Review - McPherson College Magazine, Spring 2023

M

Bulldog Baseball celebrates it’s first-ever KCAC Tournament Championship. See Athletics recap on page 10.

Through participation, students can learn valuable leadership lessons, according to

THE

Two McPherson College Board of Trustee members with decades of experience in student affairs believe a small campus provides fertile ground for leadership.

KANSAS

For nearly 10 years, the college has partnered with the KLC to implement its leadership philosophy and tackle some of the college’s biggest challenges.

Michael P. Schneider ‘96 president

Abbey Archer-Rierson ‘16 chief of staff

Josh Daume director of athletics

Amanda Gutierrez executive vp and provost

Christi Hopkins vp for admissions

Marty Sigwing ’16 executive director of operations

Brenda Stocklin-Smith ‘16 director of human resources

Carol Summervill vp for finance

Rick Tuxhorn ’16 director of endowment and special projects

Erik Vogel ‘98 vp for advancement

171 students graduate in Class of 2023

McPherson College conferred Master of Education, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees to 171 students at the 135th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at McPherson Stadium.

Rod Gieselman, professor of business at McPherson College, was the commencement speaker. Professor Gieselman has taught in the MC business department for 20 years. Students in his investments course manage a portion of the college’s endowment that consistently out-earns market averages and has grown from an

Olivia Smith, the senior class representative, and Professor Vicki Schmidt, associate professor of education, also addressed the class.

The commencement ceremony concluded with Dr. Michael Schneider, president of McPherson College, who thanked for the students for making it a great day

“As you scatter out into the world, remember your degree is a milestone, but just the beginning of the expectations you have now as a graduate of McPherson

initial $200,000 to $550,000. In his address, he encour aged the Class of 2023 to continue developing.

“Every day going forward, you will continue to develop who you are, your perspectives, beliefs, empa thy, and character,” he said. “The process of becoming a whole person is a lifelong process. Hopefully, McPher son College has pushed you to continue developing in a positive direction.”

College,” he said. “This campus will change over the next several years, but don’t forget to come home.”

Names of the graduating class of 2023 and the commencement video can be found at:

www.mcpherson.edu/graduation

Research Powerhouse Teams Up With McPherson College To Expand Impact Of Student Debt Project

McPherson College partnered with RTI International on an in-depth study and analysis of its pioneering Student Debt Project, one of the key initiatives supported by the $500 million double-match estate commitment announced by the college. The research project will advance the Student Debt Project and position McPherson College to expand its impact.

RTI International is an independent, nonprofit research institute with a staff of 6,000 working in more than 90 countries, with headquarters in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. RTI examined the key features of the college’s Student Debt Project and its outcomes to date, resulting in a white paper that outlined potential opportunities and guided the college’s efforts to refine the model for both McPherson College and other institutions.

“We know that the Student Debt Project is having a positive impact on McPherson College students by engaging them in financial literacy mentoring,” President Michael Schneider said. “Our students are making substantial progress toward decreasing and, in some cases, eliminating student debt at graduation. RTI will provide an important independent analysis while at the same time suggesting ways that our Student Debt Project can benefit students beyond McPherson College.”

The college hopes to build on its experience and expand its work toward decreasing and eliminating college debt by creating a National Center on Student Debt Reduction. RTI recommends certain activities to enhance the Student Debt Project at McPherson College while positioning the college to take a more significant national leadership role in lowering student debt.

In the five years since the project began, McPherson College has incrementally decreased its average student debt at graduation, achieving one of the lowest averages among four-year colleges and universities in Kansas. At the start of the 2022-2023 academic year, half of all students were participating in the project. The project combines financial literacy education, work experience, and mentorship with matching funds in a pay-as-you-go program. In addition to the benefits students receive, the college sees greater student retention of those who participate in the program.

“The Student Debt Project impacts students after graduation by helping decrease the amount of money they could be paying into their 20s, 30s, and beyond,” said Taylor Bohannon, a junior from Belle Plain, Kan. “The financial match for every payment you make is a huge help that adds up over time.”

According to President Schneider, McPherson College is committed to minimizing student reliance on loans. “The project is an idea that evolved from our Community by Design strategic plan, and it is making education affordable without unnecessary debt. We are grateful that the commitment made to the college’s endowment will ensure that this program continues for future generations of students.”

Dear McPherson College Alumni, Friends, and Family,

A legacy of leadership at McPherson College is the direct result of living our mission every day. Developing whole persons through scholarship, participation, and service is a collective endeavor. It is supported by the important mentorships that students and alumni build with faculty and sta to create an environment where everyone is encouraged to practice leadership. We have always known that when we work as a community on any challenge, we have a better chance of finding a solution.

In 2014, we put a leadership framework in place by partnering with the Kansas Leadership Center (KLC). The KLC framework gave our campus community a common language and approach to look for solutions to adaptive challenges facing the college. We used the framework to diagnose and implement actions to improve student retention, develop two strategic plans to guide our future, and we see the practices at work across campus in our daily routines.

Today, McPherson College students lead in various ways on and o campus. In the classroom, students initiate meaningful conversations that inform their decisions. Student-athletes are not only leading on their teams but also collectively on important policy decisions. And more students than ever are serving as o cers and members in the campus clubs and organizations. Students regularly find ways to practice leadership o -campus by volunteering in the community. This issue of Review focuses on leadership. Current students and recent graduates discuss their leadership experiences on campus, and alumni and board of trustee members describe why practicing leadership is crucial for college students. KLC President and CEO Kaye Monk Morgan explains the philosophy behind its leadership framework. I am proud that McPherson College provides an environment for students to practice leadership, and continues sending Bulldogs out into the world with the skills necessary to lead and take on tough challenges in their communities.

Michael P. Schneider President, McPherson College

We Made It!

McPherson College’s classic 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S is the college’s first car restored by its students to be accepted in the nation’s most prestigious car event.

A vision, 10 years in the making, has come true for students, alumni, and McPherson College Automotive Restoration sta . The 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S Cabrio let, restored by students, has been accepted by the presti gious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and will be shown there on August 20.

“Congratulations to the McPherson College students for having their car accepted to Pebble Beach,” said comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno. Leno’s support 20 years ago was the turning point for the program when it pivoted from an associate’s to a bachelor’s degree. “I am proud to be associated with the college. Much like art historians who clean and repair the works of the Renais sance, the young men and women at McPherson College are doing it with automobiles, recreating abilities and techniques long forgotten, and they’ll make a good living doing it. Our hobby and heritage are safe in their hands.”

The Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is the oldest Concours in the United States and one of the world’s most prestigious gatherings of rare and antique automobiles. Prized collector cars compete each year for Best of Show, the most coveted award in the automotive industry. The Concours Selection Committee spends weeks vetting each entry, narrowing its selection down to the top classic cars in the world, which are invited to show.

“We set a bold vision 10 years ago to show a car at Pebble Beach, and I was confident our students and sta could attain it,” said Amanda Gutierrez, provost and vice president of automotive restoration. “The goal was to get invited to compete at Pebble Beach, but there is a significant process that makes that happen, especially at a small college with students working outside of class hours. This project has been a valuable learning experience for our students as they study toward their bachelor’s degree in automotive restoration. It was intense work requiring exceptional commitment, and I am extremely proud of them.”

After an exhaustive search for the right car, work on the project began and has incorporated classroom curricula, expert guest lectures, and senior capstone experiences. The restoration was completed by teams of student interns who worked throughout the restoration. Brian Martin, director of automotive restoration projects, supervises the student team.

“When we set out to do this, we knew it was going to be a long-term commitment,” Martin said. “It is a complete,

McPherson College has a long history of student participation at Pebble Beach, dating back to 2008 when the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and Pebble Beach Company Foundation established scholarships honoring Formula One World Champion and famed restorer Phil Hill. Over the years, more than 25 McPherson College students have earned scholarships from Pebble Beach.

Pebble Beach Company Foundation scholarship recipients not only attend the event and shadow the judges, they also have been part of panel discussions, prepared and presented cars for the field, and attended numerous additional events during the week. However, this August will mark the first time the college will show a classic vehicle fully restored by its students.

“It’s a remarkable accomplishment,” said McPherson College President Michael Schneider. “Since the project began, nearly every student in the auto restoration program has been exposed to the restoration through classes, workshops, or as part of an internship team. For some of them, getting a chance to work on this project was why they decided to attend McPherson College. This achievement will positively impact our students and program for years. Managing this project was an enormous undertaking, and I commend the individuals, especially Brian Martin, who helped mentor our students through this process. Our friends at Paul Russell and Company and the Mercedes Benz Classic Center, were excellent advisors on the project. I also thank Jay Leno, whose early and consistent support over the years has helped us flourish and reach Pebble Beach.”

