Issuu

M I D L MAGAZINE AND SPRING 2021

L E A D E RS H I P T EAM

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jody Horner, President

Amber Barton ‘02

Mark Fahleson

Jodi Benjamin, Vice President for Finance and Administration

Mary Shannon

Steve Feye ‘76

Rico Munn ‘93

Peggy Hall

Dr. Lawrence Chatters, Vice President for Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Ofﬁcer

Jamie Williams

Ryan Hendrickson

Jody Horner

Roger Lambourn ‘72 - Retiring

Courtney Thomsen, Director of Athletics

Randy Eikmeier ‘82 - Retiring

Tom Walker ‘81

Dr. Susan Kruml, Vice President for Academic Affairs Merritt Nelson, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Marketing

ED I TOR Eric Taylor

DES I GN BLK.59 Design Group

CON TRI B U TORS Brent Wasenius (‘86) Ron Petak

MI D LA N D U N I V ERSIT Y Ofﬁce of Institutional Advancement 900 N Clarkson Fremont, NE 68025 alumni@midlandu.edu Midlandu.edu/alumni

NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mary Shannon serves as President/CEO of Kansas Big Brothers and Big Sisters. She started at KSBBBS in 2013 as Chief Development Officer before being promoted to President in her third year. KSBBBS serves more than 2,600 youth across Kansas and Mary has played a significant role in transforming the organization’s culture and financial sustainability. Mary began her career in nonprofits in the late 1990’s after serving on the American Red Cross Board. Throughout the last 25 years, she has raised millions of dollars for the organizations she serves, as well as helped transform them for sustainability and growth. Amber Barton has nearly 20 years of banking experience at Pinnacle Bank, where she currently serves as Senior Vice President. Her experience includes commercial and small business lending. A native of Shenandoah, Iowa, Amber graduated from Midland University with degrees in business and economics. She is an active member of the Fremont community, having served on boards for Fremont Area Habitat for Humanity, Fremont Area United Way, Care Corps Family Services, and Fremont’s Planning Commission.

Letter

F RO M TH E PRESIDEN T I think we can all agree that the past year in higher education has been unlike any other we have experienced. It began in March of 2020 when institutions across the nation were forced to switch to remote learning due to COVID-19. It still breaks my heart that we weren’t able to share so many of those special moments in person with our students, especially graduation with our seniors. Higher education had a much different look in the fall and Midland University was no different. In spite of many new challenges, the 2020-21 school year was an exciting time for Midland University. We welcomed nearly 1600 undergraduate, graduate, and adult learners to our Fremont campus, Omaha location, and online. We also continued to press forward with our vision to be “Relentlessly Relevant” by adding new academic and extracurricular activities to support our students’ growth.

We were so blessed to be able to welcome our students back to campus, with a few new protocols in place. With the safety of our students as our highest priority, we were able to bring students back in the classroom, athletes back to the ﬁeld and the court, our performers back on stage, and our graduates received their diplomas in person in a commencement ceremony in May. What a great way to end the year! I am so proud of our students, faculty, and staff for their perseverance and diligence. I know there were challenges and so much of what used to be normal for everyone now had changed, but in typical Warrior spirit, they made the best of every situation. We have also experienced social unrest in our country over the past year and I am so proud of our students who took part in peaceful protests over the summer to take a stand against so many of these injustices. I am also proud that our University and our Board of Directors approved a Resolution of Commitment to Anti-Racist Practices and Policies. We are so proud of the diversity that exists on our campus and our belief is that all students, faculty, and staff should enjoy a welcoming, open, and safe environment. We’re excited to share just a few of the highlights from the last year in this annual magazine, and hope that you enjoy reading about our students, faculty, and alumni.

Warm Regards,

Jody Horner President, Midland University Letter from the President

Dr. Lawrence Chatters

Aulmni: Vernon Meierhenry

Premier Dance Company

2025 Strategic Plan

Midland Spirit Family

Student Spotlight: Monica Weber

Alumni: Making a Career at Midland

Table

CGPS: Graduate Certiﬁcates

Diversity Mural

Dave Gillespie

Women’s Flag Football

Alumni: CJ Anderson and Alex Knobbe

Nancy Erickson

Student Spotlight: Carter Welch

Business Partners

O F CO N T E N TS

FOR M ORE INFO RMATI O N, VI SI T O U R WEBSIT E: MID L AND U. ED U

Table of Contents

Dr. Lawrence Chatters CHI EF DIVERSITY OFFICER In another step toward its goal of an inclusive campus environment, Midland University named Dr. Lawrence Chatters as its new Chief Diversity Officer in the fall of 2020. Dr. Chatters has served as Vice President for Student Affairs since January of 2019 and will continue to serve in that capacity along with his role as Chief Diversity Officer. As Chief Diversity Officer, Dr. Chatters is working to expand on Midland’s continuing pursuit of inclusivity throughout campus. Midland is the most diverse college in the state of Nebraska with 31% of its student population from diverse and racial ethnic backgrounds. “As the most diverse institution in the state, this is a logical step for us,” Dr. Chatters said. “We celebrate our diversity and what comes with that diversity. What makes our Midland community unique is that we have people coming together from all over the world to get an education. It adds to the richness of a liberal arts education.”

Dr. Lawrence Chatters and President Jody Horner.

Since becoming VP for Student Affairs, Dr. Chatters has fostered a community of equity and inclusion through student organizations and events. During the 2019-20 school year, Dr. Chatters helped introduce the Together: Bridges into the Future series that featured speakers from diverse cultural backgrounds providing discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion. He also helped launch Midland’s first Equity and Inclusion Summit in February of 2020 where attendees were presented with the opportunity to learn how to create inclusive spaces and develop ways they can incorporate inclusion into their everyday lives. Midland’s second Equity and Inclusion Summit was held in March of 2021. Dr. Chatters is looking forward to expanding on many of the ideals Midland already has in place. “We have been focusing on equity and inclusion and doing things that most schools our size are not doing,” Dr. Chatters said. “We are moving in the right direction and this is a solidification of that progress. It’s exciting to be a representative of the movement we are making to ensure Midland is a more inclusive space for everyone.” Midland University President Jody Horner said the university is focused on its role as an innovator in equity and inclusion among its students. “We take great pride in being the most diverse institution in the state,” Horner said. “With his background and the work he has done at Midland regarding equity and inclusion, Dr. Chatters is a perfect choice to lead in this role. He will continue to develop and grow the great programs he has already put in place at Midland.” As a 2002 Midland graduate, Dr. Chatters understands that inclusivity and equity needs to exist for all students. “I arrived here as an African-American male on a campus that didn’t have a lot of diversity at that time,” Dr. Chatters said. “I looked around and didn’t see many people who looked like me and I felt a little lost. There might be students on campus that experience that same feeling, and I want them to know that there is an office that will work to make them feel like they belong. That’s my goal.” “I’m excited for this opportunity and I believe this is the right time. We are uniquely positioned to take the lead on being the most inclusive campus in the state and I’m going to be relying on our entire Midland family to build a brand that is inclusive. When people see that “M” I want them to think of inclusivity.” Dr. Lawrence Chatters

