The Sound of Tradition
Celebrating 100 Years of the Morningside Choir
WHY I LOVE MORNINGSIDE
While at Morningside, I had the opportunity to be a part of the baseball team and golf team, and many organizations around campus. One of my favorites was being a student ambassador and giving prospective students and families an authentic look inside Morningside. I loved having the ability to show a glimpse of the Magic of Morningside. From the moment you step on campus, you immediately get that feeling of home away from home. The feeling that every professor, coach, and employee really cares about you and your well-being inside and outside of the classroom.
This culture of care was radiated at every level, starting at the top. While at Morningside, I had the opportunity to be involved in the President’s Book Club, which led to the opportunity to get together with President Reynders every three weeks while in college. The President of our college took time out of his busy schedule to meet with a freshman!
Since graduating, I’ve continued to feel the impact of Morningside in my life. I’ve stayed connected with mentors, received reference letters, and came back to campus to speak to students who are walking the same path I once did. My Morningside experience also continues to shape my career. Today, I serve as the Executive Director of a local non-profit, a role I truly don’t believe would have been possible without the connections and experiences I gained during my time there.
Giving back to support students, whether in or out of the classroom, so they can have the same transformative experience I did, is something I’m passionate about. The best part is you don’t have to “sell” Morningside to anyone. Once you step on campus and feel that Morningside Magic, it truly speaks for itself.
Braxton Hinders, '22
Braxton and Lauren (Rohwer) Hinders '22
EXECUTIVE
Tasha Goodvin '14
MANAGING
Alisanne Struck
CONTRIBUTING
Zach James
Gabriel Ruiz '26
CONTRIBUTING
Taylor Cole '26
Casey Kruger '26 PHOTOGRAPHY
Nick Buth '11
Stacie Hays
Morningside Avenues
Morningside University receives $2.5M Gift from the Curt '76 and Linda White Family Trust
Morningside University proudly announces a generous $2.5 million gift from the Curt and Linda White Family Trust. Curt White '76, is the current board chair of the board of directors, and chair of the external relations committee.
Curt White, a retired executive from Mattel, Inc. and Sioux City native, has long supported Morningside University. While at Morningside, White played on the baseball team for four years and was a co-captain for two. White stayed busy as a Delta Sigma Phi fraternity member, as well. Since then, he worked at Pillsbury Corporation in Minneapolis and worked at Mattel in Los Angeles as a supply chain executive, traveling on over 100 international business trips, before retiring to Westfield, Indiana, with his wife Linda and daughter Maggie. White has also remained extensively engaged with Morningside over the years, returning to campus to give guest lectures to students in the School of Business.
“Morningside has always valued innovation as key to lifelong learning,” said White. “My gift reflects my belief in the power of a college education to inspire and prepare students to become thoughtful and active members of society.”
This substantial donation will bolster a variety of projects, including efforts that enhance experiential learning opportunities, expand innovative academic programs, and improve on-campus resources.
Morningside has always valued innovation as key to lifelong learning. My gift reflects my belief in the power of a college education to inspire and prepare students to become thoughtful and active members of society.
- Curt White '76
St. Luke’s College Plans to Join Morningside University
St. Luke’s College plans to join Morningside University to enhance healthcare education and expand opportunities for students. This partnership builds on a shared legacy of academic excellence, offering enriched resources and programs while supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. Students can expect access to expanded learning opportunities, cutting-edge resources, and a collaborative environment designed to prepare them for success in the evolving healthcare landscape. Together, we’re shaping the future of healthcare in Siouxland and beyond.
School of Aviation Achieves Full FAA Part 141 Certification
Morningside University is proud to announce a major milestone in its continued ascent as an Aviation Department. As of May 20th, the university has officially received full certification as a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 141 Pilot School, marking the successful conclusion of a two-year effort to transition from provisional to full FAA Part 141 status.
FAA Part 141 certification establishes a rigorous and structured training environment that allows students to qualify for various pilot ratings with fewer required flight hours than other pilot training options. This efficiency leads to cost savings and faster progress toward pilot careers, especially important in today’s high-demand aviation job market.
With this certification fully secured, the department is preparing its application for the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (R-ATP) Program, a distinction available to FAA Part 141 programs offered through four-year universities. Once approved, Morningside graduates will be eligible to apply for their airline transport certificates with 1,000 flight hours, instead of the traditional 1,500.
Moreover, Part 141 programs require that flight instructors and examiners meet standardized FAA oversight and accountability measures. This ensures consistent, high-quality instruction and greater reliability in student evaluation and training outcomes, creating a safer, more effective pathway to the flight deck.
Our graduates will now enter the workforce with credentials from a program backed by the FAA’s most rigorous standards. This elevates our program and provides our students a critical advantage in a competitive and growing aviation industry.
- Dr. Thomas H. Paulsen Dean of the School of Agriculture and Aviation
“Our graduates will now enter the workforce with credentials from a program backed by the FAA’s most rigorous standards,” said Dr. Thomas H. Paulsen, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Aviation. “This elevates our program and provides our students a critical advantage in a competitive and growing aviation industry.”
Admitted Student Day
On March 21st, Morningside University hosted its first Admitted Students Day, welcoming future Mustangs to experience campus life firsthand. The event provided admitted students with an opportunity to explore the university, connect with peers, and envision their future at Morningside. The day was designed to immerse students in the university's welcoming atmosphere and showcase the community they could soon call home.
The event offered engaging activities, including networking with fellow admitted students, a custom t-shirt station, and a student panel sharing insights on campus life. It left attendees excited and inspired for their journey at Morningside University.
Morningside
wins Siouxland Choice Award
For the second consecutive year and the third time overall, Morningside University has earned the title of Best in Higher Education. By consistently setting high standards and fostering an environment of growth and learning, Morningside continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in the higher education landscape. This recognition not only celebrates the university's accomplishments but also underscores its dedication to shaping the future of education.
Morningside awarded over $947,500 in grants
Morningside University is proud to announce the receipt of several prestigious grants totaling over $947,500. These funds will support a variety of initiatives aimed at advancing student education, enhancing campus resources, and fostering community engagement.
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION (NSF) GRANT: $750,000
Morningside University has received a Level 2 NSF IUSE grant to expand its project-based learning program for Biology and Chemistry freshmen. Building on a successful Level 1 grant ($300,000, 2021–2023), the initiative accelerates research skill development and fosters positive science attitudes. The expanded program will launch in Fall 2026.
ROY J. CARVER CHARITABLE TRUST GRANT: $170,000
This grant will fund advanced equipment for health science education, including an Anatomage Human Anatomy Table and a GE LOGIQ Ultrasound System. These tools will provide cutting-edge training for students in Nursing, Pre-Health, and Exercise Science programs.
MARGARET ANN MARTIN EVERIST FOUNDATION GRANT: $25,000
The grant supports community-based performing arts events, such as “Christmas at Morningside” and High School Honor events, enriching the local cultural scene and fostering artistic collaboration.
UNITED AIRLINES TRUST FUND GRANT: $2,500
Funds will purchase equipment for the Stop the Bleed program, which trains the campus community to provide life-saving aid in emergencies, reinforcing Morningside’s commitment to safety.
Morningside University Welcomes a Record Incoming Class
Morningside University proudly celebrates surpassing its full-time undergraduate enrollment goals, welcoming over 400 students. This achievement marks a record-breaking milestone for the institution, highlighting its continued growth and success.
“We’re welcoming the largest first-year class in Morningside’s modern history, and that speaks volumes about the students and families who see themselves as part of our community,” said Steph Peters, Vice President for Enrollment Management. “With initiatives like Siouxland Proud, Mside Bound, we’re showing our commitment to the region by offering tuition aid packages to deserving students across Siouxland. It’s one of the ways we’re making a Morningside education possible for more local students.”
Through the Siouxland Proud, Mside Bound initiative, Morningside is strengthening its ties to the tri-state region by offering full-tuition aid packages to 150 high school seniors from Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. This program ensures that a Morningside education remains accessible to local students who meet academic and financial criteria, further solidifying the university’s role as a cornerstone of opportunity and growth in the Siouxland community.
We’re welcoming the largest first-year class in Morningside’s modern history, and that speaks volumes about the students and families who see themselves as part of our community.
- Steph Peters Vice President for Enrollment Management
Morningside welcomes students from 18 states and 21 countries. Reflecting Morningside's strong connection to its home state, 43 percent of the incoming class are proud Iowans. This mix of local and international students underscores Morningside's commitment to fostering a global community while staying deeply rooted in its regional heritage.
Morningside University is committed to maintaining this growth, with Interim President Chad Benson expressing his enthusiasm: "It's an exciting time to be at Morningside University. Our student body, growing enrollment, and strong partnerships are key to our continued success. We look forward to building on this foundation in the years ahead.”
18 STATES
21 COUNTRIES
43% FROM IOWA
MUSTANG Minute PLAYERS TO COACHES
Mustangs Alumni Lead Morningside Basketball’s Next Chapter
By Zachary James
If the faces on the Morningside University men’s basketball bench look familiar, there’s a good reason. Head coach Trent Miller ‘14 and assistant coaches Ben Hoskins ‘20 and Tyler Vavrina ‘22 once suited up for the Mustangs themselves. Now, they’re leading the program they once played for, carrying the pride of Morningside.
“It’s a ball,” Miller said. “We have the best job in the world. We all had an opportunity to have worn the jersey at one point, to now get the chance to lead and be a part of the program in a different role was so exciting.”
Miller began his coaching career as an assistant coach after playing, and he was subsequently elevated to associate head coach in January 2020. He then took over head coaching duties starting in the 2021-22 season. “I only know what we do here, because I have only coached in the Morningside system," Miller said. “My assistants have had experience in other programs, and I am grateful for their perspectives.”
No matter the perspective, the success has always been there. In the last 10 seasons, the Mustangs have won six regularseason GPAC titles, two GPAC tournament championships, been to nationals eight times, and have played in the national quarterfinals three times. That’s not what makes Miller most proud, however. "I'm most proud of the type of men that have come through this place,” Miller said. “Yes, they can play some basketball, but more importantly, they are men of high character. Seeing them lead and excel in their personal lives after their basketball careers is very rewarding."
That success has been built on culture — the work ethic, the expectations, and the relationships that haven’t changed through the years. Whether it’s drills Miller learned from
former coach Jim Sykes, preseason races around Lewis Pool, or meaningful conversations in individual meetings, the roots of the program remain the same.
Every path began somewhere, and for the two assistants, both roads began in Nebraska. Hoskins had doubts about becoming a coach. After playing his final game in 2020, he thought he was done with basketball, but there was an opportunity Hoskins couldn’t turn down. Miller helped Hoskins get into the Gretna High School boys basketball program. Just three days with the Dragons, Hoskins knew coaching was his calling.
“Coaching opened my eyes,” Hoskins said. “I realized the impact you can have on a player’s life, and I was drawn to the passion and energy that comes with building real relationships while teaching the game.” Hoskins moved back to the area once he and his wife acquired teaching roles in the Sioux City metro area. The timing also became perfect when there was an opening on the Mustangs men’s basketball coaching staff, and Miller didn’t hesitate to reach out.