Project leader Brian Martin introduces the current team of students with the 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S at the CARS Club Car Show.

Nation’s Top Automotive Industry Research Authority Partners With McPherson College Auto Restoration To Develop Mobility, Engineering Program

McPherson College has partnered with the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) — considered the most respected research source in the automotive industry — on a study exploring the future of transportation and mobility to create a new engineering, design, and mobility program building on its existing Automotive Restoration program. Creating a national center for the future of engineering, design, and mobility is one of the key initiatives supported by the college’s $500 million double-match estate commitment.

The CAR study examines a wide range of approaches to the future of mobility, including electrification, mobility ecosystem, urban planning, roadway design, and more, to create a dynamic curriculum for the new program.

“For decades, the Auto Restoration program at McPherson College has been offering a one-of-a-kind experience for students interested in the history and hands-on restoration of classic cars,” President Michael Schneider said. “We want to build from this unique program and offer students more opportunities based on the future of transportation and mobility. CAR will help ensure we move in the right direction.”

CAR, a non-profit organization based in Ann Arbor, Mich., is focused on the future direction of the global automotive industry. Its mission is to inform and advise through independent research, education, and dialogue, enabling a more viable and sustainable automotive ecosystem. CAR collaborates closely with automakers, suppliers, industry associations, government, non-profit, labor organizations, and educational institutions to provide leading, thought-provoking, and impactful research.

CAR specializes in connecting the automotive industry needs to what academic curriculums require to match those needs. This includes analyzing degree programs, evaluating student preparedness, and assessing facilities, classrooms, and equipment.

“CAR engages with academic institutions, automotive industry leaders, and municipal organizations to understand the required skills and competencies of the future workforce,” said Alan Amici, President and CEO of CAR. “Our findings will enable McPherson to create an academic program that meets the needs of students and employers in a rapidly changing environment. Today, there is a strong need for students to be involved with a company or project that benefits society. McPherson College recognizes this and values strong community engagement. We are excited about working with McPherson College to bring all these components together in developing this new program.”

Rob Walton Foundation creates MC Scholarship Fund

McPherson College announced the creation of an endowed scholarship fund for students pursuing a degree in automotive restoration. The Rob Walton Scholarship Fund will focus on attracting and retaining the best students in the college’s unique automotive restoration program.

The $1 million gift from the Rob and Melani Walton Foundation will be supplemented by the two-for-one donor match announced by the college, resulting in $3 million for the McPherson College endowment. The anonymous double-match estate commitment of $500 million is the largest in the history of any liberal arts college in the United States.

“This grant helps us fulfill our mission of being the center of excellence for students serious about automotive restoration,” said McPherson College President Michael Schneider. “Students completing their degree from our program are the skilled craftsmen, technicians, historians, curators, managers, marketing and communication persons, and leaders necessary to preserve the classic car industry.”

The Walton Foundation joins other industry leaders and car enthusiasts in providing student scholarships for the program and continues the significant contributions toward the $500 million match presented by McPherson College. The program has attracted the attention of philanthropists such as Richard Lundquist, who donated a 1972 Ferrari 365GTB/4 Daytona to the program and $50 million toward the endowment match.

“Driving and collecting vintage automobiles is a personal passion,” said Rob Walton. “We’re pleased to contribute to educating the next generation of car restorers and making college more affordable for McPherson students.”

McPherson College is committed to helping students graduate with little to zero student debt. The Student Debt Project utilizes financial literacy, mentoring, and matching funds to assist students working while attending college. So far, students in the program have reduced their projected debt at graduation by $12,000. Scholarships, like the Rob Walton Scholarship Fund, work with the Student Debt Project to help minimize the need for student and family educational loans.

The CAR study will include benchmarking existing engineering programs at other colleges and universities, analyzing the engineering skills needed to succeed and lead in the future mobility ecosystem, and making recommendations for curriculum. CAR will also consider additional certification programs to supplement and enhance the new program. McPherson College will receive a final report this summer. www.mcpherson.edu/auto-restoration

Laura Eells

Dr. Laura Eells, professor emerita, passed away on April 29, 2023. She was a member of the McPherson College faculty for 26 years, retiring in May 2022. For most of her years as a full-time sociology instructor, she served either as chair of the Department of Behavioral Sciences or as chair of the Division of Social Sciences. She also served as provost and dean of the faculty from 2002 to 2009. Dr. Eells was also an assistant professor of sociology at Wichita State University and the executive director of the Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center.

Dr. Eells received the 2013 Who’s Who Professor of the Year award. Her commitment to students was extraordinary. One of her most lasting marks on the Department of Behavioral Sciences is revising the program’s research curriculum, which instituted additional coursework in research methods and scientific writing. As a result, numerous seniors have presented at the Midwest Sociological Society annual meeting.

Jeanne Smith

Dr. Smith passed away on March 13, 2023, in McPherson. She received her Ed.D. from Kansas State University and was the director of publicity and later professor of English at McPherson College. She wrote the book “Refugees” and edited “Child Tra cking in Asia.” She co-hosted 30 international trips with her husband, Dr. Herb Smith, to 30 countries. Her lifelong passion for social justice led her to start libraries in Ethiopia, teac English to the Pygmies of Rwanda, and teach former untouchables at a graduate school in India.

This spring, the Center for Caring, Empowerment, and Peace Initiatives in Nigeria named and dedicated its new administrative building in Jos after Dr. Jeanne Smith, professor emerita. This facility will be used as a therapy center, particularly for the girls and women abducted by the Boko Haram. There was also a special garden named after her and a memorial service. Most recently a baby girl born in that area was named "Jeanne."

review MCPHERSON COLLEGE MAGAZINE

Remembering

Professors Laura Eells & Jeanne Smith

IN MEMORIAM

Jonathan Frye, professor of natural science, along with former students and collaborators, published an article in the journal Acta Científica: Una revista transdisciplinaria de Puerto Rico y el Caribe (AC-PuR&C) regarding the forest ecology research project in Puerto Rico. The baseline data provided because of the work done by Dr. Frye and others will be beneficial in the ongoing study of future hurricanes' impact in the forested area studied in Puerto Rico. Of value will be its use in measuring post-hurricane recovery in the subtropical dry forest. The research also enabled McPherson College students to be part of a research experience on a global level.

Kirk MacGregor, associate professor of philosophy and religion, participated in the American Academy of Religion Annual Meeting, where his book “Paul Tillich and Religious Socialism: Towards a Kingdom of Peace and Justice” (2021) was the subject of a book panel in which he responded to three prominent reviewers. Their assessments of the book and his response were published in the Bulletin of the North American Paul Tillich Society. He was also elected co-chair of the Tillich: Issues in Theology, Religion, and Culture Unit of the American Academy of Religion. At the American Academy of Religion Annual Meeting, he also presented the paper “The Power of Religious Socialism to Combat Global Climate Catastrophes.” At the Society of Biblical Literature Annual Meeting, he presented the paper “The Ambivalent Status of Numbers 5:11-31 among Pro-Choice Advocates.” At the Evangelical Philosophical Society Annual Meeting, he presented the paper “An Intuitionist Defense of Divine Supercomprehension.” He moderated the Church History: General Studies session at the Evangelical Theological Society Annual Meeting.

Vicki Schmidt, associate professor of education, along with seniors Delani List and Alexis Grattan, co-presented a session titled “Book Tasting: Sampling Diverse Perspectives in Children’s Literature” at the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network conference in Topeka during the spring semester.

Herb Smith, professor emeriti of philosophy and religion, will present at the United Methodist Bible Conference in Pennsylvania on "War and Peace - the New Testament Age" and "Daniel & Apocalypticism" this summer. Also, his book "Angels and Demons" will be published soon.

Kerri Snell, assistant professor of English, had her poem "Monument" accepted for publication in the Relief: A Journal of Art and Faith.

Tenure & Promotion

• Prof. April Counts granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor of Education.

• Prof. Lindsey Godfrey granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor of Business.

• Dr. Julia Kuttler granted tenure and promoted to Associate Professor of Communication.

• Dr. Norman Hope granted tenure and promoted to Professor of Business.

• Prof. Nathan Pollard promoted to Associate Professor of Digital Media.

• Dr. Dustin Wilgers promoted to Professor of Biology.

www.mcpherson.edu/directory

MC Becomes First Kansas College To Join The Green Chemistry Commitment

McPherson College became the first college in Kansas to adopt the Green Chemistry Commitment by registering with Beyond Benign, the official partner of the American Chemical Society’s Green Chemistry Institute. The Green Chemistry Commitment is a program for colleges and universities that supports educators and students to approach chemistry from a green perspective to solve problems in the 21st century.

