Tabor College Connection Summer 2023

From the President

Have you ever had a front-row seat? Perhaps you have experienced a game or performance where you were so close to the action that you felt a part of it. As parents, Karen and I often felt like we had the best seats in the house for watching our children grow and mature. We attended their activities, heard their stories, and met their friends. We were a part of the action but still mostly observers. Similarly, when I play drums on the worship team, I have a front-row seat to the musical worship experience. I am fully engaged and love seeing others join and worship God together.

One of the great delights of being the President of Tabor College is having a front-row seat to what God is doing, and He did a lot in the academic year that just finished. From academics, arts, athletics, to spiritual and campus life there were so many great things to see with our students. From the construction of Jost Hall to Homecoming, Halls of Fame, lectures, President’s Dinner, and the establishment of three newly endowed professorships that increased Tabor’s endowment by over $3 million, it was a great year of advancing the work of Tabor.

In his book “Soul Work: Finding God in Your Entrepreneurial Pursuits,” Dr. Lowell Busenitz suggests that in addition to bringing faith into our work, we can also discover God in our work. We can look for ways where He is already at work, whether through His creation, providing the raw materials and designs that enable new products, or the discovery of God’s giftedness in our lives to innovate, solve particular problems, or meet needs. He states that “work can be an amazing context for advancing our spiritual journeys.”

We have the privilege at Tabor to experience this. I witness our faculty, staff, coaches and directors discover, expand and use their giftedness as they pour into our

students. We get to see our students discover their Godgiven giftedness and calling, learn, achieve and mature. It is a beautiful transformation from Freshman Orientation to Commencement.

If you have been following Tabor on eNews or social media, you already know what a great year it has been. We started the year with 40 students making decisions to follow Christ. We experienced a record 94 percent retention from fall to spring. The number of student-led Bible studies grew from about five the previous year to over 25 this year, with 38 percent of our students participating.

In this issue of the Connection, you will read about the opening of the Central Kansas Entrepreneurship Center and the re-launch of the Honors Program. There are stories about thriving programs such as Psychology and Teacher Education and how Tabor continues its strong tradition of sending students to medical schools. You will read great Tabor student and alumni stories.

One of the most exciting stories for me that is still unfolding is the Challenge issued by Al and Dotty Warkentine. One key to Tabor’s continued success is growing its endowment. One way to do this is by establishing endowed professors. It has been my privilege to be with three couples who committed to making $1 million plus gifts to endow professorships at Tabor College. We hope to establish several more to double our endowment from $20 million to $40 million in the next few years. Increasing the endowment will enable us to remain competitive in offering scholarships and keeping up with inflationary costs. We are excited to announce more about the names and faculty recipients of these endowed professorships later this year.

Thank you for your part in the Tabor family! Keep doing amazing things and impacting the world for Christ. I hope you make plans to secure a front-row seat when you visit Tabor this coming year. Whether it is Homecoming, a performance, a game or a lecture, we hope you can come and see what God is doing through our beloved college.

President David S. Janzen

Connection

Summer 2023

Vol. 77 / No. 2

A magazine for Tabor College alumni & friends

Editor

Adam Suderman adam.suderman@tabor.edu

Contributor

Aleen Ratzlaff aleenr@tabor.edu

Senior Graphic Designer

Diane Oborny dianeo@tabor.edu

Photographer Michael Klaassen michaelwklaassen@tabor.edu

Contributing Photographer

John Cramer

Director of Alumni Relations

Rod Hamm rodneyhamm@tabor.edu

Photography Students

Collin Brown

Brendon Green

Taryn Lawler

Graphic Design Students

Josiah Jost

Caleb Kliewer

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Administration

David S. Janzen, President

Ron Braun, Vice President of Philanthropy

Frank Johnson, Executive Vice President of Academics and Compliance

Cathy Castle, Vice President of Finance and Business, CFO

Faculty Leadership

Amy Ratzlaff, Ph.D. Cand., Associate Professor of Health and Human Performance, Associate Athletic Director, Associate Dean of Academics

Derek Hamm, M.F.A., Associate Professor of Graphic Design, Faculty Chair, Faculty Representative to the Board of Directors

Endowed Professor Challenge

12 Psychology thriving

14 Spotlight: Klaassen in med school

15 Spotlight: Ratzlaff’s legacy

16 113th Tabor Commencement

20 Teaching in Honduras

22 Spotlight: Hendricks leading teammates

24 Indoor T&F sets records

26 Tabor Day reestablished

27 Residence hall named after Josts

30 Alumni News

Board of Directors

Susan Koslowsky, Chair

Diana Raugust, Vice Chair

Ted Faszer, Secretary

Jeral Gross, Treasurer

Roger Ediger, At Large

Craig Ratzlaff, At Large

Eric Driggers

Melissa Gutierrez

Derek Hamm, Faculty Representative

Andrew Jost

Mark Jost

Kelly Kirby

Nate Loewen

Dean Nachtigall

Dennis Penner

Sylvia Penner

Craig Quiring

Pat Redding

Alyvia Owens, Student Representative

Elaine Setzer-Maxwell

Daniel Rodriguez

Tim Sullivan

Orson Thomas

Richard Unruh

Denise Wiens

Al & Dotty Warkentine Endowed Professor Challenge

113th Tabor Commencement

CKEC Elevator Pitch Competition Residence hall named after Josts

$3 million raised toward Al & Dotty Warkentine Endowed Professor Challenge

With an initial gift of $1 million, Al (fs’60) and Dotty (Penner, fs’60) Warkentine have opened an Endowed Professor Challenge at Tabor College. Three additional Endowed Professor or Chair gifts will unlock a second gift from the Warkentine family. A deadline of March 31, 2024, has been set to meet the terms of the challenge.

