Spotlight Fall 2020

For Alumni and Friends of Hornet Nation

Fall 2020

Calender of Events 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.

Emporia State University Alumni Association Events emporia.edu/alumnievents Emporia Main Street emporiamainstreet.com Emporia Arts Council emporiaksarts.org Emporia Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau visitemporia.com/events

For Alumni and Friends of Hornet Nation Managing Editors Lindsay Thompson lthomp15@emporia.edu Laurie Pitman lpitman@emporia.edu Design & Layout Ryan O’Meara romeara@emporia.edu Photography Dustin Michelson dmichels@emporia.edu Spotlight on Alumni Laurie Pitman lpitman@emporia.edu Contributors DeWayne Backhus (BS 1966) Bethany Bowman (BS 2018) Linzi Garcia (MA 2020) Kate Kreiman (BA 2015, MLS 2017) Gwen Larson Lindsay Thompson Editorial Committee Tyler Curtis (BSE 2001, MS 2004) Kelly Heine (BFA 2001) Shane Shivley (BSB 2000) Emporia State University President Allison Garrett Foundation President Shane Shivley (BSB 2000) Associate Vice President for University Advancement Jennifer Denton (MBA 2016) Assistant Vice President for University Advancement Tyler Curtis (BSE 2001, MS 2004) Director of Alumni Relations Jose Feliciano Jr. Foundation Board of Trustees Chairperson Russ Everhart (BSB 1990, MS 1996) Alumni Association Board of Directors President Brenda Vogts (BSE 1981) Spotlight is the magazine of Hornet Nation, consisting of more than 72,000 alumni and friends of Emporia State University. The Emporia State University Alumni Association and Emporia State Foundation, 1500 Highland St., Emporia, KS 66801-5018, publish Spotlight twice a year.

Third class postage is paid from Liberty, Mo. Publication number 708440.

Contents 2

Homecoming 2020: Always & Forever

4

Public Servants in the Time of a Pandemic

6

True North

9

Hornet Nation Is Made of Changemakers

10

Balancing on the Nexus of Educational Evolution

12

Hornet Scientists on the Fight Against COVID-19

16

Service to Others Is Central to Our Calling

18

6

Professorships Honor Icons of ESU and Recognize Great Professors Teaching Today

20

Overcoming Obstacles

22

Spotlight on Alumni

30

In Memoriam

10

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 50, Number 1

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

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fall 2020

1

2020

Honoring Our Supporters Traditionally, Homecoming is the time when we gather and celebrate the numerous achievements of Hornet Nation, especially those who go above and beyond in their generous support of Emporia State. Although our in-person festivities are not possible at this time, their achievements are no less impressive or important, and our gratitude for these supporters is immeasurable. Please join us in thanking these Hornets for their impact on our students, faculty, staff, campus, and university as a whole.

BLACK & GOLD CIRCLE Honoring exceptional donors for lifetime giving at a transformational level of $100,000+ Welcome to our New Members Greg & Gina-Lynne Kossover, Philanthropist Members

Gary & Jan Geringer, Advocate Members

Charles Koch Foundation, Advocate Member

Ann J. Havenhill, Advocate Member

Mark & Brenda Commons, Advocate Members

Sam & Jeannene Hayes, Advocate Members

Lynn Fiehler, Advocate Member

Troy & Connie Johnston, Advocate Members

Anthony & Deborah Forcum, Advocate Members

Ralph & Jerri Laster, Advocate Members

James & Joan Geitz, Advocate Members

Sodexo, Inc. & Affiliates, Advocate Member

Congratulations to our Advancing Members

The 2020 Homecoming events and celebration of our Hornet Nation spirit will look a little different this year. Even though we can’t meet up on campus and gather in the Memorial Union’s KSTC Ballroom or in the stands of Welch Stadium to watch the Hornet football team deliver a victory, Hornet Nation can still join together to celebrate our Black & Gold pride, our connections to one another, and our love for our alma mater. Because no matter what happens in the world, Emporia State is Always & Forever.

Join with your fellow Hornets at a series of virtual events and share your pride! Visit emporia.edu/homecoming to see a list of events and follow us on social media to catch all the ways we are showing our Black & Gold spirit this fall.

Art & Sue Bloomer, Partner Members

Leon & Judy Hannebaum, Investor Members

Diane & Gary Beatty, Investor Members To view a list of all Black & Gold Circle members and to read more about these New and Advancing members and their passion for Emporia State, visit emporia.edu/givingsocieties

Emporia State also extends our gratitude to the members of The Lyman B. Kellogg Society (Legacy Giving) and The President’s Club (Leadership Annual Giving) for their commitment to ESU. Visit emporia.edu/givingsocieties to learn more about these giving societies and the generous donors who invest in the future of Emporia State.

c i l b u P SERVANTS IN THE

TIME OF A PANDEMIC ESU ALUMNI LEAD THROUGH 2020

When you work in government, the issues of greatest importance to constituents can vary greatly from place to place. But occasionally, an issue arises that affects everyone. COVID-19 has been one of those issues. Although the necessary actions to address it may be significantly different from place to place, ESU alumni Ron Frierson (BS 96-Social Sciences), Jeff Longbine (FS 81-Business) and Mark Schreiber (BS 78-Biology, MS 81-Biology) agree, it has been a challenge that has had consequences across the nation.

Los Angeles is a polycentric metro area that is continually growing and densifying. The various pockets of sociocultural and socioeconomic populations require a broad perspective and an open mind when navigating how to serve everyone. Frierson, as the Director of Economic Policy for Los Angeles’ Mayor Eric Garcetti, was already focusing his work on addressing the city’s diverse business and economic concerns when COVID-19 arrived. The pandemic has dramatically intensified many of the existing challenges and disparities. Frierson believes empathy is the key first step to finding solutions.

Frierson grew up in Saginaw, Michigan—population 50,000—and now serves about 4,000,000 people in Los Angeles. He attributes his empathy for people to his supportive parents, his spirituality and his “catalytic” time at ESU. Coming from a city with a strong manufacturing background to a largely agricultural community with half the population of his hometown, the culture shock of Emporia helped Frierson “forge relationships with people that didn’t share my name or my culture,” he said. This experience shaped his understanding of the significance of cultural differences. He learned that if he wanted to develop fellowship and understanding among diverse individuals, he had to recognize those differences and be a bridge for understanding.

He continues to carry that philosophy throughout his professional journey. He sees it as his duty to make certain the voice of every constituent is not just heard but understood. “Whether I’m speaking with Google or sitting at dinner with a wealthy venture capitalist, I take their concerns as seriously as the concerns of the kid who tells me that he’s trying to do better in school, but it’s difficult to study because it gets dark outside sooner, and the electricity was out,” Frierson said.

The importance of stepping up as an advocate and a fighter on behalf of all people has only been heightened by the pandemic and the issues surrounding social justice. “You have to be willing to fight or advocate for those who don’t have a voice in hopes to provide opportunities in an increasingly competitive world,” Frierson said. The people are the bottom line.

Kansas legislators Jeff Longbine and Mark Schreiber agree.

“At the end of the day, you need to represent your constituents,” Longbine said. He has served as the District 17 senator for the past 10 years and recently won the primary for his reelection.

Drawing on his time as a business administration student at ESU, Longbine put his education into action by getting involved with the local chamber of commerce, rotary and city commission, among other organizations. He is invigorated by the opportunities to get to know his community and its needs, whether that is encouraging thriving businesses or combatting a pandemic.

RON FRIERSON

JEFF LONGBINE

MARK SCHREIBER

In December, the legislator was optimistic about the session ahead.

With strong revenues and a healthy budget, his hopes were to put more money into higher education and develop a new transportation plan— two areas that had not necessarily been prioritized before.

By March, the statehouse was closed to the general public, in response to the pandemic, and with about 300 people working in the building, “it kind of felt like we were working in a petri dish,” Longbine said. Focus shifted to tightening the budget in preparation for the pandemic and revising the Emergency Management Plan. Though the state had plans for how to help communities through tornadoes and floods, droughts and fires, it did not have a plan for a pandemic.

“We had to make a lot of adjustments to legislation in order to give the authority to the governor to handle things in the pandemic and make decisions,” Longbine said. “The information and the data were changing daily, so a lot of that was on the fly.”

For legislators, and their behind the scenes staff, the need to adapt and change is nothing new. For representative and ESU alum Mark Schreiber, it has been a hallmark of his career.

After earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in biology from ESU, Schreiber went on to have a 35+ year career with KG&E and Westar Energy, starting as a biologist and moving into emergency planning. He then moved into lobbying and became involved in government at a state and county level. Four years ago, when the house seat opened, he took the opportunity to adapt to a new role once more. And, even within his role as a representative, he has adapted to focus on the most important current issues.

“A lot of it is listening,” Schreiber said. “When you go in, I think everybody thinks there is a right answer for this kind of thing, and we just need to do it,” but he added that it is much more complicated than that.

One component of adaptability is compromise—something anyone in a government position is intimately familiar with, especially when needing to make time-sensitive decisions.

“It’s not all one way or the other; it’s kind of meeting in the middle,” Schreiber said. “That’s how it should work—we meet in the middle and we negotiate. Too often over the last two or three decades, it’s either this way or this way, and there’s no coming together and saying ‘let’s work this out.’”

Schreiber encourages people to step up to public service and help work it out, help implement the improvements for which they vote.

“It’s very difficult to find people who want to run for public office,” he said. “People see the vitriol that’s out there. They see the attacks, the degrading speech that goes on between parties, and they don’t want any part of it.”

But, being engaged with government operations is important in a democracy. Schreiber mentioned that public servants are those who are active in their communities, counties, state or national government.

He hopes more individuals get involved as public servants. Getting involved can begin by talking with local representatives or joining a city or county board.

Schreiber is adamant that political interests can be pursued with passion and without degradation, even when the issue is as emotionally charged as COVID-19. “We can’t let political divisiveness overrule protecting people’s health and safety,” he said.

Working it out together requires empathy and compromise from all parties. While these traits have been more important than ever during the pandemic, they are traits these ESU alumni draw upon always.

Whether serving one or 4,000,000; whether serving during a ‘normal’ year or during a pandemic; and whether serving as individuals or government officials, they lead by example to promote the importance of working for a purpose greater than oneself.

Photo by Kyle Mills on Unsplash

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fall 2020

5

e u r T North

Jeremy Kohomban, Ph.D. approaches his work in youth and children’s services with a focus on the scientific importance of love and inclusion to the psychological well-being of every child. It is the north star he uses to guide his organization, The Children’s Village in New York City, which he heads as president/CEO. He believes it is the key to addressing the biggest problems facing our nation— poverty, systemic social injustice and the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the beginning of his studies at ESU, Jeremy Kohomban (BS 89-Psychology) was planning to pursue a military career. Kohomban says of that time, “I come from a racially mixed family and came of age during the Sri Lankan Civil War, and when I came to Emporia, my only ambition was to be a military officer. I was in ROTC and that was my primary ambition.”

In the course of his studies, he volunteered at The Farm, a residential facility for at-risk youth, in Americus, Kansas. As he applied his classroom knowledge to a real-world situation, Kohomban discovered young people struggling with issues he felt driven to better understand and address.

“I was so surprised to see so many young people who didn’t have the conviction that they could have a better life. There was almost a sense of despondency. All of them shared this sense of tragedy, that they didn’t know where to go. The more I talked to them, the more I realized that beneath the initial look and feel of ‘I don’t know what to do’ every one of them had aspirations. They wanted the same things you and I want. They just didn’t know how to get there.”

The despondency, in particular, made a deep impression on Kohomban. “Initially, I was curious as to why young people in the United States, in a country where I thought there was a path to opportunity for everyone, didn’t think they had a future, or they couldn’t articulate a future.”

He worked with these young people to see if he could get them to open up to him, if he could understand what was at the root of their hopelessness, and if that attitude could be changed. “I used to take them carp and crawfish fishing down the Neosho River.

The more I got to know them in those settings, the more I heard of their aspirations and it really got me hooked. In fact, I went to Ken Weaver and said, ‘I want to be a neuropsychologist because I want to understand more about what’s going on.’”

Dr. Weaver encouraged him to pursue it, but Kohomban was still a bit reluctant to deviate from his military path. However, his ROTC captain and mentor, Rick Edmond, agreed with Weaver.

“Rick also encouraged me to go for my Ph.D.. He actually was pretty point-blank, he said ‘you can always find a way to pursue a military career. You’ve got a passion to know more about people.’ I remember him telling me, ‘We want officers that really understand people, so you should do it.’ And, I said ‘OK!’ So, I began studying to be a neuropsychologist. After graduation, I went to New York and interned and practiced with a neuropsychologist. Quickly, I realized that some of the skills that I had acquired during ROTC bettersuited management. So, here I am. It wasn’t accidental. There were people in my life who moved me along.”

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The mentorship and encouragement provided by Dr. Ken Weaver and Rick Edmond launched Kohomban down a career path that would be focused on ensuring vulnerable, at-risk and underserved children receive the care they need to lead fulfilling lives. It is a path that would lead him from his undergrad studies in psychology at ESU, all the way to a Ph.D. in Business and Leadership, and ultimately, in 2004, would bring him to The Children’s Village, as the nearly 170-year-old institution’s ninth president. Two years later, in 2006, Emporia State honored his achievements thus far and named him one of our Distinguished Alumni.

At The Children’s Village, Kohomban leads a team of over 1,400 employees engaged in a broad array of programs centered around the mission of supporting families, helping children return to families, and when that is not safe or not an option, creating new families. Their work in evidence-based support services ranges from adoption and foster care services, community and teen outreach, alternatives to incarceration and non-secure detention, shelters for homeless youth, to development of affordable housing for families.

When faced with steep challenges, he let his values guide him

In March, as COVID-19 began to grab hold of New York City, it was threatening the health and welfare of everyone The Children’s Village serves. But, it was also affecting their massive team of employees. Kohomban saw immediately he must provide for his team.

He says of those days in early March, “Our people on the frontline, many of them are living paycheck to paycheck. They didn’t have the savings accounts, and they didn’t have time to stock up at the supermarkets. We also knew many of them were coming from the neighborhoods that were going to be impacted. We knew that they were at high risk. And, we also knew that they would be taking care of people they loved. When we put those two things together, it became easy. I mean, how do you say no? I was lucky. I went to my trustees and said, ‘I need access to about $3,500,000. I’m not sure if we can get the money back. I’m not sure where it will come from.’

No one said no. It was unanimous.”

The Children’s Village trustees made the funds available, and Kohomban used it to increase pay by 25% for everyone who reported to the frontlines of COVID-19 and to secure essential supplies that the employees were unable to find in stores.

