Annual spring concert canceled
The Student Activities Council canceled its annual springtime concert. This stems from the ongoing restrictions due to budget cuts brought about this summer in Missouri.
Gov. Mike Kehoe announced the spending plan for the Fiscal Year 2026 in June of last year. This budget included $2 billion in vetoed money that will be spent improving other aspects of the state.
Among those affected by the new funding restrictions is SAC, an agency that focuses on the extracurricular activities available to students. Maggie Wiedrich, SAC president, said the concert cancellation was not an easy decision, but it was necessary.
“It was canceled strictly due to budget cuts; our budget got cut for this fiscal year, and it made us unable to put forward a concert,” Wiedrich said.
Among the $2 billion vetoed, Northwest was denied $563,498. This loss in funding has forced many of the on-campus offices to implement changes to account for the denied resources.
The decision not to host a concert came about at the beginning of the academic year, after the office concluded it would have to sacrifice other key events in order to keep the concert running. Faith Thompson, the director of student involvement, said it made more sense to keep a multitude of events.
“This decision came about in late summer, early fall, when we were divvying up the budget between all of the Student Activity Council directors,” Thompson said.
“We decided we still want them (the other directors) to be able to put on all the amazing events that we already have, such as Grocery Bingo, Northwest Week and our other major events.”
With this thought process in mind, the
plans to not have a spring concert were finalized, and no other conversations were had regarding the topic.
In recent years, the concert has hosted performers like X Ambassadors, Russell Dickerson, AJR and Hannah Ellis. However, in recent years, the concert numbers have decreased.
In 2024, the Russell Dickerson concert sold 1,200 tickets, with only 100 of the tickets not being accounted for. However, in 2025, with a headliner who pulls 5 million more monthly listeners on Spotify, only 650 tickets to the X Ambassadors’ performance were sold.
However, the Office of Student Involvement remains consistent in its stance to potentially bring the concert back next year, if the proper money is reallocated. Thompson said next year’s concert is still up in the air as of now.
“Next year’s concert all had to do with next year’s budget that we are given, and that plan usually comes out in the summer,” Thompson said.
NW to change dining services, new contract to start May 15
Sodexo’s contract with the University will conclude at the end of this semester, leading to a swift change in its dining services provider, as discussed during the Northwest Board of Regents meeting March 12.
University President Lance Tatum said Northwest received a 90-day contract vacancy notice from Sodexo in December. He said in February, a request for proposal was issued to find a new vendor, and five potential candidates have since made a visit to campus.
“We met with Sodexo, and with the national leadership, and we had some pretty robust conversations about circumstances around that decision, about what the pathway will look like going forward,” Tatum said. “At the end of the day, the institution decided they would probably be better for us if we issued a new RFP and sought new dining services going forward.”
Sodexo’s contract with Northwest began in 2023. Tatum said Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Rose Viau, Vice President of Finance and Administration Stacy Carrick and Interim Vice President of Student Affairs Charles Fey have
all assisted in the search for a vendor.
Tatum said the University is in the process of conducting face-to-face interviews with providers who have submitted contract proposals. The new vending contract will start May 15.
During the meeting, Provost Rose Marie Ward proposed two new programs within the school of education, both centered around trauma studies. The first is a Master of Science in Education in Trauma Studies.
“It’s a need within the state; a big thing happening with children right now is that we see that — I mean, we all went through the pandemic — there’s a lot of trauma going on, and recent literature is saying this is a growing need, and it is resulting in higher than norm anxiety and depression rates in our populations,” Ward said.
Ward said Missouri has made it an initiative to have more trauma-informed schools. This master’s program is to be offered online and includes 30 credit hours. Another option for students is to complete a graduate certificate in trauma studies, which Ward also proposed at this meeting. This certificate includes 12 credit hours.
Last spring, the city of Maryville brought a new Amazon facility to aid with deliveries in Maryville. Many thought this facility would enhance deliveries, but for some, it has seemingly done the opposite.
As of the opening of the new factory, the drivers have been misinformed about the delivery system on campus. This has led to the disappearance of many packages, which Central Receiving is unable to do anything about. Maryville is served by a multitude of delivery services, including USPS, Fed-Ex, UPS and now Amazon. Mike Striplin, the University’s Central Receiving supervisor, said he thought the addition would create even more efficient package delivery; however, that is not how things have turned out, and he said he hopes there will be some changes in the future.
“We have really good UPS and Fed-Ex drivers — they’re excellent.” Striplin said. “The problem we are having with the Amazon drivers is with them leaving packages all over the place. If it gets dropped off here (Central Receiving), I’ll know where it’s at. In 22 years, I’ve lost one package.”
Maryville introduced the factory to improve delivery speeds and open up new job opportunities to the community. Prior to this operation, the Maryville area dealt with extended delays due to the other nearest factory being in Kansas City, Missouri.
The factory brought 20 new jobs to the area, and Amazon also allows drivers from across the country to pick up jobs in any town where a last-mile facility is. Striplin said the hiring process for drivers is possibly focused more on quantity rather than quality, and their delivery methods are unorthodox and he believes these are primary issues.
X Ambassadors lead vocalist Sam Harris sings while playing guitar at the Student Activities Council Spring Concert April 4, 2025. The Northwest Office of Student Involvement canceled its annual spring concert for 2026 due to statewide budget cuts.
University President Lance Tatum gives an update on Northwest’s dining services contract at the conclusion of the Board of Regents meeting March 12.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
ANNA BAILEY News Editor | @AmBailey16
RYAN KING
Missourian Reporter | @TheMissourian
RYAN KING
Missourian Reporter | @TheMissourian
Northwest welcomes Charles Fey as interim leadership
While Northwest works on hiring its next vice president of student affairs, an interim position holder has been brought on.
Charles Fey, a contractor for the Registry, has been welcomed to Northwest to take on the interim role. The Registry is a company that provides interim placements for universities across the country. He will serve in this role until the vice president of student affairs position is permanently filled. Fey has worked with the Registry since 2017. He said his contracts typically last for one year; however, this time around is much shorter.
“Well, this is a very short term contract…this is a three-and-a-half months, about, (contract),” Fey said. “I’m basically going to keep the ship running, make sure that student affairs operates as they have always operated, and try to get us ready for the fall. There are really great people working here in student affairs and across the campus…I’m very confident that they know what they’re doing and how to do it, and I’m just going to help them move it forward.”
Fey will not be in the candidate pool for the permanent position. He is only here to fulfill the responsibilities of the vice president of student affairs while the position is vacant, following the departure of Matt Baker, who now resides as the president of Emporia State University.
Leading the hiring process is Northwest Chief of Staff Jacob Wood and Director of Athletics Andy Peterson. As of now, Peterson said they have only just begun the process. He said the applications have opened, and they are collecting candidates.
“We’re working on putting together our advisory committee, which will be a cross-sectional group of folks across campus that have an interest in this position, not necessarily them, themselves…but either direct reports or people that work very closely with student affairs across campus that are going to come in and help us go through the candidates,” Peterson said. “That’s kind of where we’re at right now, is coming up with that team and continuing to take in applications.”
Peterson said the middle of the spring semester is not the best time to hire a full-time position within student affairs. He said this is because there are a lot of student activities taking place, and the process to organize next year’s housing is already happening. He said it would make better sense to hire someone closer to — or after — the end of the spring semester. He said the start date for the next vice president of student affairs could be May 1 or later.
