "Bill" Sipes (BSB 86), Kansas City, April 1, 2024
Bobby D. White (BSE 84), Lyons, June 18, 2024
Barbara L. White (MLS 81), Salina, March 9, 2024
1990s
Julia C. Crider (BFA 93, BS 96), Wichita, Nov. 25, 2023
Renee L. Gruen (BSB 99), Overland Park, March 7, 2024
Shawn C. Johnson (BS 96), Jefferson City, Mo., March 12, 2024
Rebecca D. "Becky" (Henderson) Lindamood (BS 96), Quincy, May 22, 2024
Philip D. Lunt (MS 94), Garden Plain, Feb. 17, 2024
Linda L. (Krause) McComb (BSE 93), Wichita, March 28, 2023
Annette J. Parker (MS 91), Palm Springs, Calif., Aug. 12, 2023
Joel R. Phipps (BS 97), Manhattan, March 1, 2024
Rebecca J. "Becky" (Barber) Troyer (BSB 94), Emporia, Feb. 2, 2024
Theodore L. "Ted" VanDonge (BS 91), Holton, March 17, 2024
2000s
Linda A. (Tallman) Hopkins (MS 03), Burlington, Feb. 20, 2024
Jeanette A. Parker (MLS 07), Wichita, Jan. 18, 2024
Samantha T. "Sam" Roze (MS 08), Philadelphia, Pa., Dec. 27, 2023
2010s
Sue V. Claridge (MM 13), Kansas City, May 25, 2022
Deidre K. Elrod (BS 17), Emporia, June 8, 2024
Monica R. (Martin) McClure (MS 12), Valley Center, May 14, 2024
Jeffrey P. "Jeff" Rider (BS 11), McKenzie, Ala., March 8, 2024
Adam A. Tebben (BSN 17), Winfield, Jan. 20, 2024
2020s
Coleen Raines (MACC 20), Richland, Wash., May 6, 2024
Luis M. Tapia Hernandez (BSB 20), Emporia, Jan. 1, 2024
Former Students
Connie L. (Stucky) Ayala, Emporia, May 20, 2024
Mike J. Bartlett, Lebo, March 17, 2024
Lynn D. (Kirkman) Bonney, Topeka, April 12, 2024
Martha A. (Shelton) Carter, Denver, Colo., March 22, 2024
Joyce A. (Birney) Dewell, Winfield, March 31, 2024
Elizabeth A. (Brown) Engle, Shawnee, Aug. 31, 2023
Walter N. Finger III, Santa Rose, Calif., May 19, 2024
Jesse E. "Ed" Hogue, San Antonio, Texas, Jan. 22, 2024
Beverly J. "Bev" (Dumler) Hower, Salina, Jan. 30, 2024
Catherine L. "Cathy" (Foncannon) Leonard, Wichita, March 22, 2024
Betty J. (LaBrant) Ludy, Emporia, Feb. 27, 2024
Brian A. Messenger, Olathe, Jan. 23, 2024
Ashleigh L. (Boyd) Monzano-Aguilar, Topeka, April 11, 2024
Hazel E. (Porter) Moreland, Wichita, Jan. 15, 2024
Betty J. (Wicker) Nicholson, York, Pa., Jan. 29, 2024
Sandy J. Ricke, Sharon, March 6, 2024
Monica L. (Miller) Svaty, Wichita, May 22, 2024
Clyde A. Thornton, Pittsburgh, Pa., May 16, 2024
Eileen (Cannon) Thornton, Hartford, April 21, 2024
Gloria J. "Jeannie" (Meador) Thrasher, Wilson, Feb. 2, 2024
Donald R. "Don" Walton, Cedar Falls, Iowa, March 12, 2024
Guy A. Winters, Jr., Camdenton, Mo., May 23, 2024
Friends
Raymond D. "Dennis" Pember, Emporia, Feb. 2, 2024
Michael G. "Mike" Redeker, Manhattan, April 16, 2024
Sandra L. "Sandi" Sigler, Emporia, Jan. 29, 2024
Dr. William L. "Bill" Smith, Hollister, Mo., June 22, 2024
Albert F. "Al" Ziesmer, Emporia, May 11, 2024
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::
Finland: Northern Lights, Glass Igloos and More | January 16 – 23, 2025
Alaska Adventure | July 22 – August 2, 2025
California “Without” Its Big Cities | August 18 – 25, 2025
Costa Rica In Depth | October 4 – 15, 2025
2025 Jubilee: The Holy Year | October 8 – 15, 2025
Morocco In Depth | November 6 – 20, 2025
Historic Holidays | December 2025
For information on upcoming Hornet Travel opportunities and to find out more about our 2025 destinations, contact Laurie Pitman at lpitman@emporia.edu.
Hornet Heritage Award
The Emporia State University Alumni Association is proud to recognize legacy families with the Hornet Heritage Award, which honors a multi-generational family of ESU alumni and former students – families who have made Emporia State University a family tradition. The 2024 Hornet Heritage family will be announced at ESU Family Day on September 21, 2024. To nominate your family for this prestigious honor, visit emporia.edu/hornetheritage
Nominate A HORNET
Searching for — and recognizing — the best. You know them. Those brilliant people who make everything they touch turn into Hornet Nation gold. In fact, maybe you’re one of them. Now is the time to tell us about those people and give them the recognition they deserve. Honor them with a nomination for an Emporia State award or board position. Or, put your name in the hat for consideration.
Nomination Deadlines + Links
Distinguished Alumni
November 1 emporia.edu/distinguishednomination
Alumni Association Board of Directors
November 1 emporia.edu/boardnomination
Hornet Heritage Family Award
December 1 emporia.edu/heritagenomination
University Service Citation
December 1 emporia.edu/servicenomination
Finland Morocco
