Magazine WINTER
2019
Mount Rushmore of Wesleyan page 4
Kentucky Wesleyan College
On the Inside:
Barton D. Darrell ’84, J.D. President
3 President’s Perspective 11 Giving Tuesday 14 Homecoming Scrapbook 16 Alumni Scrapbook 18 Office of Advancement 20 Class Notes 23 In Memoriam 24 Athletics 28 President’s Circle
Eddie Kenny Editor Interim Vice President of Advancement M. Blake Harrison Director of Development and Donor Relations Ruthie (Hutton) Hume ’62 Administrative Assistant Mary (Turner) McDole ’79 Alumni Relations Coordinator Jaimie (Fike) Moore ’12 Director of Advancement Services Roy Pickerill ’75 Special Assistant for College Relations Katherine Rutherman Director of Development and Campus Relations Contributing Writers: President Barton D. Darrell ’84, M. Blake Harrison, Eddie Kenny, LaDonna Koebel ’89, Mary (Turner) McDole ’79, Roy Pickerill ’75, Katherine Rutherman Contributing Photographers: Eddie Kenny, Charles Mahlinger, Alan Warren (MessengerInquirer) Kentucky Wesleyan Magazine 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: Kentucky Wesleyan Magazine Office of External Relations 3000 Frederica Street Owensboro, KY 42301 ekenny@kwc.edu 270-852-3146 Send address changes to: Office of Alumni Relations Kentucky Wesleyan College 3000 Frederica Street Owensboro, KY 42301 alumni@kwc.edu or 270-852-3146
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Features:
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Cover Story: Mount Rushmore of Wesleyan by Roy Pickerill ’75
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Campus Welcomes Largest Group of Students in Over a Decade
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Solid Foundations for Strong Futures by Katherine Rutherman
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Why We Give Dr. Charlie ’62 and Margaret (Heltsley) Schertzinger ’59 with M. Blake Harrison and Katherine Rutherman
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“Pleas” and Thank You by Mary (Turner) McDole ’79
A United Methodist-related college since 1858
President’s Perspective Hello from Kentucky Wesleyan College! We are heading quickly toward the end of another fantastic academic year on campus. That also means we are approaching commencement where we will, with bittersweetness, send off more great Wesleyan graduates into the world to make positive and unique change. It has been a tremendous year in and out of the classrooms here. Our students, under the guidance of our fantastic faculty and with the support of our great staff, continue to perform at extremely high levels. We have continued to be recognized by leaders in higher education and evaluated as a high performing college. As examples, U.S. News & World Report ranked Kentucky Wesleyan 13th in the South, and College Consensus ranked us 2nd of all colleges and universities in Kentucky. But even high rankings don’t tell what we really do. Our students’ academic successes and personal growth are what we, in large part, choose to be measured by. Based on what I get to see each day here on campus, we are delivering. We have amazing students who should make each of you, as a graduate and/or supporter of Kentucky Wesleyan, extremely proud of your connection and investment. We continue to see structural changes on campus to enhance our students’ experience. If you haven’t been on campus in the past few months, take time to visit the Winchester Center and see the newly renovated Hocker Dining Hall, new 24-hour convenience store and new grill — the Panther Café — all great additions to our campus. I want to thank each of you for all you do and for all you mean to Kentucky Wesleyan. We will always want to reflect at the highest level the passion and commitment you have for our great college. I look forward to seeing you soon!
Barton D. Darrell ’84, J.D. President
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Mount Rushmore of Wesleyan
by Roy Pickerill ’75
Have you ever thought if Kentucky Wesleyan College had its own Mount Rushmore (i.e. Mount Wesleyan) which faces would be carved into the stone to symbolize the great leaders of our history? Recently a few long-time Kentucky Wesleyan family members came up with the four suggested faces that might be on the shrine. The suggested names were Talmage E. Hocker ’27, Dr. Gus E. Paris, Luellen Pyles ’44 and Dr. W.L. Magnuson. Talmage E. Hocker ’27 Hocker literally saved our College from permanently closing when in 1950 the institution at Winchester was in crisis. He and others realized the only way the College would survive would be to find an alternative location and move to another part of the state. Hocker, as president of the Owensboro Alumni Club led the group in seizing the opportunity and played a key role in the decision to relocate the College to Owensboro in 1951. He was a developer and was credited with transforming Frederica Street into the main street of Owensboro by developing Wesleyan Park Plaza and the neighborhood surrounding our new 70-acre campus. The Kentucky Wesleyan College history book reads, “His vision and optimism for the future success of such a move convinced the city leaders and the whole community to raise $1,000,000 in a matter of months to continue educating students and developing leaders at Kentucky Wesleyan into the future.” To honor him, the Alumni Association established its first alumni award – the Outstanding Alumnus Award – with Hocker as the first recipient in 1974. He was also inducted as part of the inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame Class in 2004. Dr. Gus E. Paris The next selection officially closed the Winchester Campus and helped set up our new Owensboro home. On a request from then-President Oscar W. Lever, Dr. Paris traveled back to an empty Winchester Campus to ensure no item was left behind, shut the lights off, locked all doors and turned the keys over to the mayor of Winchester. On his return, he started on Sept. 24, 1951, as one of the 32 members of the faculty/ staff who welcomed the first fall semester students to Owensboro as assistant professor of history and director of the freshman dormitory. “When I encounter our alumni, the name most often mentioned is Gus Paris,” commented Scott Kramer ’87, vice president of executive initatives and retention. “During his 40-year career, he served in a variety of positions ranging from a professor to the registrar and director of financial aid at the same time without a computer. “A true titan of the College who touched and influenced countless students to successful careers.” Luellen Pyles ’44 The next selection began her association with Kentucky Wesleyan as a young child when her grandfather was a graduate at our first campus at Millersburg. Miss Pyles devoted her whole life to the promotion of her alma mater — 74 years to be exact — making a lasting impact on the 4
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College and becoming one of its most influential graduates. She never distanced herself from her alma mater, regardless of her professional or personal life. She kept in touch, participated at every opportunity and continuously cultivated her classmates, keeping track of their whereabouts and nurturing her relationships with them. As a result, alumni from the Winchester era are extremely faithful and loyal to the programs and needs of the College, especially by helping fund the building of the Winchester Campus Community Center. She participated with tremendous zeal in student recruitment activities regularly and mentored many students over the years. Director of Admissions Matthew Ruark ’09 boasted, “Luellen understood the value of ‘casting seed’ on behalf of the College by hosting events, recruiting donors and students alike and inspiring generations of alumni with her steadfast support and spirit for Wesleyan. “She modeled what an alumna should be — utilizing all her God-given gifts of time, talent and treasure to advance the mission of Kentucky Wesleyan College.” Miss Pyles’ recruiting passion led to the establishment of the “Adopt-A-Freshman” program. She also served on the board of trustees for 40 years. The College named its Admissions and Financial Aid Office suite the Luellen Pyles Enrollment Center in her honor, and her generosity continues to engage alumni to this day and forevermore. Dr. W.L. Magnuson The final selection retired in the spring of 2018 after a record 49 years of teaching chemistry at Kentucky Wesleyan College. Dr. Magnuson arrived on Frederica Street in 1969 from Texas with fellow McMurry College faculty colleague Dr. Bob Darrell and his eight-year old son — current Wesleyan President Bart Darrell ’84. During his tenure, Dr. Magnuson pursued equipment upgrades in chemistry, oversaw the move to the new Yu Hak Hahn Center for the Sciences, administered the James Graham Brown scholarships and worked closely with the success of the program. He also held the position of financial aid director for two years. Dr. Kim (Cecil) Schuster ’88 best summed up the heartfelt thoughts and feelings of hundreds of alumni: “He offered encouragement and belief in my abilities, which provided a great foundation for my education and career.” Magnuson added. “Nothing compares with my interaction with my current students and alumni. Every time I hear from alumni, every time I celebrate one of their successes, it means everything to me.”
Each of these individuals and so many more mean so much to our Kentucky Wesleyan College. We know there are others who deserve consideration, and we would like to hear who would be on your Kentucky Wesleyan Mount Rushmore. With so many people that made a tremendous impact on all our lives, there are no right or wrong choices. Join the conversation, and send your Kentucky Wesleyan Mount Rushmore to us – mail submissions to our Office of Alumni Relations (3000 Frederica Street, Owensboro, KY 42301), send us an email at alumni@kwc.edu, post and share on our social media outlets (Facebook - facebook.com/kwcalumni; Twitter and Instagram - @kwcalumni).