Meanwhile, Vavrina knew he wanted to trade his uniform in for a whistle. Growing up on a family farm in Abie, Nebraska, he spent summers helping with youth camps, which fueled his desire to coach. “I felt that passion right away,” Vavrina said. “Then taking that step to college and playing and really learning the game, the X's and O's and the culture building.”
Vavrina’s next step came thanks to a phone call from Miller. Miller offered Vavrina a graduate assistant position. While Vavrina continues to work in agriculture, he’s been a Mustangs assistant ever since. His early days coaching the junior varsity team were challenging, with the team losing its first three games. But Miller encouraged him to stay patient and keep learning.
“It led me to this day to be able to come back and build with the kids here,” Vavrina said. “It took two, three months of really coaching and going through the program with these guys for them to finally just click and see this is how we run our system and this is what we do.”
The alumni connection doesn’t just stop with Miller and the two assistants. Aiden Westra and Alec Dreckman will serve as graduate assistants this upcoming season. As former players for Morningside, the coaching staff understands the demands placed on their athletes. They also recognize the fine line between being coaches and being friends, especially given the
close age gap between the two assistants and the players. “The best coaches I played under were always the ones that didn't shy away from conflict or hard conversations,” Miller said.
The players don’t mind the tough conversations, because they know their coaches were in the same shoes not that long ago.
“A lot of the reason we’re able to get so many good recruits is because guys like having coaches who have walked in the same shoes as they will,” junior forward Caleb Dreckman said. “The way the coaches go about their business, they demand a level of respect. They pass on the culture to do what Morningside does, and that’s win basketball games.”
That mix of passion and care is what makes this chapter at Morningside meaningful. Miller, Hoskins, and Vavrina aren’t just former Mustangs back on the bench — they’re mentors carrying forward the same pride of the maroon and white that once fueled their own playing days.
“We have the best job in the world. We all had an opportunity to have worn the jersey at one point, to now get the chance to lead and be a part of the program in a different role was so exciting.”
- Trent
Miller '14 Head Men's Basketball Coach
From Grounded Dreams to Sky-High Careers
The hum of helicopter blades and the adrenaline-fueled rush of medical emergencies are all part of the job for Bryce Winters '21, Katherine (Grote) Stauffer '18, and Kaylee (Van Voorst) Hamilton '20. As flight nurses, they embody grit, compassion, and adaptability. Their paths to these high-stakes roles may be unique, but they share a common origin at Morningside University, where their dreams were cultivated, their skills sharpened, and their passion for making a difference took flight.
BRYCE WINTERS
Bryce Winters has always wanted to help people. Growing up in Jesup, Iowa, he had no clear idea what shape that dream would take. It wasn’t until his senior year of high school that the future started to come into focus.
“I’ve always wanted to make a difference, you know, to save lives in some way,” Bryce shared. He explored the idea of becoming a doctor but shifted his focus to nursing, thanks to a bit of motherly wisdom. “One day, my mom just said, ‘Hey, nursing could be good for you. You’ve got a big heart, and there are a lot of opportunities.’ She was right. The more I looked into nursing, the more intrigued I was.”
That spark of curiosity led Bryce to Morningside, but nursing wasn’t his only pursuit. Bryce also joined Morningside’s football team, where he built lasting friendships.
“Football was awesome,” he shared. “I met my best friends through it. It was such a big part of my life during college.” But balancing football with the demanding nature of a nursing program proved a tall
By Alisanne Struck
order. By senior year, clinicals and coursework had taken priority, and Bryce chose to focus fully on nursing.
Bryce thrived in hands-on environments, and Morningside’s nursing program gave him plenty of opportunities to apply what he was learning. From challenging simulations to supportive professors like Shar Georgesen and Lauri Sells, Bryce found a program that helped him lay the groundwork for his future.
“The Morningside nursing program builds as solid a foundation as you could hope for,” Bryce said. “They get the
They get the fundamentals instilled in you, and that solid base makes it easier to build on as you progress in your career.
-Bryce Winters
Bryce Winters '21
KATHERINE (GROTE) STAUFFER
fundamentals instilled in you, and that solid base makes it easier to build on as you progress in your career.”
That strong foundation carried him through the early days of his career. While still in nursing school, Bryce worked as a CNA at the local Mercy emergency room. There, he caught a glimpse of the high pressure, critical care environment he had been drawn to.
"Always be open to trying new things.”
Today, Bryce doesn’t just work at a bedside. He works thousands of feet above it, providing critical care to patients in need of rapid air transport. Being a flight nurse requires adaptability and an expansive skillset. Bryce added certifications like Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), neonatal resuscitation, and trauma nursing to his resume, all while preparing for one of the industry’s toughest credentials, the Certified Flight Registered Nurse (CFRN) certification.
Katherine Stauffer’s path to becoming a flight nurse wasn’t marked by a single, shining moment of clarity. Instead, it was built on countless steps forward, starting with her decision to pursue nursing at Morningside College back in 2014. Driven by a desire to help others and a curiosity for medicine, Katherine enrolled into Morningside’s nursing program. Little did she know that her choice would propel her into a career she now describes as “the best job ever.”
-Bryce Winters
For Katherine, her connection to Morningside began through family. Both her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, former members of the college’s track team, introduced her to the campus. After visiting and feeling instantly at home, she applied, was accepted, and would join the choir once she arrived at Morningside. Sharing the Morningside experience with her husband, who would later work with NASA, added another layer of specialness to their time at Morningside.
Katherine (Grote) Stauffer '18
While nursing school was undoubtedly demanding, Morningside became a place of growth for Katherine. She dove headfirst into campus life, serving as a Resident Assistant (RA) for one year and a Head Resident for two. Through Residence Life, she found a close-knit support system that made the challenges of her demanding academic program a little easier. Choir also became a haven, offering her a creative, stress-free outlet amid the rigors of nursing coursework. Memories of casual hangouts in the dorm's communal spaces, playing games, and participating in beloved traditions like “Christmas at Morningside” remain some of her fondest moments.
After graduating, Katherine entered her career in an intensive care unit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was an intense introduction to the realities of nursing, and though flight nursing was always in the back of her mind, the demands of work and starting a family caused her to put that dream on hold. However, a job opening for a flight nurse unexpectedly appeared, and with encouragement from colleagues at the ICU, she decided to apply. To her surprise, she landed the role and began a new chapter in September 2024.
Flight nursing, as Katherine explained, is a
completely different world. Working without a doctor on board, she and her paramedic partner make split-second decisions while caring for patients in high-stakes situations. “We handle everything,” she says. “From newborns to end-of-life moments, you never know what’s going to come through the door. It’s such a wide range of knowledge to master, and the decision-making is intense.”
Despite the challenges, the rewards are abundant. “It’s all the things I love about nursing combined with the thrill of aviation. It’s truly the coolest job.” Katherine attributes much of her success to the strong foundation she built at Morningside. “The simulations we did back then prepared me for the constant training I do now, including simulating scenarios in helicopters,” she explains. “Morningside made me understand that nursing is a lifelong learning process, and that mindset has been key.”
KAYLEE HAMILTON
For Kaylee Hamilton, the decision to attend Morningside University marked a pivotal step toward a career that would test her resilience, compassion, and courage. Growing up in Hull, Iowa, her sights were set on branching beyond the familiar paths many of her peers were following. Kaylee was drawn to the “homey” and welcoming environment of Morningside.
Katherine (Grote) Stauffer '18 on the far right
Kaylee initially came to Morningside to play volleyball and run track, yet life quickly nudged her in new directions. She ultimately focused on track. But beyond athletics, Kaylee immersed herself in Morningside’s tight-knit community. She joined the jazz band, participated in campus ministries, and even stepped into leadership roles as an RA in Dimmitt Hall. Known for tucking in her residents at night, she turned this responsibility into a tradition filled with warmth and connection.
Kaylee also took on the challenging and rewarding position of student athletic trainer for the football team, a role she credits with sparking her early fascination with medicine and emergency care. “Some of my favorite memories were traveling with the team to the national championships,” she said. “Seeing how much we could do to help players perform at their best really stuck with me.”
Despite her deepening interest in medicine, Kaylee’s academic path wasn’t straightforward. She began as a biochemistry major with aspirations of becoming a pharmacist. But midway through her junior year, she felt a tug toward something more hands-on. Nursing called to her. “I’d spent time helping care for my grandmother, and the personal touch of nursing felt right,” she explains. With the support of Morningside advisor Brian McFarland and her nursing mentor Amanda Haverhals, she made the big leap.
"Morningside made me understand that nursing is a lifelong learning process, and that mindset has been key.”
Kaylee’s shift to nursing was demanding, but her determination carried her through. Over her six years at Morningside, she managed to graduate with not only a Bachelor’s in Nursing but also a Bachelor’s in Biology and minors in Chemistry, Philosophy, and Psychology. Alongside her grueling nursing program, Kaylee also took part in a 2018 medical mission trip to Brazil. Traveling by boat down the Amazon River, she provided critical healthcare services to underserved villages. “That trip solidified everything for me,” she says. “The chance to help people who had so little…it made me see how impactful nursing could be.”
Today, Kaylee’s days are far from ordinary. She works with LifeFlight, a Des Moines-based medical helicopter service, where she serves as a flight nurse stationed in Fort Dodge. Her shifts are anything but predictable. “Some days, the weather keeps us grounded, and we focus on training,” Kaylee says. “Other times, it’s the middle of the night, and we’re flying across state lines, working to save someone.”
Kaylee credits her time at Morningside for instilling the curiosity and resilience required for her career. “Our professors didn’t just teach us academics,” she says. “They pushed us to be proactive
-Katherine
Stauffer
and seek out opportunities to learn. That mindset is something I’ve carried with me every day.”
Bryce, Katherine, and Kaylee have advice for aspiring nurses hoping to follow their path. Bryce encourages students to stay curious. “Always be open to trying new things,” he said. Katherine emphasized preparation, urging students to gain critical care experience and shadow professionals whenever possible. Kaylee echoed the importance of stepping outside comfort zones. “It’s in the uncomfortable moments that you grow the most,” she said.
Their paths from Morningside to careers in flight nursing have been defined by challenges, achievements, and dedication. For these professionals, nursing extends beyond saving lives — it’s about fostering meaningful connections and delivering compassionate care, even at 10,000 feet above ground. It was at Morningside where their aspirations to make a difference first took shape.
Kaylee (Van Voorst) Hamilton '20
A Centennial Celebration
Celebrating 100 Years of Music, Memories, and Morningside’s Choral
Tradition
By Zach James
Tim Watson rarely uses the word “magic” when talking about music. But as the former director of choral activities stepped onto the stage of Eppley Auditorium during April’s Centennial Celebration concert, the feeling was undeniable. He was home.
Watson was one of several former directors and alumni who returned to Sioux City to participate in the weekend-long event, tying in the past while looking ahead to the future. “It was just a joy for me,” said Watson, who headed the choir department from 2003-2017. “Sharing that experience again with students I care about was incredibly meaningful, and
I slipped right back into it. It felt like no time had passed, really. I would conduct all of those people again and sing with them again in a heartbeat. If we could meet every week, I'd do it.”
Watson was conducting a choir that night for the first time in over three years, as he currently serves as the Executive Director at Touchmark, a senior living community in Portland, Oregon. “I was thrilled to be back,” Watson said. “It was more emotional than I expected it to be. I came right into Eppley and saw students I hadn't seen for years. They meant so much to me, and that college meant so much to me.”
