New technology set to transform health and science learning
RUNNING THROUGH BARRIERS
Demarico Young ’28 overcomes all odds
Perfect Storm Weekend
Simpson’s spectacular Homecoming celebration featured many memorable highlights. Students cranked up the volume for Yell Like Hell — and Dance Like Hell. The College honored outstanding alumni award winners and welcomed another impressive class of inductees for the Wall of Honor. And the Hillman parking lot was rocking with live music, kids’ activities and spirited tailgating. Storm football put the exclamation point on festivities with a convincing win over Dubuque.
Make plans to join us for Homecoming 2026 (Oct. 17)!
Greetings from Hillman Hall
Joining Simpson College this summer as interim president has been an honor. I recognize this is a tender time of transition as the entire Simpson community continues to mourn the tragic loss of President Byers. I am privileged to work closely with the Board of Trustees and college leadership as together we seek to build on the promising momentum Jay sparked during his presidency.
Having spent my 30-year career focused on the sustainability and success of private, regional, liberal arts colleges — most recently as president of Colby-Sawyer College in New Hampshire — Simpson’s mission resonates deeply with me. And, as a native of Minneapolis, it has been wonderful to return to the Midwest. The many remarkable people I have already met at Simpson have made me feel right at home.
The energy on campus this fall has been electric. We welcomed another strong class of first-year and transfer students to bring our total traditional undergraduate enrollment to 1,190, which is up slightly from Fall 2024. I have so enjoyed the chance to see our students compete in athletics, perform on the stage, provide leadership and service as Culver Fellows and contribute their many talents across campus. Watching our students excel academically has also been inspiring, as exemplified by their impressive presentations at the Fall Undergraduate and Research Activity Showcase. And, as featured in this edition of Simpson: The Magazine, we continue to take hands-on learning to the next level with the acquisition of cutting-edge technology that will benefit hundreds of students studying health sciences in game-changing ways.
Two exciting capital projects will also be completed in the next year. Thanks to the generosity of our faithful supporters, a $10 million endeavor to renovate the dining hall and Great Hall is now underway and will be finished in time for students returning in August 2026.
There is also great anticipation for the completion of our new, donorfunded gymnastics venue set to open in January 2026. Located near the softball fields, the facility will enable our rapidly growing gymnastics team to have a dedicated space for practice and competitions.
One of the most fulfilling moments from my first semester at Simpson was the chance to celebrate Homecoming 2025 with many of you. It was so much fun to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Storm spirit at all our events. I especially enjoyed the President’s Society Red and Gold Gala, which gave us an opportunity to honor and thank our leadership donors and so many of you who contribute to Simpson College. Gifts of all sizes have a direct and meaningful impact on our students, and we appreciate your generosity and engagement.
In the weeks and months ahead, I look forward to meeting more members of our alumni family. I am eager to hear your Simpson story and to learn more about your passion in supporting this special College. This is a challenging time for higher education, and the College is facing those head-on. I believe Simpson has so many strengths, including your steadfast belief in our mission, and I am confident great opportunities lie ahead for the college. I’m excited to see what 2026 will bring.
For now, I wish you all the best for the holiday season!
Kind regards,
Sue Stuebner Interim President
Six Inducted into Honor Roll
This year’s Homecoming festivities included the addition of six new members into the “Honor Roll of the Names that Live at Simpson.” Established in 1986, and updated with new inductees every five years, the Honor Roll recognizes alumni, former faculty members, and friends of the College who have made a significant impact on Simpson and their communities.
Distinguished Alumni honorees included retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Gerry Berry ’67, who enjoyed a highly decorated career as a helicopter pilot. He is famously remembered for helping to rescue more than 7,000 Vietnamese and Americans from the American Embassy, including Ambassador Graham Martin, during the fall of Saigon in 1975. Berry’s remarkable 25-year military career included earning three Distinguished Flying Crosses.
The late Richard Cohen ’70, three-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, author, and producer was the other distinguished alumnus honored. Cohen’s storied career included roles with ABC News, CBS News, CNN and PBS. He also wrote a health column for the New York Times and authored several books on health issues, including his own 50-year battle with MS — the disease that claimed his life in December 2024.
Dr. Owen L. Duncan, Jr., professor emeritus of history, was honored as this year’s Distinguished Faculty member. A beloved teacher, mentor, and academic innovator, Duncan served Simpson for nearly four decades, shaping curriculum and the lives of generations of students.
The Honor Roll event also featured recognition of new Honored Benefactors, alumni and friends of the College whose total gifts of $1 million or more epitomize the transformational power of philanthropy. Honorees were Dennis and Hildreth Murphy ’32, Dr. Hal ’57 and Greta Stuart Bryan ’57, and Chuck and Joy Rohm.
Together, these honorees stand as a testament to Simpson’s enduring mission to cultivate a diverse community of learners who lead lives of meaning and purpose.
Join Us for a Danube River Cruise
Simpson alumni and friends are invited to be part of our next unforgettable travel experience through the Simpson Alumni Travel Program.
Set sail with us in May 2026 for an exciting Danube River cruise featuring an adventure through the Balkans on a gorgeous Avalon River Cruise ship. Spend a full week discovering the rich landscapes and cultural locales of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The trip embarks on May 24 in Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, and ends on May 31 near Bucharest, Romania.
Cabins are filling quickly and only a few spots remain — so act now. To obtain more information, including pricing and a detailed itinerary, contact Elyse Morris at elyse.morris@simpson.edu.
New Advancement Leadership Focused on Growing Momentum
The Simpson College Office of College Advancement team features familiar leaders transitioning into new key roles at the College. This fall, Assistant Vice President Chris Goodale ’86 succeeded Jared Bienemann’s successful leadership run to become interim vice president of College Advancement.
“My heart has always belonged to Simpson,” said Goodale. “I’m privileged to be part of such an impressive team of professionals dedicated to advancing the College’s mission. We have some truly exciting projects in motion. And I am convinced that the inspiring generosity of our many faithful benefactors is going to have a profound impact on enhancing the Simpson student experience in the months and years ahead.”
Elsewhere, Andy English ’05, recently returned to Simpson as executive director of development. He previously served as Simpson’s director of Alumni Relations for 10 years.
Meanwhile, Elyse MacDonald Morris ’11 has moved from her role as director of Stewardship to become the new director of Alumni Relations.
Celebration of 2025 Alumni Awards
Five outstanding graduates were recognized during Homecoming weekend with the presentation of Simpson’s 2025 Alumni Awards, recognizing leadership, service, and professional excellence.
Zachary Rus ’08 received the Alumni Achievement Award for his success in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Rus was recognized in the Des Moines Business Record’s “40 under 40” Class of 2025 for his work as engagement director at Ellipsis, a holistic provider of youth and family support services. In July 2025, Rus became the executive director of Iowa Safe Schools, which provides support and resources for LGBTQ youth, educators and administrators.
The Recent Alumni Achievement Award was presented to Robert Lyons ’17, who has excelled in his career and civic engagement endeavors at a pace and level that is uncommon for someone his age.
After graduating from Simpson with a degree in political science, Lyons studied public administration at American University. After serving on a pair of political campaigns, he held several roles with USDA Rural Development before moving into his current role as outreach manager for AARP Iowa.
Mark Miller ’79 received the Alumni Loyalty Award in recognition of his long-standing dedication to Simpson and his many years of active involvement with the College as an instructor, trustee, volunteer, and generous supporter. Miller held several important business leadership roles during an illustrious career spanning nearly 30 years with DuPont Pioneer. Today, he serves as a part-time strategic advisor for Peoples Company.
MacKenzie Bills ’16 received the Recent Alumni Loyalty Award, recognizing her ongoing deep connection to the College through volunteer service and continuing support of the Culver Center and its alumni programing. Bills has had an active career in politics during a wide-ranging career that has included key positions with the U.S. Department of State and USAID.
The Recent Alumni Humanitarian Award was presented to Ishaya David ’17, whose leadership and advocacy work have strengthened communities and improved countless lives in his home country of Nigeria through his nonprofit organization Dreams Alive, founded by his late brother. Also serving as a pharmacist for UnityPoint Health, David’s work with Dreams Alive provides a wide range of free medical outreach services and health education programs in areas of desperate need all across Nigeria.