A Lasting Legacy

VERNON MEIERHENRY’S MEMORY LIVES ON THROUGH GREAT-GRANDDAUGHTER’S BOOK Hannah Dosch has preserved the memory of her greatgrandfather through a book. Amy Dosch will help carry on his legacy when she attends Midland University. Hannah’s book, “Thirteen Missing Letters” profiles the short, but impactful life of her great-grandfather, Vernon Meierhenry, who attended Midland for three years in the early 1940s and was killed when his plane crashed while he was serving in World War II. Hannah’s younger sister, Amy, will be attending Midland University this fall. She becomes the first family member since Vernon to attend Midland. “I may have never considered Midland if it were not for my great grandfather,” Amy said. “I am extremely proud to be one of his few descendants and am excited to study in some of the same buildings he may have. I think he and my grandfather (Mark Meierhenry) would be proud to know I will be a Warrior!”

“I think he and my grandfather would be so proud to know I will be a Warrior!” -AMY DOSCH Mark Meierhenry was the only child of Vernon and his young wife, Mary Casey. Mark was born two weeks after his father’s plane went down and he spent many years wanting to learn more about the father he never met. In the summer of 2018, Mark approached Hannah, an aspiring writer, to gauge her interest in researching and writing a book Alumni: Vernon Meierhenry

“I think visiting campus made Vernon’s story more real for all of us.” -HANNAH DOSCH about Vernon. “He knew I was going to be studying English in college, so he asked me about working on this project,” Hannah said. “I didn’t know much about Vernon, or his family.” Hannah’s research began by sorting through a box of newspaper clippings, photos, and other miscellaneous items. It eventually led her to the Midland University campus where a trip to the library and a visit with Kristen Drake, Alumni Manager at Midland, helped to fill in some of the blanks. “I brought my grandparents (Mark and Judy) with me and it was great to see the campus in person, rather than just reading about it,” Hannah said. “It might have been the first time my grandfather was on campus, so we really took time to take everything in. I think visiting campus made Vernon’s story more real for all of us.” Vernon started his freshman year at Midland in the fall of 1940. As he excelled in the classroom, he also became a star on the football field as quarterback for the famed “Little Giants” football team. That team finished the 1941 season with a 10-0 record and was prepared to face Pacific Lutheran in a bowl game in Eugene, Oregon in December. But that appearance never happened as the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th halted any further

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activities. It was the first unbeaten season in Midland football history and the “Little Giants” were enshrined in the Midland Athletic Hall of Fame in 1991. Vernon was inducted into the “M” club for his efforts on the gridiron. It was during his time at Midland that Vernon met Mary Casey. She worked at a local restaurant that Vernon would often visit while he was working at a nearby gas station. Vernon and Mary began dating in October of 1942 and were married August 11th of 1943. Earlier that year, Vernon was one of 12 Midland students who were called into active duty, and he was stationed in Carbondale, Illinois. Four days after their wedding, Vernon started flying lessons at the Army Air Corps Pre-flight school in Ellington Field, Texas. Vernon would eventually graduate from the Army Air Force Bombardier School in April of 1944 and was later stationed at Drew Field in Tampa, Florida. On September 26th, Vernon was deployed to Sudbury, England and over the next 19 days he would take part in eight missions to Germany. On the morning of October 15th, Vernon and his crew were set to fly to Koln, Germany. But the plane encountered problems shortly after takeoff when an engine went out and the plane lacked sufficient power to gain altitude. Despite best efforts by the crew, the plane crashed into a nearby farmhouse, killing all eight crew members aboard. Mary Casey gave birth to her son two weeks later. The next day, she received a telegram informing her of the death of her husband. It’s a story that has a tragic ending, but it’s a story that Hannah is glad she had the chance to share with others. “My great-grandmother eventually remarried, so none of us knew much about Vernon,” Hannah said. “He was such

“I knew my sister wanted to be at a smaller college, so after visiting campus, I put a bug in her ear about Midland,” Hannah said. Amy Dosch has a love for music and will be able to continue that passion at Midland as part of the music program. “After meeting with Rex Barker (Director of Instrumental Music) and seeing his enthusiasm for college musicians, I knew that the music piece would be a good fit for me,” Amy said. “Another factor was the campus size and community. I like that Midland is involved in community service and that is very important to me. My initial on-campus visit was a big factor in my decision because the admissions team did such a great job of making me feel welcomed on campus.”

a prominent person in my grandfather’s life. I think this book gave me, and our whole family, an opportunity to learn more about him as a person.” Hannah recently finished her junior year at Bethany College in Mankato, Minnesota. She spent the better part of three summers writing the book, finishing in May of 2020. Her grandfather would pass away two months later. “He never wanted to see the book until it was finished,” Hannah said. “It was a blessing he was able to see the book finished. My grandmother is very proud of the work I did and she even painted the cover for me.” Writing a book has always been an aspiration for Hannah, but putting Vernon’s story on paper went much deeper. “It gave me a chance to spend summers with my grandparents as we learned more about Vernon,” she said. “I was able to give my grandfather his father back and have his story be known.” Her book also sparked interest in Midland for her younger sister.

Amy is also grateful for the opportunity to carry on the legacy set by her great-grandfather more than 80 years ago. “As Hannah worked on the biography of Vernon, I realized how important he was as a leader on campus. The story of Vernon and the other Gold Star Men is not only part of Midland University’s history, but also its culture of service,” she said. The opportunity to share the story of her great-grandfather is one Hannah cherishes. She’s hopeful that his story might have an impact on others. “Everyone has a story, and that story can impact so many people,” she said. “Everyone knows who Vern is now, and they couldn’t have said that before. I hope people are able to read and appreciate Vernon’s story and maybe they will want to learn more about their own family.” “Thirteen Missing Letters” is available for purchase at https://bit.ly/2QHL9Pn.