“I think (in) my mind, I’m probably hoping to have somebody here, sitting in the chair, June one,” Peterson said. “If Plan A doesn’t occur, Plan B is probably a July first start date for that employee.”
Peterson said he is looking for someone who is willing to work closely with others throughout campus. He said at Northwest, the staff is small, and a lot of people work in multiple different areas, so finding someone collaborative is important.
He said while Baker was in the position, Baker would often provide an outside perspective and insight while making decisions. Peterson said having a partner like this is helpful.
“It’s easy to lock in on academics, because that’s what we’re here for, right?” Peterson said. “We’re here for kids to get degrees and to be prepared to go out into the world…and we focus a lot on the academics, as we should; but, man, you’re only in class for, what, nine hours a week, 12 hours a week, something like that? What are you doing with the rest of your week? A lot of that is where student affairs comes in.”
Students perform at drag show
While many students dreaded being dragged back to campus, many drag kings and queens decided to take a unique spin on the common phrase.
Prism hosted a drag show, Dragged Back to Campus, at the J.W. Jones Student Union March 11. The show featured four drag kings and queens with a variety of different personas, ranging from a clown to a southern disco performer. Conner Tudeen, vice president of Prism and event organizer, said more drag shows are coming in the future.
“I know that a lot of people have heard of us and are gonna be here, and so we gotta really sell it to keep these going, because I know we definitely want it to be annual,”
Tudeen said. “We all (Prism) kind of came up with a drag show, because I remember going to my first
drag show, and it was wonderful, so I was like, ‘Why don’t we bring this back to campus?’”
Prism is a student-run club on campus set on building a community of LGBTQ+ members and allies of the community, as well as the greater student body. Prism was created on campus in October 2024 and has held other events relating to the LGBTQ+ community, such as trivia and informational sessions. Dragged Back to Campus is the first-ever drag show hosted by the club.
All performers were Northwest students. Tyla Null is a drag king who portrayed a female version of the Big Bang Theory character Sheldon Cooper. Disco Belle is a southern queen, described as a lover of parties. The third performer was Skeeter the Clown, who is described as a lover of chaos. The final performer was Whiskey Midnight, portrayed by the
Prism President Ray Leath, who describes himself as a playful, party kind of guy. Leath said a drag performer’s character can reflect deeper emotions.
“It really depends on who they kind of embody, because for a lot of drag performers, they kind of look to see, what do they see in the opposite sex, and then you build your personality,” Leath said. “Some people do the opposite of themselves. Some just choose a character they like. It’s all just about creativity, and you kind of find your way with how you want to go about it.”
Tudeen said the show featured 15 songs split between the four performers, along with a lip-synch battle. The show utilized its audience by allowing them to vote on what songs the performers would lip-synch to and who the top three performers were.
Leath said he hopes the event
brings clarification to the community about what drag is.
“I hope it brings the tradition back of drag shows,” Leath said. “Especially, the United States, (it) is very polarized about drag shows right now, and that’s very frustrating as someone who is trans (transgender) and enjoys performing in drag, so I would love to kind of give some clarity to people, as well as introduce the idea of having drag as a normal thing, and maybe get people to learn something about drag as well.”
Northwest sophomore Ray Leath points out someone in the audience during the Dragged Back to Campus event March 11.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Northwest freshman Casey Townley grabs cash from a tipper in the audience during the Dragged Back to Campus event March 11.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Northwest freshman Michael Schuller, performing under their stage name “Tyla Null,” was crowned the drag king lip-synch battle winner during the
Dragged Back to Campus event March 11. The show consisted of four performers rotating through 15 songs.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
MICAH STOLLEY Contributing Writer | @TheMissourian
ANNA BAILEY News Editor | @AmBailey16
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Increasingly popular Missouri content creator visits campus
CLAYWELL Editor-in-Chief | @Hannah_9504
Missouri phenom and comedy content creator Missouri Adamn Killa, who requested to go by his stage name, has made his way to Maryville.
Missouri Adamn Killa gained popularity seemingly overnight from his parody songs and accompanying dance, while traveling throughout the state of Missouri. Missouri Adamn Killa has only been a character the influencer has played for the last two months.
“I’ve made content for a very, very long time,” Missouri Adamn Killa said. “I’ve done YouTube videos since (I was) a kid. I’ve taken this seriously since middle school…I’ve done a lot of characters, but it’s always been a passion of mine.”
He said there has been a lot of communication from fans, and he had to get a team to help manage the number of messages he receives. The creator said he tried to respond to the messages himself, but after a week, it became too much for him to handle alone.
His team reads his comments and direct messages, and he said it was a little overwhelming, but a cool experience.
“It’s really hard to get that type of support, and I’m very grateful for all the support I get,” Missouri Adamn Killa said.
One of those supporters is Northwest sophomore Rashelle Taylor, who first heard of Missouri Adamn Killa when he showed up on her Instagram reels. She said when she saw him post on his Instagram story, asking where the Northwest fans were, she knew it was the moment to ask him to come to campus.
“I think it’s just very nice, and for the times we’re in, very up-
lifting,” Taylor said. “Every time he’s going somewhere, the group he’s with is smiling, they’re happy to do the little dance with him.”
The content creator has three different characters he plays across social media: Missouri Adamn Killa, Lil String and LS. He said he wants to keep evolving these characters in the future.
His next goal is to sell out his show April 16 at recordBar with another creator, Blizzi Boi. He said his performances are a theatrical show.
He said if he has good opportunities in an area, he will make a whole day plan out of the trip and go to the surrounding areas as well. He said the time is the most challenging part of this content.
Missouri Adamn Killa did toy with the idea of effectively going to every city in Missouri, but he said he probably won’t be going to each micro-city.
He said the best part of this is the joy it brings.
“People get wound up in this everyday stuff, and they get really stressed out, and they don’t have too much to rally around,” he said. “That’s what I hope to be, is, when people see me, they’re like, ‘OK, you know what? Something cool is going on, and I can make something cool too.’”
He said he wants to give people a reason to care about the state they live in and have pride in it.
“Sometimes set changes, the outfit changes, like there’s a lot to it,” Missouri Adamn Killa said. “It’s like a whole story, and so when people go, I have other types of music for people to dance to and turn up to, like, from other artists, but when I get up there it’s a whole theatric; it’s a whole show.”
He said he hopes to make his Missouri Adamn Killa character into something bigger.
Traveling across a whole state takes planning. When deciding where to go next, he looks at the analytics of previous videos. He said he tries to plan his next stop for places where a lot of people are watching, but also where he hasn’t yet been.
“I hope, for one, they start caring more about their community and each other, and two, I hope that when they see me doing all the stuff that I’m doing, and how hard I be working, that if they do it too, they can get as far as they want in whatever respective thing that they’re doing,” he said.
The creator has over 17,000 followers on Instagram and almost 30,000 on TikTok.
He said he is glad to represent Missouri, create content to make others happy and see support from fans. He said this has been a passion of his after seeing other influencers who have done it successfully and made a living from what they love to do.
“I always tell people to stay off drugs and to not be afraid of the grind, and those are my two messages for everybody,” he said. “It’s that I love Missouri.”
