Pillars - Fall 2023 by Kentucky Wesleyan College

Fall 2023

The Magazine of Kentucky Wesleyan College

Celebrating Our GOLD Alumni Graduates of the Last Decade

President's Perspective Dear Kentucky Wesleyan Family, The fall semester is winding down; weeks of discovery through classes, concerts, athletic competitions and campus activities appealing to varying interests. As Christmas trees and wreaths go up, our students are writing papers and preparing for final exams. They look forward to enjoying the holidays at home with family and friends while anticipating the beginning of the spring semester, and for our seniors, Commencement in May! Perhaps these words evoke your memories of campus life and the rhythm of the seasons in preparation for life beyond the routine and excitement of college days. With the perspective of the years, I am tremendously grateful for my undergraduate education at Northern State University in South Dakota. My experiences as a first-generation student (one of six children raised by a single mother) changed the trajectory of my life, and loyal alumni and friends of the university gave me the opportunity for an education through their generous gifts. Although I was unknown to them, they gave to the university with confidence in the ability of the institution to change lives. The KWC family is a strong and loyal one; I am grateful In the same way, our generous investors make differences

for the gifts of your resources, time and talents to

in countless lives here at KWC. When you support

our beloved College. Please plan a visit in 2024 and

a chemistry or biology major who later becomes a

experience the vibrant environment you believe in and

physician, you also support the countless patients they

support.

treat over the years. When you support an education major who becomes a teacher, you, in turn, support

Sincerely,

countless students they impact in the classroom over the decades of their career. The ripple effect of your gifts is immeasurable. Enjoy reading about examples of that effect in this issue of Pillars. 2

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Thomas M. Mitzel, Ph.D. President

Contents

SECTIONS Commencement

Homecoming

Trustees

Alumni Scrapbook

Class Notes

In Memoriam

Why We Give

1858 Society

COVER STORY

Celebrating Our GOLD Alumni with Katherine Rutherman

ON THE COVER Kerison Bailey '25, Will Curtis '25 and Nevaeh Branch '26 with Wesley N. Panther at the new archway, the gift of the Class of 2023.

FEATURES

10 12 22

A Winning Couple By Roy Pickerill '75

Wesleyan's Got the Beat on the Music Industry with a New Major

By Molly Gross

What calls us back: A story of escape and return to Liberia By Precious Buxton '09

Three pillars guide the KWC community. The three columns in Hocker-Hall Grove from the administration building at the Winchester campus remind us of our tradition-rich heritage. The Three Pillars, established by the KWC community, provide strategies for a strong future: l

Academic innovation and investment

Building for the future

A commitment to affordability and excellence

We hope this issue of Pillars reminds readers of our proud history as we celebrate today and work together to build a strong future.

Celebrating Our GOLD Alumni GRADUATES OF THE LAST DECADE With Katherine Rutherman

Almost 8,000 KWC alumni share The Wesleyan Way every day in their communities across the United States and 14 countries. They are teachers, ministers, attorneys, CPAs, physicians, dentists and entrepreneurs. They are loving parents, good neighbors, philanthropic leaders and informed voters. They make a difference in countless ways in countless towns and cities. They range in age from their 20s to their 90s, and they share something special; the foundations of their lives and careers were laid at KWC, where they were stretched, encouraged, challenged and nurtured. In this issue of Pillars, we highlight several graduates of the last decade (GOLD alumni). They are already making their marks, significant ones, on our world, and they are doing so with confidence and determination, thanks to their hard work and the excellent preparation they received at KWC. There are many more just like them. We are pleased to honor and celebrate these GOLD alumni. As we do so, we also offer our deep gratitude to alumni and friends of the College who, though spread throughout the world, know the value of a Kentucky Wesleyan education and help ensure a strong future for the College they love through their generosity. These investors made the KWC experience possible for our GOLD alumni. It is The Wesleyan Way.

DR. JEANETTE (J.) LANOIRE '13 n

Major Chemistry with emphasis in biochemistry.

Education after KWC

Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Bellarmine University; completed neurological residency in 2018.

Current work

Stroke physical therapist at Cressman Neurological Rehabilitation, adjunct faculty at Bellarmine University, mentor in Bellarmine University and Norton Neurological residency. Board certified specialist in neurologic physical therapy. 2023 recipient of the Dennis Lesch Award for Excellence in Clinical Education. 4

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Your experience at KWC

The College connected me to opportunities in healthcare which ultimately brought me to physical therapy, challenged me to develop strong study habits and time management skills which helped me be successful in my doctoral program, and sparked my passion for teaching through opportunities I received as a teaching assistant and tutor. Playing soccer also gave me insight in how to manage my time and helped me develop leadership skills and my ability to work as part of a team.

KWC mentors

The most influential person was Dr. R. Scot Payne. He sparked my passion for anatomy, research and teaching and led me to where I am today. I still reflect on my time with him and how he has shaped me into the type of professor I am today. I have always admired how kind he is and how he genuinely cares for the well-being of his students.

Fun memories of KWC

Social life activities in the Quad, dance study breaks in Yu Hak Hahn, seeing the purple fountain, slip-n-slide in the Quad and seeing my friends no matter where I was on campus.

Involvement/activities at KWC

Soccer, chemistry tutor, teaching assistant for anatomy labs after graduation.

Feature Story n

Favorite place on campus

Yu Hak Hahn Center for the Sciences; I spent most of my time here studying with my friends and laughing at the cheesiest science jokes. I found my true passions in this building.

I f you could go back to your college days, what is something you would do?

Slip-n-slide in Quad with the largest tarp I have ever encountered, friendly soccer games, coffee in Winchester–all great memories.

Family Married Alyssa Elliott in October 2023.

Hobbies/interests

Participate in wellness retreats for the neurologic population, Drums Alive! instructor and weekly Drums Alive! class for individuals with Parkinson's disease, hiking, attending music events, spending time with my family/friends and traveling. I try to visit Red River Gorge frequently to enjoy nature, hike and slow down from my busy life.

hat has been most surprising W about adulting after KWC? No one calls you if you oversleep!

PATRICK '20 AND ERIN (WILSON) QUIRE '19 n

Major Patrick: Double major in political science and history. Erin: Communications/advertising and public relations.

Education after KWC Patrick: University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law.

Current work

Patrick: I work for Alex R. White, PLLC, a personal injury law firm in Louisville, Ky. I recently learned I passed the bar exam and am an associate attorney at the firm. Erin: Advancement associate at Make-A-Wish Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana.

Career history

Patrick: I began working at Alex R. White, PLLC, as a law clerk following my first year in law school in spring 2021 and have worked there ever since. During my final year of law school, I worked as a student attorney for the Ackerson Law Clinic at UofL. The Clinic allows law students the unique opportunity of gaining experience in the courtroom at emergency protective order hearings. I was able to provide pro bono representation to over ten survivors of domestic violence in Jefferson County in my time at the Clinic.

Erin: I worked as a TV news reporter upon graduating from KWC. I spent two years in Dothan, Ala., at WTVY before returning to my hometown to work another two years at Spectrum News in Louisville.

Your experience at KWC

Patrick: I made lifelong friends and met my wife at KWC. I didn't realize how great it was to go to a school where you know everyone and get to build lasting relationships until after I graduated.

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Feature Story KWC gave me opportunities to be a leader and get involved. I learned time management skills through balancing class work, sports and involvement in other organizations on campus. I loved my time at KWC. I'll always remember my professors, everyone in the caf, my coaches and the other students. I think about my time at KWC often and will carry those memories and lessons learned with me forever.

KWC mentors

Patrick: Drs. Eric Schmidt (political science) and Mason Horrell (history) taught many of my classes and helped advise me as I started to study for the LSAT to get into law school. Dr. Schmidt was instrumental in helping me prepare for law school and how to succeed once I got there.

Fun memories of KWC

Erin: Cross country and track.

Erin: Pancake day in the caf.

Basil: Business. Taylor: Accounting.

Current work Basil: Relationship banker, Truist Bank.

Taylor: Manager/director of governmental audit services, Riney Hancock CPAs.

Career history Basil: Champion Ford 2016-2022, Truist 2023-present.

Taylor: Interned at Riney Hancock for two years while at KWC (tax season 2013 and 2014) and began working at the firm full time in Sept of 2014.

Your experience at KWC

Basil: KWC staff and administrators were so helpful in dealing with my challenges of being an international student, including assisting in the process for getting my work VISA after graduation. 6

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Family We were married in September.

Erin: Movie marathons on the way to and from track meets, Sigma Phi Epsilon's formals with Patrick, Friday after 5 with friends, WESPY's (women's cross country won highest GPA my senior year) and spending countless hours running and hanging with teammates and long-time friends!

Major

I f you could go back to your college days, what is something you would like to do?

Patrick: I'd like to run down Frederica to the river with the cross-country team, get lunch in the caf and spend the rest of the day on campus with my friends.

Involvement/activities at KWC

Patrick: Cross country and track, Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity (president), Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Stanley Reed Political Science and Pre-Law Club.

Patrick: Weekly Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter meetings, brunches in the cafeteria, runs to Reid's Orchard to get apple slushies during cross-country practice and attending basketball games at the Sportscenter with friends.

BASIL '16 AND TAYLOR (EDGE) DEVEAUX '14

Favorite place on campus

Patrick: Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter room where I spent a lot of my free time. It was the hangout for fraternity members.

Hobbies/Interests We both enjoy running and watching sports.

Favorite vacation spot The beach; there is no better place to relax and de-stress.

hat has been most surprising W about adulting after KWC?

Patrick: How busy I am. I thought juggling school, running and extracurriculars would be the busiest I could ever be!

Taylor: I liked the smaller campus atmosphere. I started at a large university and hated feeling like just another student. At KWC, every interaction is much more intimate. Professors, staff and administrators actually care about students as individuals and their journeys to success. One of the best things for me was KWC's interest in keeping talent in Owensboro. I feel like the connection to Owensboro and reputation the College has for developing the future workforce opens a lot of doors for job opportunities within the local community for students.

KWC mentors

Basil: Former President Bart Darrell. We met when I was on campus for my college visit, and he played a big role in me attending KWC. He is still a mentor to me today. Taylor: Professor Raju Chenna (accounting) and Dr. Sally Asefa (economics) were both instrumental in my success. Mr. Chenna was very helpful in guiding me to my career at Riney Hancock. Dr. Asefa made me feel at home at KWC. I arrived as a sophomore and was not entirely sure which path I wanted to take. She helped guide me through that process.

