Park University Magazine, Fall 2012

Fall 2012

Vol. 4, No. 2

MAGAZINE

Introducing Park’s Promise Park University’s 2012-2017 Strategic Plan (Page 2) Photo by Arpan Pradhan

Park University Magazine Fall 2012 Vol. 4 No. 2 Michael H. Droge, Ph.D. President (816) 584-6202 president@park.edu Laurie McCormack Vice President for University Advancement (816) 584-6210 laurie.mccormack@park.edu Rita Weighill, ‘90 Vice President for University Communications and Marketing (816) 584-6212 rita.weighill@park.edu Brad Biles Associate Director for University Communications (816) 584-6888 brad.biles@park.edu Julie McCollum Director of Alumni Relations (816) 584-6206 julie.mccollum@park.edu

Let us hear from you Contact the Office of University Communications and Marketing with your comments about the Park University Magazine.

(816) 584-6212 communication@park.edu Office of University Communications and Marketing 8700 NW River Park Drive, Box 65 Parkville, MO 64152

Photo by Arpan Pradhan

Contents 2

6

Features 2 Introducing Park’s Promise

16 32

6

Bottom line: student success

8

Global positioning

11

Worldwide classroom

14

Presenting Park

16

Optimal support

18

Virtual innovation

20 Standing stronger 22 University News 25 Leading the way 26 In academia 28 Alumniad 30 Alumni & Friends 31 Traveling the world with Park 32

Alumni Weekend

34

Alumni Awards

36 Lifelong connections Park University Magazine is published by the Office of University Advancement and the Office of University Communications and Marketing for Park alumni and friends. Send address corrections to the Office of University Advancement, Park University, 8700 N.W. River Park Drive, Box 65, Parkville, MO 64152, call (816) 584-6200 or e-mail advancement@park.edu. Visit www.park.edu for more information.

The mission of Park University is to provide access to a quality higher education experience that prepares a diverse community of learners to think critically, communicate effectively, demonstrate a global perspective, and engage in lifelong learning and service to others.

Core values that guide our actions • Accountability • Civility and Respect • Excellence • Global Citizenship • Inclusivity • Integrity

40 Class Notes 43 Park Mourns 44 Alumni News

Park’s Promise:

Serving those who serve their community and country with personalized, globally-relevant education for life.

Go green with Park Park University Magazine is available online. To opt out of receiving a printed version of the magazine, please e-mail the Office of Alumni Relations at alumnioffice@park.edu. If you receive more than one copy in the mail, please let us know. Thank you for supporting Park’s efforts to be more eco-friendly.

Park University Magazine is created by: Kathy Winklhofer, Wink Creative Communications, winkcreative@mac.com Vanessa Bonavia, V Communications, vmbonavia@gmail.com

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Photo by Dan Videtich

Introducing

Park University’s 2012-2017 Strategic Plan Simply the idea of “strategic planning” can cause eyes to roll with visions of lofty ideas and good intentions organized in a thick binder, only to collect dust on a forgotten shelf.

Introducing something radically different: Park’s Promise.

Park’s Promise is the result of a year-long, intensive and highly collaborative process to develop a five-year strategic plan for Park University. “Park’s Promise is our commitment to the future,” said Park University President Michael H. Droge, Ph.D. But you won’t find Park’s Promise on any shelf. “Park’s Promise is what everyone will work and live by at Park,” Droge said. Park’s Promise outlines specific goals, timelines and measurable results. “This is not a lofty plan,” Droge said. “It details what we promise to do and by when.”

The rigorous planning began last fall. It wasn’t a closed door, exclusive endeavor. Rather, it was a collaborative effort led by Park’s Strategic Planning Commission, a diverse group comprised of faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees and community leaders that was cochaired by Rita Weighill, vice president for university communications and marketing, and Stephen Bell, Ph.D., J.D., associate professor of economics.

Park’s Promise is the result of a rigorous and sophisticated process driven by data analytics, surveys, focus groups and a proven method called “Managing For Results,” developed by consultants Marv and Marty Weidner of Weidner Inc., the firm selected

by Park to lead the strategic planning effort. The Weidners are nationally renowned for their expertise in large-scale strategic planning, particularly for city governments. “The complexity of Park University and its 40 campus centers is like a city within a city,” Droge said. “Their expertise was a perfect fit.”

Park’s Promise

Serving those who serve their community and country with personalized, globally-relevant education for life.

Strategic Priorities

Accomplishing Park’s Promise requires that the University excel in meeting five strategic priorities: 1. Ensure student success 2. Strengthen the Park brand 3. Ensure customer service and organizational effectiveness 4. Optimize the use of technology 5. Strengthen Park’s fiscal position

Park’s Promise honors the University’s tradition of serving those who serve. The plan was developed around a fundamental promise: Serving those who serve their community and country with personalized, globally-relevant education for life.

Front row from left: David Monchusie, Rita Weighill, Stephen Bell, Kay Barnes, Laure Christensen; Second row: Jerry Jorgensen, Dean Vakas, Michael Droge, Laurie McCormack, Kimberly Kasperbauer, Laurie DiPadova-Stocks; Third row: Kenneth Christopher, Deanna Armstrong, Rebecca Peck, Diana Boyd McElroy, Greg Plumb; Fourth row: Roger Hershey, Nancy Eastman, Chad Ackerman, Eric Blair and Thimios Zaharopoulos. Not pictured: Jim Allen, Randy Bailey, Dan Donaldson, Courtney Goddard, Kayla Harrity, Ed Hight, Thomas Holcom, Chuck Kater, Jolene Lampton, Alan Liebrecht, John Miller, Dennis Okerstrom, Juan Ortiz, Patrizia Pfefferkorn, Carol Sanders, Lisa Sneed, Richard Thode, David Warm and Anna Whitehead.

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Park University President Dr. Michael Droge is surrounded by Park cheerleaders at a recent basketball game in Breckon Sports Center.

Cheerleaders with Dr. Droge are, front row, from left: Kristie-Lynn McGathy, Brittanie Propes, JaNea Whitney, Dani Li; back row, from left: Kyle Davis, Bek Yakubov and Nuno Primo.

to an impressive new level in executing a strategic plan.

From Park’s beginnings training missionaries who traveled the world to serve the greater good, Park continues to be a leader in serving those who serve. From its growing programs in public affairs, health care, education and business to its leadership in educating the military, Park understands the culture of service. “Park will continue to lead the way in serving those who serve their community and their country,” Droge said.

Approved by Park University’s Board of Trustees in May, Park’s Promise requires that the University excel in meeting five strategic priorities: 1. Ensure student success 2. Strengthen the Park brand 3. Ensure customer service and organizational effectiveness 4. Optimize the use of technology 5. Strengthen Park’s fiscal position

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Droge, who came to Park in 2002 and was named president in June 2009, said the plan honors Park’s proud past while building on its strengths. “Park’s Promise continues our priorities of academic quality, access and affordability,” he said. “It also prepares students and Park for a rapidly changing, globally connected future.”

Strategic planning is certainly a time for big thinking and introspection. Yet Park’s Promise is not the result of unproductive brainstorming. “We didn’t ponder pie-inthe-sky ideas. Instead, the stringent process asked us to seriously examine what we want to accomplish, why we want to accomplish it and how we will accomplish it,” Weighill said. “Ultimately, every goal in Park’s Promise is tied to a specific measurement and a timeline.”

Yet how is it possible to monitor and track the enormity of activity and information involved in such an intensive plan? Enter the dynamic pairing of data analytics and technology that will take Park’s Promise

Park will carefully manage all progress on Park’s Promise through MFR Live, a dedicated web-based software designed to capture the efforts of individual operating plans and track the University’s collective progress. Dashboard reports will be accessible with the click of a mouse to provide detailed, up-to-the-minute progress on key performance measures outlined in Park’s Promise. “Every day we will monitor how we’re doing,” Droge said. “This sophisticated software will enable us to up our game across the board at Park.”

Aptly named by Droge, Park’s Promise is more than a plan. It’s a promise that reflects his firm belief that when you make a promise, you better keep it. “Park is poised for a tremendous future and Park’s Promise is our map to get us there,” Droge said. “And we’re going to make good on our promise.”

“Park’s Promise is our commitment to the future...Park is poised for a tremendous future and Park’s Promise is our map to get us there.”

— Michael H. Droge, Ph.D., Park University President

Park University Rankings 2011-2012 Park’s Promise builds on the reputation Park University has earned for affordability, access and academic quality, and its tradition of serving those who serve. Here is just a sampling of Park’s recent honors: Colleges of Distinction

Park was selected as a “College of Distinction,” a publication that lists colleges/universities that excel in engaging students, has great teaching, a vibrant community and successful outcomes.

The New York Times

Park University was ranked No. 9 among private colleges/ universities nationally for their lowest net price in a rankings story that appeared in the April 15 issue of The New York Times.

The rankings were provided by the Department of Education, based on average net prices in 2009, the latest year in the Department of Education’s database.

U.S. News & World Report

Park University was ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 10 most affordable private universities/colleges in the nation and ranked No. 1 in the Midwest.

The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education

The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education magazine ranked Park University among the top 100 colleges and universities in the United States for the number of bachelor’s degrees awarded to Hispanic students. In addition, Park was ranked No. 2 among schools within the West North Central states of the Midwest region and was the only institution based in Missouri or Kansas in the top 100.

U.S. Department of Education

Park ranked as having the second-lowest net price of any private, not-for-profit college/university in the U.S. and its territories that is not a Bible college or has a religious affiliation. Overall, Park was the only private, nonprofit four-year school based in Missouri or Kansas ranked in the top 125 at No. 100.

GetEducated.com

Seven Park University online degree programs were ranked as “best buys” by the national editorial review team at GetEducated. com, a consumer group that reviews and ranks online university degree programs for cost, quality and credibility.

Military Advanced Education / G.I. Jobs magazines

For the fourth consecutive year, Park University was selected as one of America’s “Top Military-Friendly Colleges and Universities” by Military Advanced Education magazine. G.I. Jobs magazine also honored Park for the fourth consecutive year on its list of “Military Friendly Schools.”

Diverse Issues in Higher Education

Park was ranked among the top 100 schools for bachelor’s degrees awarded to minorities among all academic disciplines.

Park ranked No. 2 among schools within the West North Central states of the Midwest region and is the only institution based in Missouri or Kansas in the top 100.

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Bottom line: student success Park’s Promise outlines its first and foremost priority: ensure student success Jerry Jorgensen, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president for academic affairs (center), takes a seat inside a Parkville Campus classroom surrounded by his top priority: Park students. With Jorgensen are (starting lower left around clockwise): Katelyn Kirkland, Kristie-Lynn McGathy, Dana Ford, Kelsey Zieber, Jamie Welch, Drew Parker, Erik Heitman and Marie Jean-Baptiste.

“If students aren’t successful, we’re not successful. That’s the bottom line,” said Jerry D. Jorgensen, Ph.D., Park University’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “Ensuring student success is our most fundamental responsibility as a university.”

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with the highest level of academic quality and preparing them for success in high-demand careers in an increasingly global economy.

Success begins long before a student arrives for class, Jorgensen said.

As part of Park’s Promise, Jorgensen is developing a “Park Student Experience” plan, which will be the University’s comprehensive road map to student success. “We’re identifying where we have gaps and where we need to enhance services to give Park students as much Photo by Kenny Johnson

support as possible, giving them every opportunity to succeed.”

High-Demand Careers

Priority number one in Park’s Promise is to prepare students with the most robust, in-demand, highest quality accredited programs. Park University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Accreditation is a rigorous review process that validates that a school or program is offering the highest standards of quality.

Outlined in Park’s Promise is the plan to attain national accreditation for Park’s School of Business from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and also for Park’s School for Education from the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, by 2015. “These growing programs have been operating at the highest standards, so we expect it to be a smooth process,” Jorgensen said.

Through intensive research and evaluation, Park’s Promise also includes a plan to seek accreditation for Park’s Master of Public Affairs and Master of Healthcare Leadership programs. In addition, Park will introduce a new Master of Social Work degree program with national accreditation.

“Through an intensive vetting process that included interviews with employers and job growth data, Park has determined that accrediting these programs will give students a more competitive career advantage,” Jorgensen said. Park’s Promise includes objective measures, including student progress in their major and employment rates upon completion, to document that Park is fulfilling its promise to students.

Under this first strategic priority, Park will launch two new initiatives to support student success: • Park University Institute for Public and Military Service This new division will sponsor national initiatives in career development, peer support and mentoring for military service members, veterans and those engaged in all forms of public service.

• Park University Global Institute This new institute will oversee international education programming at Park and expand innovative exchange partnerships with schools and organizations around the world to advance the ability of students, faculty and staff members to contribute to a globally interdependent world.

Measuring Success

Graduation is the ultimate measure of student success, right? Not necessarily, at least according to the national standard of measurement in higher education. “One of the challenges we are addressing with Park’s Promise is graduation rates,” Jorgensen said. The national standard for a student to complete an undergraduate degree is six years, according to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, which collects and analyzes U.S. enrollment trends in postsecondary education.