Kohomban says of The Children’s Village, “We are fortunate that we have a history of overcoming challenges. I am not the first person to lead during a crisis. Someone led us through the Civil War and emancipation, the pandemic of 1918, through the Great Depression, World War I and World War II. Someone led us through 9/11. I was here through Superstorm Sandy and the Great Recession.

And now, I am here for COVID-19. I stand on the broad shoulders of people who led this institution and a group of trustees who never let us down.”

fall 2020

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Learning from mistakes of the past

Kohomban is proud of the organization’s successes, but he is also upfront about its complicated history, including being the organization that co-founded the Orphan Train. This endeavor, started in the 1850s and run through the 1920s, brought orphaned, abandoned and impoverished children from East coast cities by train into the Midwest in search of homes that would take them. It is an example, in Kohomban’s mind, of how attempts to solve real issues can be subverted by bias and a one-size-fits-all approach to societal problems. “We have a long history in this country of taking kids away from poor people and people we don’t like.”

Kohomban points to that example as a reminder that society often is blind to the harms it causes when it strives to do good. It is part of his mission to take the bias out of youth and foster services and to not confuse poverty for abuse. “By all means, when kids need to come out of homes because their lives are at risk, they should. They absolutely should.”

But, Kohomban points out that the majority of children placed in foster care are removed for neglect. “Neglect is most closely related to poverty. So, we’ve been removing kids from poor parents, spending a lot more money, because when you remove kids from parents, you have to spend 10 times more money to take care of them.” Sometimes, the neglect warrants the removal, but Kohomban guards against letting bias creep into the decision process.

He says, “We have a long history of believing that poor people are lazy and that’s why they’re poor. This is a real tragedy in our way of thinking. When you add race and color to that, it gets worse. But in the past, we thought the same thing about European immigrants who were non-English speaking. We felt the same way about the Irish. This has been a moving target.”

“We are conditioned as people to view poor people and people we don’t value—African Americans, poor people of color— as being ‘less than.’ And, we forget that they have beautiful lives and that they love their children, too.

Just like we love our children, just as we were loved. We never get to that point of questioning our biases because we look at the data, and we don’t want to believe the data. I learned that at ESU by the way, I learned that from Rick and Ken Weaver.

We have to have a true north.”

Guided by science, navigating by principles

Much of Kohomban’s work is about getting to the root of the problem without creating new ones. For some kids, removal from the home or residential placement is the necessary intervention, but for others, it isn’t the solution. And, it can lead to greater problems.

“Kids deserve to know that they are loved. And, institutions, no matter how good we are, can’t give kids love. We just can’t. Kids who don’t know love will reproduce the same in their lives. So, let’s not be surprised that kids who grow up in institutions without love will end up in jail, will join gangs, will die on the streets, will hurt us, will hurt themselves because they don’t know what it means to be loved.”

HORNET NATION IS MADE OF

s r e k a m e g Chan

Learn more about some of the amazing ways your fellow alumni are helping others, sharing their time and talents and making the world a better place!

The despondency that Kohomban first identified in his work at The Farm is rooted in the absence of unconditional love and belonging.

“When you don’t have it, it’s the only thing you want, which is why when you read these articles about kids in and out of foster care, kids on the street, people talk about how they need education, they need citizenship behavior, they need a job, and that’s all true. But in the absence of unconditional belonging, all these required tasks are extremely difficult to reach. Are there exceptional situations where kids fight through the lack of love and still succeed? Of course there are. But, the vast majority can never get beyond the loss and abandonment. Government and charity are never a substitute for the love of family.

Numerous studies on the importance of love and belonging for social-emotional development in children back him up. Kohomban uses that data to direct resources in ways that will provide the greatest results. But, also as a way to put a check on racial and classist biases. “When you don’t follow the data, when you don’t believe data, when your mind isn’t focused on the science, your emotions rule. And, we are conditioned as people to view poor people and people we don’t value—African Americans, poor people of color—as being ‘less than.’ And, we forget that they have beautiful lives and that they love their children, too. Just like we love our children, just as we were loved. We never get to that point of questioning our biases because we look at the data, and we don’t want to believe the data. I learned that at ESU by the way, I learned that from Rick and Ken Weaver. We have to have a true north.”

Kohomban explains that the science-backed ideas are what guide him, but his destination is achieving results. He’s not just talking about reforming the system, he and his team at The Children’s Village are demonstrating it. “Proof of concept is key. What really matters is what we are getting done. That’s a good, Midwestern, boots-on-the-ground military idea.”

The mentorship he received at Emporia State set him on his course and taught him scientific data coupled with core values will always serve to guide you. Armed with these tools, he is approaching the challenges of this moment in history with confidence and a steady plan. “The way we move forward through this crisis, I think, is three-fold. First, don’t lose sight of your mission’s purpose. That’s the only reason we should be around. Second, don’t let down the people who depend on you. Both the families and the staff. I am nothing without our staff. All 1,400 of them. Doesn’t matter what they do. They are important, and I can’t let them down. Third, tell the story. People need to know good things can happen in bad times.” With Kohomban at the helm, he and his team of 1,400 are sure to deliver countless children and families through these hard times to a better future.

Photo by Anita Gill

Ardie Lauxman (BSB 76-Accounting) When Arizona shut down the restaurateurs in March, I approached a friend, Anita Gill, from our local Rotary Club who owned a small coffee express/deli business. I was concerned for her and the business because America runs on small business and the local neighborhood coffee shop had shown great value to our area in Fort Mohave, Arizona.

Anita was concerned for the elderly folks in our community, so we created a plan to deliver them meals. The casinos in Laughlin donated food, contributions came into our Rotary Club, and Mohave Community College allowed us to use their culinary kitchens.

A post went out on the Javelina’s Coffee Express social media page (Anita’s coffeeshop) soliciting individuals who knew of neighbors and family who needed to stay at home and may need help with delivered meals. The response was immediate and overwhelming. Two weeks later, over 600 meals were being prepared, and a team of volunteers, including myself, delivered them. When the number grew to 800, we had to stop taking new applications. We ran this program until June 3, when the state began to open back up.

Sharon Soetaert (BSE 74-Elementary Education, MS 94-Special Education) Learning the alphabet must go on! I have continued making alphabet pillows for preschool and kindergarten classrooms throughout Kansas and Missouri, along with descriptions of Core Curriculum guidelines and ideas for learning, usually accompanied by an ABC book.

Also, I create "Power Pause Pillows" for a wonderful site of giving discovered on Facebook. The name of this online group is ‘Spreading Kindness and LoveEmporia Area.’

I offer these pillows for travel; for the "online learning space;" a sick friend; or for gift giving to the elderly, a new mother, or to those quarantined. If someone wishes to receive one, they drop their address on the site, and my husband, Tom, and I deliver the item to their door. This has been really a fun way to meet new people while staying within the COVID-19 guidelines. Although it has been an unprecedented time for so many, I have been amazed at the acceptance and adjustments as well as the creativity that has emerged and continued.

John Simecka (BSB 70-Business Administration) I am a KSTC alum, class of 1970. I live in St. Marys, Kansas, and am involved in my community. My wife Paulette (BSE 1969) is also an ESU alum. In my career, I utilized my Business Administration degree from ESU to work 48 years in the computer industry. As a citizen-soldier, I served in the Kansas Army National Guard for 32 years, retiring as a Colonel.

I like to volunteer my time, talents and treasures. I am a current board member for USD 321, Community Care Ministries, Farmers State Bank in Westmoreland, Caring Community Foundation, St. Marys Housing Authority and St. Marys Zoning Board of Appeals. I am very active in the Immaculate Conception Church and serve on the finance council and the building campaign. I’m also the current Grand Knight for Knights of Columbus Council #657.

I enjoy helping others as the coordinator for Harvester’s Mobile Food Pantry and for the USDA Commodities in St. Marys.

I am proud of my record as a blood donor, having donated over 68 gallons of blood. In addition, I’ve coordinated local blood drives for the Community Blood Center over the past seven years.

Are you a Changemaker? Share your story with Hornet Nation at emporia.edu/changemaker 8

fall 2020

9

BALANCING ON THE NEXUS OF

l a n o i t a c u n d o i E t u l o v E

LEARNING IN THE TIME OF A PANDEMIC

Education is a constantly evolving field, but the intensity of the changes was amplified this past March. As any teacher, or parent, will tell you, when the novel coronavirus pandemic shut down in-person learning and required an abrupt transition to remote learning for both K-12 and higher education, a myriad of challenges arose. But when education is your vocation, there is always room to learn. As Dr. Joan Brewer (BSE 91-Mathematics and Physical Education, MS 94-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), dean of The Teachers College, says, “Where there is challenge, there is opportunity.”

Minding the gaps

“If you look at the effects of the pandemic with that mindset, we had a ton of opportunities and learned a lot that will impact how we prepare teachers so they’re ready if something like this would arise again.”

From preschool through higher education, Brewer and Dr. Sara Schwerdtfeger (BSE 98-Elementary Education, MS 06-Master Teacher), associate professor and interim associate department chair of Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education and Special Education as well as ESU director of Professional Development Schools, said it became clear where the major gaps were—who had access to the technology and supportive learning environments and who did not.

“One of our key proficiencies for The Teachers College is the ability to respond to uncertainty and change,” Brewer said. Change naturally occurs with every class of students, as each student is different, each class is different, and each school year is different.

However, changing the entire class structure in response to the pandemic is a significantly larger change than usual. The ability to adapt, respond and reflect is a valuable professional characteristic in an educator, and the pandemic has given education majors an added layer of experience and examples during their studies.

“We have learned so much about fighting for what’s right, being here right in the middle of it. It’s a journey I didn’t expect, and it all started when I visited Emporia State in the summer of 1978.”

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Brewer, who has a 29-year career in education, said there has always been a focus on making sure students and faculty meet specific standards. Schools were already seeing an increase in individualized learning tactics being deployed to meet the diverse learning needs of students in order to reach those standards.

However, the sudden move to remote learning further highlighted the importance of a tailored approach to teaching and revealed just how significant an obstacle some socioeconomic and geographical barriers are for students.

Technology provides the ability to keep up with learning from home.

This past spring further highlighted the significant inequity in the availability and reliability of technological resources at home. Many educational institutions received support from their communities in ways that helped equip students with technology they needed, including free public Wi-Fi. Brewer is committed to the university’s goal of becoming a model for diversity, equity and inclusion. She and her colleagues in The Teachers College put that in action by educating students about what diversity, equity and inclusion might look like at different academic levels, for different age groups and in different school districts. These conversations are the first step to addressing both persistent and new needs of students.

DR. JOAN BREWER

DR. DIANE DEBACKER

The pandemic has brought renewed attention to the most vulnerable students

COVID-19 has created financial instability for some, which can cause added stress on students and affect their educational experience. For some students, the lack of proper equipment and learning environment in the home have exacerbated an already challenging academic year. Add abuse, neglect and other maltreatment that some students endure, coupled with the inability for educators to physically check-in with students, amplifies the existing concerns educators normally juggle.

“Before, the kids could go to a school building, and though that situation still may be happening, they could escape, in a way,” Chief Academic Officer of Seattle Public Schools Dr. Dianne (Prior) DeBacker (BSB 82-Business Education, Distinguished Alumni 14) said. “The social-emotional learning and the trauma-informed support that we’re going to need to put in place, that will be a different way of life for us here in Seattle.”

Social-emotional learning, which has been “on the radar” in K-12 schools recently, Schwerdtfeger said, will help students get the support they need, while teaching them how to respond to social and emotional situations healthily and productively. Social-emotional learning is also becoming more popular in higher education.

Educators anticipate the need for more social-emotional learning across all grades, especially in times of crisis. It can be difficult to reach the students who may need it the most, though.

There are over 3,000 homeless students in Seattle alone and over 40,000 throughout Washington State, according to the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness. Many of the homeless shelters closed in response to the pandemic. DeBacker said not knowing how the most vulnerable students are faring is one of the most troubling unknowns. During the 2017-18 school year, Kansas public schools reported about 8,000 homeless students across the state.

Not only is equity an individual-based issue, it is also a district-based issue. In some districts, each student was provided with necessary technology, and other districts did not have that opportunity.

“You saw that inequity in multiple places,” Brewer said. “We’ve become well-aware of those gaps.”

DR. SARA SCHWERDTFEGER

In the Seattle Public School District, DeBacker said the district prioritized male African American high school seniors during the closure in the spring. If they were on track to graduate, it was imperative they stay on track, with the help of their educators.

“We have a very strong strategic plan around equity, racial equity especially. We talk about students who are further from educational justice—those who have traditionally been marginalized in the educational system,” she said.

“We have a very clear philosophy for action: If we do it right for this one group that is most underserved, then that will bring our entire system up, and we say that unapologetically,” she said.

Dark clouds have silver linings

Like any challenge, this one has had positive outcomes as well.

For some students, school at home has provided them with a more comfortable learning environment than the brick and mortar classroom offered.

“Think about kids who maybe have some social anxiety, maybe have some trauma that they’re dealing with, or maybe they have a health issue, and they need to not be in school—now there’s no excuse for schools to say, ‘We can’t do that,’” DeBacker said, including how it is imperative to offer families different modes of public education in order to support diverse student needs.

DeBacker expressed that it is a fascinating time to be in Seattle in general, but especially as someone working in education. As the first major school district to close when the novel coronavirus made its way into the United States, she is well-versed in major adaptations.

She never expected to live in Seattle, but much like her chance decision to enroll in Emporia State University, her unexpected path has been fulfilling.

“We have learned so much about fighting for what’s right, being here right in the middle of it,” she said about being an educator in Seattle. “It’s a journey I didn’t expect, and it all started when I visited Emporia State University in the summer of 1978.”

2020 is a journey that no one expected. It has brought long-standing challenges into the national conversation and has sped up the adoption of technological innovations. It has shone a light on the resourcefulness, adaptability and dedication of educators, and the broad array of challenges their work entails. Most of all, it has taught us that every challenge provides opportunity to learn and grow from the experience.

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t e n r o H SCIENTISTS

ON THE FIGHT AGAINST COVID-19

For years, Hornet Nation has produced talented scientists who work at the top of their field. We called upon three Emporia State Distinguished Alumni with expertise in the healthcare sphere to share their insights about the COVID-19 virus and how it has affected their work and their respective fields.

“Fifteen years ago, I read The Great Influenza by John Barry and was deeply affected by the power of a true pandemic to devastate both medically and economically during the ‘Spanish Flu’ of 1918.

Experiencing a pandemic firsthand with COVID-19 is still quite unbelievable. This is a once-in-a-century event that we will all be talking about for generations to come.”