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Campus Welcomes Largest Group of
Kentucky Wesleyan welcomed its largest incoming class of freshmen and transfers in over a decade when the Fall 2018 semester began on Aug. 28. A total of 333 new Panthers were a part of the newest group of students to join the Kentucky Wesleyan family – a 39 percent increase from 2017 and raising total full-time on-campus enrollment at the College to 738. “Not only was this one of largest classes in recent memory, it was also one of our strongest academically,” said Jeremy Pittman, former vice president of admissions and financial aid. “Our recruitment process is focused on building value in our degrees, and students and their parents are seeing that value.” The Fall 2018 headcount was a 13.4 percent increase in full-time enrollment from 2017. The total number of freshmen (249) was the most since 2007, while the total number of transfers and re-admitted students (84) was the most since 2006. “This incoming class is a testament to the hard work and effort of our Admissions team, our elite faculty and staff, our high caliber returning students and the value we provide as a faith-based liberal arts institution that also focuses intently on career preparation,” said President Bart Darrell ’84. “Our alumni should also take great pride in the continued upward enrollment trend here at Kentucky Wesleyan College, as their successes and examples make the College attractive to more and more students and families. We also celebrate these results with the Owensboro and Daviess County community, which has long known the reputation of our College and supported our students. But this community is also significant when potential students come to visit and see what this great college town has to offer them. Quite simply, ‘The Wesleyan Way’ is a great formula to set up for a great life. That message is spreading.”
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New Students in Over a Decade
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Solid Foundations for Strong Futures by Katherine Rutherman
About Dr. Dehn Ph.D., Biology, University of South Florida M.A., Zoology, DePauw University B.A., Zoology, DePauw University Dr. Dehn was a visiting scientist for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and a professor of biology at the University of Texas at San Antonio and Canisius College in Buffalo, N.Y., where she was chair of the Biology Department, before coming to Wesleyan. Her teaching interests include environmental and biochemical toxicology, physiological ecology, invertebrate physiology and comparative and animal physiology, marine biology and ecology, oceanography; and law, ethics and life sciences. Her experience includes extensive research and program development in the sciences. She has mentored more than 250 undergraduate students in her research program and has secured several million dollars in external funding for STEM program development and student scholarship support. 8
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Front row, left to right: Dr. Janella Moy, Dr. Michael Nelson, Dr. Stephanie Kodatt, Dr. Melissa Diebel Back row, left to right: Pattie-Lane Riethmaier, Kevin Horn, Dr. Paula Dehn, Dr. Chris Miller, Dr. Whitney Schmidt
“Every academic year is unique, and every year builds on the preceding ones,” reflected Dr. Paula Dehn, academic dean, who has spent 10 years at Kentucky Wesleyan. “I’ve always found the new year to be invigorating, challenging and fun.” The campus community welcomed a number of new faculty members to campus from around the country in August 2018, their arrivals necessitated by recent retirements. Dehn said the retiring long-term faculty laid a great foundation for the College’s future through their hard work and commitment to the institution and student success. “We would not be where we are today without them. They all made their mark on individual students and on the College as a whole.” Dr. Dehn said the new faculty want to make a difference and add new dimensions to Kentucky Wesleyan. “They all want to teach and do scholarly work, while taking time to enjoy the community,” she explained. “They, too, want to make their own marks in their own ways, and I know they will. They are an impressive and interesting group.” The dean said she, too, came to Wesleyan because she wanted to make a difference in a small, faith-based institution. “I was drawn to the mission of the institution and the attention to first-generation students,” she shared. “The students here reminded me of myself, a first-generation student, and of how the opportunity to get a college education impacted my life. I wanted to work with undergraduates, and I wanted help guide the College to develop new ways to best prepare students for successful lives.” Since Dr. Dehn’s arrival in July 2008, Kentucky Wesleyan has added health sciences, online degree programs with six majors, the Center for Engaged
Teaching and Learning, the Student Success Center, the prestigious Honors Program, the exercise science program with a human performance lab, and a Wesleyan Fellows program for student research. The expanded theatre program now collaborates with the RiverPark Center and the other colleges and universities in Owensboro, and the music program is thriving and growing in both vocal and instrumental study. She was influential in securing external funding for the Sophomore Year Experience program and the Title III Strengthening Institutions grant. New student enrollment increased by 39 percent in August, the largest class of new students in more than a decade. This included a total of 69 new biology and zoology majors, the result of an aggressive nationwide marketing campaign for zoology, and a new zoology professor arrived from Scotland in January. The unique curriculum and program prepares students for careers as zookeepers, park rangers, game wardens, animal trainers and countless other career and graduate opportunities, including animal research, veterinary medicine and other options. “All of these accomplishments are group successes through the team efforts of faculty and staff with support from the president and cabinet,” explained Dehn. “Where will we go from here? It will be exciting to see, and our vibrant new faculty will make significant contributions.”
Dr. Melissa Diebel Assistant Professor of Middle Grades Education Ed.D., Concordia University-Portland M.S., Fort Hays State University B.S., University of Nebraska-Lincoln “I have been teaching for 15 years, and my experience has ranged from middle school through adult education, in both public and private schools. I most recently taught high school college prep courses in Nebraska, where I worked with firstgeneration college hopefuls in grades 9-12. I love to read, write and sing (although only alone!).” Dr. Jeremy Gibson Assistant Professor of Biology Ph.D., University of Missouri M.S., University of Cincinnati B.S., Northern Kentucky University “I am completing a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland. My research interests into the behavioral ecology of vibrational communication systems, using both insect and spider species, will provide engaging research opportunities for students. In my postdoctoral studies, I investigated how body size affects the shape and acoustic tuning of insect hearing systems and assisted engineers in the development of novel acoustic sensors based on biological systems.”
Kevin Horn Assistant Professor of Biology Ph.D. candidate (all but dissertation), Southern Illinois University Carbondale M.Ed., Edinboro University M.S., Binghamton University B.S., Rochester Institute of Technology “The focus of my dissertation research for a doctorate in zoology is systematics and molecular evolution in annelids (segmented worms). I am also interested in exploring ways to use free open source resources and publicly available data in my class instruction.” Dr. Stephanie Kodatt Assistant Professor of Marketing Ph.D., Our Lady of the Lake University M.B.A., Creighton University B.S., Florida State University “Marketing is stimulating and gives me the opportunity to truly be creative and interactive with many people and so broad that it that allows one to incorporate their interests into a career in the field. My passions are marketing research and teaching at the college level. I love all college sports, travel and volunteering with my church. It is good to be in an environment where I can share my faith.” Winter 2019
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Dr. Chris Miller Assistant Professor of Psychology Ph.D., University of Minnesota B.S., University of Florida “I have presented research on political psychology at national and international conferences. A focus of my teaching is learning to apply empiricism and critical thinking in a world that bombards us with information. This is an essential skill today.” Dr. Janella Moy Assistant Professor of English Ph.D., St. Louis University M.A., Southern Illinois University Edwardsville B.A., Southern Illinois University Edwardsville “My Ph.D. specialized in American literature, and I have 11 years of experience in teaching English courses at the university level. My research and writing interests include spirituality and medical humanities, connecting to my earlier career as a registered nurse. My hobbies include traveling, quilting and spending time with family.” Dr. Michael Nelson Assistant Professor of Elementary Education Ed.D., University of the Cumberlands M.Ed., Grand Canyon University B.S., Drury University “I prepare preservice teachers at the PK-5 level for careers in education. My passion is to continue research on improving minority education in urban settings.”
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Pattie-Lane Riethmaier Assistant Professor of Exercise Science M.S., Old Dominion University B.S., University of North Alabama “I earned a bachelor’s degree in health promotion and was awarded the title of ‘Most Promising Alumni’ in the University of North Alabama Health and Human Performance Department. I worked as a wellness education graduate assistant for two years while completing my master’s degree.” Dr. Whitney Schmidt Assistant Professor of Chemistry Ph.D., Oregon State University B.S., Northern Kentucky University “I received a Ph.D. in chemistry with a focus on solid state chemistry. I spent the last three years at the University of Sheffield in England, where I performed research on energy harvesting materials. During this postdoctoral research position, I developed and taught a laboratory course for the undergraduate program in materials science and engineering. This teaching experience motivated me to focus my career on undergraduate education and research.”