Currently, all colleges and universities are measured by this standard, Jorgensen said.

Essentially, the IPEDS metric doesn’t include the many students who don’t complete their undergraduate degree within six years in a university’s total number of graduates. “Yet Park understands that today’s students often take longer to graduate for valid reasons, such as military leave, change of major or family

and job obligations. That’s why we strive to make our programs flexible to accommodate the changing needs of students, particularly adult learners,” Jorgensen said. “We’re working with the Higher Learning Commission to develop a more accurate metric to reflect Park’s successful students.”

So what exactly do students need to be successful? “There’s no one answer,” Jorgensen said. “It’s a holistic effort. That’s why Park offers diverse programs and support services because students have varied needs and we want to do everything we can to meet them. I don’t think people realize all Park does to ensure student success beyond the classroom.”

“It’s important to keep the focus on the student in everything we do,” said Clarinda Creighton, associate vice president for student affairs. Creighton oversees the Office of Student Life, which includes student policies and student clubs, athletics, and leadership and engagement programs.

“Park’s programs not only support students academically, but also provide opportunities to demonstrate success and leadership beyond the classroom, which is increasingly important to employers in a competitive job market,” Creighton said. “The value of a college degree today includes what a student brings to it.”

Regardless of the many new initiatives, Jorgensen said student success will continue to be driven by Park’s time-honored intangibles: welcoming, personalized instruction, a commitment to quality and a dedicated faculty. “These will never change,” he said.

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Global positioning Park’s Promise ensures a “globally-relevant education for life” with the launch of the Park University Global Institute Global. It’s a ubiquitous word receiving a lot of attention these days. Though a simple word, it represents a dramatic shift impacting every facet of the modern world, from business and finance to politics and government.

Underlying this seismic shift is the need for more comprehensive global learning in higher education. With Park’s Promise to

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provide students a “globally-relevant education for life,” the University is committed to broadening its international focus.

Global Model Global learning has been a demonstrated value at Park since its inception, welcoming international students since 1875.

Currently, 691 international students representing 103 countries

In this era of globalization, Zaharopoulos said universities can’t afford to overlook the American Council on Education’s urgent message to heed “the evolution of the global environment.” For today’s graduates, a quality education requires the knowledge, attitudes and behaviors needed to succeed in an increasingly interdependent world. “A quality education must include a global perspective. Otherwise, it’s not quality,” Zaharopoulos said. contribute invaluable multicultural perspectives to the classroom and campus experience. With a global online presence, national footprint and leadership in educating the military around the world, Park is poised to take the lead in global education.

Park has forged partnerships with universities throughout the world and offers student and faculty study abroad exchange programs in more than 30 countries. Collectively, Park faculty members have received seven prestigious Fulbright scholarship awards that have enabled professors to teach and touch the lives of people across the globe and bring that learning back home to Park students. And Park was the first university to form a student chapter of People to People International, an organization founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to promote international understanding and friendship.

“One of the most important elements of a liberal education is global learning, and Park is well on its way to being a model of global education among universities,” said Park University President Michael H. Droge, Ph.D. “In higher education today, I don’t know how you can plan for the future without having a global perspective at the core.”

In fact, it’s Park’s impressive commitment to global education that led to the appointment of Droge as one of 30 university presidents to participate in the American Council on Education’s Commission on Internationalization and Global Engagement. ACE is the nation’s most influential and respected association in higher education and is examining best practices at universities like Park that are leading the way in global education.

Global Institute To advance and formalize its leadership in global education, Park plans to launch the Park University Global Institute by spring 2013 as specified in Park’s Promise.

“The dedication of resources and leadership to form the new Park University Global Institute signals Park’s serious intent to be a leader in global education,” said Thimios Zaharopoulos, Ph.D., vice president of global and lifelong learning.

Global Literacy To formally integrate a global perspective into every aspect of a Park education, the Global Institute is spearheading Park’s Comprehensive Internationalization Plan. From business to science to the arts, Park graduates will pursue their majors with a global context integrated into the curriculum.

To earn a degree from Park, students are required to achieve basic learning outcomes or “literacies.” Four years ago, Park added global learning literacies to its general education coursework requirements.

Park’s Comprehensive Internationalization Plan will take this a step further to incorporate global learning outcomes within every degree program.

Global Connections Park’s growing international programs will coalesce under the umbrella of the Global Institute, including the Office of International Student Admissions and Services and the Office of Global Education and Study Abroad, while introducing new global learning initiatives and partnerships.

Park’s Global Institute will expand student and faculty exchange agreements with universities and organizations around the world.

Most recently, Zaharopoulos was instrumental in forging a new international partnership with Park’s School of Business and an Asian training company to create the new Park Executive Global Master of Business Administration Program that will bring a cohort of Chinese management-level students to study at Park for one year beginning in summer 2013.

With its past and present innovation in global learning, Park has set the bar high with a goal stated in Park’s Promise to receive the Sen. Paul Simon Award for Campus Internationalization from the Association of International Educators for excellence in global education by 2017. The prestigious award recognizes colleges and universities making significant progress toward comprehensive internationalization using innovative and creative approaches. “Park is poised to lead the world in global education,” Droge said, “and we’ve set our sights on being an internationally recognized leader.”

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Priority 1 Ensure Student Success

Inter American University of Puerto Rico President Manuel J. Fernós, Esq. and Chancellor Agnes Mojica (right) present Park University President Dr. Michael Droge with a framed commemorative stamp depicting IAUPR’s first campus building with a staircase resembling the one in front of Park’s Mackay Hall on the Parkville Campus. At left is IAUPR Board President Luis Plaza Mariota, Esq.

From Park to Puerto Rico Park University partners with dozens of universities around the world, including one founded by a Park alumnus 100 years ago.

Inter American University of Puerto Rico (Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico) was founded in 1912 by a Park alumnus, the late John Will Harris, Ph.D. Harris, a 1902 Park graduate, modeled his fledgling university on Park’s Fides et Labor (Faith and Labor) motto. Today, IAUPR has nine campuses and numerous learning centers that serve 44,000 students.

In March, Park University President Michael H. Droge, Ph.D., his wife Molly Droge, M.D., and Laurie McCormack, vice president for university advancement, were special guests at the centennial celebration of Inter American University of Puerto Rico at the founding campus in St. Germán.

The celebration included a ceremonial signing of a student/faculty exchange agreement by Droge and IAUPR President Manuel J. Fernós, Esq.

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Global Proficiency Program To give Park students the opportunity to formally complement their major with an international emphasis, Park University introduced the Global Proficiency Program last year.

“The Global Proficiency Program not only broadens their global perspective, but it gives Park graduates a competitive edge with a global learning distinction on their transcripts,” said Angela Peterson, director of global education and study abroad.

GPP students demonstrate the intercultural communication skills and attitudes necessary to participate effectively in the global environment. The program requires an application, orientation, a multicultural class and foreign language coursework, as well as participation in international activities such as Park’s World Student Union, Model United Nations, Study Abroad and other international programs. Students submit a portfolio that archives their experiences, along with a reflective essay. The GPP Certificate is awarded to students at the Honors Convocation in April.

Worldwide Classroom Brazil. Australia. Italy. Denmark. Peru.

The world is a giant classroom. When Park University students nervously ponder the option to study abroad, Angela Peterson offers two encouraging words: “Just go.”

Peterson, director of global education and study abroad at Park, is passionate about helping students realize the immeasurable benefits of studying abroad. Peterson said students are often reluctant to pursue study abroad programs because of the dreaded four-letter word: fear. “It’s scary to leave all that is comfortable and familiar,” she said. “We work to spark their confidence.

Students typically discover it’s not as scary or expensive as they imagined.”

Park offers more than 75 study abroad and service travel programs in more than 30 countries around the world. All Park students in good academic standing are eligible to study abroad, including international students, online students

and students at Park’s campus centers across the country. Park has a number of direct partnership agreements with foreign universities and is also a member of the College Consortium for International Studies, a group of universities that offer their academic programs to member universities around the world.

Park guides students every step of the way to plan an international learning experience of a lifetime. “We consult personally with each student to help him/her determine their interests, options, coursework, budget and travel logistics,” Peterson said.

About 40 Park students travel abroad each year, some for a semester or even a year, while others take advantage of Park’s shorter programs during the summer, fall and spring breaks. “From two weeks to a full year, we encourage all students to consider what’s possible for them,” Peterson said.

Since Peterson arrived at Park in 2005, she’s helped hundreds of Park students travel the world. With her guidance, dozens have received study abroad grants and scholarship, including two prestigious Fulbright student awards. “Half of the battle for students is not knowing what’s possible and what’s available to them,” Peterson said.

“I wish I’d known about the many study abroad grants and scholarship when I was an undergraduate.”

Nothing compares to the direct experience of living, studying and serving in another country and culture, Peterson said.

Students invariably return inspired. Yet more importantly, they discover what they are capable of achieving. “They return with a renewed sense of self-reliance and independence,” Peterson said. “Living in another culture teaches them about the world around them, but even more about themselves.”

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Fulbright Scholar Studies in Mexico with Children in Tow “With children, it was hard to imagine studying abroad,” said Esther Francis, ’11.

That was before the single mother of two shared her dreams with Angela Peterson, director of global education and study abroad. “She opened my mind to the possibilities and offered nothing but encouragement,” Francis said.

During her junior year, Francis spent a semester in 2010 studying abroad in Mexico with her two children, who were 4 and 7 years old at the time, after winning the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. Francis returned with one desire: to go back. Again, she didn’t see how it was possible. That’s when Peterson introduced her to the Fulbright Student Award program.

Francis, who graduated with two Bachelor of Arts degrees, one in business administration/ human resources and a second in business administration/international business, received a 2011-12 Fulbright Binational Business Grant. The grant included a full-time internship with a company in Mexico City and graduate level courses at the Mexico Autonomous Institute of Technology.

“The internship allowed me to gain invaluable international business experience,” said Francis, who also minored in economics and Spanish, and was a student in Park’s Degree with Honors program. The Fulbright program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government designed to increase mutual understanding between people of the U.S. and other countries.

Francis was the second Park student to receive a Fulbright grant. Tamera Jenkins, ’09, who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice/corrections, was awarded a 2010-11 Fulbright Student Award to pursue a master’s degree at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Esther Francis with Matayah on the beach in Mexico.

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness” — Mark Twain Fall 2012 - 12

Serving the World in Jamaica Bryon Patten, who is pursuing a degree in management/accounting at Park’s Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (Ohio) Campus Center, with school children in Petersfield, Jamaica.

In October 2011, Park University students took a service trip to Petersfield, Jamaica.

Co-sponsored by Park’s Office of Global Education and Study Abroad and the Office of Student Life, this annual alternative fall break abroad was coordinated in partnership

with Amizade Global Service Learning and Volunteer Programs. Participants stayed in homes with Jamaican families in Petersfield, a small village two hours from Montego Bay. Park students volunteered as tutors and participated in construction, maintenance

and repair activities while also enjoying the local beaches and visiting a sugar plantation.

The alternative 2013 spring break service trip is being planned for Navajo Nation in Tuba City, Ariz.

Argentina Adventure Dylan Taggart decided to study abroad in Argentina where he arrived at Park in February. The original plan for the senior was to complete a semester of coursework toward his Spanish degree and return within five months.

More than eight months later, Taggart is still there.

“It’s difficult to return,” Taggart said. “It’s been such a great learning experience. There’s so much more to see, do and learn.”

Rather than traveling with other students, Taggart made the leap alone. “It was just me, my bags and my books,” he said. Taggart found

the solo experience more valuable. “Study abroad students need to let go of the familiar and jump into the deep end to fully embrace a different culture.”

On his own accord, Taggart extended his stay beyond Park’s official study abroad program, with backpack and bus ticket in hand. After completing a semester at the University of Belgrano, Taggart decided to travel through Argentina and is currently sharing a home with roommates from Columbia, Venezuela, Puerto Rico and Argentina.

“We’re like a big global family,” he said.

Without this experience, Taggart said his college education would not be complete. “A college education is more than just getting a degree and a job. It’s understanding the world around us.” Most importantly, Taggart said he’s broadened his perspective. “It’s easy to form opinions and judge other countries we really don’t know much about. We need to get away from the notion that what we do here or there is the right way. There is no one right way.”

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Presenting Park Park’s Promise will amplify Park’s reputation for academic excellence with the strategic priority to “strengthen the Park brand.” serve their community and country with personalized, globallyrelevant education for life.” Yet strengthening the Park brand is not about dramatic change. It’s about amplifying Park’s success.

Communicate the brand

Branding is much more than a logo, slogan, brochure or website.

Yet these are important tools that must be carefully integrated to thoughtfully communicate a brand. With Park’s Promise, the University is developing a comprehensive branding/marketing campaign to heighten awareness of Park, particularly among prospective students.