When Dr. Randy Scott (BS 79-Chemistry) makes that kind of comment, he is speaking from experience. He has been in the biotech industry since its infancy, initially focusing on protein drug development. His career has spanned biotech, genomics research and development of medical diagnostics. “In 1991, I had the good fortune to start my first successful genomics company, Incyte, during the early days of the human genome project and realized that I was passionate about the intersection of science and business. In 2000, I left Incyte to start one of the first personalized medicine diagnostic companies (Genomic Health) and then in 2012 co-founded Invitae, now one of the world’s leading genetic testing companies, followed by Genome Medical, a nation-wide telegenetics medical practice in 2016.”

Although Scott ‘retired’ in 2019, he is still actively engaged in the industry, serving on the boards of Genome Medical, Freenome, BridgeBio and Talis Biomedical. COVID-19 has in many ways affected or disrupted the work these companies are doing, but for Talis Biomedical some of their work has shifted to focus on the virus. “Talis was putting the final touches on a very exciting instrument platform for rapid infectious disease detection (20 minutes in a doctor’s office) when COVID-19 hit. We quickly shifted all efforts to develop a rapid diagnostic test for SARS-CoV-2 that could be available as soon as this fall through the FDA’s (Food and Drug Administration) Emergency Use Authorization. If successful, we could put inexpensive units into offices, drug stores, homes, cruise ships, anywhere where rapid diagnosis is needed. One of the keys to stopping the pandemic is rapid diagnosis, tracking and tracing of infections to prevent spread.”

Fighting the Virus Is Personal

Dr. Mark Witten (BSE 75-Physical Sciences) has been researching lung injury since 1980 and has focused much of his work on Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which has been a prevalent diagnosis for many who fall ill with COVID-19. Much of his life’s work has put him in a prime position to fight the virus. But, this virus has also impacted him on a deeply personal level. Tragically, he lost a family member to COVID-19 in April.

Witten is working hard to keep others from experiencing the loss he has suffered. He is pivoting projects he already had in the pipeline toward fighting the virus. “This event has inspired me to redirect my biosensor invention to coronavirus detection. I am currently working with the British National Health Service and have a pending proposal with the National Science Foundation to use artificial intelligence techniques to improve the accuracy/reliability of my biosensor to detect coronavirus in a person’s expired breath.”

Witten is also developing a drug that could treat ARDS, a syndrome that can result from the damage COVID-19 infection does to the lungs. It is currently in clinical trials in Singapore.

Unintended Consequences

For Dr. Brian Cathers (BS 92-Chemistry), chief scientific officer at Global Blood Therapeutics, the virus has meant enormous disruption to his work and his field. At Global Therapeutics, Cathers leads the company’s research function. He says non-COVID related research has been one more area of life that the virus has put on hold. “The field of biotech/pharma has been significantly impacted. All operations were stopped. No new patients have been enrolling in clinical trials anywhere in the world for fear of putting patients at risk of exposure to SARS-CoV2. Many hospitals were simply unable to handle clinical trials due to the sudden increase in demand on hospitals and hospital staff to attend to those sick with COVID-19….My company was impacted like many others. We shut down all operations on March 16th as directed by the Bay Area health authorities.”

Despite the enormous effect on his work, Cathers sees potential positive outcomes for the pharmaceutical industry. “There has been an amazing surge in cooperation and energy to push potential treatments and/or vaccines at speeds never before thought possible.

We may come out of this with a new perspective on what is needed and how much time it should take to safely bring new drugs/ vaccines to patients, especially in an emergency.”

Photo by Drew Hays on Unsplash

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Be Optimistic, But Be Realistic

All three men are confident that scientific analysis, research and discovery will ultimately see us through this crisis and are excited to see the fast development of so many potential vaccines.

But their optimism comes with some guarded caution based on historical precedent.

As Witten points out, “There are currently almost 100 coronavirus vaccines in development. Some of these vaccines have been administered to human volunteers, and they appear to be making antibodies against the coronavirus. One British study has at least 5,000 human volunteers aged 5-70. This is a key question: Will the vaccines work with all age groups and races? Please remember the fastest vaccine ever developed previously was for mumps in four years.”

Scott shared similar concerns. “We have never developed a vaccine against a coronavirus before, and it could take some time to get a potent vaccine with little to no side effects. Vaccines would need to be given to billions of people around the globe in order to be effective so development needs to be very meticulous and vaccines must be safe. It is possible that vaccines may provide partial protection similar to our flu vaccines…they help but are not 100% effective.”

Cathers also noted the historical timelines vaccine development has required but felt the concerted global effort might signal a leap forward for research and development. “On average, it takes more than 12 years to go from target identification to an approved drug.

The fastest I’ve seen this happen in my career is seven years. We will likely see several vaccines coming to patients next year [2021].

Vaccine development timelines are normally much shorter than for drugs, and we have seen many of the typical regulatory hurdles removed and companies working with government to move forward with manufacturing at large scale before safety and efficacy have even been determined. This partnership and infusion of huge sums of money will accelerate the availability of vaccines.”

Cathers also believes that some repurposed drugs may be key for treatment in the meantime. “There are over a dozen existing drugs being tested in human clinical trials in COVID-19 patients.

Approaches to treat COVID-19 are focused on blocking viral entry into cells, stopping viral replication inside infected cells, or blunting the immune response that appears to lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). There are existing drugs that work via each of these mechanisms that have the potential to treat SARS-CoV2.”

Scott sees promise in focusing on blocking the virus from entering cells as well. “The biggest hope for a short-term cure, in my opinion, is the development of a cocktail of monoclonal antibodies directly targeted at the ability of the virus to bind and invade cells. In theory, such products could move fairly quickly through clinical trials and be available by the end of the year….The technology for drug development and manufacturing is much more sophisticated now than ever before, but I still think it likely that a vaccine or ‘cure’ for COVID-19 won’t happen until well into 2021 or 2022.”

The Pandemic Response Will Lead to Innovation, We Just Need Time

Although cautious about the timeline, they all believe that scientific discovery will ultimately see us through this crisis. They say responsible leadership and personal accountability will be key in buying scientists the time they need to make these crucial discoveries and developments.

All three of these experts have lengthy academic and professional accomplishments.

Here is a brief summary of their experience and achievements.

Scott sees technological advances as a reason to be hopeful. “It’s only the last few decades that have provided us with the technology and the computing power to be able to analyze the complexity of biology [biological systems] at the level of detail required to understand disease at the molecular level. The progress being made in the diagnostic and therapeutic industry is incredible. Industry and academia have mobilized to attack the virus like never before.

By 2021, we should hopefully have incredible diagnostic and therapeutic resources coming online.”

But, he stresses we all still have a part to play in containing the virus.

“Nonetheless, we have a difficult time ahead of us to understand the virus, the impact of mutations, our immune response and all of the disease pathology both short term and long term that is emerging.

The fall of 2020 requires us all to do our part to prevent the virus spread until a cure is found.”

Cathers also sees hope in the scientific response. “The pace and diversity of approaches in vaccine development give me hope that we may get back to a life closer to normal sometime next year without losing too many more lives unnecessarily.”

Witten hopes that we can bring this to an end as soon as possible. He doesn’t want to see any more families suffer as he has. “Hopefully, we will find the golden needle coronavirus vaccine in the proverbial haystack. I pray for that development every night!”

“Nonetheless, we have a difficult time ahead of us to understand the virus, the impact of mutations, our immune response and all of the disease pathology both short term and long term that is emerging.

The fall of 2020 requires us all to do our part to prevent the virus spread until a cure is found.”

BRIAN CATHERS, PH.D.

RANDY SCOTT, PH.D.

MARK WITTEN, PH.D.

Dr. Cathers earned his BS in chemistry from Emporia State in 1992. After graduation, he pursued his MS and Ph.D. in medicinal chemistry from the University of Kansas; he was honored with the prestigious Irsay-Dahle award as the top student in his cohort of graduates.

From there, he completed a post-doctoral appointment at The University of TexasAustin, Drug Dynamics Institute.

Dr. Randy Scott earned his BS in chemistry from Emporia State in 1979. Following completion of the Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Kansas, he spent 10 years at start-up biotech companies working on protein drug development. In 1991, Scott founded Incyte, a genomics company, and the first of several companies he would found or co-found, which include Invitae and Genome Medical.

Cathers started his drug discovery career as an enzymologist at Axys Pharmaceuticals and from there oversaw enzymology and biophysical chemistry research at Newbiotics, Inc. He led drug discovery at Celgene’s Protein Homeostasis Thematic Center of Excellence and is now chief scientific officer at Global Blood Therapeutics (GBT), where he is responsible for the company’s research function, from discovery to non-clinical development, overseeing all internal and external research activities. Some highlights of his research and discovery include development of a colorectal cancer drug from basic research to clinical testing within three years when at NewBiotics, Inc., and production of five new drug candidates and advancement of three investigational drugs into clinical testing in four years, while at Celgene.

In 1997, he was recognized by NASDAQ and Ernst Young as the Silicon Valley Entrepreneur of the Year for the life sciences; in 1999, Scott was listed by Forbes magazine as one of Biotech’s Top 25 Influential Insiders; and in 2005, his first start-up company, Genomic Health, was honored as one of the Top 100 Private Technology Companies in North America. Scott is now retired but serves in a consultative capacity and on boards for several genomic-based healthcare entities.

Dr. Witten earned a BSE in physical sciences from Emporia State in 1975.

Witten went on to receive a Ph.D.. from the University of Indiana with a concentration in exercise physiology. This was followed by a post-doctoral fellowship in respiratory science at the University of Arizona College of Medicine. He would go on to serve as an instructor in Medicine faculty at Harvard Medical School, and later at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in the Steele Memorial Children’s Research Center in the Department of Pediatrics. He retired as a research professor of Pediatrics in 2010.

In 2009, he was recognized as one of Emporia State’s Distinguished Alumni.

Witten’s career has been characterized by multi-million-dollar grants from a range of entities, including the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and a number of branches of the military, among others. Publication topics have included lung injuries due to environmental factors and respiratory viruses. He currently devotes his time to a patent-protected “biosensor,” which is in a prototype stage, and is being assessed for a variety of potential applications, including COVID-19 detection.

In 1992, he was recognized as one of Emporia State’s Distinguished Alumni.

In 2018, he was recognized as one of Emporia State’s Distinguished Alumni.

The information provided for this article was given on or before August 22, 2020. Any scientific developments in the understanding of COVID-19 that may have occurred since then were not known at the time of the interviews.

Dr. DeWayne Backhus (BS 1966-Mathematics, 2019 Distinguished Alumni and Roe R. Cross Distinguished Professor) who provided extraordinary support and collaboration in the creation of this article, sadly lost his sister-in-law to COVID-19 during the writing of this article. Our hearts go out to Dr. Backhus and his family for their loss.

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SERVICE TO OTHERS IS CENTRAL TO OUR

g n i l l a C

Though 2020 turned into a year no one could have expected, Hornet Nation was a beacon of light and hope. The mission statement of Emporia State reads, “preparing students for lifelong learning, rewarding careers, and adaptive leadership.” Students can see these values exemplified by the many members of Hornet Nation who used their knowledge and skills to help their communities and peers in every way they could. As we continue on into the unknown, what we will always know is ESU will find a way to continue striving for the best and supporting one another.

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Hornet Nation has a long history of supporting our community, so when COVID-19 began to affect the Emporia area, many from within the Hornet community answered the call.

It started with the recognition of an array of new and arising challenges. Emporia State professors, instructors and staff recognized they had knowledge and resources that could help make a difference. They took action, providing support and resources in a variety of ways.

Food Insecurity

No stranger to the struggles economic hardship can create for students, the partners and operators of Corky’s Cupboard, ESU’s campus food pantry since fall 2014, recognized right away the difficulty the shutdown of schools and businesses would create for students already experiencing food insecurity. One such person, Center for Student Involvement Director of Student Activities and Community Service, Blythe Eddy (BFA 97-Communication, MS 00-Counselor Education), had to act quickly to make sure Corky’s Cupboard could safely operate in a way that was accessible to students in need. In partnership with Student Wellness, Corky’s Cupboard created pre-packaged food bags that could be picked up in the wellness center while the Memorial Union, the location of Corky’s Cupboard, was closed. For even more accessible options, William Allen White Library turned their Free Little Libraries into “blessing boxes” full of donated items, which could be used by anyone at any time. According to Eddy, supporters across campus donated food and supplies to help the campus community.

While the availability of resources is a big part of the puzzle, students and community members couldn’t utilize what they didn’t know existed. Already passionate about fighting food insecurity, Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication & Theatre, Dr. Jasmine Linabary, and Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology, Dr. Rebecca Rodriguez Carey, put their already running program, the EAT Initiative (Emporia At the Table). As the pandemic forced ESU and the state to shut down or move to remote-only services, Rodriguez Carey, Linabary and the student leaders of the EAT Initiative began making lists of emergency relief resources, which they compiled with the help of community partners into a central location, emporiastrong.com.

Working together, Eddy, Linabary and Rodriguez Carey have a united goal, “ensuring that students know about available resources and feel like they can utilize them.” Through their combined efforts, they are working to connect students and community members to the help they need. “By continuing to educate and advocate on this issue, we hope to help reduce the stigma so more students—and community members—feel like they can utilize the resources they need to survive and thrive.”

Their work, and common goal to help ESU and the community, inspired others in the Hornet Nation to come together as well.

Online mathematics graduate student, Ben Galin, saw the need of his fellow Hornets and decided to donate to Corky’s Cupboard, “I know very well from experience that many students live on a tight budget and work sometimes multiple jobs, so they are particularly vulnerable here.” While he hasn’t been able to visit Emporia yet, Galin donated specifically to a cause at ESU “hoping it would be interpreted as a gesture of ‘we are all in this together’ from someone outside the immediate community.” Whether thousands of miles away or just across town, Hornets are supporting and caring for others.

Testing and PPE

Beyond ESU’s campus, local healthcare workers were preparing for the worst. As a national shortage of PPE and masks loomed, Information Technology (IT) department Learning Designer, Hind Aati (MLS 18-Library Science, MS 18-Instructional Design & Technology), and others in IT decided to try something new in their 3D printing labs. The result was the production of critical masks, face shields, face shield adjustors, test swabs and door openers to donate to the local healthcare community. What began as a simple experiment has turned into an around-the-clock operation. At the time of writing, Aati and her team were on their way to a goal of 200 masks and 100 face shields. “We realized the need for more protective materials and supplies in our community and decided to do our part to help in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” states Aati, “the local healthcare community has been pivotal in Emporia, and we knew we wanted to help keep healthcare workers safe so they would continue keeping the community safe.”

Beyond the design and creation of masks, the ESU Department of Art donated from their supply of particle and N95 respirator masks. But masks, face shields and swabs aren’t the only medical resources to come out of ESU’s support efforts. Biological Sciences assembled vials of viral transport medium (VTM), the media used to transport specimens to laboratories for testing, and donated from their stock of gloves, goggles and other medical-grade supplies. And out of concern for the potential flood of patients, the Department of Nursing moved their equipment out of their simulation rooms in Newman Regional Health in order to provide the local hospital with more space for positive cases.