A $2 million Endowed Chair has been secured, meeting the first of the three needed additional gifts. The individual/family behind that gift has chosen to remain anonymous.

“Al and Dotty have and continue to be faithful supporters of Tabor College,” said President David Janzen, Ph.D. “The creation of this challenge serves as yet another example of their generosity, and with the exciting addition of our first Endowed Chair, we praise God for His faithfulness and how these funds will help move Tabor forward in accomplishing its mission.”

The names and areas of these endowed positions will be announced in Fall 2023, along with the Tabor faculty who will be receiving the respective titles.

An additional $1 million endowed professorship outside of the Warkentine Challenge was also recently established on Tabor’s behalf.

“Growing our Endowment is instrumental in securing our long-term financial stability,” Janzen said. “We look forward to what God has in store as we acquire funding for hiring and retaining great faculty.”

Growing the Tabor Endowment

Endowment growth ensures greater long-term sustainability to provide competitive scholarships and keep up with inflation.

New endowments established since January 1, 2023:

• Kermit and Ruth Ratzlaff Scholarship Fund

• Al and Dotty Warkentine Endowed Professorship Challenge

Dr. James Titah with students.

A Lifelong Impact

Warkentines excited for what God will do with endowed funds

Two years are all Al (fs’60) and Dotty (Penner, fs’60) Warkentine needed to know how transformative Tabor College can be.

It is one part of their story as the longtime Tabor supporters have created the Al & Dotty Warkentine Endowed Professor Challenge. As detailed on page 4, The Challenge can add up to five endowed positions if met by Easter 2024.

An Endowed Professor and/or Chair was initially brought to their attention by President David Janzen. In following conversations, they sought to learn what it entailed. It led to their memories of their professors, remembering their influence and the legacy left over the last six decades.

Dotty said God put a nudge on their hearts to take the next step, and the challenge was born soon after. Now, they invite other donors to come alongside them.

“The impact that a gift like this has on the budget is one thing, but it has a lifelong impact,” Al said. “The interest earned on Endowment funds goes on for 5, 10, 15 and 100plus years and truly is a gift that keeps giving.”

With friendships that date back to their days at Tabor, Al and Dotty often reflect on their experience.

Al, a retired dentist, remembers walking into the classrooms of Dr. Solomon L. Loewen and Dr. Will Johnson, understanding the quality of education Tabor students received. For both, professors Malinda Nikkel, Dr. Emil Thiessen, and Dr. Lando Hiebert were a part of building their foundation as students and working professionals.

“Their encouragement along the way was so meaningful,” Al said. “When I was battling the fact that I knew I was not going to go into engineering, it seemed like I struggled with what direction I wanted to go. These professors were always willing to sit down, counsel and listen to you on what was next.”

“The impact that a gift like this has on the budget is one thing, but it has a lifelong impact,” Al said. “The interest earned on Endowment funds goes on for 5, 10, 15 and 100-plus years and truly is a gift that keeps giving.”

Dotty said. “They have to try over and over again. I look at what Tabor can do, and we are so impressed by that. If we can strengthen that for Tabor, it can be a positive recruiting tool for those who want to go into medical school.”

Al and Dotty said this gift is also a vote of confidence in Christian higher education and Tabor’s investments in its students moving forward.

With a storied legacy of students entering healthcare, Al and Dotty want to support the sciences and see Tabor students achieve their dreams in the industry.

“We have personally experienced relatives who have tried to get into medical school and how difficult it is,”

“David and Karen are so personable, and we felt connected from their very first visit,” Dotty said. “Beyond their warmth and kindness, we are so impressed with his grasp of what is needed to make Tabor College survive in today’s world. That is why we feel so good about putting some funds there.”

Al (fs’60) and Dotty (Penner, fs’60) Warkentine. Photo courtesy, Jason Kinzel.

Friesen adds expertise to growing grocery chain

From third-grade friends to groomsmen at each other’s weddings to co-founding partners of a growing grocery chain.

Perhaps it wasn’t the exact story that Mitch Friesen (g’11) envisioned when he received his Tabor College diploma, but an interest in entrepreneurship was undeniable.

A phone call from childhood friend Alex Ruhter (fs’09) in early 2020 was the beginning of Friesen’s career shift. JackBe, a pickup-only grocery chain, was in its early stages, and Ruhter invited Friesen to come on as a co-founding partner and to work accounting and finance.

Earlier in 2023, the company opened two stores in Edmond, Okla. A third is set to open in Yukon later this summer.

JackBe requires app or web orders, fulfilling many in less than 10 minutes. A key concept is eliminating pickup reservations, allowing customers to pick up orders at their leisure by the end of the next business day.