Nike. Apple. Disney. Google. Brands influence our decisions and embody our values, ideals and aspirations. In a marketplace filled with a dizzying array of options, brands offer a mental shorthand for all that we think and feel about products, services and organizations — including educational institutions.

To remain competitive in a world where financial resources are sorely stretched, Park’s Promise asserts a strategic priority to “strengthen the Park brand” with plans to bolster the University’s reputation and name recognition as a private university of choice.

Academic excellence

Park’s brand is rooted in the quality education it delivers every day. “The top priority for the Park brand will always be academic excellence,” said Rita Weighill, vice president for university communications and marketing. Park has worked long and hard to earn its reputation as a nationally — and internationally — recognized nonprofit university committed to providing affordable access to higher education.

Park’s brand is more than a marketing identity. “At its core, the Park brand is about people. It’s our students, faculty, staff, alumni and all those who tirelessly support our mission,” said Weighill. “It’s their success that reflects the Park difference.”

Recently, Park introduced a new tagline to Park’s Promise to better reflect its mission in all of its communications: “Serving those who

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Weighill said marketing research has revealed current misconceptions about Park. “The public knows Park is here, but they don’t realize all that we offer,” she said. “Some think we’re only located in Parkville.

Others think we only serve the military. Many don’t realize that Park has 40 campus centers across the country, providing a face-toface educational experience as well as award-winning online degree programs.”

Park is a recognized leader on many fronts, from its flexible programs for nontraditional students to its online expertise, international focus and military outreach. “Park’s many layers of success are a good problem that, unfortunately, has a tendency to dilute our identity,” Weighill said. To address this challenge, Park’s new marketing communications efforts will incorporate a more segmented approach.

Park.edu

To reach its diverse constituents with relevant information, Park is redesigning its core communications tool. In partnership with a national interactive consulting firm, Park is developing a comprehensive redesign of the University’s website — www.park.edu — that will launch in early 2013.

Much more than a graphic facelift, the new website will be the result of a year-long process involving intensive research, focus groups, surveys and data analysis. It will feature more intuitive navigation to engage and guide visitors, particularly prospective students. “Web pages will feature testimonials to infuse comments from Park’s various constituents to give website visitors a more personal insight into Park’s culture and its brand,” Weighill said.

The website will be tied to Park’s other marketing initiatives —

Park is developing a comprehensive redesign of the University’s website — www.park.edu — that will launch in early 2013.

This is a draft of the new Strategic Plan page that features updates on Park’s Promise.

including print, broadcast, social media and online marketing — that collectively will be closely monitored for results, principally in relation to enrollment. “We will track and measure everything, from website visits to responses to online marketing, social media and other communications efforts,” Weighill said.

Branding is everyone

Reporting the University’s accomplishments to the public via the media will continue to be a top priority. “It’s a privilege to communicate the Park brand by showcasing

the many successes of Park students, faculty and staff,” Weighill said. As Park’s Promise takes the University to a new level of excellence, Park plans to achieve and promote higher levels of recognition and value as measured by national rankings and recognition mechanisms, including The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Strengthening the Park brand is tied to all facets of Park’s success, from attracting students, faculty and staff to supporting alumni relations and fund development.

Although Weighill is charged with leading the University’s branding efforts, she said the Park brand is ultimately everyone’s responsibility.

“Every interaction is an opportunity to influence and strengthen the Park brand,” Weighill said. “It’s the faculty member who creates a memorable class experience. It’s the helpfulness of Park staff in assisting students with enrollment. It’s the friendliness and attitude we all project in our respective roles that communicate the distinctive Park brand every day.”

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Photo by Kenny Johnson

Park University hosted a job fair on October 26 on the Parkville Campus. Pictured from left to right: Layne Prenger, director of Park’s Career Development Center; Erik Bergrud, M.P.A., ’94, associate vice president of constituent engagement; Julie McCollum, director of alumni relations; and Traci Klasing, assistant director of Park’s Career Development Center.

Optimal support

Alumni relations and career development offices align to optimize job search support services Service delivery to Park University’s top customers — its students — continues long past graduation. From recent graduates pursuing their first job to alumni seeking career transition and advancement, Park recognizes the growing need for support as students and alumni navigate an ever-changing, ever-challenging economy.

Traditionally, college career services are housed under student affairs. To better serve the growing needs of alumni, Park recently moved its Career Development Center to align with the Office of Alumni Relations under Park’s Office of University Advancement.

“We frequently hear from alumni that what they need from their educational institution is assistance with their job search and career transition,” said Laurie McCormack, vice president for university advancement.

“This restructuring will help strengthen and broaden career support services to Park students — whether past (alumni), present or future, as well as provide an engagement opportunity for our employed alumni to help other Park graduates.”

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Park.OptimalResume.com Priority 3 Ensure Customer Service and Organizational Effectiveness

Park.OptimalResume.com is a new career service now available online to Park University students and alumni to help create the optimal first impression in the job search.

Park students and alumni have free access to this robust and sophisticated suite of web-based services, including:

OptimalResume

Creates résumés appropriate for targeted industries and career levels, enabling each user to create and manage an unlimited number of résumés. OptimalResume is available in multiple languages.

The burgeoning need for job search assistance is stretching the resources of career centers in universities across the nation, including Park. “In a highly competitive job market, Park recognized the need to expand beyond its traditional career support model to reach and serve more students and alumni,” said Erik Bergrud, associate vice president of constituent engagement. “Just as Park has become an online leader in serving the educational needs of students around the globe, now we’re utilizing the most advanced technology to serve the career development needs of more students and alumni.”

OptimalLetter

Create professional letters including cover, application, networking and thank you letters with helpful instructions and examples.

OptimalInterview

Practice interviewing skills with real-life scenarios developed by seasoned employment professionals. Practice various interview formats, from screening and face-to-face to panel interviews.

This fall, the University launched Park.OptimalResume.com, an online career support service available at no charge to Park students and alumni to create the optimal first impression in the job search. The sophisticated program features guided assistance with résumés and cover letters, as well as modules to create portfolios and video résumés.

OptimalEfolio

“Even as we become more high-tech, we will continue to be high touch,” said Layne Prenger, director of career development. To enhance the personal touch, Park’s Career Development Center will partner with the Office of Alumni Relations to host career “boot camp” events at campus centers across the country. The events will include the opportunity to schedule one-on-one career counseling assistance.

OptimalVideoResume

“Alumni relations has always been about supporting alumni throughout their careers,” said Julie McCollum, director of alumni relations. “In partnership with Park’s Career Development Center, we can better align our efforts to support the career success of alumni across the country.”

Résumés tell employers what a job candidate can do; a portfolio shows them with videos, photos and documents.

Create an attractive, password-protected online portfolio that visually demonstrates skills and competencies.

With a web camera and microphone, create high quality video introductions or comprehensive experience summaries.

OptimalAssessment

Identify marketable skills with guided assessments to highlight achievements.

The new service is now available to Park students and alumni at no charge. Visit https://park.optimalresume.com/ to create an account.

Plans are in the works for career events at campus centers across the country in 2013.

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Photo by Kenny Johnson

Park University’s Office of Information Technology Services is located on the Parkville Campus. David Monchusie, ‘00, chief information officer (right), stands in the technological heart of the University — the server room — with members of his management team (left to right): Ken Austin, M.B.A. ‘04, director of projects and solutions; Tewaney Ayalneh, ‘03, director of technical operations; and Nathan Scherman, ‘03, technology procurement manager.

Virtual Innovation

With Park’s Promise, Park University will deploy virtual and mobile technologies to provide “anytime, anywhere” access to secure resources Success in the 21st century requires the use of technology. No organization can be successful without it. For Park University — with its commitment to military, international and online student populations, and 40 campus centers across the country — the bar for technological innovation to achieve success is significantly higher.

“The core of everything we do is providing access to essential technological resources, no matter where our students, faculty and staff are located around the globe,” said David Fall 2012 - 18

Monchusie, ‘00, Park’s chief information officer. To fulfill Park’s Promise, plans are under way to significantly expand and optimize Park’s use of advanced technologies.

Safe and secure

The goal of “anywhere, anytime” access is possible today thanks to the Internet. Yet with the wonder of web-based access, there are prudent precautions. “The greater the freedom of access, the greater the risk,” Monchusie said. “Within this lay the challenge and the opportunity.”

Monchusie said Park’s network provides the “optimum environment,” one that is pristine, efficient and secure. “Users will never be inundated with inappropriate material or accidently click something that will infect their device or Park’s network.” As Park strives to expand access, it also strives to protect Park’s data and resources, including students’ private information.

Protections aren’t always popular, particularly with students who want to download the latest applications. “The latest isn’t always the greatest when it comes to some of the

Priority 4 Optimize the use of technology

loosely developed applications out there,” Monchusie said. “We have a responsibility to maintain the integrity of Park’s network,” he said, which includes preventing illegal file sharing. Park uses SafeConnect, a network registration system and security compliance tool that detects for current virus protection, while monitoring legal use of information.

Virtual access

To provide optimum levels of “anytime, anywhere” access to Park’s technological resources, the University is expanding its commitment to virtualization.

In computing, virtualization is the creation of a virtual (rather than actual) version of something, such as an operating system, server, desktop or network resource.

Virtualization of technological resources will enable Park to deliver optimum access, functionality and security.

At the server level, Park is now operating in a virtual environment to enhance the safety and reliability of Park’s data. “If a server goes down, a virtual server immediately takes over,” Monchusie said. In addition to the Parkville Campus, Park is seeking a second physical location for University servers to provide another layer of redundant data protection.

To understand virtual desktops, consider this example: A faculty member leaves his or her Parkville office, travels to a New York conference, logs on to the Park network from a different computer and is presented with the exact same desktop as in the Parkville office, with access to all of the same applications and documents.

“With virtualization, a computer is just a conduit for an Internet browser session to connect the user to a controlled, virtual environment,” Monchusie said. In a virtual environment, access is not affected by factors such as a computer’s storage space, available software or virus protections. All that is required is an Internet connection and Park’s resources can be delivered to students, faculty and staff wherever they are, from whatever device they choose.

Maintaining computers for faculty and staff across 40 campuses presents a logistical challenge. Traditionally, computers are shipped to the Parkville Campus where the technology team installs the latest software and security upgrades. “Desktop virtualization will enable Park to update computers across its 40 campuses without service interruption,” Monchusie said.

Incorporating virtual resources, Park can more efficiently and cost-effectively deploy technology services to reach more students.

Currently, Park is implementing virtual technologies to serve students and faculty as part of Park’s new partnership with Barstow (Calif.) Community College.

Mobile access

As technology is getting faster — and considerably smaller — more students rely on the powerful, ever-present device in the palm of their hands.

“Students are relying more on their phones than on their computers to access information and constantly communicate,” Monchusie said. To meet this technological and cultural shift, Park is developing a mobile application for students, faculty and staff to

interact with Park on their mobile devices in practical ways.

The new “My Park Mobile” application will provide students immediate access to valuable information and resources. For example, “My Park Mobile” will enable students to check what classes are available and register from their mobile device. If they are on a waiting list for a class, a text will alert them as soon as space becomes available.

This is just one example of the many practical ways the mobile application will improve access and communication throughout the University.

Expanded Reach

Optimizing technology means that more students, in both domestic as well as international settings, will be connected for a lifetime of study with Park. As a recognized leader in online learning, Park will expand its reach with a specific goal outlined in Park’s Promise: 95 percent of e-delivery programs and anti-plagiarism safeguards are accessible to international learners (in global, political and cultural settings where online education is accepted) by 2013. Park will also achieve a five percent increase annually in the number of learners who register for Park’s e-delivery offerings.

Park’s Promise specifies the University’s goal to achieve national and international recognition for technological innovation from entities such as Sloan-C, Educause, U.S. News & World Report and Campus Technology. “With Park’s Promise, we will continue to raise the technology bar ever higher to meet the changing needs of Park students around the globe,” Monchusie said.

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Standing Stronger

Priority 5 Strengthen Park’s Fiscal Position

With Park’s Promise, the University has a clear plan to strengthen its fiscal position with a focus on balance and innovation While tuition at universities across the United States is on the rise, Park University is remaining affordable. In fact, Park was listed among the top 10 most affordable private colleges and universities in the April 14 issue of The New York Times.

As Park began planning for its future last fall, a fundamental question was posed: “Are we going to remain true to Park’s core values and reputation for providing access to a quality, affordable education? The answer was a resounding yes,” said Laurie D. McCormack, vice president for university advancement.

Solid ground While making plans to strengthen its financial future, Park is currently standing on solid ground. “Park’s fiscal position is strong,” McCormack said. In the last decade, Park has experienced tremendous growth, going from a $35 million to an $85 million enterprise, she said. Enrollment has increased in the past three years and a strong cash flow has enabled the University to put $4.5 million in reserves.