Influencer Missouri Adamn Killa directs his management to help frame a TikTok March 11. He had to get a team to help him manage his inboxes.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Influencer Missouri Adamn Killa talks about his future content plans during an interview March 11. He has played as three different characters across social media, including Missouri Adamn Killa, Lil String and LS, which he wants to keep exploring as his accounts evolve.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Influencer Missouri Adamn Killa promotes his upcoming April 16 show while filming his staple TikTok at Northwest March 11.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
HANNAH
Passion for baking drives local business
ANNA BAILEY News Editor | @AmBailey16
Baking is her love language; so much so that she utilizes it to make a positive impact on the community above anything else.
Karen From was 10 years old when she knew she loved baking. Growing up in California, she used to make lunch and bake cakes for her father and his employees, as he ran his own custom cabinetry business. She never stopped baking for her family, and eventually her passion grew.
From opened her business, A Bit of Leaven Artisanal Bakery & School, Oct. 1, 2024. In her custom bakery haven, she focuses a lot of time making sourdough bread and croissants. She also bakes other products like biscotti and scones, and offers monthly classes where she teaches visitors how to make a variety of her products as well.
“Sourdough is a science and a skill,” From said. “When you do croissants, they’re the same way. Croissants are about a two-and-a-half day process. My sourdoughs are — once I get the leavens and the starter going — it’s another day-and-a-half to a day to make; so it’s a passion and a love. You gotta enjoy it.”
From has studied the art of sourdough bread making for 14 years. She attended professional sourdough bread training at the San Francisco Baking Institute twice, a private three-day lesson at the International School of Baking in Bend, Oregon, and a five-day intensive course in Louisville, Kentucky. She said she found it important to have perfected recipes and professional training prior to opening A Bit of Leaven.
From said 90% of the time, her baked goods turn out how she wants them to; however, when they do not, she gives them to her customers for free.
Kim Stiens, one of From’s customers, said From is focused on providing the highest quality baked goods.
“She’s very worried, making sure she always has the best products for her customers and
She’s a retired dietitian who knows her stuff, and she makes the true healthy sourdough bread, like the true fermented good for your gut bread.” AMIEHARRIS A BIT OF LEAVEN CUSTOMER
giving the best customer service and works with you, and…she’s just amazing,” Stiens said. Stiens has been coming back to A Bit of Leaven for about a year.
Author presents Native American history research
LEAH COX Asst. Sports Editor | @byleahcox
Author and researcher Lance Dorrel returned to his hometown of Maryville to speak at the Nodaway County Historical Society’s Second Saturday event, presenting a program titled “The History They Tell” March 14 at the NCHS Museum.
The event featured a talk about his research and latest book, titled, “The History They Tell: Oral History from Native American and First Nations People Regarding the Battle of the Little Bighorn.” Dorrel said he worked closely with Northern Cheyenne tribal member and author Donovan Taylor to preserve oral traditions passed down through generations of Native Americans.
“We wanted to bring out what the Native American people said as far as who was there, what they did that day and how they affected the outcome — that’s not been told in the historical record,” Dorrel said.
During his presentation, Dorrel said much of what Americans learn about the battle comes from military reports and accounts written after the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Dorrel said oral histories can provide valuable content that helps historians understand events from multiple viewpoints.
The Battle of the Little Bighorn took place June 25-26, 1876, in what is present-day Montana, between warriors from the Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes, according to the National Park Service. The tribes defeated the soldiers from the 7th U.S. Cavalry Regiment of the U.S. Army. The U.S. wanted the tribes off the land, but Lakota
leaders Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse resisted. Dorrel said one of the most common misunderstandings about the battle, involves Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer of the 7th U.S. Cavalry and his troops. Dorrel said many of history’s stories describe the battle as a brave but hopeless fight by Custer’s soldiers, without fully recognizing how many Native American fighters were involved or how organized their forces were.
We wanted to bring out what the Native American people said...that’s not been told in the historical record.”
She said what keeps her coming back is the friendly service and the quality of the bread. Stiens described From as friendly, outgoing and full of love for her community.
Another of From’s customers, Amie Harris, described A Bit of Leaven as a peaceful place where she can go to get away from the business of her life. She said she likes that From is knowledgeable of the health benefits that come from sourdough.
From grows many of her own ingredients or buys them based on how they were made.
“I try to use everything fresh that I can that’s…organic,” From said. “All my milled flours are organic and glyphosate-free. That’s that spray they put on to kill weeds, and it’s really toxic that they use it right here, and then I’m not dogging farmers, I know they have to use it, but if I can get something that doesn’t have it, yeah, and it’s not that much more expensive.”
Harris said she appreciates that the products are healthier than what is otherwise found in grocery stores.
“I love Karen,” Harris said. “She is fantastic. She makes phenomenal bread. She’s a retired dietitian who knows her stuff, and she makes the true healthy sourdough bread, like the true fermented good-for-your-gut bread. She uses quality ingredients, and that’s what made me start going to her.”
Prior to building her business, From was a Northwest professor and director of the dietetics program. She said she loved running the program for 14 years. However, she said she had always wanted to start a bakery.
“I love my students,” From said. “They called me their Northwest mom. I’m still good friends — some of them come to get their bread from me. They talk to me. I mean, your age group is my favorite age group;
they’re so fun and (have) so much energy and a love and a passion, and that kept me there for so long; and I love teaching, but I just knew it was time.” From fully designed her bakery space once she had enough money saved to purchase it. She said this process was easy because she knew exactly how she wanted it to flow.
Eventually, her daughter-inlaw and her daughter-in-law’s sister offered to paint the mural that sits on the large wall facing the front door. This mural depicts multiple different flowers, wheat stocks and the business name. From said she wanted to make sure she could fully purchase her bakery space so that she could give more back to the community as her business grows.
From donates all of her profits — minus the cost of ingredients — to BackPack Buddies, Meals on Wheels: America and the Nodaway County Senior Center. BackPack Buddies provides healthy meals to children who need extra support while away from school. She said her customers have given her positive feedback about this, and they enjoy knowing the profits are going to children at risk of food insecurity.
“I think giving back is always a good feeling for anyone, but I think it’s the community involvement that gives back, and I get to be a part of it, and God’s leading the way,” From said. “It’s just a joy thing, like it feels really good. I mean, anyone — if you give back to anyone, it feels good, doesn’t it?”
She said during the holiday season, customers often pay extra for their bread so more money can be donated.
From said baking feels peaceful. She said she enjoys the multiple aspects that come with balancing baking and owning her business.
“It just brings me a lot of peace and a lot of joy and content,” From said. “It’s fun. I like it. It’s also a challenge, so my brain is always working, and I have to keep track of everything.”
“The biggest misconception is that George Custer and his band of soldiers were heroically outnumbered and fought to the last man,” Dorrel said. “While they were outnumbered, the story often overlooks the Native Americans they encountered and the many people who were present but never recorded in written history.”
Maryville entrepreneur Karen From packages an order in the storefront of A Bit of Leaven Artisanal Bakery & School March 16. From is the owner of the shop, and she donates her profits to charities.
EMILIA RAMANAUSKAS PHOTOGRAPHER
CRIME LOG
for the week of March 19
Maryville Department of Public Safety
March 15
There was a summons issued to Narla Devraj, 25, for an expired driver’s license and failure to obey a red stoplight on the 100 block of West Second Street.
March 14
There was a summons issued to Pamela L. Kendle, 61, for disorderly conduct on the 900 block of East Third Street.