Alumni and Friends Make a Difference (Again) on
Giving Tuesday Since being introduced to the Kentucky Wesleyan community in 2015, Giving Tuesday has become the single largest day of giving annually for the College. Alumni and friends have given generously to support the areas of passion and interests they have in the College. 2018 was no exception. As the day approached, a goal was set to surpass $600,000 in total giving for the four years, establishing a threshold of $153,000 for this year’s Giving Tuesday. Once again, investors to the College rewrote the history books and contributed $156,647 in charitable gifts, thus lifting the four-year total to $604,392. The 2018 total included gifts from donors in 12 states and alumni who made their first gift since graduating from Wesleyan. “We are tremendously grateful to our alumni and friends for their loyalty and generosity of spirit,” said Eddie Kenny, interim vice president of advancement. “Thanks to you, Giving Tuesday is now an honored Wesleyan tradition.” As has been the tradition for these four years, the day preceding Giving Tuesday was the Wesleyan Way Day of Service, making this a signature two-day event for the College.
The Center for Engaged Teaching and Learning facilitated the Wesleyan Way Day of Service, providing service project opportunities for student groups, organizations, athletic teams and faculty/staff to spend time giving back in the Owensboro community. Additionally, alumni near and far were invited and encouraged to share their community service efforts and time to add to the impressive totals. The Wesleyan Way Day of Service on Nov. 26 resulted in 261 volunteer hours. Projects included visits and support of initiatives at the OASIS women’s shelter and the Senior Community Center in Owensboro. Scholar-athletes also visited five elementary schools, reading to and engaging students while on-campus volunteers assembled care packages for senior citizens and made reusable bags for the CrossRoads Emergency Women’s Shelter. A Christmas Wish Carnival was also hosted in Rogers Hall, benefiting families from local elementary schools. The Wesleyan community has committed 1,170 hours since the inception of the service day. “To once again achieve and surpass our dollar amount goal on Giving Tuesday is truly remarkable,” said President Bart Darrell. “We are incredibly grateful for the investors who believe in our mission and actively support it. Coupled with the commitment of students to service in our community, these two days are so impactful for Kentucky Wesleyan College and speak to the core of who we are, what we do and why we do it.” In 2019, the Wesleyan Way Day of Service and Giving Tuesday will take place on Dec. 2-3.
Left to right: Dr. Shane Armstrong, Tonya (Schroader) Johnson ’95, Molly Gross, Deborah Jones and Josiah Coleman ’20 participated in The Wesleyan Way Day of Service by dedicating time at OASIS women’s shelter in Owensboro.
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Why We Give Dr. Charlie ’62 and Margaret (Heltsley) Schertzinger ’59 with M. Blake Harrison and Katherine Rutherman
About the Schertzingers Charlie retired from RiverPark EyeCare after 50 years as an Owensboro optometrist. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1956–1959 and graduated from the Indiana University School of Optometry in 1963. Charlie has served Kentucky Wesleyan as a trustee since 2000. In addition to Wesleyan, Margaret also attended the University of Louisville and was an Owensboro dental hygienist for 20 years. The Schertzingers met at a drive-in restaurant in 1955 and were married in 1959. They are active members of Settle Memorial United Methodist Church. Their son, Dr. John Schertzinger ’87, attended Wesleyan and is an optometrist in Madisonville. He has three daughters; Emma, Anna Kate and Rebekah. Their daughter, Carla Browning ’91, earned her degree in sociology and previously worked at River Valley Behavioral Health. She has a daughter, Dixie. You two are top donors on an annual basis. Why do you lead by example through annual giving? Charlie: “As a trustee, I understand that annual investments are critical to operations. It’s extremely important that alumni and friends give back annually. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of the individual donor. Think of the power one person has to influence the future. It’s The Wesleyan Way.” Margaret: “Our relationship to Wesleyan means everything to us. We benefited from our Wesleyan experience, and we want others to benefit, too. It makes sense to say ‘thank you’ by giving back so others will have the same positive experience. It’s just something our family has always done. That’s just part of life.”
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Charlie, you’ve served on the board of trustees for a long time. What is your motivation to do so? “I want to be involved in the leadership of Wesleyan and try to give back through working for the school. I find it very satisfying. We also enjoy giving.” Why have you served as loyal volunteers, specifically in relation to athletics? Charlie: “We’ve been involved with athletics since the late ’50s. It’s entertainment to us to watch the kids mature and to know them. You become part of their lives.”
The College has been blessed over the years, including very recently, to receive estate gifts from benefactors. You have left a provision in your estate for Wesleyan, too. Why?
Margaret: “Look at the people who have stayed in Owensboro, and you still know them. When you see them and they give you a hug, it makes you feel pretty good.”
Charlie: “It’s important to have an endowment to fund scholarships and other needs for students. Private schools rely heavily on annual gifts and bequests in the absence of state funding.”
Charlie: “Our roots are here. Margaret’s father, Dr. Douglas Heltsley, attended Kentucky Wesleyan at the Winchester campus in the ’20s and was on the committee
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What does Wesleyan mean to you?
that brought the College to Owensboro in the early ’50s. I was the first member of my family to earn a college degree. We can’t imagine our lives without the influence of Wesleyan. The College provided a strong foundation for our lives and careers, and our association with the College all these years after our graduation means a great deal to us.” What are memories of your college days? Charlie: “I was worried about making the grade when I arrived at IU, and I quickly realized that I was well prepared for professional school. The Wesleyan science program was, and is, so strong.” Margaret: “We loved living in a Quonset hut in Reynolds Village, our first home. It was filled with hand-me-down furniture, and we thought it was just wonderful. We had so much fun with our neighbors. We walk into the HRC today and remember that our home was located at what is now the entrance to the HRC. Happy memories.” What are your thoughts about Wesleyan today? Charlie: “Our city is filled with people who got their start at
Wesleyan. They all received an excellent private education with one-on-one attention. Think of what the College has done for Owensboro economically. Wesleyan has had an immeasurable influence since the early ’50s. “We love Panther sports, and so does Owensboro! Wesleyan athletics are extremely important to the community – the entertainment and economic value of our sports program is significant. Many Wesleyan athletes excel academically, and they graduate with tremendous preparation for careers and graduate/professional schools.” Margaret: “I think of our science program because that is our background and experience. It is a superior program, as it was when we were students. We were honored to provide funding for three rooms in the Yu Hak Hahn Center for the Sciences, and we are so proud that so many Wesleyan graduates are health care professionals right here in Owensboro, as well as in many other cities around the country.”
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Purple Reigns at Homecoming 2018 Wesleyan alumni descended on Owensboro from 14 states for Homecoming 2018 (Sept. 28-30). The weekend was full of tributes and celebrations of Wesleyan greats and a reminder of the meaning of The Wesleyan Way.
From early Friday morning through the early evening hours, students, faculty, staff and alumni came together to participate and give back via the build-a-bed ministry hosted by Campus Ministries. In its second year at Wesleyan, the goal was to double the output from 2017 and build 28 beds for needy children in the Owensboro community. Through sawdust, power tools, manual labor and artistic enterprise, the Wesleyan family accomplished its goal. The beds, complete with bedclothes, toys and Bibles, were delivered to area children.
The weekend began with the dedication of Kingsley Korner in memory of Doug Kingsley ’61. Doug exemplified The Wesleyan Way in every way and was affectionately known as “Doug the Doer” by friends and colleagues. He will always be remembered at Kingsley Korner, which is a heavy traffic spot for students and visitors and features the beautiful courtyard outside of the John Mark Sowards Office of Campus Ministries.
The Class of 1968 celebrated throughout the weekend and was inducted into the Golden Jubilee Club at Saturday night’s Alumni Hall of Fame and Awards Dinner on the occasion of its 50th Reunion. More than 20 class members returned for the weekend, which included a kick-off reception in the Barnard-Jones Administration Building, the Golden Jubilee Brunch, the induction and numerous “unofficial” celebrations. 14
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Coming home provided an opportunity to visit with the next generation for many Wesleyan Legacies as it was also Fall Family Weekend. Cynthia Abbott ’87 and son Drew, a freshman at Wesleyan, were able to see the newly-named Ben ’59 and Linda (Huffaker) Abbott ’59 Business Office.
The Wesleyan Singers once again performed to a full house in Tapscott Chapel, providing a memorable concert that featured a Wesleyan take on the Prince classic, “Purple Rain,” and captured the theme of this year’s Homecoming celebration with a performance of “Purple Reigns” with lyrics from Alumni Relations Coordinator Mary (Turner) McDole ’79.