At first, Watson was nervous to make the trip. As the executive director of Touchmark, a senior living community in Portland, Oregon, his job keeps him busy. He also has three children, and his son Connor Watson ’16 joined him on the trip, singing with the bass section.
Dr. Ryan Person, Morningside’s current director of vocal activities, kept asking Watson to attend and conduct, and after a few conversations, Watson agreed. “It was a very meaningful night for me,” Watson said.
When Scott Kruse ‘14 saw Watson the first time that weekend, tears started welling up in his eyes. The flashbacks of the memories he made as a student and performer also collected as he embraced his former director.
There’s
“(Mr. Watson) was the biggest reason I stuck around Morningside for five years,” Kruse said. “I never wanted to stop performing for him. He still has the same energy, the same Watson-isms, and the same craziness.”
Watson joined Dr. Bruce Wood ‘77 and Person throughout the night, conducting classic scores such as “Men of the ‘M’” and the “Marching Song." There was one, however, that had a significant impact on Wood and the performers.
absolutely nothing like performing in Eppley. The sound you help create in that room, the history, it helps propel you through your performances.
Scott Kruse '14
Morningside Choir Alumni
Wood had the honor of conducting “The Death of an Infant,” an elegy written by his father, James Wood, honoring the miscarriage of a boy while James was teaching at Morningside. Bruce didn’t know his father wrote that song until this spring. When Person sent the scores, Bruce saw
Dr. Ryan Person, Director of Choral Activities and Associate Professor of Music, conducting a choir of current students and alumni.
the song and was stunned. The song was about a brother he had never met.
“I knew that my mother had had a miscarriage, but that was all I knew, and I didn't ask any questions about it,” Bruce said. “Then, to find out that he wrote a piece about this child that they never knew was pretty powerful.”
During rehearsal, he returned to his seat after conducting and noticed a fellow bass singer overcome with emotion. The fellow Morningsider was filled with so much emotion that Bruce had to hold him up in his arms after being deeply moved. “He was overcome with emoition, because he had sung that around 50 years earlier and hadn't sung it since,” Bruce recalled. The piece meant so much to him.”
Bruce grew up near campus and graduated from East High School. With both of his parents working at Morningside, he always considered the college a second home — and deep down, he knew he belonged here. Still, it wasn’t until his freshman year that he truly discovered his calling in music.
He listened to music of all kinds, but he gravitated toward the genres of classical and rock & roll. He found himself with his turntable, listening to his favorite songs. It was then that he realized that music was always in his blood. Three overseas choir trips in '74, ‘75, and ‘77 also sealed his calling.
Bruce – now a retiree – last directed in Anchorage, Alaska, where he was the Director of Fine Arts for the city’s school district. He veered off the music path as an elementary principal, but was called back into music by becoming the director of fine arts for the schools in Owatonna, Minn.
I’ve felt lucky to have been a part of this. I never realized before that the kind of experience that I've had in the Morningside Choir is not unique to the past few years that I've been in the choir, or even the past ten years. It's been a very longstanding tradition.
-
Kate Flugstad '25 Music Education student
Dr. Ryan Person leads a choir of current students and alumni at the centennial celebration
While Watson and Wood returned as guest conductors, Person, the current director of vocal activities at Morningside, coordinated the weekend-long event. From putting together the Friday gathering downtown, to selecting the music for the concert, to a full booklet of the program’s history, Person didn’t want a detail to go to waste.
“It’s everything I had hoped for and more,” Person said. “I will say it was a very heavy load to lift and probably the biggest event that I've ever put together here at Morningside, but I look forward to doing it again. This experience, to me as the director, has been an honor because we just have these vast generations of people that have been a part of the same community.”
Another detail Person wanted to make sure he got right was the involvement of current students. While it was important to honor those in the past, he wanted the present to have a part in the event. “We have some wonderful current students who are very invested in the program,” Person said. “I was very pleased with how enthusiastic they were and how they offered their hearts to the alums as they entered the doors and during rehearsals and at the luncheon event.”
Morningside junior Kate Flugstad was one of those students who not only volunteered throughout the weekend but also performed at the concert. Talking with alumni, she quickly realized her experiences weren’t all that different from theirs. “It’s been special for a long time for a lot of people,” she said. “I’ve felt lucky to have been a part of this. I never realized before that the kind of experience that I've had in the Morningside Choir is not unique to the past few years that I've been in the choir, or even the past ten years. It's been a very longstanding tradition.”
That night, Flugstad sang a solo alongside Seth Walker, while Nora Dahle added percussion on the choir’s performance of “Reminiscing” by Graeham Goble — a song about memories made and those yet to be shared. Flugstad already knew the piece before the concert and made it a priority to audition for the solo: “I’ve loved that song, because it’s so special. Getting to have that solo and to share the music that we were making was really beautiful.”
Watson and Wood noticed how engaged today’s students were. They greeted alumni as they arrived and asked questions about what campus life was like back then. “They were outstanding,” Watson said. “I was so thrilled to hear the
Tim Watson conducting the choir at the centennial celebration
Kate Flugstad '25
choir and so proud to hear all of the work that they're doing and the kind of people they are. The legacy continues.”
Alumni, faculty, and students all walked out of Eppley Auditorium feeling nostalgic. For alumni singers, the opportunity to return and perform again felt “like coming home.”
Once Kruse stepped onto the stage for warm-ups and the concert, he remembered how special it was to be a member of the Morningside Choir. “There’s absolutely nothing like performing in Eppley,” Kruse said. “The sound you help create in that room, the history, it helps propel you through your performances. When you help fill that room, it’s an incredible feeling.”
The Centennial Celebration offered a chance to look back, but it also sparked excitement for what’s still to come. As alumni and students shared the stage, they carried forward a legacy that’s poised to grow even stronger in the choir’s next century.
This experience, to me as the director, has been an honor because we just have these vast generations of people that have been a part of the same community
- Dr. Ryan Person Director of Choral Activities, Associate Professor of Music
Dr. Bruce Wood, Dr. Ryan Person, and Tim Watson take a bow
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Get to Know Morningside Interim President Chad Benson
When Chad Benson ‘90 joined the Morningside University Board of Directors in 2016, he was excited to help move the institution forward. Flash forward nine years, the role he plays at Morningside is greater than he ever imagined.
Now serving as Morningside’s interim president, Benson brings years of leadership experience as a former CEO and COO to this two-year appointment. And he’s all in.
“They’re going to get, hopefully, the best of me,” Benson said on the Inside Mside podcast. “That means me being 110 percent all in. It’s the only way I know how to do it. We’re all going to need to come together and put our best foot forward. The trust of the board, the alignment, and the camaraderie — not every university board is like that.”
Benson was elevated to Chair of the Board of Directors in May 2024, working closely with the president’s office to support university strategy and mission. One of the key initiatives launched last year was Morningside in Motion, a campaign designed to maintain progress and ensure critical projects stay on schedule.
“For me, my responsibility was an effective transition of the president,” Benson said. “At first, I didn’t really expect it. We have so many good things, and the board didn’t want things to stall out. We’ve got a number of high-profile, on-campus projects that just can’t slow down.”
These projects include the acquisition of St. Luke’s College, a complete transformation of Morningside’s IT systems, the
By Zach James
construction of a new business building, and the enrollment of the largest class in Morningside’s modern history.
As a student-athlete, Benson was a linebacker on the Morningside football team while majoring in recreation management and minoring in business. His interest in the business world came later in his college career. He still remembers when it clicked during a class presentation with retired marketing professor Pam Mickelson.
“I was terrified to speak,” he said. “I took a deep breath and delivered the presentation (in Pam’s class), and that was it for me. I really wanted to do something in business. Getting to a point where you have that ability to pivot and explore is, I think, a really big deal. And that’s a big deal here at Morningside.”
Since that transformative moment, Benson has built an impressive career — working at Gateway and Capital One, co-founding LocateSmarter, leading CBE Companies as CEO, and holding COO roles at Account Control Technology and OvaInnovations. A Harvard University alumnus, he is also CoFounder and Chair of the Board of Directors at Quanyx.ai.
After their time on the East Coast, Benson and his wife, Lisa, returned to Cedar Falls, Iowa, with two of their three children. “Moving to the East Coast changed the game for us, and that was great for a long period of time,” he said. “But we wanted to get back closer to family.”
Now, back in Sioux City, Benson is committed to being a visible and engaged leader. Benson said he’s centering this year around two themes: "Morningside in Motion" and "What’s Your Story". Benson invites Morningsiders to keep pushing ahead together as a community and to highlight the value in every student’s journey and every colleague’s voice.
“I’m going to be an on-campus president,” he said. “I’m a people person. I’m going to be here. I like to get around and understand what [people] need to do their jobs and what kind of support they need.”
With his longstanding commitment to Morningside and a proven track record of leadership, Benson is ready to guide the university through this exciting chapter of growth.
VOICESStudent
A.I. on Campus
By Gabriel Ruiz '26
Although I may not fit the description of a certified "tech enthusiast," I find the rise and continuous advancement of artificial intelligence to be truly fascinating. If you’ve attended any class on campus that requires writing assignments of 500plus words, chances are you’ve heard someone mention the artificial intelligence language model, ChatGPT.
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, recently published an article highlighting a report that revealed that one-third of college-aged young adults in the United States use ChatGPT. Furthermore, approximately one-quarter of the messages they send through the platform are related to academic pursuits— ranging from starting papers and projects to exploring topics and brainstorming creative ideas.
56%
of College Students Have Used AI on Assignments or Exams
A survey conducted by bestcolleges.com found that 54 percent of students who participated said using AI on schoolwork or exams counts as cheating or plagiarism, while around 21 percent disagreed. The remaining 25 percent of students remained neutral on AI use.
How Are Colleges Responding?
Over 58 percent of students said their school or program has a policy about using generative AI tools to complete assignments or exams. This makes sense given how pervasive AI has been and continues to become in the ever-expanding digital era. However, more than one-quarter of students in the survey say some of their professors communicate a policy, and some do not. This may suggest the need for broader discussion and clarity on how AI should be used in academic settings.
Morningside University has taken a direct approach in addressing the rise of AI. Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs, Chris Spicer, provided insight into the ongoing training.
“Put together by the CIC (Council of Independent Colleges), ‘AI ready’ is a 12-month-long professional development for faculty
and staff. We have weekly webinars hosted by experts in the field.”
The mission statement of the AI training is “to foster learning, share resources, and increase effective adoption related to artificial intelligence.”
A philosopher’s take
Dr. Brandon Boesch was initially optimistic about AI but has since had a shift in perspective.
In May, Dr. Boesch published a thought-provoking essay in Aeon Magazine titled “More-than-human science. When AI takes over the practice of science, we will likely find the results strange and incomprehensible. Should we worry?” The piece explores the profound implications of artificial intelligence on the future of scientific inquiry, offering timely insights into how society should respond to this rapidly evolving field.
Dr. Boesch’s essay explores the balance between AI’s growing capabilities and the uniquely human elements of scientific discovery. He emphasizes that science is more than just results; it’s driven by curiosity, creativity, and a sense of wonder. “Science is valuable because it fosters intellectual engagement and questioning,” Dr. Boesch explains.