However, McCormack emphasized the need for increased private support to ensure much needed growth in excellence of facilities and programs for Park’s students.

Park’s Office of University Advancement is charged with generating and protecting

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revenue and relationships to bring resources to the University’s priorities. Since arriving at Park in January 2008, McCormack instituted changes to improve efficiencies, bringing all external relations under one advancement umbrella, including alumni relations, development, sponsored programs, community and government relations, and, more recently, career development. “The result is smarter, more effective planning and decision-making,” McCormack said.

Balance and innovation The new strategic plan will capitalize on this progress. “Park’s Promise outlines where we will invest time and resources toward clear and specific goals,” McCormack said.

Park’s Promise calls for a greater investment in developing alternative revenue streams to achieve a specified goal: “Park’s revenue stream is changed so that at least a 90/10 percent ratio is achieved for tuition/nontuition revenue by 2017.”

With only 90 percent of Park’s revenue from tuition, the remaining 10 percent will be realized with new and expanded revenue sources. In addition to significantly increasing the amount received in private gifts and government grants, Park looks to

grow enterprises such as Park University Enterprises Inc. As indicated in Park’s Promise, Park University and Park University Enterprises Inc. are working to develop and implement mutually agreed upon programs and enterprises that contribute to the achievement of the tax exempt educational purposes and financial stability of both.

Park University Enterprises PUEI is a tax-exempt nonprofit educational institution focused primarily on training the employees of a variety of for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Since 2002, PUEI has been affiliated with Park University.

PUEI delivers educational and training services through its three divisions: Fred Pryor Seminars, which provides a range of business skills training; Evelyn Wood Reading Dynamics, which teaches the world famous speed reading program known by that name; and CareerTrack, which trains human resources professionals and others.

Parkville Commercial Underground Just below the Parkville Campus is a network of roads, limestone walls and commercial

businesses that represent the University’s foresight in cultivating an alternative revenue stream. Park began excavation of the vast geologic real estate under the Parkville Campus in the 1970s and opened the Parkville Commercial Underground in 1996.

“The Parkville Commercial Underground is an ongoing, valuable funding source for the University with tremendous opportunity for growth,” said Roger Hershey, vice president and general counsel for Park University. Hershey recently reported to Park’s Board of Trustees that 96 percent of the PCU’s developed space is currently leased by 16 tenants, with more than 350,000 square feet of undeveloped space available for expansion.

Michael Hobbs, WattMaster Controls

Park’s Promise calls for the University to intensify PCU marketing efforts in partnership with its leasing and property management companies, Hakes Real Estate and Martin Properties, respectively, as well as surrounding community partners.

In September, PCU secured a new tenant, Sample Express, and its 20,000 squarefoot assembly and distribution facility. Based in Richmond, Mass., Sample Express specializes in manufacturing marketing tools for building materials. After a highly competitive process, the new tenant is the result of collective efforts from the Parkville Commercial Underground, Park University, Platte County (Mo.) Economic Development Council, Parkville Economic Development Council and the Missouri Partnership.

Commercial connections PCU tenants continue to expand, including ROSnet, a growing company that provides reporting and data management services to national restaurant chains. Cofounders Gene Peters and Jim Meredith said the PCU not only provides cost-efficient space and utilities, but the underground environment is ideal for protecting its significant investment in technology.

Gene Peters and Jim Meredith, ROSnet

PCU tenants are also seeking ways to connect to Park’s mission. After hiring several Park international students for internships, Michael Hobbs, owner of WattMaster Controls, established a scholarship together with his wife, Louise, to provide financial assistance to Park’s international students. WattMaster, one of the PCU’s first commercial tenants, manufactures energy management systems for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning industry, and has expanded several times to its current 45,000 square feet.

Tenants are also attracting national attention to the Parkville Commercial Underground. In August, Mobile Media Technologies Chief Information Officer Rob Sweeney welcomed a visit from Karen Mills, chief of the Small Business Administration during the SBA’s nationwide tour of manufacturing sites to highlight products made in America. The growing firm produces TextCaster, a service that enables media companies and organizations, including Park University’s Department of Athletics, to send text messages to large groups. Recently, the company launched messageQube to help individuals and organizations, such as health care providers, to connect with individuals, such as the elderly, who don’t use e-mail or texting.

PCU tenants include Cost Containment Strategies LLC (eShipping Technologies), DR Solution Group Inc., Fitness Resource Group Inc., JK Wines Inc., Jowler Creek Winery Inc., Kansas City Harmony, Khensa Bangert, Mobile Media Technologies LLC, Park Hill, Mo., School District, ROS Technology Services Inc. (ROSnet), Sample Express Inc., Snacks on Racks Inc., State Historical Society of Missouri, Strong Spirits Distilling Inc. and WattMaster Controls Inc.

Rob Sweeney, Mobile Media Technologies LLC Photos by Kenny Johnson

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UNIVERSITY NEWS

Hart, Lazarov earn Outstanding Parkite Award honors Park University students, faculty and staff were recognized for their exceptional scholarly efforts from the 2011-12 school year at the University’s annual Honors Convocation in April on the Parkville Campus. The most prestigious honor bestowed on any student at Park University — the Outstanding Parkite Award — went to seniors Emma Hart, psychology major, and Tomi Lazarov, biology major (both students graduated in May).

The University also recognized its outstanding faculty with the presentation of the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award to Andrew Johnson, Ph.D., professor of psychology.

The Outstanding Parkite Award is given to one senior female and one senior male student on the University’s Parkville Campus who best exemplify the ideals of the University in their character, conduct, scholarship and student activity participation. The awards are endowed by Dr. Elliot F. Parker in memory of his parents, Albert George and Jessie Bewley Parker.

The Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award was established by Manuchair Ebadi, ’60, Ph.D., in honor of Delta W. Gier, Ph.D., former chair of the Department of Chemistry who served Park from 1948 to 1990. The award pays tribute to a faculty member who shows evidence of commitment to high standards of excellence in the area of scholarship: teaching, discovery, integration and/or service. The recipient also shows effective and innovative connections between teaching and research, especially by undergraduate student involvement and participation.

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Park student honored for work with disabled children Taylor Whipple, a Park University junior majoring in psychology, was selected as one of Campus Connect’s 2012 Newman Civic Fellows in the spring. The award recognizes inspiring college student leaders who have worked to find solutions for challenges facing their communities.

Whipple, a member of the Degree with Honors Program, discovered a passion for working with physically and emotionally disabled children during her freshman year as part of a service learning course requirement. She has worked through VSA Kansas (previously Accessible Arts) with challenged children to incorporate art and music into their lives as therapy for physical and emotional disabilities.

Whipple also has researched and advocated the power of art to help the disabled overcome adversity.

Park President Michael H. Droge, Ph.D., nominated Whipple for the award.

Fort Leonard Wood Campus student named Marine of the Year Staff Sgt. Jessie McDonald, a sophomore management/engineering administration major at the Fort Leonard Wood (Mo.) Campus Center, was honored with the 2012 Marine of the Year award from Military Times magazine in July. The award honors service members who demonstrate pride, dedication and courage beyond what is expected, and are individuals who show concern for their fellow service members, their community and the country they serve. McDonald is a drafting/ surveying chief and interservice instructor with the Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 at the Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, N.C., where he recently transferred.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

NAIA champs! Men’s volleyball team captures third national title Park University’s men’s volleyball team won its third Tachikara-NAIA Men’s Volleyball National Invitational Tournament Championship in school history, defeating No. 1 ranked St. Ambrose (Iowa), 25-23, 25-19, 19-25, 25-17, on the Bees’ home court in Davenport in April. The Pirates, the tournament’s No. 4 seed, finished its magical season with a record of 21-7. The Pirates now have the second-most men’s volleyball national championships in NAIA history with three after winning in 2003 and 2008.

Park senior outside hitter Fray Luis Fajardo Arteaga was named the tournament most valuable player, and was joined on the all-tournament team by sophomore setter Rob Cordero. In addition, head coach Mike Talamantes was named the NAIA coach of the year at the conclusion of the tournament.

Lawrenz, Tubei selected as Park Student-Athletes of the Year The Park University Department of Athletics celebrated its 2011-12 All-Americans and academic achievements during its annual awards banquet in September in Kansas City, Mo. The event was highlighted by the announcements of the female and male student-athletes of the year. Vanessa Lawrenz, the school’s first-ever Capital One/ First-Team Academic All-American, and Daniel Tubei, a two-time national champion in the NAIA marathon, earned the honors. Additionally, the University celebrated 21 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes, four NAIA Scholar Teams, seven NAIA AllAmericans and six Capital One Academic All-Americans at the event.

Cierra Yu (left) and Joy Soucek

Scott AFB Campus students win prestigious Air Force award Joy Soucek, senior social psychology/ clinical and abnormal major, and Cierra Yu, junior social psychology major, both at Park University’s Scott Air Force Base (Ill.) Campus Center, were awarded the Air Force Sergeants Association Pitsenbarger Award this summer. The award is given annually to an Air Force enlisted service member who demonstrates commitment to leadership, citizenship, teamwork, community service, personal development and dedication to duty. Soucek is a weather forecaster. She volunteers her time to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and other local community support agencies. Yu is a cyber systems operator, but when needed, volunteers with 375th Medical Group helping to transfer wounded troops to and from the buses and airplanes preparing them for their trip home or to other medical facilities. She is also a volunteer sexual assault victim’s advocate, supporting and empowering sexual assault victims.

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UNIVERSITY NEWS Graduate student recognized by Library of Congress for radio series

Jill Biden visits with military families on the Parkville Campus Jill Biden, Ed.D., wife of vice president Joe Biden, visited Park University’s Parkville Campus in July to talk to members of the Missouri National Guard and their families regarding “Partners in Care,” a faith-based program that assists military families in need. Partners in Care finds faith-based organizations in the same area as military families and connects them with support services such as counseling, transportation and household needs. Biden heard from a handful of participants in the program and said she understood the emotional needs of the families and military members. “When my son was deployed to Iraq, my church put my son’s name in the bulletin, and complete strangers came up to me every week and said, ‘I’m praying for your son,’” Biden said.

University offers Kansas City Leadership Academy Park University announced its new Kansas City Leadership Academy this fall, a program designed to groom young professionals for greater leadership roles in organizations, the community and beyond. The Academy is led by Kay Barnes, distinguished professor for public leadership in Park’s Hauptmann School for Public Affairs and former mayor of Kansas City, Mo., and Don Wise, coordinator of nonprofit and community services and instructor of public administration at the Hauptmann School. The Academy provides attendees with a combination of the latest scholarship in leadership studies, plus practical hands-on guidance in achieving executive excellence.

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Rex Temple, who is pursuing a Master of Public Affairs degree, was recognized by having his radio series, “My Last Tour,” preserved in the U.S. Library of Congress as part of the Veteran’s History Project. Now retired, Temple, an Air Force senior master sergeant, was deployed to Afghanistan from 2009-10 as part of an embedded training team with the Afghan National Army. He was responsible for teaching combat logistics to ANA soldiers, along with mentoring the religious cleric.

Temple, a Bronze Star recipient, provided weekly updates and interviews of his combat and humanitarian missions to WUSF radio, a National Public Radio affiliate. He also wrote an award-winning blog complete with daily entries and pictures of his deployment. During his tour, Temple traveled through seven provinces, endured 183 combat logistic patrol missions and was exposed to the perils of ambushes, rocket attacks, IEDs and fire fights. His interviews included discussions with former Mujahedeen soldiers, female ANA soldiers and village civilians.

Visit http://bit.ly/NAoxTE to listen to his collection of radio articles.

Leading the way Park University Magazine continues this special series to highlight individual trustees and members of Park’s various advisory boards who provide support and counsel to the University.

Park University is grateful for their invaluable commitment of time, expertise and financial support to lead the way to Park’s continued success.

As an independent university, Park is governed by a 21- to 31-member Board of Trustees.

The Board is comprised of business, civic and philanthropic leaders, and alumni and friends, who advocate on the University’s behalf.

Additionally, several advisory groups comprised of interested alumni and friends, provide guidance and ideas to the University in general, and specific academic units in particular.

Brent Miles, M.P.A. ‘05 Chair, Park University Civic Advisory Council Vice President of Economic Development NorthPoint Development Kansas City, Mo. Park University is much more than a quaint campus in Parkville, and it’s our job to make sure the community knows that,” said Miles, who leads the 12-member Park University Civic Advisory Council comprised of business and community leaders.

Besides representing Park at various civic events, Miles said the CAC rolls up its sleeves to take on two projects each year on Park’s behalf. “We tap members’ range of expertise, from real estate and banking, to architecture and engineering,” said Miles, who brings extensive experience in economic development.

Miles is currently leading the development of Riverside Horizons, a 5 million square-foot business park in Riverside, Mo., three miles from the Parkville Campus. As the former president of the Wyandotte (County, Kan.) Economic Development Council, Miles cultivated significant economic investment in the area with the construction of Livestrong Sporting Park and the new Cerner Corp. campus in Kansas City, Kan., while serving on the team responsible for bringing Google’s first ultra-high-speed fiber network to the Kansas City metropolitan area.