Involvement/activities at KWC Basil: Basketball.

Taylor: Tutor, Phi Beta Lambda vice president, Peak Accounting Team captain.

Favorite place on campus

Basil: Though not technically on campus, the Sportscenter – Most of my favorite memories at KWC involve basketball.

If you could go back to your college days, what is something you would do? Basil: Basketball game days with my team.

Family

We met through mutual friends at a Mexican restaurant in 2014. Baz's favorite story about our first few times hanging out is meeting the turtle Taylor was pet sitting for a friend. Honestly, we are unsure what we would even count as a first date because once we met, we just never stopped hanging out! We would frequent Applebee's for the all-you-can-eat boneless wings and spent most of our time studying. We have one daughter, Lilah, who is 6, and a kindergartener at the K3 Owensboro Catholic campus; a son, Basil III ("Rome") who is 2; and a student from Baz's home country (The Bahamas), Solly, who lives with us and is a sophomore at Catholic High. He quickly became an integral part of our family!

Hobbies/interests Family time, and for Basil–playing basketball!

Fun memories of KWC

Basil: Winning the G-MAC basketball championship in 2016 and playing in the NCAA tournament.

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Favorite vacation spot

Taylor: Nassau! Baz's whole family is there, so getting to see them is awesome.

hat has been most surprising W about adulting after KWC?

Basil: How fast everything happens. It seems like yesterday I was playing basketball at KWC, then I graduated and basically started all over again in a new phase of life; finding a job, raising a family, etc. Taylor: Being responsible for figuring out what is for dinner every night!

KATHRYN (DISHION) GRAHAM '15 n

Major Criminal justice and psychology.

Education after KWC Master of science, Grand Canyon University.

Current work Federal Bureau of Investigation, special agent.

Career history

2016-2020: Madisonville Police Department (officer and detective) 2020-2021: Indiana Department of Revenue (investigator) 2021-present: FBI

How did KWC prepare you for your life and career?

KWC gave me the confidence to explore new things and go outside my comfort zone. The support I received in

Fall 2023

Feature Story overcoming those challenges (such as public speaking and mock interviews) prepared me for my life and career.

Favorite place on campus

The Quad and various events/parties, especially the foam party and movie nights and "quad diving" when there was a crazy amount of rain!

My mother, Tammy (Tripp) Dishion '86, and father, Steve Dishion '87, are KWC graduates.

Family

Husband, James Graham, is currently serving in the Indiana

familiarity of many different subjects; in one class I may have been learning chemical reactions behind the food that we eat everyday while in another I would learn about accounting principles and how to interreact with stakeholders. This helped prepare me for whatever life may throw at me.

Major Business administration.

Education after KWC

Currently pursuing a master of environmental management at Duke University.

Career history

Worked as a billing analyst for Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline in Owensboro.

Family I'm the middle child with an older sister and younger brother.

Hobbies/interests

I'm a huge cinephile, especially horror movies, and I play tennis recreationally.

Favorite vacation place Somewhere the sun always shines, like Anaheim, Calif.

Your experience at KWC

It took a lot of adjusting to move from Las Vegas to Owensboro, but it brought unprecedented growth. I was challenged to go out and meet new people along with finding out what my core values are and enabling me to be the change I want to see in the world.

KWC mentor Professor Chelsea Dowell (economics).

ow did KWC prepare you for H your life and career?

I was consistently challenged, and my courses provoked thought. A liberal arts education allowed me to acquire a 8

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hat has been most surprising W about adulting after KWC?

Honestly, I was surprisingly prepared for adult life. KWC gave me the tools and skills to become a better friend, leader and overall member of society. The professors and staff treated me as an adult, as an equal, and I think that prepared me to apply for professional jobs post KWC and be successful in those roles.

VINCIENT JAMES WHATLEY JR. '22 n

Hobbies/interests Local soccer and basketball leagues.

Involvement/activities at KWC

Women's soccer, Kappa Delta Sorority, Student Government Association.

Army National Guard and deployed to Africa.

I would like to say thank you to everyone at KWC who helped shape who I am today and believed in my aspirations.

Fun memories of KWC

Every year I looked forward to the Campus Ministries Builda-Bed event and K-Dub Idol!

Involvement/activities at KWC

I was the Stories intern for Campus Ministries, supplemental instructor for some economics courses, a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon and worked in the Student Success Center.

Favorite place on campus

Smith Lounge because it always provided the perfect ambience to either complete course work or relax after a long day. I was also very likely to run into so many people there, which I enjoyed.

n I f you could go back to your college days, what is one thing you would do? I would hang out with my friends one last time.

n W hat has been most surprising about adulting after KWC? Grocery shopping and cooking for myself! I can no longer just go to the caf or the grill for a meal after a busy day.

n W ho is someone you would like to meet? I would love to have dinner with Keanu Reeves, and I would probably ask him how he got into the mindset to play Neo in "The Matrix."

AUSTIN MINTON '22 n

Feature Story

Major

aspire to work in pharmaceuticals, particularly drug discovery.

Biology and chemistry.

Education after KWC

Currently in doctoral program at University of Kentucky College of Medicine.

Current work Graduate research assistant.

I am in the Campbell Muscle Lab, and our research is focused on heart failure. Our mission is to bridge the scientific gaps between molecular, cellular and organ-level function. A unique thing about our lab is that we have a cardiac biobank, which contains greater than 10,000 samples from approximately 400 organ donors and patients. My current project involves genotyping samples within the biobank utilizing next-generation sequencing technology. I intend to take this data and further characterize the mechanical and biochemical characteristics of those found to have titintruncating variants (TTNtv). This genetic variant has been found to be the most abundant among patients diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Career history

Person-centered specialist at Wendell Foster from 2018-2020; served as a peer tutor (genetics) and supplemental instructor (multiple biology courses) at KWC from 2020-2022.

Hobbies/interests

Spending time with my fiancée (Kerri Stewart '22) and puppy (Max) and watching sports.

Favorite vacation place Gulf Shores, Ala.

Your experience at KWC

My decision to attend KWC was somewhat last minute, as I decided a couple weeks prior to graduating from high school. I did not know what to expect. I began with my aspirations locked on medicine. I wanted to become a practicing doctor and pursued the pre-medicine track. After experiences as a directed student researcher and opportunities presented to me in various student organizations/extracurriculars, I realized that I hold a deep appreciation for scientific discovery. This is when I made the decision to pursue a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences. Following completion of my doctoral studies, I

KWC mentors

Dr. Rachel Pritchard (research mentor), Drs. Darlene Ingram and Cindy Wolfe (academic advisors) and Dr. Janella Moy (Honors Program mentor).

How did KWC prepare you for your life and career?

I was able to grasp a deep understanding of research as a directed student researcher at KWC for three years. I completed a few research projects, the primary one being the Tiny Earth Project. In this endeavor, I examined antibiotic production in bacterial isolates from soil samples across Western Kentucky. I presented findings at numerous conferences/symposiums, which led to many awards. I gained an appreciation for leadership in the positions I held in student organizations/extracurriculars. The most impactful of those was Sigma Phi Epsilon, which exposed me to countless leadership academies, providing numerous networking opportunities that aided in my application and subsequent acceptance into a doctoral program. The academic and volunteer service standard held for members of this organization kept me driven in coursework and engagement with the Owensboro community. Moreover, the relationships I fostered within the group of brothers remains strong, and I envision they will remain this way for many years.

Fun memories of KWC

Greek Week, sporting events, service activities, Greek Recruitment Week, K-Dub Idol. While at KWC, I began dating my fiancée, Kerri Stewart '22. We were engaged in May 2023, and she is continuing her education as well.

Involvement/activities at KWC

Member of Sigma Phi Epsilon (president and chaplain), Student Government Association (senior commuter senator, chair of Commuter Committee), Every Life Matters (president), Pre-Professional Society (president twice) and several other organizations.

Favorite place on campus

Sigma Phi Epsilon chapter room in Deacon Hall; my most effective study area with windows overlooking the Quad, a great view regardless of the weather or season.

I f you could go back to your college days, what is one thing you would do?

I would walk around campus and cherish what it has to offer and prepare for Greek Week events—fun memories.

n What has been most surprising about adulting after KWC? I thought traffic in Owensboro was bad but driving around in Lexington humbled me quickly! Fall 2023

A Winning Couple DYNAMIC DUO MAKES HISTORY ON THE COURT

Mountain climbing is a Nieman tradition, this time with Mount Hood in the background in 2006.

By Roy Pickerill '75 Special Assistant for College Relations and Sports Information Director Emeritus

The phrase "Dynamic Duo" refers to two people who each have unique traits that create positive or beneficial results when they work together.

to be part of building the women's program to be nationally competitive as well." Their time as assistants lasted only 10 months before

No one fits this description better than KWC co-head basketball coaches Caleb and Nicole Nieman. They are the only NCAA husband-wife coaching team in all of Divisions I, II or III basketball.

their promotion in April 2010 to become the first co-head

"We were hungry to coach basketball at the college level so once we finished up our graduate degrees at Michigan State, we applied for positions all over the country," said Nicole Nieman.

wealth of experience to this first-class school and basketball program." The Niemans credit their success to a The Niemans with daughter Lily

treating people well regardless of athletes who want to do the same."

Caleb graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2001 with a bachelor's degree in physical education. Nicole graduated from

"If the people within our program stay consistent with this [philosophy] through the ups and downs of athletics, things usually find a way of working out. Our faith has

with a bachelor's degree in

allowed us to gain perspective on

learning disabilities.

the challenging times to help us learn and grow throughout our journey

Both received their master's Michigan State University.

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philosophy of "doing your very best, circumstances and recruiting student-

degrees in kinesiology from 10

said, "We realize this is a unique our strengths together, we offer a

Aquinas College in 2002

"Ultimately we were drawn to Kentucky Wesleyan because of their history of unprecedented success with the men's program. We wanted

On their promotion, the Niemans situation. We believe that [in] putting

The Neimans arrived from Michigan in June 2009 to become KWC assistants to former Head Coach Ron Williams. They previously spent six years serving as co-head coaches in high school and had two years of college experience at Division III powerhouse Calvin College.

coaches in any sport in KWC history.