Dr. Boesch’s work on AI aligns with Morningside’s mission of fostering ethical, critical-thinking leaders equipped to tackle complex global challenges. Through his essay and ongoing contributions to classroom discussions, Dr. Boesch encourages students and educators alike to reflect on the purpose behind their learning and research.
“Education should be seen as something special, and it’s a privilege to engage in it,” says Dr. Boesch. “We don’t learn new things or write essays just for the final product. We do these things because the development of our fundamental intellectual capacities is a human good. AI should never overwrite this aspect of engaging intellectually as a human being.”
Where’s the line?
The real question isn’t whether using AI language models is cheating — it’s where we draw the line between using them as tools and crossing into dishonesty.
“At Morningside, we don’t see AI as a quick fix or a replacement for human ingenuity. Instead, it’s a spark that pushes us to ask tougher questions, dream bigger, and take responsibility for the world we’re shaping. Our goal is to ignite a love for learning and leadership in our students, helping them build real connections and find purpose in a world where being human— curious, creative, and caring—matters more than ever.” - Chad Benson, Interim President
The truth is, AI isn’t going anywhere. It’s only going to get smarter and more accessible. For academic institutions, the challenge isn’t just to keep up, but to embrace this shift, investing in the tools and knowledge needed to prepare students for a future where AI is an integral part of the equation.
Students here at Morningside shared their thoughts on the implications of AI use on campus:
“I believe it can be a very beneficial starting point for many things. The problem arises when students rely entirely on it and do not fact-check what the AI has given them. It is not always correct, and it benefits no one if it is relied upon entirely.”
“AI is ruining the integrity of thought. Students rely on it to think for them, and give up the ability to think critically on their own. While there are ways to apply it without ethical issues, the environmental impact required for that small action outweighs the benefits.”
“Although it can be helpful in numerous ways, college students are getting to the point where everything on their to-do list is being completed by AI. What are you learning in class if you don't do the work? You are paying thousands of dollars for an education that you are just cheating yourself out of. I am not going to pretend that I have never used ChatGPT to get me started on an assignment or generate some ideas and organization methods, but each person needs to look at themselves and ask how far is too far.”
"As a college student, using AI responsibly has been a game-changer. I don’t use it to do the work for me, but it helps me brainstorm, stay organized, and push my ideas further."
Students appear cautiously appreciative of AI’s potential to assist with workloads, while remaining acutely aware of the potential to hinder one’s academic development if not used responsibly.
Annual Honor Roll
$100,000 +
(VITA)L Service
Jefferson Fraser Estate
Douglas '64 & Mary (Sorenson) '64 Glasnapp
John & Karen Gleeson
Klinger Companies, Inc.
David Lageschulte Trust
Charles Martin '76
Robert Mishne Estate
Regina Roth
Craig '70 & Christine Struve
Tom Rosen '70
Jim '70 & Sharon '70 Walker
Connie Horton Wimer '54
PRESIDENT'S SOCIETY
The Morningside University President's Society recognizes donors who contribute $1,000 or more during a fiscal year (June 1 - May 31). It gives Morningside the opportunity to pay tribute and express gratitude to those donors who have demonstrated an extraordinary financial commitment. Morningside also acknowledges the Graduates Of the Last Decade (GOLD) who form the next generation of philanthropists through their gifts of $100 or more.
$50,000-$99,999
Larry Arnold '65 & Joan Arnold '67
Lucy Y. Buhler '56
Dwayne Curl Estate
Iowa College Foundation
Kind World Foundation
Rose Legler Morningside Trust
Michael & Jan (Sellen) '72 McGrane
Missouri River Historical Development
Cory Roberts, MD, MBA '90
The Verdoorn Foundation
$25,000-$49,999
Steven Armstrong '71
Jim & Mary Anne Carlson
Leslie Decker '68 Estate
Linda Healy
Larry '66 & Marybeth Heikes
Timothy '71 & Betty Jackes
Galen '68 & Ann Johnson
Rex Johnsrud '73
Dr. Esther Mackintosh '69
Khalid & Terrie Rasheed
Donna Roeper
Security National Bank
William Vust Estate
Carol A. Pencook Werner '69
Curt '76 & Linda White
Gregory Winneke '74
$10,000-$24,999
American Pop Corn Company
Jodi (Sohn) Bacon '91
Mike & Margie Bennett
Chad Benson '90
Diane Bushyager '62
Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust
Cy '71 & Karen (Smith) '71 Chesterman
Cy Chesterman, Jr. '91
Jay Chesterman '95
Chesterman Company
Chesterman Family Foundation
W. Roger '61 & Betty Curry
Charles '66 & Virginia (Landman) '66 Danish
Farm Credit Services of America
The Gilchrist Foundation
Nathan ’08 & Katie Harris
Dan '71 & Sue (Roberts) '72 Henderson
Zimco Supply Company
Iowa Annual Conference
Linda (Hoogensen) Jennings '86
Carol Junck
Harry '65 & Marlys Kitts
Dr. Gene '71 & Dr. Debra (Anderson) '73 Knudsen
Larry Mason '73
Gary '62 & Kathy (McComb) '63 McConnell
Nancy (Mullette) Meadows '71
Kory Mitchell '98
Ron '73 & Stephanie O'Neal
Doug & Cathy Palmer
Tegra Corporation
Marty Palmer
Palmer Candy Company
Peoples Bank
Tom & Paula Rice
Rick Collins Toyota
Ron & Robbie (Smith) '94 Rohlena
Reid Rosen '13
Marilyn (Schirck) Setzler '66
Siouxland Community Foundation
Lori & Mark '75 Stuck
Mia Sudo
Glenna (Erickson) Tevis '70
Donor-advised fund of Thrivent
Charitable Impact & Investing
Dr. Mark '69 & Linda (Stark) '69 Titus
Larry & Sue Utley
$5,000-$9,999
Chris '94 & Karen '95 (Bright) Benson
Rev. Neil Blair '73
Christopher '94 & Joy (Collins) '95 Bogenrief
Cargill
John Gregory '67 & Joan Everly '68 Clark
Barbara (Bossman) Daniels
Dr. William Deeds & Pamla Hoadley
Dennis Supply Company
Diesel Specialties, Inc.
Robert Ellingson, III
Scott '75 & Brenda (Obrecht) '74 Ernst
Mick & Pam Everett
Jan Rouse Finnegan '67
Cleo Franklin, Jr. '81
Gary '91 & Jeanette (Strub) '95 Frey
Mark '82 & Robin (Nilson) '82 Gambaiana
Jeanne (Gwinn) Hanna '65
Henjes, Conner & Williams P.C.
Dr. Marty Knepper '72
Robert Koshkarian '68
Constance (Hicks) Lewis '73
Laura (Grote) Longacre '84
Dennis '68 & Karen '72 Lumphrey
Nick '03 & JJ (Benson) '03 Marlow
Dixie (Kirkhart) Metcalf '58
Marlene (Gieselman) Meyer '84 & Capt. Peter Welch
Marjorie (McCracken) Morrell '70
Russell Movall '69
Carol (Dahl) Narak '71
Joan Nielsen
Russ '76 & Robyn (Reckert) '76 Olson
Paul '67 & Carol Payne
Thomas '72 & Patricia (Rasmussen) '75 Pohlman
Gregory Roeper
Emil O. Schultz Estate
President's Society
Jill Seinola '74
Dave '65 & Cathy Stead
Al Sturgeon '79
Thompson Solutions Group
Cliff '70 & Jean (Vandenburgh) '70 Tufty
Richard & Karleen Waller
$2,500-$4,999
Michael Abbott '70
Anonymous
Brent & Renee Beaulieu
Bob '63 & Margaret '63 Bell
Dr. Paul Berger III '03
Dr. J. Robert '70 & Christine Burkhart
Michael ’69 & Linda (Johnson) ’69 Cadwell
CMBA Architects
Steven '76 & Lynn (Farran) '83 Corrie
Crary Huff, P.C.
Jeremiah Curry '13
Kevin & Terri Curry
CW Suter Services
Dr. David '76 & Diane (Hantsbarger) '76 Davidson
J. Doug & J.R. Davis
Col. Dwight Dinkla '74
Allison (Westergaard) Dirksen '01
Thomas Dorr '69
Drs. Paul & Marilyn Eastman
Eide Bailly LLP
William Enockson '51
Scott Falk
Chris (Drum) Ferry '99
Tom '68 & Kris (Johnson) '70 Flynn
Dr. Bruce Forbes '70
Jason '03 & Cheri (Jorgensen) '03 Gehling
GELITA North America
Jan (Deemer) George '77 & Ted George
Dr. Tyrone Greive '65 & Janet Rayburn Greive
Mary Lou Haindfield '60
James '69 & Miriam Hanke
Lois Frieda Hansen Estate
Randy '72 & Becky Hansen
Tom & Julie Hanson
Janis '99 & Daryl Harrison
Shirley Hewlett
Ken '66 & Patsy Hoogensen
Jebro Inc.
Gary '68 & Judy (Murphey) '70 Jones
King, Reinsch, Prosser & Co.
Knife River Midwest, LLC
Robert G. Knowler
Jerry & Anne (Packard) '76 Kotlik
Clyde '61 & Marcia (Blenkarn) '64 Krause
Lance '70 & Linda Larson
Dale Lenderts '76
Tim '88 & Mary Beth McCabe
Dorothy McCormack Trust
Ryan '95 & Tracy (Bogenrief) '96 Meis
Ida (Childs) Milligan '90
Scott Morton '61
Sharon K. Nelson
Verne Nelson '75
Novelty Machine & Supply Co.
Dennis '72 & Cheryl (Everson) '72 Pederson
LaDonna (Rispalje) Preston '53
Dennis Reyman '92
John & Robin Reynders
Susan Roeper
Michael Schmidt
Steven Schmidt '73
Cole Schwarz '14
Ed '65 & Jane (Shrader) '70 Sibley
Siouxland Economic Development Corporation
Pamela Miller-Smith '79
Sodexo, Inc & Affiliates
State Steel Supply Company
John J. Steele '79
Dick '68 & Carol (Border) Stone
Michael '88 & Megan Tramp
UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's
Keith Vollstedt, M.D. '83 & Jaclyn Vollstedt
Walden Charitable Foundation
Bill '86 & Rhonda (Schreur) '85 Zahren
$1,000-$2,499
Peggy (Hamann) Adams '63
Brent '84 & Susan (Brady) '85 Aden
Kathy (Majorowicz) Agness '60
Rev. Paul Akin '68
Dr. Clark Albert '77
Dr. Donald Ambroson '66
Anderson Brothers Printing Co.
Gary '61 & Terri Anderson
Renea (Springer) Anderson '94
Anonymous (2)
Dr. Gary '70 & Laurel (Nagel) '70 Armstrong
Bacon Creek Design, Inc.