The Saturday night Alumni Hall of Fame and Awards at the Owensboro Convention Center provided an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments and commitment of several deserving individuals who were honored with the Alumni Association’s annual recognition awards and induction into the Alumni Hall of Fame.
2018 Alumni Hall of Fame and Award Honorees Left to right: Dr. Ken Ayers (Gus E. Paris Distinguished Service Award), Becky Horn (sister of Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2018 inductee Michael E. Horn ’75), Mitch Settle ’83 (Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2018 inductee), LaDonna Koebel ’89 (Alumni Service Award), Greg Risch ’93 (Outstanding Alumnus Award), Dr. Karen (Gurwell) Lutz ’91 (Alumni Achievement Award), Rev. W. Glenn Sowards ’53 (Alumni Hall of Fame Class of 2018 inductee)
A large group of Kappa Delta sisters returned for the weekend and gathered for a photo at Saturday night’s Alumni Hall of Fame and Awards.
Dr. W.L. Magnuson and daughter Dr. Barbara (Magnuson) Woodward ’88 in front of the newly unveiled Magnuson Scholars Program display
Dr. W.L. Magnuson, who retired from Wesleyan after 49 years of service, was honored with a tree planting and special reception at the Yu Hak Hahn Center for the Sciences. The Magnuson Scholars donor recognition wall was also unveiled on the 2nd floor opposite Dr. Magnuson’s former office. Thanks to many generous donations, the Magnuson Scholars Program will provide scholarships to chemistry students in perpetuity.
Left to right: Professor Emeritus Dr. Henry Connor, Honorary Assistant Professor Emerita Nancy Flachskam, Professor Emeritus Dr. Robert Flachskam, Professor Emeritus Dr. W.L. Magnuson, Dr. Krystal (Teasley) Hamorsky ’04, Dr. Whitney Schmidt, Dr. Kyle Watson
Perfect weather was the backdrop for the Panther Tailgate and Food Truck Rally as families and friends painted the campus purple. The Panthers hosted Walsh University for the Homecoming game, providing many alumni an opportunity to see the brand new Independence Bank Field at Steele Stadium. The new turf surface was installed prior to the start of the 2018 season. The tradition of recognizing the Homecoming Court during halftime continued, and a king and queen and prince and princess were crowned: King & queen: Johnothan Reynolds & Sydney Goff* Prince & princess: Thomas Roth & Selena Coalter *Jordan Danflous stood in for Sydney as she traveled back from a Cross Country meet
Left to right: King & queen: Johnothan Reynolds & Jordan Danflous; Prince & princess: Selena Coalter & Thomas Roth
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Alumni Scrapbook The Kentucky Wesleyan Alumni Association continues to host events that connect alumni and friends with the College and with one another in their hometowns. In total, the Alumni Association hosts an average of 40 events year throughout the Owensboro region, the Commonwealth and the nation. In addition to monthly Owensboro First Thursday and bi-monthly Louisville Third Thursday networking receptions, our spring and summer 2019 events include the Day at the Races-Keeneland (April 4), the President’s Gala (June 7), Downs After Dark on Millionaires Row (June 15) and Wesleyan Day at Holiday World (July 21). Homecoming is the highlight event of the year and our 2019 celebration on campus and throughout Owensboro/Daviess County will be September 20-22. Visit www.kwc.edu/alumnievents for all upcoming opportunities to connect with Wesleyan and to register where applicable!
Louisville Third Thursday is introduced Following the success of Owensboro First Thursdays and with increased interest and activity in the Louisville area, the Alumni Association launched Louisville Third Thursdays in July 2018. The same formula of First Thursdays applied to these networkingstyle events in a relaxed atmosphere enjoying existing specials or extended discounts from the venues. Following feedback and assessment, Louisville Third Thursdays moved to every other month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. ET and have seen participation and Wesleyan connections built from a variety of eras and professional backgrounds. Check out our upcoming Third Thursdays from March onward!
Wesleyan Day at Holiday World For the second straight summer, Wesleyan alumni, families and friends enjoyed a day of thrill rides, waterslides and fun at Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari on July 29. A group of over 150 enjoyed a warm and sunny day with their families, and gathered together as one purple wave for a picnic lunch.
Annual Winchester Reunion Picnic We returned to our Winchester Campus home on the first Saturday in August for the annual Winchester Picnic. Alumni and guests gathered in the Spencer Gymnasium for a picnic lunch, shared memories from their days at the Winchester Campus and enjoyed an update on Kentucky Wesleyan College today. Front row (left to right): Carol (Combs) Daugherty ‘51, Elizabeth (Henderson) Bunch ‘52, Joanne (Fox) Ricketts ‘55, Peggy (Seale) Snowden ‘53, Roy Pickerill ‘75, Marcus Shearer ‘47, Imogene (Berryman) Haggard ‘46, Connie (Combs) Kincer Back row (left to right): Bruce Barrett Jr., Rev. Bruce Barrett ‘53, Rev. Lewis Ricketts ‘52, Pat Propst ‘51, Mildred (Cox) Hodson ‘50, LaDonna Koebel ‘89, Lauren Fields, Michael Shearer, Holly Rost, Jeff Martin, Jim Martin ‘50, Toby Martin ‘82
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Wesleyan Tees Off at Topgolf A pair of events made their debut in the summer of 2018 as Wesleyan teed it up at Topgolf in Nashville and Indianapolis. Alumni and guests enjoyed Topgolf games, food, drinks and a whole lot of fun at the two stops.
A Night in Cincinnati with the Reds A long rain delay, pre-game fireworks and eventually some baseball. A group of over 50 Wesleyan alumni and friends weathered the storm and stuck it out for a fun night at Great American Ball Park in September. Guests used the rain delay to visit with one another and took advantage of the unlimited popcorn, soft drinks and hot dog coupons. (Left to right): Joe Jurcisek ’87, Ron Combs ’86, Brian Hall ’87, Roy Pickerill ’75, Walter Lee ’75, Sean Combs ’84
Holocaust Survivor and Renowned Attorney Delivers Stanley Reed Lecture The College welcomed renowned attorney and Holocaust survivor John Rosenberg for the annual Stanley Reed Lecture in September. Students, faculty, alumni and guests from all over the Commonwealth filled Legacy Owensboro Church as Mr. Rosenberg delivered his talk on “Continuing The Wesleyan Way with Public Service.” Mr. Rosenberg reflected on his life as a small child in Nazi Germany and his career as an attorney and advocate for civil rights in America. “My mother, father, brother and I escaped that horror, and found a home in this country; so, we will always be eternally grateful that this country opened its doors to us,” Mr. Rosenberg said. “I truly believe you will not find a more gratifying and rewarding way to spend your lives than in service to others who need it.”
Sigma Kappa Reunion Sigma Kappa alumnae gathered for a reunion in Midway, Ky., in October. Front row (left to right): Brenda (Day) Seltman ’63, Phyllis (Stone) Church ’61, Vanda (Ball) Bell ’66, Anne (Mossbarger) Simcoe ’66, Midge Goeth ‘64. Back row (left to right): Beverly (Grant) McEnroe ’65, Alice Braasch ’65, Steve Morrison ’62, Mary Frances (Law) Morrison ’63.
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New Advancement Software
Enhances Advancement Outreach
by Eddie Kenny
Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge NXT® The Kentucky Wesleyan College Office of Advancement made a significant investment toward improving its connectivity with alumni and donors in the summer of 2018. The College switched its alumni and donor database to Blackbaud’s Raiser’s Edge NXT. For over 25 years, Raiser’s Edge has been a leader in developing fundraising software and facilitating relationship management for nonprofits. “We are extremely grateful to the College’s leadership and board of trustees for investing in this software and providing us an opportunity to better engage and communicate with our alumni and donors,” said Eddie Kenny, interim vice president of advancement. “As with any major database transition, we have had a learning curve. However, we have the best tool in the industry and all of its support to help us make continued progress toward providing our donors a rewarding and reliable experience.” While the platform itself will help to remove manual processes and numerous hours behind the scenes, it requires the help of our alumni and donors to keep us informed. In order to maximize the capabilities of the investment, here’s how you can help: ••Update your contact information so you don’t miss out on event invitations and engagement opportunities ••Keep your business and career information up to date so we can help connect you with others in your Wesleyan network, and possibly assist our students through speaker opportunities, the Panther Career Ally Program, etc. ••Let us know your campus involvement (athletic team, Greek organization, Wesleyan Singers, etc.) so you receive special communications specific to those groups You can update all of this information by clicking the “Update Your Alumni Profile” link at kwc.edu/alumni, emailing alumni@kwc.edu or calling us at (270) 852-3142.