Manjula Koralegedara, professor of chemistry, began introducing green chemistry practices to McPherson College in 2014 after attending a workshop at the University of Oregon organized by the American Chemical Society’s Green Chemistry Institute.

“The concepts clicked with me,” Professor Koralegedara said. “Usually, we only hear about chemicals when they are associated with bad events, but in reality, we can’t live without chemical products. Green chemistry explores how we can achieve the same results while reducing or eliminating the use of hazardous substances. Early integration of green chemistry concepts into college curriculum prepares students for the future and gives our graduates an advantage when looking into careers.”

Green chemistry is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances. This approach requires an open and interdisciplinary view of material and product design, applying the principle that it is better to consider waste and hazard prevention options during the design and development phase rather than disposing of, treating, and handling waste and hazardous chemicals after a process or material has been developed.

Implementing green practices has had an overall positive impact on the natural science program, according to Dr. Jonathan Frye, professor of natural science and chair of the department. Waste disposal costs and water usage have been reduced, and students are becoming more conscious of their actions beyond the classroom. The natural science program has also incorporated green chemistry into its curriculum.

“As I teach the principles of green chemistry, I have seen students change their habits,” Koralegedara said. “From something as simple as using a metal water bottle instead of single-use plastic bottles shows they are conscious about what they are doing and the impact they have on our environment.”

While Professor Koralegedara is pleased with the results of green chemistry processes in the natural science program, she would like to support efforts campuswide. She is considering how other programs could implement some of the practices. She is a member of the American Chemical Society and chair-elect for the Wichita local section.

Dr. Matt Skillen Joins McPherson College As Assistant Provost and Dean of Faculty

Dr. Matt Skillen joined the college as assistant provost and dean of faculty. In this position, Dr. Skillen will work closely with the provost and others on campus to align academic priorities with the college’s strategic plan, Community by Design 2.0.

“It is an honor to be named the assistant provost and dean of faculty at McPherson College,” Dr. Skillen said. “My family and I are excited to join the McPherson community, and I look forward to working alongside my new colleagues.”

Dr. Skillen served in various roles at Elizabethtown College for the last 14 years. As the R.W. Schlosser Professor of English and the Dean of Faculty and Associate Provost for Student Learning, he has championed faculty development and continuous professional growth. He has also supported programs that advance student learning, like the first-year experience, second-year program, the Core general education program, and Momentum – Etown’s bridge experience for first-generation college students. He has dedicated himself to transformational educational experiences and improving conditions for teaching, learning, and ongoing professional growth throughout his career.

“Dr. Skillen brings to this role an enthusiasm for teaching and learning,” said Amanda Gutierrez, provost and executive

vice president. “His creative and relational style will be a great asset to our campus community. I am excited to work with him and to welcome his family to McPherson.”

Previously at Elizabethtown College, Dr. Skillen served as a professor in the English department, director of the English education program, department chair for the English and communications departments, and director of the Etown College Teaching and Learning Design Studio. Before starting at Etown, he served as a classroom teacher for Maize USD 266 in Maize, Kan., and as a graduate teaching assistant at Kansas State University.

He is married to Rebekah Skillen, a registered nurse and certified childbirth educator. They have two children.

McPherson College Announces New Director of Choral Activities

Andrew Voth will join the faculty as the new director of choral activities and assistant professor of music. He previously taught middle school and high school choir in Goessel, Kan., and is currently completing a Doctor of Musical Arts in Choral Conducting at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

“I am excited to return to Kansas and start making music with the students at McxPherson College,” Voth said. “Music can be an incredibly important part of the college experience, and I am excited to help current and future Bulldogs create lasting memories and life-long musical skills. This is truly a dream come true for me.”

While completing his graduate studies, Voth has served as a teacher assistant for the choral department by leading the University Chorus and Masters Singers and as assistant conductor in the Chorale Lab Choir and Madrigal Singers. He also oversaw pre-service teachers in their practicum and student teaching experiences. His current research focuses on providing teachers with resources to create more accessible choral classrooms by integrating a cultural model of disability and culturally responsive teaching.

“We are eager to welcome Andrew to McPherson College,” said Amanda Gutierrez, provost. “Our students

responded to his energy and expertise when he visited campus. He will be a great addition to the MC performing arts program.”

Voth earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music Degree with education licensure from Bethel College in 2013 and a Master of Music in Choral Conducting from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2020. His other professional experience includes serving as assistant conductor and soloist for the Kansas Mennonite Men’s Chorus, an ensemble of approximately 200 that performs two concerts each year to raise money for the Mennonite Central Committee. He was also choir director at Grace Hill Mennonite Church in Whitewater, Kan., and Lorraine Avenue Mennonite church in Wichita.

MC Honors Faculty, Staff, Trustees For Years Of Service

The McPherson College community gathered to celebrate 18 employees and trustees for their years of service to the college with a reception, dinner, and awards program at the McPherson Community Building in March. The annual night of recognition celebrated the work of faculty, staff, and board of trustee members who have served the college from five to 35 years.

“The outstanding achievements and accomplishments by the honorees in the classroom, within individual departments, and in the McPherson community propel the college beyond being a great college to work for,” President Michael Schneider said. “These honorees facilitated world-class experiences for our students and it is in this deep sense of campus community where our students excel to be leaders of the future.”

Those honored included:

35 Years Kim Stanley, professor of English

30 Years Jonathan Frye, professor of natural science

20 Years Ku-Sup Chin, professor of sociology

Dee Erway-Sherwood, professor of graphic design and program director of graphic design

Rod Gieselman, professor of business

Brian Lundberg, director of marketing

15 Years Phil Schoenwetter, head athletic trainer

10 Years Dara Dix, student financial services manager

Lorena Medrano, associate professor of Spanish

Kyle Hopkins, associate professor of music and director of bands

5 Years Leslie Auman, custodian supervisor

Amelia Lutz, advancement services coordinator

Josh Nichols, head women’s basketball coach

Kelly Olson, admissions associate and campus visit coordinator

Jennifer Pollard, assistant professor of theatre

Ricardo Rodriguez, assistant professor of physics

Board of Trustees Kerri Kobbeman ‘97, Les Shenefelt ‘69

New Director Of Athletics Joins Bulldog Staff

Josh Daume joined the Bulldog Athletic Department as the new director of athletics in June. Daume has 20 years of experience in NCAA Division I athletics.

“I look forward to welcoming Josh to McPherson College,” said McPherson College President Michael Schneider. “He has great experience as an administrator and understands the important elements of leading a successful athletic program.”

Daume served as the senior associate athletic director for compliance at Arkansas State University, a position he has held since April 2019. He worked closely with the financial aid, admissions, housing, and registrar’s offices, serving as the primary liaison for athletics. In addition to running a comprehensive Division I compliance program, he was the sports administrator for the men’s golf, women’s volleyball, and women’s bowling programs. Arkansas State is a highly competitive member of the Sun Belt Conference, winning the 2019-2020 Bubas Cup, the all-sports championship trophy.

While at ASU, Daume implemented software providing student-athletes access to online, anonymous reporting related to Title IX, NCAA compliance, social justice, and other issues affecting student-athletes. He is a member of the NCAA International Student Records Committee and assisted implementation of a NIL education program to help student-athletes understand the NCAA rules and Arkansas state laws.

“It’s an honor to be named the next athletics director at McPherson College,” Daume said. “When the position came open, I knew it was something I was interested in, and after doing

some research, it became clear that McPherson was a tremendous opportunity. Throughout the process, the alignment between the president and the athletics department was apparent, which is necessary for any department to succeed. There is a great staff in place, and the student-athletes I had an opportunity to meet are hungry for success. Most importantly, we will continue building a program where student-athletes have a well-rounded experience, complete their degrees, and represent the college in a first-class manner.”

Before ASU, he served over 12 years as the associate athletic director for compliance at the University of Texas at San Antonio. He worked as the Internal Operations Coordinator at Texas State from 2004-07 and was a graduate assistant at Texas A&M in 2004.

Daume is a native of Burkburnett, Texas, and earned a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from Midwestern State in 2002 and a master’s degree in sport management from Texas A&M in 2004. He has been an active high school football official for over 20 years and officiated in the Lone Star Conference (NCAA Division II) for six years.

He and his wife, Leah, have a son.

2022-23 season with an overall record of 11-18 and an 8-14 mark in KCAC play. The season was highlighted by knocking off the eventual KCAC Tournament champion Saint Mary Spires 68-61 at the Sport Center to help head coach Josh Nichols win his 100th career game. Individually, Dy'mond McElrath was named to the All-KCAC Honorable Mention team, and Gillian Rodgers picked up All-KCAC Freshman Team honors.