Alumni: Vernon Meierhenry

Express Yourself PREMIER DANCE COMPANY PROVIDES CREATIVE OUTLET FOR STUDENTS Midland University’s Premier Dance Company is giving students opportunities to express themselves in creative and unique ways. Since its inception six years ago, Premier works to not only help students thrive on the dance floor, but as teachers and leaders. “Premier focuses on the studio and artistic side of dance,” Katie Speicher, Director of Dance at Midland, said. The team is centered around teaching, choreographing, performing, and improvisation work. It’s great for students who don’t want to pursue the athletic side of dance, but want to be teachers or own their own studio one day. Not a lot of colleges offer extracurricular dance performance opportunities, so Midland is very unique in that aspect.” Premier got its start thanks to former dancer, and current assistant dance coach Amber (Wilson) Mason. Mason now

10 Midland Magazine

operates her own dance studio in Missouri Valley, Iowa. “Amber was excited about dancing at Midland, but she didn’t want to be part of the Game Day or Warrior Wildfire Competition team,” Speicher said. “Her dream was to create a dance company where students could dance and train, and she started what Premier has grown into today.” Premier has presented a platform for dancers who want to express themselves, but not through a spirit squad or competition squad. “It has allowed me to be free with my dance and really express myself,” junior Madison Eich said. “I want the audience to be able to see and share in the emotion, and Premier has allowed me to do that.” They are also given the opportunity to express themselves as teachers. Speicher said the group will visit local schools and studios where they will teach workshops, help with

classes, and lend their expertise at choreography. “We try to be very hands-on with the community,” Speicher said. “We obviously haven’t been able to do that as much this past year, but we did get the opportunity to partner with a local studio and work on video projects to make sure we still gained that experience.” Speicher believes the knowledge gained through teaching and working with others will serve these students well in their future endeavors. “It gives them a chance to lead, be a teacher, and make decisions on the fly. Those are skills that can translate outside of the dance world,” she said. Freshman Katelyn Coon said Premier has helped her grow as a dancer, student, and individual. “Contemporary dance has always been my favorite and has allowed me to be creative,” she said. “It’s really helped me break out of my shell.” Speicher believes that Premier has, and will continue, to help many students who would like to pursue a career in the dance industry. “The majority of Premier dancers will continue dancing, coaching, and teaching in some capacity,” she said. “From a dance studio owner's perspective, they want to know they’re hiring dancers who can not only

perform, but teach and choreograph as well. These are the types of skills studios are looking for.” Premier has provided a positive opportunity for both Midland students, and their teacher. “I grew up with studio dancing and I’ve taught and choreographed, so Premier is near and dear to my heart,” Speicher said. “It’s been a great recruiting tool as well. We’ve performed and taught in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Colorado and that’s been really helpful in attracting some awesome talent.”

“It has allowed me to be free with my dance and really express myself.” -MADISON EICH Premier Dance Company 11

INTRO DU CTI ON The mission of Midland University has held fast, to inspire people to learn and lead in the world with purpose. With this mission as our foundation and a vision to be “relentlessly relevant” we look to the future with hope, ambition, and dedication to ensuring that Midland University will continue to be a great place for students for generations to come.

ENSURE RELEVANT LEARNING

Midland University is a private, liberal arts institution that is called to deliver higher education that holds fast to our deep roots and core values, while also maintaining relevance in an ever-changing global environment. Now more than ever before, we recommit to rising to the challenge of providing a learning environment that is responsive to the needs of current and future generations of students, many of whom will come to higher education at different points in their lives, who will seek increased or new skill sets, and who will desire access that breaks the mold of the traditional four-year, in-person, synchronous instructional model. Midland University will ensure relevant learning by: 1. Implementing our University-wide learning goals (DRIVE) beyond academics to include residence life and cocurricular offerings. 2. Accelerating the reach and scope of the Warrior Skills program across the student experience. 3. Increasing the number of opportunities for students to complete internships, practicums, student teaching, and other field-based learning. 4. Enhancing student career preparation by implementing DRIVE throughout the academic curriculum and ensuring students can articulate their experience and value to employers.

This will be accomplished through the following strategies: • Ensure Relevant Learning • Create Dynamic Experiences • Drive Innovative Growth • Future-Proof Ourselves

CREATE DYNAMIC EXPERIENCES

At our core, we desire that all students, faculty, and staff of Midland University feel as though they have found somewhere they belong and can thrive. Midland University is known for providing students with dynamic experiences in extra-curricular offerings; attracting students who intensely pursue their passions. We know, however, that dynamic experiences go well beyond the court, field, or stage, and can and should be integrated into the classroom, community, and extend throughout the campus in how we interact and support one another. Midland University will create dynamic experiences by: 1. Fostering a campus community that holds fast to an unwavering commitment that all are welcome and that everyone feels safe bringing their whole self to this place. Through intentional diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, we will strive to create a connected environment that inspires the broader community to become more inclusive. 2. Incorporating additional High Impact Practices (HIP) into the classroom. 3. Improving facilities with an emphasis on student spaces and enhanced curb appeal. 4. Developing talent at all levels and engaging employees in meaningful cross-collaborative work. We endeavor to become one of the Omaha metro’s “best places to work”.

STRATEGY

OU R MI SSI O N

O UR V I S I O N

Midland University inspires people to learn and lead in the world with purpose.

To provide relevant, innovative, and dynamic learning experiences for our students by working from the marketplace back to ensure their career readiness. We strive every day to be relentlessly relevant.

DRIVE INNOVATIVE GROWTH

Students of the future will learn differently, and seek educational offerings that may not fit a traditional fouryear undergraduate degree model. This statement is not a prediction, but is known; expedited in part by the global pandemic. Midland University will drive innovative growth by: 1. Growing our online presence in order to serve more adult learners in graduate or professional studies. 2. Offering more customized learning options and increased flexibility in our current programs. 3. Exploring advanced degree programs in relevant growth-oriented disciplines. 4. Leaning into our vision of being relentlessly relevant by working from the market-place back to identify new programs that meet market needs.

2025

FUTURE-PROOF OURSELVES

Midland University has successfully ridden the waves of change in higher education at a national and regional level, even while faced with challenges that have devastated other like institutions. The sustainability, and ultimately success of Midland University in recent years is one that we do not take for granted. As we look out on the horizon, we must continue to “future-proof” our institution by creating processes, methods, and innovative models that keep us relevant, financially sound, and aligned with the needs of future generations of students. We will future-proof Midland University by: 1. Enhancing our brand. As we continue to strengthen our unique offerings, we will also seek opportunities to enhance our brand recognition and value proposition to our stakeholders. We will do this by breaking from traditional messaging and highlighting recognized areas unique to Midland, such as our innovation, nimbleness, relevance, and culture. 2. Engaging with external stakeholders; alumni, funding partners, community leaders, and businesses, to connect their strategic visions and support to our current and future programs. Pursuing strategic partnerships that unlock new student opportunities, identify unexplored educational offerings, and support reduced student debt will be key to our future success. 3. Leveraging technology to create engaging learning experiences, efficient systems that serve our students well, and enhanced sustainability and cost-savings across the university. 4. Enhancing retention services to fully align university resources with the current and future needs of our students.

Brandon Blum, Theo Blum, Connie Blum, Darryl Blum

WARRIOR Spirit THE BLUM FAMILY

Midland University is a family tradition for the Blums. Darryl Blum is a 1989 Midland graduate while his wife Connie (Schlautman) graduated in 1990. Sons Theo and Brandon have carried on the Midland tradition as Theo graduated in May and Brandon will be entering his junior year. It's great to see the Warrior Spirit alive and well in the Blum family!