Director of Advancement Services Comes Home to Wesleyan Wesleyan also welcomed home alumna Jaimie (Fike) Moore ’12 in November 2018 as director of advancement services. In her role, Moore oversees the alumni and donor database, including gift processing and acknowledgement, record updates, mailing and event invitation lists and more. Jaimie and her husband Ryan Moore ’12 are Wesleyan sweethearts, and she comes home to Wesleyan after serving as executive operations assistant at Girls Inc. In that position, Jaimie maintained all donor information and tracking/processing of gifts and was instrumental in acquiring and implementing a donor management system.
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Winter 2019
“Pleas” and Thank You by Mary (Turner) McDole ’79
While many students last summer relaxed by the pool or vacationed with family, life for junior student Kelsey Ray was a zoo — literally, the Louisville Zoo — where Kelsey spent her entire summer interning, working with animals one-on-one and learning more about a future career. A zoology major, Kelsey aspires to begin her career at the Louisville Zoo after graduation. She also dreams of one day working with Big Cat Rescue in Tampa, Fla. Kelsey flourished this summer with additional help from her mentor, 2010 Kentucky Wesleyan graduate and zoology major Stephanie Green. Green is a glacier run keeper at the Louisville Zoo, working with the polar bears. Kelsey and Stephanie became connected through the Panther Career Ally Program (CAP) last spring. It’s been a great match-up! Just ask Kelsey. “My mentor was an awesome resource to gain more information about the zoo, such as the do’s and don’ts, as well as how to get a job in the future.” When asked if she and her mentor, Stephanie, would continue their mentor/mentee relationship this year as well, Kelsey replied, “Absolutely, we still talk nearly every day!”
Stephanie Green ’10 and Kelsey Ray ’20
Senior Rakara McDowell, health sciences major, wants to go into nursing. Her mentor, Dr. BC Childress ’05, manager of Outpatient Pharmacy Services at Owensboro Health, helped her with advice and opportunities. “I accepted a position in guest relations at the Owensboro Health Regional Hospital while still a student,” said McDowell. “My mentor through Panther CAP helped open a door for me at the hospital, where now when I go into nursing school, I will get help with tuition. This is a huge benefit for my future education. The program has been very beneficial, my experience phenomenal, and I would recommend others to participate.” These are just two success stories flowing out of the Panther Career Ally Program. Thank you to all those alumni who have volunteered to share their time, expertise and advice with a student. The seeds of experience you plant into these students will no doubt empower them to step confidently into their futures upon graduation. That is The Wesleyan Way! Mentoring is positive for both mentors and mentees. People with mentors are more likely to be promoted. Mid- and senior-level colleagues who mentor someone entering the workforce expose them to opportunities perhaps previously unknown. Both mentors and mentees get exposed to new ideas and perspectives. Older colleagues can learn from the younger generation, grow networks and offer support and opportunities. Mentees can help mentors develop new talents. Lastly, mentors have an open door to pay forward opportunities granted earlier in their careers. Pleas: In the spring of 2018, 16 students requested and were matched with a mentor within the newly formed Panther CAP. The idea seems to be catching on, as well over 50 students applied this fall and more are submitting applications as news of the program’s benefits and success makes its way around campus. Many students are waiting on appropriate matches. We need more mentors. The program seeks to personally pair our student mentees with career allies based on field of study, career goals and similar Wesleyan experience. The Office of Alumni Relations earnestly seeks additional mentors to fill varied areas of interest ranging from zoology, sports management/fitness, pre-med, business, accounting, communications, religion and others. If you are passionate about your career, a Wesleyan student can benefit from your expertise. If you are an alumnus/a looking to share your perspectives and advice with a current student, Panther CAP is for you. If you have ever thought about how you could give back to your college in a meaningful way that could really make a difference, here is your chance. If you ever wished someone had advised you in making important career decisions early on or at least warned you of things not to do, here’s an opportunity for you to be that person to someone else. Visit the link below and read through the FAQ section, then complete an interest form. We look forward to finding a match for you and getting you started with your Panther CAP partnership. You can also contact the Office of Alumni Relations to get more information on time commitments, expectations, etc. Call (270) 852-3144 or email mary.mcdole@kwc.edu. kwc.edu/PantherCAP Winter 2019
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Class Notes Terry Woodward ’64 By LaDonna Koebel ’89 (Wesleyan Wednesday Feature – Dec. 12, 2018)
What do Ricky Skaggs and Tom T. Hall have in common with Terry Woodward ’64? They’re all newest members of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame! Woodward has made lasting contributions to the Owensboro community, the Bluegrass music industry and Kentucky Wesleyan College. But one of his most recent (and likely enduring contributions for years to come) can be seen in the Owensboro skyline - the new Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Left to right: LaDonna Koebel ’89, President Bart Darrell ’84 and Terry It’s really special to see someone who gives back to the Woodward ’64 at the 2018 President’s Circle Christmas Party hosted at the institutions that mean a lot to them, who selflessly give their time and passion to make incredible things happen. Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum Woodward is one of those people. I remember meeting him in college at the President’s house. He was energetic and passionate about his business, which had a presence in over two dozen states. Just being around him made people feel good and you could sense his enthusiasm (much like our president, Bart Darrell).
Woodward is the owner/president of Wax Works, Inc., a major video distributor, and president of Team Marketing, the largest holder of licenses for college sports video in the nation. Impressive. He is a proud Kentucky Wesleyan College alumnus and supporter of the College, and a long-time fan of Panther Athletics. The Health and Recreation Center on campus is named in his honor. He was inducted in the Alumni Hall of Fame in 2005 and the Kentucky Wesleyan Athletic Hall of Fame in 2014. He was recognized with the Distinguished Achievement Award by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2005. For his contributions to making the beautiful new Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum location a reality, he was inducted into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame in a surprise induction at the grand opening in October 2018. Congratulations, Terry, and thank you for giving back to the College and community you love. (LaDonna Koebel ’89 writes a “Wesleyan Wednesday” feature each week, sharing the stories and history of Kentucky Wesleyan alumni, friends and themes related to the College. Koebel is a member of the Kentucky Terry Woodward ’64 was a surprise inductee into the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame Wesleyan College Alumni Association Board of during the Bluegrass Museum Grand Opening celebration on Oct. 18, 2018 (Photo by Alan Warren, Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer) Directors.)
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Anniversary Former Kentucky Wesleyan President Dr. Wes Poling and wife Carol celebrated their 50th Anniversary on Aug. 17, 2018.
1963 Dr. Tom Meredith was one of seven to be inducted into the fourth class of the University of Mississippi School of Education Alumni Hall of Fame in June 2018. Meredith, who has served more than 46 years in higher education, earned his doctorate from the School of Education in 1971.
1965 Dr. Marshall Myers published “The Rhetoric of Lincoln’s Letters,” which traces the evolution of President Abraham Lincoln’s writing style through his writing of letters and explores the persuasive techniques Lincoln used to communicate to various audiences in his letters. Dr. Myers is the author of over 300 poems, short stories and popular and academic pieces. His latest books include “Great Civil War Stories of Kentucky,” “Neither Blue nor Gray” and “Only in Old Kentucky.” Retired and living in Richmond, Ky., he is president of the Madison County Civil War Roundtable, past president of the Eastern Kentucky University Retired Teachers and was appointed by Governor Steven L. Beshear to be a member of the Kentucky Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission.
1969 George Skiadas, owner of Famous Bistro in Owensboro, celebrated the restaurant’s 25th anniversary on June 1, 2018.
1978 Suzanne (Adelman) Oost and her husband, Greg, have moved on as nurses to another adventure. They have returned
to Alaska where they lived previously for five years. The couple is now located in Ketchikan. Most recently, Suzanne and Greg were living in Ft. Defiance, Ariz., on the Navajo reservation.
1984 Keith Cain, Daviess County (Ky.) sheriff, was named the National Sheriff of the Year by the National Sheriff’s Association. He received the Ferris E. Lucas Sheriff of the Year award in June 2018 in New Orleans, La.
1987 Harold Davis, head football coach at DeSales High School in Louisville, Ky., was named the 2018 Kentucky Football Coaches Association Class 2A District 4 Coach of the Year. DeSales has had an incredible record under Davis, including back-to-back state titles in 2013 and 2014 and reaching the semifinals in 2015. Davis is also a retired firefighter of 22 years.