If you know of an outstanding alum who should be considered for recognition at Homecoming 2026, use the QR code to submit a nomination.
Simpson Announces Pfeiffer Dining/Great Hall Renovation
The Simpson College Board of Trustees has approved the renovations of Pfeiffer Dining Hall and adjacently located Great Hall. The combined $10 million project got underway in November and will be completed in Fall 2026.
Interim President Sue Stuebner says the facilities will have a major impact on elevating the Simpson student experience, carrying forward a vital initiative established under the leadership of President Jay Byers, who passed away April 17.
“This project will provide tremendous value to the entire Simpson community while greatly strengthening our ability to recruit and retain students. We are building great momentum with facility enhancements across campus, as we continue to grow our investment in the Simpson student experience.”
The project calls for a complete transformation of the Pfeiffer and Great Hall building’s interior. The renovated dining hall will feature a new entrance and flow through the reimagined space, as well as fresh furnishings, flooring and décor. New lighting and windows will brighten the dining experience, while redesigned serving stations will offer a rich variety of expanded menu options. Finally, a new north side dining patio will offer rewarding views of campus and Buxton Park.
“I think the renovated space will not only promote more student activity and engagement in the dining hall, but also make Simpson more appealing to prospective students,” said Christian Romero ’27 “It’s a big step forward for student life and the overall sense of community on campus.”
Food Advisory Club member Reese Grimsley ’26 is especially pleased that the voices of ACES — Simpson’s disability advocacy club — were heard and valued in the renovation planning and design process.
“We had the chance to walk around Pfeiffer with one of the architects to discuss accessibility concerns,” said Grimsley. “She was receptive to all our feedback and was willing to consider things she hadn’t thought of. The idea that we are going to get a dining space where everyone will feel welcomed and included is super exciting to me.”
New Life for Great Hall
Great Hall will be restored with an innovative blend of historic and contemporary features designed to create a vibrant gathering space. Wooden ceiling beams and bay windows will be preserved, along with beautiful antique lighting. The integration of new lighting options and windows will create an inviting, open feel to the space.
Scan the QR code to learn more about supporting these projects
Gymnastics Facility Opening Soon
Construction of a 10,000 square foot gymnastics facility is nearing completion. Located on the north end of campus near the softball complex, the $2.8 million venue — fully funded by donors — will serve as the practice and competition facility for women’s and men’s gymnastics.
Plans also call for the return of stage space for hosting music recitals, small concerts and other special events. Moveable soft seating and small tables will also be added to provide students with another great space on campus for individual and collaborative study or just grabbing a snack and relaxing.
Former music faculty member and current Simpson Board of Trustees member Virginia Lauridsen has high hopes for renovated Great Hall to preserve the architectural character of the original design while bringing fresh vitality to the glorious space.
“I have so many fond memories of wonderful music in Great Hall — including the Madrigal dinners, as well as student and faculty recitals,” said Lauridsen. “I gave several recitals there with the late Dr. Robert Larsen at the keyboard. And I met my husband after one of those recitals, so the space has sentimental value for me. I still believe it has the best acoustics on campus. I look forward to attending events in the updated venue.”
Nearly 80 percent of the project is already funded through generous donor support. If you would like to help bring this project to fruition, please use the QR code (at left) to learn more or visit www.simpson.edu/alumni-giving/forging-the-future.
“This is a timely investment in response to the tremendous interest and growth of gymnastics at Simpson since launching our programs in 2022,” said Marty Bell, director of Athletics. “For starters, the new facility will relieve considerable pressure from high usage demands at Cowles Fieldhouse. And, most importantly, it will allow us to expand our current varsity rosters to include a club/junior varsity element, creating more opportunities for students while providing a significant boost to the College’s drive for strategic enrollment growth.”
Women’s head coach Emily Barrett Payne and men’s head coach Colin Payne are excited about what the new facility means for their respective programs.
“Our new facility will put us on an even playing field with all other NCAA Division III gymnastics programs,” said Emily. “We will have the ability to train fully on all our events and train safely with the addition of foam pits. It will be great to have such an energetic atmosphere for gymnastics.”
“The addition of this facility will enhance our programs in virtually every way,” added Colin. “In recruiting, we will be able to show that we have training facilities that are on par with most and better than some of our opponents. I’m excited to see how we can build these teams into serious players on the gymnastics landscape.”
Bell also stresses that external groups will have the opportunity to use the new gymnastics facility. Ultimately, he envisions that the venue will become a regional training center for gymnastics.
The state-of-the-art facility is expected to open in January 2026.
Simpson Joins Iowa NASA Space Grants Consortium
Simpson has gained acceptance into the Iowa NASA Space Grants Consortium. The consortium seeks to promote opportunities aligned with NASA's mission by stimulating research, education, and outreach programs for the state of Iowa.
“This is incredibly exciting news,” said Dr. Aswati Subramanian, associate professor of biology. “Simpson students and faculty across disciplines now have access to funding opportunities for research projects, as well as resources to develop curricula that support the development of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) skills, with a focus on improving student outcomes.”
Dr. Subramanian is currently mentoring Simpson biochemistry majors Brennan Voss ’27 and Brian Rollison ’27 as they work together on a space biology project. Their research is focused on how single-cell organisms are affected by simulated micro gravity and hyper gravity.
“It’s very exciting — something I never expected to do at Simpson,” said Voss. “I find it fascinating how microscopic organisms can help us understand huge questions about space travel. I’ve really enjoyed the problem-solving that comes with stepping outside my comfort zone to explore new areas of science.”
Brian Rollison ’27 (left) and Brennan Voss ’27 (right) are enjoying the thrill of doing space biology research sponsored by NASA.
Subramanian says other faculty and student researchers are also expressing interest in applying to the NASA Space Consortium for on-campus research grants. Consortium membership will also provide Simpson students the chance to have summer internships in NASA labs, as well as in other labs across the country that perform space research.
NetVUE Provides Professional Development Award
Simpson has received a $19,000 Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education (NetVUE) Professional Development Award. The award supports a new initiative that will integrate vocational discernment into first-year writing instruction through structured faculty training and curriculum development.
The initiative reflects Simpson’s ongoing commitment to meaningful, purpose-driven education and aims to equip faculty to help students — particularly first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students — explore identity, purpose and career pathways through reflective writing.
Symposium Stars
Students showcased their curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking at the Fall 2025 Undergraduate Research Symposium.
From lab research to literary analysis, students continue to gain hands-on insights as they excel in exploring and testing big ideas.
Led by Associate Dean of Curriculum and Assessment Dr. Kate Lerseth, the project leadership team guided six full-time faculty through a training program to design and teach new writing-intensive courses that integrate vocation-centered activities and assignments.
Other members of the Simpson leadership team include Dr. Jen McGovern, director of the Writing Center; Dr. Bradi Darrah, assistant professor of Education; and Melissa Daniels, instructional designer.
The initiative is financially supported by the Council of Independent Colleges and Lilly Endowment Inc.
ANN WAGNER
DIELEMAN ‘92
Executive Director and CEO
PIMA
PAIGE RIGGS
FIEDLER ‘87
Founding Partner
Fiedler Law Firm
JIMMY KENT
President of Grain Processing Corporation
KENT Corporation
LORI
SCHAEFER-WEATON
President
Agri-Industrial Plastics
Business Leaders, Prominent Attorney Join Board of Trustees
The Simpson College Board of Trustees has appointed four new board members. Newcomers include Ann Wagner Dieleman ’92, Paige Riggs Fiedler ’87, Jimmy Kent and Lori Schaefer-Weaton
Dieleman graduated from Simpson with a degree in management and communication studies and holds an MBA from Drake University. She has served as executive director and CEO of PIMA since 2018. PIMA is a member-driven trade association for insurance and financial services leaders in the affinity market, boasting more than 100 companies — including the largest brokerage firms and insurance carriers in the world.
Fiedler graduated from Simpson with a degree in business administration and management, before earning her J.D. from Drake University Law School. Since 2001, she has served as an employment law attorney for Fiedler Law Firm, which is well known in the Des Moines legal community and across Iowa and Nebraska. Her numerous honors and awards include being named to the Inner Circle of Advocates — the top 100 plaintiff attorneys in the U.S. — in 2024.