There was a summons issued to Ava P. Hauptman 20, for possession of a fake ID on the 100 block of East Fourth Street.
There was a summons issued to Larenz A. Olssen, 21, for failure to register a motor vehicle, displaying the plates of another and failure to maintain financial responsibility on the 100 block of East Fourth Street.
March 13
There was an accident between Wallis A. Gray, 85, and Dillon P. Schrock, 59, on the 100 block of East South Avenue.
There was a summons issued to Fayth M. Pitts, 20, for a barking dog on the 300 block of East Summit Drive.
There is an ongoing investigation for larceny on the 600 block of East First Street.
March 12
There was an accident between Patrick S. O’Connor, 24, and Mitchell P. Schmitz, 35, on US Highway 47 and US Highway 71. O’Connor was charged with careless and imprudent driving.
March 11
There is an ongoing investigation for a lost/stolen license plate on the 400 block of North Walnut Street.
March 10
There was an accident between Anna J. Mogg, 20, and Sherin B. Hodge, 33, on the 100 block of East Third Street. There was an accident between Janie A. Harbin, 74, and Aaron C. Mogler, 25, on North Depot Street and East First Street. Mogler was charged with careless and imprudent driving.
There is an ongoing investigation for harassment on the 200 block of Volunteer Avenue.
There was an accident between Samantha K. Satyavelu, 18, and Austin J. Carlson, 29, on the 1100 block of South Main Street. Carlson was charged with careless and imprudent driving.
March 9
There is an ongoing investigation for larceny on the 300 block of East Fourth Street.
March 8
There is an ongoing investigation for larceny on the 300 block of East Summit Drive.
“They go by a GPS system, which is very inconsistent, while we have a pinned location to where they should come to drop off packages,” Striplin said. “For the safety of our students, we want all drivers to come to us (Central Receiving); although it may seem like an inconvenience, it’s for the better of the campus.”
Striplin said he hasn’t had issues with the other couriers that provide their services in Maryville. He also said he hopes he sees a turnaround for the better for the Amazon factory.
The University has tried to limit these problems by putting up signs around campus that are meant to point the drivers in the correct direction of Central Receiving. Striplin said there could be a language barrier that is causing some of the issues as well.
“Their system is really cool,” Striplin said. “If you want to travel the country, you could literally go to any factory in any town and sign up for a delivery. This leads to us seeing new drivers every day, though, and lately, there’s been a lot of international drivers, so it’s hard for them to communicate with us, which has led to them leaving packages at the baseball field and things like that.”
Striplin said the disconnect between Amazon and Central Receiving is that Amazon’s process isn’t allowing Central Receiving to do its job fully.
Allocations to continue for clubs
EMILY KRONE
Missourian Reporter | @TheMissourian
After leaving last week’s meeting with less than $200 in its Organizational Finance budget, Student Senate was able to appropriate $1,500 to the Bearcat Disc Golf Association during its March 17 meeting.
Senate Treasurer Ava Sammons announced Senate was able to reallocate money between budgets, allowing the Organizational Finance budget to increase significantly.
“In order to best utilize the budget that we’re getting from the University, we moved some things around, and as of right now, Org. Finance currently has around $4,500 in their budget,” Sammons said.
Bearcat Disc Golf Association
Captain Jonathon Rinehart requested $1,500 for the club to go to the College Disc Golf National Championship in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
Rinehart presented two budgets — one more expensive and one cheaper — which varied depending on what method of transportation the club decides to use. The two budgets were created because the amount of
REGENTS
CONTINUED FROM A1
Regent Jason Klindt runs the Academic and Student Engagement committee. He said his committee recognized the need for these programs, and it is highly anticipated by students. Both programs were approved by the Board.
Tatum said in his report that Missouri is likely not to generate enough revenue to meet its expenditures. He said there will possibly be a $2 billion that will be cut from the state budget in the next two years. Due to these state cuts, Tatum said the higher education budget will likely decrease. This is something Northwest has recently navigated.
He said Missouri Rep. Dirk Deaton has proposed a funding model for higher education.
“What Representative Deaton has proposed is a model that is based on student full-time equivalencies, which is going to change the amounts that institutions could potentially see in their state allocations,” Tatum said.
With the outcome of this proposal,Tatum said there will be some universities that will benefit and others that will not. He said Northwest is one of the institutions that will come out on top.
“For us, this was a light that we have been hoping for, for a long period of time,” Tatum said. “I, at this point in time, anticipate it (the budget) will be different.”
With packages being left all around campus, there’s no way to stop just anyone from grabbing a random package they see outside of the tennis court. Striplin said although he doesn’t want to associate Bearcats with stealing, such is life.
“We had an instance last Tuesday (March 3), where a new driver on the job left a package outside Millikan (Hall),” Striplin said. “He left it on the west side of the door. I went to see if I could catch it quickly, and it was gone. I trust all my Bearcats — I do; I don’t think anyone would have that thieving mentality, but it’s always a possibility.”
These sorts of situations are the reason why Central Receiving was created: to eliminate the ability for students’ and faculty packages to be damaged or misplaced.
Striplin said the oversaturation of drivers could also be a big reason as to why there is so much confusion between Amazon and Northwest.
“It’s the weirdest thing, they send out four drivers for our campus, which should really only technically be one driver, but for some reason, they send out three different drivers for 525, one for 625 and one for 635 (University Drive), which is Hudson (Hall), Perrin (Hall) and Roberta (Hall),” Striplin said. “We don’t need three drivers when they’re all sitting next to each other.”
money appropriated to the club would adjust the trip.
He said the club started the semester with $4,061 and had fundraised over $2,475 this academic year, but with tournament expenses and a required rollover, it was low on funding.
“Why we need to ask for the extra funding is, sports clubs are asking to rollover $2,000, at a minimum, semester-to-semester,” Rinehart said.
Senate decided to approve the more expensive budget, appropriating a total of $1,500.
Multiple senators advocated for this budget to go through, including Senior Class Rep. Alora Bucey.
“I feel like it would be more inclined for us to make sure that they can get a plane ticket, make sure they can get proper rest, so they can succeed the best they can on a national level,” Bucey said.
President and Captain of Bearcat Disc Golf Association Jonathon Rinehart requests $1,500 from Senate for the College Disc Golf National Championship.
ALLY JEFFRIES PHOTOGRAPHER
BRACKETBRACKET
Duke (32-2)
Siena (23-11)
Ohio St. (21-12)
TCU (22-11)
St. John’s (28-6)
Northern Iowa (23-12)
Kansas (23-10)
Cal Baptist (25-8)
Louisville (23-10)
South Florida (25-8)
Michigan St. (25-7)
North Dakota St. (27-7)
UCLA (23-11)
UCF (21-11)
UConn (29-5)
Furman (22-12)
Florida (26-7)
(24-10)
(21-12)
(26-8)
McNeese (28-5)
Nebraska (26-6)
Troy (22-11)
North Carolina (24-8)
VCU (27-7)
Illinois (24-8)
Penn (18-11)
Saint Mary’s (27-5)
Texas A&M (21-11)
Houston (28-6)
Idaho (21-14)
Arizona (32-2)
Long Island (24-10)
Villanova (24-8)
Utah St. (28-6)
Wisconsin (24-10)
High Point (30-4)
Arkansas (26-8)
Hawaii (24-8)
(27-8)
Our leaders forgot about prioritizing America
As Operation Epic Fury rages on in the Middle East, I’m continuing to drive over potholes. The days of having an “American First” set of beliefs have fallen out of reach.