When COVID struck, Friesen said many companies ran toward grocery delivery, and he and his team found that JackBe had a future in perfecting a pickup-only operation.

In its first six months of operation, the feedback has been positive.

“We knew we could do this and do it well,” Friesen said. “We knew we could offer products that people will love and compete and be the ‘Chick-fil-A of groceries.’ We want a high level of customer service and convenience.”

Friesen, one of three native Kansans in leadership, said the OKC metro is a perfect home.

“We felt like God wanted us to start it down here,” Friesen said. “There is a lot of acceptance of new concepts and ideas and amazing Christian entrepreneurs and people.”

The JackBe team wanted to be able to offer 80 percent of the typical items that a customer normally orders. Friesen said they examined a product like ketchup and realized that most retailers offer as many as 25 to 50 varieties.

After market research, JackBe chose five options, including a name brand, private label/off-brand, familysized, natural and organic.

“When you open a store, you find what people want versus what we thought they’d need,” Friesen said. “Every market is going to be slightly different, so we’ve done a whole lot of tweaking.”

Now 12 years after graduating from Tabor, Friesen said he distinctly remembers as a senior building a business plan for an assignment. From the idea, profitability and general thesis, his hunger for entrepreneurship continued to grow.

After a decade at Cargill, he said he is thankful for the experience he gained before running full steam with JackBe.

Working in four different locations over a 10-year window, Friesen said it was important for him to expose himself to business through a financial lens, gaining the experience and knowledge it would take to one day own a business himself.

“I wanted something that I could stand behind and something I had a future in,” Friesen said. “That was the hardest challenge in jumping into entrepreneurship. You are cutting out other potential avenues, and while starting a business is one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do, it’s also one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. What is worth stepping out and trusting God to provide during the journey?”

Mitch Friesen (g’11)

Mitch Friesen (g’11) is a co-founding partner and COO of JackBe, a pickup-only grocery chain. It opened its first two locations in Edmond, Okla., with one coming soon to Yukon. Photos courtesy of JackBe.

Ostermann, Ens win CKEC Elevator Pitch Competition

Aloera Ostermann (JR, Manhattan, Kan.) and Terry Ens, Tabor College facilities director, won the Central Kansas Entrepreneurship Center Elevator Pitch Competition. The first annual event was held Tuesday, April 10, in the Franz Family Heritage Lobby of the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts.

The contest included cash prizes for winners of each category. Before the live competition, each participant submitted a 60- to a 90-second video explaining their idea for a business. The pitch could be for an actual business or mock business if a student or community member wanted to polish their presentation skills.

They presented those pitches before a panel of judges, including Ciara Miller of Network Kansas, Allie Wiens of Emprise Bank, and Brent Barkman of Barkman Honey. All three entities sponsored the event.

Ostermann won the college division, earning $500 with her presentation of turning old T-shirts into keepsake blankets. Ens also won $500, pitching Twisted Coffee, a mobile business for events that infuses coffee drinks with various fudge flavors and offers other food services.

Jada Thomas (FR, Hays, Kan.) and Alia Hirschi (FR, Sandy, Utah) took second, $300, and third place, $200, in the college division, respectively.

“The Elevator Pitch Competition was a wonderful opportunity for our students and community members to pitch their business ideas and to polish their presentation skills in front of a terrific panel of judges,” said President David Janzen, Ph.D. “We look forward to celebrating innovation in further CKEC events, helping encourage and inspire current and future entrepreneurs.”

CKEC holds ribbon cutting

The ribbon cutting of the Central Kansas Entrepreneurship Center at Tabor College was celebrated Friday, Jan. 13. Joined by government officials and representatives of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the CKEC’s home was commemorated before its Jan. 16 grand opening. At the corner of Lincoln and D streets, Tabor provided staff to operate the facility.

“We are thrilled to recognize and thank the people and organizations that made the Central Kansas Entrepreneurship Center possible,” President

David Janzen, Ph.D., said. “This facility will play an integral role in helping support the dreams and visions of our students and the local business owners that help our community thrive.”

In conjunction with a $90,000 Rural Business Development Grant from the USDA and a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the City of Hillsboro, the facility will be a significant catalyst for business and entrepreneurial development and growth in the region.

Joining the Ribbon Cutting (L to R):

Mark Rooker, Hillsboro Community Hospital CEO

Jake Wessel, State Agricultural Representative for Senator Jerry Moran

John Mugler, District Director for Dr. Roger Marshall

Stephen Owen, Kansas State Representative

David Janzen, Ph.D., President of Tabor College

Christy Davis, State Director of the USDA

Carolyn Brazil, Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce

Lou Thurston, Hillsboro Mayor

Susan Franz Koslowsky, Chair of Tabor Board of Directors

Michael Fagg, Kansas State Senator

(L to R): Judge Brent Barkman, Terry Ens, Alia Hirschi, Jada Thomas, Aloera Ostermann, Judge Ciara Miller, Judge Allie Wiens, President David Janzen.