Kent is president of Grain Processing Corporation (GPC), a role he has held since 2021. GPC is a family-owned subsidiary of Kent Corporation, based in Muscatine, Iowa. Kent’s numerous ties to Simpson include his father, Gage, and late grandfather, James, serving as honorary trustees. The Kent family established the Kent-Stein Foundation Endowed Scholarship in 1990 and provided the lead gift for the Kent Campus Center constructed in 2012.
Schaefer-Weaton serves as president of Agri-Industrial Plastics in Fairfield, Iowa, a certified custom industrial blow molder of largescale parts used in a wide variety of industries. Her many honors include the STEP Ahead Award from the National Association of Manufacturers. She also serves on numerous boards including the Iowa ABI Board and the Elevate Iowa Advisory Board. Weaton’s grandmother, Florence Smith, attended Simpson in 1930 and her legacy was honored with the establishment of the Kenneth and Florence Weir Smith Endowed Scholarship in 2012.
Simpson Shines in National Rankings
Simpson College is once again Iowa’s top-ranked college and #5 overall in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report Regional Midwest Rankings. Simpson is also #4 overall for “Best Value” and #12 overall for “Top Performers in Social Mobility,” which recognizes Simpson’s impressive track record in enrolling and graduating economically disadvantaged students.
Also this year, Simpson was one of only two private Iowa colleges to earn 4.5 out of 5 stars in Money’s 2025 ratings* of “Best Colleges in America.” Additionally, Simpson is #25 nationally in Washington Monthly’s 2025 Bachelor’s Colleges rankings.
Bell Retires from Athletics
Director of Athletics Marty Bell has announced his decision to retire from his position, effective Dec. 31, 2025. After dedicating 40 years of his professional life to intercollegiate athletics achieving success as a coach and as an administrator, Bell says the timing to retire from this role feels right. At this stage, he is looking forward to exploring other paths that may be a fit for his talents.
“I am so thankful for the opportunities Simpson College has given me these last five years,” said Bell. “It has truly been a privilege to work with such an impressive team of coaches and professional staff. What we have accomplished together is remarkable — I am so proud of everyone in our athletics family.”
Under Bell’s leadership, Simpson has benefited from strategic program growth and considerable facilities upgrades. He served as the driving force behind the installation of new turf and track at Buxton Stadium, new infield turf for softball and baseball, refreshed tennis courts and a new gymnastics facility set to open in January. Bell also championed numerous enhancements in Cowles Fieldhouse including a new wood playing court, bleacher upgrades, new offices, locker room renovations and a concession stand.
Simpson Online Launches New Programs
Simpson Online has added two majors and one minor to its suite of programs. New majors in global management and interactive media are now being offered, along with a minor in human resources.
The global management major explores a comprehensive business curriculum focused on management and introduces the elements of global education. The interactive media major provides a foundation in computer programming and web development combined with graphic design and communication studies.
The human resources minor examines human resources management, workplace economics, and communication skills. The minor is often paired with majors in business or human services.
For more information about Simpson Online, including program details and how to apply, please visit Simpson.edu/simpson-online.
“Marty elevated Storm athletics and the overall experience for our student-athletes,” said Interim President Sue Stuebner. “Thanks to his vast expertise and his vision, Marty made meaningful improvements to the athletics department that will have a lasting impact.”
A national search to secure Bell’s successor is underway.
Beckmann Presents World Food Prize Laureate Lecture
The Rev. David Beckmann discussed “Faith and the Politics of Poverty in a Difficult Time” during his World Food Prize Lecture at Simpson, an event presented by the John C. Culver Public Policy Center and the World Food Prize Foundation.
Honored as the World Food Prize Laureate in 2010, Rev. Beckmann is hailed as the foremost U.S. advocate for people struggling with poverty and hunger. The former longtime World Bank economist who also served nearly 30 years as president of Bread for the World, has built a network of 3,000 churches and two million people working to serving those in greatest need.
"The event gave students the opportunity to engage in a critical global concern as they prepare to become leaders in defending the inherent dignity and worth of all human beings,” said Dr. Tim Luttermoser, assistant professor of biology and environmental science at Simpson.
REMEMBERING
MATTHEW LAU
1958 – 2025
Simpson continues to mourn the loss of Associate Professor of Music Matthew Lau, who passed away on Sept. 18 due to natural causes at the age of 67.
Lau joined the Simpson faculty in 2011 as a visiting instructor in the music department. In 2013, he became a full-time faculty member teaching courses, giving lessons, advising students, assisting with recitals and productions, and leaving an enduring mark on the college community. Simpson’s TRIO program named him Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 2017.
Lau was deeply admired by his faculty colleagues, as well as the many students and alumni he mentored.
“Professor Lau was a friendly presence in our department that we will all miss,” said Dr. Jon Arnold, Simpson’s director of Choral Studies and assistant professor of music. “Many students have spoken about his ability to make them feel understood and appreciated as people and musicians. He clearly cared about them and exemplified the student-centered approach we profess at Simpson.”
Several of Lau’s former students paid tribute to him by performing and offering emotional testimonials during his memorial service at Smith Chapel. praised Lau for always putting students first and teaching her life-shaping lessons that carried well beyond weekly voice lessons.
“He was an amazing teacher — not only in music, but also in life,” said Richter. “He taught me how to be open to new things, to own my mistakes, to understand what it means to be professional and how to find the meaning in making music... He gave the best performance of his life just by being here and making the world a better place.
In addition to Lau’s work at Simpson, he was an active contributor to Des Moines Metro Opera and other operas for more than two decades, sharing his gifts through directing, costume design, and performance.
Lau enjoyed an illustrious on-stage career that took him to opera companies all across the country. His many prestigious honors included earning two Grammy Awards in 2012 for his performance of Rev. Baines in Robert Aldridge’s operatic setting of Elmer Gantry on Naxos Records.
His voice was a gift that kept on giving. Jennifer Ross Nostrala ’85, director of Simpson Productions and professor of theatre, recalls how Lau stepped up to lend his talents to the College’s production of Into the Woods in 2023.
“I believe that production may have been Matthew’s last public performance,” said Nostrala. “Those of us who worked on the show, and definitely the audience members, were lucky to have the opportunity to hear his beautiful voice.”
Most of all, Nostrala remembers the profound impact Lau had on so many students.
“I was able to observe his teaching on a couple of occasions, and I noticed how much he cared for the person who was in front of him: he listened to their needs as a human being as much as he listened to their voice.”
Alivia Eaton ’26 finds support and inspiration from faculty across disciplines
Each year, the Office of Marketing and Strategic Communication asks faculty to nominate stellar students who might be good candidates for illustrating the transformative power of a Simpson education. Professor of Biology Dr. Jackie Brittingham identified Alivia Eaton as one such student.
When Eaton, who will graduate this spring with a degree in biology and education studies, was asked what she appreciated most about Dr. Brittingham, she had much praise to share. But Eaton didn’t stop there. Unprompted, she proceeded to call out 10 other faculty mentors who have also enriched her educational experience.
Eaton’s sentiments about these dedicated faculty members offer more compelling evidence of how Simpson faculty are personally invested in seeing their students succeed.
“Office doors are always open, and professors are always willing to offer opportunities to further student engagement and understanding,” said Eaton. “They're always working to make their courses better and engage students more effectively. Not only am I a better scientist because of them, but I'm also a better educator — and a better person.”
Alivia Eaton is supported by many faculty mentors. Front row, left to right: Dr. Faithe Keomanivong, Dr. Jackie Brittingham (seated), Eaton (seated), Dr. Aswati Subramanian (standing) and Dr. Amy Doling (seated). Middle row, left to right: Dr. Lauren Points, Dr. Tim Luttermoser and Dr. Lindsay Ditzler. Back row, left to right: Dr. Derek Lyons, Dr. Ryan Rehmeier and Dr. Adam Brustkern.
The following is a snapshot of Eaton’s testimonials about the faculty playing a profound role in shaping her future — all in her own words.