They have one daughter, Lily.

here."

The constant key to success in college coaching lies in recruiting.

Nicole at NCAA tourney shootaround

A remarkable coaching legacy On the court •

All-time winningest coaches in Kentucky Wesleyan women's basketball history in both total wins (258) and winning percentage (70%)

•

Five NCAA Tournament appearances and the longest coaching tenure in program history (13 years)

•

An average of at least 20 wins per year at KWC

•

A 17-10 record in first season (2010-2011) with KWC women's basketball's first trip to the NCAA Tournament

•

Best season record of 28-3 in 2019-20

•

Only active NCAA Division II women's basketball coaches to secure 13 consecutive winning seasons with the same institution

•

First G-MAC tournament championship in KWC history

•

G-MAC title game in seven of 13 seasons

•

In the postseason every year

•

All four-year players have experienced an NCAA Tournament game, a conference title game or both

•

One All-American and 12 All-G-MAC selections

•

Eight finishes in NCAA's top five statistical categories

"We do our best to identify student-athletes who will fit into our style of play and have the potential to thrive in a fast pace of play with a skill set that can translate to multiple positions on the floor," said Caleb Nieman. "We then make sure these same student-athletes treat their teammates, coaches, opponents and professors with ultimate respect. We watch the way they communicate on and off the court. Their body language is usually a pretty good indicator of whether they will be a good fit here." The Niemans have had opportunities to go to other universities and colleges. "We've had so many thrilling and enjoyable moments with some unbelievable players, coaches, professors and administrators," they said. "Working here allows us to keep writing the story of women's basketball at Kentucky Wesleyan. It's been a journey we could have never imagined. We've always opted on wanting to see what the next page or chapter holds, rather than closing the book."

In the classroom •

62 Academic All-G-MAC honorees

•

2021 Women's Basketball Coaches Association Top 25 Academic Team

•

2017 Highest Team GPA at Kentucky Wesleyan

•

Seven inductees into The Order of Oak and Ivy (most prestigious honor given to a KWC student, only six given annually)

•

Team GPA has exceeded a 3.0 every season

Caleb at Trevecca

Fall 2023

Wesleyan's Got the Beat on the Music Industry with a New Major By Molly Gross, Assistant Professor of English

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Professors Agnes Church, Lisa Clark D.M.A.and Andrew Bolin, Ph.D.

Taylor Swift's Eras Tour is projected to make 2.2 billion dollars in North American ticket sales and hasn't even hit the other four continents yet. What many "Swifties" may not realize is that despite often singing alone at her painted piano, Taylor – like Beyoncé and the Rolling Stones - could not do what she does without hundreds of music industry professionals behind the scenes. Concerts that bring people together are arguably more appealing than ever in our post-pandemic world. At the same time, industries are embracing isolationinduced advancements in digital technology. In other words, it is a very exciting time in the music industry.

Tuning In (Meeting a Need) "Gone are the days of print music and physical products (although vinyl is making a resurgence in some mainstream markets), so we must adapt to how people are getting their products," said Dr. Patrick Stuckemeyer, assistant professor of music and director of bands. "Post-pandemic there has been a trend toward digital consumption of music, either through streaming services or online radio, [and] new talent can share their art through Apple Music, Spotify, SoundCloud, or YouTube," agreed Dr. Lisa Clark, KWC's music program coordinator. "But that does not guarantee success or longevity," she added. "Artists need to understand digital marketing, media and how to analyze data to optimize performance." In order to help its musically-minded students meet the needs of the market, Kentucky Wesleyan's programs in music, business and communication have collaborated to form a new bachelor of arts in music industry degree, beginning in fall 2023. As a fourth option to our current degrees of bachelor of arts in music, bachelor of music in music performance, and bachelor of music in music education, students can now choose career paths carved in a digital age. "Understanding that music is more than the final product we hear through our headphones or laptops is crucial. There are so many steps between an idea and the end goal— that's where the interdisciplinary approach will benefit our students the most. We are setting [them] up to be fluent

in the language of music, become savvy with digital media and marketing strategies, and develop business acumen so they can be competitive in an ever-shifting industry," said Dr. Clark.

Shuffle Play (Interdisciplinary Coursework) Music industry majors will take courses in business, accounting, business law, mass communications, public speaking, advertising, music theory and audio production, to name a few. Dr. Stuckemeyer sees the approach as "threepronged," where students can explore careers in music business (retail, licensing, etc.), music entrepreneurship, (agency, advertising, box office work, etc.), and music technology (recording, streaming services, radio/TV/film). "Having this degree will help students stay at the front of the process and ready for anything," said Dr. Stuckemeyer. Dr. Andrew Bolin, assistant professor of communication arts and Fine Arts and Humanities Division chair, explained that "By integrating business and communication arts, students will further explore how media entities use ratings, data tracking and analytics to market and disseminate media to consumers."

Not Just Gigging (Available Careers) In addition to coursework, "students will be required to complete a total of six hours of internship/externship for credit," explained Dr. Bolin. "As with other majors that require internships, this is designed to give students realworld experience in the field that provides opportunities to utilize their skills in a real-time setting [or] career opportunities." These opportunities "exist within many realms," said Dr. Clark, such as "digital platforms, label services, sales, artist management, digital/social media marketing and production." Students could also work with "talent management, a music retailer, local music venue or radio station," she said. Dr. Clark also mentioned residential programs nearby that would provide our students with technical experience, such as the Recording Workshop in Chillicothe, Ohio.

"Having this degree will help students stay at the front of the process and ready for anything." DR. PATRICK STUCKEMEYER Assistant professor of music and director of bands

"Recent music bachelor of arts graduate Izak Atherton '20 is now an educational specialist at H & H Music in Evansville, Ind., working with music salesmen, product fulfillment specialists and repair technicians," commented Dr.

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Stuckemeyer. This major will offer even better support for students like Atherton entering these types of careers. The idea is there are career options for every type of music lover. "A student who is interested in the creation of music or recording is a natural fit for communication courses which look at media production," said Dr. Bolin, while "a student who has a passion for music and maybe teaching private lessons and wants to be a music retailer or teacher [will gain] knowledge on entrepreneurship and what it takes to create and sustain a business." Dr. Bolin also pointed out that "religious organizations have become live-production houses with worship services using multi-camera video along with live-audio of bands and choirs." These types of jobs are ideal for students with a music industry degree.

"Success at the highest levels requires cutting-edge technical expertise along with an entrepreneurial mindset." DR. JAMES COUSINS Provost

Plugged In (Regional Benefits) Geography is also a bonus, with KWC so close to Nashville, Indianapolis, St. Louis and Louisville, creating "access for students to explore major corporations but also [providing] many other opportunities for local or small-event scenarios," said Dr. Bolin. Owensboro's distance to "fast-paced music industry settings such as music producing, publishing, and even liveevent technical support" offers more choices for students, he added, and "by working with a KWC faculty member, students will be able to focus their internship hours to industry-specific career aspirations" not too far away. Dr. Clark also loves our location. "With our proximity to so many hubs of musical activity and a burgeoning music scene right here in Owensboro, I am excited at the prospect of growth for our music industry major," she said.

On Repeat (Sustainability) This new major is just another reflection of the College's sustainability, much as the recent addition of animation courses to the graphic design program was another way to help students meet the competition of an ever-changing workforce.

"The music industry is more competitive than ever," said Provost Dr. James Cousins. "Success at the highest levels requires cutting-edge technical expertise along with an entrepreneurial mindset. Our program hones that disposition while preparing students with broadly based, but interdependent, skills that will set them apart and set them up for prosperous careers." Agnes Church, assistant professor of accounting and business, has been integral in deciding which business courses would best serve our music students. "I'm excited about the interdisciplinary nature of this major and students who are interested in music and/or business having another option to explore," she said. For every Taylor Swift who comes and goes from the spotlight, there will always be dozens of agents, musical directors, marketing managers, sound engineers and concert coordinators in demand, not to mention musicians. We can't wait for some of these to be KWC alumni someday . . . We just ask that they stay in touch in case they can get us tickets.

For more information about Kentucky Wesleyan College's music industry degree and Music Program, go to kwc.edu/music. 14

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Congratulations to the Class of 2023

With Dr. Mitzel, from left to right: John Thomas Hayden, David Florence, Aliyah Berry and Emery Crume

Valedictorian Jenna Burns addressed her classmates.

One Hundred and Fifty-Fifth Annual Commencement May 6, 2023 Owensboro Christian Church President Thomas Mitzel

"What difference will this day and the time you have spent at Kentucky Wesleyan College make in your community, our nation and our world? It is my deepest hope that you have made this journey leaning toward practicing a spirit of availability. "How you choose to see your purpose, your destiny in this world will have major implications not only for your future, but for the future of our life together on this planet. Keep practicing the spirit of availability." Commencement speaker Bishop Leonard Fairley of the Kentucky Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church congratulated and challenged the graduates. He was the recipient of an honorary doctor of divinity.

BISHOP FAIRLEY

Fall 2023

A Taste of the Arts We kicked off the Homecoming and Family Weekend presented by Owensboro Health with the Second Annual A Taste of the Arts event. Guests who snagged tickets to the sold-out event enjoyed a powerful art show, delicious food and drink and bite-sized performances from KWC theatre, band and choir. The evening culminated in honoring our 2023 Outstanding Alumnus of the Arts, K.O. Lewis '08.

K E N T U C K Y W E S L E YA N C O L L E G E PRESENTED BY

Jericho and Rev. Dr. Jay Smith '85 enjoy delicious small bites provided during the art show hour.

Provost Dr. James Cousins with 2023 Outstanding Alumnus of the Arts K.O. Lewis '08

Defensive back Najai Watson '27 gets the crowd hype.

Panther Football vs. Ohio Dominican Panther football defeated Ohio Dominican 13-10 at the Homecoming 2023 game, a second straight Homecoming win for the Panthers.

Professor Dennis Jewett leads the choir with solos by Wesleyan Singer alumnae Ginny Weant '14 and Jonna Capone '14.

Panther Pride 5k

Marshall Sanders '11, Tina Forrest '04 and other participants begin the race on College Drive.

Pillars

The Second Annual Panther Pride 5k presented by Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline was a tremendous success with nearly 90 walkers and runners who completed the windy route which led participants through Panther Park, Foster Field and the Quad, past our new Wesley N. Panther statue and a marathon-like finish in Steele Stadium.