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Class & Major: Junior, Human Services Hometown: Columbus, Nebraska Campus Activities: Theatre, Choir, Clef Dwellers, Arts Admissions Ambassador, Secretary of Circle K, Council Member of Black Student Union, Warrior Bible Study, Alpha Psi Omega, Student Representative for the Equity and Inclusion Summit.

Why did you choose to attend Midland? Midland has an “Arts for All” mentality and this mentality allows students to be a part of the many disciplines of the arts. I have known Dan Hays (Director of Theatre) since I was 16 years old and he’s known my family since before I was born. Through Dan’s encouragement, and the ability to participate in as many arts areas as possible, I made my decision.

What are your plans after graduation? My plan is to apply at Boys Town. I would love to work with kids and get to know them for who they are, as opposed to what the world says they are. I also want to perform at the Omaha Community Playhouse and other theaters in Omaha, as well as work with the Omaha Children’s Choir. I also have a dream to audition for a Broadway production.

Monica WEB ER

How has Midland changed you? It has changed me for the best.

What memories of Midland will you always carry with you? I will always remember the relationships. Not only those with other students, but I have had great moments and breakthroughs with various professors and have gotten to know many staff members. Student Spotlight 15

Working at Home MIDLAND ALUMNI RETURN TO THEIR ROOTS Keith Kramme recalls visiting Midland University as a high school senior during January of 1983. As Kramme and his father got off the plane in Nebraska, it was cold with snow on the ground. A far different climate than what the two had left in Plano, Texas. “My dad said to me, ‘Well, this is going to be a quick trip,’” Kramme said. “My parents were convinced it would be a short visit because of the cold and the snow.“ The wintery mix didn't bother Kramme. Not only did he decide to enroll at MU -- then Midland Lutheran College -- he earned his degree in 1987. After working in Minnesota and Wisconsin for five years, he returned to the school as a part-time sports information director. Since that time, he has filled a variety of roles for MU, including athletic director, softball coach and his current position as student success advisor. “It has been a pretty good gig so far,” Kramme said. “Like anything, there have been ups and downs, but at the end of the day I've enjoyed the people I work with and it has been a great atmosphere. I used to tell my players that if (softball) isn't something you enjoy, then find something else. I tell myself the same thing. If I don't enjoy my work, I need to find something else. But at the end of day, the people I've surrounded myself with have made it very worthwhile to continue working here. Midland is all about the people and all about the relationships you build.” Kramme is just one of several alumni that are now working at the university. Lori (Wurdeman) Ethier, who graduated in 2007 and is now the Associate Vice President for Undergraduate Admissions, also came to Midland from Texas. The El Paso native said it has brought her great satisfaction working at her alma mater. “I wouldn't be built professionally or personally the way that I am if it wasn't for Midland,“ she said. “It has been such a big part of my life. It has been a great experience as a staff member to help students when they are here and help them grow.”

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Kramme and Ethier both came to Midland to play intercollegiate athletics. Kramme for basketball and Ethier for golf. Ethier was the 2006 Great Plains Athletic Conference's Women's Golfer of the Year. Athletics was also part of the appeal for Brenda (Kalisek) Wilberding, who graduated in 2007, to attend Midland. She competed in track and volleyball for the Warriors. During her time at Logan View High School, she was a teammate of a future USA Olympic standout. “I was Jordan Larson's setter. That is my one claim to fame in my whole life,” she said with a chuckle.

“Midland is all about the people and all about the relationships you build.” -KE I TH KRAMME After earning her degree at MU, Wilberding worked at Eagle Distributing. She then spent time as a manager for the HyVee floral, and wine and spirits department before eventually becoming the grocery store's internal and external affairs manager. Although she enjoyed her time at Hy-Vee, Wilberding was interested in returning to her alma mater. “I wanted to come back to Midland because I had a wonderful experience while I was there,” she said. “When I started looking outside of what I was doing, I looked at the different missions of the

FO R MOR E INFOR M AT ION, V ISIT OU R W EBSIT E: M ID L ANDU. E DU

Midland alumni currently working at the University

businesses I was considering. Midland’s values were important to me. They were very welcoming with families and wanted you to have your whole family be a part of the Midland community. That really drew me in there. I knew of others working at Midland and they had told me about their experiences as well.” Nick Schreck, assistant professor of Digital Marketing, didn't compete in intercollegiate athletics at MU, but he was heavily involved in campus activities. As a student, he served as public address announcer for volleyball and women's basketball. “That's something I still do,” the Arlington native said. Schreck had various options when he graduated from high school in 2007. He looked at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio and also considered Texas Christian University and Doane. Midland offered him a spot in the Anderson Leader program, however, and that made the decision easy. “That

was a real draw for me,” he said. “I made the choice and I think it ended up being the right choice.” Following his graduation from MU, Schreck worked five years for the Fremont-based company Sycamore Education. “They have clients in more than 40 countries around the world,” Schreck said. “I did sales and marketing for them for a while and I also led the customer support and training teams.” During that time, Midland hired Schreck as an adjunct speech instructor. It was a great match. “I loved the idea of teaching and helping students achieve their professional goals,“ he said. Eventually, the university had an opening for a full-time faculty position. “I was fortunate enough to be offered that position and I accepted,” Schreck said. “It has been amazing.” Schreck said not being that far removed from his days as a student has helped him relate well with his classes. “That has been a huge part of it,” he said. “We have more in common

Working at Home 17

Keith Kramme (with wife, Lisa)

about our upbringing and how things work with technology, especially in the classes that I teach. Social media is a heavy component of that so being able to understand and connect with students and understand the things that they are talking about plays a huge role in that experience. It has some drawbacks, too, but for the most part it has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Brenda Wilberding (right)

Lori Ethier

As a student, Ethier was intent on becoming an athletic director. “That was my vision and plan, but I feel that a lot of the things that I do in my role are similar to what I was imagining or dreaming. There is a lot of coordination, working with people and pulling people together,” she said. “It is just a blessing I get to do it for Midland. Now, I really can't envision being out of higher education.” Ethier said teamwork around campus makes her job enjoyable. “I think a lot of times, people think Midland is a small school with small opportunities, but we have such a large footprint here,” she said. “That is what is so special to me. We might be a small campus in Fremont, but we represent 43 states and 19 countries and that doesn't happen by chance. We have to make it an inclusive environment for everyone. I would say the same thing on our faculty and staff side. If I'm working on a student issue, there isn't an office here I can't call and ask for their input or help. That starts with leadership. My boss is Merritt Nelson (Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing) and (that goes) all the way up to President (Jody) Horner. They are all passionate about that.” Kramme has a caseload of about 200 students. “I help guide them and partner with them through to graduation,“ he said. “I will advocate for any student as long as they are willing to partner with me and do their part. I will help get them where they want to be.”