In his second year as chair, Miles is leading the CAC’s new “Town Gown Relations” initiative to research and recommend ways to improve relationships with communities surrounding Park’s campus centers across the country. “We will be looking closely at how Park is viewed and ways to forge and enhance mutually beneficial relationships,” Miles said.

Raymond Mott, ‘11

Recent Graduate Trustee, Park University Board of Trustees Master Sergeant, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) Sahuarita, Ariz.

Whether stationed in England or deployed to Saudi Arabia, Mott said Park University was always there for him.

“No matter where I was, Park made it possible for me to continue my education,” said Mott, who graduated from Park’s Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Ariz.) Campus Center with a Bachelor of Science degree in management/ human resources.

As one of two recent graduates to join the Park University Board of Trustees, Mott brings a personal perspective to the table as a student, military member and father of four. “I certainly understand the challenges many non-traditional students face in completing their degrees while juggling the demands of family, military and jobs,” Mott said.

Mott said his new role as a trustee is a great honor and responsibility. “Park’s accessibility and personal support positioned me for success,” Mott said. “Park has made all the difference in my life. That’s why it’s a privilege to serve Park as it looks to the future, considering how valuable education is to our country. I want to be a voice for students with an eye on keeping college affordable and ensuring others have the opportunity I was given.”

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In academia Publications Joe Cunningham, English as an international language instructor, co-authored an article for the peer-reviewed Canadian Modern Language Review.

The article, “Telecollaboration for Professional Purposes: Towards Developing a Formal Register in the Foreign Language Classroom,” presented the results of a semester-long online exchange between American learners of German and German-speaking professionals in Germany.

An article written by Amber Dailey-Hebert, Ph.D., professor of adult education, was published in The Internet and Higher Education journal. The paper, “The Role of Emotions and Task Significance in Virtual Education,” analyzes the role of emotions in a virtual world through students’ level of enjoyment and boredom, and their influence on students’ achievement levels.

Steve Hallman, Ph.D., (pictured) assistant professor of management, and Al Stahl, Ph.D., adjunct instructor of information systems, coauthored an article published in the Electronic Journal of Digital Enterprise. The article, “IT Outsourcing: A ‘Boon’ or a ‘Curse,’” explores the nature of outsourcing related to the information technology industry.

An article written by James Pasley, Ph.D., associate professor of political science, was published in The Journal of International and Global Studies.

The article, “Senate Voting on the Strategic Defense Initiative: The Impact of the 1991 Gulf War,” examines the impact on Senate votes of the perceived success of the Patriot missile in the 1991 Gulf War. Debra Sheffer, Ph.D., associate professor of history, contributed four articles to The Encyclopedia of the War of 1812: A Political, Social and Military History. The threevolume work spotlights the key battles, standout individuals and essential weapons, social, political and economic developments, and examines the wider, concurrent European developments that directly affected the conflict in North America.

Presentations Kenneth Christopher, D.P.A., associate dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and chair and associate professor of criminal justice administration, presented at the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement: Border Management-North Summit in July in Seattle. The presentation, “Joint Law Enforcement-Security Planning for Port Security,”

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covered how various administrative levels coordinate communication efforts using targeted seaport security case studies.

Suzanne Discenza, Ph.D., associate professor and director of the Master of Healthcare Leadership Program, and Jeff Ehrlich, Ed.D., assistant professor of healthcare leadership and associate dean of the Hauptmann School for Public Affairs, presented a poster at the Association of University Programs in Healthcare Administration’s annual meeting in Minneapolis in May. The poster, “Teaching the Art of Forming Strategic Alliances and Alignments to Meet the Mandates of Healthcare Reform,” discussed the concept that educators in healthcare management must adapt their teaching strategies to ensure their students are well-equipped to forge these new models of collaboration between hospitals, physicians and other healthcare providers.

Walter Kisthardt, Ph.D., professor of social work and chair/program director, was a guest lecturer at the University of the Western Cape in Cape Town, South Africa, in May. Kisthardt’s presentation focused on the process of integrating the Strengths Perspective into curriculum. In addition, Kisthardt interviewed lawyers and social workers regarding implementation of the new national “Children’s Act,” which mandates closer collaboration between lawyers and social workers in conducting assessments and reaching dispositions regarding the best interests children in custody hearings.

Mark Noe, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Communication and Fine Art, and director of the Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership program, presented at a Technology, Entertainment and Design event in July in Kansas City, Mo. Noe’s presentation, “Men, Women and the Sources of Our Discontent,” discussed how men and women have similar goals and expectations in terms of personal and professional relationships. Noe explained that the problems that arise are often a matter of style rather than substance.

Awards, appointments, and recognitions Beverley Byers-Pevitts, Ph.D., former Park University president, was inducted into the College of Fellows of the American Theatre this summer.

The primary purpose of the CFAT is to promote and encourage the highest standards of research, writing and creativity in educational and professional theatre through honoring distinguished service and notable accomplishment by individuals of recognized national stature. Byers-Pevitts served as the 14th president of Park from 2001 to 2009. She was the founding

In academia president of the Association for Theatre in Higher Education and was heavily involved in the American Theatre Association.

Michael H. Droge, Ph.D., Park University president, was was honored by the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, as its 2012 Distinguished Alumnus. The honor, given to Droge for achievements in his professional career, was presented at the GSBS-UTMB commencement ceremony in May. Courtney Goddard, J.D., associate vice president and general counsel, was honored by Ingram’s, a Kansas City business magazine, as a member of its “40 Under Forty” class of 2012. The selection honors Kansas City’s most accomplished young business and community leaders.

People to People International selected Dawn Hyatt, program assistant with the Office of Global Education and Study Abroad, as its 2012 Outstanding Campus Adviser. Hyatt was recognized in August at the PTPI Board of Trustees meeting in Tallinn, Estonia. The Outstanding Campus Adviser Award is presented to an adult adviser of a PTPI student chapter or a campus adviser of a PTPI university chapter who has excelled in the position of leadership and contributed substantially to the overall development of the chapter.

Traci Klasing, assistant director and internship coordinator of the Career Development Center, was elected president of the Missouri Career Development Association for 2012-13. While president-elect in 2011-12, MoCDA was awarded the outstanding state chapter of the year given by the National Career Development Association.

Park University was awarded a $7,500 grant by the Bringing Theory to Practice Project, an independent project working in partnership with the Association of American Colleges and Universities. The grant, submitted by Adam Potthast, Ph.D., assistant professor of philosophy, will help fund “Transforming the First-Year Student Experience,” a plan to use the LE 100 (First-Year Seminar) course as a tool for inspiring student engagement in courses and university life, civic engagement in their communities and to introduce them to the resources they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Marthann Schulte, Ph.D., associate professor of education, was elected to a three-year term as an at-large member of the Association for Continuing Higher Education’s Board of Directors.

Schulte’s term with the ACHE Board began at the association’s annual conference in November in Austin, Texas. Schulte intends to champion two issues: to promote flexibility for adult lifelong learning, especially for adults who must relocate due to job or family, and to increase faculty involvement in the association.

Two Park University staff members are helping fill roles in the Office of Academic Affairs as a national search is under way to fill the position of associate vice president for academic affairs. Rebekkah Stuteville, Ph.D., assistant professor of public administration and director of the Master of Public Affairs program, is serving as assistant vice president for academic affairs, handling most of the day-to-day items that come into the Office of Academic Affairs related to curriculum, student issues, the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, assessment, the Academic Support Center and event planning. Jane Wood, Ph.D., dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, is serving as special assistant to the provost to assume the primary responsibility of completing the Higher Learning Commission Self-Study.

Linda Vestal, director of university mail services, was appointed to a two-year term on the American Association of University Women Missouri board as co-chair of college and university relations. Vestal will visit and work closely with faculty, staff and student leaders of AAUW college and university partner members to support and assist them in AAUW-related activities and student affiliate campus groups.

Dorla Watkins, vice president for finance and administration, was honored in June by the Kansas City Business Journal during its 2012 CFO of the Year awards luncheon. Watkins was one of 13 honorees at the event who were judged for their contributions to their companies’ growth and financial success, their roles in corporate management and strategic planning and their community involvement. Watkins was recognized in the nonprofit category.

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Alumni Council Jeff McKinney, ’81 President Round Rock, Texas jeff.mckinney@park.edu Nancy Greinke, ’01 President-Elect Kansas City, Mo. nancy.greinke@park.edu Toni Madeira, ’88 Treasurer Kansas City, Mo. antoinette.madeira@park.edu Susan Kensett McGaughey, ’74 Past President Olathe, Kan. susan.mcgaughey@park.edu David Barclay, ’53 Overland Park, Kan. david.barclay@park.edu Nick Casale, ‘71 Parkville, Mo. nicholas.casale@park.edu Bob Dandridge, ‘04 New Baden, Ill. robert.dandridge@park.edu Duane Davidson, ’00, MPA ’03 Liberty, Mo. duane.davidson@park.edu David Ehrlich, ’00 Dumfries, Va. david.ehrlich@park.edu Karen Peters Frankenfeld, ‘59 Bella Vista, Ark. karen.frankenfeld@park.edu Kathryn Phillips Hernandez, ‘83 St. Joseph, Mo. kathryn.hernandez@park.edu Sarah Hopkins-Chery, ’07, MA ‘09 Parkville, Mo. sarah.hopkins@park.edu Michael Hurley, ’71, Ph.D. Castleton, N.Y. michael.hurley@park.edu LaKeisha Johnson, ’08 Independence, Mo. lakeisha.johnson@park.edu Jessica Moody Morgan, ’09, ME ‘11 Riverside, Mo. jessica.morgan02@park.edu Denzil Ross, ’06, MBA ’09 Kansas City, Mo. denzil.ross@park.edu

Staff Liaison Julie McCollum Director of Alumni Relations julie.mccollum@park.edu (816) 584-6206

Alumniad News and notes for Park University alumni The purpose of the Park University Alumni Association is “to assist and advance the interest of Park University and to cherish the spirit of friendship among its members.�

Fall 2012 Vol. 103 No. 1

www.park.edu/alumni

Contact the Office of Alumni Relations with news, comments and questions about the Park University Alumni Association and its members.

Phone: (816) 584-6206 or (800) 488-PARK (7275) Fax: (816) 505-5409 E-mail: alumnioffice@park.edu Address: 8700 N.W. River Park Drive, Box 37, Parkville, MO 64152

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Alumni & Friends I am honored to be able to serve my alma mater as the Park University Alumni Association president, especially during this exciting time in Park’s history. As alumni, we represent Park’s Promise to the future and the University’s lifelong commitment to those who serve their community and country.

Park offered me ample opportunities for service as an undergraduate, from resident assistant to student government senator and Narva yearbook editor.

These days, I live in the Austin, Texas, area, serving my community as a special education teacher. Because Park made such an impact on me, I’m pleased to use the leadership skills I honed as an undergraduate as your Alumni Council president. I invite you to join me in serving the University that helped form who you are today.

Many of you celebrated the Park experience during Alumni Weekend this fall on the Parkville Campus with festivities for the young and young at heart, from parties, picnics and parades to a golf scramble, volleyball match and a 50-year class reunion. We were especially honored to present James A. Roy, ’96, chief master sergeant of the Air Force, with the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Special thanks to the Alumni Weekend committee for their hard work in organizing a memorable event, and to Julie McCollum, director of alumni relations, and her staff for the tireless work they do every day to help us stay connected to Park and to each other.

There are countless ways to connect and serve as Park alumni. Would you like to help a student with his/her career pursuits as an Alumni Match mentor?

To help us all enjoy a lifelong connection, we appreciate your participation with the Harris Connect project to update Park’s alumni directory. And thanks to social media, there are many ways to stay connected to your alma mater, including PirateLink, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Flicker and YouTube.

Your lifelong connection to Park will benefit you personally and professionally, while also helping future students prosper, too. We look forward to you joining us in supporting Park’s Promise for the future.

online community PirateLink

Stay connected with fellow alumni and your alma mater.

Use your Park ID number to create an account or log on with your Facebook account at www.park.edu/alumni.

Can’t remember your Park ID number? Find it above your name on the label of this magazine or contact alumnioffice@park.edu.

Find alumni merchandise, invitations to events, photo galleries, current and back issues of the Park University Magazine, yearbooks from past years, Alumni Hall of Fame, Park alumni window decals, career support, order a transcript or a copy of your diploma, get a Park e-mail account, learn about the Park University Alumni Association and the Alumni Council, sign up to travel, apply for scholarships, buy a brick for the Tribute Garden, learn how to volunteer, support the Alumni Association’s scholarships and show your Park Pride.