Overall winner Chase Andrews '21 crosses the finish line in Steele Stadium.

Alumni Hall of Fame and Awards Celebration

Homecoming 2023

We recognized nine honorees for their distinguished service to their communities and our College at the 2023 Alumni Hall of Fame and Awards Celebration. Their contributions to our world reflect their commitment to The Wesleyan Way.

Members of the Class of 1973 and Golden Jubilee Club Left to right: Mike Tichenor '73, Russ Wilkey '73, Peggie (Pratt) Stewart '73, Kathy Sherman '73, Beth (Robinson) Ronk '73, David Kelly '73, Patrick Corkran '73, John Brennan '73 and Lydie (Schmitt) Boone '73.

President Mitzel, 2023 Alumni Achievement awardee Dr. Gwendolyn (Ford) Lynch '86 and Doug Hoyt '84, president of the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Dallas Thornton '68

2023 Alumni Awards Outstanding Alumnus Lilburn "Ray" Harper '85

Alumni Achievement Award Dr. Gwendolyn (Ford) Lynch '86

Gus E. Paris Distinguished Service Award Betty Adams

Honorary Alumna Kathy Rutherman

Outstanding Young Graduate Award

Honorary Alumnus

Adrian Christopher '13

Keith Sharber

Roy Pickerill '75 Alumni Service Award

Alumni Board Director Emeritus Award

Scott Kramer '87

Sam Taylor '97

Counterclockwise beginning at far left: George Tinsley '69, Mike Tichenor '73, 2023 Alumni Hall of Fame inductee Dallas Thornton '69, Diane Thornton, Tommy Hobgood '69, Charlie Taylor, Alberta Taylor and Rodger Cordell '67.

We also inducted our classes of 1998 and 1973 into the Silver and Golden Jubilee clubs.

Scan to view Homecoming & Family Weekend photos, live streams & 2023 Alumni Hall of Fame, Alumni Awards and Athletic Hall of Fame honorees!

Joey Kramer '13, Penny (Mills) '86 and 2023 Roy Pickerill Alumni Service Awardee Scott Kramer '87, future Panther Carly Crisp, Paige (Kramer) '15 and Zach Crisp.

Fall 2023

Athletic Hall of Fame Brunch

Homecoming 2023

We recognized four honorees for their athletic careers as student-athletes during the 2023 Athletic Hall of Fame Brunch.

The Bash Year Three of the popular Bash returned, and the epic Front Lawn party continues to grow. The event was open to all participating in Homecoming, Fall Family Weekend and the broader Owensboro community. Guests enjoyed live music, food trucks, inflatables, bumper cars, Panther reunions and the special moments of reuniting with old friends.

Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2023 Stacey (Baxter) Bischoff '97 – Volleyball Brenda (Britt) Cason '84 – Basketball Jamie Duvall '90 – Soccer Jordan White '12 – Baseball The event also celebrated the 40th anniversary of Panther football's modern era. Nearly 30 members from the inaugural team reunited to celebrate the evolution of the program. They received commemorative challenge coins.

Athletic Hall of Fame inductee Jordan White '12 and Panther baseball Head Coach Todd Lillpop '91

Panther basketball alumnae gather around Sports Information Director Emeritus Roy Pickerill '75, and we are sure some stats were threatened with removal. (Left to right: Emma Johnson '22, Jill Jones '17, Dr. Sydney (Morabito) Roby '17, Codie Drake '18, Shayla (Wright) Demmig '19, Addie Reimbold '18, Jasmine Shelt '20).

Members of the 1983 Panther football team reunite.

Pillars Lecture Wesley N. Panther takes a spin on the bumper cars.

Local band Soul N The Pocket was a crowd pleaser!

Warren Byerly '61 greets Deidra Frazier '14 and Summer (Crick) Aldridge '14 at the Alumni Welcome Tent.

President Tom and Rhonda Mitzel involve their pups in the fun.

Pillars

The Second Annual Pillars Lecture Series celebrated academic excellence with a packed house of students and alumni, who enjoyed TED Talk-inspired lectures by Dr. W.L. Magnuson, Jeff Jones and George Tinsley '69.

George Tinsley '69 inspires with his lecture, "Turning Obstacles into Opportunities."

The KWC community is pleased to welcome our newest trustees, who joined the board in 2023.

Rev. Mark Dickinson '89 Utica, Ky. Senior Pastor Settle Memorial United Methodist Church Fred Wright '80 and Dr. Thomas Mitzel

Board of Trustees

Mark Marsh Owensboro, Ky. President and CEO Owensboro Health

Donna (Mattson) Meador '84 Shelbyville, Ky.

Sherry (Miller) Feldpausch '83 served as chair of the Board of Trustees from June 2020-May 2023. The KWC community is deeply grateful for her commitment and dedication to her alma mater. She is a trust principal at The Glenview Trust Company in Louisville, Ky. Fred Wright '80 became chair of the Board of Trustees on June 1, 2023. He earned a bachelor of science in chemistry from KWC and a master of science in chemistry from Butler University. He was employed at Eli Lilly and Company for 35 years, most of that time in Indianapolis. He worked as an organic chemist and holds three patents. He worked in human resources his last 25 years at Lilly, including one and a half years at Kinsale, Ireland, with a Lilly manufacturing site. He gives the Wesleyan faculty credit for guiding him on the right path and says, "Wesleyan connections last a lifetime."

Human Resources (Chief Healthy at Work Officer) Pegasus Industries and Packaging Retired registered nurse

Fall 2023

Alumni Scrapbook Visit kwc.edu/alumnievents for upcoming opportunities to connect with Wesleyan and register, when applicable.

The Kentucky Wesleyan Alumni Association hosts an average of 40 events a year throughout the Owensboro region, the Commonwealth and the nation to connect alumni and friends with the College and one another. We have enjoyed seeing many of you this year and appreciate your participation.

Burgers & Brews with the President Our Graduates of the Last Decade (GOLD Alumni) had a great time at the inaugural Burgers & Brews at the President's Home in August! Dr. Mitzel opened his home to members of the Classes of 2013-2023 and grilled for them, too.

President Mitzel proudly displayed his El Presidente grill apron.

Yoselin Herrera Uribe '24, Hunter Mathews '23 and Vincient Whatley '22 cleaned and reorganized the audio/visual equipment in the Jack T. Wells '77 Activity Center.

Alumni Give Back Day 2023 Over 50 alumni and friends converged on our campus for the Third Annual Give Back Day in June. Volunteers pitched in to clean outdoor signs, lay gravel, reorganize cabinets and write letters to prospective students, and the day resulted in an approximate $2,500 cost savings for the College. Kirk Aldridge '17, Chase Andrews '21, Alyssa Schueler and Dillon Schueler '18 enjoyed the breeze on the Trustee Terrace.

First Thursday with the Hoyts

Eric Feldpausch '11 and Brandon Cox '10 savored the sunshine while repainting the columns outside the Winchester Community Center.

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Doug '84 and Brenda Hoyt generously hosted Owensboro First Thursday with the Hoyts in July, one of our favorite summer traditions! Guests enjoyed home-cooked food, live music and poolside time with members of the Wesleyan family.

Doug '84 and Brenda Hoyt

Alumni Scrapbook

LouCity Group Nearly 70 people attended KWC Night at LouCity FC and enjoyed the private Waterfront Tent area, delicious food and a thrilling 2-1 come-from-behind LouCity FC win at Lynn Family Stadium.

KWC Summer Road Trip The second annual #KWCSummerRoadTrip was a success at every stop including Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Santa Claus, Madisonville, Bowling Green, Evansville and Louisville.

BY THE NUMBERS:

457

1,402

Bowling Green

Santa Claus

Kentucky Wesleyan Evening at the Bowling Green Country Club was a hit. Pictured: Amanda (Gray) '98 and Toby Hawkins '98, Mark and Emily Shook

Wesleyan Day at Holiday World broke our attendance record! Nearly 200 Panthers joined the festivities! Pictured: Paige (Kramer) Crisp '15 and future Panther Carly at Splashin' Safari

Alumni and Friends Attended

Miles Traveled

n A Kentucky Wesleyan Evening in Bowling Green

KWC Night with the Evansville Otters KWC Night with the Madisonville Miners n Wesleyan Strikes Indy n Wesleyan Night with the Reds n Wesleyan Day at Holiday World n KWC Night at LouCity FC n n

Stops

Special thanks to Roy Pickerill '75, Greg Risch '93, Lauren (Bishop) '08 and Stephen Wood '08, Ashley (Braun) '09 and Chris Gendek '10, Scott Kramer '87, Ryne Williams '12 and Jackie Fisher '89 for hosting this year's stops!

Alumni Hosts

Indianapolis

We were proud to sponsor the Madisonville Miners vs. Dubois County Bombers at Elmer Kelley Stadium in July, and we cheered for Panther baseball players Connor Scheer '26, Tavien Tigg '25 and Gabriel Medina '25, who played for the two summer collegiate teams! Pictured: Mary (Turner) McDole '79, Emmitt Carney '79 and Roy Pickerill '75 before Emmitt threw out the first pitch

Evansville Pictured: Tevin Vincent '14 on Bosse Field after performing the National Anthem

Pictured: Eddie Gomez '08 and future Panther Kaleb with a foul ball

Our Third Annual Wesleyan Strikes Indy event was a blast. Pictured: Tracy (Watson) Cockrum '90, Fred '80 and Melinda Wright, Kelly and Ron Flick, Jackie Fischer '89, Eddie Kenny, Beth '73 and Dan Ronk, Richard Pedigo '77 and President Mitzel at Atomic Bowl Duckpin

Cincinnati

Madisonville

A record crowd enjoyed Wesleyan Night with the Cincinnati Reds. Highlights included a pregame at Moerlein Lager House and a Fireworks Friday grand finale! Pictured: Sam Taylor '97, future Panther Ryan and Trustee Jim Griffin '80 after Ryan catches a foul ball.

Fall 2023

Class Notes

Precious visiting Elementary Demonstration Public School, in Greenville, Sinoe, April 2023

What calls us back: A story of escape and return to Liberia By Precious Buxton '09

This is the story of how, on the 3rd April 2023, I came back to Greenville, the capital of Sinoe County in southeastern Liberia. But to tell you the story of how I came back, first I need to tell you the story of how I left. That story begins thirty years ago, one sweltering Sunday morning in early 1993, a few months before my seventh birthday. I was sitting with my dad and siblings in St. Joseph's Catholic Church when a man came to the door and changed my life forever. "The rebels are coming," he yelled. "Run!"