Nick Schreck

Kramme also serves as a liaison between the academic and athletic departments. He retired as softball coach in 2015 with a career record of 533-496-1 in 20 seasons. “I take whatever concerns and deadlines there are to the athletic meetings and then I take the coaches' concerns back to the student success center,” he said. “Dave Gillespie (Midland University Director of Athletics) has allowed me to continue to be part of the

athletic administration team. It is the best of both worlds. I do miss coaching, but it was time to be done. This way I still get to be an active part of what is integral to Midland and that is athletic offerings.” Wilberding said she works with Midland's business partners. “We have about 120 businesses in Fremont and the surrounding communities that support our students monetarily, but also in other ways,” she said, noting that the businesses mentor, help provide employment opportunities or help with sponsorship of events. Wilberding also does community relations. “I get to connect my passion for Fremont with the passion I have for Midland and our students,” she said. “It is a pretty awesome gig. The Fremont community is amazing in their support for Midland. I also help with our nonprofit partners.” Schreck has helped provide some national connections for his students. “We had three professional sports teams work with our classes last semester,” he said, referring to the Philadelphia Phillies, Nashville Predators and Tampa Bay Lightning. “I just want to help our students to be successful,“ he said. “We are able to provide our students some pretty neat experiences. I think they are getting better jobs as a result and research shows they are getting paid more. Those are just really cool things to be a part of.” Schreck said once people are part of the Midland community, they don’t lose that connection. “We will have prospective students come in for meetings and their parents went here and even their grandparents may have gone here,” he said. “They'll know and ask to see Keith Kramme or Janet Lack (Coordinator of the Academic Resource Center) or want to know if Rita Bristol (business professor) is here. That is an incredible experience for them. Not only are they back on campus, but they are reconnecting with people that made their experience so special.”

“Not only are they back on campus, but they are reconnecting with people that made their experience so special.” -NICK SCHRECK player Jay Ethier, on a blind date set up by some friends when she lived in Beegle Hall. Kramme met his wife, Lisa, when both were freshmen. “Whenever I told people back home that I was going to school in Nebraska, they said I would meet a smalltown farm girl and marry her,” he said. “Sure enough, that is what happened.” Ethier said her family enjoys going to sporting events to cheer on the Warriors. “We wear the Midland logo with pride,” she said. Wilberding agrees. She couldn't be happier to be part of the Midland team. “It is not just a job that I get to go to, but it is an incredible part of my family,” she said. “My kids love coming to events. We love watching athletics and taking in the arts. I get to help people every day. It is a privilege for me to go to work.”

Those experiences include significant life events. Schreck met his wife, Katie, at Midland. Wilberding's husband, Brian, is a teacher in the Fremont Public Schools system and also is a MU graduate. Ethier met her husband, former MU football

Working at Home 19

Getting Ahead CERTIFICATES PROVIDE PATH TO CAREER ADVANCEMENT Whether looking to further themselves in their career, or potentially earn their MBA, Midland University’s graduate level certificates are another avenue to help individuals reach their professional goals. Individuals can use those certificates to advance in their careers and taking three courses, along with a capstone project, can allow them to earn enough credits for an MBA. Todd Conkright, Dean of the Dunklau School of Business at Midland, said the certificates will offer students more versatility than in the past. “We always had concentrations in the MBA program where you had to be enrolled as an MBA student, take specific classes, then earn your 12 credits,” he said. “For certificates, you don’t have to be enrolled as an MBA student. We’re seeing a bit of a trend in the MBA world where credentialing and stackable certificates are seen in a lot of graduate programs. You may have people who have been in

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business for a long time, but don’t have a specialization in something they might need to move up the ranks. They can come in and get that certificate and it will benefit them in their job. If they come back and earn another certificate, they’re already halfway to an MBA. Either way, they’re getting something valuable.” Midland’s Graduate Certificate program, which rolled out in January of 2021, currently offers six certificates (Accounting, Business Intelligence & Data Analytics, Entrepreneurial Leadership, Finance, Marketing Management, Project Management). There is also an additional certificate for business partners. Midland has a partnership with Valmont Industries where Valmont employees can go through a leadership development program at Valmont, then take one of Midland’s courses in management and leadership, and gain an applied leadership

FO R MOR E INFOR M AT ION, V ISIT OU R W EBSIT E: M ID L ANDU. E DU

certificate. Midland also has a partnership with Nebraska Methodist College where students take three courses through Methodist and one through Midland to earn their Healthcare Management Certificate. Each term lasts eight weeks and completion of a certificate will usually take three to four terms, depending on the courses required. Beginning in the fall of 2021, students will alternate each week between online and in-person classes. “It’s giving students more flexibility than they’ve had in the past,” Conkright said. “Most classes are very project-focused while there are some that might be a little more hands-on. The way the MBA program is now structured, you can start classes anytime you want. We think that with the changes we’ve made, it’s the most flexible MBA program around.”

Conkright believes that one of the biggest benefits of the new program is the ability to have professionals teaching the curriculum. “The way the program is set up, it’s all taught by practitioners,” he said. “These are individuals who are out there doing the work and bringing their expertise into the classroom.” The MBA certificate program is appealing to individuals at all stages of their professional careers. “You might have people who are looking to move up the ladder within their own company, entrepreneurs who want to better operate their business, or undergraduate students who want to go straight into an MBA,” Conkright said. “Getting certificates, or eventually an MBA, can open doors for them.” Learn more about Graduate Level Certificates by visiting cgps.midlandu.edu/academics/graduate-studies/graduatelevel-certificates/. CGPS 21

The Power “Art can be very powerful, as powerful as written or spoken words.” - Katy Jones, Assistant Professor of Art and Design at Midland University Katy Jones witnessed first-hand how true those words are. In November, Jones oversaw the completion of the diversity mural at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Omaha. It was a culmination of months of planning and painting where a group of diverse people from different backgrounds came together for one common goal. “The mural gave us an end product we could attach ourselves to,” Jones said. “People felt good enough to express what they thought it should look like and take a stand for something. I think we all connected and got a little closer.” Jones, who’s mother works at the church, was approached by Senior Pastor James Killough ‘85, about the need for artists to create paintings during outdoor worship services. As Jones searched for potential projects, she began brainstorming with students Courtney Sayer and Dominique Hocij, who both worked with Jones as part of the Blank Space Art Hub.