Celebrating academic accomplishments of students & faculty

Clarence R. Hiebert Excellence in Teaching Award

Given to the faculty member who best exemplifies the qualities of excellent teaching

Dr. Sarah Tham, Teacher Education

Kornelius Hiebert Outstanding Student Merit Award

A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 is required as well as a demonstrated leadership on campus

Danielle Allison (JR, Oakley, Kan.)

Kade Hemmert (SR, Oakley, Kan.)

Fran Jabara Leadership Award

An endowment used to recognize and reward leadership gifts in graduating students

Natalie Ford (SR, Fort Collins, Colo.)

David Moss (SR, Haysville, Kan.)

Nikkel Presidential Service Award

Demonstrated involvement in on and non-campus ministry, shown tendency for providing service to others around them without regard to their own circumstances

Millie Sechrist (SR, Hillsboro, Kan.)

Alfredo ‘Freddie’ Enriquez (SR, Rocksprings, Texas)

Herman and Louise Friesen Music Scholarship

Established in 2006, awarded annually to a music/music education major that exhibits honesty, integrity, and self-discipline

Olivia Jury (SR, Hillsboro, Kan.)

Jonah Kliewer Choral Music Scholarship

Endowed in honor of Dr. Jonah Kliewer and to be given to a student pursuing choral music

Mollie Beaver (JR, Wichita, Kan.)

Dr. Karol Hunt Sport Management Scholarship

Awarded to a human performance major, preference given to a student with a concentration in sport management, minimum 3.0 GPA required

Kassidy Beam (JR, McPherson, Kan.)

Jenessa J. Hlad Memorial Scholarship

Awarded in Hlad’s honor, preference to student majoring in exercise science or related field, minimum 3.0 GPA required

Leon Srisamutr (JR, Manchester, UK)

William J. Johnson Scholarship

Preference given to juniors and seniors, chemistry students, and considering a graduate program

Tobias Stewart (JR, Greenville, Ala.)

Solomon L. Loewen Scholarship

Preference given to juniors and seniors, biology students, and considering a graduate program

Jacob Paez (SO, Washington, Pa.)

David B. Wiens Memorial Scholarship

Preference given to a sophomore/junior/senior majoring in mathematical sciences

Jonah Arrasmith (FR, Bel Aire, Kan.)

Don C. and Frieda K. Peters Scholarship

Preference to a female who has completed their freshman year, majoring in natural sciences

Riley Collins (SO, Henderson, Nev.)

Robert Watson Memorial Award

Established in memory of a long-time faculty member in the business department

Andreas Aho (JR, Menahga, Minn.)

Danielle Allison, left, and Kade Hemmert, right, were named recipients of the Kornelius Hiebert Outstanding Student Merit Award. They are pictured with Dr. Frank Johnson, Executive VP of Academics & Compliance.

Honors Program, H.W. Lohrenz Scholarship offering new opportunities

When the H.W. Lohrenz Scholarship was re-instituted in 2021, it was decided to intertwine the recipients with Tabor College’s Honors Program.

As recipients of the annual, $35,000 scholarship, students are required to enroll in a minimum six hours of the Honors Colloquium. A total of 12 credit hours will be required, and include a senior project that could come from the student’s major.

Of the nine students who were participants as of the spring 2023 semester, six of them received the H.W. Lohrenz Scholarship. Three were chosen because of exemplary academic work. Five of the Lohrenz Scholars in the Class of 2026 also received ACT scores of 30 or higher.

“These students are intellectually curious,” said Dr. David Faber,

professor of the class. “They each bring something unique in how we discuss and process the different readings that we go through together.”

In the fall of 2022, students examined dialogues of Plato and the defence of Socrates and The Republic. The spring semester included fiction and non-fiction readings of C.S. Lewis.

“In some ways, this course is the pursuit of wisdom,” Faber said. “’It’s an opportunity for students to evaluate the purpose of their education and reflect on what they’ve chosen to do in college and beyond.”

To learn more about the H.W. Lohrenz Scholarship and others offered by Tabor, visit www.tabor.edu/scholarships/.

The revitalized Honors Program concluded the 2022-23 academic year with nine students. Front row: Zach Beachy (SO, Peoria, Ariz.), Jada Thomas (FR, Hays, Kan.), Sydney Ronan (FR, Hesston, Kan.), Malorie Hein (FR, Hillsboro, Kan.), Caleb Thompson (FR, Hesston, Kan.) Second row: Kylie Davis (JR, Wichita, Kan.), Sonya Zimmerman (SO, Valley Center, Kan.), David Klassen (JR, Ardmore, Okla.), Merek Boone (FR, Modesto, Calif.), and Dr. David Faber.

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Klassen, Pauls named to Arts Hall of Fame

Carolyn Klassen (g’66) and Jim Pauls (g’56) have been selected as the 2023 inductees for the Tabor College Arts Hall of Fame.

“We’re thrilled to honor the achievements of Tabor Arts graduates,” said Dr. Greg Zielke, Tabor arts director and Hall of Fame committee member. “Carolyn and Jim are perfect examples of living out our mission and using their gifts and talents to further Christ and His kingdom.”

The ceremony is set for Saturday, Sept. 9, in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts.

A decorated pianist and organist, Klassen spent nearly 30 years behind the keys. She taught music courses and accompanied choirs at Garden City Community College for 29 years. She also gave private piano lessons for 15 years. Klassen was highly sought after to play for professional music productions.