Pillars

Brooklyn, N.Y., Uncommon Schools Director of Operations, August 2022

So we ran. A group of us fled the church towards Seebeh, about five miles away, going towards Puchan, where my mother's people are from. But when we got there, it was already deserted, so we continued another 15 miles to Upper Tartweh, where my father had family, finally arriving late that night, safe but exhausted. Tartweh offered sanctuary for a time. There wasn't enough food to go around, and there had been no school during peacetime, never mind when there was a war on. But my grandfather had a rice farm across the river, and we stayed there for a while. After just a few months, however, my grandfather came and told us the rebels had now entered this area too. We had to pack up our things and

Class Notes go, leaving behind my eldest sister who had polio and couldn't make the trip. So we kept running, from Tartweh to Jeabpo, from Jeabpo to Karweaken, staying in each place as long as we could before new reports of encroaching rebels and fresh atrocities in nearby communities would force us to move on. From Karweaken we finally made it to a camp for internally displaced people in Pleebo, near the Ivorian border. By the time we reached Pleebo, it was approaching Christmas time in 1994. "Oh, we missed celebrating your eighth birthday," someone said. "We never celebrated my seventh, either," I thought. Camp life was hard but for the first time since leaving Greenville, I got the chance to go back to school. Some of the kids were sent to a nearby Catholic school, but by this

time it was just my sister and me, and there was no one around to pay the fees for us to go. Not for the last time in my life, someone gave me the gift of education. I got to know a kind woman who taught first grade. She'd secretly let me sit in on her class, give me a pencil and paper, and tell me to do what the other kids were doing. Whenever the school principal came, I had to stay out of sight. Before long, even Pleebo wasn't safe anymore. We made our way to the port of Harper, and from there across the border to Tabou in Cote d'Ivoire. I was officially a refugee. Tabou would be my home for the next three years. My brother, sister and I went to an English-medium school for displaced Liberians run by the Adventist Relief and Development Agency. School didn't make much sense to me. I never seemed to finish a grade. They would give me tests and after each test I'd find myself bumped up another grade. Only much later did I discover how little I had really been learning. In 1997, four years after leaving Greenville, we got a call to say that an American woman was looking for us. The woman, a former Peace Corps volunteer in Liberia who had employed my birth mother as her housekeeper when she'd lived there, had been watching the unfolding horror of the civil war from her home in Northern Kentucky and was desperate to get us out. She couldn't take all of us, but she had space for two girls. My sister and I were the lucky ones. She flew to Liberia to complete the paperwork, we re-crossed the border to meet her, and a week later we were on a plane on our way to a new life and a new home. Adjusting to life in the U.S. was tough. The local schools really didn't know what to do with me. Without the patience and love of my adopted mom, I'm not sure I would have made it. But I did. I graduated high school and then college at Kentucky Wesleyan in Owensboro. For four years, I wholeheartedly devoted myself to meticulous preparations for my path toward a career in international development. Throughout this transformative journey, the close-knit community at Kentucky Wesleyan

Northern Kentucky, my first month in the United States, January 1998

Continues on page 29

Fall 2023

Class Notes 1955

1975

Ed Batsel was awarded the President's Lifetime Achievement Award by Americorps and the Office of the United States for his commitment to volunteer service. Ed recently completed 25 years of delivering Meals on Wheels to residents of Nashville. 1

Brad Livingood released his memoir, "Surrounding Sparky," which contains many KWC memories including SAM fraternity stories and a shoutout to late KWC English professor Dr. John Combs. 5

1960 Dr. Tom Owen was honored for his 47 years of service as a UofL archivist and historian of Louisville's community.

1983

1965

1984

Dr. Marshall Myers published his sixth book, "Enslavement in Kentucky."

President Emeritus Bart Darrell was named the 2023 Director of the Year by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. 6

Harold "Mike" Robinson was inducted into the Kentucky Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2022.

1969 George and Seretha (Summers) Tinsley '71 were honored with the naming of the Yum and KFC Corporate's Franchise Annual Award for them! The award is given annually at the National KFC Convention. George also received honors as one of the Top 10 Inspiring People in Polk County, Fla., for 2023. 3

1974 Dr. John Dew was recently published in Quality Progress, the monthly publication for the American Society of Quality. Dr. Dew's article, "Project by Project," addressed quality and sustainability. He recently spoke at the World Conference on Quality and Improvement in Philadelphia and will speak at the European Organization for Quality conference in Portugal in November. His book, "Continuous Improvement in Higher Education" is available on Amazon. Dr. Dew retired as the senior vice chancellor at Troy University in Alabama and stays very active in quality and environmental issues. 4

Pillars

Lydia Dorman began a new role as vice president of human resources at Sephora.

Trustee Emeritus Terry Woodward was inducted into the Owensboro Walk of Fame. 2

1968

1982

Trustee Emeritus and Alumni Hall of Fame member Mitch Settle and his team at Baird: The Settle Group were again recognized on the prestigious list of "Barron's Top 1,200 Financial Advisors."

1964

Trustee Donna (Mattson) and Steve Meador were honored with the 2023 Distinguished Citizen Award by the Shelby County Boy Scouts of America. 7 Rod Drake was named head coach of the Kentucky All-Stars basketball team for the summer series with Indiana. Rod is also the head boys' basketball coach at Owensboro High School. 8

1988 Jeff Sampson began a new role as national clinical network director at Priovant Therapeutics. 9

1990 Jamie Duvall retired as head women's soccer coach at KWC. Angela (Plain) Thompson was sworn in as the next Daviess County Family Court (Div. 4 & 6) judge.

1991 Sean Mahoney was inducted into the Berea Community High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Debbie (Sparks) Wathen was named preschool coordinator for Owensboro Public Schools. 10

Class Notes

Dr. Jennifer McKinney published her new book, "Making Christianity Manly Again." Dr. McKinney is a professor of sociology, director of women's studies and co-chair of the Sociology Department at Seattle Pacific University.

1992

2000

1993

Lori Parks Byers began a new role as agency administrator for the Lawton Group of insurance agencies. 15

John Lewis began a new role as public relations specialist at Baptist Health System. Prior to this new role, John spent 30 years in the broadcasting industry. 11

Andrew Pagel retired from Marshall County Schools after 28 years and recently began his term as Marshall County deputy judge/ executive.

1995 Gina (Truax) Biever retired after 27 years in education. She served as a teacher, staff developer, assistant principal, principal and assistant superintendent.

Dana (Tucker) Stauffer retired after a career in education. 12

1996 LaTasha Shemwell earned her master of education in student affairs from WKU. 13 Sonya (Kirby) Simpson was named the first full-service community schools coordinator for Daviess County Public Schools. 23

1997 Stacey (Baxter) Bischoff was named Outstanding Elementary School Assistant Principal of the Year by Jefferson County Association of School Administrators. 14

Sibbie (Tegethoff) Adkins began a new role as site administrator at Addiction Recovery Care's Yellow Banks Recovery Center in Owensboro.

1998 Gordon Evans II was named one of the Ohio Super Lawyer Top 50 for 2023. Gordon is a partner at The Donahey Law Firm in Columbus.

Brian Benjamin was named the district's first coordinator of full-service community schools for Owensboro Public Schools.

Chad Lyons was named Teacher of the Year at Louisville St. Xavier High School.

1994

Mary Elizabeth (Ashcraft) Bailey was named deputy secretary of the Personnel Cabinet for the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

2001 Dr. Jessica (Keenan) Estes was named CEO and managing director of Cumberland Hall Hospital. 16 Kelly (Nelson) Rowe was selected to participate in the Kentucky Chamber Foundation Leadership Institute for School Principals. 17

2002 Katie (Vandiver) Gunterman was inducted into the McLean County High School Hall of Fame. 18

2003 Lieutenant Courtney (Yerington) Burton graduated from the Criminal Justice Executive Development (CJED) course through the Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT). The four-week course is designed to develop and enhance management and leadership techniques in law enforcement supervisors. Lieutenant Yerington was the valedictorian of her class and works at the Owensboro Police Department. 19

2004 Brandy (Jennings) Bishop was named principal of Country Heights Elementary School in Owensboro.

2005 Allyson (Forrest) Sanders was named 2023 Minority Business Leader of the Year by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce. 20 Franklyn Ferguson published his first book, "The Power of Transfocreation."

Fall 2023

Class Notes Trustee Dr. BC Childress began a new role as medical science liaison at Johnson & Johnson. 21

2011

2006

John Kirkpatrick won second and third place awards for best feature stories from the Kentucky Press Association. John is director of public relations for Brewco Marketing Group and the business and nonprofit beat writer for the Owensboro Times.

Keith Cottoner was named CEO of the Hopkins County YMCA. He was also named 2023 Chamber Young Professional of the Year by the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce.

Taylor West started a new career as a pilot with Cape Air. 28

Jennifer Hendricks-Wright was sworn in as the next Daviess County Family Court (Div. 3) judge.

Bartley Weaver IV placed fifth out of 16 in the 2023 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4. Bartley ate 41 hot dogs in under 10 minutes.

2008

2012

Lauren (Bishop) Wood was presented with the inaugural KCTCS Pathfinder Award from Madisonville Community College. 22

Jake Pepper was named foundation chair of Caldwell Medical Center Foundation. Jake is the branch manager and vice president of commercial banking at Planters Bank in Princeton, Ky. 29

Whitney (Espenlaub) and Tyson Martin '07 opened their newest Orangetheory Fitness branch in Owensboro. The Wesleyan sweethearts also own the Evansville and Bowling Green locations. 23

2009 Chad Hart was named director of philanthropy at Owensboro Health Foundation. 24 Christy (Ashburn) Carnes recently passed the property and casualty insurance exam and began a new position with JR Wade State Farm in Bowling Green, Ky.