Baseball

It was another historic season for Bulldog baseball, as they won their first-ever KCAC Tournament championship after a 3-0 showing in Great Bend. Andres Artola Jr. capped off the week with a walk-off home run to lift the Bulldogs to a 6-5 win over Kansas Wesleyan in the 11th inning of the championship game. The tournament title secured a trip to their third consecutive NAIA National Tournament. In the NAIA Tournament, the Bulldogs were eliminated by host-seed LSU Shreveport in a 10-inning thriller, falling 6-4.

The Bulldogs finished the season, placing six players on the All-KCAC teams, with senior catcher Antonio Fernandez notching a unanimous first-team selection and Blake Maddock picking up a first-team nod. Caleb Feuerstake secured second-team honors, while Gage Ninness, Darby Gilbert, and Tyler Norris were named All-KCAC honorable mention. Fernandez was also named a first-team NAIA All-American, marking the second consecutive season a Bulldog secured the honor.

Men‘s Basketball

The 2022-23 season saw a young men's basketball squad finish with a 13-15 record and an 8-14 record in the KCAC. The Bulldogs opened the season with a six-game winning streak. Owen Braxmeyer and Antonio Watson each picked up All-KCAC honorable mention recognition.

Track & Field

It was a record-setting season for the Bulldog men’s and women’s track and field squads, as the 4x800m relay team of Samantha Thompson, Ellyce Mares, Amari Robb, and Abriana Phipps shattered the previous school record by nearly ten seconds at the KCAC Championship meet. Brock Lauer finished second in the 3000m steeplechase at the conference championships, securing a spot in the NAIA National Championship meet.

Softball

It was an up-and-down season for the Bulldog softball team, finishing the season with a 21-21 record and a 12-12 mark in KCAC play to pick up the seven seed in the KCAC Tournament. The Bulldogs pulled off an incredible first-round upset over second-seeded Friends University in postseason play. The Bulldogs outlasted Bethany 4-3 in a 17-inning marathon before being eliminated by Friends 11-4.

Women’s Tennis

The Bulldog women’s tennis team completed a successful The Bulldogs women's tennis team had a tough non-conference slate. The team finished the season with a 10-14 record but turned it on late in the season, knocking off top-seeded Southwestern 4-2 in the KCAC semifinals before coming up just short in the championship match against Ottawa, 4-3. Camila Sanchez was named the KCAC Freshman of the Year while snagging first-team All-KCAC honors. Grace Maxey was also a first-team selection, while Vanessa Hofer notched an All-KCAC honorable mention nod.

Three bring home national titles from Clay Target Championships

The McPherson College Shotgun Sports team won three individual national championship titles from the annual ACUI Collegiate Clay Target Championships held at the National Shooting Complex near San Antonio, Texas. The athletes competed in the singles American trap category.

Emma Speer won women’s class B with 95 of 100 targets, and Ethan Huston won men’s class C with 96 targets. Lindzie Archer won women’s class C with 93 targets and a tie-breaking shoot-off, 22-16, out of 25 targets.

Established in 1968, ACUI Clay Targets is the oldest collegiate shotgun sports association nationwide. This year’s Collegiate Clay Target Championships were held in March.

As the largest collegiate shotgun sports national championship, comprised of over 750 student-athletes from 74 colleges, teams from all collegiate athletic divisions compete against each other.

Men’s Tennis

The Bulldogs men's tennis squad finished the season with an 18-6 record and was a perfect 9-0 in KCAC play for the third straight season. They capped off the stellar season with their eighth consecutive KCAC Tournament title. The Bulldogs ran their conference winning streak to 44 straight matches (including the postseason) dating back to March 2019. In the NAIA Tournament, the Bulldogs picked up a 4-1 win over No. 13-seeded Ave Maria, their third win ever in the NAIA postseason. The Bulldogs went toe-to-toe with fourth-seeded Tennessee Wesleyan before falling 4-0.

Marcus Nardy was named the KCAC Freshman of the Year and was on the All-KCAC First Team. Michael Beltran joined Nardy with first-team All-KCAC honors, while Oscar Brouwer was a second-team selection, and Celien Botlan and Martin Millos grabbed All-KCAC Honorable Mention selections.

The team started in the fall of 2020 as the first collegiate shotgun sports team in Kansas to offer varsity-level athletic scholarships for the sport. It began its inaugural year of competition with the 2021-2022 school year. The team’s first success was three first-place finishes in the fall of 2021 from the USA College Clay Target League, a virtual league where teams shoot at their facilities, and then coaches upload scores online.

www.macbulldogs.com

MC Student Recognized In NextGen Under 30 Program

McPherson College student Emma Speer was among the inaugural class of the NextGen Under 30 recognized at an awards ceremony in Topeka. NextGen Under 30 is a recognition program developed by the Kansas legislature that celebrates the talent cultivated in Kansas to keep young professionals in the state.

Speer was selected from the sports and outdoors nomination category. She is from Cedar Vale, Kan., and graduated in May with a degree in sociology. She participated the Bulldog shotgun sports team.

“Receiving this award shows that people are aware of your passions and achievements,” Speer said. “This award isn’t just a symbol of one’s achievements, but a symbol of the dedication and passion they have to create new opportunities in Kansas and influence future generations.”

The NextGen Under 30 program encourages the next generation of innovative, creative, and inspiring individuals who push the boundaries in various categories or endeavors. Award winners were selected based on their participation and contribution to their communities. A panel of business and civic leaders served as judges.

PEOPLES BANK AND TRUST PLEDGES $500,000 TO MAJOR McPHERSON COLLEGE BUILDING PROJECT

A McPherson business with deep roots in the community is making a significant investment in McPherson College’s most ambitious building campaign. Peoples Bank and Trust has committed $500,000 toward the college’s signature building project – the Campus Commons. In appreciation of the gift, the third-floor Welcome Center in the building will be named the People’s Bank and Trust Welcome Center.

Peoples Bank and Trust’s pledge propels McPherson College closer to completing fundraising for the Campus Commons. The bank’s pledge also boosts McPherson College toward securing a $2 million challenge grant from the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Foundation.

“This gift recognizes the special relationship between the college and Peoples Bank and Trust,” said McPherson College President Michael Schneider. “It’s fitting that the gift comes during the bank’s 125th anniversary and supports a project that will have a lasting impact on our community.”

Once completed, the Campus Commons will stand as one of the most prominent buildings in McPherson, serving students, employees, and community members. The 55,000-square-foot building will serve as the beating heart of student life on campus, providing a state-of-the-art event venue, service hub, and place to grab a bite—while passing through a three-story atrium with classic cars on display, celebrating McPherson’s one-of-a-kind Automotive Restoration degree program. “The Commons” will be a true signature facility that will accommodate McPherson College’s growth and provide a new “front door” to the campus and a welcome to the city of McPherson.

"We are extremely pleased to partner with McPherson College on their Campus Commons project," said Tom Pruitt, president and CEO of Peoples Bank and Trust. "We have worked alongside McPherson College since the bank began in 1898. Our founder, F.A. Vaniman established a relationship with the college when he moved to town and began Peoples State Bank. That relationship has continued to grow over the past 125 years. We are very excited for the impact the new Campus Commons project will have on the college, and the community."

The gift is part of the successful $60 million Building Community comprehensive campaign, which is the catalyst of the college’s largest-ever investment in new buildings in its 135-year history. In addition to new structures, nearly half of the $60 million in new funding will directly support educational initiatives on campus, such as student scholarships, Health Science, Automotive Restoration, and other academic programs and growth areas.

Peoples Bank and Trust was founded in 1898 by F.A. Vaniman. The bank, known then as Peoples State Bank, was in downtown McPherson in the same location today. Over the years, the bank has supported McPherson College in various ways, a partnership that has reaped benefits for both organizations while serving the people of McPherson. Notably, in 1959 the Vaniman family home was donated to the college and used as a dormitory, and later as the McPherson Museum. In addition to the Vanimans, Sargent family members held prominent roles in the bank, with many attending and graduating from McPherson College. The Houghton family — current bank owners — have been highly involved with McPherson College by serving on its board of trustees and supporting the development of new academic programs.