Barry & Sandra Backhaus
Dr. John & Lynne Baller
Dr. Jackie (Brummond) Barber '95 & Scott Barber '94
Adam '97 & Lynn (Callon) '97 Baumgartner
James Beermann '66
Shari (Vaudt) '82 & Marc Benson
Bob Roe’s Point After Bomgaars Supply
Keith Bottorff '72
Lynne (Erickson) Boulden '74 & Dennis Boulden
Scott & Ruth Boyer
William Brandt '65
Matthew '03 & Kelli (McGill) '02 Britton
Jeremy Bullock '00
William Burke
Dr. Randall & Deb Burnight
Carter '84 & Karen (Brubaker) '81 Burnside
Janis Callison '75
Matt '98 & Stacey Campbell
Chris '89 & Heidi (Hobson) '93 Cassaday
Dennis Chapman '70
Maxine (Shun) Chou '70
Gregory Clark '25
James Clark '82
Larry Corrington '77
Dr. Daniel Cox
Bob '87 & Sandy (Popenhagen) '73 Craig
James '64 & Char (Strand) '64 Cuttell
Gretchen (Bottom) Dalzell
Margaret (Sellen) Dana
Lt. Gen. Ron Dardis '65
Deane Davenport '72
Gary Davis '65
Paul '84 & Karmin (Rogers) '86 DeBey
Dorothy (Hoh) DeGroot '74
Willie Delfs '83 - Able Homebuilders
Rosa Diaz
Craig '86 & Cindy (Hawn) '87 Dozark
Echo Electric Supply
Dr. Erin & Jeff Edlund
Karen Einsidler
Michael '72 & Carolyn Ellwanger
Emerald Hills LLC
Virginia (Peverly) Erickson '77
Mark Faber '81
Beverly (Tucker) '71 Fest & Bruce Fest
Scott '14 & Cameron (Oakley) '14 Finke
Foulk Bros. Plumbing & Heating
Trent & Kendra (Kock) '10 Fredericksen
Gary '74 & Debby (Dobrovolny) '75 Garst
Charles & Shanna Gauger
Tom Gehl '75
Carlene (Erikson) Gehrts '58
Franklin Gilbert '62
Douglas '69 & Marcia (Small) '69 Grabinski
Tom '81 & Gina (Bryan) '81 Grimsley
Vara Bones Groot
Mary Gay Gunsch
Brayton Hagge '17
Troy Hames III '81
Steven Hansen '77 & Glenda Den Herder '79
Nancy (Hose) Harper '72
Sally Hartley
Linda (Readout) Harward '81
Brett '14 & Stacie Hays
Steven '82 and Judie Hayward
Russell '09 & Ashley (Danner) '09 Heine
Timothy Held
Dennis Henrichs '69
Richard & Mary Hettinger
Max '62 & Judy (Daniels) '64 Hill
Bruce Holmgren '70
Dave Honeck '75
Dave Hutchinson '71
Roger Jensen '70
Brian Johnson '83
Dr. Edward Johnson '73
Jeraldine (Sloan) Johnson '65
Mike & Char Jorgensen
Dr. Beau Kildow '10
DeWitt '59 & Phyllis (Mackintosh) '60 Killam
John Kilstrom '63
Cindy (Penning) Kinney '03
Knoepfler Chevrolet
David Knol '59
BJ '03 & Kristin (Olson) '01 Koch
Bruce '60 & Beverly (Frazier) '63 Kolbe
Ronald Krager '68
Mike & Lisa Krohn
Linda (Lamoureux) Krueger '79
Dr. Paula Kueter
Lee's Roofing LLC
Charles '75 & Marilyn (Horswell) '76 Leissler
Lewis Electric Co.
Charles Lindberg '73
Randy & Wendy (Roberts) '81 Livings
Aaron '93 & Peggy Lukken
Mark & Jes Lumsden
Brett Lyon '04
Becky (Boigegrain) Martin '74
Burlin Matthews
Tim McCabe '06
Don '72 & JoAn (Wolf) '72 McCulloch
John '52 & Janice (Haupt) '51 Mechem
Walter Miller '63
Michael Montague '76
Bill & Ann (Michener) '66 Mrla
Dr. David Mulder '61
Taera (Stille) Mulder '05
Terry Muldowney '68
Elizabeth (Potter) Nash '76
Sandra (Edwards) Newberry '64
Mary (Clarke) Newton '78
Kirk '85 & Sonja (Andresen) '85 Nielsen
Dennis Nitz
Derek '09 & Tarah (Sagedahl) '09 Nolan
Kris (Sargent) Noreen '80
Janet (Barks) O'Brien '79
Marc '02 & Jill (Simmons) '02 Obbink
Mike & Mary Origer
Michael Owen '59
Asa '67 & Karen (Brenner) '69 Oye
Mary Packard-Winkler, PhD
Dr. Thomas Packard '70
David Patch '82
David & Marta (Johnson) '72 Patee
John '74 & Catherine (Aunan) '76 Paul
Thomas & Michelle Paulsen
Gwen (Johnson) Pedrick '77
Dr. John Pinto
Pioneer Bank
Plains Mechanical Services, Inc.
Larry '72 & Nancy (Jacobs) '72 Podey
Andrew Poeckes '14
Audrey (Smeins) Poppen '59
Prestige Collision Centers
Steven Reed '76
Douglas Rice '75
Chris Rich '90
Randal '77 & Julie (Grassman) '81 Richardson
Michael '66 & Linda (Jalas) '67 Rickert
Rev. Allen '73 & Donna (Tack) '72 Ricks
Patrick '86 & Sandy Rogers
Jim '74 & Marsha (Wedeking) Royster
Dr. Keith Ruffcorn '76
Dan '00 & Anne (Cady) '00 Ryan
Richard Salem '65
Scheels Sports
Dr. Donald Schenk
Dave '75 & Lynn Schlesser
Laura (Scammacca) Schmitt '89
Michael & Mary Margaret Schoep
Kevin '87 & Eunice (Tseng) '85 Scholten
Donne & Marian (Meyer) '95 Schuldt
Margaret (Dilly) Sears '71
Thomas Selwold
Dr. Larry & Pauline (Gensler) '89 Sensenig
Wayne Shively '65
Siouxland Federal Credit Union
Brad '02 & Kathy (Cave) '02 Sitzmann
Darrell Smith '74
Greg '82 & Deb (Carlson) '82 Smith
Dr. Jerome '75 & Cheryl (Hogeboom) '75 Smith
La Vone Sopher '79 & Randy Bradley '91
Donna (Lageschulte) '69 & Ken '68 Speake
Chris & Christy Spicer
Lynn (Litterick) Splittorff '70
Stalcup Agricultural Service
Kimberly (Christophersen) Steffen '92
Jay '85 & Rhonda (Evilsizer) '88 Stidham
Strawn Construction Services Inc.
J. William '09 & Kate Swanson
Cheryl Tevis '72
Jean Theobald '79
Barb (King) Thompson '89
Don Thompson '65
Michael '71 & Terry (McCue) '72 Thonnerieux
Dimiter '94 & Shiloh (Woolman) '96 Todorov
Paul '84 & Nancy (Miller) '92 Treft
David W. Treimer '80
Peggy Vagts '76 & Mark Miller
Donald '55 & Eunice Van Der Weide
John Vermilyea '67
Dennis & Cynthia Wagner
Dr. Neil '62 & Lynne (Minear) '61 Wainwright
Spencer '13 & Skylore (Curry) '18 Walker
Dr. Craig Wansink '84
Scott & Carol (Bear) '86 Warren
Thomas Warren '83
Dick Weikert
Craig '84 & Joan Werner
Jim '75 & Kathy '78 Westergaard
Karen Wiese '97
Scott Wilcox '81
Mike '07 & Kari (Bull) '03 Winklepleck
Woodhouse Auto
Randy Yockey '73
President’s Society Gold Members
Jackson Allen '19
Garrett Anderson '23
Garrett '23 & Skyler Arbuckle
Jared '20 & Michal (Widjaja) '20 Bade
By Alisanne Struck
Erin Baker '18
Brenick Birks Hoppe '24
Kevin Blosch '24
Nicholas J. Brincks '14 & Paige E. (Potter)
Brincks '15
Alec DeVries '17
Ely Doble '24
Jackson Dotzler '24
Nicholas Drenth '15
Kelli Flack '21
Eric Gahlon '15
Danny A. Graves '18 & Natasha E. Hongsermeier-Graves '17
Laura Greene '24
Taylor Greene '24
Emma Hannasch '23
Colin Higgins '16
Braxton '22 & Lauren (Rohwer) '22 Hinders
Casey & Heidi (Harman) '16 Jacobsen
Gregory Kirwan '18
Gabby (Roe) Koithan '20
Dexter Lambie '16
Christian Leonard '24
Carlie Maasz '17
Reilly Mahon '19
Isaac Maurice '23
Camrie Miranda '24
Brady '11 & Callie (Anderson) '15 Nurse
Tyler Paulson '19
Rulin '15 & Gabrielle (French) '16 Pederson
Dr. Kim (Cannegieter) Perry '21
William '24 & Liz (Zobel) '24 Pinnow
Brendan Pinto '15
Mollie (Richardson) Pry '17
Linda (Gearheart) Richardson '19
Dylan Riley '20
Samantha (Johnson) Rozeboom '20
Eric '17 & Moriah (Bohlmann) '18 Salmonson
Zachary Schleuger '16 & Sidney
Hildahl-Schleuger '19
James '22 & Faith (Laskie) '23 Spicer
Samantha Stark '20
Alex '16 & Megan (Carlson) '16 Struck
Katie Sullivan '22
Ryan Swanson '20
Garrett Temme '20
Elizabeth Thies '20
Chandler Todd '24
Connor Treft '18
Nathan & Sarah (Merrigan) '20 Turner
K.J. Williams '24
W.S. LEWIS SOCIETY
The W.S. Lewis Society pays tribute to individuals and families who have included Morningside in their estate plans or have supported the university through an endowed scholarship gift. For more information, go to legacy.morningside.edu or contact JJ Marlow at marlow@morningside.edu.