Remote Learning

In other areas on campus, ESU faculty and staff have been addressing a different need. Educators across the globe were challenged with continuing to provide instruction for students after health officials recommended schools close. As a leader in educational training, Emporia State stepped in to provide support to fellow educators across the nation and the world.

According to interim chair of the Instructional Design and Technology (IDT) department, Jim Persinger (BA 88-Psychology/ Sociology, MS 90-Psychology), “The Teachers College has always provided extensive service and ongoing professional development to educators in K-12 settings, especially in times of crisis. It was natural at the outset of the COVID-19 situation that the faculty had discussions about how to help schools.” Those discussions turned into virtual trainings that spanned two weeks in June, which were attended by 516 people in a mostly live virtual format.

The cross-department effort involved faculty from the IDT department as well as the Elementary Education, Early Childhood and Secondary Education department, who worked on their own time to provide these trainings. As well as faculty, graduate students helped with workshop logistics, registrations, video editing and more, while Administrative Specialist, Regina Murphy, arranged the behind-the-scenes details. All this, Persinger says, is emblematic of The Teachers College and the university as a whole, “A desire to serve others is one of the main motivations of many faculty who chose a career at ESU. We love our students, our professions and our community, and service to others is central to our calling.”

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PROFESSORSHIPS HONOR ICONS OF EMPORIA STATE MEET DR. MARY TEAL, THE FIRST DR. JOHN C. RICH DISTINGUISHED ACCOUNTING PROFESSOR

The new chair of the Accounting, Information Systems and Finance Department in the School of Business, Dr. Mary Teal, has become the first faculty member honored with the Dr. John C. Rich Distinguished Accounting Professorship. This endowed professorship honors Dr. Rich, who retired at the end of the 2019-20 academic year after 50 years at Emporia State.

Dr. Teal comes to Emporia State with a wide breadth of experience.

With four college degrees and a post-doctoral bridge certificate, Teal is an attorney, a certified public accountant and a licensed marriage and family therapist. In 2005, she joined the faculty at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO).

Her move to higher education 15 years ago was both unexpected and rewarding.

“Honestly, I chose it because it chose me,” Teal said of her position as a professor at UCO. “It is acknowledged as a profession that keeps on giving. For me, this is a position that proves to be priceless, selfless and timeless.”

She enjoys working with students and watching them succeed.

“My objective has always been to teach in a way that allows students to learn. When students engage in this process, they can embrace their potential to comprehend. Then naturally, they are enabled and empowered to evolve from learners to thinkers and doers.”

Even before she arrived at ESU, Teal had the opportunity to meet her predecessor and the namesake of her professorship, Dr. Rich.

Of their meeting, Teal said, “We had a remarkable and significant conversation. In fact, I happily anticipate more. I left that day with insightful and encouraging words imprinted in my mind. He is leaving with a profound legacy. I am honored and humbled to be stepping into this distinguished role.”

RECOGNIZE GREAT PROFESSORS TEACHING TODAY DR. CATHY GROVER RECOGNIZED FOR HER LIFELONG IMPACT ON ESU STUDENTS

Dr. Cathy Grover (BS 86-Psychology, BS 96-Business Administration, MS 88-Psychology), associate professor of psychology, has been named the 2020-21 Dr. John E. King Endowed Professor in The Teachers College at Emporia State University.

This professorship was established in 2017 by Arthur C. Piculell, Jr. (BA 59-Psychology) to honor Dr. John E. King, the 11th president of the Kansas State Teachers College, now Emporia State University.

"This is the second year we have been able to award the Dr. John E. King Endowed Professorship. The Teachers College has always been committed to putting students first,” said The Teachers College Dean Joan Brewer (BSE 91-Mathematics, MS 94-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation). “This recognition allows us the opportunity to recognize outstanding faculty who have had a significant impact on the lives of their students. I am grateful we have the ability to acknowledge the efforts of these deserving faculty in such a remarkable way."

“Cathy Grover has been the backbone of the Department of Psychology for 20 years,” Dr. Jim Persinger (BA 88-Psychology, Sociology, MS 90-Psychology), chair of ESU’s Psychology department, said of Grover. “I say that because besides teaching many of its core courses, she is prolific in nurturing talent among the undergraduates. She sponsors dozens of student research projects each year, most of which are presented at state and regional conferences.”

“Dr. Grover also trains and mentors our graduate teaching assistants, with many of them each year going on to additional graduate studies, including doctoral degrees; several have become professors,” Persinger continued. “The Dr. John E. King Professorship is about recognizing caring faculty who mentor and nurture students, and bring out the best in them. Cathy Grover epitomizes that, every day.”

“I want to thank everyone who made this award possible. I am blessed to work at ESU where education and mentoring are highly valued,” Grover said.

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Overcoming Obstacles HORNET STUDENT-ATHLETES LEARN TO NAVIGATE THROUGH THE CHALLENGES CAUSED BY THE GLOBAL PANDEMIC. Athletics programs throughout the nation have experienced upheaval and uncertainty throughout the 2020 spring and fall competitive seasons. At Emporia State, our student-athletes have had to draw upon what their sports have taught them about patience, determination and endurance, to navigate the ups and downs. But, their discipline and grit have served them well as they look to the future and make important decisions about how to balance their athletic and academic careers, with their life and career goals.

A hard day in March that changed everyone’s plans.

“Throughout that day, it just became more and more realistic.”

That day is one that shocked the world of sports, athletes and coaches all across the country. The day the NCAA officially announced that a global pandemic left no choice but to cancel all remaining winter and spring sports. No more games, no championships, no trophies.

“It just hurt,” said Taysean Goodwin, Emporia State track and field athlete. “To be honest, we had all put in so much work. We were trying to win the whole thing. It just hurt really bad.”

At that time, COVID-19 affected most winter and spring sport athletes in some fashion. For Emporia State, our track and field and women’s basketball teams were two programs that the pandemic halted.

Both teams were set to compete in the post-season when the news broke: Lady Hornet Basketball as the No. 2 seed in the NCAA DII Central Regional and Hornet Track and Field at the Indoor National Championships. Because the majority of the two teams’ seasons were complete, the NCAA did not grant an extra year of eligibility to winter sports athletes, thus leaving them to move on without having competed in the postseason for a championship this season.

Kelsey Phillips Softball Senior pitcher Kelsey Phillips has been a force in the circle for ESU softball ever since she arrived on campus. She had planned to cap off her career with not only a successful senior season but by taking in all of the moments spent with teammates who have become like family.

Waiting for the NCAA decision to grant spring sport athletes the opportunity for another year of eligibility was tough emotionally and mentally.

“It was kind of confusing because you’re going through all the different possibilities like ‘would I even want to continue because I’m graduating? Should you accept what you can’t change and move on?’”

Ultimately, after much talk with her family, Phillips decided that she needed to be with her team. Her time in the circle was not over just yet.

“Our team was very close this year & having that support system, someone who is going through the same thing as you, that was awesome,” said Phillips. “Coach Rosales (BSE 08-Health Education, Physical Education, MS 10-Health, Physical Education & Recreation) preaches family over everything, and we really are a family.”

Phillips earned her undergraduate degree in Communication. She will pursue a master’s degree in Instructional Design & Technology with hopes of becoming an event planner/coordinator.

Mason LeClair: Baseball Jessica Wayne: Women’s Basketball Senior women’s basketball player Jessica Wayne felt her team was not yet done when the season was canceled.

“Coming into it, we said this is the group that’s going to go all the way. Just having that cut short because of something that we couldn’t control was extremely frustrating.”

Still, she says, in the midst of adversity, the team came together realizing that their time together is precious. The camaraderie, that family spirit the Lady Hornet teammates had forged on the court, was too strong to be broken, even by a pandemic.

“I just kept thinking, ‘Baseball is not going to get canceled, that’s just not going to happen.’”

At the time of the NCAA decision, Hornet baseball had over half a season left to play. Tons of time to win more games and time to make more memories.

The 2020 season showed that you can never be too sure. After the news broke, the team was able to come together as a group to process what it all meant for them.

“It wasn’t the perfect ending, but I had my teammates and didn’t have to go through the emotions alone,” said LeClair. “I thought that was a pretty special moment.”

“That last time we were all together…we just cherished that moment, just cherished the trip back.’”

LeClair was also given the chance to return with the NCAA’s extra year of eligibility, but ultimately, the senior pitcher found himself at peace with the person and player he had become during his time as a Hornet.

Wayne finished her career as the ESU single-season record holder with 112 steals and is third in career steals with 292. She has scored 1,037 career points in her 116 games to rank 28th on the Lady Hornets career scoring list.

“I’ve always been a person that says ‘God has a plan,’ said LeClair. “I truly found myself at Emporia State, it felt like home. It’s a special place. But when the season was canceled, I felt it was time for me to move on.”

LeClair, like many athletes, had to balance his athletic career with other life goals.

She plans to undergo surgery for an ACL injury she sustained during the season. Additionally, she plans to finish an internship for her Health and Human Performance major this fall while rehabbing and possibly helping out with the team this coming season. Ultimately, Wayne wants to go overseas and continue playing basketball professionally.

LeClair is engaged and planning to marry soon.” She was all for me coming back,” said LeClair. Despite his fiancée’s willingness to support his return, he decided to close this chapter of his life and start the next chapter.

This spring, LeClair earned his degree in Business Management from Emporia State. He recently began working as an insurance agent for GlobeLife while planning with his fiancée for their January 22, 2021, wedding in Hawaii. He plans to include many former teammates in the ceremony.

Taysean Goodwin: Men’s Track & Field Men’s Track and Field athlete Taysean Goodwin is no stranger to the big stage. He is a seven-time national qualifier, a 12-time All-American for the Hornets and had high expectations for not only his own senior indoor season, but also for his younger teammates at the national meet in Birmingham, Alabama.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the plans of all our studentathletes. They all faced the same challenges and decisions, but each story is unique.

“I wanted to be a champion, but I also wanted to help guide and mentor the younger guys. I was trying to get them a trophy. It wasn’t just about me on that trip,” said Goodwin.

For some, it means another year in a Hornet jersey.

Because the track and field season is split into two (winter and spring), athletes like Goodwin will receive at least their spring portion of eligibility back. When faced with the decision to return next season or not, he says it was an easy one.

“I was most definitely returning if they gave the year back,” said Goodwin. “I’m blessed. I didn’t think the NCAA was going to give it back. That’s a lot of athletes to keep track of. I don’t know how they’re doing it, but they are and I’m thankful for that.”

Goodwin will return to Emporia State to complete his new senior outdoor season in 2021. He hopes to accomplish what he and his teammates set out to do before COVID-19 hit. He hopes to bring home a national championship.

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“I’m coming back, so be ready,” said Goodwin. “We’re going to work hard and get us a national championship.”

Coach Rosales preaches family over everything, and we really are a family.”

“Let’s pick up where we left off,” said Phillips. “Continue to build off of that and keep going.”

For others, it means moving on but cherishing the memories of their time as a Hornet.

“Emporia State, thank you for these last four years. For giving us support every single game and really showing that you cared for us,” said Wayne. “That meant a lot.”

“To my teammates, just have fun,” said LeClair. “Just soak in every day.”

He also has a message for his alma mater. “Thank you for welcoming me with open arms. I transferred to ESU, and it felt like I didn’t skip a beat.

I want to thank Emporia State and the Emporia community for the best three years of my life.”

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Spotlight on Alumni 1950

Dr. John A LeBar (MS 59-Physical Education), Durham, N.C., had his book "Marching Toward Madness: How to Save the Games You Always Loved" published.

Dr. Charles F. Malone (BSE 50-Elementary Education), Tempe, Ariz., authored his fourth book, "A Superintendent's Guide to the Instructional Leadership of Elementary Principals." He is a retired professor from Arizona State University-Tempe.

He continues to play handball where he has won three national agegroup championships and one world championship. Dr. Malone wants to express a "Shout Out" to all his former classmates. Go Hornets! Thanks for a quality education!

Donald E. Schiesser (BA 57-Physics), Allen, celebrated 60 years with American Legion Post No. 389.

1960

Donald R. "Don" Alpaugh (BS 66-Business Administration, MS 69-Business Administration), Leawood, recently retired after 52 years of teaching business and technology classes and coaching football, track, and wrestling.

Dr. Gary G. Bitter (MA 65-Mathematics), Scottsdale, Ariz., has recently become professor emeritus from Arizona State University's Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College after 50 years of teaching.

Dan K. Coup (BSB 69-Business Administration), Hope, retired after 51 years as president & CEO of The First National Bank of Hope.

Ed C. Eilert (BSB 61-Business Education, MS 62-Business Education), Overland Park, has been named one of two recipients of the Outstanding Kansas Citian of the Year award.

Bill D. Hammers (BSE 63-Mathematics), Clearwater, founder of Schedule Source and TeamWork Expert, retired in December of 2019. Bill and wife Beverly R. (Maechtlen) Hammers (BSB 63-Business Administration) were also inducted into the Kansas Bluegrass Hall of Fame at the February 2020 Kansas Bluegrass Association Winter Festival in Wichita, Kansas.

22

Carolyn A. (Rosecrans) Langenwalter Walter (BSE 64-Elementary Education, MS 69-Educational Administration), Calvin, Okla., won over thousands of people with a social media video doing box jumps during her weekly workouts at 81 years of age.

Doug Lewis (BA 68-Business Administration), Houston, Texas, was a speaker and panelist as part of the United States Election Assistance Commission at the 2020 Accessibility and Security Forum in Washington, D.C. Rev. Loren & Donna (Weak) Marler (BSE 67-Elementary Education, MS 76-Educational Administration), Salina, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on May 31, 2020.

Coach James H. Mathis (MS 68-Business Education), Leavenworth, retired from Leavenworth USD 453 after working 53 years as a teacher and tennis coach. He also wrote a book entitled "Leavenworth, A Legacy of Tennis" about famous tennis players who passed through Kansas.

1970

Richard D. Becerra (BA 77-Speech), Bremerton, Wash., retired after 30 years of federal service.

Steve Coen (BSB 76-Business Administration), Andover, became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Cynthia J. (Pendleton) Eisenhauer (BSE 70-English), Kansas City, Mo., became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Ben L. Ford (BSB 71-Business Administration), Kansas City, Mo., was inducted into the 2019 United States Tennis Association Heart of America's Hall of Fame.

Mark R. Frase (BSE 71-Physical Education), Olathe, was inducted into the Greater Kansas City Football Association Hall of Fame in 2020.

Paul J. Haltom (BSB 74-Business Administration), Frisco, Texas, has retired from Premier Pipe.