“We’re thrilled to honor the achievements of Tabor Arts graduates,” said Dr. Greg Zielke, Tabor arts director and Hall of Fame committee member. “Carolyn and Jim are perfect examples of living out our mission and using their gifts and talents to further Christ and His kingdom.”

She facilitated a government grant to purchase Apple computers for the community college, developing the Finnup Computer Piano Lab. Her service in the Garden City community included the Piano Teachers League, the Southwest Kansas Community Concert Association, and the Piano Festival, which is entering its 40th year.

Carolyn and her husband, Tom, met at Central Christian High School in Hutchinson, Kan. They both attended Tabor College, and she graduated with a degree in music education. They were married on June 5, 1965, celebrating their 50th anniversary before she passed away on Dec. 30, 2015.

A longtime music educator, Pauls began teaching in 1959-60 when he was invited to start a music program in the elementary and secondary schools at Berryton, Kan., near Topeka. Other teaching stops included three more schools in Kansas, Haysville, Goddard and McPherson.

He resigned from McPherson in 1987 and continued to direct adult and youth choirs at First Baptist Church in the community. His wife, Lorene “Rene” (Toews, fs’54), also was an educator and served as Director of Christian Education at the church. Pauls now serves as an accompanist at two Methodist churches in Canton and Galva, Kan.

Carolyn Klassen (g’66). Courtesy photos.

Jim Pauls (g’56). Courtesy photos.

Concert Choir Tour heads west in 2023

The Tabor College Concert Choir performed in Arizona, California and Colorado for its 2023 spring tour. The Chamber Voices, Brass Ensemble, and For His Glory, Tabor’s Contemporary Christian music team, joined them on the road.

The tour theme, “Light,” was built on John 8:12, celebrating its presence in God’s creation.

“It is so amazing that Jesus then uses this beautiful, life-sustaining miracle to explain who He is,” said Dr. Greg Zielke, Tabor arts & choir director. “Our music selections explored some of these aspects, both from the aspect of light in the creation and as Jesus the light of the world.”

Stops included:

• Forefront Church at Harvey Park, Denver, Colo.

• Shafter MB Church, Shafter, Calif.

• Reedley MB Church, Reedley, Calif.

• Palm Village Retirement, Reedley, Calif.

• North Fresno MB Church, Fresno, Calif.

• Immanuel Christian Schools, Reedley, Calif.

• Carmel Presbyterian Church, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Calif.

• Shoreline Calvary Chapel, Morro Bay, Calif.

• Copper Hills Church, Peoria, Ariz.

• Episcopal Church of the Epiphany, Flagstaff, Ariz.

“We don’t take for granted the extraordinary effort and support it takes to mount a tour both from the Tabor side and those who offer a concert,” Zielke said. “It remains one of the most exciting ways to bring students before people to hear what is happening at Tabor, hear wonderful music, and experience how God is using Tabor for His kingdom purposes.”

Theatre performs “Night Must Fall”

Tabor College Theatre performed “Night Must Fall” for its spring production. Dates for the show spanned two weekends, April 20 & 22 and April 28 & 29, and the show was the last under the direction of William Green. Written in 1935 by Emlyn

delighted audiences over its four shows in the Prieb Harder Theater.

Cast & Crew:

Joshua Strid Dan

Elizabeth George Olivia Grayne

London Eichelberger .............. Mrs. Bramson

Viggo Shafer .................. Inspector Belsize

Gabe Wilson ..................... Hubert Laurie

Angela Castillo Mrs. Terence

Katherine Perigo Dora Parkoe

Aubrey Laird Nurse Libby

William Green Director

William Shafer ....... Stage Manager/Sound Board

Mallory Ediger ....... Asst. Stage Manager/Marketing

Noah Basinger-Beard Stage Right Hand

Shay Sullivan Lighting Board

Bryce Bassett Lighting Design

William Shafer/Seth Auchterlonie/

Aaron Epp & cast ................ Set Building

Williams, the action-packed, thrilling production

The Tabor College Concert Choir stops at Bell Rock in Sedona, Ariz. Photo courtesy of Betsy George.

Psychology helping meet growing needs in mental health

The need to address mental health concerns has arguably never been greater.

It’s why Jim Paulus (g’94), assistant professor of psychology, couldn’t be happier with the growth and sustainability of his program at Tabor College.

After returning to campus in the fall of 2011 to lead Student Life, Paulus recently concluded his sixth year as a professor. The program carried under 30 majors when he first took over. It ended the 2023 spring semester with 70 majors and 36 minors.

“With the world being digital and less face-to-face, I don’t think it’s a given that people have those skills,” Paulus said. “Students in our program recognize the need for connection, and they’re drawn to that. Whether as a single or double major, they recognize the value of connecting, why it can be hard, and how they can intervene.”

With a requirement to take General Psychology or Intro to Sociology, Paulus has seen student interest boom in recent years.

“I get 100 freshmen, and we talk about adding a minor or second major in psychology,” he said. “I hope they see what the class covers, and I hope to convey that psychology covers their interests. It creates better interaction as a student and for their future.”