Dr. Jackie Brittingham, Biology
“Dr. Brittingham is always in my corner when I need her. When I had her for my Foundations II class freshman year, she talked me through the process to get accommodations through SAS (Student Accessibility Services) that I can confidently say have made my success at Simpson possible…She also helped make sure that I not only knew that I’m capable of surviving and thriving in research, but she also offered me a research project with her to practice for my intended field of study. Doing research with her was an amazing experience.”
Dr. David Olsgaard, Physics (Retired)
“Despite knowing that I was taking physics solely for fulfilling my teaching endorsement requirement, Dr. Olsgaard never failed to support my engagement with the subject and provide avenues for me to connect the content back to my own discipline. Lo and behold, I’m now the acting president of the Physics and Engineering Club.”
Dr. Adam Brustkern, Chemistry
“Dr. Brustkern has helped me engage with the outdoors in a way I didn't feel confident doing when I first moved to campus. He even convinced me to get my fishing license (something my grandpa tried and failed to convince me to do for years). He fosters a greater Carver Science community with his role in the semesterly soup suppers. His impact makes Carver feel like home.”
Dr. Derek Lyons, Chemistry
“Dr. Lyons found ways to keep me — a person with scentsensitive migraines — actively engaged in an organic chemistry lab where every single activity was chemically changing one strong smell into another.”
Dr. Ryan Rehmeier, Biology
“My conversations with Dr. Rehmeier as a prospective student are what convinced me to come to Simpson with him as my advisor. For the last four years, I've had the chance to be his TA in introductory biology labs, and that's really helped me figure out where my career is headed after Simpson.”
Dr. Aswati Subramanian, Biology
“Dr. Subramanian was the first professor I visited during office hours, and she has never failed to check in with me since. She even convinced me to travel to India with her for May Term, which is without a doubt one of the best things I’ve done in my life.”
Dr. Lauren Points, Biology
“Dr. Points always engages students’ curiosity, and she’s never afraid to admit when she doesn’t know something off the top of her head. I have unending respect for her as an educator.”
Dr. Amy Doling, Biology
“Dr. Doling made me, someone interested in ecology, to enjoy microbiology enough to take (and enjoy) immunology. She never fails to provide real-world connections and applications. And working as her TA was an amazing experience.”
Dr. Faithe Keomanivong, Chemistry
“Dr. Keomanivong is so passionately dedicated to making her classes the best they can be. And I know that if I ever need a place to be, her office door is open.”
Dr. Tim Luttermoser, Biology
“Dr. Luttermoser is my number one supporter. Anytime I want advice or need help with anything, he’s always there. He keeps granola bars in his office because I told him my schedule was too tight for lunch on Mondays. I met him his very first day at Simpson as his TA and he’s quickly become a trusted mentor.”
Dr. Lindsay Ditzler, Chemistry
“I've never even had Dr. Ditzler in class, but she welcomes me with open arms. Walking around Carver, it is impossible to miss the crowds that gather outside her office to talk to her. She pushes students to be the best they can be and is always supportive when it matters most. Dr. Ditzler is the picture of everything I want to be in my future career.”
Leveraging Lessons Learned
As Eaton prepares for graduate school with aspirations of becoming a college professor herself, she’s grateful for all the faculty who have shaped her journey. Reflecting on lessons learned along the way, she says she would love to go back in time and give “freshman Alivia” some empowering advice.
“Don’t be afraid to struggle,” said Eaton. “There is no shame in needing help. In fact, it is from struggling, needing help, and crying in professors' offices that I've reached my deepest levels of understanding, built the strongest relationships, and pushed the bounds of my own ability the furthest. Push yourself and let your professors push with you. Simpson is what you make of it, never be afraid to make it more.”
Technology Transforms Health Sciences
For the last 40 years, Simpson has enjoyed the rare distinction of offering a human cadaver lab experience for upper-class students studying anatomy. That unique privilege has been pivotal in preparing students to compete for top graduate school placements enroute to rewarding careers in a wide variety of healthcare professions. Now interactive technology has arrived that promises to take such learning to new heights.
Thanks to a $135,000 grant from the Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust, Simpson has acquired an 84-inch, life-sized Anatomage virtual dissection table and 14 touchscreen tablets that will open exciting avenues in dynamically interactive learning.
The new technology will benefit more than 600 Simpson students across a variety of health-related programs, including biology, health
Interactive learning is coming to life in new ways at Simpson with the arrival of the Anatomage Table (AT), a 3D anatomy visualization and virtual dissection tool for studying anatomy and physiology.
and exercise science, neuroscience, psychology, forensic science and biochemistry. It will also serve students pursuing pre-professional tracks such as pre-medicine, pre-physical therapy and other allied health fields.
Learning Tool Like No Other
The Anatomage Table (AT) — a leading-edge platform for threedimensional, virtual dissection — will supplement Simpson’s current cadaver lab and 3D modeling tools. The AT greatly enhances anatomy study while making it possible to perform all kinds of intricate virtual dissections by providing a remarkably comprehensive and detailed view of the entire human body — including individual cells, nerve networks, muscle structures and organ systems.
Dr. Lauren Points, assistant professor of biology, says the AT will provide an invaluable “pre-lab” dissection experience for students that better prepares them for what they will encounter in the physical cadaver lab.
“To this point, we’ve been using pre-lab videos to help students prepare,” said Points. “But it was difficult to get a camera in [the cadaver] to help students visualize what they’re supposed to be seeing. And that can be frustrating, because once you dissect something from a cadaver, it’s dissected — you can’t go back and do it again. The AT will make it much easier for students to know what they’re looking for ahead of time and perform more effective dissections.”
Biochemistry major Payton Seo ’26 agrees that the AT will help eliminate the confusion and guesswork that sometimes happens when you’re working in the anatomy lab.
“When you get to a ton of muscles, it’s hard to know if you’re right or wrong [about which muscles are which] if you don’t have somebody there with you,” said Seo. “The Anatomage Table has all the muscles labeled and you can tap them to see where they are so you can make sure you’re memorizing the correct things in the correct form.”
“I think [the AT] will be helpful not only for memorization, but also for learning movements and functions,” added Corteney Louis ’26 “Being able to visualize what those things look like on an actual cadaver before you make an incision in the lab will be really helpful.”
Virtual Versatility
Beyond its many obvious applications in human anatomy courses, the AT is designed to be leveraged for a multitude of purposes across disciplines.
“You can use it in physiology courses, for example, to see how ECG readings are affected during a heart attack,” said Dr. Faithe Keomanivong, assistant professor of biology. “You can also conduct different experiments in physics and chemistry. And in my comparative anatomy course, we’ll be able to use it to dissect different animals. It’s really going to help a wide variety of students.”
Students say they are especially excited to use the tablets, which replicate AT content to allow real-time engagement with labs and lectures. Most of all, the tablets’ portability will make collaborative work and solo study equally impactful and convenient.
“The tablets are going to be very helpful in both class and the lab — and just studying alone,” said Seo. “There’s only so many people you can fit around the AT or around a cadaver at one time. So, having 14 tablets to share in small groups or on your own will be very beneficial in getting the content repetition you need.”
Elevating Academic Performance
Points says multiple studies confirm that using the AT, tablets and physical cadaver lab in tandem plays a huge role in raising academic performance and helps significantly in preparing students for the rigors of graduate school.
“I’m going to have to do more cadaver labs in grad school,” said Savana Walls ’26. “It’s very important to me that going into that I know what I’m doing because I’ve had that experience here. I’ll just be much more comfortable.”
SURGICAL INNOVATOR
Dr. Tabitha Ireland Galloway ’06 Makes Her Mark in Medicine
Dr. Galloway is impacting lives on the leading edge of medicine. As an ENT physician at the University of Missouri’s Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, Galloway specializes in the surgical treatment of patients with a wide range of head and neck cancers. She is one of only 200 surgeons nationwide with a focused practice designation in complex adult thyroid and parathyroid surgery.
“I treat cancers from the collarbones up,” said Galloway. “That includes everything from surgical intervention for nose and throat cancers, skin and melanoma advanced tumors and thyroid cancer to performing endocrine surgery and treating salivary gland disorders.”
Pursuing Medical Miracles
Some of Galloway’s most innovative work has focused on highly complex “free tissue transfer reconstructions” of a patient’s head and/ or neck. The micro-vascular procedures involve transplanting various body parts to the head and neck to rebuild defects after cancer treatments, trauma or other causes. The results are often miraculous, saving a patient’s life while also largely preserving their way of living.