2010 Danielle Roe was selected as a speaker for the "Who's in Jersey?" program and shared her story with 400+ female athletes on National Girls and Women in Sports Day. Danielle is the girls' coach at Springfield Catholic Central High School in Springfield, Ohio. 25 Derrick Lindow published his new book, "We Shall Conquer or Die," which details partisan warfare in western Kentucky during the Civil War. 26 Michael Witten was promoted to electronic health record manager at Bon Secours Mercy Health in Cincinnati. Dustin Winslow earned his national board certification for teaching. He is a math and engineering teacher at Apollo High School in Owensboro. 27

Pillars

Kristen (Rowe) Anderson was named 4th Region Coach of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches. 30 Wesley Whistle began a new role as special assistant in the Office of the U.S. Undersecretary of Education. Wesley was previously policy director of the higher education program at New America and was KWC's 2022 Outstanding Young Graduate.

Michael Hinton was named lead pastor of Summit Church in Orlando, Fla. 31 Dr. Ryne Williams earned his orthopedic specialist certification.

2013 Joey Kramer was named a 2023 "Rising Star" by Super Lawyers. Joey is an attorney at DBL Law in Covington, Ky. Cory Coble was named principal of Union County Middle School. He was also named 2nd Region Coach of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches. 32

2014 Elizabeth (Griffith) Mudd was named president of Kentucky Lake Economic Development in Marshall County, Ky. She also married Taylor Mudd. Ginny Weant was cast in PUFFS by Otherworld Theatre Company in Chicago. 33

Class Notes

Taylor (Edge) Deveaux was promoted to director of governmental audit services in the Audit and Assurance Services Division of Riney Hancock CPAs PSC. Katie (Armstrong) and Cody Shelton welcomed baby girl Riley Kate. 34 Deidra Frazier was promoted to director of client care at Alliance Counseling Associates.

2015 45

Dr. Jordanne Gambill and Joel Hale were engaged. 35 Dan Ballard began a new role as quality control manager with Western Kentucky Distilling Company. Dr. Sydni (Fazenbaker) and Micah Crowell welcomed baby boy Micah Cash. 36

2016 46

Alex (Velez) and Jake Herth were married. 37 Tyler Shewmaker and Greta Ell were engaged. Jordan (Roberts) and Mihir Raichura were married. 38

Kerry Showers received the J.D. Miller Young Activist Award by the Indiana State Teachers Association. 39 Emmalee Speer and Kyle Franz were engaged.

2017 Keelan Cole was named to the inaugural GMAC Hall of Fame Class of 2023. 50

Wesleyan sweethearts Audrey (Sanders) and Logan O'Bryan welcomed baby boy Giovanni. 40 Britt Wells and Alicia Nelson were engaged. Casey (Smith) and Jacob Kueker were married. 41

Evan Mohr was promoted to the London, Ky., branch manager position for Motion Industries. Kirk Aldridge began a new role as community engagement specialist at Wendell Foster. 42 Dr. Sydney (Morabito) and Andrew Roby were married. 43

2018 Codie Drake was accepted into the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan's Leadership Class of 2023. Katy (Holland) Hart began a new role as director of business development and marketing at Advanced Center for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Owensboro. 44 Addie Reimbold was promoted to associate financial advisor at Reimbold & Miller – Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Caitlin Crabtree and Ryan Abdullah were engaged. Taylor and Michael Sutton welcomed baby girl Charlotte Mae. Mikalah (Greer) and Kyran Weemaels were married. 45 Mike Malone was promoted to account executive with Enterprise Fleet Management in Louisville. 46

2019 David "DJ" Thorp began a new role as a student success coach at Madisonville Community College. Kayce Dallas began a new role as a social worker at Ascension St. Vincent. Dr. Hannah (Pierce) and Jake Ryan were married. 47 Tori (Vail) and Nathan Johnson welcomed baby boy Atticus Russell. Officer Jarrett Collins was voted 2022 Officer of the Year at the Madisonville Police Department. 48 Dr. Kiah Gledhill graduated from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. Dr. Gledhill's next stop will be Mobile, Ala,. for his general surgery residency. 49 Nikos Agisilaou was named head boys soccer coach at Apollo High School in Owensboro. 50

2020 Dr. Sydney Goff matched with Houston Methodist Hospital (OB/GYN) for her medical residency. Sydney is a 2023 graduate of the UK College of Medicine-Bowling Green.

Fall 2023

Class Notes Brittany Woodward was recognized for saving the life of a 13-year-old Nelson County student-athlete. Brittany is a certified athletic trainer at KORT Physical Therapy. Collin Zollman finished the Boston Marathon on April 17. Collin finished 3,227 out of 26,625 with a time of 2:57:07. 51 The work of Samuel White and others at the Treehouse Wildlife Center was featured by Mississippi Valley Publishing. Samuel is a wildlife rehab manager at the facility. Ethan Maxey was named Whitesville Trinity High School's head baseball coach. Colton Baker graduated from the Department of Criminal Justice training in Richmond. He is an officer for the Owensboro Police Department. 52 Ethan Dossett began a new role as an admissions counselor at the University of Evansville. Danielle Brouillette was admitted to the Jones Foster law firm as a 2023 summer associate. In addition to her role at Jones Foster, she spent the summer as a law clerk at Gould Cooksey Fennell. Danielle is a student at the University of Florida's Frederic G. Levin College of Law. She was recently admitted to UF's Levin College of Law's LL.M. in Taxation program and will graduate with both a J.D. and master of law in taxation in the fall of 2024. 53

2021 Darayon Moore was featured on the University of Kentucky website. She is a firstgeneration college graduate and secondyear medical student currently enrolled in the UK College of Medicine-Bowling Green Campus. 54 Gloria Endicott graduated from NYU's Graduate School of Arts and Science. Gloria is currently working with children in fourth through eighth grade at the School of Blessed Sacrament in New York City. 55 Wesleyan sweethearts Kenzie Tomes and Chase Andrews were married. 56 Julie Kinsolving was named a 2022 McDonald's Outstanding Educator. Julie is a special education teacher at Burns Elementary School in Owensboro. Wesleyan sweethearts Madison (Vowels) and Tripp Grenier welcomed baby boy Maverick. 57

Pillars

Nicole Miller began a new role as a social studies teacher at Owensboro High School. Wesleyan sweethearts Michaela (Polivick) and Rob Coulter '10 were married. 58

Tia Chavella earned her master of science in forensic science with a concentration in chemistry and toxicology from Oklahoma State University. 59

2022 Maddy McCorkle began a new role on the graphic design team for the Nashville Rhythm Futbol Club. 60

Wesleyan sweethearts Ethan Holt and Cambria Vincent were engaged. 61 Isaiah Calalang began a new role as student engagement coordinator at Bluegrass Community and Technical College. 62 Scout Pope began a new teaching position at Iroquois High School in Louisville. Scout was named Rookie of the Year in her first year of teaching. 63

Wesleyan sweethearts Rachel (Glenn) and Brady Blythe '20 were married. Jacob Bugay began a new role as a firefighter with the Owensboro Fire Department. 64 Sydney (Logsdon) and Cameron Dawson were married. 65

2023 Wish Read was accepted into Teach for America. Wish is now teaching biological science at Chaparral High School in Las Vegas and is pursuing her master of education degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Emery Crume began her first teaching position as a language arts teacher for sixth grade at Daviess County Middle School. Ricky Simpson accepted a position as a satellite cardiac clinical assistant for Deaconess Heart Group Administration at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, Ind. Ricky will assist doctors by traveling the tristate area providing cardiac care.

Wiley Cain was accepted into UofL School of Medicine. 66 Gabby Schultz began her first teaching position as an LBD Resource Teacher at Sorgho Elementary School.

Class Notes What calls us back – Continued from page 23

stood by me unwaveringly, offering their support, which became especially evident during my initial trip to Rwanda. At Wesleyan, I pursued an interdisciplinary degree with a clear sense of purpose, always mindful of the destination I aimed to reach in the future. While a student at KWC, an internship at UNIFEM (now U.N. Women) took me to New York. It was love at first sight, and I decided then and there that I wanted to come back for grad school, taking a master of public affairs at N.Y.U.'s Wagner School. No doubt inspired by my own history, my program piqued an interest in peacebuilding and conflict, and I found myself drawn to working on these issues in schools, first through a placement in Rwanda and then as a volunteer back in New York. That turned into a 10-year career in education, rising through the ranks to become a director of operations with Uncommon Schools, one of the leading charter school networks in the U.S. It wasn't an easy decision to give all that up and return to Liberia. Leaving New York meant leaving a system and a network of education leaders I knew well for a country that had not been home to me for three decades. It meant leaving one of the largest and best resourced school systems in the world for one of the smallest and poorest. New York's public schools spend more money educating an elementary school pupil for half a day than a Liberian school would spend in a year. But I've always known it was a question of when, not if, I would come back. I tried once before, spending two years working for Professor Amos Sawyer's Governance Commission before that other great Liberian tragedy, the Ebola epidemic, cut short our work. In truth, it was not just the logistical disruption that sent me back to the U.S., but the realization that my skills were not what the country needed at that time. I vowed to come back when I had more experience, and when my skills as an educator could be put in service of the right mission. Which is how, on the 3rd April 2023, I found myself on my way back to Greenville. It was three months since I had taken over as managing director for Rising Academies in

Liberia, and I was visiting Greenville for the first time in my new role. Rising partners with the Ministry of Education to operate 95 public elementary schools in Liberia, 12 of them in Sinoe County. Since leaving Greenville all those years ago, I have been back from time to time. But this visit was different because one of the Rising schools I was visiting was Elementary Demonstration, and Elementary Demonstration is special to me and my family. Across the street from the school is the house where I was born and raised. In the evenings, after a hard day's work selling used clothes and raising her children, my mom, Comfort Toe, would cross the street from our house for night school classes at Elementary Demonstration. She dreamed of giving her children an education, and in the end even a war couldn't get in the way of that dream. I started my day by watching a Faster Reading session, a literacy program that Rising has rolled out across its schools in Liberia to help students build the foundational literacy skills they need if they are to succeed. After the session, I wandered down the hall towards the principal's office to give her some feedback on what I'd observed when a voice called out, "Muki!" I turned around in shock. It's a nickname only my friends and family would know. It was my cousin, Juah Kanmoh. It turned out he teaches Grade 2 at the school. And it's not just in the staff room that I found relatives. There were distant cousins in nearly every grade. Being back in my hometown and back at Elementary Demonstration brought mixed emotions and sadness that some things are as bad today as they were 30 years ago. Elementary Demonstration is still a struggling, under-resourced public school serving families who are no better off than their parents and grandparents were. The classrooms are still filled with students over-age for their grades, like my mother was back in the 80s. But hope, too. Hope inspired by the excitement of the students to learn. Hope inspired by the commitment of the staff to their community and their country. And hope inspired by the work Rising is doing to help. We're training teachers and equipping them with world-class curriculum materials. Our coaches, what we call school performance