Another boost has been the number of dual-credit students and earlier exposure to classes like psychology in high school. The recent increase opened the door to an additional professor in the major and a master’s degree. No timetable is set for either addition.

Hailey O’Neal (SR, Pipe Creek, Texas) was a double major in Psychology and Social Work and also concluded her career with Tabor softball.

Pursuing her master’s degree at Incarnate Word University after graduating, O’Neal said her experience at Tabor propelled her career.

“This well-rounded learning environment has shaped me so that I can effectively respond to various situations that may occur in the duration of my time in the field,” O’Neal said.

That interest also meets a demand in the industry. Paulus said some counseling and psychology clinics are telling people they may have to wait a month or more before they can see them.

“Mental health concerns are skyrocketing, and there is such a need,” Paulus said. “There is a significant need for skilled workers with the heart to serve. The need isn’t going anywhere. If you desire to make a difference and are willing to train to do it, there will be a place for you.”

Behind the intrapersonal experience, it’s an understanding that Paulus hopes to convey to his students that life, whether joy or trial, was not meant to be lived alone.

“That’s where I feel psychology and faith go hand-in-hand,” Paulus said. “Jesus didn’t have to have 12 disciples to do his work, but what he did is find 12 people to walk with and live life together. I use that analogy all the time. He showed us how we need to walk this world. God designed us to be relational, and that’s when we’re at our best.”

Book by Terrence McNally • Music by Stephen Flaherty • Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens

Inspired by the Twentieth Century Fox Motion Pictures by special arrangement with Buena Vista Theatrical From the play by Marcelle Maurette as adapted by Guy Bolton

Anastasia is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals.

Jim Paulus finished his sixth year as a professor at Tabor. He originally returned to campus as Dean of Student Life in fall 2011.

Students travel to Thailand and Europe in spring semester

For the first time since 1967, Tabor College did not hold an Interterm session. The change pushed most student travel windows to May, with the exception of a late January trip to Thailand for Contemporary Christian Music students. That trip was led by David Martens, CCM director. A group of 15 students traveled to Europe, exploring Amsterdam, France, Germany and Switzerland. Prof. Garrett Looney, History, and Prof. Derek Hamm, Graphic Design, led the latter trip. Photos provided by: Collin Brown, Emma Heide, Lauren Christensen, and Sara Kumrod.

A group of CCM students led worship at a conference of Crossworld missionaries in Thailand. The trip was originally offered by Kristen Martens (g’17), who works for the Crossworld office in Kansas City, Mo. She is the daughter of David (g’85) and Lillian (Funk, g’85) Martens. Front row: Lillian, Olivia Jury (JR, Hillsboro, Kan.), Lauren Christensen (JR, Meade, Kan.), Zach Beachy (SO, Peoria, Ariz.) Second row: David, Paul Glanzer (SO, Hillsboro, Kan.), Jonathan Unruh (SR, Meade, Kan.), and Jeff Tuten (SO, Scottsdale, Ariz.)

The team also led worship in the Manikheow Neighborhood Park near Chonburi, Thailand. This was part of their stay alongside USMB missionaries Ozzy and Sara Kumrod. Pictured, Tabor students pose with members of the Manikheow neighborhood during their stay with the Kumrods.

A group of 15 students explored Amsterdam, France, Germany and Switzerland. Led by Prof. Garrett Looney and Prof. Derek Hamm, students explored key sites of the birth of Anabaptism, as well as other art and design history. Students are pictured at Zaanse Schans, a neighborhood in the Dutch town of Zaandam, near Amsterdam.

The student worship team leads worship at the Crossworld Conference.

(L to R) Emma Heide, Jacie Myers, Johnna Swiers in Berlin, Germany.

Klaassen’s prescription written since childhood

Medicine has been part of Pierce Klaassen’s story since the beginning.

Perry Klaassen (g’61), his grandfather, and Paul Klaassen (g’89), his father, each graduated from Tabor College and became practicing physicians. Both set a stage that influenced the interests of their son and grandson in becoming a doctor.

After his Presidential Leadership Program selection in 2019, it wasn’t hard for Pierce to know that he wanted to pursue medicine as a Bluejay.

“I’ve seen the impact that my dad has had on our community,” said Pierce, an Ark City, Kan., native. “I grew up really liking science and math. I always looked for other things I could have done, but I always came back to medicine. My parents always told me they wanted me to do what I wanted to do, and I prayed about it, but this is what I wanted to do.”

Pierce made ‘rounds’ at the Ark City nursing home with his father when he was younger, giving him a firsthand glimpse at providing medical care. He’d hear stories of how his father impacted lives within the community and Cowley County, giving even more reason to pursue medicine himself.

It’s what led him to the Scholars in Rural Health program

“I appreciate the opportunity to get to know a lot of people and know them at a deeper level,” Pierce said. “Hillsboro almost feels like one big family, and I love how relational it is.”

through the University of Kansas Medical Center. Designed for students who want to provide primary care in rural, underserved areas, it was the perfect catalyst for Pierce’s passion for medicine. He’ll begin medical school in July 2023.

“Being able to have people in my community say how much my dad means to them and to see the impact he has had…, you can’t please everybody, but I’ve seen how hard he works to make Ark City and Cowley County a better place,” Pierce added.