Major: Biochemistry: Pre-Vet

Class: Junior

SCHOLARSHIPS:

Full-tuition Natural Science Scholarship, American Implement, and Western State Bank Ag Future Scholarship

ACTIVITIES:

McPherson College Pre-Health Professions Club events coordinator, creative director of the McPherson College

Gamma Beta Phi Chapter, member of the McPherson College Choir, member and student leader in the Student Debt Project

HONORS AND AWARDS:

Earned Honor Roll 3 semesters in a row

(FA 21, SP 22, and FA 22)

You can support our students by giving to the McPherson College Fund online at:

www.mcpherson.edu/giving

Or contact the Advancement office at (800) 365-7402.

difference to have such wonderful people in my corner! I joined the Student Debt Project, and it has been a blessing in my life. Through the program, I have met amazing mentors and made friends with the same goal, to graduate with little to no debt. I plan to attend veterinary school and finishing my undergraduate program with as little debt as possible will make a huge difference when I have to pay off future student loans. I am very grateful for the opportunities that McPherson College has provided me through scholarships and the Student Debt Project!”

Maggie J. Brown Leoti, Kan.

Participation is one of the pillars of the McPherson College mission to develop whole persons. It’s an important piece of the equation because, through participation, students can learn valuable leadership lessons, according to two McPherson College student leaders.

“I learned how to balance wanting to please everyone and needing to do what had to get done,” said outgoing Student Government Association president Olivia Smith. “That’s a big life lesson because you can never make everyone happy. I’m glad I could learn that lesson in this environment. There have been so many leadership lessons that I would not have learned without being involved on campus.”

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the McPherson College student governing body. It serves students' needs, and the student body elects its o cers. O cers must maintain a 3.25 GPA, and senators must maintain a 3.0 GPA. It hosts the Light and Life student awards and Campus Blowout event. New leadership is elected each spring, and incoming o cers work with outgoing ones.

“I don’t have any experience with SGA,” said Taylor Bohannon, SGA president-elect. “Getting to work with Olivia has been extremely helpful. Her guidance and lessons on leadership have given me insight into what I will be doing next year. We will lead a young team, and she is OK with me bugging her next year if I have questions.”

The transition of leadership has valuable lessons, according to Smith and Bohannon.

“It’s been really special for me because I’ve known Taylor since she was a freshman and watched her grow as a leader,” Smith said. “I have a feeling she will do an even better job than me, and I hope I can give her what she needs to do that. A leader builds up the people around them, especially those who come after them.”

Having the support of Smith and other peers has helped Bohannon seek out more involvement on campus.

“McPherson College is a special place,” Bohannon said. “As a student, you see others like Olivia in unique leadership roles, and they encourage you to

get involved. The older students are very supportive and look for potential in younger students and will let them know they would be good in di erent areas. It’s one thing to hear that from a professor, but it makes a di erence when you hear it from another student.”

While both will have led SGA, each has had other unique leadership roles on campus that have been valuable learning experiences. Smith majored in biochemistry, was a lab assistant, and taught organic chemistry labs during Professor

“The breadth of opportunities exists if you seek them out,” Smith said. “Everyone is willing to help you. The faculty and sta provided great mentorship and helped me develop as a leader. Teaching was not something I thought I could do, but it taught me how to interact with my peers on a professional level and how to adapt to di erent learning styles. Going into academia was not something I thought to pursue, but now I see it could be an option.”

Bohannon had a similar experience on the women’s basketball team. She was recruited to play and did for two years before becoming a student

Taylor Bohannon addresses the campus during Awards Convocation as the incoming SGA president for the 23-24 academic year.

assistant for the Bulldogs. This past season she coached the junior varsity squad. The experience fits nicely into her plans of possibly teaching biology and coaching.

“Even though this is a small college, there are a variety of opportunities for involvement and to practice leadership skills,” Bohannon said. “Being able to coach people my age helped me develop tangible skills that I can use later on if I decide to continue coaching or in other leadership roles.”

But campus involvement isn’t the only way to build leadership skills, according to Bohannon.

“Another way we benefit is getting to know our professors and sta at the college,” she said. “Building relationships with people that will guide your life for the next four years and beyond is important. I would encourage students to take advantage of all the opportunities to practice leadership. Find something that interests you and know it’s

OK to move on if it doesn’t work out. Something will stick that you hadn’t even considered before.”

“There are opportunities to lead even in the classroom,” Smith added. “Being the one asking the questions, getting the conversation startedthat’s leading. We have incredible opportunities to have one-on-one conversations with our professors in class. The best advice I have for other students at McPherson College is not to be afraid to put yourself out there. My college experience and life have been so much fuller and more well-rounded from getting involved.”

For a list of student clubs and organizations at McPherson College, please visit:

mcpherson.presence.io/organizations

After initially playing and then serving as a student assistant for the women’s basketball team, Taylor coached the junior varsity squad during the 22-23 season.

Olivia Smith and fellow student leaders provide support to incoming students during Welcome Weekend 2022.

S.A.L.T. Leader Trey Murphy

An important part of the student leadership structure at McPherson College is the Student-Athlete Leadership Team (SALT). Each spring, coaches nominate two representatives from each team to serve as representatives for the following academic year. The students who serve on SALT develop valuable leadership skills as they address changes in rules and regulations, organize community service, and build a positive image for McPherson College athletics. SALT focuses on two annual events that support and encourage student-athletes: Student-Athlete Appreciation Week and the SALT Sports Gala.

SALT representatives play an important role in bridging the gap between administration and student-athletes. The committee is designed to incorporate ideas and opinions from student-athletes into legislative and campus decisions that affect their academic and athletic pursuits.

Trey Murphy, a member of the tennis team from Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia, served as president of SALT for the past two years. Murphy graduated in May with a health science degree and now works as an assistant racquets professional at Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis.

“I was very proud to be involved in organizing and producing the annual Sports Gala,” Murphy said. “Being able to work alongside the staff and athletes to provide a campuswide celebratory event that recognizes the accomplishments of teams and individuals was rewarding to me and beneficial to the athletic program.”

The members of SALT represent the largest student population on campus by communicating the concerns and needs of all student-athletes to ensure their success in sports and in the classroom. It also serves as a leadership training program for the student-athlete representatives.

While Murphy’s leadership focused primarily on athletics, he also served as the lead resident assistant of Dotzour Hall and secretary of the International Student Association. His leadership experiences

provided lessons for personal growth and skill development, including effective communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and working with a diverse group of people.

“McPherson College provided me with multiple opportunities to gain leadership qualities and experiences,” he said. “I have been supported by multiple frameworks within the school that have directed and guided me toward experiences where I have learned from my mistakes and appreciated my successes. The skills I learned from my leadership roles at McPherson College will enhance my professional prospects.”

According to Murphy, becoming a leader on campus can be as simple as finding what genuinely interests you and developing skills to support it.

“My advice to other students is to get involved in clubs and seek leadership positions,” he said. “Seek mentorship and connect with mentors in your field of interest and study their actions. Continue to learn about leadership and reflect on experiences that help you to always improve.”

SMALL CAMPUS PROVIDES FERTILE GROUND FOR LEADERSHIP

Small colleges can provide the perfect environment for young people to learn and practice important skills to become leaders. The colleges that do it well have solid values and core beliefs that guide decisions and influence the faculty, sta , and students, according to two McPherson College Board of Trustee members with decades of experience in student a airs.

“The good colleges have values with faculty and sta who don’t lose sight of why they are in higher education,” said Carolyn Coon. “Their role is to shape and educate young people to prepare them for life past college.”

Dr. ShaRhonda Maclin ‘00, associate dean of students and executive director of housing at the University of Oklahoma provided the commencement address in 2021.

Leadership at McPherson

“At McPherson College, we live by our mission,” ShaRhonda Maclin said. “It’s the fiber of who we are and important because it gives us a responsibility to continue to provide guidance and resources that transcend generations.”

Both Coon and Maclin currently serve on the McPherson Board of Trustees and are alumnae of small private colleges. Maclin graduated from McPherson College in 2000, and Coon is a graduate of Bethel College. And both previously worked at McPherson College in student a airs.

Maclin is the associate dean of students and executive director of housing and residence life at the University of Oklahoma. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and early childhood special education from McPherson College and her master’s degree in higher education administration with a concentration in student services from the University of Oklahoma. She holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Capella University. Before her move to the University of Oklahoma, she served as vice president for student a airs and dean of students at McPherson and then at Tarleton State University.

Coon recently retired from California State University at Fresno as the associate vice president for student a airs and dean of students. In the late 1990s, she worked as the director of residence life, dean of students, and associate professor of behavioral science at McPherson College. She received her bachelor’s degree from Bethel College, her master’s degree from Wichita State University, and her doctorate from Kansas State University.

Maclin and Coon agree that observing, learning, and practicing leadership skills on college campuses is essential and even more critical now. Because of the disruption caused by the covid pandemic, students have few leadership experiences to draw upon. Maclin says it is essential that college campuses find ways to keep students engaged.