Fall 2023

Class Notes managers, visit each school once a week to provide realtime coaching and feedback, monitor learning and child protection and collect data we can use to further refine and improve our program. We are changing how people view public education in Liberia. People often ask me why I moved back. It's pretty simple. I am one of 10 kids. Two of us got out. Eight didn't. I was no more deserving than my brothers and sisters who were left behind, nor for that matter the thousands of other kids just like us who went through things no child should experience. I live with that guilt every day. But on my better days, I can find my way to seeing it not as guilt but as obligation. I guess you could say I left something behind in Greenville when we ran for our lives that day, and it has called me back ever since. I could not help then; I can help now. Later that day in April, at another Rising school nearby, I met a different relative of mine. This young man is not even yet on the government payroll, but still commutes an hourand-a-half each day on a bike to get to school where he is paid a meager stipend for his efforts. For years, many of the villages around here did not have schools, and if they did, it was just a building without teachers because few would venture out to the far eastern counties. During his lunch break, we talked about how proud our townspeople are

Visiting a school in Liberia

of him, and I asked him what keeps him motivated to work so hard for so little. Like me, he is obsessed with ensuring every child from the village has the opportunity to learn. "This is where we are from," he said. "This is who we are."

We love hearing from you! Send us an update for Class Notes or update your contact information, and you will receive a purple surprise in the mail! Whether it's a move, promotion, wedding or other good news, we would love to know about it!

alumni@kwc.edu

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Office of Alumni Engagement 3000 Frederica St Owensboro, KY 42301

You may also submit Class Notes information online at

kwc.edu/alumni

In Memoriam We offer condolences on the passing of the following alumni and friends of Kentucky Wesleyan College: Marilyn (Watts) Allen '69 Donald R. Bradley '66 Rebecca L. Christie '95 Sharon Renee (Duncan) Church Dennis C. Cravens Stephen H. Cunningham '76 Mark Davis '81 Robert J. Duggan Jr. '74 Sylvia (Ross) Freeman '58 Brittney (Chenault) Goodman '89 Eric L. Graham '96 Dr. R. Glenn Greene Charles A. Hagan '72 Robert E. Hancock '60 Larry K. Harrington '62 Daniel Smith "Hobie" Hawken '72 Renita (Howard) Hines '68 Jeffrey L. Hurley '89 Wanda (Payne) Husk '84 Donovan Johnson '14 Kay (Grimes) Jones '88 Mildred (Poe) Kincaid '46 Frank A. List '53 Edith (Bowles) Myles '49 Paula (Baker) Nicely '77 Larry D. Ray '80 Lewis "Bud" Rouse '59 Jeffrey Sandberg Elizabeth (Clay) Smith '60 H. "Kermit" Smith '61 Martha Snyder '68 Catherine (Myers) Spenard '69 Paul Strotman '93 Rev. H. Michael "Mike" Taylor '67 Rebecca (Horn) Turner '78 James P. Vaughn '49 Patricia (Cotner) Weaver '73 Barbara (Savage) Wineinger '64 Joe Wright Karen (Duncan) Wynns '84

Fall 2023

WE Andrew Johannemann M.D. '10 and Stacy Webb, Ph.D. '10 Bailey, NC With Katherine Rutherman

Why did you attend KWC?

Please share information about your careers.

Andrew: "We were both chemistry majors.

Andrew: "After I completed my fellowship at Duke, I stayed on faculty for approximately 18 months. An opportunity arose to join a small private practice in Greenville, N.C., and I felt it was time to experience a different practice environment. I have been there for two years."

"Our journey to KWC was a bit . . . convoluted. Stacy had desires to be a chemical engineer when we started college and therefore, we started out at a bigger state university. Due to cost and the lack of support at the larger institution, we ended up parting ways to complete our associate degrees at local community colleges. When we were deciding where to go for our bachelor's degrees, we knew we wanted two things; something we could afford and a smaller, more intimate environment. While I often wonder how much easier those early years would have been if we had chosen KWC from day one, there was a lot of personal learning gained during those challenges."

What are special memories of your KWC years? Andrew: "Some of my fondest memories are of spending time nearly one-on-one with the chemistry faculty. The faculty in all the departments were available on a regular basis after class. We could often find the faculty in their offices at the end of the day, and we discussed classroom topics, research opportunities or just life in general. It was a very big change of pace from larger institutions where you felt like a number. It was clear from the amount of time the faculty here afforded each student that education was their number one goal." Stacy: "My memories center around being in the lab. I loved being there so much that I took on work as a lab teaching assistant my senior year. It was always fun tinkering around on a spectrometer with Dr. Connor. The support of the faculty in the Chemistry Department ignited confidence in my ability to pursue science. My advisor, Dr. Connor, was the first person to introduce the idea of graduate school to me and helped me to plan a path to get there. As a first-generation college student, I had very limited exposure to what my options were, and the faculty at KWC helped me see what I could accomplish."

Tell us about your education after KWC. "We both spent a year in a research lab at what was then the Owensboro Cancer Research Program." Andrew: "I then went to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, and I graduated with distinction in 2015. I completed an internship and residency in internal medicine there and then completed my rheumatology fellowship training at Duke University." Stacy: "I joined the Integrated Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program at the University of Kentucky, ultimately pursuing a Ph.D. in biochemistry. After graduating, I continued my training as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of North Carolina and then at Duke University." 32

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Stacy: "After completing my postdoctoral fellowship, I began working as a product development scientist at Asklepios Biopharmaceuticals in 2021. AskBio is a gene therapy company; the team I joined identifies and characterizes gene targets for various genetic disorders. I enjoy the marriage of basic science and clinical development this position affords me. Transitioning into a position in biotech was a big step for me and has opened my eyes to the way scientific discoveries can benefit patient populations. "I love chatting with young scientists about different career paths, and I have made two visits back to the Chemistry Department for presentations. I am always happy to be a resource for students."

One more question and an important one–how did you meet? "We met online when we were both in high school at the age of 15–remember AOL IM? We lived about four hours apart and dated long distance before moving for college together. We waited for a more reasonable age to get married and did so in April 2011."

"We give to KWC because generous people gave to the College before we even arrived. We struggled to afford college, and the scholarship aid provided at KWC allowed us to finish our undergraduate training with minimal debt. There were times when we questioned our ability to complete college simply due to finances. We both worked jobs during college and missed out on some of the typical 'college experiences.' Without the aid we received, we would not have felt comfortable moving on to the next phases of our educational paths as quickly as we did. We hope our contributions can help other students focus on their studies rather than their finances during college. "We encourage others to give because there are still plenty of first-generation college students who need support, just as we did. The financial support we received at KWC changed our lives."

Founder's Circle ($25,000+) Anonymous Association of Independent Kentucky Colleges and Universities (AIKCU) J. Rogers Badgett Sr. Foundation Carpets Unlimited Community Foundation of Louisville Ray & Kay Eckstein Charitable Trust Estate of William Woolfolk Jr. Barbara Johnson Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education B.J. Killian Foundation Owensboro Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau The Pearl Club Dr. Charlie '62 and Margaret (Heltsley) Schertzinger '59 Schwab Charitable Stuckemeyer Family Fund George '69 and Seretha (Summers) Tinsley '71

Trustee's Circle ($10,000-$24,999)

The 1858 Society, established June 1, 2022, honors our leadership donors and features investors at six giving levels who make annual cumulative contributions of $1,000 or more to the College. KWC's faithful donors make a direct impact on our students and the excellent education the College provides.

Linda (Huffaker) Abbott '59 Boardwalk Pipelines Edward and Anne Beeler Mike '78 and Cathy (Meeks) Bishop '78 The Catholic Foundation Noel '81 and Brenda Clayton Deborah (Carter) '79 and Ted Dearing Estate of Jean Earle Felix Estate of Dr. John R. Combs Lydia Dorman '82 Sherry (Miller) '83 and Joe Feldpausch Fraternal Order of Eagles Yellow Banks Aerie Jim Griffin '86 and Deidre Blevins Harold "Sonny" '67 and Christy (Hocker) Hall Talmage '85 and Rosemary Hocker Holston Conference United Methodist Church Foundation Inc. Michael E. Horn '75 Michael E. Horn Family Foundation Independence Bank* Donna (O'Bryan) '79 and Rick Larkin Jean Maddox Dr. W.L. Magnuson and Kirsten Ahnell Shirley (Peach) '68 and Peter McManus Dr. Thomas and Rhonda Mitzel NetVUE Judy Perry Julianne Perry Preston Family Foundation Greg '93 and Jamie Risch Keith and Vickie Sharber Stephen Snyder '71 Rev. Keith '79 and Sherri Switzer Jeff '72 and Susan White Wonder Boy Media

Ambassador's Circle ($5,000-$9,999)

The following is a list of donors who invested in the College in the last fiscal year (June 1, 2022-May 31, 2023). We are deeply grateful for your support and passion for KWC.