Michael '72 & Linda (McFarlane) '72 Alexander
Gene Ambroson
Gary '61 & Terri Anderson
Anonymous (3)
Larry '65 & Joan (Errett) '67 Arnold
Dr. Craig '70 & Sandy '70 Bainbridge
Carole Beck
Bob '63 & Margaret '63 Bell
Mike & Margie Bennett
David Blair
Jonathan '01 & Stacy Blum
David '58 & Bonnie Bogue
Mary Ann Bolton
Lynne (Erickson) Boulden '74 & Dennis Boulden
Muriel (Lambert) Briggs '48
Lucy Y. Buhler '56
Dr. J. Robert '70 & Christine Burkhart
Diane Bushyager '62
G. Ray Bushyager '67
Douglas Lee Camarigg
Matt '98 & Stacey Campbell
Charles Carlberg '69
Chris '89 & Heidi (Hobson) '93 Cassaday
John Gregory '67 & Joan Everly '68 Clark
Joe Clausen '65
Jon '64 & Anne Cleghorn
Warren Conner '60
John Connor II '66
Carolyn (Wolle) Cox '47
Bob '87 & Sandy (Popenhagen) '73 Craig
Dr. Larry Crummer '71 & Bill Oman
Gretchen (Bottom) Dalzell
Barbara Danger '67
Charles '66 & Virginia (Landman) '66 Danish
Deane Davenport '72
Dr. David '76 & Diane (Hantsbarger) '76 Davidson
Gary Davis ’65
Nancy (Nelson) DeMeyer '76
Rev. Msgr. R. Mark Duchaine
Josh & Anne Ellwanger
Michael '72 & Carolyn Ellwanger
Mr. & Mrs. Richard C. Engle
William Enockson '51
Paul K. Erbes
Mick & Pam Everett
Beverly (Tucker) '71 Fest & Bruce Fest
Jan Rouse Finnegan '67
Dan L. Flanagan '69
Carol (Loken) Forbes '70
Jerry Foxhoven '74
Mike & Mary Freeman
Mark Freerks '79
Janice (Lingebach) Galli '76
Mark '82 & Robin (Nilson) '82 Gambaiana
Jan (Deemer) George '77 & Ted George
Donald Gimberline
David Gould '75
Dr. Tyrone Greive '65 & Janet Rayburn Greive
Troy Hames III '81
James Hamilton '53
Margaret (Wood) Hancock '54
James '69 & Miriam Hanke
Randy '72 & Becky Hansen
James '69* & Carol (Seagren) '72 Hanthorne
Janis '99 & Daryl Harrison
Linda (Readout) Harward '81
Larry '66 & Marybeth Heikes
Dan '71 & Sue (Roberts) '72 Henderson
Richard & Mary Hettinger
Shirley Hewlett
Max '62 & Judy (Daniels) '64 Hill
Dave Honeck '75
Robert Hoover '71
Jerry & Carol Israel
Timothy '71 & Betty Jackes
Linda (Hoogensen) Jennings '86
Keith '92 & Jodi (Johnson) '94 Jones
Ron '79 & Kathy Jorgensen
James & Mary (Rogers) '68 Kaplafka
Richard '71 & Frances (Radtke) '71 Keith
DeWitt '59 & Phyllis (Mackintosh) '60 Killam
Harry '65 & Marlys Kitts
Robert G. Knowler
Suzanne (Andresen) Kolbo '15
Robert Koshkarian '68
John & Nancy (Cummings) '79 Lawrence
Arthur Leiby '73
Sherri Levers ’81
Barbara Lewison '86
Aaron '93 & Peggy Lukken
Dennis '68 & Karen '72 Lumphrey
Brett Lyon '04
Dr. Esther Mackintosh '69
Nick '03 & JJ (Benson) '03 Marlow
Charles Martin '76
Charles '67 & Patricia Mason
Larry Mason '73
Russell McComsey '75
Gary '62 & Kathy (McComb) '63 McConnell
Michael & Jan (Sellen) '72 McGrane
Jennifer McNeil, MD
John '52 & Janice (Haupt) '51 Mechem
Bonnie '64 & Donald Messer
Dixie (Kirkhart) Metcalf '58
Ervin Miller
Joyce Moore
Marjorie (McCracken) Morrell '70
Russell Movall '69
Carol (Dahl) Narak '71
James '80 & Susan '81 Nelson
Jon D. Nelson '78
Sharon K. Nelson
Steven Nelson '74
David Nielsen
Donna Ocker
Mark O’Connell '85
Russ '76 & Robyn (Reckert) '76 Olson
Ron '73 & Stephanie O'Neal
Mark Packard '73
Doug & Cathy Palmer
David Patch '82
Gary '63 & Beverly Peterson
Margaret (Lohr) Phelps '55
Barbara Pitts '70
Audrey (Smeins) Poppen '59
John Prast '65
LaDonna (Rispalje) Preston '53
O. Nelson Price '51
Khalid & Terrie Rasheed
John & Robin Reynders
Tom & Paula Rice
Randal '77 & Julie (Grassman) '81 Richardson
Cory A. Roberts, MD, MBA '90
Donna Roeper
Leo Roepke '59
Tom Rosen '70
Marcelene Saylor
Jill Seinola '74
Ed '65 & Jane (Shrader) '70 Sibley
Pamela Miller-Smith '79
La Vone Sopher '79 & Randy Bradley '91
Rosalee (Jacobson) Sprout '60
Rod '74 & Ginger (Doidge) '74 Stemme
Dick '68 & Carol (Border) Stone
Don '61 & Diane (Huntsinger) '63 Taylor
Nick & Trace Taylor
Patricia (Kirkhofer) Thompson '53
Dr. Mark '69 & Linda (Stark) '69 Titus
Carlton Tronvold '61
Stephen '67 & Theresa Ullman
Peggy Vagts '76 & Mark Miller
Jim '70 & Sharon '70 Walker
James '59 & Joyce (Fry) '61 Weaver
Philip Webb '81
Curt '76 & Linda White
Karen Wiese '97
Korey Willnauer '74
Connie Horton Wimer '54
Mike '07 & Kari (Bull) '03 Winklepleck
Gregory Winneke'74
Ronald Yockey ’70
MAYTERM recap
• A Taste of Greece
• 21 Days in the UK
• Latina/o/e Communities in Siouxland
• Garden to Table
• The World of Whiskey
• Urban Explorations
• Mside Bands Midwest Tour & Experiences
• Eating Siouxland
• Tanzania
• Cooking Ethnic Produce and Ginger Drink
• History of the World in Six Glasses
• Life Lessons 101
• Bob the Builder Wishes He Took This Class
• Society through the Lens of Action Adventure Movies
Johnston Competes on National Stage
Morningside University senior Julianne Johnston has earned national recognition as a finalist in the Theatre Journalism and Advocacy competition at the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival.
Last spring, she traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent Region 5 — one of eight regions across the country — as the only student finalist from an NAIA school.
Johnston advanced by writing two reviews at the regional festival, including an analysis of the one-man play "The Genius of Being Stupid". Her selection highlights both her determination to try a new skill and her growth as a writer.
Morningside Students Honored at Women of Excellence Awards
Morningside was well-represented at the annual Women of Excellence Awards Banquet. Student Aabiskar Sharma '25 received the Young Women of Excellence award, and Sami Giesen '25 was recognized with the Women of Promise award. Faculty members Melissa Nelson and Dr. Leslie Werden were also celebrated as nominees, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication within the Morningside community.
PROFESSORS in Golf Carts in Golf Carts
Morningside University marketing interns have revitalized its YouTube series, “Professors in Golf Carts.”
This quirky and engaging series features short, candid interviews with faculty members as they ride around campus in a golf cart, chatting about everything from academics and campus life to lighthearted, fun topics. The revival of this initiative has brought a renewed sense of community and creativity to Morningside’s digital presence, showcasing the university’s personality in a way that’s both entertaining and authentic.
SCAN THE QR CODE to check
out the epsiodes.
Great Shots Golf - Sioux Falls, SD
Okoboji,
Omaha Zoo Tour
Kansas City Current
Iowa Cubs Baseball
DR. GREGORY GUELCHER DELIVERS LECTURE IN EGYPT
Dr. Gregory Guelcher, a history professor at Morningside University, recently concluded his sabbatical with a lecture at the American University in Cairo (AUC) titled “Japanese Imperialism in Manchuria, 1930s–1940s.” This opportunity stemmed from a collaboration encouraged by Dr. Patrick McKinlay, who had previously connected Morningside and AUC students through joint virtual classes. Guelcher’s in-person visit highlighted themes of imperialism and colonialism, with students drawing insightful parallels between Chinese experiences under Japanese rule and their own history under British colonialism. Impressed by AUC’s intellectual vibrancy, Guelcher hopes to foster lasting connections between the institutions, potentially leading a May Term trip to Egypt in the future. Meanwhile, he plans to integrate his global experiences into his courses, emphasizing cross-cultural discussions to enrich his students’ perspectives.
DR. THOMAS PAULSEN HONORED WITH IOWA FFA SERVICE AWARD
Dr. Thomas Paulsen, Dean of the School of Agriculture and Aviation at Morningside University, received the Distinguished Service Award from the Iowa FFA Association during the 97th Iowa FFA Leadership Conference in Ames, recognizing his exceptional and sustained contributions to agricultural education and the FFA mission in Iowa. With a career spanning over 38 years, Dr. Paulsen began his FFA journey as a student at Atlantic High School, later teaching high school agricultural education for 21 years and preparing nearly 200 Iowa agriculture teachers in higher education since 2008. A former Iowa FFA Board of Directors member and long-time supporter of the Iowa Agricultural Sales Career Development Event, he has also earned the Honorary Iowa FFA Degree and multiple Honorary Chapter Degrees for his dedication to students, educators, and the agricultural community. Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Paulsen expressed gratitude for the opportunity to mentor and inspire future leaders in agriculture.
PROFESSOR SHELBY PRINDAVILLE'S ARTISTIC JOURNEY IN JAPAN
Shelby Prindaville, Professor of Art, has had an extraordinary journey of artistic exploration and cultural exchange in Japan over the past two years. In June 2024, she completed an artist residency at Arts Itoya in Takeo, Japan, which culminated in a solo exhibition and lecture. Supported by Morningside University board member Mia Sudo, Shelby returned to Japan in 2025 for two solo exhibitions showcasing her Japanese-inspired work alongside pieces from her broader oeuvre—one in Yamanashi City, Sioux City’s sister city, and another at Kansai Gaidai University in Kyoto. This ambitious endeavor involved shipping 20 paintings internationally, a first for Shelby, and deepened her expertise in logistics, ceramics, and cultural artistry. While in Japan, she served as a guest artist at elementary schools, participated in traditional craft workshops, and engaged with the Japanese press and academic communities.
Her journey concluded with a second residency at Arts Itoya and a third solo show in June 2025. Shelby will share the fruits of this remarkable experience in an upcoming exhibition at Morningside University’s Eppley Art Gallery this fall.
NEW FACULTY
Dr. Dick Davis II has joined the School of Business as an assistant professor of business. Davis brings a unique background in Responsible AI, entrepreneurial leadership, and executive consulting, with professional experience spanning journalism and technologydriven innovation. He earned his Doctor of Business Administration from the University of South Florida, an Executive MBA from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications from Southern University and A&M College.
Kali Hill ‘21, MSN, RN, CNL is an Associate Professor for the Nylen School of Nursing at Morningside University. She received her Bachelor of Science in nursing degree from Morningside College and her Master of Science in nursing degree with an emphasis on clinical nurse leadership from Morningside University. Kali Hill teaches in the traditional undergraduate program. She has years of nursing experience in trauma nursing at a local trauma emergency department and volunteers as a nurse for her local fire department to provide community health. She is deeply committed to supporting nursing students as they grow into competent and compassionate future nurses.
Whitney Lloyd ‘08, MSN, RN, CNL, is a new assistant professor in the BSN nursing program. She is a Morningside Alumna and, more recently, is a 2025 Morningside MSN graduate. Throughout her 17-year nursing career, she has experienced several nursing specialties, including labor and delivery, post-partum, and family practice. Whitney is also starting her fourth year as an assistant softball coach for the Mustangs.
Dr. Corraine McNeill has joined Morningside University as an Associate Professor of Biology in the Department of Natural Sciences. Dr. McNeill combines extensive teaching, industry, and leadership experience with a strong commitment to student mentorship, having guided numerous students through research projects that connect science to real-world challenges. Her research focuses on urban pest management, bioinspired design, and advancing STEM education through innovative curriculum development. Dr. McNeill earned her B.Sc. in Biology from Randolph Macon Woman’s College and went on to complete her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida.
Dr. Seth McNeill is a new visiting professor in computer science. He has worked in various industry positions, including starting his own company and working for the USDA. He has also taught engineering and computer science at several universities. His Bachelor's of Engineering is from Walla Walla University, and his Master's and Ph.D. are from the University of Florida.