“This post-covid generation lost leadership examples, and colleges are establishing or re-establishing these roles,” she said. “Students are pulled in so many directions and are laser-focused sooner in their college experience. We have to find ways for them to explore themselves through leadership opportunities. College is a safe place for them to try out leadership skills and sometimes fail.”

“There are so many examples of poor leadership out there today, and it’s easy to get caught up in technology and lose sight of what is important,” Coon added. “That’s why we need to provide experiences for students to learn to talk to people, in person, instead of looking at each other in boxes on a screen.”

Providing opportunities and o ering support is

something that smaller colleges do well. Mentorship and building relationships with faculty and sta are more easily accessed on a smaller campus, Coon said.

“On a smaller campus, faculty get to know students personally,” Coon said. “They can help them learn from their mistakes. It’s a blessing for the students who come to places like McPherson College to know, yes, we might all be watching you, but we also have your back. Mistakes will be made, but it’s better to learn from them now and avoid them when you’re older and have a mortgage.”

Maclin adds that she still uses many of the lessons she learned as a student in her career and implements many of the Kansas Leadership Center’s concepts used at McPherson College.

“A leader does not have to be a person with a title,” she said. “The best opportunities are the ones that give others agency to lead. As a student at McPherson College, Sharon Knechel, the vice president for student a airs, saw my potential and suggested, that I, as a freshman, run for SGA president. I was able to engage with campus leaders personally. As a student, you don’t always get to spend time with the president. That idea of servant leadership has always been at the core of McPherson College.”

The skills learned through leadership opportunities are important skills that have applications beyond college. Communication, meeting structure, conflict resolution, managing people, and time are all transferrable skills sought in today’s job market. And for many students, practicing leadership skills o ers opportunities to work with a wide diversity of people for the first time.

“Leadership at college provides extremely valuable lessons,” Maclin said. “Students can influence policy and process during their four years. They have a seat at the table and can see themselves moving the needle.”

“Leadership has never been about having power for me,” Coon said. “It boils down to learning how to be helpful, navigate life, and be a good person.”

Dr. Carolyn Coon recently retired from the California State University at Fresno as the associate vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

PHOTO: CSU FRESNO

LEADERSHIP FRAMEWORK GIVES CAMPUS COMMON LANGUAGE

Phrases such as “leadership is an activity,” “adaptive challenges,” and “intervene skillfully” are as much a part of the McPherson College lexicon as “It’s a great day to be a Bulldog.” That is because, for nearly 10 years, the college has partnered with the Kansas Leadership Center (KLC) to implement its leadership philosophy and tackle some of the college’s biggest challenges.

The Kansas Leadership Center, a non-profit organization, has a bold mission to transform civic life in Kansas and beyond. It aims to create a culture where ordinary people exercise leadership and engage others to make progress on their toughest challenges.

“The KLC helps ordinary citizens with civic leadership and engagement,” said Kaye Monk-Morgan, President and CEO of KLC. “That engagement is everything from running for a political o ce to being on

the PTA at your kid’s school, to caring about your neighbor, and everything in between.”

Monk-Morgan stated the KLC’s objective is to help individuals deploy themselves in ways that increase the likelihood of making progress on daunting challenges. She emphasized that challenges often go unsolved for decades or generations because we rely on authority figures or designated leaders, rather than individuals, to assume accountability for finding solutions.

“Our primary work and belief are centered on the idea that if we approach things di erently, we will achieve di erent outcomes,” she said. “We partner with individuals to build stronger systems.”

McPherson College first partnered with KLC in 2014 when President Michael Schneider introduced the KLC adaptive framework to address freshman retention on

PHOTO: KANSAS LEADERSHIP CENTER

Kaye Monk-Morgan, President and CEO of the Kansas LeadershipCenter

Leadership at McPherson

campus. A diverse group of campus employees participated in KLC training, setting the stage for an all-campus meeting in the fall of 2014. The goal was to mobilize the entire campus to improve freshman retention. KLC competencies inspiring collective purpose, working across factions, testing multiple interpretations and points of view, and creating a trustworthy process were emphasized.

After the first year of working with KLC and involving the entire campus in retention e orts, the college increased fall-to-fall freshman retention from 56% to 70%. While work on retention continues, the KLC framework has also been applied to diagnose other campus issues, such as increasing the retention of minority students.

“I have watched McPherson College do fantastic things and have discussions both on campus and in your community in ways that most institutions don’t,” Monk-Morgan said. “You also have an administrator who makes room for others to exercise leadership and engages not only the voices that are typically at the table but looks for the uncommon voices, too.”

Developing an environment where everyone is invited to lead isn’t always easy. According to Monk-Morgan, the challenges that often interest a college campus are adaptive challenges – ones that cannot be solved with technical solutions, such as student retention, community engagement, and workforce development.

“It’s not an easy place to be,” she said. “McPherson College is fortunate to have a president who understands that he might not have the only idea, so he gets a bunch of people in the room and hears from them. McPherson College is benefitting from that. You can see it in the faculty, sta , and even the students.”

Creating an environment where everyone can experiment with leadership is crucial for colleges. Providing faculty, sta , and students the skills to practice leadership instills in them the courage and confidence to engage actively.

“When we work at colleges, we often talk about our college students as leaders for the future, but the reality is that they are leading now,” Monk-Morgan said. “If we can give them the skill set that allows them, while they are young, to approach a challenge with confidence and engage di erently, hopefully, it allows them to see that

they can do other things, too. Students practicing those skills can be hugely e ective because of the way they show up and the relationships that they build.”

While numerous organizations o er leadership training and executive development, few approach it the same way as KLC does.

“It is a unique framework,” Monk-Morgan said. “Our framework says leadership is an activity, not a position. And everyone is expected to do it. It’s not a single person or senior team or group of selective individuals; it is many di erent people doing it. That’s really avant-garde.”

While the college’s goal is to utilize the KLC process to work together as a community and address the challenges facing the campus, the KLC’s objective is to see its framework applied in other areas as well. Although it is a Kansas-based nonprofit organization, it extends its work beyond Kansas, partnering with federal and state-level government, Fortune 500 companies, and other colleges outside the state.

“We hope for a ripple e ect,” Monk-Morgan said. “The campus works on the challenges it has elevated, but the same skill sets show up in the community at city council meetings, Kiwanis, school board, or running for a local o ce. No matter where our point of entry is to develop these skills, once you have them, you can use them in many other places and spaces. The more we partner with the college, the more the community will see those skills spill over outside campus. When di erent people in di erent places adopt these practices, you start to see the culture shift.”

Kaye Monk-Morgan leading a workshop for faculty and staff on the McPherson College campus.

Citation of Merit Award Recipients Honored

Dwight Oltman

The beginning of Dwight Oltman’s 55-year career as a renowned international conductor and music educator can be traced back to his senior year at McPherson College. He was asked to fill in for the band director, who had become ill until a replacement was found and ended up conducting the entire academic year.

Oltman was the founding music director of the Ohio Chamber Orchestra in Cleveland and conducted the orchestra from 1972 to 1992. He was also the music director and principal conductor of Cleveland Ballet from 1976 to 2000. He conducted ballet performances in cities across the United States, including New York and Chicago, and in Europe at the Edinburgh Festival in Scotland. From 2000 until 2012, he was the music director of Ballet San Jose in California and traveled with the company to perform in Shanghai, China. Oltman served on the faculty of Baldwin Wallace University for 40 years from 1970 until 2014, where he conducted the symphony orchestra and symphonic wind ensemble. Both groups were

honored by being selected to perform at numerous state, regional, and national conferences. He also directed the renowned Baldwin Wallace Bach Festival for 39 years, which was featured on PBS for its St. Matthew’s Passion performance and at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Throughout his career, he conducted various orchestras in the United States and abroad and was a guest lecturer for many national conferences and American music schools.

He graduated from McPherson College in 1958, earned a Master of Art in Music from Wichita State University in 1963, and completed postgraduate coursework at the University of Cincinnati. Additionally, he studied conducting with Pierre Monteux and Max Rudolf, two of the leading pedagogues of the 20th century, and composition in France with Nadia Boulanger. He was recognized with a proclamation from Cleveland Mayor Michael White and recognized with a Morton Gould Award from the American Society of Composers.

The McPherson College Citation of Merit award recipients for 2023 are Dwight Oltman ’58 (posthumously), Zane Smith ’66, and Garold Minns ’73. These recipients exemplify the college’s mission of Service, Scholarship, and Participation through their lifelong commitment to the values they developed as students at McPherson College. The college honored them at a dinner on April 21 at the Community Building in McPherson.