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“The Black Lives Movement was going on and Courtney, Dominique, and I would talk about what was happening and how we could respond,” Jones said. “We lost Dominique to a car accident in June and that was such a blow to us because she was such a gifted and talented person. Courtney and I weren’t sure if we could even keep the project going. So we started to reach out to more groups and found more people willing to help.” One of those groups was the Midland University Black Student Union. With the help of BSU, the project took shape in October when work on the 4-foot by 40-foot mural began to take form. BSU President Keenan Smith said the project started a little slowly, but gained momentum as people began to work together. “When we first started, one of my biggest concerns was would enough people show up?” Smith said. “As we did more planning, I had the opportunity to meet members of the church. During those meetings, I was able to see how excited people were to be a part of this project. I was so excited to see all the people that came out to help and the best part was working with all the kids that showed up to help.”

of Art From early October through the end of November, every Sunday involved Midland students, members of the congregation, and community members spending a couple of hours together working on the mural. It didn’t matter if they were young or old, or skilled with a paintbrush or not, Jones said the only requirement to be there was a willingness to get involved. “Courtney and I were there to mix paints, or give them advice, but we wanted them to make it personal,” Jones said. “It became a safe place where everyone could paint, but also talk. Keenan did a great job getting Midland students involved and he also reached out to a local middle school and got those kids involved. It was a big project and it wouldn’t have happened without the efforts of a lot of people.” The mural features a variety of designs and symbols that may look different in nature, but all strive to reach one common goal. “It was a way for us to bring attention to what was going on in our world,” Jones said. “It was a way for us to show our unity and be equitable and inclusive. The only way we make it through these times is for all of us to work together.”

D I V E R S I T Y MURA L BR I NGS ST UD E NTS, CO NG R EGAT ION, CO MMUNI T Y TO G E T HE R

Sayer believes the experience was educational and eyeopening for her. “Where I grew up, there’s not much diversity. Most of my life, I’ve been around people the same color as me,” she said. “It gave me a chance to build new relationships and talk with people I might never have talked to. I feel like I learned a lot and grew as a person.” Smith says projects like this are vital in helping communities and people work together. But he also understands you have to accept that not everyone will always be on the same page. “I do believe projects like this are helpful when bridging communities together, but you also have to be prepared for some backlash,” he said. “It’s important to not silence those that have an opposing view. By learning their side of the story, we can begin to find ways to break down different barriers that are causing people to act in such ways.” The mural is in place for the foreseeable future and Jones hopes it serves as a reminder to people that the work to build equity and inclusivity continues. “We are better together. I’ve always believed that, and that’s why the mural was created,” she said.

Performing Arts 23

Dave Gillespie LEGENDARY COACH, ADMINISTRATOR RETIRES AFTER 44-YEAR CAREER 24 Midland Magazine

After overseeing Midland University’s development of the largest athletic program in Nebraska, Dave Gillespie says he’s ready to devote more time to his family. Gillespie retired from Midland University as Director of Athletics at the end of May, concluding an illustrious 44-year career as a recruiter, coach, and administrator.

three daughters and five grandchildren in the Omaha area, he’s ready for that to change. “A big reason for me stepping away now is to be around more to see my grandchildren grow up,” Gillespie said. “I haven’t always been able to put my family at the center of my life and this will allow me to make that happen.”

Since arriving at Midland in May of 2013, Gillespie has guided a Warrior athletics program which has become one of the largest in the nation. Over the past eight years, Midland has added eight varsity sports, and the university’s 33 varsity sports and 924 participating student-athletes are the most of any college or university in Nebraska. “Dave has been an integral part of Midland University becoming one of the largest athletic programs in the nation,” Midland University President Jody Horner said. “His leadership and knowledge have been invaluable to our coaches, staff, and studentathletes. He is a man of integrity who treats others with respect and is an outstanding representative of Midland.”

Whether working with coaches, student-athletes, or fellow administrators, Gillespie always abided by one steadfast rule. “The most redeeming quality about a person is what kind of person they are and how they treat people with respect and dignity,” he said. “All my experiences have been great and I’ve learned something from all of them. You always want to be doing things the right way.”

His impact has gone beyond the athletic realm. He helped reestablish the Student Athlete Advisory Committee at Midland and oversaw Midland’s incorporation of the NAIA Champions of Character initiative. Gillespie and his staff also partnered with Midland Student Affairs in adding Warrior Skills in 2019. Warrior Skills is a program aimed to help students develop excellent leadership and communication skills. Gillespie is proud of the university’s growth during his tenure and appreciates the roles many have played in making that possible. “When I arrived here, it was the goal of the university to grow, and it’s been an institution-wide effort,” he said. “For us to be as effective and efficient as we have been, it truly takes a unified team effort. You have to utilize every resource you have, and that includes human resources.” Gillespie has enjoyed several successful stints as a coach and administrator at the high school and collegiate levels. His career included a nine-year run as recruiting coordinator for legendary coach Tom Osborne at the University of Nebraska, along with four years as running backs coach under Frank Solich at Nebraska. Gillespie worked as athletic director at Lincoln Southwest High School prior to his arrival at Midland. His dedication to his profession often meant making sacrifices when it came to spending more time with his family. With

“I can honestly say there hasn’t been a day where I woke up and thought I didn’t want to come to work today.” -DAVE GI LLESPIE His career path has featured many stops along the way, and the last eight years at Midland have left a significant impact on him. “I can honestly say there hasn’t been a day where I woke up and thought I didn’t want to come to work today,” he said. “And that’s primarily because of the people I work with. Our leadership team, President Horner, and our coaches and staff have just been awesome to work with. This place has been, and will continue to be very special to me. I will look back on my time at Midland being one of the highlights of my career.” Dave Gillespie 25

New Game in Town WOMEN’S FLAG FOOTBALL BECOMES 33RD VARSITY SPORT Jaison Jones has been around football his entire life. The Kansas City native played at the high school level before competing at MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas. After his playing career ended, he started his coaching career. Beginning at the Pop Warner flag-football level in 2008, he has gone on to coach high school and semipro squads, including a stint as the defensive coordinator for the Nebraska Nite Hawks of the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC).