Connect to Park alumni through social media Facebook: www.facebook.com/ parkuniversityalumniassociation Connect to PirateLink through http://apps.facebook.com/park-alumni Twitter: www.twitter.com/parkalumni LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com Join the “Park University Alumni” Group

Jeff McKinney, ’81 Park University Alumni Association President jeff.mckinney@park.edu

Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/parkalumni/collections You Tube: www.youtube.com/parkuniversityvideos

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Traveling the world with park GREECE This June, Park University alumni and friends joined Park President Michael H. Droge, Ph.D. and his wife, Molly, on 14-day tour of Greece led by Thimios Zaharopoulos, Ph.D., Park’s vice president for global and lifelong learning, who guided guests through the many wonders of his homeland.

Park travelers explored the ancient city of Athens, where they visited the Acropolis, the most famous site in the city; Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games; Temple of Olympian Zeus; Hadrian’s Arch; Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier.

The tour included a Saronic Gulf cruise — stopping at three beautiful Greek islands: Aegina, Poros and Hydra — and an Aegean cruise to visit the breathtaking islands of Mykonos, Patmos (where St. John wrote Revelations), Rhodes and Santorini.

“It was the trip of a lifetime.”

—Toni Madeira,’88

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ALUMNI WEEKEND

Park University President Dr. Michael Droge, and his wife, Molly, were grand marshals of the Pirate Parade (along with their dog, Teddy).

Nancy Rohlfing Potter, ’66, and Paul Garrett, ’67, march in the Pirate Parade with the school mascot, Sir George.

The kids loved the fun, too!

Classes of 1961, 1962 and 1963 gathered for their 50th reunion.

ALUMNI WEEKEND Recap Alumni Weekend moved to the fall, to join Harvest Fest in 2012! Alumni, students, faculty and staff enjoyed the camaraderie of celebrating their beloved Park University together. Class and special group reunions, alumni athletic games, the Pirate Parade, campus tours, Family Fun Day, Alumni Association Awards Banquet, soccer and volleyball games, an alumni/student luncheon and barbecue on the Chapel lawn filled the weekend. Plan to join the fun next year — September 19-21, 2013.

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Alumni Weekend photos courtesy of Veronica Goodman, Frank Hamilton and Brianne Steffel.

ALUMNI WEEKEND

A court full of Pirate volleyball players from the past came to scrimmage on campus.

The combined Alumni Weekend and Harvest Fest was a hit with the students, too.

Softball alumni enjoyed the picnic after a morning on the field.

Friends from the Class of 1956 – Barbara Moser Schaible and Gail McMahon Batchelor.

Men’s soccer alumni suited up for a showdown on Julian Field.

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Alumni AWARDS Distinguished Alumnus Award

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force

James A. Roy, ’96

The Park University Distinguished Alumnus Award is given to an alumnus/a who has distinguished himself/herself through career, service or community achievements.

Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James A. Roy, ’96, represents the highest enlisted level of leadership, and as such, provides direction for the enlisted force and represents their interests, as appropriate, to the American public and to those in all levels of government. He serves as the personal adviser to the chief of staff and the secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness and proper utilization of the enlisted force. Roy is the 16th chief master sergeant appointed to the highest noncommissioned officer position in the Air Force.

Roy grew up in Monroe, Mich., and entered the Air Force in September 1982. His background includes leadership roles at squadron, group, numbered air force and combatant command levels. He has been stationed at locations in Florida, Hawaii, Mississippi, Missouri, South Carolina, Virginia, Guam, Japan, Kuwait and South Korea.

Roy attended Park University’s Fort Leonard Wood (Mo.) Campus Center where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in engineering management, graduating summa cum laude in 1996.

Park’s personalized support was what Roy most appreciated. “Park was extremely helpful in carefully mapping my degree plan, taking into account the expeditionary nature of my military career. I was ensured of the courses I needed to stay on track, even after moving to my next assignment.”

Park’s flexible program helped Roy pursue and complete his degree. “Flexibility in educating the military is most important.

While a member is serving, their education

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program must be flexible enough to sustain temporary remote duty, permanent changes of station and deployments,” he said.

As military veterans pursue civilian careers, Roy said employers recognize the value veterans bring to their companies. “Employers who hire veterans value people who understand service and loyalty, values instilled through military service.”

Roy and his wife, Paula, live at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland with their two sons.

After more than 30 years of service, Roy will retire on Jan. 31, 2013, and move with his family to Charleston, S.C.

Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Service Award

Deanna Medlin Armstrong, ’70

Park University’s Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Service Award recognizes alumni for volunteer service to community and/or civic organizations.

For Deanna Medlin Armstrong, ’70, service is a priority that guides her life. “I was raised in a family who valued helping others, giving

back and being a part of the community,” Armstrong said. “I learned by example.”

The late Marlowe Sherwood, former Park alumni director, recognized Armstrong’s campus leadership as a student and invited her to join Park’s Alumni Council where Armstrong served a total of 14 years, including a term as president in 1998. As president, Armstrong created the Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Scholarship and the Torchlighter Award.

Armstrong’s career began in the classroom.

As an English and journalism teacher in the Park Hill (Mo.) School District, she managed Park Hill High School’s awardwinning yearbook and newspaper. In 1980, Armstrong was recognized as the Missouri Journalism Educator of the Year.

With a passion for education and service, Armstrong’s career veered toward nonprofit.

As the chief program officer for the national Camp Fire organization, she redesigned the curriculum to meet educational standards and measurable outcomes. After serving as the executive director of Head Start of Shawnee Mission (Kan.), Armstrong consulted with nonprofit clients on program development, marketing, fundraising and leadership training.

The Park University Alumni Awards are given to Park alumni who have distinguished themselves through career service or community achievements.

Today, Armstrong is the executive director of Platte (County, Mo.) Senior Services Inc. She oversees programs serving a population expected to double in the next decade. “As families move away and technology changes at warp speed, seniors face a disconnect from society unlike previous generations,” she said.

Armstrong is the board president of the Bell Road Barn Players, the oldest community theater organization in the Kansas City area, which was started by the late Jenkin David, Armstrong’s English professor at Park.

After 14 years on the Park University Board of Trustees, Armstrong served on Park’s Strategic Planning Commission. “I was impressed by the professionalism and commitment from all levels of the University,” she said.

Torchlighter Award

Robert C. Burns, D.D.S The Torchlighter Award honors those who have made a significant, long-standing contribution and a commitment to Park University. Recipients who are not Park alumni receive honorary alumni status as part of this award.

Robert C. Burns, D.D.S., and Park share a cherished history. “I lived the first eight years of my life on the Parkville Campus,” Burns said.

Growing up in Parkville in the 1940s and 1950s, Park’s flagship campus was Burns’ stomping ground. He swam at the Park pool, set bowling pins at the Jolly Roger, camped on the shores of Park College Lake and hiked Alfalfa Point, the highest point on campus overlooking the Missouri River.

“It’s a magnificent view,” he said.

In 1965, Burns completed his doctorate in dental surgery and opened his Platte Woods, Mo., practice. On Christmas Eve that year, life took a sudden turn — Burns was drafted into the Army. “It was a real

shocker. I left behind my new practice, wife and three children.”

In 1967, Burns went to Vietnam with the 11th Armored Calvary Regiment as the only dentist among 5,000 men. “I was an unusual dentist for sure.” Burns returned in 1968 to restart his practice while in the U.S. Army Reserve until he retired as a colonel in 2001. His military experience forged a deeper relationship to Park. “One of the reasons I served as a trustee was Park’s reputation serving the military.”

In 1976, he built a medical building in Parkville where he practiced with his son, David R. Burns, D.D.S., until he retired in 2010. Burns’ long list of contributions to Park includes nine years as a member of the Board of Trustees. His work on numerous committees include serving as the Student Services Committee chair in 2007 and Academic Affairs Committee vice chair in 2011. He served on Park’s Military Advisory Board and the 2005-06 Master Planning Commission, and he was appointed to the current Master Planning Commission in 2010.

Burns said his greatest contribution is being a voice for Park in Parkville. “I’m surprised people don’t realize what’s in our own backyard,” he said. With the Torchlighter Award, Burns is proud to become an honorary alumnus as Park evolves into a renowned university. “I think of Park University as a twinkling star that just keeps getting brighter.”

Park University Promising Young Professional Award

Denzil Ross, ’06, MBA ’09 The Park University Promising Young Professional Award recognizes alumni who show exceptional promise of leadership and contribution to their profession and/or community. The recipient of this award will have graduated from Park within the last five years and be younger than the age of 35.

College graduates are often asked the classic question: Where do you see yourself in five

Visit www.park.edu/alumni/awards to read more about the Alumni Association Awards.

years? Denzil Ross, ’06, MBA ’09, was posed a bolder question: Where do you see yourself in the next 50 years? His confident response crystallized his career goal: “I see myself as a successful hospital chief executive officer.”

What set Ross on a courageous career pursuit was this next question: If you want to be a CEO, why aren’t you talking to CEOs? For college graduates, meeting with a CEO is a pipe dream. The idea was daunting, yet Ross forged a plan. His secret? The informational interview.

Ross can effortlessly recite his “spiel” upon delivering his résumé: My name is Denzil Ross. I’m not looking for a job. I’m looking for 30 minutes with your CEO. If ever he/ she could spare those 30 minutes, it would be greatly appreciated. His persistence paid off. Within six months, Ross secured meetings with the CEOs at eight Kansas City area hospitals.

Ross came to Park from Trinidad and Tobago on a basketball scholarship in 2002.

He applied for a Green Card every year in hopes of establishing permanent U.S. residency. A work-study position in Park’s Office of University Advancement made it possible for Ross to return to Park for his master’s degree. Ross’ proven leadership — Student Ambassador president, resident assistant and 2006 Outstanding Parkite Award recipient — make him a perfect fit for the job.

In March 2009, Ross received his Green Card just before completing his Master of Business Administration degree, and just in time to accept a job from Truman Medical Centers in Kansas City, Mo. Thirty minutes with John Bluford, TMC’s president and CEO, turned into three hours, and two months later, he was named special assistant to the chief operating officer and has since been promoted three times. Today, he is the assistant director of TMC’s Corporate Contact Center, managing a staff of 55 to schedule all hospital appointments, and he is on track to achieve his CEO dream.

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LIFELONG CONNECTIONS It’s no wonder a graduation ceremony is called a commencement — meaning “to begin or to start.” For Park University graduates, it marks the beginning of a lifelong relationship with their alma mater that is more than a wardrobe of T-shirts, flags and bumper stickers.

It’s an active, personal and enduring connection rooted in a shared passion for lifelong learning and service to a global community. Whether they graduated 50 years ago or five months ago, Park alumni have a proud history of coming together to enrich their connection to each other and to volunteer their time and talents to ensure a quality Park education for generations to come.

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R. Lynn Bondurant, ’61, Ph.D. Bachelor of Arts, Biology NASA Consultant, Cleveland, Ohio

“We’ve impacted the world in many ways since we were together 50 years ago,” said Bondurant. To help organize the 50th reunion for the classes of 1961, 1962 and 1963 during Park’s Alumni Weekend this fall, Bondurant personally called each of his classmates. “It’s inspiring to hear about the many contributions Park alumni have made, both in their professions and in their communities,” he said. Bondurant’s own contributions are impressive, with a 40-year career as the educational programs officer for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, and the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Md. Bondurant also helped create the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., and the Challenger Center for Space Science Education in Alexandria, Va. Since retiring in 1999, Bondurant consults with NASA to develop educational programs. He shares his lifelong love of learning as a member of Park University’s Board of Trustees where he has served for nine years. “I feel it is imperative for Park graduates to be an active part of the Park family,” he said. “With our contributions of time, talent and treasure, we help Park students continue to make the world a better place.”

Phil Wheeler, ’62

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Business Administration Retired, former food service marketing executive and consultant Tucson Ariz.

Carol Groundwater Wheeler, ’62 Bachelor of Arts, Political Science Retired, former teacher and travel agent Tucson, Ariz.

“Park has become part of our lives,” said Carol about the lifelong Park relationships she and her husband, Phil, have enjoyed since graduating from Park. The college sweethearts not only helped organize their 50th class reunion during this fall’s Alumni Weekend, but they will also celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in December. Both see their alumni service as a way to help others succeed. “Park helped us be successful in our professional and personal lives,” Phil said, “and by helping Park continue to be successful, we can help others find

their paths to success.” College was affordable for Phil thanks to Park’s work-study program to help pay his tuition. From washing dishes to managing Park’s vending machines, Phil said he gained valuable business experience while earning his business degree. With the encouragement from his beloved political science professor, the late Jerzy Hauptmann, Ph.D., professor emeritus of political science and public administration, Phil earned a graduate degree from Cornell University in New York before launching a 25-year career as a food service marketing executive and a 15-year consultancy until retiring in 2009. It was in New York that Phil and Carol opened their home to start Park’s first alumni chapter and by 1980, Phil joined the Park University Board of Trustees, serving his first of two terms until 2011.

He spearheaded efforts to raise funds for the Hauptmann School for Public Affairs and has chaired nearly every Board committee.