American Patriot Getaways* James '68 and Jennifer Arington Baird The Settle Group* Charles Beery

Fall 2023

1858 Society Honor Roll Paul Chellgren Coca Cola Dr. Paula Dehn Sandra (Schmidt) Dickinson '57 Eli Lilly and Company Enterprise Holdings Karen Fisher-Brasher '77 Kelly Frank '96 Steve and Trisha Frey Jerry Gaidmore '66 Drs. Troy '93 and Carolyn (Haynes) Haleman '92 Dr. LaTasha Henry '08 Robert Hill '68 German American Bank* Houchens Insurance Group Peoples Bank Dr. Robert Kirk Koch Foundation Matt '08 and Dr. Elizabeth (Mauzy) Martin '08 A.J. '71 and Susan Smith Merrylen (Wesley) Sparks '57 Richard and Janice Weaver Educational Trust Gina Wells Wesleyan Medical Practice* Fred '80 and Melinda Wright

Chairman's Circle ($2,500-$4,999) Dr. Ernest Abernathy '55 Betty Adams Ben Pearl Painting Charles Cobb '56 James and Mary Crawford Disaster Team, A Building by Wayne Baker Company* First United Methodist Church of Henderson Doug '65 and Norma Everly Katie Ann Flowers Greenwell Chisholm Lawrence & Augusta Hager Educational Foundation Todd '90 and Lisa Hall The Hess Corporation Jay '11 and Anna Ivey Drs. Andrew Johannemann '10 and Stacy Webb '10 Drs. Corey '00 and Ashley Johnson Dr. Stuart and Terri Jones Drew and Gail Kirkland Brenda Lee Dr. Joseph Lewis '11 Lonnie Nave Service Co.* Tom '79 and Donna Major Modern Welding Company* Patrick Morin Old National Bank Owensboro Grain Owensboro Health Roger Parker '69 Roy '75 and Margaret (Stinnette) Pickerill '75 Rev. Dr. Donald '65 and Pat (Webster) Rankin '55 Nancy (King) Schmeal '71

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Roland and Renee Shelton Donnie Stroud '65 Dr. Patrick Stuckemeyer Dr. Rollin '61 and Ann Tarter

President's Circle ($1,000-$2,499) Dr. Cynthia Abbott '87 and Marty Thomasson Aladdin Campus Dining* Kirk '17 and Summer (Crick) Aldridge '14 Steve '66 and Callie Anderson Steve Anderson Farms Joanie and David Andrews Judy Andrews Dwight '79 and Cynthia Armstrong Dr. Shane Armstrong and Jason Harris AstraZeneca Atmos Energy* Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division Kevin '89 and Melissa (Stiff) Aull '88 Angela (Chinn) '88 and David Austin Leonard '75 and Linda Baker Joseph Baumgartner '87 Albert '88 and Lisa (Eisenmenger) Bell '89 Dr. Kyle Blackburn '10 and Saumya Tayi John '68 and Joanna (Brown) Blaney '69 Boardwalk Pipeline Partners Lydie (Schmitt) Boone '73 Ralph Brashear '64 Gary and Virginia Braswell Dr. Harold '60 and Patricia (Clark) Burton '61 Lori (Parks) '00 and Ben Byers Margaret (Cole) Cambron '78 and Ed McCormick Rev. Dale '77 and Regenia Carden Carol (Wiedmer) '69 and Robert Carnighan Dr. BC '05 and Hope Childress Barbara Clark Roger Clark '63 Samuel '80 and Renee Clark Rev. Dr. William Clark '56 Nancy (Wood) '76 and Dr. Henry Connor Patrick Corkran '73 Brandon '10 and Charity Cox Sally (Allen) '67 and Don Crenshaw Carol (Combs) Daugherty '51 Fran (Newell) '78 and John Denham Rev. Mark '89 and Jennifer (Markle) Dickinson '91 James Diderrich '82 Steve '94 and Shannon Divine Anna Dixon-Skidmore Dr. Russell Doeringer '65 Dr. James '93 and Sharon (Murphy) Duncan '91 Rev. Thomas '68 and Susan Eblen Sharon (Midkiff) '67 and Denzil Edge Doug '65 and Norma Everly Ron and Kelly Flick Dan Frazier Anita Freer '59 Daniel Fuller '95 Corey '08 and Alaina (Morris) Gant '08 Marcia (Fowler) Garland '67

Mike '73 and Paula Garman Rev. Mark '78 and Cheryl (Smith) Gibbons '79 Rev. Dr. Michael '73 and Margaret Gibbons Mack Gray Heath '01 and Natalie Greenwell John Gregory Rev. Tom '78 and Cheryl (Spaulding) Grieb '79 Maurice '78 and Dr. Patrice (Webster) Hancock '80 Brent Hardin '95 Carolyn Hast Robert '83 and Holly (Cecil) Hast '90 Arthur and Debra Harreld Hendrick Screen Company* Rev. Dr. Phillip '77 and Barbara (Adams) Hill '77 Dr. Kristi (Wright) Horlander '91 Doug '84 and Brenda Hoyt Mark '83 and Dr. Paige (Fenton) Huls '84 Ray Hutchison '61 Jeremy Johnson '07 Suzanne Johnson '87 The Jurenko Foundation Ben '10 and Alexandra Kees Dr. Arba Kenner '74 Eddie and Wendy Kenny Colette Keyser '89 and Jerome Terrell Linda (Carver) Kingsley '62 Brenda Kirtley LaDonna Koebel '89 and Follace Fields Ed '93 and Dr. Jodi (Parks) Krahwinkel '93 Nancy (Luckett) '74 and Raymond Kramer Scott '87 and Penny (Mills) Kramer '86 Dr. John Loucks Dr. Frances Lucas Mark '95 and Stephanie (Shively) Luckett '92 Dr. Karen (Gurwell) '91 and Scott Lutz Dr. Gwen (Ford) '86 and Darvin Lynch Rev. Chris '74 and Ginny Madison Linda Major Brian and Susan Mangold David '68 and Connie (Ellsworth) Matthews '70 Jeron Maynard '08 Eleanor Meisenheimer Dr. Thomas '63 and Susan Meredith Dr. Jerry Miller '60 Ryan '12 and Jaimie (Fike) Moore '12 Dennis Newberry II Jean Nofsinger Flora (Jones) Norsworthy '73 Randy '64 and Jean (Taylor) Owen '63 Owensboro District United Methodist Church Owensboro Health* Owensboro Lions Club Rebecca (McClain) '75 and Roger Paulson Col. Tim '97 and Allison Payment Richard Pedigo '77 and Sandra Davidson Daniel Perkins '93 Ken '75 and Patty (Steward) Pernisek '78 David Phillips '65 Michael Pike '78 Dr. Wes and Carol Poling Donald Preuss '66 Rev. Ronald Preuss '66

1858 Society Honor Roll Public Life Foundation of Owensboro, Inc. Dr. Ray and Diane Purdom Randall '66 and Sherry Raskin Andrea Reilly '75 Addie Reimbold '18 Emma (Burns) Risley '84 Travis Roberts '07 Richard '67 and Barbara (Austin) Romer '65 Beth (Robinson) '73 and Dan Ronk Joe Roop '56 Allison (Estes) '02 and Kyle Ross Matthew Ruark '09 and Rebecca McQueenRuark Katherine Rutherman Jeff '88 and Leslie Sampson Keith '65 and Elissa Sanders Megan (Evans) '03 and Dr. David Schulte Mitch '83 and Kim Settle Ruth (Clark) Seydel '64 Debra Seymour Kathy Sherman '73 Dr. Catherine (Eblen) '95 and Eric Sherrard Mark and Emily Shook George '69 and Nancy (Gorrell) Skiadas '92 Rev. Dr. Jay '85 and Dr. Marian (Helm) Smith '85 Rev. Dr. Glenn '53 and Charlotte (Morrow) Sowards '56 Carolyn Staples Cindra Stiff and Jimmy Ray Christie (Kell) Stumpf '69

Eleanor Sutton^ John '70 and Bonnie (Rizer) Swaim '71 Alex '09 and Jill (Deibler) Switzer '07 Patricia Talbort Sam '97 and Leigha Taylor Sharon (Brenner) Taylor '65 Veronica (Power) Taylor '99 David Thompson '15 Dr. Sara Doolin-Thompson '94 and Travis Thompson Dr. James Thurmond '54 Dr. Gene and Cheryl Tice Ian '88 and Judith (Goebel) Tingley '87 Lanny Toomey '71 Dr. Ronald '80 and Susan (Taylor) Tyler '79 US Bank* Joel '74 and Shirley Utley Leah (Bennett) '77 and Larry Vandiver Steve Varner Michael F. Wade CPA '80 Crystal (Fishburn) '11 and Steven Walker Dr. David '72 and Sharon (Gregory) Watkins '69 Randall Weber '90 Wesleyan Medical Complex Kenneth Whitfield Rob Whittinghill Chris '11 and Sara (Fleischmann) Williams '15 Heath '14 and Alissa Williams Dr. Ed Wilson '85 Richard V. Wood '82

Drs. Barbara (Magnuson) '88 and Michael Woodward Brad '88 and Danielle (Benson) Woodward '88 Joe Wright Rev. John '73 and Barbara Wright Pat Yager Dr. Wendelin (Wotowiec) '89 and Lenny Zermeno

Young Alumni President's Circle (0-5 years post graduation, $100; 6-10 years post graduation, $500) Chase '21 and Kenzie (Tomes) Andrews '21 Tia Chavella '21 Codie Drake '18 Kylo Hicks '21 Jonathon Hidenrite '20 Nick Hines '18 Clayton Johnston '18 Austin Minton '22 Marissa Olivero '17 Daniel '17 and Makayla (Gish) Sharp '17 Chelsea (Adams) '13 and Nick Sherek Jacob '19 and Jamie (Tempel) Winkler '20 * Sponsorship supporter ^ Deceased

OUR STAFF President Dr. Thomas Mitzel

Vice President of External Relations Eddie Kenny Pillars is published by Kentucky Wesleyan College. The mission of the magazine is to maintain ties between the College, its alumni and all other constituents, and to report on issues of importance to these groups.

Address correspondence to:

Pillars Magazine Office of External Relations 3000 Frederica St | Owensboro, KY 42301 ekenny@kwc.edu 270-852-3146

Send address changes to:

Office of Alumni Engagement Kentucky Wesleyan College 3000 Frederica St | Owensboro, KY 42301 alumni@kwc.edu or 270-852-3140

A United Methodist-related college since 1858

Editor, Senior Director of Campus Relations Katherine Rutherman

Senior Director of Engagement

Director of Career Engagement Laura Rudolph

Alumni Engagement Coordinator Mary (Turner) McDole '79

Special Assistant for College Relations and Sports Information Director Emeritus Roy Pickerill '75

Summer (Crick) Aldridge '14

Contributing Writers

Assistant Vice President of External Relations

Summer (Crick) Aldridge '14 Precious Buxton '09 Molly Gross Dr. Thomas Mitzel Roy Pickerill '75 Katherine Rutherman

Leigha Taylor

Senior Director of Design and Database Jaimie (Fike) Moore '12

Contributing Photographers

Director of Grants Administration

Summer (Crick) Aldridge '14 Joel Krenz Charles Mahlinger Fall 2023 Sydney Smith

Kelly Flick

NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO, KY 42301 PERMIT #398

3000 Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42301