Zane Smith ’66 and Garold Minns ’73

Zane Smith

Zane Smith put his business degree from McPherson College to use in helping develop his hometown of Ankeny, Iowa. After graduating from McPherson in 1966, he returned to his home and opened a gas station just o well-traveled Interstate-35. He later continued his education in real estate and obtained a real estate and broker’s license, becoming a Certified Residential Specialist and Certified Commercial Investment Member. He established a residential real estate company, Zane Smith Realty, which grew into one of the leading residential real estate companies in Iowa. He expanded his company into commercial sales and founded Zane Smith Commercial. He is a 50-year member of the Des Moines Area Association of Realtors and a member of the Iowa Commercial Real Estate Association and National Association of Realtors. In addition to his real estate companies, he was also a past co-owner of two tire stores and six convenience stores.

He is an active member of community organizations. He is a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge and Ankeny Rotary Club and a nine-time Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, and member of the Za-Ga-Zig Shrine-Royal Order of Jesters. He is a past board of directors member of the Ankeny Chamber of Commerce and First American Bank. He is a life-long member of the Ankeny Church of the Brethren. Smith established a permanent ongoing endowed scholarship fund for students in the McPherson College business program.

Garold Minns

Dr. Garold Minns grew up in McPherson and graduated from McPherson College with a degree in biology in 1973. He continued his education at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita. At KUMC-Wichita he completed his residency in internal medicine, followed by an infectious disease fellowship. He joined the faculty of KUMC-Wichita in 1980 and today serves as its dean and associate dean for Academic and Student A airs, professor, and was the previous chair of the Department of Internal Medicine. He is the Sedgwick County health o cer and during the pandemic was instrumental in leading health policy for the county, including Wichita. He also serves as part-time physician at the Wichita Veterans Hospital. His community involvement includes working with the National Youth Sports Program, giving physical exams for youths, and as a camp physician for the Boy Scouts of America. He is a member of the Wichita First Church of the Brethren, where he has been actively involved in committees over the years, and as volunteer physician for the Annual Conference.

A recording of the Evening of Recognition Awards dinner and program can be found at: https://livestream.com/mcpherson-college

Fern Lingenfelter Artist Series

Alum Returns to Perform in Concert Series

Dr. Irvin Wagner and the University of Oklahoma Trombone Choir performed at McPherson College as part of the Fern Lingenfelter Artist Series in Brown Auditorium. Dr. Wagner is a 1959 graduate of McPherson College and former band director.

In addition to the Trombone Choir, the concert put a spotlight on the Solo Trombone Quartet. The quartet featured Brent Mead, principal in the Wichita Symphony; Randy Crow, an adjunct brass instructor at McPherson College; Dan Hinman, trombone professor at Kansas State University; and Matt Blauer from the Wichita Symphony, making McPherson the “trombone capitol of Kansas,” for the evening, according to Dr. Wagner. The Lingenfelter Concert featured some of Dr. Wagner’s original compositions along with classical and jazz trombone pieces.

Dr. Wagner’s remarkable career includes conducting, performing, and teaching trombone for 53 years at the University of Oklahoma. He is a founding member of the Oklahoma Brass Quintet and conducts the popular OU Trombone Choir. He is a member of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and the conductor for many of that orchestra’s pops concerts. He has also been a guest conductor at the Kansas City Symphony, the Santa Fe (Argentina) Symphony, the Paraguay National Symphony Orchestra, the St. Petersburg Imperial Orchestra, and others. His compositions and arrangements are in demand by many major symphony orchestras and trombone choirs. In 2019, he received the International Trombone Association Lifetime Achievement Award.

He is a pioneer for trombone ensembles stemming from his education at Eastman School of Music, where he studied under Emory Remington and later began researching older music for trombone ensembles. The OU Trombone Choir with Dr. Wagner as conductor appears often at major conventions and many times at the International Trombone Festival. Approximately 30 musicians from the choir performed at the McPherson concert.

“I have been fortunate to travel to many parts of the world as a trombone soloist and conductor,” Dr. Wagner said. “I call McPherson my hometown, and McPherson College is where I received a remarkable education. I owe McPherson College for the wonderful education as a musician and person and for forming the foundation of all I have been able to do.”

Admission to the Lingenfelter concert was free thanks to a generous commitment to McPherson College honoring Fern Lingenfelter. Lingenfelter, an alumna of McPherson College, taught piano in McPherson for many years to both college students on campus and younger students at her studio downtown. Her son, Steve Clark, chairman of Clark Investment Group of Wichita, established the fund that supports two annual music performance events with special emphasis on piano.

MARCH 9, 2023 POWER DAY BREAKS GIVING RECORD AGAIN!

McPherson College’s Power Day 2023 met all the goals set for the annual online giving day, raising almost $330,000 for scholarships and programs. In its ninth year, more than 350 alumni and friends of the college made gifts that helped unlock five matching challenges that totaled over $90,000. Thank you alumni and friends for your support!

why I give

To receive estate planning information, sign-up for the bi-weekly MC Gift Planning e-newsletter at www.mclegacy.com

Cheri Hudson ‘79

I give to McPherson College because I have had generous role models and because I feel like it’s in my blood. I have early memories of attending McPherson College basketball games at what is now the McPherson Middle School. The big, cold concrete steps were the bleachers. I remember attending events in Brown Auditorium before I could tell time. My parents pointed to the clocks at the front and told me the show would start when the big hand was straight up. They decided I needed glasses when they realized I couldn’t see the hands.

I guess I am what would be called a “legacy kid.” My grandparents, aunts, and uncles (even some greats), layers of cousins, siblings, nephews, a niece, and daughter attended McPherson College. I was told from a young age that my grandma attended there before it was called a college. Later, my other grandma was the Dotzour Hall dorm mother. I even remember my grandpa complaining about college representatives asking him for donations! When I was growing up, the preachers we had at Monitor Church of the Brethren were McPherson College professors: Raymond Flory, Harley Stump, Dale Goldsmith, and Monroe Hughbanks.

My student experience (1975-1979) created lifetime friendships, and I continue to use my accounting degree at my current job. My parents, Merlin and Delma Cline Miller met as students at McPherson College. When Mom died 34 years ago, my family created a named endowed scholarship. My father stayed involved with McPherson College until he passed away in 2022. I started working in the registrar’s office the day I graduated from high school, and I worked at McPherson College until I married and moved

ONLINE: support our students

www.mcpherson.edu/giving

college, some employees created an investment club. We studied the principles of companies and learned about investing in stocks. I bought into seven companies that offered dividend reinvestment plans. Several failed but watching a couple of those investments over the past 33 years has been fun. I always told myself I would eventually return those investments to the college. I gave a couple of them about 10 years ago. When I learned of the $500 million match opportunity, I decided to donate the last two of those original seven investments: McDonald’s and Aflac. These are some reasons my husband, Neal Hudson, and I give. We are following in the footsteps of some of my lifetime heroes. We want to pay back and pay forward to this Church of the Brethren institution in which we believe.

BY MAIL: McPherson College Advancement Office 1600 E. Euclid St. PO Box 1402 McPherson, KS 67460

Amount: $1,000 $500 $200 $100 Other $

Designation: MC Fund Student Debt Project Scholarships Other

Special Instructions

Name Phone Email Address City State Zip

Cheri Hudson with her father, Merlin Miller ’54.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Carl Kasey ’47, McPherson, celebrated his 100th birthday on November 28, 2022.

Gary Wilson ’66, Chicago, Ill., had a collection of short stories published by Adelaide Books in July 2022 entitled “For Those Who Favor Fire”. His new novel, “The Narrow Window,” will be published by John Hunt Publishing in February 2024.

Glenn Walker ’68, Brookville, Kan., and his wife Barbara, received the Ellsworth County Soil Conservation District Grasslands Award for 2023. Walkers were also finalists for the prestigious Kansas Leopold Conversation Award for 2022.

Joan Cunnick ’79, Ames, Iowa, is the recipient of the 2023 Outstanding Achievement in Teaching Award from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Iowa State University. She is a professor in animal science and for 31 years has taught courses and laboratories in the microbiology undergraduate program.

Kevin Carman ’82, Laramie, Wy., began full time in June as University of Wyoming’s new Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, the university’s second-ranking leadership position.

Jacqueline Baker Queen ’98, Republic, Mo., has graduated summa cum laude with a master’s in professional science-chemistry from Missouri State University.

Jodi Good ’03, Columbia, Pa., is a mental health professional working with an after-school program and parent-child interaction therapy through Community Services Group. She is also a certified forest therapy guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.

Elizabeth Williams ’07, Boulder, Colo., was appointed in January as the new inside sales manager for Aquatherm North America. She previously served as national sales administration manager for Viega LLC.

Jordan Rothrock ’10, Denver, Colo., was recently promoted to senior director of brand and creative for the Colorado Rapids. Jordan has been with the Rapids for six seasons developing the club’s brand and visual identity.