Being America First is as simple as it sounds: focusing on problems here at home. However, what I’ve begun to realize is that we take better care of other countries than we do ourselves.
Growing up in the Kansas City metro, I am no stranger to the problems every major American city deals with nationwide. Homelessness, poor roads and infrastructure, crime and a litany of other issues are constant talking points during election season — yet nothing ever changes.
Kansas City is ranked No. 20 on the list of most dangerous places to live in the United States. And it took the World Cup to come to Kansas City for the city to introduce resurfacing 400 miles of road this past year.
This February, Congress passed a bill giving $50 billion in foreign aid to a plethora of other nations. Simultaneously, every state across the country is reporting shortages in more than one teaching area. If the teaching crisis continues, there is no hope for our future generation to save the mess we have put ourselves in.
Something needs to change; we need politicians who are going to work for us and not for foreign countries. We need politicians who will stand up to foreign nations and focus on the country that gave them everything they have.
Change can only start with us, though. Midterms are right around the corner, and we have the ability to push candidates who share similar beliefs to us. It starts with change in our local areas, which can then lead to change on a national level.
Missouri is infected with Congress members who are take foreign money and use our state’s tax dollars to fund wars that have nothing to do with us. Over $242 million in Missouri taxpayer dollars have been sent to Israel to fund its military in this war that U.S. President Donald Trump promised to keep us out of.
Our inability to refuse regime changes in foreign nations has not only caused the death of hundreds, if not thousands, of Americans; it has taken the focus off the problems of our own regime.
The president of one of the most prosperous nations in the world is mentioned in the Epstein files over 5,000 times, and that’s just of the unredacted content. We’ll go out and “kidnap” the leader of Venezuela, all so we can plant oil rigs in El Tigre. Yet, our FBI director is blatantly committing perjury on the stand, and he gets to chug beer with our national men’s hockey team.
America has the most pointless justice system, and it seems we will never see anyone mentioned in the biggest scandal in political history be charged for any of their heinous crimes. This is exactly why America needs changes, because we worry so much about other nations’ issues, although our country is littered with some of the worst trash on Earth.
Supporting women goes far beyond social media posts
Every March, there are a surge of appreciation posts across social media in support of Women’s History Month. Our feeds fill with graphics celebrating women’s achievements with captions about empowerment. The Editorial Board believes this type of recognition matters, but real support for women goes far beyond an Instagram post. Supporting women requires action — the kind that happens in everyday decisions and community involvement. Among the most visible ways to support women is showing up for them. Attend women’s sporting events, performances and celebrations that highlight women’s accomplishments. Dance Company and other performing arts organizations on campus — many of which are women-dominated — dedicate hours practicing before they step foot on stage, often without the same recognition as their male counterparts. Filling the seats at these events sends a message that their work matters and is deserving of attention, way more than posting a quote to your LinkedIn feed. Community support also means backing initiatives that provide resources for women. Of the coun-
EMMA FOSTER Senior Marine Biology
ties in Missouri, 41.7% are considered maternity-care deserts, according to March of Dimes. The upcoming opening of Mosaic Medical CenterMaryville’s women’s health care clinic will expand access to health care services that primarily impact women.
Signing petitions that advocate for women’s rights, attending events that celebrate women’s achievements and participating in discussions about gender equity are small but meaningful ways to contribute year-round.
It is also important to support, respect and encourage women in leadership positions at the local and national levels. Diverse perspectives, like that of a woman’s, are important for community growth. As we continue to see women step into these roles — such as Northwest’s new provost Rose Marie Ward — it is important that those leaders receive the same trust and respect that is automatically given to men.
Women leaders face skepticism rooted in stereotypes. Women are often labeled “irrational,” while men are “passionate.” Although studies have shown little-to-no difference between men’s and women’s emotional fluctuations, these stereotypes are normalized.
ELAINA HOLTKAMP Sophomore Elementary Education
Language also plays a powerful role in supporting women. Phrases like “man up” and “grow a pair,” or insults such as “b---h” and “p---y,” normalize the idea that women are inferior.
Schools across the U.S. at every level use outdated terms rooted in sexism for athletics. Mascots for women’s teams often have the word “lady” in front of them — which not only implies that the regular form is male, but is outdated and implies that women need to be “gentle” or “pure.”
Schools in the MIAA use sexist terminology, with different names for women’s and men’s teams. The University of Central Missouri has its men’s mascot as a Mule while women are the Jennies. Women’s teams should be named similarly to the men’s teams. Supporting women means challenging these patterns rather than accepting them as normal.
Real support means listening. Paying attention to those perspectives — and being willing to advocate for change — is essential to progress.
As Women’s History Month continues, the question becomes less about what we post online and more about what we do offline.
JOHN LANGILL Sophomore Pre-Veterinary Biomedical Sciences
How do you support women during Women’s History Month? “I wouldn’t say that I necessarily do anything outside of my everyday life...I just try to live my life every day by respecting women and trying to enjoy the things that women have created.” YOUR VIEW:
“I definitely prioritize hanging out with my friends and checking in on them a little bit more to see how they’re doing...seeing if they need extra support.”
STROLLER:
“I like to check in on my mom and my sisters and all my friends, just to talk and catch up a little bit more than normal.”
Your Bearcat’s Top 5 makeout places
Get ready for a mind-blowing list of the top places to makeout with every- and anyone on campus. This is important to know.
1. In the middle of the sidewalk
There is nothing quite like trying to make it to class and running into a full-on makeout session right on your path. I wish people did it more. I, honestly, can’t think of something I would love to see more than two people swapping spit at 9 a.m.
2. Right in front of my car
When I am parked on campus, one of the first thoughts to pop into my head is, “Wow, I wish someone was making out in front of my car right now.” Luckily, this happens at least once a month. It is always so considerate not to wait the two minutes it takes to get into the building, but to instead stop outside of my car.
3. On the stairs
Annoying things can happen on the stairs; however, one in-
stance that is never annoying is when a couple decides that it is their next makeout spot. I love it when I am trying not to sound like I’m dying going up the stairs, and I get a little break to watch two strangers kiss.
4. In class Sometimes when I am in class, I get bored. Well, thank God, there are some couples in my class to liven up the room with a hefty makeout session. Why wait until you’re alone when
you can do it in front of all of us?
5. Everywhere and anywhere Honestly, only five places aren’t enough. I think we should all make out with our significant others — or other people — wherever we want on campus. It doesn’t bother anyone, and it definitely isn’t gross.
Stroller has been a tradition since 1918 and does not reflect the views of the Northwest Missourian.