Along his path to graduating from Tabor in May 2023, Pierce participated in activities across campus. He recently concluded four years in the cross country and track & field programs. He also briefly played tennis, was a member of the Concert Choir, and served in leadership for the Science Club.

The opportunities of a smaller campus were perfect for Pierce as he planned his future. In a Class 4A high school in Kansas and a community of just under 12,000, Pierce knew he’d be able to get involved in almost anything he wanted to at Tabor.

“I appreciate the opportunity to get to know a lot of people and know them at a deeper level,” Pierce said. “Hillsboro almost feels like one big family, and I love how relational it is.”

Pierce noted his friendships and the opportunity to work alongside fellow PLP scholar Tara Sheets (SR, Azle, Texas) and Joshua Gaede (g’22, Klamath, Ore.). Sheets is also preparing for medical school, while Gaede started last summer.

With long hours of studying, especially preparing for post-graduate work, Sheets said relationships like these are invaluable.

“We supported each other by relying on each other’s experience and knowledge of the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test),” Sheets said. “It was so nice having someone in your class who is going through the same intense, anxious process, knowing they could understand how daunting the application process was and what it would mean to be accepted into medical school.”

70 years & counting: Ratzlaffs entrenched in Tabor history

It wasn’t just that Marvin Ratzlaff’s father, David, attended Tabor Academy, or his wife, Marilyn (Seibel, g’70), earned her teaching degree at Tabor College. The couple saw Tabor as a place of transformation as children and then as college students. God was equipping generations of kingdom builders, and the Ratzlaffs wanted to be engrained in Tabor’s present and future.

Over 70 years since first stepping on campus, that foundation hasn’t changed.

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Whether it was helping feed students with eggs from their farm or later sending seven of their eight children and son and daughters-in-law to Tabor, they have always kept close ties to the college.

Marvin and Marilyn Ratzlaff’s children

Merle and Cora (Ratzlaff fs’74) Friesen

Marvin (g’79) and Andrea (Ratzlaff, g’80) Schellenberg

Curtis (g’80) and Debbie (Ratzlaff fs’80) Karber

Craig (g’87) and Tammy (Merry, g’88) Ratzlaff

After one year as a Tabor student, Marvin (fs’52) and his father opened a dairy farm outside Hillsboro. Marilyn also taught in Hillsboro for over 30 years.

As a young married couple, they followed the example of their families as they chose where to give.

“Marvin’s mother always had envelopes for the church (and) groceries, and they never failed to give to God,” Marilyn said. “That kind of giving carries through to your children.”

That history has given them a close eye toward the growth of the campus. Marilyn recalled eating and living in the Mary J. Regier Building. Marvin fondly remembered his days of playing college basketball in “the barn.”

They are longtime members of Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church, giving them another firsthand glimpse into the life of Tabor students.

“Everything we have is God’s already,” Marilyn said. “When we

give back to Tabor, we’re giving His resources back so that he can be known among the students.”

Could they have given elsewhere? Yes. However, they saw what a Christian education did for them and wanted it to impact future generations of students.

“Tabor has been good to us and is good for our community,” Marvin said. “Christian higher education is the best you can get, and as long as we can still give, we’re all in for Tabor College.”

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Marvin served on the Tabor Board of Directors for 11 years (1988-99), and their son, Craig, has now sat on the board for 17 years. Marilyn, 88, and Marvin, 91, remain frequent guests on campus for arts and athletic events.

The Marvin and Marilyn Ratzlaff Dugout is occupied by the Bluejays during home baseball games. They financially supported the construction of the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts, the Pendery Athletic Center, and the Bluejay Suite. A plaque that lists their names sits outside the suite that overlooks Joel H. Wiens Stadium.

“It takes a lot of drops to make a gallon of water,” Marvin said of their gifts. “That’s what I’m hoping for. I pray there can be a lot of drops like ours.”

Marilyn (Seibel, g’70), middle, and Marvin Ratzlaff (fs’52) present at the 2023 President’s Dinner.

Celebrating Tabor’s 113th Commencement

Tabor College brought its undergraduate class and master’s students together for the 113th Commencement. The Class of 2023, including 77 undergraduates on campus and online, and 29 from Graduate & Online were honored in the joint ceremony.

In the fall of 2018, Tabor instituted a tradition of “The Ascent” and “The Descent.” As freshmen, students ascend from the Centennial Plaza up the steps of the H.W. Lohrenz Administration Building to begin their years as scholars at Tabor.

Four years later, these same students descend the steps through the halls of learning and return to the Centennial Plaza before circling to the Richert Auditorium. It is where they symbolically are released into the world to go and be Christ-like servants and help make the world more as God intended it to be. See the live stream of Commencement and “The Ascent & Descent” at www.tabor.edu/commencement.

Twenty-six students were named Magna Cum Laude (3.70-3.849) or Summa Cum Laude (3.85-4.00). Nineteen of them earned the highest honors.

“We’re so proud of the dedication of these students and the work they did to complete their degree,” said President David Janzen, Ph.D. “We pray God’s blessings over these graduates and are honored to walk with them as alumni, fulfilling His calling in their lives.”