Mark Watson, Jr. ’10, Ravenna, Ohio, joined the Kent State University Golden Flashes in January as running backs coach and offensive recruiting coordinator.

Kaela Moore ’13, Inman, Kan., earned a Master of Business Administration from Emporia State University in December.

Treyton DeVore ’18, Kansas City, Mo., has published his book “Freelance Finances Made Simple,” a reference guide for managing money as a self-employed creative.

Gabe Padilla ’17, Wichita, Kan., graduated from Newman University this December with a Master of Science in Education.

Myron Moncur, Jr. ’19, San Jose, Calif., recently published his book “Conquering Community College,” a resource for students wanting to get the most out of the community college experience.

Rhianna Smith Reed ’19, McPherson, assistant registrar at McPherson College, earned a Master of Business Administration from Emporia State University in December. Her colleagues in the academic affairs office enjoyed celebrating with her!

Diamond Blaylock-Norris Marshall ’20, Tulsa, Okla., was sworn in March 20 as a new member of the Tulsa Public Schools’ board of education, representing District 2. Diamond was recently featured in the Tulsa World article, “Meet the newest member of the TPS board of education: A 24-year-old community organizer.”

Antonio Snyder ’21, Columbia, Mo., has been named the inaugural director of owl spirit at William Woods University. Antonio’s work includes building and coaching a new competitive cheerleading program.

www.mcpherson.edu/alumni-update

MARRIAGES

Alumna art featured in Melhorn Hall McPherson College recently acquired a painting by Italia Venegas ’20. The artwork for the college’s permanent collection was purchased using funds from the Environmental Stewardship, Education, and Outreach grant secured by Professor Jonathan Frye. The painting, which will hang in Melhorn Hall, features lines from a poem that says, “We are corn kernels, from the same cob, from the same root, on the same path.” Venegas earned a bachelor’s degree in studio arts and graphic design and works for McClure Creative in Wichita, specializing in motion design, broadcast animation, and video production.

ANNIVERSARIES

70 YEARS

50 YEARS

Sean Grandin ’11 to Lisa Poole Vallejo, Calif., November 12, 2022.

Mona (Hale) Lange-Wisdom ’12 and Jessy Wisdom ‘11 McPherson, May 25, 2023.

Robert ’53 and Rowena Merkey Wilson ‘54 Wichita, Kan., March 22, 2023.

Glen ’73 and Carol Flory Kussart ‘74 Cerro Gordo, Ill., October 28, 2022.

Coen Harold to Abby and Chase Ozbun ‘12 Rose Hill, Kan., March 6, 2023.

Devirous Daniel, Jr. to Ruth and Devirous Johnson ‘14 Gilbert, Ariz., December 26, 2022.

Jelani to Kevin ‘15 and Makenzie Frank Aka ‘16 Sellersburg, Ind., November 9, 2022.

Harlow Victoria to Nathan and Mazen Pierce to Adam ‘15 and

Ellie James to Luis and Sarah Lanter Lovato ’16 Canton, Kan., May 16, 2023.

Adley Frances to Chandler ‘17 and Callie Atkins Dohe ‘17 Ottawa, Kan., December 21, 2022.

Dempsey Shade to Trenton and Sawyer Pittenger Ptacek ‘17 Russell, Kan., November 12, 2022.

Myla Jewel to Grant ‘19 and Reganne Barker Barrett ‘21 Hutchinson, Kan., May 6, 2023.

Aliza Lee to Suzy and Austin Bohanon ’10 Wichita, Kan., April 15, 2023

Avis Smith Dadisman ’40, Chatham, Ill., May 7, 2023.

Richard “Dick” Burger ’42, Moravia, Iowa, June 5, 2023.

ImoJean Sheller Frantz ’45, McPherson, December 6, 2022.

Eloise McKnight Lichty ’46, McPherson, February 14, 2023.

Rosetta Reed Peters ’48, Adel, Iowa, December 10, 2022.

Barbara Burkholder Nordling ‘50, Lawrence, Kan., March 27, 2023.

Sylvus D. Flora ’51, Rocky Mount, Va., June 30, 2022.

Lorene Clark Moore ’52, Springfield, Mo., February 4, 2023.

Ina Ditmars Fike ’53, Mountain View, Mo., December 28, 2022.

Rowena Ikenberry Gilstrap ’53, Pfafftown, N.C., March 14, 2023.

Richard “Dick” Wagoner ’53, Perry, Iowa, March 2, 2022.

Arthur W. Benson ’55, Petaluma, Calif., April 12, 2023.

Esther Ikenberry Cotton ’55, McPherson, June 2, 2023.

Betty Jean Moore Peterson ’55, Rolling Meadows, Ill., November 8, 2022.

Doris “Jean” Jones ’56, Amarillo, Texas, November 6, 2022.

Donald D. Moeller ’56, Overland Park, Kan., December 23, 2022.

E. Dale Gillogly ’57, Ottawa, Kan., January 10, 2023.

Delbert G. Hayes ‘57, Geneseo, Kan., May 27, 2023.

Norma Goering Moeller ’57, Overland Park, Kan., December 14, 2022.

Janice Nance O’Dell ’57, Longwood, Fla., December 24, 2022.

Louis L. Roberts ’57, Norton, Kan., February 25, 2023.

Delmar G. Senger ’57, Olathe, Kan., May 31, 2023.

Edward Wolf ’57, Ithaca, N.Y., March 11, 2023.

C. Dwight Oltman ’58, Asheville, N.C., December 30, 2022.

Joe D. Rich ’58, Ottawa, Kan., January 11, 2023.

Evan R. Johnson ’59, O’Fallon, Mo., December 2, 2022.

Terry N. Thoreen ’62, Greenville, Ohio, January 11, 2023.

John W. Dilley ’63, McPherson, April 6, 2023.

Larry E. Holmes ’64, Eight Mile, Ala., November 30, 2022.

Tom F. McAdams ’67, Morristown, Ind., January 31, 2023.

Robert “Bob” Theilmann ’67, Tempe, Ariz., January 28, 2023.

Sharon Johnston Blank ’68, Hutchinson, Kan., May 2, 2023.

James S. Bower ’68, Palmyra, Pa., December 2, 2022.

Harold “Hal” Wright ’71, McPherson, March 9, 2023.

Diana Garza Hite ’72, Goshen, Ind., December 20, 2022.

Ann Tannreuther ’74, Waterloo, Iowa, May 13, 2023.

Jeff A. Farrell ’75, Fishers, Ind., April 2, 2023.

Doyle R. Ramsey ’78, Hutchinson, Kan., November 25, 2022.

David F. Kinzie ’85, Leavenworth, Kan., December 4, 2022.

Todd M. Wilson ’94, Vernal, Utah, October 13, 2022.

Matthew D. Ayers ’08, McPherson, May 17, 2023.

Dana Morse Peterson ’09, Great Bend, Kan., January 14, 2023.

Justin D. Biegger ’14, Boulder, Colo., December 5, 2022.

LOSS OF LONG-TIME RETIRED MC EMPLOYEES

Betty Barchesky, retired secretary for academic affairs

McPherson, March 6, 2023.

Laura Eells, professor emerita, McPherson, April 29, 2023.

Jeanne Smith, professor emerita, McPherson, March 13, 2023.

Patty Wheaton, retired secretary to the president, McPherson, December 26, 2022.

Edward Dean Wolf died in Ithaca, N.Y., on March 11, 2023, at age 87. Dr. Wolf was a modern-day Renaissance man who helped Cornell University lead the nation in nanofabrication. He graduated magna cum laude with a BS in chemistry from McPherson College in 1957. As a class president, he earned varsity letters in basketball, tennis, and football as an all-conference quarterback. He received his Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Iowa State University and did his postdoctoral studies at Princeton University and UC Berkeley. Dr. Wolf spent 13 years at the Hughes Research Laboratories in Malibu, leading a pioneering research and development group in scanning electron beam surface physics. He joined Cornell in 1978 as the first director of the National Research and Resource Facility for Submicron Structures. He was responsible for designing and staffing what has become the Cornell Nanoscale Science and Technology Facility, a leading national facility for nanofabrication. He was co-inventor of the Biolistic “gene gun” for genetic transformation. After retiring, he founded the Cornell Office for Technology Access and Business Assistance and testified before the House Subcommittee on Science and Technology about university-industry relations. Dr. Wolf was inducted as a Fellow into the National Academy of Inventors in 2015. As a collector/restorer of historical telescopes, he was especially pleased when the Beijing Planetarium purchased his telescope collection in 2016.

Dr. Edward D. Wolf ‘57