1988 Mike Sprague was the official starter at the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Cross Country National Championship Nov. 17, 2017, at Angel Mounds in Evansville, Ind. Over the last decade, he has worked the national championships for Division I, II and III. He ran cross country and track from 1983 to 1988. He is the cross country coach and librarian at Henderson County High School.
1990 J. Todd Hall was the recipient of the Edward Jones A.F. McKenzie Award for his exceptional achievement in building client relationships. Hall’s financial services office is located in the Hikes Point area of Louisville, Ky.
1992 Mitch Major was promoted to AutoZone
senior vice president, Supply Chain, Customer Satisfaction. Major previously served as vice president, Commercial Support. He also currently serves on the Kentucky Wesleyan College Board of Trustees.
1994 Jamie Morris has been promoted to Owensboro Health Regional Hospital director of clinical support. Jamie earned her associate’s degree in nursing from Wesleyan. Marcia (Everly) Tomes was named the Daviess County Public Schools Kids First Elementary Teacher of the Year. Tomes is a primary teacher and interventionist at Southern Oaks Elementary School. Carrie (Jackson) Whitmer was named the Daviess County Public Schools Kids First High School Teacher of the Year. Whitmer serves as teacher leader for the Daviess County High School Math Department.
2000 Jami (York) Hernandez was named assistant vice president, Banking Center Manager at the Old National Bank branch in Clarksville, Ind., in the summer of 2018.
2003 Courtney Yerington was awarded Kentucky D.A.R.E. Officer of the Year for the 2017-18 school year. Officer Yerington was recognized during an afternoon assembly at Owensboro Middle School in August.
2006 Josh Basham was named the new principal of the Grayson County School District’s Alternative Education Center (AEC) prior to the start of the 2018-19 academic year. Winter 2019
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Class Notes Jennifer Hendricks and her husband, Robert Wright, welcomed their first child, a daughter, Karrington Sloane Wright, on Sept. 15, 2018. Jennifer was also recognized in the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer 2018 Reader’s Choice Awards, Best of Owensboro, as the Silver winner for Best Attorney. Sarah (Bell) Fuqua was enshrined into the Webster County Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2018 on Aug. 17, 2018. Katie (Bryant) Murphy is now a staff advocate at Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center.
2008 Heath Blandford was named the new clinical manager in the Owensboro Health Regional Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy in October. Heath has been a clinical pharmacist with Owensboro Health for more than six years. Corey Gant is now a lieutenant with the Owensboro Fire Department. He was recently pinned during a ceremony on Oct. 19. Gant is an eight-year veteran with OFD. Pictured with wife Alaina (Morris) Gant ’08. Lincoln Latham was named director of business development at Gorman Recruiting.
2009 Heather (Madewell) Clouse, a physician assistant, joined Owensboro Health in providing full-time care at the Henderson Healthplex Urgent Care. She brings 22
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over a half-decade of urgent/emergent care experience to help improve the health of the communities she serves. Shanna Settle earned a master’s in social work at University of Southern Indiana in May 2018.
2010 Brandon Cox returned home to Kentucky in Dec. 2018 as publisher of the Kentucky New Era. Jay Fallin, head football coach at Owensboro High School, was named the 2018 Kentucky Football Coaches Association Class 5A District 1 Coach of the Year. Chris Gendek joined the Owensboro Convention and Visitors Bureau staff as destination services director in September. Chris and his wife, Ashley (Braun) Gendek ’09, welcomed a baby boy, Wrigley, in May. Tory Stanley was engaged to Alicia Johnson on Aug. 29. Tory is a CPA and assurance supervisor with MCM CPAs and Advisors in Louisville, Ky. He has also joined the BIG Leadership Board, which partners with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana Board, where he is also a BIG (mentor for the last six years). Taylor West has been promoted to publisher at Tanner Publishing Co. in Owensboro. Taylor is a founding member of Tanner Publishing’s sister company, Tanner+West, and for the past five years, he served as art director. While
not his primary role, Taylor has worked extensively with the production of several regional/local magazines throughout his tenure at Tanner+West.
2011 John Kirkpatrick was named the head girls’ basketball coach at Daviess County High School prior to the 2018-19 academic year.
2012 Josh Eaves, under his artist name, Joshua Eavz, digitally released his first music project in November, “The Dyad: Prayer and a Promise.” The dual single contained two original songs, “Revive Me” and “Soar (Wait on Me),” and is available to download and stream from all major digital outlet stores and streaming services. To stay up to date on all things Joshua Eavz, visit his official website – https://www.eavzmusic.com. Jordan White and Grace Wainwright were married on Oct. 27, 2018, in Louisville, Ky. White was honored as Kentucky Wesleyan’s 2018 Outstanding Young Graduate at Homecoming, and is an associate in the Louisville office of Wyatt, Tarrant & Combs.
2015 Davey Murphy has been appointed as a new agent with Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) Mutual Insurance Company at Daviess County Farm Bureau – North Agency. In his new role, Murphy will offer a wide variety of insurance coverage in Daviess County through KFB Insurance.
2016 Will Roberts celebrated the ribbon cutting of his Edward Jones office in Greencastle, Ind., in the summer of 2018. Ciera Woods is now a human resources
In Memoriam generalist at Land O’Lakes Inc. in California. She earned her master’s in human resources and industrial relations from the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign in May.
2017 Jill Jones was named the new head coach of the Daviess County High School girls’ freshman basketball team. Jones served on the Kentucky Wesleyan women’s basketball coaching staff for the last two seasons. Jennifer Walker-Crawford is now a core assurance associate at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Charlotte, N.C.
2018 Sammy Holder was named the head baseball coach at his high school alma mater, Lewis County High School, in Vanceburg, Ky. Tara O’Shan joined Riney Hancock CPAs PSC as a staff I accountant in the Tax Services and the Audit and Assurance Services divisions of the firm. Rebekah Tivitt joined Riney Hancock CPAs PSC as a staff I accountant in the Client Accounting Services Division shortly after graduation from Wesleyan.
We love to share your stories! Please send Class Notes information for our next issue to the Office of Alumni Relations. We would like to include a photo, too. Please identify everyone, and include class year and maiden name, if applicable. We look forward to hearing from you. alumni@kwc.edu OR Office of Alumni Relations 3000 Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42301
We offer condolences on the passing of the following alumni and friends of Kentucky Wesleyan College: William Edward Barrass Margaret “Peggie” (Rees) Bastin Dr. Steve Beach Cynde (Hendrickson) Benson ’68 Tammy (Campbell) Bostick ’85 Richard Brunk ’61 Rev. Sam Clark Sr. ’52 Anna (Sudduth) Codell ’41 Paul Decker Dr. Bettie (Charles) Detwiler ’53 Dr. Lee A. Dew Kenneth Dowell ’84 Dr. Gary Drum Lloyd “Mac” Emge Doris (Eubanks) Estes Kenneth Wayne Frantz Nancy (Coons) Franklin ’48 Martha Gordon Foster Guess ’61 Katha (Wilhoite) Grocholski ’71 Frankie (Scott) Hager ’57 Ann (Cole) Hartley Jerrick Lane ’83
Bob Lyons Denise (Rearden) Mason ’87 Martin “Sonny” Mills Hallie McCloud ’45 Will McDonald ’00 Billy Mitchell Dr. Ben Murphy ’02 Sophie (Goolman) Osborne ’52 Thirlen Osborne ’43 Nathaniel Parsley JoAnn (Goodwin) Penrod ’58 David Pressnell ’88 Jerry Rhodes ’85 Jean (Sudduth) Richeson ’46 Dr. Billy I. Ross Dorothy (Barnes) Samuels ’45 Charles Shutt Thomas Small ’68 Elizabeth Anne (Cole) Sphar ’39 Robert K. Taylor ’55 Clay Willis ’49 Jackie Woodward
You may also submit class notes information online at kwc.edu/alumni Winter 2019
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Panther Athletics
Craig Yeast Named Head Football Coach
Former NFL and University of Kentucky Wide Receiver Craig Yeast, a former National Football League (NFL) player and AllSoutheastern Conference (SEC) wide receiver at the University of Kentucky, was introduced as the Panthers’ new head football coach on Dec. 3 and introduced to the community at a Dec. 5 press conference. “I am excited to welcome Craig Yeast, his wife Tori, and their family to Kentucky Wesleyan and the Owensboro community” said Director of Athletics Rob Mallory. “After a lengthy professional career, Craig has quickly established himself as a dynamic and rising star in the coaching ranks, and I am confident he is the right person to lead this program into a new era.” Yeast comes to Wesleyan after three years at Franklin College in Indiana where he served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. The Grizzlies produced the most prolific offense in NCAA Division III over the past three seasons. Yeast balanced the offense in 2018 as the Grizzlies averaged 225 rushing and 333 passing yards per game. “There is a tremendous opportunity to build an excellent football program at Kentucky Wesleyan and the fact that KWC is in my home state made this position more intriguing,” said Yeast. “Furthermore, spending time with Athletic Director Rob Mallory and understanding the vision he has for the culture of Wesleyan athletics gave me confirmation in believing a championship program can be built here. I love the Commonwealth of Kentucky, so being handed the keys to the Panthers football program is not something I take lightly. I am very blessed, honored and extremely excited for this opportunity. I am familiar with Owensboro, but I have not been here since 1994. Much has changed, so my family and I are looking forward to exploring and becoming a part of the Owensboro community.” In 2017, the Grizzly offense led the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) in yards per game (564.5), total passing yards (4,478), total offense (6,210 yards) and scoring (48.6 points per game). Nationally, Franklin’s offense finished Top 5 NCAA Division III in Total Offense (1st - 564.5 YPG) Passing Offense (1st – 407.1 YPG) and Scoring Offense (4th – 48.6 PPG). “Our plan is to move forward in a positive direction with the goal of developing a program that has a positive family-oriented culture of winning on and off the field,” added Yeast. “All players and coaches must realize the number one priority of the program is to earn a degree from Kentucky Wesleyan College. We will be men of our word, we will be accountable to one another, we will be enthusiastic to attack each day with an attitude of gratitude. We will aspire to develop leaders who do what is right on campus and in the community.” Yeast was a wide receiver with the New York Jets in the NFL after being drafted in the fourth round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1999. Yeast also played four professional seasons with the Hamilton Tiger Cats (2003-2006) of the Canadian Football League. He concluded his collegiate career with the most receptions (208) in SEC history and still ranks inside the conference’s all-time leaders in receiving yards (9th), catches (5th), and touchdowns (8th). Yeast ranks as Kentucky’s all-time receiver with 208 catches, 2,899 receiving yards and 28 touchdowns. He and his wife, Tori, have been married for 19 years and have two children, 19-year-old Craig II “Russ,” and 16-year-old Kiyah.