Dr. Mohamed Nasr joins Morningside University as an Assistant Professor of Special Education in the Sharon Walker School of Education. He earned his Ph.D. in Special Education from the University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign and previously worked in special education with Des Moines Public Schools. His research focuses on the implementation of IEP-aligned literacy goals and the instructional strategies teachers use to support diverse learners. He is especially interested in preparing future teachers to meet the needs of students with disabilities through effective and inclusive practices.
Dr. Courtney M. Ott, DNP, MSN, BS, RN, joins Morningside University as an Associate Professor of Nursing. She brings more than two decades of nursing and teaching experience, having served in clinical, educational, and leadership roles at St. Luke’s College and Briar Cliff University. A lifelong learner and advocate for student well-being, Dr. Ott earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Leadership and Education from Mount Marty University and is passionate about preparing future nurses while promoting wellness and academic success.
Dr. Greg Seier, Ed.D., joins Morningside University as an Assistant Professor for the newly created Exercise Science degree. He brings 20 years of experience as an athletic trainer and teaching experience in health and human performance. Before joining us, he was the Director of Sports Medicine & an Associate Professor of Practice in the Health and Human Performance Department at Doane University. Dr. Seier earned his Bachelor's and Doctorate of Education from Doane, and his Master's from Wayne State University.
Dr. Shannon Stewart ’21 joins Morningside University as an assistant professor in the Graduate Nursing department of the Nylen School of Nursing and Health Sciences. With over 20 years of nursing experience in home care, hospice, med/surg, and community health, she earned her DNP from Morningside University and has been an adjunct faculty member since 2008. Dr. Stewart has spent the past decade as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Siouxland Community Health Center, specializing in HIV and Hepatitis C treatments, as well as infectious disease, neurology, and neurosurgery.
Harley Waters is an assistant professor of Aviation in the School of Agriculture and Aviation. Before coming to Morningside, she was an aviation instructor at Middle Tennessee State University. Waters holds a bachelor's degree from Liberty University and a Master of Science in Aviation Education from Middle Tennessee State University.
Dr. Wenjing (Jessie) Zhou, Ph.D., joins Morningside University as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry. She earned her doctorate at The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, where she studied the reaction dynamics of ionic liquid clusters in electrospray plumes with applications to aerospace propulsion. Dr. Zhou teaches general and analytical chemistry and integrates computational and theoretical chemistry to engage undergraduates in modern research methods. She is passionate about mentoring students from diverse backgrounds and helping them succeed in science.
Stevens
receives Wert Award
Dean Stevens was awarded the Lucille and Charles Wert Faculty Excellence Award. The Wert Award honors faculty for their excellence in teaching, civility, and concern for students and colleagues in a variety of settings.
NEW AND RETURNING STAFF HIRES
Ryan Allen, Coordinator of Collaborative Research
Chad Benson ‘90, Interim President
Katie Birch, Administrative Coordinator
Megan Callahan ‘25, Admissions Counselor
Casey Clemens, Data Manager
Lindsey Combs, Assistant Director Student Financial Planning
Jade Delagarza, Housekeeper
Garret Ehlers ‘14, Assistant Cross Country & Track and Field Coach
Melissa Gritzmaker, Administrative Coordinator
Melissa Jensen, Associate Business/Controller
Jen Kaiser, Sponsored Programs Coordinator
Bradley Keane, Strength and Conditioning Coach
Taira Kraft, Housekeeper
Meredith Maassen, Digital Marketing Coordinator
Devin Pettenger, Director of Equipment Operations
Haley Riffey, Housekeeper
Maddy Slaughter ‘23, Admissions Counselor
Kolyn St. Aubin ‘20, Esports Coach
Bess Telfer ‘25, Admissions Counselor
Leslie Willet, Placement Coordinator for Education
Chris Womack, Assistant Football Coach
CHANGES AND PROMOTIONS
Geo Ascencio – Program Coordinator
Joan Shaputis – Assistant Dean of Operations
Susan Trisler – Unit Records Manager
Chris Silva – Offensive Coordinator/Assistant Football Coach
Steph Peters '99 – Vice President of Enrollment Management
Stacie Hays – Vice President for University Engagement
Ellen Dirks – Human Resources/Financial Coordinator
Tami Burnett '96 – Central Scheduling and IT Assets Manager in IT
CLASS NOTES
Class Notes
Catch up with your Morningside Community in these pages. Have something to share? Send us your good news, job updates, big life moments, or anything you’d like us to know.
Milestones and Memories
1947
Evelyn (Walker) Freeman celebrated her 100th birthday on May 10th.
1971
W. Patrick Murphy is happy to announce the formation of Medorg LLC for cosmetic tourism services with a focus on procedures done in Colombia.
1985
Randy Gaulke's small-group battlefield tour company is completing its fifth season, with a WWI battlefield tour in France in September and a WWII battlefield tour in Germany and Austria in
1991
early October. Randy enjoys using his language and business skills learned at Morningside in his second career.
1986
Steve Graff retired from Principal Financial Group as an Underwriting Consultant for 28 years. Post retirement, Steve is the General Manager and Wine Concierge for Boundary Social Club and Wine Vault.
Dennis Lauver was named as one of “The 500 Most Influential Business Leaders “ in the State of Iowa by the Corridor Business Journal that is published in Cedar Rapids. He is in his 11th year as one of two broker owners of a 17 licensee Realtor firm based in Clinton, Iowa. He previously spent 25 years in the chamber of commerce business in Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas.
Kevin Hedemark is the Public Information Officer for the Will County, Illinois Sheriff's Office. He is responsible for disseminating information regarding the affairs of the Will County Sheriff's Office, including press conferences, press releases and public relations events.
1996
Scott Moseman gave a lecture titled "Lt. Newton A. McCully and the Russo-Japanese War" to the Department of Humanities at Morningside University on April 23rd. Students and faculty attended the presentation at Charles City Hall.
2010
Catelin (Hoistad) Drey secured a decisive victory in the August 26th, special election for Iowa Senate District 1 as a first-time candidate. Drey is a long-time community advocate, most recently through her Instagram community, Moms for Iowa. She lives in Sioux City with her husband, Tyrel (2010) and their five-year-old daughter.
2001
Jonathan Blum was honored with an appointment to the Sioux City Board of Review, which provides oversight and guidance to citizens and local government authorities regarding real estate assessments. This civic duty is balanced with his small business nonprofit consulting firm, JB Consulting, which launched in 2023.
2005
Elizabeth (Jessen) Barrrett is now an ECSE Teacher/Consultant at Northwest Area Education Agency.
Dustin Cooper - Siouxland Sports Academy received the Champion of Tourism award from the State of Iowa Tourism Conference 2025.
2015
Katie Copple was named Morning News Anchor for News 4 Today at KTIV-TV, the newscast that first inspired her love for journalism as a young girl. She’s excited to wake up with Siouxland every morning alongside veteran KTIV Anchor Al Joens and Meteorologist Jacob Howard!
2014
Tasha (Drey) Goodvin earned a master’s degree in communication leadership from Drake University in May 2025. She is the associate vice president for marketing and communication at Morningside University.
2015
Alex Pacheco started a podcast with alumnus Josh Creekmore '11 called You're Blocking The TV, a podcast for adults and working parents to stay caught up on the sports landscape. They are using their degrees to have a place to talk sports, TV, and their kids that are constantly blocking the TV. youtube.com/@YoureBlockingtheTV
2016
Jared McCoy is a financial advisor at NFP Wealth Management Nashville, specializing in clients with substantial assets, advising them toward financial security and growth.
2017
Jackie Bossman now works as the Legislative Director and Counsel in the Office of U.S. Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03). During her time at Morningside, she was the President of the College Republican chapter and heavily involved in the Morningside Civic Union. She also had the opportunity to intern with Senator Grassley both in Washington, D.C. and in the Sioux City office.
Kendall Kumba is a Legal Assistant for Austin Kippley PLC in Rock Rapids, Iowa.
2019
Jacob Brand is now the Secondary Principal for grades 6-12 at the Homer, Nebraska, Community Schools, leading a staff of 23 educators.
Miranda Shipley-Klemme has accepted a position as Assistant Principal with Des Moines Public Schools. She’s excited to begin this new chapter in educational leadership and looks forward to making a meaningful impact within the Des Moines school community.
2020
Adam Kascht passed all sections of the CPA exam and is now a licensed CPA in the state of South Dakota.
2022
Brenton Storm has been commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Iowa Army National Guard.
2023
Robin Thomala completed his Dual Degree Master Study (MBA at Post
University, Master of Science in International Management at Steinbeis School of International Business and Entrepreneurship)
2024
Camrie Miranda is the Agency Relations Manager at the Food Bank of Siouxland, managing relations between pantries and the food bank, including conducting inspections, keeping pantries up to date, and following federal guidelines.
2025
Hanna (Blackmore) Lee graduated from the Iowa Online Nurse Residency Program. As part of her residency, Hannah led a workplace safety initiative, providing education and training to nursing staff on new safety measures.
Tom Moss is now employed at Lashley Land & Recreational Brokers as a Farm/ Ranch Manager and Real Estate Sales Associate. Tom partners with farm/ranch landowners to achieve goals of profitability, legacy planning, and sustainability through hands-on management, financial forecasting, and strategic leasing. Licensed Nebraska real estate agent with a focus on farm and ranch transactions.
2015
Brandon McComas recently started a new job as the Research Director at Resonance Consultancy, a firm that specializes in analytics, marketing, and strategy for cities and communities across the globe.
Future Morningsiders
2013
Keith Chvatal and Jacy (Jahn) Chvatal) welcomed Lettie Chvatal on June 5, 2025.
Emily (Lechtenberg) Krummel and Jason Krummel welcomed Bennett Krummel on May 22, 2025.
Cory and Ashleigh (Starr) Maassen '14 welcomed Griffin Maassen on May 8, 2025
2014
Caleb '15 and Christine (Madsen) Kluender welcomed Teddy Joshua Kluender on July 10, 2025.
Renee (Van Beaumont) Lund and Vincent Lund welcomed Keegan Beau Lund on April 17, 2025.
2018
Erin (Oliver) Baker and Drew Baker welcomed Beau Keith Baker on May 13, 2025.
2019
Megan (Stoberl) Ballou and Wyatt Ballou welcomed Remi Ballou on June 19, 2025.
Krista (Waite) Bonzer and Ethan Bonzer welcomed Eugene Bonzer on Feb. 21, 2025.
Nic Madsen and Madeline Madsen welcomed Archie James Madsen on Sept. 8, 2025.
Keagan and Jayci (Hinker) Putnam welcomed Elara Madison Putnam on Nov. 29, 2024.
2020
Samantha (Anderson) Protexter and Joseph Protexter welcomed Jovie Louise Protexter on Aug. 5, 2025.
2022
Braxton and Lauren (Rohwer) Hinders welcomed Hudson Russell Hinders Sept. 5, 2025.
Keegan Beau Lund
Hudson Russell Hinders
Jovie Louise Protexter
Archie James Madsen
Eugene Bonzer
Remi Ballou
Beau Keith Baker
Elara Madison Putnam
Bennett Krummel
Griffin Maassen
Lettie Chvatal
Newlyweds
2015
Eric Koithan and Tiffany (Stubbs) Koithan, June 12, 2025.
2018
Rachel (Potter) Montino and Michael Montino, April 25, 2025.