“I can reflect on a handful of patients who I honestly felt like might have been given up on somewhere else,” said Galloway. “They had stage IV cancers requiring large surgical procedures.”
One of Galloway’s most complex cases featured a man suffering from a rare form of cancer in his sinus cavity. While another surgeon worked to remove the tumor, Galloway reconstructed the patient’s face using bone and tissue from his lower leg. The surgery was a huge success and follow-up treatments kept the patient cancer-free while he regained his normal speaking voice and ability to swallow, as well as full flexibility and strength in his leg.
“Being able to take someone through that process to the other side where they’re interacting with people and they’re back in their lives is rewarding. Getting to those five-year (cancer-free) visits with those patients is special. Some of them still come back once a year just to give me a hug and update me on their lives — that’s really cool.”
Of course, Galloway is also quick to acknowledge the pain and heartache that comes with difficult outcomes.
“Sometimes it’s hard to sleep because we don’t always win with cancer patients. Reframing your mindset to what defines a win can help. It might not be overall survival, but meaningful survival.”
Whatever her patients are facing or experiencing, Galloway says it’s vital for her to be right there with them — providing clear information and compassionate care for every step of the journey.
Dr. Galloway served as a clinical advisor for fellow Simpson alumna Dr. Maggie Long Wieser ’18 (left), playing a vital role in helping Wieser secure her highly competitive ENT residency at the University of Kentucky.
Specializing in ENT cancer surgery, Dr. Galloway is one of only 200 surgeons in the country who hold a focus practice designation in complex adult thyroid and parathyroid surgery.
“One thing I really pride myself on is being able to communicate with patients well. Speaking to people on a level where they are at while going through something scary is essential. I think a lot of my communication and interaction skills come from my liberal arts education at Simpson.”
Mentee Turned Mentor
Growing up in eastern Iowa with a strong Methodist faith, Galloway was drawn to Simpson’s Methodist roots — finding the perfect place to nurture her love for science. She especially enjoyed the chance to do cadaveric dissections in her human anatomy course.
“From that point, I knew I wanted to become a physician,” said Galloway. “Dr. [Jackie] Brittingham and Dr. [Amy] Doling were among my key cornerstone professors who really mentored and encouraged me to continue on the career trajectory towards medicine.”
Today, Galloway is mentoring tomorrow’s doctors as a member of the teaching faculty at the University of Missouri School of Medicine (MU School of Medicine). She works closely with her otolaryngology residents in clinic and surgical settings most every day, seeking to inspire the kind of enthusiastic inquiry and development of problem-solving skills she first honed at Simpson.
Along the way, she’s had the chance to mentor several Simpson graduates attending the MU School of Medicine, including Dr. Maggie Long Wieser ’18. Wieser is now following Galloway’s career footsteps as a fourth-year otolaryngology resident at the University of Kentucky.
“Dr. Galloway is a big reason that I decided to specialize in ENT,” said Wieser. “I first worked with her in the OR as an early third-year medical student. As a medical student, attending physicians — especially surgeons — can be intimidating, but Dr. Galloway was always approachable and open to teaching. She became my clinical advisor, and I attribute a lot of my success of matching into ENT to her.”
All-Consuming Calling
When Galloway isn’t mentoring the next generation of doctors or doing cutting-edge surgery, she’s fully immersed in other cancer fight endeavors. As chair for the Commission on Cancer at the Ellis Fischel Cancer Center, she seeks to ensure exceptional cancer care across Missouri.
Galloway also serves as a principal investigator in several clinical trial studies that she hopes will ultimately help produce enhancements in quantity and quality of life outcomes for cancer patients.
“There’s a lot I could be doing within my specialty, but being on the oncologic side of things is the best fit for me to make meaningful connections with my patients. This is my niche and my calling.”
ALL IN THE FAMILY
Father-Son Doctors
Share Passion for Emergency Medicine
When Dr. Kam Hartung ’19 was growing up, he says his mom and dad were like superheroes to him. And, indeed his dad, Dr. Jeff Hartung ’92, has spent the last 25 years helping to save lives as an emergency room physician. Kam is now following in his father’s footsteps as a third-year resident at University Health in Kansas City.
Having the chance in high school to shadow his dad working at the hospital played an inspiring role in shaping Kam’s comparable career path.
“One day we ran into a patient walking down the hall who stopped and talked with my dad for a long time,” recalled Kam. “Afterwards, my dad told me he had treated the man for a dire medical emergency in the ER quite some time ago. From that one chance encounter, they had become friends. I thought that was pretty cool.”
Strong Simpson Roots
Jeff’s decision to begin his academic journey at Simpson was influenced by a rich history of family ties to the College. His father, John V. Hartung, served as Simpson’s vice president of Development and College Relations from 1978 to 1984. Additionally, Jeff’s siblings — Jill Hartung ’87 and J.D. Hartung ’89 — paved the way for him at Simpson, where he thrived in and out of the classroom.
“I really enjoyed the professors in the biology department at Simpson,” said Jeff. “I always felt like their doors were open. And I made a lot of lifelong friends while getting the chance to play football for four years.”
Jeff practiced medicine in Pella for more than 20 years before his 2023 transition to Iowa Specialty Hospital in northern Iowa. He says he enjoys the pace and variety of emergency medicine, as well as the flexibility it provides in working around his family’s schedules.
“I also saw lots of specialties where physicians couldn’t really put their work away when they went home,” said Jeff. “And in emergency medicine, it’s a little different that way.”
Practicing emergency medicine in rural Iowa is different than what Kam experiences in downtown Kansas City.
“There’s an astounding amount of poverty and medical need here,” said Kam. “What I really enjoy about working in emergency medicine is that there are no hoops for patients to jump through to be seen and evaluated. We see everybody from all walks of life and don’t turn anyone away.”
Inseparable Bond
Watching Kam come into his own and excel is a source of great joy for Jeff.
“Kam is very motivated and driven,” said Jeff. “He works hard at whatever he chooses as his passion. I’m obviously very proud of him…Sometimes my wife gives us a hard time because we start talking shop and she has to get us re-focused on the conversation she was having with us.”
Kam calls on his dad often to compare notes and simply to lean on his wisdom and understanding.
“My dad has been a role model for me well before I knew or thought about what I was going to do in life,” said Kam. “He’s just someone that a lot of people in our community, including me, wanted to grow up to be like.”
Inspired by high school job shadowing experiences watching his dad, Dr. Jeff Hartung (left), demonstrate skill and integrity in emergency medicine, Dr. Kam Hartung (right) knew he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps.
ACCELERATING SUCCESS
Simpson-Mercy 3+1 Nursing Program Puts Kolbie Bass ’25 on Career Fast Track
Bass always knew she wanted to work with little kids, but becoming a pediatric nurse was not on her radar until her May Term experience at Simpson.
“I was at Mercy Hospital downtown [Des Moines] shadowing in labor and delivery,” said Bass, who studied health and exercise science at Simpson. “I got to do all the baby things and that’s where I realized I wanted to be a nurse. But I didn’t want to leave Simpson. Fortunately, it just happened that the 3+1 [nursing] program came out in perfect timing.”
In 2022, Simpson College and Mercy College of Health Sciences announced an affiliation that allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree in health and exercise science or biology from Simpson and a bachelor’s in nursing from Mercy College in just four years.
Bass jumped on the opportunity and graduated with her two degrees last spring. In October, the newly minted RN began her residency program as a pediatric ICU nurse at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines. It’s a specialty she fell in love with during her preceptorship at Mercy Children’s Hospital.
“Once I had my preceptorship, I knew immediately that this is what I wanted to do,” said Bass. “It opened my eyes to how lots of children are suffering. I got to go in and help these children and their families. It’s rewarding just feeling like you’re making an impact — not just with medical care, but building relationships with them, too.”
Perfect Preparation
Bass is grateful to begin her career as an RN, largely crediting Simpson faculty for creating such a smooth transition to her studies at Mercy College.