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Winter 2019
Athletic Hall of Fame Welcomes Class of 2018
by Roy Pickerill ’75
Magical best describes the 2018 Athletic Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony when five Panther greats and the Team of Distinction, the 1973 NCAA Championship team, returned home for their place in the Kentucky Wesleyan College history books. The weekend started with the championship team gathering together for the first time in 45 The Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2018 years. The laughter and Left to right: Paul Bates ’95, Tom Hobgood ’69, Glenn Young ’58, Janice (Johnson) Martin ’92 and Mary fun began at hotel check (Pfeifer) Brehm ’00 in when most of the Panthers had to reintroduce themselves to each other since everyone looked a tad different. The 2018 Class represented the ’50s, ’60s, ’80s, ’90s and 2000. The surprise appearance of a Fathead made the night even more memorable. The first inductee, Glenn Young ’58, served as the public address announcer of the Sportscenter and Steele Stadium for a total of 58 years, and it all happened because he talked too much for Coach Robert “Bullet” Wilson in a freshman health class in 1954. Young also performed as the assistant athletic director for 19 years. The next honoree only spent approximately two days per week on the practice field, due to classes and labs, which is very rare for a scholar-athlete to earn national recognition. Paul Bates ’95, an offensive guard, received two All-America honors on the gridiron and two Academic All-America awards in the classroom. He also captured the College’s highest honor, the Order of Oak and Ivy. Before the introduction of our next inductee, the “Fathead”, Mary (Pfeifer) Brehm ’00, bobbled
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Panther Athletics
up and down from her children to bring a smile from everyone. She stills holds the record as the Panthers’ only fourtime All-Great Lakes Valley Conference tennis selection in 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999. Brehm compiled a career record 39 wins and 28 GLVC wins. The most emotional speech of the night came from Tom Hobgood ’69 as he looked in front of the crowd with over half of his three-time NCAA basketball champion teammates coming back from the Deep South and the Midwest to honor him. The four-year starter at guard also played on one NCAA Third Place team and was named to the 1969 NCAA All-Finals Tournament Team. The fifth member of the class held the distinction as a pioneer and trailblazer in women’s basketball in both the early days and modern times. Janice (Johnson) Martin ’82 became the first player to reach the 1,000/600 career milestones with 1,232 points and 631 rebounds. After 36 years, she still holds the single-game rebound record with 24. The Team of Distinction, the 1973 NCAA Basketball Champions, brought back 15 of 21 players, managers, coaches and cheerleaders. Returning were David Allenson, Larry Dugan, Fred Eggert, Grant Lamar, Walter Lee, Mike Sergent, Mike West, Mike Wood, Roger Zornes, manager Roy Pickerill, assistant coach Shafe Boles and head coach Bob Jones plus cheerleaders Ric Holladay, Lynn (Braun) Sollman, Linda (Osborn) Son.
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Winter 2019
"Best Small Colleges in the Nation" - College Consensus "Best Colleges and Universities in Kentucky" at No. 2 - College Consensus "Best Regional College" Â in the South at No. 13 - U.S. News & World Report "Best Baccalaureate Colleges" in the Nation at No. 15 - Washington Monthly "Best in the Southeast" for 15th consecutive year - Princeton Review "Best Online Bachelor's Program" - U.S. News & World Report
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2018 President’s Circle KWC Presidents Circle.pdf
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The President’s Circle is a prestigious annual giving society at Kentucky Wesleyan College. Alumni and friends who make an annual gift of $1,000 or more receive regular communication from President Barton D. Darrell, complimentary tickets to the President’s Gala, exclusive event invitations and additional benefits. For more information or to join the President’s Circle, visit kwc.edu/pc or call 270-852-3460. The Young Alumni President’s Circle recognizes alumni of the past 10 years who invest at least $100 a year since their graduation. For more information or to join the Young Alumni President’s Circle, visit kwc.edu/yapc or call 270-852-3460. The following is a list of all donors who invested at least $1,000 in Wesleyan during the 2018 calendar year. Because of the timing of this publication, all President’s Circle and Young Alumni President’s Circle members for the 2019 fiscal year (June 1, 2018 – May 31, 2019) will be listed in the next issue. We appreciate your support!