With their two children in school, Carol joined the Alumni Council, serving more than 12 years to plan reunions, alumni weekends and offering her professional expertise as a travel agent to plan Park’s first alumni trips, including an Alaskan cruise. Together, they’ve met many Park students and alumni at campus centers across the country who have become like family. “No matter where we go, we feel the same Park spirit,” Carol said. “Our reunions are happy, nostalgic celebrations,” Phil said, “but we’re excited to be a part of Park’s promising future.”

Jay Flaherty, ’71

Bachelor of Arts, History Real Estate Appraiser, Mueller Services Inc. Kansas City, Mo. “The friendships I’ve made at Park have stood the test of time,” said Flaherty. With more than six years of service to the University’s Alumni Council, the last four as treasurer, Flaherty makes it a priority to be a welcoming presence to alumni as a member of the outreach committee. As a member of Park’s swim team from 1967 to 1971, and a lifetime member of the “Hermits,” a fraternal group on the Parkville Campus, Park played a significant role in his life. Flaherty’s connection to Park runs in the family. His mother, Winona, was the director of Park’s Waverly Health Center from 1962 to 1972. Flaherty and his wife, Cindy, ’73, established a scholarship that is to be awarded to students enrolled in Park’s Ellen Finley Earhart Nursing Program in Winona Flaherty’s name to honor her memory and love of the nursing profession. “Park gave me a great education and lifelong friendships,” Flaherty said.

“That’s why it’s important for me to give back to an institution that has given me so much.”

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LIFELONG CONNECTIONS Susan Kensett McGaughey, ’74 Bachelor of Arts, Political Science Private caregiver Roeland Park, Kan.

“With my Park alumni luggage tag, it’s amazing to hear the many nice comments about Park in my travels,” McGaughey said. With a career in the home health care industry — including long-term care and hospice — McGaughey is staying close to her own home these days to help care for her new granddaughters. Yet she remains unwaveringly dedicated to Park, having recently served as Park’s Alumni Council president.

She continues to serve on the Nominating Committee and as the Alumni Council representative to Park’s Board of Trustees. With her husband, Rich McGaughey, ’73, the McGaugheys have been active Park alumni. Together, they enjoy lifelong friendships with fellow alumni who share their commitment to today’s Park students. “When I was a student, I felt a connection to the alumni who supported Park, and thus supported me,” she said. “I realize now that it is the support of donors, including many alumni, who make it affordable for many students, including myself, to attend Park.” In her volunteer service to Park, McGaughey most enjoys meeting new students and alumni.

“Seeing their enthusiasm for Park makes me want to do more.”

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Brian L. Hoffman, ‘86, Ph.D. Bachelor of Arts, Chemistry Professor of Biology and Mathematics Park University Parkville, Mo.

“Without Park’s support, I wouldn’t have been able to finish my college degree in four years,” said Hoffman, who

attended Park on academic and athletic scholarships. After earning a doctorate in cell and molecular biology from St. Louis University, Hoffman returned to Park in 1995, where he has been teaching courses from calculus and statistics to biochemistry and molecular biology. “Park is an educational jewel,” Hoffman said. “The faculty could easily work at larger research-oriented institutions, but choose Park because they value personal interactions with students and can shape the curriculum to keep it relevant.” As a teacher and alumnus, Hoffman is in a unique position to cultivate lifelong connections and actively participates in Alumni Weekend and track and field and cross country reunions. He enjoys teaching, whether to students in a classroom or Park alumni in a quarry, as he did for the 2010 Montana Dinosaur Dig. In addition to time and talent, Hoffman believes in giving back what was given to him by contributing to Park scholarships that help students “finish their degrees with less worry about finances.”

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”— Winston Churchill Heather Jones Avila, ‘96 Bachelor of Arts, Communication Arts English Teacher, Perris High School Perris, Calif.

Toni Madeira, ’88

Bachelor of Science Business Administration/Human Resource Management Chief Financial Officer, Candice Bennett and Associates Inc. Kansas City, Mo. “I plan to serve Park for many years to come,” said Madeira, who demonstrates a lifelong connection to Park from her current role as Alumni Council treasurer to serving on Park’s School of Business Advisory Board. Beyond board meetings, Madeira’s dedication to Park includes global adventures. “It was the trip of a lifetime,” Madeira said about the recent Park-sponsored tour of Greece. When she’s not traveling the world, Madeira manages back-office operations for a market research firm owned by her sister, who started the business with help from her university’s alumni mentoring program. This sparked an idea for Madeira to develop Park University Alumni Match, a new mentoring program that pairs students with alumni who share professional interests. Madeira implemented all facets of the program, including serving as a mentor. “Establishing this new program allowed me to directly offer Park my business experience, particularly in quality management,” she said. As a member of the American Society for Quality, Madeira has served as a judge for both the Excellence in Missouri Foundation and the Kansas Award for Excellence Foundation. Madeira’s quality service to Park has not gone overlooked. In April, Park’s Student Senate presented the Tipton Award to Madeira for her outstanding service to the University.

“My students always thank me for sending them to Park,” said Avila. For more than a decade, Avila has been a high school English teacher and, for the past seven years, a volleyball coach.

As coach and teacher, Avila is often a resource to students seeking college advice. “For students looking for a quality educational experience, Park is my first choice,” she said. Living in sunny California, Avila maintains strong ties to her former faculty and coaches on the Parkville Campus, including Brian Renshaw, Park’s track and field and cross country head coach, to whom Avila has recommended a number of student-athletes over the years. Avila said she is confident that when she sends students halfway across the United States to the Parkville Campus, she is certain they will be wellcared for and will enjoy a successful college experience. “It is a great feeling to know that Park offers the same great experience I had to a new generation.”

LaKeisha Johnson, ’08

Bachelor of Science, Management/Finance Child Support Specialist, Family Support Division Jackson County (Mo.) Prosecuting Attorney’s Office Kansas City, Mo. “Supporting Park is important to me, both personally and professionally,” said Johnson.

She embodies Park’s values, from lifelong education to community service. Not only does Johnson serve as a member of Park’s Alumni Council, she is currently enrolled in Park’s Hauptmann School for Public Affairs and will graduate in December with a master’s degree in public affairs with a concentration in nonprofit and community services. With pride in Park’s quality reputation, Johnson dedicates her time and talents to the University. “Working with Park’s Alumni Council is very rewarding in building leadership skills and making friends,” she said. Johnson, who recently helped update the Alumni Council’s bylaws, also serves on the Awards Committee and helped facilitate Park’s Alumni Weekend. Johnson encourages alumni to get involved because she said that as you give, you receive. “As active alumni, our contributions advance the lives of Park students, and in turn, we strengthen our personal and professional potential.”

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CLASS NOTES Alumni 1950s In honor of Doris McClatchey Gerner, ’51, and her late husband, James Gerner, ’52, the Park Hill (Mo.) School District renamed its early childhood center the Park Hill Gerner Family Early Childhood Center.

The Gerners owned a farm on the property that now includes Park Hill High School, Congress Middle School, the childhood center and the district office. In addition, Doris served on Park Hill School Board from 1972-78.

Felipe E. Bustillo III, ’74, M.D., was appointed by Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback as a commissioner of the Kansas Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission.

He also has been appointed to the Health Occupations Credentialing Technical Committee. Bustillo is the co-founder and owner of Rural Physicians Research Alliance LLC, comprised of 17 practices conducting clinical trials in 14 clinics in Kansas.

Susan Kensett McGaughey, ’74, Rich McGaughey, ’73, and Becky Evans Montanino, ’75, traveled together to Italy last fall and shared their Park pride with the world.

Vernon C. Reeves, ’55, retired June 1 after 35 years as a manufacturer representative serving the industrial, construction, highway and safety markets in the Southeast. Vern and his wife, Bobbie Lu, live in Fayetteville, N.C. Mary Ann Offutt Leveton, x56, performs two nights per week playing and singing at a piano bar in Denver where she performs all types of music. She also plays private parties and conventions. She said, “It is a good life!”

1960s Beverly Reece Dame, ’67, retired after more than 50 years in the workforce, including time working in Park University’s mailroom and for the Department of Political Science. She and her husband, W. Page Dame III, will be spending most of their time in the eastern townships of Quebec.

1970s Barbara Inman Beall, x70, wrote Rebel from Back Creek: James Byron Dean (1931-1955).

Released in May, the book was published by Aventine Press.

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Francis Campbell, ’78, received two Presidential Volunteer Service Awards from the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Gold Level Award, recognizing 500 or more service hours in one year, was for his volunteer activities in 2011. The President’s Call to Service Award recognized Campbell’s lifetime accumulation of more than 10,000 volunteer hours. In addition, Campbell received the John Paul II Medal for Outstanding Service to the Knights of Columbus in May 2011.

1980s Jose R. Ruiz, ’83, Ph.D., is president of the University Aviation Association for 2012-13. He is a professor in the Department of Aviation Management and Flight at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale.

He also serves as the department’s airline flight operations internship coordinator.

Michele Hicks, ’89, earned a Doctor of Education with a concentration in Educational Leadership degree from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on June 9. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education.

1990s Ernie Lentz, ’92, M.P.A. ’04, is president of the National Water Safety Congress. The NWSC, headquartered in Mentor, Ohio, is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to promoting safe use of both private and public water resources in the U.S. Lentz is a geographic information systems program manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Coldwater, Miss.

James E. Davis, ’93, is director of business development at Grant Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio. Davis is charged with growing the hospital through expansion into new geographic areas, expanding clinical services and adding a new health center.

Ricky C. Godbolt, ’93, Ph.D., is the director of the Center of Trades and Energy Training at the College of Southern Maryland, La Plata. He represents CTET in the community, directs day-to-day operations of the center, develops courses and services that prepare students for the workforce and oversees instructors and staff.

Richard Wells, ’95, is dean of intelligence management programs, Henley-Putman University, Santa Clara, Calif.

Brig. Gen. Gregory Mason, M.P.A. ’96, is assistant adjunct general of the Missouri National Guard.

CLASS NOTES Mark Tarin, ’96, is a senior master sergeant at the 162nd Fighter Wing, Arizona Air National Guard, Tucson.

Virginia Ochoa, ’03, is an intake coordinator at CIMA Hospice, El Paso, Texas.

Gregory Walker, ’96, is professor of logistics at the Department of Defense’s Defense Acquisition University, Huntsville, Ala. Walker has earned the Demonstrated Master Logistician credential from the U. S. Army.

Alicia Stephens, ’03, is executive director of the Platte County (Mo.) Economic Development Council. She received her Certified Economic Developers certification from the International Economic Development Council in 2003.

Gregory Mills, M.P.A. ’97, was appointed by Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon to the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission. The POST Commission establishes the core curriculum and formulates definitions, rules and regulations for the administration of the POST program, as well as advises the Missouri Department of Public Safety director concerning duties as outlined by statute. Mills is director of public safety and chief of police, as well as serving as interim city administrator, for Riverside, Mo.

2000s Levi Young, ’01, M.D., completed his residency in integrated plastic surgery at the University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kan. He is now a member of the staff of Saint Luke’s Health System, Kansas City, Mo., specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He practices at Saint Luke’s flagship location near the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, and at St. Luke’s South in Overland Park, Kan. Joe Luke, ’02, is the owner of the first guardNOW franchise in California.

Located in Modesto, the business provides security guard services for special events and non-traditional needs such as evictions, employment terminations and executive escorts.

Randy Thompson, ’03, is director of rehab programs at the West Florida Rehabilitation Institute, Pensacola. He is responsible for day-to-day operations, including staffing needs, patient quality care, operating /capital budgets and program development.

Ken Evans, ’04, M.P.A. ’08, is the chief of police in Live Oak, Texas.

Andy Suchanek, ’04, is the information technology manager at FW Warehousing, Sauget, Ill. FWW specializes in foodgrade warehousing, cold storage, general warehousing and hazardous material storage.

James Trumbly, ’05, is the co-founder and director of business development for HMG Creative and eConnect Email in Austin, Texas. Both businesses service online businesses through electronic communications, creative design, marketing and strategic planning.

Jason Withington, ’07, was appointed

by Kansas City, Mo., Mayor Sly James to the University of Missouri Extension’s Clay County Extension Council. The organization oversees the programs and services provided by the university in the county.

Mel Bunting, ’08, is director of information technology for the City of Shawnee, Kan. Cameron Evans, ’08, is the first national chief technology officer of Microsoft Education. He was the keynote speaker for Coppin State University’s 8th annual Information Technology in Teaching and

Learning Conference in Baltimore. His topic was “The Connected Classroom: Unleashing the Power of Technology in Education.” Evans is responsible for shaping and executing Microsoft’s technology and national agenda in U.S. education.

His principle work focuses on strategic, sustainable reform for schools and universities across the nation. Evans is a member of Microsoft’s Education Leadership Team and is the national spokesperson for science, technology, engineering and mathematics education, school innovation and transformation.