James Hand (BSB 70-Accounting), Wichita, partner with Koch, Siedhoff, Hand & Dunn, retired on June 30, 2019, after 49 years in accounting. He has been a long-time community volunteer and was honored by being selected Admiral Windwagon Smith XXI in 1994 for the

New job? Recently retired? Newly married? New addition to your family? Need to update your information? Visit emporia.edu/alumni/request-information.html Wichita River Festival. He has served on numerous boards, including Wichita River Festival, Botanica, Quivira Council of Boy Scouts, and Ronald McDonald House.

Dorine (Dilak) Harter (BSB 72-Business Administration, MS 73-Business Administration), Emporia, became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Dr. W. Brock Kretsinger (BA 70-Chemistry, Biology), Emporia, became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Dr. Christopher C. Lovett (MA 75-Social Sciences, MLS 78-Library Science), Topeka, received the Edgar Langsdorf Award for Excellence by the Kansas Historical Society Foundation for "Bad Girls: Sex, Shame, Public Health, and the Forgotten Legacy of Samuel J. Crumbine, 1917-1955."

Raymond L. McIntosh (BS 76-Elementary Education) Pratt, retired from the Kansas Department of Transportation after 40 years as an engineering technician.

Dr. David A. Miller (BS 78-Biology), Emporia, has retired as a long-time optometrist after 38 years of practice in Emporia.

Rick M. Pock (BSB 75-Business Administration), Emporia, recently retired after 40 years from the United Parcel Service.

Kevin E. J. Regan (BS 77-Sociology, Anthropology), Kansas City, Mo., of the Regan Law Firm, L.L.C., was recently elected to serve as a trustee with the Missouri Bar Foundation Board of Trustees. He was also recently made an honorary life member of the Special Forces Association, Bull Simons Chapter, a rare honor bestowed upon a civilian by Special Forces soldiers.

Angie M. (Moreland) Schreiber (BSE 79-Speech, BSB 84-Accounting), Emporia, was the 2019 Wilson Anderson Award recipient from the KansasMissouri Branch of the International Dyslexia Association.

Rep. Mark A. Schreiber (BS 78-Biology, MS 81-Biology) and Angie M. (Moreland) Schreiber (BSE 79-Speech, BSB 84-Accounting), Emporia, were recently named the honorary chairs of this year's SOS Hope-A-Palooza.

Dr. Randal W. "Randy" Scott (BS 79-Chemistry), Los Altos Hills, Calif., was appointed to the Board of Directors of BridgeBio Pharma, Inc., in June 2020.

Carla J. (Bailey) Smith (BSE 75-Elementary Education, MS 77-Curriculum and Instruction), Wichita, became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Steve W. Steffes (BS 77-Industrial Education), McPherson, retired on July 1, 2020, after 34 years as senior project engineer with CertainTeed, primarily in the R&D group. Steve had 45 patents issued for various building products.

Brian L. Tichenor (BS 76-Physical Science), Marion, recently retired from Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control.

Dr. Jacqueline A. "Jackie" (Basham) Vietti (BSE 71-Secondary Education), Kansas City, Mo., received the CASE District VI Chief Executive Leadership Award.

Craig A. Wulf (BSE 73-Industrial Education), Wichita, retired as a Farmers Insurance agent in May 2019.

1980

Carla J. (Kivitter) Betik (BSE 89-Elementary Education), Ennis, Texas, retired in May 2020 after 29 years of teaching elementary students.

She taught at Ennis ISD for 11 years and spent the last 18 years with ScurryRosser ISD. Dr. Lendi L. (Grimsley) Bland (BSE 83-Elementary Education, MS 97-Curriculum & Instruction), Americus, received the Excellence in Professional Service Award from The Teacher's College of Emporia State University.

Dr. Teresa L. Clounch (BSB 89-Business Administration, MS 96-Counselor Education), Hays, started a new job as senior diversity officer at Fort Hays State University.

Bill D. Fiscus (BSB 85-Business Administration), Chanute, is the new chief executive officer of Tri-Valley Developmental Services.

Penny M. (Grahem) Guy (BSE 80-Elementary Education), Topeka, retired from teaching 8th grade math at Seaman Middle School. She taught for

34 years in Seaman USD 345, while her entire teaching career spanned 37 years.

Kathy L. (Worley) Hageman (BSE 82-English), Abilene, received two first place awards from the Kansas Press Association for her stories.

Eric Hughes (BSB 81-Business Administration), Olathe, was recently named Citizen of the Year by the Olathe Chamber of Commerce.

Mary T. (Forst) Joerg (BSB 85-Accounting), Wichita, received the 2020 CFO Award from the Wichita Business Journal.

Greg H. Kossover (BSB 85- Accounting), Wichita, has been named chief operating officer of Equity Bancshares, Inc. Mike D. Law (BSB 81-Business Administration), Olathe, ESU Foundation trustee, is the father of Abby Law (also granddaughter to Trustee Emeritus Marvin Klein), who starred in her husband Dan Smyer's (of the hit country music duo Dan & Shay) music video "10,000 Hours" with Justin Bieber and his wife.

Sheryl L. Leeds (BSE 86-Elementary Education, MS 01-Educational Administration), Winfield, has been named assistant principal for Emporia High School.

Dr. James D. "Jim" Persinger (BA 88-Psychology, Sociology, MS 90-Experimental Psychology), Lawrence, was interviewed with NBC's Today Show about parents using the Life360 app to keep track of their adult children.

Janine M. (Gahagan) Pippig (BSE 95-English), El Dorado, retired June 1, 2020, from El Dorado USD 490 after 35 years as a teacher and librarian.

Aline E. Pryor (BS 83-Psychology), Overland Park, was honored as Professional of the Year for two consecutive years and as VIP by Strathmore's Who's Who Worldwide for her outstanding achievements and success in the field of law.

James L. Stone (BSB 86-Computer Information Systems), Little Elm, Texas, is now working for Securonix as the corporate controller.

Susan J. Thomas (BS 86-Psychology), Danville, Calif., is the owner of 10Fold. The company was honored with 13 awards for PR, marketing, and videography throughout the year. They

were also named a Bronze Agency of the Year from American Business Publishing; Agency of the Year award from PR News; and an Agency Elite award from PR News. Susan was named Agency Leader of the Year by PRSA and was a Top Woman-Owned Business in the SF Bay Area from the San Francisco Business Times.

District Magistrate Judge Mary B. Thrower (BS 83-Sociology), Minneapolis, retired after serving 14 years in the 28th Judicial District.

Dr. Dianne H. Welsh (MS 84-Psychology), Greensboro, N.C., has authored the book "Creative CrossDisciplinary Entrepreneurship: A Practical Guide" (Palgrave-Macmillan).

At UNC, they have won seven national and international awards for the crossdisciplinary program in its 12th year, with 50 entrepreneurship courses in 27 departments across campus.

John T. "Jay" Wieland (BS 81-Public Affairs), Paola, retired from the City of Paola at the end of 2019.

Tamara L. "Tammy" (Biggerstaff) Wilkerson (BSB 85-Business Administration, MBA 90-Business Administration, MS 90-Counselor Education) and Mike Wilkerson, Lawrence, celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on October 8, 2019.

1990

Dr. Joan D. (Carley) Brewer (BSE 91-Mathematics, MS 94-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Emporia, was named dean of The Teachers College at Emporia State University.

Scott C. Brunner (BA 92-Political Science, English), Topeka, has been appointed as deputy secretary for the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services.

Michael J. Burbach (BSB 96-Accounting), Overland Park, became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Steven F. "Steve" Bushnell (BSE 91-Physical Education), Topeka, will become Seaman High's new athletic director.

Alex J. Carvalho (MBA 96-Business Administration), Hutchinson, is the president of Probitas Wealth Management.

fall 2020 23

Frances B. Clymer (MLS 98-Library Science), Cody, Wyo., retired after 15 years as the director of the Park County Library System.

Dr. Jessica R. Dain (BSE 95-English, BSE 95-Physical Education, MS-98 Educational Administration), Olathe, is the new superintendent for Piper Public Schools.

David E. Decker (BSB 99-Business Administration, MBA 02-Business Administration), Newton, has been named the new director of business services for Newton USD 373.

Frank E. Durbian (MS 96-Biology), Upham, N.D., has been named the new manager of the National Elk Refuge.

Ronald L. "Ron" Frierson, Jr. (BS 96-Social Sciences), Los Angeles, Calif., became a new trustee on the Emporia State University Foundation Board.

Jason D. Gwartney (BSB 97-Marketing), Olathe, is the new customer support director at NAVEX Global.

Ken L. Harmon (BSB 95-Computer Information Systems), Maize, has been hired as the new chief information officer for Wichita State University.

Greg A. Harvey (BSB 95-Finance), Overland Park, was included in the Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors list for 2020.

Matthew E. Hulsey (BSB 99-Computer Information Systems), Saint Augustine, Fla., was recently promoted to regional external services and business development manager for City Facilities Management, serving the Walmart contract for 1,300 stores on the east coast.

Kacie L. (Knox) Johnson (BA 96-Communication), El Dorado, is one of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients.

Alice M. (Hart) Julian (MLS 93-Library Science), Rineyville, Ky., will start a new position as site superintendent at Fort Union Trading Post.

Melissa D. Kersey (BSB 95-Marketing), Elmhurst, Ill., was named executive vice president and chief human resources officer for Tractor Supply Company.

Allison V. Lebel (MLS 90-Library Science), Fort Collins, Colo., received the Colorado State University Libraries Faculty Award for Excellence.

John D. "Trey" McPherson III (BSB 92-Business Administration), Hutchinson, has received the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of 24

Commerce Small Business of the Month for January award for his business, Hubco.

Rose Nelson (MLS 97-Library Science), Lakewood, Colo., has been named a 2020 recipient of the Hugh C. Atkinson Memorial Award, which recognizes significant contributions in the area of library automation or management and has made notable improvements in library services or research.

Tiffany C. Nickel (BSE 95-Elementary Education), Wichita, completed her Master of Science in Special Education degree from Baker University in December 2019. She was also recognized in March 2020 for 20 years of teaching in Wichita USD 259.

Bradley A. "Brad" Nicks (BSE 99-Mathematics, BSE 99-Physical Education), Topeka, is the new head football coach for Abilene High School.

Carrie E. Norton (BSB 97-Marketing), Overland Park, started a new position as customer success manager at PGi. Julianne M. "Juli" Piper-Talkington (BFA 99-Communication), Olathe, received the 2019 District Sales Representative of the Year award for Norfolk Iron and Metal.

Brian D. Protheroe (BFA 96-Communication), San Francisco, Calif., is the new director of learning & development at First Republic Bank.

Shane Windmeyer (BFA 95-Communication), Charlotte, N.C., was crowned the National Entertainer of the Year 2019-2020 at the C2 Event Venue in Louisville, Kentucky.

Heather A. (Leverington) Dotterer (BS 02-Recreation), Bellefonte, Pa., a five-time track national champion at ESU, was inducted into the 2020 Kansas Sports Hall of Fame.

Luke M. Freeman (BS 04-Biology), Au Gres, Mich., received a Master of Arts in Teaching with an emphasis in Secondary Education at Greenville University in 2011. He is currently teaching at AuGres-Sims High School in the Biology Department.

Robert F. "Rob" Gilligan (BFA 02-Communication), Emporia, became director of Ignite Emporia for the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, Convention, and Visitors Bureau.

Kim M. (Gibson) Grooms (BSB 01-Business Administration), Lawrence, was promoted to manager of investments reporting at Security Benefit.

Dr. Pamela L. Hanks (MS 07-Instructional Design & Technology), Pulaski, Va., recently earned her doctoral degree in community college leadership from Old Dominion University's Darden College of Education and Professional Studies.

Daniel G. "Dan" Hoelter (BSB 05-Business Administration), Smyrna, Ga., started a new position as vice president of operations for Whisps.

2000

Holly D. (Haines) Bright (BSE 08-Elementary Education), El Dorado, was among seven members of the 2020 class of Kansas Master Teachers.

Cory Cannon (BA 01-Political Science), Temple, Texas, established Cannon-Lear Enterprises L.L.C., a knowledge and innovation consulting company.

Luke M. Costello (BSB 08-Accounting), Keenesburg, Colo., is the regional sales manager at Phython Extraction Systems.

Casey M. Creehan (MS 06-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Peru, Neb., is the new head football coach for Peru State University.

Kari D. (Bailey) Crump (BSB 04-Marketing), Manhattan, is the new marketing manager for HCI Hospitality.

Be A Part Of ESU History!

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

Ryan J. Horsch (BS 06-Psychology, MS 09-Mental Health Counseling), Emporia, received the Career Services Member of the Year award from the Kansas Association of Colleges and Employers.

Erica R. (Young) Huggard (BSE 06-Biology, Health Education), Emporia, was among seven members of the 2020 class of Kansas Master Teachers.

Jayme R. Hurley (MS 06-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation, MS 09-Educational Administration), Independence, Iowa, is the new junior/ senior high school principal at Manson Northwest Webster.

Rebecca "Becca" Kabasa (MLS 09-Library Science), Boise, Idaho, is the new director for ESU's School of Library and Information Management.

Dr. Jared D. Larson (BA 02-Foreign Language, Social Sciences) started a new job at Humboldt State University as a lecturer in politics.

Jessica B. (Isakson) Martin (BSB 09-Accounting, MBA 10-Accounting, Business Administration), Topeka, was promoted to manager for cost accounting & budget for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas.

Brandon E. Mauler (BSB 06-Business Administration), Fort Myers, Fla., started a new position as an insurance agent at State Farm.

Michelle L. McCormick (BS 01-Sociology), Topeka, has been named the new director of the Victims' Services Division in the Attorney General's office.

Bill F. McKernan (BS 01-Business Administration), Emporia, was promoted to director of Facilities at Emporia State University.

Darcy A. (Illk) Meier (BSB 05-Management), Redmond, Wash., recently became the director of eCommerce category & customer development for Newell Brands.

Brandon P. Mellen (BSE 00-Physical Education, Business Education, MS 04-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Lawrence, is the new athletic director at Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School in Lima, Peru.

Melissa N. (Koch) Merriam (BSB 00-Management), Overland Park, started a new job as a closing team member at Target.

Carmen L. Patterson (BFA 07-Communication), St. Paul, Minn., recently began work as a licensed realtor for Kris Lindahl Real Estate.

Brad Phillips (MS 06-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Swainsboro, Ga., has been named the new women's basketball head coach at Crowley's Ridge College.

Samuel T. Rinkel (BSB 01-Management, MBA 03-Business Administration), Hutchinson, started a new job as director of purchasing at Hutchinson Clinic.