The
RYAN KING Missourian Columnist
@TheMissourian
UPCOMING GAMES
NW SB
@ Rogers State
3 p.m. March 20
Claremore, Oklahoma
@ Rogers State
5 p.m. March 20
Claremore, Oklahoma
@ Northeastern State Noon March 21
Tahlequah. Oklahoma
@ Northeastern State
2 p.m. March 21 Tahlequah. Oklahoma
NW BB
@ Washburn March 20-22 Topeka, Kansas
NW TEN
@ McKendree
2:30 p.m. March 20
O’Fallon, Illinois
@ University of MissouriSt. Louis
11 a.m. March 21
St. Louis, Missouri
NW T&F
@ Spire Distance Carnival
7 p.m. March 20 Leavenworth, Kansas
NW GOLF
@ Firekeeper Open March 23-24 Mayetta, Kansas
MHS BB @ Mid-Buchanan
4:30 p.m. March 20
Mid-Buchanan High School
@ Smithville Noon March 21
Smithville High School @ Maysville
5 p.m. March 26
Maysville High School
@ Northeast Nodaway
4:30 p.m. March 27
Northeast Nodaway High School
MHS G SOC vs. Savannah
5 p.m. March 24
Hound Pound @ Mid-Buchanan
5 p.m. March 30
Mid-Buchanan High School @ Lafayette (St. Joseph)
5 p.m. March 31 Lafayette High School
MHS B TEN
vs. Bishop LeBlond
4 p.m. March 24
Mark Rosewell Tennis Center @ Savannah
4 p.m. March 25
Savannah High School vs. Lafayette (St. Joseph)
4 p.m. March 26
Mark Rosewell Tennis Center vs. Benton
9 a.m. March 27
Benton High School
MHS B GOLF
@ Savannah
4 p.m. March 30 Savannah, Missouri
MHS T&F
Indoor High School Kickoff
10:30 a.m. March 21
Hughes Fieldhouse Varsity Meet
4 p.m. March 25
Maryville High School
@ Smithville
4 p.m. March 27
Smithville High School
’Cats earn 28 All-American honors
The Northwest track and field team delivered a strong performance on the national stage at the 2026 NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships — earning nearly 30 All-Americans and multiple podium finishes March 1314 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Competing against the top athletes in Division II, the Bearcat men’s team placed eighth, while the women’s team took seventh. The teams combined for 28 U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association All-American honors, with 15 men and 13 women.
A highlight from the weekend came from sophomore Anjelena Carder, who earned first-team honors in the pentathlon — an event she had relatively limited experience with earlier in the season. Carder said competing on the national stage brought a different level of pressure compared to earlier meets.
“The nerves were a lot different than the previous meets, just because of the national setting and competing against the best in Division II,” Carder said. “There were lots of tears, and it was pretty stressful.”
Despite the nerves, Carder delivered one of her strongest performances of the season. She recorded personal-best marks in two of the pentathlon’s five events and matched another PR, helping solidify her place in the top of the division.
Carder’s performance was part of a larger effort by the women’s team. Before the meet, the ’Cats were ranked No. 12 in the USTFCCCA polls — a fivespot jump from their final finish.
“It was pretty exciting, especially because we weren’t expected to come in top 10,” Carder said. “Everyone kind of outperformed their expectations, and we all peaked at the right time.”
While the women’s squad saw success across multiple events, the Bearcats also made their presence known on the men’s side. Senior sprinter Dominic Sedlacek led the way with a runner-up finish in the men’s 60-meter dash.
Sedlacek said his mentality throughout the season and during the race was simple — to claim the title.
“I like to go into every race thinking that I’m the best and I’m going to win,” Sedlacek said. “If you go into a race thinking you’re not the best,
you’ve already lost.”
Sedlacek narrowly took second with a time of 6.62 seconds, just 0.04 seconds behind Pittsburg State University freshman Ilias Garcia, who ran 6.58 seconds.
Although he narrowly missed the top spot, Sedlacek said he was still proud of the team’s overall performance and the contributions made by athletes across all events.
“I told the coaches all year that if I could, I was going to try my best to get us a fourth-place
team trophy,” Sedlacek said. “We fell a little short, but we had a huge group of All-Americans — that’s a big accomplishment.”
The team was projected to finish No. 5 in the USTFCCCA polls, but ultimately fell short, finishing No. 8. Sedlacek said falling short is fuel for the outdoor season.
Assistant coach Cody Ingold said the national meet is always a challenging weekend, but it highlights the preparation the athletes put in throughout the season.
“It was a very stressful week-
BATTLE CONTINUED
end, but a fun one to be a part of,” Ingold said. “You want to perform on that weekend because all the work is already done.” Despite the program’s success, the Bearcats are already looking ahead to the outdoor season. Ingold said the team hopes to continue pushing for stronger finishes at the conference and national level. Northwest will be back in action at the Spire Distance Carnival 7 p.m. March 20 in Leavenworth, Kansas.
“She’s awesome — she comes to work every day, she’s a high motor kid, elite attitude, you know what you’re going to get every day,” Meyer said. “She’s a competitor. She’s tough. So lucky to coach her and have her in our program, and sky’s the limit for her. Obviously, she had a triple-double this year. She’s averaging almost a doubledouble in conference play. We’re just blessed to have her.”
Maas said she hopes her example leaves a mark beyond just the record books — she wants everyone, like her teammates, to remember she was there for them.
“I feel like I make a heavy investment in people, because I care about them, and I’m around them all the time,” Maas said. “I just want them to know that I really cared a lot about them — whether it was harsh sometimes, or whether we were doing something off the court — that I was always there for them.”
In the future, Maas wants all sports at Northwest to come together and support one another — both men’s and women’s teams.
At many of the University’s athletic games, you’ll see members of other sports supporting one another. Maas said she hopes this continues with more players from men’s sports, such as the football team, supporting teams like women’s basketball and volleyball.
“At Northwest, we have more women’s basketball fans going to volleyball games before our season starts, because I think it’s important to have everybody at Northwest represented evenly,” Maas said. “I think playing women’s basketball, we do have a pretty big platform compared to some of the other sports that aren’t as widely supported, if that kind of makes sense; especially the outdoor sports, because it’s kind of harder to get there.”
Once the Northwest Bearcats complete the competition against the McKendree Bearcats, Northwest will prepare for an 11 a.m. March 21 matchup against the University of Missouri-St. Louis Tritons (2-5) at the Dwight Davis Tennis Courts at Forest Park, in St. Louis, Missouri. The ’Cats will travel for four of the next five competitions. Following, a match against the Drury University Panthers (6-4) 11 a.m. March 29 will begin a streak of five consecutive home matches at the Mark Rosewell Tennis Center. After facing the Panthers, the ’Cats will enter a streak of six matches against MIAA opponents to end the regular season.
has ever coached, but they possess a mindset and work ethic that allows them to compete at a high level.
In his 42nd season, Rosewell has coached over 80 tennis teams between men’s and women’s combined. He said his 2026 rosters may not be the most gifted teams he
“I think our players are really hungry, and they’re wanting to get better,” Rosewell said. “This may not be the most talented teams that I’ve had, but these are teams that really want to play, want to do well and work extremely hard. You can do something with that, because if you got good work habits, you can get better, and both of these teams are getting better.”
Track and field sophomore Anjelena Carder stretches over the bar in her high jump event at the Bearcat Invite Feb. 6. Carder earned first-team honors in the pentathlon event at the 2026 NCAA Division II Indoor Track and Field Championships.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Women’s sports participation rises
OLIVIA WALLACE Sports Editor | @_oliviawallace
LEAH COX
Asst. Sports Editor | @byleahcox
With eight of Northwest’s 14 sports being played by women, female student-athletes are becoming an increasingly visible part of the University.
Recent performances by Bearcat athletes have drawn attention to the continued growth and success of women’s programs on campus. During the winter season, multiple athletes earned conference and national recognition.