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When Midland University Director of Athletics Dave Gillespie offered him the opportunity to coach the school’s first-ever women’s flag football team, Jones didn’t hesitate to accept the job. “Coaching women for the last seven or eight years, I knew at some point that the game would progress to different levels,” Jones said. “To have the opportunity to see women’s flag football at the collegiate level was, to me, exciting so I could see the growth of it. Just to come in and build up from the foundation, you can kind of do things your way. I was a middle school head coach, but to actually take a program

FO R MOR E INFOR M AT ION, V ISIT OU R W EBSIT E: M ID L ANDU. E DU

“Jaison is very active in growing and cultivating the sport of football for female athletes.” - DAV E GIL L ESPI E from scratch and build it into what you want seemed like more of a challenge to me and also a great opportunity.” Gillespie lauded Jones’ skills when he announced the hiring in July of 2020. "Jaison's coaching experience combined with experience coaching female athletes was something we were looking for in our first-ever head coach," Gillespie said. "He has a background in flag football from his days as a youth coach and is very active in growing and cultivating the sport of football for female athletes." Midland added women’s flag football as a varsity sport last year with the team’s inaugural season kicking off in February. An initiative to bring the sport to the collegiate level was led by a partnership between the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), National Football League (NFL) and Reigning Champs Experience (RCX). Once he was hired, Jones set out to assemble a roster. He said more than 15,000 girls play the prep sport in Florida. Las Vegas and Atlanta are among the major cities with thriving leagues. “It is just a matter of traveling to places like Florida, Atlanta and Vegas, going to combines, showcases, and camps,” Jones said. “A lot of it is that once you put yourself out there as a school (offering the sport) through social media, you have a lot of people contacting you. They’ll send in their film and other information. There are a variety of ways to get players.” Freshman Mikaela Nunez, who served as Midland’s quarterback during the season, came to Fremont from Nevada. During her senior season at Legacy High School, she

“Right after talking to him, I thought this was the school I wanted to go to, so I did.” -M I KAELA NUNEZ

was named the Las Vegas Player of the Year as a receiver. “I was going to go to Kansas Wesleyan, but one of my old teammates was coming out here,” Nunez said. “She wanted to know if I’d like to talk to Coach Jones. I told her I’d talk to him, but I probably wouldn’t change my mind.”

was trying to assemble a new roster in the middle of a pandemic. “I brought in seven girls as transfers at the semester so we’ve only been together as a group since the end of January. We have some girls playing kind of out of position, like Mikaela, but it has been working for the most part.”

The discussion with Jones, however, did prompt Nunez to flip her choice of schools. “Right after talking to him, I thought this was the school I wanted to go to, so I did,” Nunez said. “My teammate actually didn’t end up coming here.”

Nunez, who played this year after undergoing surgery for a torn ACL and meniscus in her right knee in 2020, said she would rather be at receiver, but wants to do what is best for the Warriors. “He had looked at someone else for (quarterback), but that didn’t work out so he told me I’d be the starter,” she said. “I’m not really a fan of the position, but if it is what is best for the team, I don’t mind being there.”

Nunez said the Warriors’ season hasn’t gone poorly, but it could be better. “Individually, my season didn’t go quite as expected because I played a position I had never played before so that was an adjustment for me,” she said. “As a team, I felt like we could’ve done better. We just haven’t played to our potential yet.” Jones agrees. “As a coach, you look at it and you know they have more in them,” he said. “You have higher expectations for them. I’m not displeased, but I also know there is more that we’re able to do.” The roster has no seniors and just one junior -- Omaha native Casey Thompson. The rest are sophomores and freshmen. “We kind of came in a little bit late with recruiting,” said Jones, who

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The 14-player roster includes athletes from Florida, Alaska and Las Vegas. Fremonters Jasmine Lopez Lango and Morgan Kalisek are two of four Nebraskans on the team. “Here in the Midwest, recruiting is a little bit different because we don’t have sanctioned high school flag football,” Jones said. “What you are really looking for are athletes that can transition. Coming from a women’s league, we had a lot of girls who played basketball and track at the college level so those girls transition very well into the game of football because they have great footwork already. Most of them have good speed so we just work on hand-eye coordination things. They (adapt) well because they are already great athletes.”

Jones could’ve been less choosy and built a bigger roster, but he is more concerned about building a quality program with high-caliber individuals. “My first pitch to any recruit is that if you don’t have a 3.0 GPA in high school, I don’t even talk to you,” he said. “That isn’t being mean, but if you can’t go to class every day and have good grades then at some point you're going to be ineligible and then you probably won’t come back to school anyway. That kind of defeats the purpose of having that recruit come in. You have to be smart about it. We want people who are committed to the school and not just football.” Jones originally didn’t want a roster to exceed 24 players, but that has changed. Junior colleges are now offering flag football, creating more scheduling opportunities. “It creates

a two-way street for us,” he said. “We can have a varsity and a junior varsity squad. The varsity can play a NAIA schedule while the JV plays a junior college schedule. That way we’ve got our varsity and also a developmental squad.” The Warriors concluded their season in early May in the NAIA Invitational in Atlanta. Nunez is looking forward to her sophomore season -- whether that is at receiver or quarterback. “Next year will be better,” she said, noting her knee and mobility should be better. “This year we were a firstyear program and we were getting a sense of everything, trying to earn our place. The second year should go smoother.”

Women’s Flag Football 29

CCT Research MIDLAND GRADS EXCITED FOR CONTINUED GROWTH Walking the campus of Midland University on a recent trip to their alma mater, CJ Anderson and Alex Knobbe began reminiscing. As they visited the people and places familiar to them, their minds raced back to their time as Midland students a decade ago. “When we were back on campus, we ended up in the library and went to a room where I did my work study,” Anderson said. “As we sat there, we started thinking about our 19-year-old selves and all the daydreaming we used to do about where we’d be in 10 years. It’s an incredible moment to reflect back on and realize how excited we are about where we are now.” Anderson and Knobbe, both 2012 Midland graduates, are two of the three founding members of Cognitive Clinical Trials, (CCT Research). CCT Research is a network consisting of 17 clinical research sites in Arizona, Nebraska, Utah, Nevada and Alabama conducting studies in the areas of Alzheimer’s Disease, internal medicine, dermatology, and most recently, COVID-19.

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Even while they were pursuing their own individual careers after graduation, both Anderson and Knobbe had visions that someday, they would be running their own businesses. It’s what led Anderson to start his own company, Finding Pharma, a staffing agency that helped pharmaceutical and clinical research companies find executives. “I was working at Gallup, but I always had this passion to start my own business,” Anderson said. One of his first moves was bringing Knobbe on board.” “I was working as an auditor for Deloitte when CJ, with his entrepreneurial spirit, approached me about helping Finding Pharma grow,” Knobbe said. In 2017, Anderson and Knobbe joined forces with Nick Bruggeman to launch CCT Research. Anderson believes the experience gained from Finding Pharma helped them discover what would, and wouldn’t, work in the medical research market. “It allowed us to identify problems and holes in the industry,” Anderson said. “We noticed there were bottlenecks in the industry and one of those involved Alzheimer’s research. So when we started CCT, we had a unique model to find patients by going into senior living communities where these patients could participate in studies and not have to leave home.

remember names of her kids and acted like a different person. It’s because of moments like that, we remember why we do this, and why we started this company. It’s allowed us to do something that could help millions of people.”