Chad L. Rummel (BSE 03-Business Education, Journalism), Washington, D.C., began a new job as the executive director at The Council for Exceptional Children.

Jesse D. Shaw (MS 08-Educational Administration), St. Louis, Mo., is the new men's head basketball coach for Maryville University.

Rupinder S. Sohal (MBA 08-Information Systems, Business Administration), Santa Clarita, Calif., started a new position as program manager of commercial strategic accounts at Farmers Insurance.

Jim Swetye (MS 08-Curriculum & Instruction), Salem, Ohio, has been appointed to serve on the Board of the Hydraulic Institute (HI) for 2020-2021 as vice president of education.

Ginger A. Wilcox (MBA 00-Business Administration), Bella Vista, Ark., has started a new job as a national account manager at MGA Entertainment.

2010

Abbas I. Alnamar (BSB 11-Computer Information Systems, Information Systems), Emporia, started a new job as the information technology support specialist at Emporia State University.

Geoff D. Andrews (MS 11- Educational Admin Prek-12), Salina, is the new Salina Catholic Schools superintendent.

Addyson T. "Addy" Barr (BSE 18-Elementary Education), Lees Summit, Mo., was nominated for the North Kansas City Schools 2020 Culture of Excellence in Teaching Award.

Jason W. Bates (BSE 10-Physical Education), Iola, is the coach of Iola's first state champion wrestler, Logan Brown.

Kobe A. Brown (BS 19-Crime & Delinquency Studies), Riley, was sworn in as an officer of the Hutchinson Police Department.

SGT Karsten L. Burns (BM 11-Music), Fort Sill, Okla., was runner-up for AC Soldier of the Year, 77th Army Band.

Nicole M. (Degen) Bush (BS 15-Psychology), Arlington, Texas, is a new counseling intern for the Southern Methodist University Center for Family Counseling Clinic.

Addison L. Canidy (BFA 10-Career & Professional Communication, Communication), Fairburn, Ga., will become pastor at Changing a Generation Full Gospel Baptist Church.

Zach T. Carlson (MBA 13-Accounting, Business Administration), Wichita, started a new position as senior controller at InfoSync Services.

Clarissa Carrillo Martinez (BS 15-Economics), Liberal, has been selected as the new director for the Seward County United Way and started in the position on Feb. 26, 2020.

Zhixian Chen (BSB 19-Marketing), Whitestone, N.Y., is a marketing assistant for Golden Bridge Construction LLC. Mitch E. Child (BSB 13-Business Administration), Eudora, is an internal auditor for CURO Financial Technologies Corp.

Heather E. (Wootton) Corley (MS 15-Instructional Design & Technology), Westphalia, is one of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients.

Amber N. Cox (BSB 19-Marketing), Bonner Springs, started a new job at Nexus IT Group as an information technology recruiter.

Lindsay L. Cuadra (BSB 15-Accounting), Baltimore, Md., is a new staff tax accountant at SC&H Group.

Todd Deck (MLS 14-Library Science), Redding, Calif., has been appointed to the California Center for the Book Advisory Council.

Beth J. Denker (MLS 14-Library Science), Denver, Colo., has been named a 2020 recipient of the Hugh C. Atkinson Memorial Award, which recognizes significant contributions in the area of library automation or management and has made notable improvements in library services or research.

Amy J. DeWild (MACC 16-Accountancy), Carl Junction, Mo., is the owner of AJD Accounting Solutions, LLC. Elly M. Dice (BSE 17-Social Sciences), Emporia, is one of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients.

Maddie M. Donatell-Chandler (BS 18-Marketing), Salina, started a new position as a wedding coordinator at Magnolia Venue and Urban Garden.

fall 2020 25

John C. Esh (MLS 19-Libary Science), Portland, Ore., is the new processing archivist at the Albert S. Cook Library at Towson University.

Brittany Fischer (MLS 19-Library Science), Sioux Falls, S.D., has accepted the position of scholarly communications and social sciences librarian at the Chester Fritz Library at the University of North Dakota.

Tiah-lynne J. "Tiah" Frankish (MLS 10-Library Science), Brighton, Colo., received the Association of Libraries President's Award.

Jessica A. Fredrickson (MLS 17-Library Science), Parker, Colo., was elected to the Colorado Libraries for Early Literacy Steering Committee and will be serving on the Advocacy and Training Subcommittee.

Alexis R. Gatson (BA 14-Political Science), Kansas City, is the new information technology support specialist for the U.S. Census Bureau.

Bertha J. Guillen (BSB 13-Information Systems), Emporia, started a new position as HRIS analyst at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City.

Dulce M. Guillen (BSB 19-Accounting), Emporia, started a new position as accounts receivable-credit and collections administrator at Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation.

Jason C. Hart (BSB 16-Business Administration), Emporia, started working at Liberty National Life Insurance Company as a producer.

Guannan He (MBA 12-Business Administration), Emporia, started a new position as VP premier relationship manager at HSBC. Keith D. Hernandez (BS 10-Recreation), Olathe, has been inducted into the MIAA Hall of fame for his time as a Hornet baseball player. He was the 2008 ABCA NCAA Division II baseball player of the year and first team All-American.

Brianna K. Hoffman (MLS 13-Library Science), Kennewick, Wash., was appointed executive director of the Washington Library Association.

Emily M. Huston (BS 12-Athletic Training), Fairbanks, Alaska, provides orthopedic services to a local high school, the Alaska State Troopers, and the collegiate summer league baseball team. However, with school and sports cancelled, she is currently working out of the hospital and on the front lines for the COVID-19 pandemic. She is one of only a handful of athletic trainers in Alaska and one of the northern most practicing in the world!

26

Joshua D. Hypse (MS 11-Clinical Psychology),Topeka, started a new job working for Acumen Assessments as a forensic clinical psychologist.

Samuel T. "Sam" Jack (MLS 16-Library Science), Goddard, started a new position as public relations and special services supervisor at the Newton Public Library.

Jordan J. Jackson (BS 18-Business Administration), Bonner Springs, started a new position as system administrator at T-Mobile.

Sarah E. Jones (MLS 16-Library Science), Carlsbad, N.M., is the new director of the Carlsbad Public Library.

Hyeonji Kim (BS 19-Accounting), Emporia, started a new position as accounting specialist at Hyundai Transys.

Christopher T. King (BSB 19-Business Administration), Emporia, was recently hired as a claims adjuster at Traders Insurance.

Victoria J. (Soileau) Kratzberg (BSB 16-Accounting), Gardner, was promoted to assistant vice-president and operations manager at PNC Bank.

Addie M. Lackey (BSB 17-Accounting), Lees Summit, Mo., is the audit associate at BKD CPAs and Advisors.

Bailey M. Lampton (BS 18-Biology, MS 19-Biology), Platte City, Mo., was promoted to scientist I virology at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA, Inc. Abbie M. Lavin (BSE 19-Elementary Education), Lenexa, won an award from the Kansas Association of American Educators. She is a new first grade teacher in USD 512 Shawnee Mission.

Oscar A. Lemus (BSB 16-Accounting, MA 17-Accountancy), Park City, started a new job at K-Coe Isom, LLP as an associate.

Lillian G. Lingenfelter (BSE 18-Social Sciences), Emporia, is one of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients.

Daniel D. "Danny" Lorenzen (BS 17-Physics), Kansas City, Mo., is a new business analyst for Savion, LLC. Jonatan Manriquez (BSB 19-Business Administration), Overland Park, is a conversion support consultant for Apex Systems.

Clay M. Mettlen (MS 14-Educational Administration), La Cygne, is the new assistant principal at Central High School.

Kaila Mock (BFA 13-Art) Emporia, celebrated the grand opening of her new business Trox Gallery and Gifts.

Kelly L. Moten (MS 17-Crime & Delinquency Studies), Wasserburg, Germany, was awarded the German League's DBBL Player of the Year, Guard of the Year, and Import Player of the Year.

Anita Muniz (BSB 15-Business Administration, MBA 17-Business Administration), Kansas City, has started a new position as WYCO IRIS community connector lead at the University of Kansas Medical Center.

Lacee E. (Hanson) Newton (BA 11-Public Relations, Communication), Lawrence, is the new events specialist for the KU School of Public Affairs & Administration.

Dr. Damara G. Paris (CRT 16), Salem, Ore., was given The Excellence in Scholarly Activity award, which recognizes a faculty member who exhibits high value in working collaboratively with colleagues across the university and within the larger field, by The Teachers College of Emporia State University. She was also the recipient of ESU's Ruth Schillinger Award during Women's History month.

Jon N. Parker (MS 16-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Broken Arrow, Okla., has been named the new head women's tennis coach at Southwest Minnesota State University.

Dalton G. Piecukonis (BSB 14-Marketing), Manhattan, started a new position as enterprise account manager at CivicPlus.

Jennifer D. (Long) Plummer (BID 16-Interdisciplinary Studies), Burlington, became an office manager at Lewis Oil Company, Inc. Scott A. Powers (BS 12-Health Promotion, Coaching), Emporia, owner of Powers Forge Works, appeared on an episode of the History Channel's "Forged in Fire," a show which challenges bladesmiths to re-create some of the most iconic weapons in history.

Shannon M. (Hill) Price (BSB 11-Management), Emporia, started a new job at American Family Insurance as an office manager.

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Carson B. Proffitt (BSB 18-Marketing), Lewisville, Texas, is a sales account manager for Southwest Airlines.

Anna E. (Gardiner) Reindl (BSB 18-Business Administration), Gardner, was promoted to senior staffing specialist at Favorite Healthcare Staffing.

Kiplee G. Richards (BSB 18-Business Administration), El Dorado, started a new job as the receptionist at Wichita Habitat for Humanity.

Trent K. Rietzke (BSB 18-Marketing), Kearney, Neb., is the new construction manager for CenCon of Kansas, LLC. Ramon E. Rivera (BSB 17-Information Systems), Emporia, started the business Verde Leaf Artisanal Company.

Heather M. Robben (BSB 12-Marketing, MS 14-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Ada, Okla., was inducted into the Hutchinson Community College Quarterback Club Hall of Fame for basketball.

Leticia S. (Price) Rust (BIS 14-Interdisciplinary Studies, MBA 19-Business Administration), Hartford, student services professional for ESU's School of Business, was honored at this year's 2020 State Leadership Conference with the 2020 Kansas Advisor of the Year Award.

Arturo E. Sanchez (BS 19- Business), De Soto, started a new position as sales and marketing specialist at 365 Personnel.

Richard Sandstrom (MLS 15-Library Science), Sidney, Neb., was recently selected as the new director of the Sidney Public Library.

Saandhyarag Sasidar (BSB 19-Information Systems), Emporia, started a new job at Emporia State University as a web and media specialist.

Nicole M. "Nicki" Seeley (MS 12-Special Education), Derby, has been promoted to director of special services for Derby Public Schools.

Amanda M. Self (BSE 14-Biology), Kansas City, Mo., has been promoted to head softball coach at Liberty North High School.

Cory A. Shovick (BS 17-Recreation), Osawatomie, has taken over the role of youth sports director for the Osawatomie Recreation Commission.

Taylor L. Smith (BS 18-Biology), St. Joseph, Mo., accepted a position at Boehringer Ingelheim in the Immunology/Assay Transfer Group.

Ryan C. Smith (BSB 18-Business Administration), Shawnee, started a new position as senior carrier sales representative at Ryan Transportation Service, Inc. Caleb Smith (MS 11-Educational Administration), Wichita, has been hired as the new principal for Newton High School.

Mason K. Teeter (BSB 14-Information Systems), Caldwell, is in IT Services for KanOkla Networks.

Adam Thies (BSB 19-Business Administration), Olathe, has started a new job at Fidelity Investments as a financial representative.

Lisa A. (Prater) Tinker (BFA 16-Theatre), Arvada, Colo., started a new position as production manager & resident stage manager at Curious Theatre Company.

Micheal R. Torres (BA 15-Communication, Modern Language), Kansas City, Mo., is the new general manager at Subway.

Patrick L. Vanstrom (BS 16-Business Administration), Overland Park, started a new position as facilities coordinator at NBH Bank.

Dorine S. R. Vassal (BSB 16-Management), Fay Aux Loges, France, has started a new position as talent acquisition manager at Hubworkair.

Erin L. (Gerhardt) Verbick (MLS 19-Library Science), Hiawatha, has been promoted to director at Morrill Public Library.

Renee J. Walker (MLS 19-Library Science), Joplin, Mo., has accepted a position as librarian II at the Jefferson City Correctional Center.

T'Quan D. Wallace (BSB 19-Business Administration), Oklahoma City, Okla., is a new program analyst for the Air Force Civilian Service.

fall 2020 27

Michael A. Webb (BSB 19-Management), Little Rock, Ark., has been selected as one of this year's McLarty Scholars for demonstrating a depth of knowledge of and a commitment to human rights and empowerment.

Ellen E. Welander (MS 19-Physical Science), Olathe, has joined the Trace Evidence Team at the KBI Forensic Science Laboratory in Topeka.

Kevin J. Wempe (BSB 11-Business Administration, Financial Services), Kansas City, Mo., has become one of two shareholders for Gilmore & Bell, P.C. Colton S. Whaley (BSB 17-Marketing), Emporia, started a new position as e-commerce marketing and support at Dynamic Discs.

Jacob T. White (BFA 11-Public Relations), Lawrence, has become an assistant golf pro for Sycamore Ridge Golf Course.

Samantha White (MLS 17-Library Science), Ukiah, Calif., was named the new children's librarian at the Ukiah Public Library.

Caleb Wiens (BSB 19-Accounting), Wichita, began working as a staff accountant for Equity Bank.

Chelsey M. Wilson (BSE 17-Elementary Education), Nortonville, accepted a third grade teaching position at Community Elementary in Coffeyville USD 445.

Gary R. Woods II (BS 19-Marketing), Oklahoma City, Okla., started a new position as account manager at CenturyLink.

Rui Yang (BSB 15-Marketing, MBA 17-Business Administration), Guangzhou Guangdong, China, is the overseas manager at Art3d LLC.

2020

Emily P. Babcock (BS 2020-Management), Lansing, started a new position as assistant manager at Shoe Sensation, Inc. Ashley D. Clifton (BA 2020-Chemistry), Derby, is beginning the PhD Chemistry Program at the University of NebraskaLincoln.

Bradley C.P. Corbett (BS 2020-Chemistry), Vinita, Okla., has joined Southwestern Oklahoma University as a stockroom manager and lab coordinator.

Hornet Travel Opportunities

If you would like to receive information on our upcoming Hornet trips, please contact Laurie Pitman at lpitman@emporia.edu 28

Yifang Hau (MBA 2020-Business Administration), Guangzhou, China, was accepted into the International Business-Administration doctoral program at Saint Louis University.