Women’s basketball sophomore forward Sadie Maas earned the MIAA Women’s Basketball Defensive Player of the Year honor. Maas said the award reflected the team’s focus throughout the 2025-26 season — which ended with an 18-12 record.
“I was just honestly shocked,” Maas said. “I’ve been working really hard throughout the season, and our whole team — we’ve really put emphasis on defense, so the fact that I was able to represent our team in that way was just really special.”
At the national level, women’s track and field senior Melanie Roland placed second in the 400-meter dash at the NCAA Division II Track and Field Indoor Championships in Virginia Beach, Virginia, March 13-15. The team placed No. 7, with 13 athletes earning U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association
All-American honors.
These achievements come as participation in women’s sports continues to rise nationally at the collegiate level. In the last decade, volleyball and soccer have seen an increase in participation with 10% each, while softball has seen a 12% increase.
For many athletes at Northwest, the name on the front of the jersey means more than just a mascot — it’s a representation of what they can do for others. For Maas, she said inspiring younger athletes has been and will be an important focus throughout her basketball journey.
Nearly 8 million students compete in high school sports. Of those, only 530,000 compete collegiately, with 0.5% of softball players, 0.9% of women’s basketball players and 0.7% of women’s soccer players move on to play professionally, according to NCAA.
Northwest softball head coach Naomi Tellez said increased exposure of women’s sports at the national level has also helped grow interest among younger athletes.
“I think for us, our game is just continuing to grow,” Tellez said. “The Division I level does a really good job of putting it out there on ESPN and all the networks. It’s drawn a ton of attention, which is really fun to see.”
Outside of coaching the ’Cats, Tellez helps youth softball players throughout Maryville and the surrounding areas. She said the visibility of women’s sports inspires younger athletes who watch and try to replicate what they see.
“Especially working with younger athletes
Athletics director explains gender-based regulations
An amendment to Missouri’s Title IX is working its way through the Missouri General Assembly, proposing restrictions on student-athletes participating in athletics.
Missouri House Bill 1663 and Senate Bill 39 require studentathletes competing within the Missouri educational system — public, private or institutional — to only compete in gendered sports that correlate to their sex assigned at birth, according to Missouri Senate Bill 39. The House of Representatives voted 98-37-2 to pass this bill and sent it to the Senate Feb. 26.
Northwest’s Director of Athletics Andy Peterson said abiding by these laws and policies helps Northwest stay at the level it is.
“The state of Missouri has come out and said they’re not gonna allow males to transition to females and participate in female sports — and if you do allow that at your institution, they’re going to cut your funding,” Peterson said. “It’s something that hasn’t impacted us yet…part of it is where we are and the passions of certain folks, but you know, the other thing is it just kind of limits our ability to do anything with the state laws; and because as an institution, we can’t afford for the state to cut our funding.”
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination in academics and athletics that receive federal funding based on a student’s sex, according to Northwest’s Title IX and Equity unit. Northwest is a public university and receives state and federal funding, meaning it must comply or work to comply to continue receiving funding.
Northwest Assistant Vice President of Title IX and Equity Stephanie Krauth said the law plays out in two different ways in higher education.
“One (way) is individual or programmatic discrimination,” Krauth said. “That is, if an individual is deprived of an educational opportunity because of their sex. Especially with athletics, is that individual or programmatic discrimination — the ability to be able to participate to benefit from an educational opportunity. Then, the other part of Title nine is around the issues of sexual violence.”
Northwest student-athletes use Title IX almost every day, whether they realize it or not. Title IX is exhibited by giving opportunities for students to be on a roster, receive a scholarship for athletics and use practice facilities.
Peterson said collegiate athletics takes the same concept of prongs that academia uses to stay or become compliant with Title IX.
“There’s equal funding, equal opportunity and then there is
treatment,” Peterson said. “You don’t have to be compliant; you have to show signs of improvement in one of those three prongs to be compliant with Title nine, which, very few institutions in the country are actually compliant, but you have to be — you have to show progress in that, so the way that works is either through the opportunities you have…the enrollment of the genders at your institution, really should have your athletic opportunities mirrored.”
The NCAA announced Feb. 6 a new participation policy for transgender student-athletes, stating it doesn’t permit student-athletes assigned male at birth or student-athletes assigned female at birth undergoing hormone therapy to compete on a women’s team. Both groups of student-athletes are permitted to practice with the women’s teams and receive the benefits of being on the practice squad, according to the NCAA.
Peterson said that staying on top of all the new policies and news about transgender athletes has become part of the job.
“I don’t know that I have seen it yet at a public institution, because there are just so many other controls and factors that come into play on how that student would become eligible, you know, and how they would be,” Peterson said. “You’ve seen a lot of the fallout and kickback from the
— it’s seeing their passion for it, because they watch it on TV and they try to mimic wind-ups — that, to me, is what it’s all about,” Tellez said.
Northwest women’s tennis assistant coach Marielena Muench said she has seen growth throughout her sport during her playing career.
When she was younger, Muench said she did not have as many female teammates, and although there was teasing from the boys, it ultimately helped her grow into the player she is today.
“The older you get, there’s more girls trying to find each other and work out together,” Muench said. “Then, you get to college, everyone is playing at more or less the same level. That’s one of the best things — that you can compete together or against each other.”
For athletes like Muench, competing at the collegiate level represents years of dedication to their sport. As she and her teammates continue into their season, their experience reflects the opportunities women’s athletics provide not only at Northwest but around the globe.
Tellez said that while opportunities in women’s sports are evolving, she would like to see more equality in pay.
“I think a lot of female athletes work their tails off or just as hard,” Tellez said. “I also think motherhood sometimes comes into the equation, especially at the pro level, there might be some obstacles that they have to battle there. I think contracts maybe aren’t the same still, I think we’re getting there — I think it’s moving in the right direction.”
BILL REQUIREMENTS
instances that have happened across the country, which is what makes it so difficult for all parties involved — the student-athlete, the team, the coaching staff, the department and the institution.”
Northwest Dance Company is a student organization on campus that allows students with any level of experience to express themselves through dance. The NWDC President Abby
Rock-Glasgow said she feels as long as allowing transgender athletes doesn’t impact the greater good of society, it should be OK.
“My viewpoint is more, with dance it used to be more of a female-dominated sport organization,” Rock-Glasgow said. “Having male and also (transgender people) or anything like that, I think it’s beneficial because we have more representation in that aspect.”
FLETCHER PROCTOR MISSOURIAN PHOTOGRAPHER
GRAPHIC BY ANNA CASE DESIGNER
SOURCE: MISSOURI SENATE
HANNAH TATE
Missourian Reporter | @NWMSports
Northwest softball head coach Naomi Tellez speaks with her team to open practice Feb. 3. Tellez said increased exposure of women’s sports at the national level has also helped grow interest and participation among younger athletes, whom she notices mimic professional athletes.
WOMEN IN SPORTS HIGHLIGHT
Maryville girls golf senior Alayna Pargas watches the ball travel through the rain, holding her
backswing, during the matchup against Savannah High School Sept. 23, 2025.
MITCHELL HARVEY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Maryville girls wrestling freshman Melora Wilson claps after pinning her opponent at the Quad State Classic Jan. 31.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Bearcat soccer sophomore forward Norah Oyler fights a defender in the loss to Washburn University Oct. 31, 2025.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Maryville senior Abigail Bowe bumps back a return in the victory over Excelsior Springs High School Oct. 16, 2025.