Alex Knobbe

CJ Anderson

“At CCT, we focus on how to bring drugs and vaccines to the market faster through more effective patient outreach. Several months ago, we received the opportunity to enroll nearly 1,500 patients in eight weeks for a study in Arizona (the second highest of any site in the world). This is what we asked for, we just didn’t expect to receive the opportunity so quickly. Building what we have over the last three years turned out to be very useful for COVID-19 research.” As they continue to see CCT thrive and grow, Anderson recalls what makes their work so rewarding. “One of the reasons this is so fulfilling for me is that 15 years ago, my father was diagnosed with Stage 4 bone cancer,” he says. “His own physician recommended a trial and it extended his life three years. Now, it’s come full circle where we are able to help patients and families see the opportunities they have through research. We received a letter from a woman whose mother suffered severe dementia. She went through one of our trials and started to

That helping spirit was forged on the Midland campus more than a decade ago. Knobbe said the principles and values learned during their time at Midland remain with the duo today. “A lot of what we do is attributed to the values, such as determination and teamwork, we developed at Midland,” he said. CCT saw its share of growth in 2020 with more than 75 full time employees and another 100 physicians that are contracted through the company. As exciting as that growth has been, Anderson said this is no time for the company to pump the brakes. “The stakes are higher and the expectations are higher than when we first started,” he said. “We’ve come so far, yet I feel like we’re still at the starting line because the expectations have been stretched to another level. “I think the amount of time it takes for a drug to hit the market can be cut down significantly if we have a network of sites. If we can get that 17 locations to 100 to 200 locations, we will be able to take on entire trials. We can build a onestop shop and work to bring medications to the market quicker. That’s the long term goal.” “We are nowhere near the finish line yet,” Knobbe added. “I keep waiting for that moment when we can kick our feet back and relax, but I don’t think it’s coming.” CCT Research 31

Life of Service NANCY ERICKSON MAKES THINGS BETTER FOR THOSE AROUND HER A life of service best defines the life of the Rev. Nancy Erickson. The 1969 Midland Lutheran College graduate has spent most of her professional career doing her part to make the world a better place for those who might need a helping hand. “I’ve always been a fan of the underdog,” said Erickson, who retired in 2017 from her post as associate pastor at First-Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln. Raised in rural Saunders County between Ceresco and Wahoo, Erickson, because of a health issue, was schooled at home until the middle of her high school years. Using intercoms at home and at school to communicate with teachers, it was remote learning circa 1960s. Following graduation from high school, her next stop was Midland. “I didn’t want to be far from home and was very impressed on my tour,” Erickson said. “I have very fond memories of Midland, my instructors, and professors.” Like so many to pass through the halls of Midland, Erickson was influenced in her collegiate years by her advisor, Dr. Caryl Steyer. “I had a really good advisor,” Erickson said. “He worked with me a lot and he really encouraged me to think bigger. I remember one time he told me that when I’m feeling badly, do something for somebody else. That makes sense.”

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“People say it was so wonderful that you helped these poor people, but it was very mutual. I learned so much from them.” -NANCY ERICKSON

Finishing earning her Master of Divinity degree in 1989 in New Haven, Connecticut, Erickson was ordained at FirstPlymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln, where she served as associate pastor from 2004 until her retirement in 2017. Prior to her parish duties, Erickson made time to minister to segments of society others often look past. Shortly after ordination she was director of Lincoln's Urban Ministries and served as the first chaplain of the Capitol City’s adult detention facility. Erickson later became director of a homeless shelter in Lincoln and was coordinator of an outpatient treatment program at a drug and alcohol center for women.

Graduating from Midland in 1969 with a double major in psychology and sociology, Erickson went on to earn a master’s degree in educational psychology from the University of Nebraska before embarking on a decades long career of being there for others.

Women troubled with substance abuse or left homeless especially tugged at Erickson’s heart. “I learned so much at the homeless shelter,” Erickson said. “People say it was so wonderful that you helped those poor people, but it was very mutual. I learned so much from them.”

Shortly after graduating from Midland, Erickson was honored with the Gallantry Award for her service to Easter Seals of Nebraska and her work with individuals with disabilities and special needs. It was also in 1972 when Erickson was elected president of the startup League of Human Dignity, a local advocacy group established to promote independent living for people with disabilities.

By the early 2000s, Erickson had settled into her role as associate pastor at First-Plymouth, where her primary responsibilities included adult education, pastoral counseling, LGBTQ Ministry and Women’s Ministry (an organization she founded).

Two years later, Erickson was tabbed by Gov. Jim Exon to serve on the Governor’s Committee for the Employment of the Handicapped – that in addition to her gubernatorial appointment to the newly established Public Buildings Safety Advisory Committee. Four years later, Exon appointed her to the state’s Public Buildings Safety Advisory Board. Erickson’s service to the state continued under Gov. Bob Kerrey when in 1986 she was appointed to the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission. In the waning months of the 1980s, Erickson’s career took a turn when she enrolled as a seminarian at Yale Divinity School. That she ended up an ordained minister can be traced in part to her work for the Catholic church. “I was working for a selection research company and my job was working with Catholic dioceses all over the country who were looking for men to become priests,” Erickson said. “My job was to filter these men and analyze their responses. Doing this day in and day out – I thought I could do that.”

Over the course of her years of service, Erickson has been honored time and time again for her work with advocacy groups. Included in her accolades are the Valiant Nebraska Award from the Easter Seal Society, the Midtown Sertoma Club’s Service to Mankind Award, the End Hunger Award sponsored by the Nebraska Pantry Network of Interchurch Ministries of Nebraska. Another honor bestowed to her was from her alma mater, the Alumni Achievement Award presented by Midland in 1984. Erickson said she recently has reconnected with her sisters of Phi Omega sorority. “One of my sorority sisters started getting us together quarterly, and now I’m back in touch with so many people, back with my Midland friends,” Erickson said. “We had a 50th reunion dinner at the country club. It was so good to see those folks again. That helped me get reconnected.”

Nancy Erickson 33

Carter WELCH

Class & Major: Sophomore, Psychology and Sociology Hometown: Bloomer, Wisconsin Campus Activities: Resident Advisor, Admissions Ambassador, Peer Career Coach, Student Senate, Powerlifting, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Member, Pi Gamma Mu Honor Society Member, Psi Chi Honor Society Member

What memories of Midland will you always carry with you? I will remember my classmates/teammates and all of the exciting, difﬁcult, funny, and loving moments I have shared with them. I will remember all of the faculty and staff who have supported me throughout my journey and continually advocate for us as young professionals. I feel that I will always have a piece of Midland in my heart and forever be a Warrior!

How has the Midland experience changed you?

What are your plans after graduation?

Midland has been a huge blessing to me and I am always looking for ways to give back and help others on campus. I love being a resource and love how many resources we have. Midland has allowed me to be who I want to be and even discover pieces of myself that I didn't know existed.

I want to pursue a PhD in Sports Psychology or Industrial and Organizational Psychology.

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Why did you choose to attend Midland?

I loved the small campus feel and level of comfort and support I received from my ﬁrst day here. With the never-ending support and ample opportunities to be involved, I felt right being here, and I am constantly reinforced by it every single day.

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