$50,000+ Estate of Nancy (Coons) Franklin ’48 George and Gertrude Greenwell Estate of Dr. Alberta (Chapman) Hall ’53 David ’59 and Marcia Hocker Michael E. Horn ’75 Estate of Isma B Saloshin $25,000 - $49,999 Dr. Ernest W. Abernathy ’55 J. Rogers Badgett Sr. Foundation Bracken and Maria Darrell Lydia Dorman ’82 Sherry (Miller) ’83 and Joe Feldpausch Jim Griffin ’86 Kentucky Annual Conference United Methodist Church Dr. W.L. Magnuson and Kirsten Ahnell Republic Bank Stephen C. Snyder ’71 $10,000 - $24,999 American Patriot Getaways AutoZone Anna Babb Boardwalk Pipeline Partners Joe and Vicki Bowen 28
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Canteen Properties LLC Dr. H. Randall Capps ’57 Carson-Myre Charitable Foundation The Catholic Foundation Paul W. Chellgren Ernie and Martha Davis Deborah (Carter) ’79 and Ted Dearing Ray & Kay Eckstein Charitable Trust Wayne ’69 and Cathy Foster Greater Milwaukee Foundation Inc. Sonny ’67 and Christy (Hocker) Hall Morris and Dorothy Haskins Foundation Holston Conference United Methodist Church Foundation Inc. Michael E. Horn Family Foundation Inc. B.J. Killian Foundation Donna (O’Bryan) Larkin ’79 Magee Christian Education Foundation Mitch ’92 and Laurie (Weida) Major ’92 Owensboro Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau Julianne W. Perry Buddy ’79 and Puff Rogers James and Beverly Rogers Foundation Dr. Charlie ’62 and Margaret (Heltsley) Schertzinger ’59
Schwab Charitable Fund Specialty Foods Group, Inc. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co. Jeff ’72 and Susan White Wright Brothers, LLC Fred ’80 and Melinda Wright $5,000 - $9,999 Benjamin H. ’59* and Linda (Huffaker) Abbott ’59 Anonymous Back Alley Musicals Bill ’80 and Peggy (Hicks) Davis ’82 Eli Lilly & Company Bill ’68 and Mary Ann (Tippin) Foree ’68 Edna Horrell Independence Bank Walter Lee ’75 Tom ’79 and Donna Major Matthew ’08 and Dr. Elizabeth (Mauzy) Martin ’08 Bob ’78 and Mary (Turner) McDole ’79 Dr. Thomas C. Meredith ’63 Dr. Judy (Watkins) Mills ’73 Don Moore Merrylen (Wesley) Sparks ’57 A.J. ’71 and Susan Smith Joyce S. Taylor Jack T. Wells ’77 Drs. Barbara (Magnuson) ’88 and Michael Woodward Yager Materials Marilyn and William Young Charitable Foundation $2,500 - $4,999 Anonymous Connie and Gordon Barnett Chevron Matching Employee Funds Martha F. Clark James and Mary Crawford Dawson Machine Shop Inc
Dr. Paula Dehn Dr. Jack J. Early Elder Pipe & Supply Co., Inc. Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund First United Methodist Church of Campbellsville Judith A. Ford ’61 Jeff ’83 and Dede Foreman Alison C. Forte Kelly Frank ’96 Rev. Tom ’78 and Cheryl (Spaulding) Grieb ’79 Drs. Troy ’93 and Carolyn (Haynes) Haleman ’92 Drs. Corey ’00 and Ashley Johnson Dr. Arba L. Kenner ’74 Kentucky United Methodist Foundation Inc. Dennis ’65 and Brenda Kirtley Dr. William ’58 and Janice Lacefield Miles and Margaret Mallette Dr. Joseph ’79 and Lynn Morton William and Kaye Munday Novartis Roger A. Parker ’69 PHP, Inc. Rev. Donald ’65 and Patricia (Webster) Rankin ’55 John and Beth Reimbold Settle Memorial United Methodist Church Hon. Phillip J. and Audrey Shepherd Don Stroud Swedish Match Texas Gas Drs. Brandon ’01 and Andrea (Hardison) Tackett ’01 Toyota Dealer Match Program Brent Waltrip Craig ’81 and Stacy Waltrip $1,001 - $2,499 American Online Giving Foundation Rev. Bruce E. Barrett ’53 Albert ’88 and Lisa (Eisenmenger) Bell ’89 Winter 2019
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2018 President’s Circle (continued) Mike ’78 and Cathy (Meeks) Bishop ’78 Bob ’81 and Ginger Burns Mark A. Carroll ’88 Jeff ’89 and Gretchen Chenault Dr. BC ’05 and Hope Childress Evelyn Clark Charles E. Cobb ’56 Dr. John R. Combs Pat ’73 and Lorraine Corkran Fran (Newell) ’78 and John Denham Sandra L. (Schmidt) ’57 and William Dickinson Anna Dixon-Skidmore Margaret F. Driskill Dr. James R. Dunlop Jr. ’84 Rev. Tom ’68 and Susan Eblen Estate of Rev. William W. Bowling ’56 First United Methodist Church of Henderson General Electric Foundation Rev. Mark ’78 and Cheryl (Smith) Gibbons ’79 Ray ’85 and Shannon Harper Hess Corporation Robert D. Hill ’68 Jay ’11 and Anna Ivey Linda (Carver) Kingsley ’62 M. Allen ’60 and Penny Kirtley Virginia S. Kleine Scott ’87 and Penny (Mills) Kramer ’86 Dr. Bill and Lane Langford Linda Major Charles R. Martin Larry ’64 and Lamone Mayfield Network For Good Dennis L. Newberry II Rev. Amy (Coleman) Noble ’93 Jean W. Nofsinger Randy ’64 and Jean (Taylor) Owen ’63 Owensboro District United Methodist Church Dr. Mark ’78 and Linda Perko Roy ’75 and Margaret (Stinnette) Pickerill ’75
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Winter 2019
Dr. Wes and Carol Poling Randall ’66 and Sharon Raskin Greg ’93 and Jamie Risch Betty G. Rush Carl and Jean Saalwaechter Chuck ’72 and Nancy (King) Schmeal ’71 Megan (Evans) ’03 and Dr. David Schulte Brenda (Day) Seltman ’63 Dr. Jay ’85 and Marian (Helm) Smith ’85 Christie (Kell) Stumpf ’69 Steve and Kendra Sutton Patricia A. Talbort Sam ’97 and Leigha Taylor Dr. James ’54 and Shirley (White) Thurmond ’70 Towers Chapel Church Michael F. Wade CPA ’80 Dr. David ’72 and Sharon (Gregory) Watkins ’69 Robert ’60 and Beulah Wilson Sarah (Williams) Williams ’60 Michael and Meaghan Wolfe Worthington Chapel Church Joe Wright Richard ’57 and Nancy (Svara) Zimmerman ’58 $1,000 Susan (Hilliard) Adair ’90 W. Steve Anderson ’66 Patrick M. Boggs ’97 Debra L. Bunger M.D. ’79 Dr. Harold ’60 and Patricia (Clark) Burton ’61 Gary Braswell Dale ’77 and Regina Carden Greg and Dana Catron Hershell Cave Jr. ’61 Roger L. Clark ’63 Sam R. Clark Jr. ’80 Noel ’81 and Brenda Clayton Community Foundation of Louisville Nancy ’76 and Dr. Henry Connor
Sally (Allen) ’67 and Don Crenshaw Bob Darrell ’84 Pat Dawson DBA Delta Company Reunion Janna (Duncan) ’87 and Mike DeMarsh Jamie Duvall ’90 Ebelhar Whitehead, PLLC Doug ’65 and Norma Everly Janet and Keith Fingerhut Kenneth E. Foster Fraternal Order of Eagles Yellow Banks Aerie Joyce “Anita” (Simmons) Freer ’59 Steve and Trisha Frey Marcia (Fowler) Garland ’67 Greenwell-Chisholm Printing Company John R. Gregory James ’63 and Judith Hancock Arthur and Debra Harreld Rob ’83 and Holly (Cecil) Hast ’90 Jami (York) ’00 and Will Hernandez Beverly B. Hemphill Darrell and Denise Higginbotham Ray Hutchison ’61 Kelsey Jarboe ’14 Neil ’62 and Judy Jesse Dr. Ellis B. Johnson ’60 James Johnson ’55 Bill ’62 and Gerry (Beard) Jones ’62 Brian K. Jones ’83 Ken-Tron Manufacturing Inc. Kentucky USA Wrestling Colette Keyser ’89 and Jerome Terrell Lee ’84* and Bettie Kincaid Ann Kincheloe Drew and Gail Kirkland Ed ’93 and Dr. Jodi (Parks) Krahwinkel ’93 Nancy (Luckett) ’74 and Raymond Kramer Lifesong Properties, LLC Dr. Frances Lucas
Dr. Karen (Gurwell) ’91 and Scott Lutz Rev. Chris B. ’74 and Virginia Madison Barry ’65 and Mollie (Dinwiddie) McGaw ’67 Dr. Jerry ’60 and June Miller James E. Moore Dr. and Mrs. William C. Morris Jesse and Helen Mountjoy Flora J. Norsworthy ’73 Owensboro Lions Club Dr. Ken ’57 and Rhoda (Gillespie) Peters ’55 Ken ’75 and Patty (Steward) Pernisek ’78 Scott Pickrell Michael ’78 and Amy (Gilliam) Pike ’79 Logan Porter ’08 Harrison ’11 and Adair Price Public Life Foundation of Owensboro, Inc. Dr. Ray C. Purdom and Diane King-Purdom Riney Hancock CPAs PSC Robert T. Robinson Rev. Charles T. Rogers ’59 Richard ’67 and Barbara (Austin) Romer ’65 Joe F. Roop ’56 Foster J. Sanders Jr. and Jane M. Sanders Keith ’65 and Elissa Sanders Keith and Vickie Sharber Sports Tutor Inc. Suzanne (Tack) Staffieri ’68 Dr. Rollin H. ’61 and Ann Tarter Rick and Liz Ann Thompson Michael H. Uebelhor ’70 Jeannette (Sago) ’67 and Dr. Drew Ward Kenneth Whitfield Sally H. Wood *Deceased
Winter 2019
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NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID OWENSBORO, KY 42301 PERMIT #398
3000 Frederica Street Owensboro, KY 42301