“I told all my Simpson professors that they prepared me so well. I felt really confident in everything they had taught me. Having so
As she begins her rewarding career as an RN, Kolbie Bass says earning two degrees through the Simpson-Mercy 3+1 nursing program was more than worth it. “I 1,000 percent would relive every hardest day and do it all over again.”
much foundational knowledge was super helpful because the accelerated nursing program is intimidating when you first start.”
The 3+1 program provided the ideal package of opportunities for Bass. She was able to enjoy everything she loved at Simpson — serving as a teaching assistant for biology classes and the human cadaver lab, playing intramural sports, participating in FCA and so much more. And her accelerated RN degree from Mercy College opened the final doors to her dream career.
“I would tell students that want to do nursing, but don’t want to leave Simpson, that the 3+1 program is definitely worth it. I enjoyed my time so much at Simpson — I wouldn’t trade it for the world. And I would 1,000 percent relive every hardest day and do it all over again.”
UNSUNG HERO OF THE O.R.
Anesthesiologist Dr. Kristin Smith ’95 thrives in relative anonymity
Dr. Smith is most often the last person patients see or hear before their surgery begins. And she plays a critical role throughout every second of their procedures — maintaining sedation while being hyper vigilant in monitoring vitals and communicating with the surgical team to address any complications that emerge. But once the operations are over, patients are unlikely to remember Smith and know all she did to keep them safe.
“I remember in medical school being told that if you want to go into anesthesia, just know that no one is ever going to look at you and say, ‘There goes my doctor,’” said Smith. “So, I’m not in this for the acknowledgment. The reward I enjoy is knowing that I delivered a patient safely through the procedure and back to their family with a good outcome.”
Smith has provided critical surgical care as a general anesthesiologist for the last 22 years at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, Calif. She’s been in the O.R. for virtually every type of surgery under the California sun.
“The best part of my work is being able to apply all the subjects — pharmacology, physiology and physics — that first sparked my passion for medicine,” said Smith. “If I see a problem, I fix it. If a patient’s blood pressure is too high, I administer a medication and three minutes later it’s better. There’s a lot of immediate gratification in what I do.”
When she’s not in the operating room, Smith fills a variety of administrative leadership roles at the hospital. As director of OB Anesthesia, she recently helped Hoag hospitals earn redesignation as a Center of Excellence by the Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology (SOAP).
“We have to prove we meet or exceed many quality metrics,” said Smith. “More than just following the right practices, though, we’ve been able to demonstrate that we actually produce top patient outcomes.”
Tragic Beginning Inspires Life of Impact
Smith’s personal commitment to excellence and professional calling into medicine is born of tragic circumstances. Her parents were killed by a drunk driver in a car accident when she was just two years old. She was fortunate to be raised by extended family members, eventually moving from Pleasantville to Indianola in second grade.
“I think what drove me to become a physician was losing my parents at such a young age,” said Smith. “I didn’t have anything left of them other than the trust fund they provided. I wanted to make their death meaningful by doing something with that money that nobody could ever take away. I felt like getting an education to impact the world in a positive way was the best thing I could do.”
Smith says her professional success wouldn’t be possible without her husband, Spencer, who has played a vital role in helping her balance work and family demands as they enjoy life with their twin daughters.
Initially, looking to “spread her wings,” Smith attended Northwestern University in Chicago. But just one semester into her freshman year, she transferred to Simpson, where she says she flourished under the guidance of several legendary faculty including Dr. Joe Moody (biology) and Dr. Pat Singer (biology), Dr. Cliff Meints (chemistry) and Dr. Rick Spellerberg (math).
Simpson Opens the World
Simpson opened Smith’s eyes to a whole new world of possibilities during May Term abroad adventures in Greece and Central America.
“Those provided intimate experiences that helped me realize that people are just people everywhere you go,” said Smith. “My trip to Guatemala and El Salvador is what really stirred my heart to do something medical to help those in impoverished conditions.”
Medical school afforded such opportunities. Smith did a medicine rotation on the South Pacific Island of Vanuatu and later was part of medical missions to India and Haiti.
Creating Her Legacy
These days, Smith is working hard to balance the many demands of her profession with family priorities. She and her husband, Spencer, are enjoying life raising their twin 14-year-old daughters while encouraging them to develop a heart for serving others. To that end, Smith and her daughters are engaged in a wide variety of differencemaking endeavors as members of the National Charity League, which provides abundant opportunities for mothers and daughters to take part in community-based activism.
Smith says Simpson is largely responsible for inspiring her commitment to serving causes more important than her own ambitions.
“Simpson helped set the foundation for what I wanted my life to become. It set me on the right path to pursue what I value in life, which is community and service — and just being a good person, which is what Simpson is all about.”
Since 2003, Dr. Smith has practiced general anesthesiology at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, Calif., where she also serves as the director of obstetrical anesthesiology.
"YOU GOTTA GIVE IT A TRY"
Dr. Jenni Stumpf Spaulding ’12 is ready to tackle any challenge in vet medicine
The fact that Dr. Stumpf became a veterinarian surprised no one in her family. Her love for animals and passion for problem solving have defined her since the very beginning.
“I have wanted to be a vet since I was two years old — or so my parents tell me,” said Stumpf. “I grew up going to my family’s farm a lot, where I was kind of known as the cat tamer. I would catch the barn cats and give them their meds. So, loving animals and wanting to help people, becoming a veterinarian just brought it all together.”
In many ways, Stumpf’s circle of life story began at Simpson College. During her time here she got an internship at the Indianola Veterinary Clinic and worked there four years, including every summer while attending Simpson.
Then, a week after earning her DVM from Iowa State, Stumpf returned to the Indianola Vet Clinic as an associate. By 2019, she became a partner and today she is co-owner of the practice.
Every Case is So Different
The problem-solving skills she honed at ISU and Simpson have given her the confidence to meet constantly changing challenges.
“We treat patients who can’t tell us what’s wrong or what they did,” said Stumpf. “And we treat several different species. I might go from treating a 2,000-pound bull to a two-pound kitten in the same hour. And we have to handle every case differently because of financial constraints.”
Her work involves going through a rollercoaster of emotions with her patients and their owners. Sometimes treatments work, sometimes they don’t — or sometimes people can’t afford treatments. Stumpf approaches everything with a positive attitude.
Recently, for example, a dog came in with a large mass that Stumpf and her team felt insufficiently equipped to treat, so they sent the case to Iowa State. Unfortunately, the cost of treatment was going to approach $10,000. The owner couldn’t pay that much and was prepared to put the dog down. But Stumpf and her team intervened to try a modified procedure for less than $1,000.
“I said, ‘This pet is either going to be euthanized or we’re going to try to save it.’ We just did surgery the other week and the dog’s doing great. So, I think you need a motto in veterinary medicine of ‘you just gotta give it a try.’”
Embracing Community and Can-Do Spirit
Stumpf’s fervent desire to help people was fueled largely by her time at Simpson.
“Simpson does a good job of encouraging you to be part of a community,” said Stumpf. “And I think that’s a huge part of veterinary medicine. My goal is for everyone we hire here to know they’re not just part of the veterinary community, but also Indianola and every person that walks through our doors.”
Stumpf and her husband, Matt Spaulding ’11, remain faithful members and supporters of the Simpson community. The former Storm varsity golfers enthusiastically give back to the program, helping to purchase equipment and even starting an endowment fund to support the team.
“We just hosted a little get together at our house for the team,” said Stumpf. “It was fun meeting the students and showing them that after Simpson you can still give back and be part of that community.”
Stumpf also hopes that Simpson students will carry a never give up attitude in their career quests, just as she does in her veterinary practice.
“I think everything goes back to just being a hard worker and having a growth mindset. There’s never been a day where I felt like any of my failures were because I didn’t try hard enough. And I think that’s a big part of why I’ve had a successful career — I just keep going and keep at it.”
Becoming a vet was a predictable destiny for Dr. Stumpf, who was known as the “cat tamer” growing up for her ability to catch barn cats and give them their meds.
KINDER CARE
Pediatrician Dr. Aaron Waggie ’00 is all about helping kids thrive
In high school, Dr. Waggie watched his mother suffer from, and ultimately succumb to, breast cancer. That painful experience dramatically changed his life, including the trajectory of his career aspirations.