Javier Centonzio, ’09, earned a juris doctorate degree from the Stetson University College of Law, Gulfport, Fla., as well as passed the Florida Bar Exam.

Alexandria John, ’09, is an attorney at the law offices of Dunn and Black PS, Spokane, Wash. She graduated from the Gonzaga University School of Law, also in Spokane.

Vaughn Price, ’09, earned a master’s degree in Christian ministry from Wayland Baptist University, Plainview, Texas, in April.

He is the director of Christian education at Lighthouse Church International in Tucson, Ariz. He was also recognized as the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Ariz.)

Desert Lightning Team Junior Civilian of the Quarter for April through June 2012.

2010s LaNita Price, ’10, earned a master’s degree in addiction counseling from Grand Canyon University in Arizona in May and was inducted into the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society. She is the director and lead counselor for the Healing Hearts Counseling Ministry of Lighthouse Church International, Tucson, Ariz.

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CLASS NOTES 2010s Dawna M. Cnota, ’11, is the command chief master sergeant for the 355th Fighter Wing at DavisMonthan Air Force Base, Ariz. She advises the installation commander on matters influencing the health, morale, welfare, readiness and effective utilization of more than 4,000 enlisted airmen.

Stan Dobbins, ’11, is assistant police chief for the City of Branson, Mo. Alexey Dorofeev, M.P.A. ’11, is a consultant at The World Bank, Washington, D.C. Sara Stiles, ’11, is vice president and client advisor at Bank of Kansas City. She is responsible for building and managing relationships with high net worth clients, placing an emphasis on their overall financial health and investment strategies.

Krista Bean, ’12, is store manager of the Park University Bookstore, a Barnes and Noble facility.

Norman Cannon, ’12, was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U. S. Army at Fort Bliss, Texas. He previously served as a sergeant in the 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, before being accepted into the Army’s Green to Gold program.

Submit your news for inclusion in Class Notes to the Office of Alumni Relations: alumnioffice@park.edu or Park University, 8700 N.W. River Park Drive, Parkville, MO 64152.

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Hauptmann School for Public Affairs Alumni Recognized At its awards dinner on May 15, the Greater Kansas City Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration recognized the following Park alumni: Erik Bergrud, M.P.A. ’94, Special Contributions to the Greater Kansas City Chapter Award; Debera Howell, M.P.A. ’12, Stanley Fisher Memorial Award; and Dennis R. Johnson, M.P.A. ’89, Public Administrator of the Year Award (Federal). In addition, the following Park alumni were elected to the 2012-13 ASPAKC Board: Emmett Morris, M.P.A. ’05, president; Howell, secretary; Alexa Barton, ’03, M.P.A. ’07, treasurer; and Kourtney Woodbury, M.P.A. ’07, board member.

Weddings Jennifer Harrell, ’95, married Tim Buckholz on Aug. 25.

Ryan Shaw, ’04, and Danice Brown, M.A.T. ’06, were married Dec. 31, 2011.

Ryan is manager of Stone Canyon Pizza Co., in Parkville, Mo. Danice is employed by the Park Hill (Mo.) School District where she teaches eighth grade and is head dance coach at her school. The couple resides in Kansas City, Mo. Amanda DeVriese, ’07, married Ramon J. Sebilla on July 28 in Kansas City, Kan., where the couple resides.

Megan Donnell, ’07, married Derek Allen on June 23 in Cole Camp, Mo. Megan is a support services coordinator for the Platte County (Mo.) Board of Services.

Lauren Wilson, ’07, married Samuel Thiessen on Oct. 20. Lauren is employed by the Eudora (Kan.) School District. The couple resides in Baldwin City, Kan. Kenneth Howard, M.B.A. ’10, married Sarah Gildehaus on Sept. 8 in Dutzow, Mo. Kenneth is employed by State Street Corp., Kansas City, Mo. Taylor A. Hall, ’11, and Brooke E. Murphy, ’12, were married June 15 in Kansas City, Mo.

Births & Adoptions Nathan, ’03, and Colleen Scherman, ’09, are proud to announce the birth of their son, Levi Dean, born June 26, in Merriam, Kan. Levi weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces, and was 21 inches long at birth, with lots of dark hair. Levi was welcomed home by big sister, Emma, 3. Nathan is the technology procurement manager at Park University.

Jason Withington, ‘07, and Mia Guzman Withington, ‘09,, welcomed daughter Ainsley on Sept. 25, 2011.

Eric Gold, M.E. ’09, and Brandi Packer, welcomed son Dexter Anthony Gold on March 15.

Summer Jackson Purcell, ’09, and her husband, Mark, welcomed daughter Kara, to the family on Jan. 4. Kara was born at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

MOURNS 1930s

1970s

1990s

Wilhelmina Woestemeyer Morrow, ’37 Tucson, Ariz., Aug. 14

Roger Pendergast, ’70 Oklahoma City, Okla., July 14

Patrick W. Buckley, ’94 Solon, Iowa, Aug. 30

Harold J. Wheeler, ’38, M.D. New London, N.H., Sept. 4

James E. Calmes, ’74 Deer Park, Wash., July 17

Gloria N. Garcia, ’96 San Antonio, Texas, May 7

Eleanor Weld, ’39 Medford, N.J., Aug. 24

Don Holland, ’75 Tow, Texas, May 25

2000s

1940s

Cullen Phillips, ’75 Opelika, Ala., May 29

Waldo Y. Burger, ’42 St. Joseph, Mo., June 2 Kenneth Hickman, ’43 Grand Rapids, Minn., May 30 John R. Steele, ’43 St. Louis, Mo., April 10 Maxine Renner Logghe, ’45 Atlanta, Ga., Oct. 3

James M. Hubbs, ’76 Winter Springs, Fla., Oct. 12 Robert Maiden, ’76 Huntsville, Ala., July 19 Leland Keil, ’78 Galatia, Kan., May 29 Aaron Wallace, ’79 Tallahassee, Fla., June 26

Betty Mayne Vequist, ’46 Pittsburg, Kan., Oct. 15

1980s

Ruth Guestslaff Steger, ’49 Plainfield, Ill., Oct. 16

John D. Carpenter II, ’81 Shelby, N.C., May 24

1950s

Rose Freivogel, ’82 Waterloo, Ill., May 17

Loree “Pat” Dallam Breed, ’50 Englewood, Colo., July 14 Richard E. McFadin, ’50 Gallatin, Mo., May 19 William Alcorn, ’58 Victorville, Calif., July 16

1960s Thomas Mooney, ’67 Chula Vista, Calif., June 11 Kathryn Hinshaw Kuesterman, ’69 West Valley City, Utah, Aug. 16

Ana De La Pena- Cunningham, ’00 San Antonio, Texas, May 9 James Jordan, ’01 Fairborn, Ohio, Sept. 25

Park Faculty/Staff David McElwee Educational Technology Support Administrator Parkville, Mo., Sept. 25 Dimitri Karakitsos Associate Professor of Management (retired) Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 30

Schelby Leakey Holliday, ’83 Platte City, Mo., July 31 Patricia McCanless, ’83 Independence, Mo., Aug. 5 Jeffrey Goehrung, ’86 Kansas City, Mo., May 21 Robert L. Ketchum, ’86 Independence, Mo., May 28 Michael Landers, ’87 Portland, Ore., July 17

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alumni news Show your Park Pride with the Park University Visa Platinum Rewards Card Show your Park pride at the same time you reward yourself. The Park University Alumni Association is now offering its members a new credit card program. We searched until we found a program that offered our members special benefits. The Park University Visa Platinum Rewards card, available through UMB, offers members a very competitive interest rate and attractive rewards. In addition, the user gets to choose from one of five Park University designs. Go to www.park.edu/alumni/visa to learn more.

• Receive Visa Platinum benefits including online banking, auto rental, travel insurance and more!

• Earn redeemable rewards points by shopping at participating retailers.

• Have the security of fraud protection and 24/7 emergency customer service.

• Show your Park University support and pride by choosing one of our customized card designs (shown at right).

Since the Park University Alumni Association does the marketing, UMB rewards Park by sharing their savings. As you use your Park Visa, UMB pays Park a small percentage to be used in programs that benefit both students and alumni. Everybody wins with the new Park University Visa card.

Eligibility Restrictions: You are not eligible for this credit card if you are currently enrolled as a student at Park University.

BUY ALUMNI SWAG

PARK ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

ONLINE.

www.park.edu/alumni Fall 2012 - 44

alumni news Park University’s alumni mentoring program, Alumni Match, pairs Park students with Park alumni in similar fields to provide networking and learning opportunities. Interested alumni who want to offer their expertise, guidance and support to students must complete an alumni host application form. Students will be matched with alumni based on degree major and professional goals and interests.

Toni Madeira, ’88, helped launch the new program, working closely with the Office of Alumni Relations and the Office of Global Education and Study Abroad. Madeira has personally hosted more than a dozen students, inviting them to her office and out to dinner, while offering ongoing support via e-mail and phone. “We have so many successful alumni across the country who want to get involved in supporting Park students,” Madeira said. “This program is designed to grow across all campus centers across the country, bringing alumni and students together for invaluable mentoring and networking.” Visit www.park.edu/alumni/mentoring to learn more about Alumni Match.

REFER A STUDENT As a Park alum, one of the most important ways to support your alma mater is to refer students. Recognizing this value, the Alumni Association has created a referral program. If you send the name and contact information of a new prospective student to the Office of Alumni Relations, we will send you a T-shirt when the student applies. If the student enrolls and completes at least one 3-hour class in any program at Park, we will send you a leather Park embossed portfolio. Please note that this offer only applies to students that have never been in touch with a Park admissions office.

Make your referral at www.park.edu/alumni/referastudent (Find your ID number above your name on the label of this magazine.)

Legacy Scholarship

If your referral is a relative of a Park graduate (spouse, sibling, child, grandchild, niece or nephew, including stepchildren) he/she is eligible to apply for the Alumni Association’s Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Scholarship, which was created for alumni by alumni.

Visit www.park.edu/alumni/mssf.asp for more information.

Visit www.park.edu/scholarship for more information about additional scholarships.

Alumni in Admissions

If you are currently a teacher, coach or counselor in a high school or community college and would like to assist in Park’s student recruiting efforts, please sign up as an “alumni recruiter” at www.park.edu/alumni/recruiter.

We will send you admissions materials about the various programs at Park, an alumni T-shirt to wear on casual Fridays and a pennant to display in your office. An admissions staff member will be in touch to assist with your efforts and answer questions.

Lifelong Connections Park publishes a new alumni directory in partnership with Harris Connect LLC

Park University alumni are always on the move.

Whether it’s a job change, a move to a new city or simply a new e-mail address, the University does its best to keep up with you. That’s why the Park University Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Relations are working with Harris Connect to contact alumni and collect their stories.

Harris Connect is in the process of producing a beautiful hardcover publication, Park University Alumni Today, that will allow you to reconnect with old friends and expand your professional network.

Delivery date is projected for January 2013. Orders for the directory may be placed by calling Harris Connect customer service at (800) 877-6554.

Thank you for participating in this important project. In addition to keeping the communication links open between the University and its alumni, the information that is collected is used to support our academic programs. The Higher Learning Commission, Park’s regional accrediting body, is requiring more and more information about our graduates. We now must research and report on the employment and advanced degrees of our alumni after they graduate. The information Harris Connect collected helps Park maintain its accreditation and protect the value of the degrees earned by our current students and alumni.

If you did not update your alumni record through Harris Connect, you can still do so by logging onto PirateLink at www.park.edu/alumni. Use your Park ID number, found above your name on the label of this magazine, to create an account. Update your contact information and tell us what you have been doing since graduation. Share other interesting news and photos with your friends. At the same time you are supplying Park with the information needed, PirateLink gives you the option to choose what items you want to share with the alumni community. If you have questions or would like to provide updates by phone, please call the Office of Alumni Relations, (800) 488-PARK (7275).

Fall 2012 - 45

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Kansas City, Mo. Permit No. 6112

8700 N.W. River Park Drive Parkville, MO 64152 www.park.edu

Park Graduate Degree Programs

GRADUATE SCHOOL Park Offers A Wide Variety Of Academic Programs Online and On Campus.

Call us today at (888) 237-5388 or via e-mail at pssc@park.edu.

You can also visit us online at www.park.edu/pm

PA R K ’ S P RO M I S E :

• • • • • •

Master of Business Administration Master of Public Affairs Master of Education (five programs to choose from) Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership Master of Healthcare Leadership Master of Music Performance (piano and strings only)

Park Graduate Certificate Programs • • • • • • •

Business and Government Leadership Computer and Network Security Disaster and Emergency Management Healthcare/Health Services Management and Leadership Leadership of International Healthcare Organizations Nonprofit Leadership Music Performance (piano and strings only)

Serving ThoSe Who Serve Their CommuniTy and CounTry WiTh PerSonalized, globally-relevanT eduCaTion for life.