Xixi Li (MBA 2020-Business Administration), Guangzhou, China, was admitted to Saint Louis University's doctoral program in International Business and Marketing.

Lawrence D. Meier (BSE 2020-Physical Science), Olathe, has been hired as a science/chemistry teacher for DeSoto High School USD 232.

Jordon O'Brien (MS 2020-Health, Physical Education, & Recreation), Dodge City, has been named head women's basketball coach for Highland Community College.

FORMER STUDENTS

Mickey L. (Laurendine) Edwards, Emporia, was named the executive director for The United Way of the Flint Hills.

Nicole G. E. Gingery, Lincoln, Neb., was hired as the volleyball coach at Lincoln East High School.

Don A. Hill, Emporia, was recognized with this year's Lifetime Achievement Award at the 123rd Annual Meeting of the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce.

Jayne Houdyshell, New York, N.Y., played the part of the family's housekeeper in the new movie "Little Women."

Nolan A. Kehres, Olpe, has started a new job as a university police officer at Emporia State University.

Melissa A. Powelson, Baldwin City, CEO & founder of VIBE Interactive, has launched a pilot program in Lyon County, which will allow educators to figure out the best way to reach positive outcomes for individual children.

Patricia L. "Pat" (White) Sevier, Kansas City, was selected as a 2020 Black Woman of Distinction by Friends of Yates, Inc. Brad D. Yount, Emporia, was appointed president of Lyon county State Bank.

FRIENDS

Jamie A. Sauder, Emporia, received the Distinguished Service Award at the Sunflower Association of Realtors Inc. annual meeting.

Nuptials

Mike Flaigle and Allie Sanders (MS 16), March 9, 2019

Births

Brett Friend (BSB 10) and Amy Byfield (BS 10), August 24, 2019 Eric Porter (BSB 12) and Haley Gilman (BA 17), October 5, 2019 Dakota Gibson and Emmaline Durand (BSE 17), December 13, 2019

1

2

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4

5

Dr. Jared Larson (BA 02) and Giovanna Castro Salas, December 28, 2019 Austin Coats and Melissa Denning (BS 18), January 4, 2020 Keifer George and Zimeng "Luna" Li (CRT 18, MS 19), January 31, 2020 Evan Koehler (BSB 16) and Torrie Rupe (BSN 17), May 16, 2020 Scott Kusselson and Michelle Corkins (BSB 11), June 26, 2020

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.

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Logan James Friend, son, born to Brett (BSB 10) and Amy (Byfield) Friend (BS 10), August 22, 2018 Bennett Noreen Christian, son, born to Matt (BS 16) and Jessica (Stewart) Christian (BSE 09), February 19, 2019 Huiyun "Nora" Wang, daughter, born to Debin Wang and Xinyi Chen (BS 10), August 27, 2019 Gia Madison Smith, daughter, born to Jeremiah and Robin (Clarke) Smith (BSE 00), September 6, 2019 Gracie Ximena Hagler, daughter, born to Dakota (BS 13) and Enilisse (Ortiz) Hagler (BSB 13), October 8, 2019 Brixlee Renee Brattin-Volkens, daughter, born to Alli (BS 11) and Aubree Brattin-Volkens (BS 10), November 13, 2019 Brooks Earl Bell, son, born to Tory (BS 15) and Kaila Bell, December 8, 2019 Noelle Rae Taylor, daughter, born to Joshua (BS 16) and Nichole (Combes) Taylor (BSB 06), December 29, 2019 Emery Kaye Gillett, daughter, born to Matt (BS 16) and Taylor Gillett, December 30, 2019 Jasmine Ruby Geis, daughter, born to Grant (BSE 08, MS 19) and Melissa (Coleman) Geis (BSE 08, MS 11), December 31, 2019 Natalie Rose Dilling, daughter, born to Travis and Mandi (Hulme) Dilling (BSB 07), January 6, 2020

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Cameron David Soto, son, born to Diego and Megan (Dennis) Soto (BSB 10), January 23, 2020 Emilie Marie Livingston, daughter, born to David and Theresa (Holderbach) Livingston (BSE 05), January 10, 2018 Anthony Thomas Livingston, son, born to David and Theresa (Holderbach) Livingston (BSE 05, MS 10), February 2, 2020 Evelyn Lou Klassen, daughter, born to Aaron and Courtney (Weber) Klassen (BSE 16), February 10, 2020 Ryla Mae Houser, daughter, born to Clayton "Clay" (BSB 11) and Randielle (Pierson) Houser (BSE 11), February 11, 2020 Westley David Nichols, son, born to David and Sarah (Farrell) Nichols (BS 09), February 14, 2020 Charlotte Pretz, daughter, born to Eric (BME 04, MM 06) and Kathleen Pretz, March 18, 2020 Brinley Ann Albers, daughter, born to Marc (BSB 10) and Hailey (Daggett) Albers (BID 12), March 19, 2020

10 Willow Rose Maydew, daughter, born to Payson (BSB 16, MBA 18) and Savannah "Sage" (Thompson) Maydew (BSE 15), March 23, 2020 Adelaide Sue Christian, daughter, born to Matt (BS 16) and Jessica (Stewart) Christian (BSE 09), March 31, 2020 McCoy Carl Maxson, son, born to Justin (BFA 12) and Karley (Schmelzer) Maxson (BSE 14, MS 17), April 20, 2020 Olivia Mae Schwartz, daughter, born to Mac (BSB 09, MBA 11) and Caitlin (Riley) Schwartz (MS 18), April 22, 2020 Zander Yang, son, born to Angel Yang (MM 09), April 25, 2020 Sienna Jean Doty, daughter, born to Craig and Lexie Doty, April 30, 2020 Charlotte Paige Verbick, daughter, born to Tyler and Erin (Gerhardt) Verbick (MLS 19), May 27, 2020

SIGN UP FOR CORKY’S CREW!

Did you or a Hornet you know have a new baby recently?

Then sign up for Corky’s Crew! This program features special gifts for our newest members of Hornet Nation.

To sign up, visit emporia.edu/crew

fall 2020 29

ESU Retirements Jim Bartruff, Emporia, retired on June 30, 2020, after 16 years, ending his career as professor and director of Theatre.

Mohammad Chowdhury, Emporia, retired on May 15, 2020, after 22 years, ending his career as professor in the School of Business.

Edwin Church, Kansas City, retired on May 15, 2020, after 19 years, ending his career as professor in School Leadership and Middle and Secondary Teachers Education.

Brad Gavin, Emporia, retired on March 27, 2020, after 13 years, ending his career as grounds maintenance supervisor in University Facilities.

Lawrence Lyman, Ottawa, retired on May 15, 2020, after 33 years, ending his career as professor in Early Education, Early Childhood, and Special Education.

John Rich, Emporia, retired on May 15, 2020, after 50 years, ending his career as professor in the School of Business.

In Memoriam 1940

Porita L. (Anderson) Allbert (LIF 49), Hoyt, Jan. 28, 2020 Eunice L. Bradley (BSE 48), Manhattan, Jan. 6, 2020 Leota E. "Lee" (Herren) Dooley (BSE 44), Nathrop, Colo., April 23, 2020 Jean T. (Teichgraeber) Duncan (BSE 48), Olympia Fields, Ill., Feb. 11, 2019 Bobbie R. (Boynton) Eubanks (BSE 48), Vinita, Okla., May 31, 2020 Wilma L. (Hefty) Fowler (BSE 49), Topeka, Jan. 25, 2020 Barbara J. (Hansen) Moore (BSB 49), Fayetteville, Ark., Feb. 9, 2020 Edith M. "Edie" (McCready) Mott (BA 47), San Diego, Calif., Jan. 23, 2019

1950

Ralph E. Bradley (BSE 59), Kansas City, Jan. 1, 2020 Dr. Robert L. Browne (BS 56), Sun City West, Ariz., April 7, 2020 Louis D. "Lou" Bruno (BA 57), Topeka, March 6, 2020 Marlyn K. Burch (BSB 57), Topeka, Feb. 8, 2020 Arliss D. Burns (BSB 55), Olathe, April 10, 2020 Dr. Jack L. Carter (BSE 53, MS 54), Denver, Colo., March 10, 2020 Genevieve "Gene" (Phillippar) Cramer (MS 58), South Hutchinson, Nov. 12, 2019 John O. Cyphert (BSB 56), Lenexa, April 14, 2020 M. Wayne Davidson (BSB 54), Leawood, May 11, 2020 30

Marjorie R. (Kling) Doyen (BSE 55), Bartlesville, Okla., Jan. 10, 2020 Joanne L. "Lois" (Ramy) Edmonds (BSE 50), Topeka, Feb. 28, 2020 Virginia S. (Green) Higgins (BSE 51), Hutchinson, Jan. 16, 2020 George T. Hurlburt (BSB 58), Smithville, Mo., July 7, 2019 Keith E. Kells (BA 58), Westminster, Colo., July 7, 2019 Capt. (Ret) Jerry M. Keltner (BSE 59), Anacortes, Wash., May 31, 2020 William M. "Bill" King (BA 56), Ladson, S.C., Feb. 25, 2020 Harry Robert "Bob" Kline (BSB 59), Boise, Idaho, June 24, 2020 Leland C. Kramer (BSE 59, MS 69), Lawrence, April 22, 2020 Clinton J. "Clint" Leon (BSE 58), Lawrence, April 1, 2020 Lloyd L. Lesley, Jr. (BSE 55, MS 56), Beloit, March 19, 2020 Jack D. Ring (BA 57), Mesa, Ariz., April 22, 2020 Allen Ross (BSB 57), Grand Junction, Colo., Feb. 28, 2020 James W. Sherbon (BME 59, MS 60), Lenexa, Jan. 2, 2020 Dr. Frank M. Sidorfsky (BME 52), Manhattan, March 24, 2020 Lovella K. (Kuepker) Smith (BSE 56, MS 62), Larned, April 26, 2020 John E. Sparling, Jr. (MS 56), Temple City, Calif., March 18, 2020 Beverly L. (Harrison) Stinson (BSE 55), Beloit, March 23, 2020 Gary J. Stroud (BME 55, MS 58), Topeka, Feb. 2, 2020

David Rodriguez, Emporia, retired on March 6, 2020, after 14 years, ending his career as custodial specialist in University Facilities.

Linda Ulrey, Emporia, retired on March 20, 2020, after 20 years, ending her career as a registered nurse in Student Health Services.

Joyce M. (Grieder) Whitson (BSE 57), Manhattan, April 10, 2020 Donald F. Wieland (BSB 55), Edmond, Okla., March 18, 2020 Bernard Williams (BSE 51), Wichita, March 16, 2020 Robert F. "Bob" Winter (BSB 57), Auburn, Feb. 17, 2020 Jean C. (Bright) Yannette (BSE 55), Juniper, Fla., March 27, 2019

1960

Richard L. Abel (BA 67), Derby, May 16, 2020 Patricia L. (Tollefson) Anderson (BS 64), Shawnee, March 19, 2020 W. Ruth (Dingwall) Anderson (BS 61), Belleville, Ill., April 18, 2020 Richard L. Ard (BS 67), Elsmore, Jan. 7, 2020 William T. Barker (BA 63, MS 67), Fargo, N.D., June 3, 2020 Gerald "Jerry" Barker (BS 64), Olathe, June 4, 2020 Robert D. Barnett (BS 65), Moundridge, April 12, 2020 Anthony A. "Tony" Beran, Jr. (BS 60), Aurora, Colo., Jan. 3, 2020 Judith L. (McWhirter) Bergee (BSE 69), Annandale, Minn., Nov. 26, 2019 Carol A. (Smith) Bichet (MS 64), Hutchinson, April 27, 2020 Ethel A. (Pratt) Bodge (BSE 60), Caldwell, May 21, 2020 James D. Bowden (BS 66), Shawnee, April 14, 2020 William D. Burns (BS 61), Mulvane, June 30, 2019

John L. Carmichael (EDS 67), Nevada, Mo., April 13, 2020 Patrick B. Cathers (BSB 65), Topeka, April 29, 2020 Merry L. (Steele) Charlsen (BA 66), Atchison, March 30, 2020 Mona L. Crane (BSE 65), Highland, Ind., April 3, 2020 Donald P. Cross (MS 62), Lexington, Ky., Feb. 2, 2020 Allen D. Daniels (MS 60), Derby, Nov. 24, 2018 Don A. Dayton (BSB 68), Lake Saint Louis, Mo., Aug. 24, 2019 Georgia L. Deatrick (MS 69), Topeka, Jan. 18, 2020 Constance E. "Conci" Denniston (MA 65), Fairway, Nov. 18, 2019 Phillip H. DeVoss (BSB 63), Wichita, April 1, 2020 John R. Didde (BSE 65), Overland Park, Feb. 27, 2020 Lavern L. Drapal (BS 60), Parsons, March 19, 2020 David "Tony" Dyer (BSE 60), Hutchinson, May 22, 2020 Thomas B. Eastman (BSB 66), Ferndale, Calif., April 30, 2020 Jesse L. Elrod (BSB 60), Tulsa, Okla., Dec. 29, 2019 Jack E. Estes (MS 65), Arkadelphia, Ark., June 11, 2020 William N. "Bill" Ginder (BSE 62, MS 67), El Dorado, May 18, 2020 Betty J. (Erhart) Bybee Shepard Gordon (MS 69), Port Saint Lucie, Fla., May 10, 2020 Albert R. Hatch (BSE 64, MS 70), Kinsley, Dec. 22, 2019 Kirk V. Hawkins (BSB 65), Topeka, June 13, 2020 Freda H. (Fitzsimmons) Helwig (BSE 69), Saint John, March 14, 2020

Hornet Heritage

The Hornet Heritage Family award recognizes a multigenerational family of Hornet alumni and former students with Hornet fever in their bloodlines. To nominate your family for this prestigious honor, visit emporia.edu/hornetheritage