“My mom was my inspiration,” said Waggie. “When you have someone who is sick like that, you see the good and bad sides of medicine. I wanted to be one of those better doctors who really cared for people and looked at patients as whole persons.”
Dr. Waggie says kids make the best patients. “They’re fun and interesting to talk to — and we can help them be healthy their whole lives.”
Leveraging Opportunities
Waggie’s pursuit of a career in medicine began at Simpson, where he excelled in his science studies. He says the chance to study abroad in Zimbabwe and Eastern Europe, and to engage in numerous volunteer opportunities at Simpson instilled him with a strong sense of community and purpose.
“Those experiences built a foundation of caring for others. They showed me that even though we are all different, we need to take care of everyone.”
After graduating from Simpson, Waggie earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Kansas City University Medical School. He then moved on to his residency at Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, where it didn’t take long for him to find his specialty calling.
“Once I did my first rotation at Children’s Mercy, I just knew pediatrics was for me. Kids get better — they’re fun — they’re interesting to talk to. We have the chance to help kids be healthy throughout their whole lives.”
Pediatrics with Purpose
Today, Waggie is a pediatric physician at the University of Missouri’s University Hospital in Columbia, Mo., and he also practices pediatrics at an urgent care clinic in Kansas City. Additionally, he serves as assistant professor of Pediatrics at the University of Missouri while working with med students as assistant clerkship director for Child Health.
Waggie says his work is about so much more than treating a patient’s physical wounds.
“As I tell my students a lot, as a pediatrician, you become a really important person in these kids and their family’s lives. Being able to help them through rough times just gives you the reward of knowing you made a situation better for them.”
Investing
in Tomorrow’s Doctors
Pursuing ways to help inspire and educate the next generation of doctors is of paramount importance to Waggie, who comes from a long line of educators in his family — including his parents and a twin sister who teaches in Indianola.
That’s why Waggie and his husband, who is also a pediatrician, are making a life-shaping investment in Simpson students through an endowed scholarship fund. The scholarship will provide financial assistance to an upper-class student majoring in biology or biochemistry as part of pre-medicine studies.
“Education is very, very important to us,” said Waggie. “So, anything we can do to help encourage people to have that opportunity is exciting and rewarding. Simpson gave me so much that it feels good to be able to help other students have the great experience I had, too.”
INVEST IN PROMISING FUTURES
RUNNING THROUGH
DEMARICO YOUNG ’28 OVERCOMES ALL ODDS
Late in the fourth quarter, Simpson was simply looking to run out the clock on an impressive Homecoming win over Dubuque. The Storm got much more. Young took the handoff, broke through a cluster of defenders and was off to the races. Eighty-four yards later Young reached the endzone for the longest touchdown of his career to seal a 27-7 victory.
“Once I’m out there, I don’t notice the crowd or anything else,” said Young. “When I get the ball, it’s just me — I don’t look back, and I don’t hear the tackles. I just run and know that I have to get to the endzone.”
Young experiences football differently than everyone else. He’s been deaf since contracting spinal meningitis as an infant. Since then, he’s been running through barrier after barrier to make his college and football dreams come true.
FINDING HIS STRIDE
“The support and resources that Simpson provides has really helped me excel. There were some early struggles, but with Coach [Reed Hoskins] supporting me and telling me I am a benefit to the team, it's helped build my confidence and grow not only as a person, but also as a player and team member. My teammates have been great. They've really adapted and are always willing to learn about sign language, deaf culture and me as they're willing to open up about themselves.”
Young’s star-studded career in track and football at North High School in Sioux City, Iowa, drew lots of recruiting attention — including from Iowa State. But Simpson provided the full package Young was looking for in a college experience.
Young led the A-R-C in rushing this season with 1,019 yards — averaging 102 yards per game on six yards per carry.
With assistance from Simpson’s Student Accessibility Services and his American Sign Language interpreter, Dawn Habhab
from
is getting the support he needs to pursue his academic goals.
“The first thing I was looking for was an academic system that is supportive and willing to engage with a deaf student,” said Young. “And Coach Hoskins was very open about my role on the team, telling me that I was a fit — and that was magic for me.”
Hoskins has seen Young produce lots of football magic over his first two seasons while establishing himself as one of the top running backs in the American Rivers Conference. Young was the A-R-C rushing champion this season with 1,019 yards —averaging 102 yards a game on six yards per carry.
“Demarico is very instinctual,” said Hoskins. “It’s kind of like his superpower. He can’t hear, but he sees and feels so well. He goes through the gap and tacklers come, but he just disappears and suddenly you see him six yards down the field.”
LEARNING CURVE ON AND OFF THE FIELD
Of course, what impresses Hoskins about Young goes well beyond his football talent. Hoskins says he’s learned a lot about Young — and himself — over the last two seasons as they’ve worked closely together with many others across campus to navigate the many dimensions of the Simpson educational experience.
“Starting out, it was a learning process for all of us,” said Hoskins. “We had to work through the accommodations piece and a lot of people on campus, much like me, had never been through this. There was so much we didn’t understand and things to address that you don't even think about.”
No one has played a more important role in Young’s transition to academic and football life at Simpson than his American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter Dawn Habhab. From the classroom to the field, Habhab and Young have been virtually inseparable since day one here.
Both during practices and on game days, Habhab is down on the sideline — often standing right next to Coach Hoskins to help with communication. Her previous experience helping the California School of the Deaf football team makes her conversant in football terminology, which has proven especially helpful.
“When I first got on the field freshman year, I was nervous,” said Young. “It was the first time for a deaf player to be starting in this conference, and I was inspired and humbled at the same time. I had a hard time remembering the plays, so Miss Dawn had to sign them in and explain them from the sideline.”
Habhab is also with Young in the classroom, where the learning environment can be especially complex for a deaf student.
“One of the challenges is taking notes,” said Young. “Because if I’m watching my interpreter, I can’t take notes at the same time. But we have team study table on Monday nights and some of my teammates are in the same classes as me. I also have tutoring, and the writing lab is definitely helpful.”
(second
left), Young
LIFE-CHANGING RELATIONSHIP
The unique bond Habhab and Young share dates to his early high school days. When they first met, Young was just 14 and struggling mightily. He and his mom, along with four siblings, had just moved to Nebraska from Louisiana, where he had been attending the Louisiana School for the Deaf.
Relocating from Nebraska to Sioux City, Iowa, things were rough. Young’s family was homeless and life at his new school was going poorly to say the least. His learning needs weren’t being met and his repeatedly expressed desires to play sports were not fulfilled. Deeply frustrated and failing in school, Young says he became detached and depressed as school administrators considered placing him into a self-contained special needs classroom.
That’s when Habhab arrived to intervene. She had been working in another part of the state when a colleague asked her to go check on Young, believing he wasn’t getting the support he needed and that Habhab could help get him on a better path.
“I introduced myself to him [Young] and told him that I knew he was from Louisiana and I had worked at Riverside [School for the Deaf]. Then after he shared his situation and his goals, I told him I would come work with him if I was a language match.”
Young’s hope renewed, he enthusiastically accepted Habhab’s offer, and the two have been working together ever since. He began to improve academically and finally got his chance to play sports, before his family was placed in Sioux City housing. The move resulted in his transfer to Sioux City North High School, where he continued to thrive, rewriting more than a few sports records along the way.
Young says his decision to attend Simpson was tied to whether Habhab would be willing to move to Indianola and continue to work with him. She and her husband selflessly agreed that she would do so — opening a world of possibilities for Young.
MAXIMIZING OPPORTUNITIES
Inspired by meeting retired Iowa Senator Tom Harkin, who sponsored the American with Disabilities Act, Young is pursuing pre-law studies at Simpson.
“Because of all the civil rights violations and struggles that I've faced, I want to become a lawyer to represent people like me,” said Young. “And I know if I get a great education that I can do that.”
He also has hopes of making it to the NFL or XFL one day, and he’s excited to grow his Demarico Young Athletic Readiness Foundation, which he started a few years ago to help provide athletic gear for youth in his home community.
For now, Young is focused on the great opportunities in front of him — on and off the field at Simpson. As a first-generation college student, he embraces the burden and honor of being an example for his entire family. His college journey means the world not just to him, but especially to his mom.