MITCHELL HARVEY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Northwest women’s basketball redshirt freshman forward Avery Yosten signs a child’s shirt after the Bearcats’
66-55 win against Rogers State University Feb. 7. The game’s theme was “Pink Out.”
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Sadie Maas shares basketball’s impact
This Women’s History Month, Northwest women’s basketball sophomore forward and MIAA Defensive Player of the Year Sadie Maas is representing the growing impact of women’s athletics.
Maas has become a defensive powerhouse, an on-court leader and an inspiration for many young athletes. Her journey started at age 5 with the YMCA in Waukee, Iowa. Along the way, she said she learned that basketball was more than a sport — it was a safe place and a platform for growth.
“It’s an honor to represent as a very strong, empowered athlete,” Maas said. “You’re going to have bad days, but there’s an overall picture, and sticking with it, even when things get tough, is what matters. Seeing players like (WNBA Indiana Fever guard) Caitlin Clark succeed is inspiring, and I hope kids can look at me and feel the same way.”
Maas’ rise comes as women’s sports at Northwest and across the NCAA have seen a 14% growth in participation over the last decade.
Her influence is visible in the community. After games, girls often wait outside the locker room to take pictures and get autographs with Maas and the team, regardless of the score. Maas said she hopes her visibility helps these girls see what’s possible and inspires them to pursue their passions with confidence.
O
ff the court, Maas said family has made a critical impact. She said her parents and two sisters have provided ongoing support and guidance throughout her career.
“I have two older sisters, and I grew up with them coming to my games a lot and just being overall super sup-
Northwest tennis prepares for battle of the Bearcats
After three consecutive wins, the Northwest men’s tennis team (4-4, 0-0 MIAA) will have an opportunity to extend its win streak against the McKendree University Bearcats (6-8) 2 p.m. March 20 at O’Fallon Township High School in O’Fallon, Illinois.
The ’Cats’ most recent competition marked the men’s team’s first-ever match at the Mark Rosewell Tennis Center. Northwest captured the 5-2 victory over the Southwest Baptist University Bearcats (3-7) and secured men’s and women’s tennis head coach Mark Rosewell his 1,300th career victory.
Freshman Konstantin Feiel, hailing from Bruck an der Mur, Austria, is making an impact in his first season at Northwest, starting the season 6-1 in singles matches. Feiel said the team was determined to help the winningest coach in University history reach his milestone.
“I mean, we prepared a little gift for him before the match, so we really wanted to get
this win,” Feiel said. “Also, since we got the doubles point from the start on, we felt like the momentum was with us. I was playing the last match, I really wanted to get the 5-2 win and not a 4-3 win.”
After beginning the season 1-4, Northwest has gone 14-4 in singles matches, which helped secure three straight 5-2 victories to pull themselves back to .500. The most recent match against Southwest Baptist accounted for the first doubles point the ’Cats have scored all season.
Rosewell said building the chemistry between Bearcats in the doubles matches has become one of the team’s focuses as the season has progressed.
“I think our teams are getting better,” Rosewell said. “We’re getting the doubles straightened out right now, and going with set lineups, where we’ve been going back and forth, so we’re getting a little more continuity, which is really important.”
portive of me,” Maas said. “My parents took me to a tournament and then to a track meet and then back to basketball — they always have just been there and have wanted the best for me — instilling all those good qualities like working hard and following through with what we’re doing.”
Alongside the familial support, Maas said she has recently dove headfirst into her relationship with God. While she grew up going to church for religious holidays, she said she had not taken her faith to the next level until September 2025.
Maas said redshirt freshman guard Kenzie Melcher and student assistant Billee Sidden have been important in her religious journey, whether it’s team Bible studies or talking about scripture.
“I’ve been in my Bible a ton, and just being able to have that relationship with somebody that’s not from this earth and who has an unending grace provides just peace that is beyond understanding, has been something I’ve been really thankful for — basketball-wise and just life in general,” Maas said.
While she was growing in her faith, she was also progressing on the court. Maas finished the 2025-26 season with 73 blocks — the second highest number of blocks in program history — ranking No. 7 in the nation and No. 2 in the MIAA. She also recorded the program’s second-ever triple-double with 17 points, 18 rebounds and 11 blocks during the ’Cats’ win over the Missouri Southern University Lions (18-7, 12-4 MIAA) Feb. 12. Her dedication and effort have not gone unnoticed by her coaches. Head coach Austin Meyer said Maas’ intangibles — her work ethic, attitude and competitiveness — made her an easy recruiting decision.
Baseball continues 6-game win streak, gears up for Washburn
The Northwest Bearcats baseball team (17-6, 7-2 MIAA) has its eyes set on a conference rival, Washburn University (815, 5-6 MIAA), with a threegame series March 20-22 in Topeka, Kansas. Washburn comes into the series leading the all-time matchup 46-40; the ’Cats, however, have won the past four matchups. The Ichabods were swept in their recent three-game series against the Missouri Southern University Lions (12-10, 7-5 MIAA) March 13-14.
The Bearcats beat the Lions March 7-9. On the other side of the mound, Washburn is on a five-game losing streak. Head coach Tony Jandron said despite this, his team treats all of its opponents the same.
“We don’t spend much time discussing the record of opposing teams,” Jandron said. “In a
league like ours, there is no one that should be overlooked. If we don’t play quality baseball, we can get beat by anyone. I think our group understands we can also beat anyone, too.”
Northwest is on a six-game winning streak and has scored at least six runs in four of those games. Senior infielder Jeremiah has hit three home runs and collected eight RBIs during these games. Jandron said the offensive success is from the team’s next-up mentality.
“We just try to make it tough on the opposing pitcher,” Jandron said. “If we continue to do that, eventually we feel like we will break through. Quality atbats are important to get runners on base and give us an opportunity to drive in runners.”
Sophomore pitcher Logan Brasel leads the ’Cats with 27.2 innings pitched with a 4.88 ERA Northwest, however, has allowed an average of about two runs per game during its win
streak. Jandron said the team doesn’t get rattled when facing good hitters.
“We have faced off against some talented hitters so far this season,” Jandron said.
“We will have no different approach in how we attack those types of guys.”
Jandron credited the team’s ability to come together so quickly. Jandron said the team going through adversity is what sets it apart.
“I think our team camaraderie and togetherness is what makes us different,” Jandron said. “Even though we have seen a lot of turnover in our program the past year, our group is truly a family committed to playing for one another.”
The Bearcats will play Game 1 against the Ichabods 4 p.m. March 20 at Steve Anson Stadium’s Falley Field in Topeka, Kansas. Games 2 and 3 first pitches will both be 1 p.m. March 21 and 22.
Northwest women’s basketball sophomore Sadie Maas drives to the basket for a layup during the 67-58 loss to Missouri Southern State University March 6.
MITCHELL HARVEY CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
LEAH COX Asst. Sports Editor | @byleahcox
Northwest tennis sophomore Pavlo Vyostin chest bumps freshman Konstantin Feiel after a 6-3 victory over Southwest Baptist University March 13.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
Northwest baseball head coach Tony Jandron confers with players during the 6-2 win against William Jewell University March 3.
NATHAN NODA PHOTO EDITOR
CLAYTON CULP Missourian Reporter | @claytoonie811
KEATON SMITH Sports Reporter | @keatonsmedia