Paul T. Hendrickson (BSB 60), Eureka, May 1, 2020 Nyla J. (Smith) Hobbs (BSE 62), Hesston, Feb. 13, 2020 Richard L. "Dick" Hoffman (MS 69), Lincoln, Neb., April 5, 2020 Dixie F. (Taggart) Hoogendoorn (BSE 62), Spring Hill, Feb. 1, 2020 Frank W. Huffman (BSE 65, MS 70), Marysville, March 20, 2020 Joyce G. (Leiss) Kennedy (BSE 69), Moundridge, April 29, 2020 Harold "Dean" Kimple (BSB 65), Wichita, Sept. 27, 2019 David V. Kingsley (BME 69, MS 73), Picayune, Miss., May 23, 2020 Paul W. Kircher (BSE 64, MS 69), Olathe, April 14, 2020 Lois Lichte Kruse (MS 69), Hutchinson, April 14, 2020 Bobby C. Lee (BSE 67), Springfield, Va., Dec. 12, 2019 Rita I. Leonardi (MS 67), Atchison, May 7, 2020 Boncilla J. "Jeanie" (Smith) Lowry (BSE 68), Wamego, May 2, 2020 Dr. Richard K. "Rich" Marks (BA 66), La Mesa, Calif., April 15, 2020 Stephen N. "Steve" McCoy (BSB 69), Napa, Calif., March 13, 2020 Warren E. McCoy (BSE 67), Marysville, Dec. 13, 2019 Nila A. (Noble) Meyer (BSE 60, MS 65), Osage City, May 15, 2020 Liz (Kabureck) Morford (BSE 69), Colorado Springs, Colo., March 27, 2020 Carol (Bell) Mozingo (BSE 63), Ft. Worth, Texas, Jan. 5, 2020 Myra G. (Lieurance) Munzinger (MS 67), Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 25, 2020 Jana Sue (Whaling) Noble (BSE 68), Arkansas City, Aug. 21, 2019 Marilyn (Hayden) Nuckolls (MS 67), Valley Center, June 15, 2019 Norma (Arb) Patterson (BSE 65, MS 70), Melvern, Jan. 29, 2020 Janelle L. (Hunt) Pritchard (BSE 67), Wichita, Feb. 29, 2020 Thomas H. Ptomey (BSE 64, MS 81), Shawnee Mission, June 17, 2019 Ronald Quattrini (BSE 62), Nassau, N.Y., June 14, 2020 Farris Razook (MS 61), Wichita, Feb. 12, 2020 William "Norman" Rees, Jr. (BA 62, MS 65), Carbondale, Ill., March 28, 2019 Gary D. Regehr (BSE 64), Hutchinson, Feb. 27, 2020

Mary Jane (Whittington) Remington (MS 64), Louisville, Colo., April 27, 2020 Stephen E. Robison (BSE 69), Wichita, April 13, 2020 Betty A. (Youngman) Sadler (BSE 68), Denver, Colo., June 1, 2020 Fred R. Saffer (BA 60), Saint Cloud, Fla., March 27, 2020 Warren W. Schultz (BA 64), Edgewater, Md., Feb. 7, 2020 Steven A. Scott (BA 69), Hesston, Jan. 12, 2017. Over the summer, the Birger Sandzen Gallery in Lindsborg, KS ran a gallery show of his work called Steve Scott is Steve Scott: The Life and Times of a Kansas Painter.

Arline B. (Thompson) Shaw (BSE 62), Mountain Home, Ark., June 1, 2020 Wallace E. Shelley (MS 68), Lawrence, Feb. 1, 2019 Sue A. (Novo- Gradac) Smith (BSE 61), Wichita, Jan. 2, 2020 Robert D. Smyth (BSE 63), Newton, March 25, 2020 Roy L. Stark (BSB 68, BS 68), Lakewood Ranch, Fla., Dec. 24, 2019 Gary L. Stotts (BSB 61, MS 64), Clearwater, Fla., April 11, 2020 Wesley A. Swanson (BSE 62, MS 70), Newton, Feb. 11, 2020 Ector I. Thyfault (BSE 63), Omaha, Neb., Jan. 17, 2020 Virden L. Turner (MS 65), Oklahoma City, Okla., July 24, 2019 Jimmie U. Webster (BME 67), Memphis, Tenn., March 16, 2020 Helen L. "Weezie" (Holmes) Wendler (BSE 60), Yukon, Okla., June 2, 2020 Allison P. Whitaker (MS 67), Wichita, Feb. 29, 2020 Cecil R. Wichert (MS 65), Topeka, April 30, 2020 Arlene M. (Herod) Wiler (BSE 68, MLS 96), Overland Park, June 3, 2020 Jack M. Williams (BSE 67), Missouri City, Texas, Dec. 27, 2019 Wesley "Bence" Williams (BSB 64, MS 69), Overland Park, May 10, 2020 Dr. Harold L. Willis (BA 62), Grove City, Pa., April 29, 2020 Kenneth Young (BSE 60, MS 67), Bella Vista, Ark., Nov. 4, 2019

1970

Wayne L. Ball (BS 72), Ankeny, Iowa, Jan. 15, 2020 Candace L. "Candy" (Jones) Bazil (BSE 70), Akron, Ohio, May 21, 2020

fall 2020

31

Gayle L. Bennett-Grant (BA 74), Kansas City, Mo., June 14, 2020 Daryl E. Billings (MS 75), Joplin, Mo., Jan. 2, 2020 Jennifer L. "Jenny" Bowman (BSE 76, MS 90), Topeka, Dec. 24, 2019 Lynn E. Burr (MA 70), Blue Springs, Mo., May 8, 2019 Elaine B. (Cook) Calvert (MS 71), Augusta, May 14, 2020 Pamela L. (Shockley) Caruzzi (MLS 77), Columbus, Ohio, Jan. 19, 2020 Diane F. (Wiens) Cline (BSE 73), Lindsborg, Feb. 13, 2020 Michael L. Crawford (BSB 71), Wichita, Jan. 29, 2020 Elyse R. (Culp) Crites (MS 71), Claremore, Okla., June 25, 2019 Ruth E. (Carr) Curless (MS 70), Haysville, July 24, 2019 Richard L. Dickson (BA 70), Wichita, Oct. 13, 2019 Terry E. Dielman (BA 73), Canton, Texas, Feb. 27, 2020 Lon W. Dillman (BSB 73), Mead, Colo., June 20, 2020 Daniel E. Dorris (MLS 76), Leavenworth, Jan. 5, 2020 Floyd J. Dorsey, Jr. (BS 77), Wamego, May 2, 2020 Benjamin J. "B.J." Eichem (MS 70), Wamego, March 23, 2020 Ronald D. Gould (MS 73), Kailua, Hawaii, Jan. 4, 2020 Nancy K. (Mercer) Griffin (BSB 75), Cedar Point, Feb. 25, 2020 Salvatore Guadagnino (BSE 74, MS 75), North Babylon, N.Y., Dec. 15, 2019 Ronald E. "Ron" Guthrie (BSE 71), Emporia, April 7, 2020 Beth (Honeycutt) Harrison (BSE 70, MS 71), Shawnee, May 13, 2020 Charles J. Hiestand (BSB 73), Topeka, Feb. 13, 2020 Deborah A. (Wells) Horwitz (BSE 72), Pittsburgh, Pa., Feb. 27, 2019 Joan E. (Jarrett) How (BSE 72), Springfield, Colo., March 13, 2019 Roberta M. (Ware) Hughes (MLS 71, MS 90), Augusta, May 12, 2020 Connie S. (Holder) Ishman (BSE 73), Valley Center, Jan. 21, 2020 Marvin E. Jones (BSE 71), Windsor, Conn., Feb. 22, 2020 Verne L. Kling (MA 76), Spartanburg, S.C., Aug. 31, 2018 Peter Marcus (MS 71), Ness City, Jan. 17, 2019 32

Mark Martinez (BA 72), Baldwin City, June 11, 2020 Donald G. Mason (BSB 79), Caldwell, Idaho, Oct. 9, 2019 Ronald L. May (BSE 70), Maiden, N.C., Oct. 4, 2019 Esta L. Meade (BSB 75), Topeka, March 16, 2020 Carol L. (Adams) Murra (MS 78), Brookings, S.D., May 31, 2020 Emily (Chavez) Pearson (BSE 71, MS 78), Topeka, May 10, 2020 Thomas V. Peterson (BSB 75), Kansas City, Mo., May 18, 2020 Dennis L. Pracht (BSB 70), Georgetown, Texas, March 29, 2020 Dennis L. "Denny" Privat (BA 71), Lawrence, May 20, 2020 Jerry W. Rice (BSE 75), Fredonia, Nov. 4, 2019 Daryl E. Rindt (BSB 76), Garden City, March 10, 2020 Joyce A. Roath (BA 72), Iola, May 31, 2020 Jonathan E. Romain (BGS 78), Wichita, June 1, 2019 Neil W. Seaman (MS 78), Overland Park, May 6, 2020 Robert C. Spears (MS 70), Winfield, April 19, 2020 Dr. M. Ali Tabidian (MS 79), San Diego, Calif., March 16 2020 Gwenda R. (Gunn) Wilcox (BSE 74), Topeka, Jan. 28, 2020 Karl L. Witten (BA 76, MS 78), Emporia, April 9, 2020 Michael E. Wood (BSB 73), Emporia, Aug. 17, 2019

1980

Rev. Larry L. Blazer (MS 87), Lakewood, Colo., April 18, 2020 Bertha M. Born (BS 88), Newton, Jan. 8, 2020 Thomas A. "Tom" Brosius (MS 82), Manhattan, Jan. 11, 2019 Patricia K. "Patsy" Cotte (MLS 89), Lawrence, March 25, 2019 Rita R. (Frye) Hegenbart (AS 84), Emporia, Sept. 1, 2019 Donald W. Hogan (BFA 87), Seattle, Wash., March 28, 2020 Mark E. Lane (BSE 82), Clay Center, Dec. 22, 2019 Michael A. Ramirez (BA 81), Lawrence, April 1, 2020 Barbara A. "Barb" Shull (BSB 83), Kansas City, April 7, 2020

Janet L. (Pepperdine) Smith (MS 89), Shawnee, Jan. 3, 2020 Gary A. Veenendaal (MS 89), Broomfield, Colo., May 18, 2020 Betty J. (Robinson) Williams (BSE 85), Florence, April 4, 2020 Kurt W. Young (BSB 84), McLouth, April 25, 2020

1990

Amy Jo Carlson (BS 94), Wamego, June 6, 2020 Timothy E. "Tim" Coen (BS 94), Gardner, April 26, 2020 Antonio G. Crump (MS 90), Fort Worth, Texas, Jan. 20, 2019 Dr. Andrea D. "Andy" Dudley (MS 99), Claremore, Okla., June 8, 2020 Dee A. (Patterson) Harnden (MS 90), Ottawa, Feb. 4, 2020 John D. Lexow (BSE 97), Emporia, Feb. 1, 2020 Donald Wayne "Don" Nelson (BSB 91), McPherson, March 23, 2020

David D. Pike (BS 94), Lawrence, June 16, 2020 Frances A. (Northup) Rasmussen (MLS 97), McMinnville, Ore., May 17, 2020 Michelle A. (Driscoll) Rees (BS 94, MS 97, EDS 99), Lawrence, Jan. 14, 2020 Dan C. Schmidt (BSE 91), Prairie Village, March 10, 2020 Brenda K. Shawley (BSE 92), Lawrence, March 29, 2020 Erin E. Weir (BS 91), Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 30, 2020 Owen E. Williams (MLS 96), Crookston, Minn., Jan. 22, 2020 Carol J. (Wise) Youngblood (BS 94), Emporia, April 24, 2020

2000

Kathleen Divis (MLS 09), Colville, Wa., April 16, 2019 Kimberly A. (Kratzberg) Gabauer (BS 07), Lawrence, March 2, 2020 Steven M. Goad (MS 03, EDS 04), Temple, Texas, Jan. 6, 2020 Pansy K. Hoover (BSB 03), Manhattan, Jan. 13, 2020 William C. "Bill" Maurer (MS 12), Southampton, Pa., Jan. 29, 2020

FORMER STUDENTS

Iola M. (Ubben) Albright, Wichita, June 9, 2020 Patricia A. "Pat" (Jones) Burgesss, Mercedes, Texas, Jan. 31, 2020 Paul S. Damron, Topeka, April 26, 2020 Dorothy E. (Ely) Foster, Longwood, Fla., Jan. 4, 2020 Rosellen M. (Straka) Lindblade, McPherson, May 24, 2020 Charline A. (Mott) McClellan, Kansas City, Mo., April 24, 2020 Dr. Harold J. Sauder, Independence, March 28, 2020 Marland Smith, Emporia, March 12, 2020 Harold L. Stubby, Burlington, Jan. 2, 2020 Clyde Thogmartin, Emporia, March 10, 2020 Edwin L. "Bud" VanSickle, Wichita, March 29, 2020 Maryann (Haffner) VanSickle, Wichita, Feb. 9, 2020 Robert G. "Bob" Woodruff, Minneapolis, Nov. 23, 2018

2010

Audra M. Rush (MS 19), Erie, March 15, 2020

FRIENDS

Everett J. Euler, Jr., Wathena, May 13, 2020 R.D. Hubbard, Palm Desert, Calif., April 29, 2020 Dr. Kathryn M. Kelm, Lenexa, Oct. 12, 2019 Ruth I. (Birk) Magathan, Emporia, May 23, 2020 Dr. J. Jack Melhorn, Wichita, May 19, 2020 Vern R. Nelson, Lake Geneva, Wis., March 25, 2020 Dr. John D. Ransom, Wichita, March 26, 2020 Robert K. "Bobby" Spain, Strong City, April 11, 2020 Dr. Richard L. "Dick" Watson, Emporia, July 7, 2019 Correction: We made a mistake!

In our last issue, we listed Dr. Genevieve R. “Genny” (Rummel) Cramer (BS 60, MS 66) in our In Memoriam section, much to Dr. Cramer’s dismay! We got it wrong. The wonderful news is that Dr. Genny Cramer is alive and well. She and her husband (whom she met here at ESU) are enjoying their retirement. Dr. Cramer, our sincere apologies to you, and for all who know Genny, we apologize for causing confusion and concern.

Nominate A HORNET Dr. Brandon W. McCray (BME 91), Kansas City, April 19, 2020 Rev. Dr. Brandon McCray’s life was cut tragically short at the age of 52 by COVID-19. We mourn the loss of this talented musician, reverend educator and alumnus. A talented saxophonist, in his time at ESU he was a member of the Marching Band and Jazz Band. In 1989, he performed at the University of Notre Dame Jazz Festival where he was recognized for his exemplary performance as a soloist for his rendition of Oliver Nelson’s “Black, Brown and Beautiful”. Visit https://tinyurl.com/ yxu7e33n to hear the recording. This performance was his first professional recording. He would go on to make many gospel recordings, instruct students in music, deliver spiritual guidance and provide strength, wisdom and kind understanding to all who knew him.

Searching for—and recognizing—the best. You know them. Those brilliant people who make everything they touch turn into Hornet Nation gold. In fact, maybe you’re one of them. Now is the time to tell us about those people and give them the recognition they deserve.

Honor them with a nomination for an Emporia State award or board position. Or, put your name in the hat for consideration.

Nomination Deadlines & Links Distinguished Alumni

November 1 emporia.edu/distinguishednomination

Alumni Association Board of Directors November 1 emporia.edu/boardnomination

Hornet Heritage Award

December 1 emporia.edu/heritagenomination

University Service Citation

December 1 emporia.edu/servicenomination

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

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