2021
Samuel Padilla and Jazmine Kay Adamson, September 12, 2025.
2023
Benedict Steffens and Erin (Georgesen) Steffens, Feb. 14, 2025.
Matt Hanner and Karie (Klingensmith) Hanner '22, Aug. 24, 2024.
Jake Knott and Jayci (Miller) Knott ‘21, Aug. 31, 2025
2024
Hanna (Blackmore) Lee and Zach Lee, Aug. 2, 2025.
Isaac Pingel and Hannah (Harris) Pingel, March 16, 2025.
2025
Christian Godfredson and Mandi (De Jongh) Godfredson, June 13, 2025.
Brianna (Lux) Hansen and Brandon Hansen, Aug. 16, 2025.
Jake Knott '23 and Jayci (Miller) Knott ‘21
Isaac Pingel '24 and Hannah (Harris) Pingel '24
Brianna (Lux) Hansen '25 and Brandon Hansen
Hanna (Blackmore) Lee '24 and Zach Lee
Rachel (Potter) Montino '18 and Michael Montino
Matt Hanner '22 and Karie (Klingensmith) Hanner '22
Christian Godfredson '25 and Mandi (De Jongh) Godfredson '25
In Loving Memory
1941
Lucille Hakala Buffalo, N.Y., died June 4, 2025.
1947
Donna (Sverson) Bebber Lakeland, Fla., died March 12,2025.
1948
Harley Grantham Morris, Minn., died Feb. 16, 2025.
1949
Patsy Olson Plano, Texas, died June 1, 2025.
William Wolle Germantown, Md., died April 17, 2022.
1950
Chester Guinn Des Moines, Iowa, died Aug. 2, 2025.
1952
William Lyle Sioux City, Iowa, died March 18, 2025.
1953
Lawrence Tagg Tucson, Ariz., died Jan. 17, 2025.
Norma (Cadwell) Tokarczyk Springfield, Mo., died July 2, 2025.
John Wolff Ann Arbor, Mich., died March 27, 2025.
John Jerry Koch Olympia, Wash., died Jan. 30, 2025.
1954
William Ide University Place, Wash., died Feb. 14, 2025.
1956
Jane Tawney Bullhead City, Ariz., July 7, 2025.
1957
Douglas Delzell Sioux City, Iowa, died March 15, 2025.
1958
Donna (Haafke) Johnson Iowa City, Iowa, died March 29, 2025.
Richard Yates Cleveland, Ohio, died April 13, 2025.
1959
William Davis Lawton, Iowa, died June 7, 2025.
Louise (Wester) Harris Jefferson, Iowa, died Feb. 24, 2025.
Jeanette (Wester) Johnson Ankeny, Iowa, died Aug. 31, 2025.
Loren Lorenzen Traer, Iowa, died May 21, 2025.
James White Omaha, Neb., died May 3, 2025.
1960
Avalee (Metcalf) Horn New Port Beach, Calif., died June 15, 2025.
Ruth (Sumner) Palmer Waterford, Mich., died Dec. 21, 2023.
Warren Conner Omaha, Neb., died in April 2025.
1962
John Bellinger Indio, Calif., died June 17, 2025
James Stodden Lake View, Iowa, died July 18, 2025.
1964
Daniel Schuh Mankato, Minn., died June 25, 2025.
Phillip Wiggins Henderson, Nev., died Aug. 8, 2025.
1965
Jan (Hedges) Reever Fairfield, Iowa, died Feb. 24, 2025
Marlene (Berg) Camilli Owatonna, Minn., died July 22, 2025.
1966
Carl Tobben Ida Grove, Iowa, died March 2, 2025.
Mary (Larsen) Erkonen Sioux Falls, S.D., died July 25, 2025.
1967
Stephanie (Moe) Hokanson Sioux City, Iowa, died July 1, 2025.
Jane Hughes Rochester, Minn., died July 8, 2025.
Carole (West) Brudevold McMinnville, Ore., Aug. 3, 2025.
1968
Michael Keagle Sioux City, Iowa, died May 31, 2025.
1969
Russell Clifford Sioux City, Iowa, died May 27, 2025.
David Kline Mitchell, S.D., died Jan. 25, 2025.
Steven Warnstadt Sioux City, Iowa, died May 1, 2025.
James Hanke Cedar Rapids, Iowa died July 19, 2025.
1971
Lynette (Stover) Meyer El Paso, Texas, died Jan. 16, 2025.
Gregory Peterson Waite Park, Minn., died May 20, 2025.
Norman Olsen Coralville, Iowa, died July 16, 2025.
1972
Douglas Fink Huntley, Ill., died April 23, 2025.
Cynthia (Hansen) Lutz Wahoo, Neb., died May 22, 2025.
1974
Carla Cassidy Cresco, Iowa, died April 9, 2025.
Joseph Cunningham Fort Dodge, Iowa, died May 11, 2025.
1978
Timothy Shannon Hinton, Iowa, died April 5, 2025.
1983
Steven Haskins Sioux City, Iowa, died June 22, 2025.
1984
Douglas Cue Newton, Iowa, died May 18, 2025.
1985
Kay (Kenoyer) McCormick Sioux City, Iowa, died May 11, 2025.
1987
Sandra (Lee) Harris Minnetonka, Minn., died March 12, 2025.
John Penn Omaha, Neb., died June 13, 2025.
1993
Brian Krogh Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, died May 9, 2025.
Joan (Sandvick) Tozier Sioux City, Iowa, died July 6, 2025.
1994
Diane (Peirce) Limoges North Sioux City, S.D., died July 4, 2025.
1996
Samuel Welsch Lincoln, Neb., died July 17, 2025.
1998
Stacey Elliot Hinton, Iowa, died Aug. 17, 2025.
2000
Diane (Miller) Schwartz Story City, Iowa, died June 5, 2025.
2007
Pamela Porttorff Sioux City, Iowa, died May 7, 2025.
2014
Scott Smith Golden, Colo., died Dec. 7, 2024.
2016
Leann Smith Sioux City, Iowa, died Aug. 2, 2025.
Remembering Cherished Friends
Dirk Bak Sioux City, Iowa, died May 7, 2025.
Ronny Livermore South Sioux City, Nebr., died Sept. 6, 2024.
James Skalisky Sergeant Bluff, Iowa, died March 2, 2025.
Claris Hanson Sioux City, Iowa, died March 20, 2025.
Russell Wilson Windsor Heights, Iowa, died June 28, 2025.
Dr. Carol Phillips Ames, Iowa, died July 13, 2025.
Joan Waitt Palm Desert, Calif., died Oct. 18, 2024.
The Morningside BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Paul D. Debey '84
Ray Scott '91
Thomas Rosen ’70
Roberta (Robbie) Rohlena ’94
Cory Roberts, MD, MBA ’90
Cindy Barrett Brewer '82 Alumni Representative
Curtis White ’76
Brayton Hagge '17
Mark Gambiana '82
Chad Benson ’90
Richard Waller
Khalid Rasheed
Renee Beaulieu
Jodi E. Bacon '91
Bishop Kennetha Bigham-Tsai
Chris Bogenrief ‘94
Scott Kerkhoff ‘93
Carol Werner '69
Dr. Patrick McKinlay Faculty Representative
Rosa Diaz, MSW
Morningside’s Board of Directors is the decision-making authority for our institution, creating policies, expanding programs, and upholding the Morningside mission. The Board’s members include Morningside alumni, respected community and business leaders from across the region and the nation, a faculty representative, staff representative, and the current student body president.
Dr. Dan Cox
Deontez Williams '27
Student Representative
Karen Wiese '97
Staff Representative
Nolan Lubarski
Tim McCabe ‘88
Dr. Robert Burkhart ’70
Rev. Ron Carlson
James Palmer
Erica Thein ‘02
John Steele '79 Craig Struve '70
James Walker ’70
Cy Chesterman, Jr. ‘91
Meredith Davis Lang ‘02
Rev. Dr. Michel O. Lundula
Tarah Nolan ’09
Mia Sudo
OCTOBER
3-4, 2025
CAMPUS TOURS:
FRIDAY, OCT. 3: 12 P.M. - 3 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCT. 4: 9 A.M. - 12 P.M. (Buhler Rohlfs Lobby)
AVIATION TOURS:
FRIDAY, OCT. 3 AT 3 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCT. 4: 10:30 A.M. (Morningside Aviation)
SILVER, GOLD, AND DIAMOND REUNION DINNER:
CELEBRATING CLASSES OF 2000, 1975, AND 1965
FRIDAY, OCT. 3 AT 5:30 P.M. (Helen Levitt Art Gallery) RSVP Required.
PREMIERE PERFORMANCE AND CODA AWARDS:
FRIDAY, OCT. 3 AT 7 P.M. featuring Morningside Choir, Wind Ensemble, and M Avenue Jazz (Eppley Auditorium)
MINI-MUSTANG DANCE CLINIC:
SATURDAY, OCT. 4 AT 9 A.M. for K-5 students
FOOTBALL GAME: MUSTANGS VS. WALDORF
SATURDAY, OCT. 4 AT 1:30 P.M.
TASTE OF MORNINGSIDE:
SATURDAY, OCT. 4 AT 3 P.M. (Mason Family Tennis Complex)
ALUMNI MILESTONE TENT:
SATURDAY, OCT. 4 AT 4 P.M. (Mason Family Tennis Complex)
Celebrating the Classes of 2020, 2015, 2010, 2005, 2000, 1995, 1990, 1985, 1980, 1975, 1970, 1965, 1960, 1955, 1950, 1945, and beyond! Stop by for your free gift and a drink on us. RSVP Required.
THEATER PERFORMANCE:
STUPID F#@%ING BIRD SATURDAY AT 7 P.M. (Klinger Neal Theater)
For a full list of events and RSVP links visit morningside.edu/alumni
UPCOMING EVENTS
Homecoming Weekend
Oct. 3-4
Senior Visit Days
Friday, Oct. 3 (Homecoming)
Friday, Oct. 24
Friday, Nov. 14
Friday, Dec. 5 (CAM)
Friday, Jan. 23, 2026
Mustang Family Fest
Oct. 25-26
Christmas at Morningside
Thursday, Dec. 4
Friday, Dec. 5
3rd ANNUAL
OCTOBER
25-26, 2025
SUBMIT Class Notes
Send us your good news, job updates, or big life moments.
alumni@morningside.edu
712-274-5409
morningside.edu/alumni/connect
Morningside Class Notes 1501 Morningside Ave. Sioux City, IA 51106
Morningside University Operator - 712-274-5000 or 1-800-831-0806
Are you moving? Do you have an email address? Please let us know! Just send an email to alumni@morningside.edu or write to the Alumni Office, Morningside University, 1501 Morningside Ave., Sioux City, IA 51106.
The Morningsider is published twice a year under the auspices of the University Engagement office. It is distributed free of charge to alumni and friends of the university. ©2025 by Morningside University, Sioux City, Iowa. All rights reserved.
POSTMASTER
Send address changes to: The Morningsider Morningside University 1501 Morningside Ave. Sioux City, IA 51106
Morningside University does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, creed, sex (including pregnancy), religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator. phone: 712-274-5191 email: titleix@morningside.edu
The Morningside University experience cultivates a passion for lifelong learning and a dedication to ethical leadership and civic responsibility