“My mom has serious health issues, but she had the chance to come to her first game this season,” said Young. “When we were walking across campus together, she started to cry because her feet were touching the ground of a private college where her son is getting an education and playing football — a dream she never thought she would see.”
Marriages
Births / Adoptions
To submit accomplishments and updates to be included in future editions, visit simpson.edu/alumni/update
Emily Bell ‘21 and Joe McNally ’21 were married on August 10, 2024. The couple resides in Des Moines.
Carina Covington ‘23 and Colton Kinnison ‘23 were married on August 22, 2025. The couple resides in Waukee, Iowa.
Leopold VanderZaden, September 8, 2024, to Sarah Silk VanderZaden ‘11 and Bradley VanderZaden
Sullivan Williams, May 27, 2024, to Brian Williams ‘15 and Tricia Ingram Williams ‘15
In an effort to be better stewards of our resources, the Class Notes portion of Touring the Years is published electronically. We invite you to visit simpson.edu/classnotes to view the accomplishments of our alumni.
If you wish to receive a printed copy of Class Notes, please contact alumni.office@simpson.edu.
In Memoriam
Lois Rogers Godwin ‘48
August 26, 2025, Indianola, Iowa
Joseph Comp ‘50
August 23, 2025, Cedar City, Utah
Jo Ann McCoy Kent ‘50
August 22, 2025, Lutz, Florida
Jack Hakes ‘52
July 16, 2025, Palmdale, California
James Paul ‘52
August 8, 2025, Marshalltown, Iowa
Miriam Otterbach Bergman ‘53
June 10, 2025, Mount Vernon, Iowa
Keith Swanson ‘54
August 4, 2025, Atlantic, Iowa
Iola Nichols Weaver ‘54
March 30, 2025, Portage, Michigan
JoAnn Stark Eddy ‘55
September 7, 2025, Indianola, Iowa
Ken Johnson ‘58
June 19, 2025, Chandler, Arizona
Mary Lou Vawter Smith ‘58
May 23, 2025, Union City, California
Carole Sue Mofle Triplett ‘58
May 22, 2025, Ames, Iowa
Ann Kliewer Hegge ‘60
June 17, 2025, Rockton, Illinois
Wendy Tutt Fenster ‘61
September 30, 2025, Bellevue, Nebraska
Roxanne Caldwell Fee ‘63
September 10, 2025, Knoxville, Iowa
Robert Kentner Sr ‘63
September 19, 2025, Humeston, Iowa
Alys Jo McGowan Lawson ‘63
July 14, 2025, Bettendorf, Iowa
Dixie Lee Allen Ruble ‘63
October 7, 2025, Indianola, Iowa
Jerry Haldeman ‘65
May 6, 2025, Coralville, Iowa
Delbert Ashbacher ‘69
July 5, 2025, Urbandale, Iowa
Betty Regnier Moyer ‘69
May 15, 2025, Adams, Nebraska
Donald Smith ‘70
October 17, 2025, Urbandale, Iowa
Scyler Cherry ‘71
May 8, 2025, Des Moines, Iowa
Thomas Gillespie ‘72
September 7, 2025, Oskaloosa, Iowa
Carol Worlan Young ‘72
July 13, 2025, Des Moines, Iowa
Yvonne Cantrell Peterson ‘73
June 11, 2025, Henryville, Indiana
Ann Rupert ‘73
October 25, 2025, St. Louis, Missouri
Evelyn Nesbit Dentley ‘75
August 4, 2025, Memphis, Tennessee
Debra Rantanen Kem ‘75
July 27, 2025, Elkhorn, Nebraska
John Katich ‘78
July 16, 2025, Knoxville, Iowa
Mary Kay Loos Jensen ‘83
August 14, 2025, Blue Bell, Pennsylvania
Richard Hanson ‘84
June 13, 2025, West Des Moines, Iowa
Kathleen Dolan Schuster ‘86
May 21, 2025, Indianola, Iowa
Hazel ‘Bunny” Whittles Peck ‘92
August 30, 2025, Indianola, Iowa
Kelley Bell Bonnes ‘05
August 6, 2025, Indianola, Iowa
Erika Amfahr ‘10
June 30, 2025, Urbandale, Iowa
Daniel has a lively passion for performing and creating music, building on lessons learned at Simpson, where he studied voice with the late Matthew Lau and piano with composer Dr. Michael Patterson.
Cortez Daniel ’18 joyfully shares his many gifts
Spend a few minutes visiting with Cortez Daniel and you’ll be convinced that no one loves music — or life — more than he does. The multi-talented musician, educator and entrepreneur has a special passion for using music to transform young people’s lives — just as music did for him from the very beginning.
“I remember my first-grade teacher making sure everyone in the class learned the Star-Spangled Banner,” said Daniel, who grew up 20 minutes from Atlanta. “So, we were practicing it, and I just started thinking to myself, ‘Wow! I’m really good at this.’”
From that moment, he was hooked on music. During high school, Daniel participated in the Governor’s Honors Program and was a four-time All-State singer while also branching out his talents to include composition and piano performance.
Hitting All the High Notes at Simpson
He decided to bring his talents to Simpson following a chance encounter and impromptu mini audition with Dr. Bernard McDonald, the College’s former chair of opera and associate professor of music. Daniel had just performed as a featured soloist in an honors choir, when his music teacher introduced him to McDonald.
“[Dr. McDonald] asked if I wanted to sing for him sometime,” said Daniel. “And I said, ‘I’ll do it right now.’ So, I just burst into an Italian aria, which he later said kind of shocked him. After he told me Simpson was in Iowa, I thought, ‘when will I ever get the chance to go to Iowa? I should just go.’”
McDonald’s mentorship played a big role in Daniel’s growth at Simpson, as did the tutelage of Dr. Michael Patterson and the late Matthew Lau, who together elevated his development in piano composition and voice, respectively.
Even more important than “pushing me to the next level” in vocal performance, Daniel says, Lau looked out for his personal concerns as well. Voice lessons sometimes became times for much-needed support sessions.
“I remember one time we talked for nearly an hour after our scheduled lesson. Professor Lau could tell I was under so much stress, and he walked with me to the finance office and advocated for me. I was in a situation where I didn’t really have money to attend the next semester. It was rough, but I’m so glad I had the support system that made it possible for me [to stay at Simpson].”
Healing Hearts Through Music
Leaning into all that support, Daniel graduated from Simpson with a bachelor’s degree in music education. After three years as a music educator in rural Iowa, he now teaches at Stroud Elementary School in Athens, Ga.
Daniel says the kids there come from “very high risk” backgrounds –dealing with many of the same struggles he experienced growing up. He admits the early days teaching there were so rough that he was ready to give up at times.
“But something in me just kept asking, ‘What if people had given up on me when I had my rough time?’ So, I stayed in this school and kept pouring myself into them even when it felt like they weren’t taking it. I vowed to give them opportunities that I didn’t get.”
Gradually, the students started responding positively to Daniel. Last year, he organized a talent show, where the kids got fired up by the chance to dance, sing and even write their own songs. And last spring, Daniel was thrilled to inspire his students to shine in a school musical.
“Our school hadn’t done a musical in more than a decade. To see the kids putting their hearts out there and doing the things that you teach them, that’s really rewarding.”
When school isn’t in session, Daniel continues to teach and mentor children through causes dear to his heart. He serves as a music director for Evergreen (Colo.) Players’ drama camp each summer. And he is a leadership team member for Royal Family KIDS Camp, which serves children in the foster care system who often face relational trauma.
“We’re giving these kids something to believe in,” said Daniel. “For example, I remember one of my campers with the most maladaptive behaviors just lying in his bunk softly singing one of the songs we taught him in chapel. That really touched my heart.”
Living His Best Life
Through it all, Daniel still finds time to feed his own music composition and performance appetite. As co-founder of Tones Collective, he and his partners perform, write music and offer online and in-person music lessons to people of all ages. Daniel also performs for international companies such as the Rocky Mountain Institute, Ritz-Carlton Atlanta, and county festivals.
“I'm lucky to be doing what I'm doing,” said Daniel. “It’s something I've dreamed of since I was a little kid. So, to wake up every day and work on my music, it’s always a wonderful day. I get to do what I love.”