Natalie Ford, senior class president, spoke on behalf of the undergraduate class.

“When we came to Tabor, we did not understand the impact it would have on us in lifelong friendships and that it would bring us closer as brothers and sisters in Christ,” Ford said. “As the graduating class of 2023, we have been through a lot together, and we persevered to sit in these seats.”

Under the direction of Dr. Greg Zielke, the Tabor Concert Choir sang “I Will Sing” by Michael Engelhardt.

Chandelle Claassen, an M.Ed. graduate, gave the scripture reading of Philippians 4:1,4-9 (NIV).

The senior class requested that Professor

Emerita Aleen Ratzlaff, Ph.D., give the Commencement Address. Ratzlaff’s speech was titled “Embracing the Vitamin Cs of Life,” signifying C words for students to reflect on as they graduate.

“Vitamins are vital for ongoing growth,” Ratzlaff said. “Our physical bodies need it to form blood vessels, muscle, and collagen in bones, and it’s also essential to our body’s healing process. So, like vitamins, I believe that connection, communication and change are at the heart and vital as you graduate and contribute to this world.”

Dr. Melinda Rangel, Prof. Amy Ratzlaff and Dr. David Stevens performed the hoodings for master’s students. Rangel directs the leadership concentration, while Ratzlaff directs sports management. Stevens is the M.Ed. director.

Prof. Derek Hamm, associate professor of graphic design and faculty chair, bestowed honor cords, while President David Janzen, Ph.D., presented diplomas.

Seth Hilton spoke on behalf of the Graduate & Online students, celebrating the guidance of his professors and the support of his family and friends. He recently concluded two years as the graduate assistant for women’s basketball.

The Class of 2023 included 77 undergraduates and 29 Graduate & Online students.

Dr. Melinda Rangel, right, and Prof. Amy Ratzlaff, left, hood Noah Brown (g’21), an M.B.A. graduate.

Left: (Back to front) Hanna Jones, Laney Scott, Emma Malm and Brianna Hable pose during The Descent next to the Centennial Plaza.

President David Janzen, Ph.D., leads the undergraduate class of 2023 in The Descent from the H.W. Lohrenz Administration Building.

Above: Members of the graduating class pray at the start of the ceremony.

Reagan Hess smiles as she walks through the Faculty Tunnel at the end of Commencement.

Darian Ratzlaff greets Dr. Frank Johnson through the Faculty Tunnel in the Regier Atrium.

Millie Sechrist receives her diploma from President David Janzen, Ph.D.

Jaron Usher offers the invocation at the start of the ceremony in the Richert Auditorium.

Pierce Klaassen celebrates his graduation with members of his family. Each family member pictured is also a Tabor graduate.

M.Ed. graduate Chandelle Claassen gives the scripture reading during the ceremony.

Cobie Villegas joins his family on the Kliewer Plaza after Commencement.

(L to R) After receiving their diplomas, Caleb Kliewer, Josiah Jost, Bethany Yutzy and Noah Spicer met to commemorate their graduation.

Dr. Sarah Tham completed her third year as a Teacher Education professor at Tabor College.

Choosing joy: Tham’s long-lasting impact on Tabor students

Dr. Sarah Tham brought a passion for Christian education to her interview at Tabor College.

Standing amidst the COVID pandemic, she didn’t know if her teaching career would take her home to Malaysia or to another U.S. state. There was a collective vision for Teacher Education at Tabor, and it was the start of a blossoming relationship.

Tham is passionate about immersing herself into the campus community.

After accepting a position at Tabor for fall 2020, Tham chose to live in Hillsboro during the weeks and go home to see her family on the weekends in Lawrence, Kan. It was something she knew she’d do before accepting her position.

Students frequent her office for help with courses, to talk about life events, and also to visit her home for meals.

“When missionaries go into the field, they feed the people, and meet their needs first, and that allows them to share Christ,” she said. “I wanted to share life with everyone. I wanted to share a cultural experience, and if you come from a more rural background and you’re going into education, you’ll be stretched more than that.”

Fluent in English and Malay, and conversational in Mandarin and Cantonese, Tham’s experiences in multi-cultural settings were perfect to prepare educational students for English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes.

Tham was also recognized as the 2023 recipient of the Clarence R. Hiebert Excellence in Teaching Award at the Academic Honors banquet.

“She really pushed me through these classes to think about how I would interact with these students,

and she was able to give me real examples of what she saw and experienced herself,” said Teacher Education major Emma Heide (JR, Wichita, Kan.)

Since Tham spends her weeks in Hillsboro, she is a regular at games and student events. Her support led to her receiving “Fan of the Year” at the 2021-22 Bluejay Sports Awards. It’s that approach that has helped Tham persevere amidst family trials.

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In March 2022, Tham’s husband, Weng, was forced to leave the country because of an expired work permit. As part of her Fulbright Scholarship in the U.S., the family wanted to apply for a waiver for the two-year home-residency requirement under religious, political, and ethnic differences. Having missed one year of re-applying for his work permit, they were stuck with few directions to turn.

Weng cannot enter the United States for at least three years, and the family is at the start of a three- to four-year application process for his waiver application. He currently teaches in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, at Academia Los Pinares.

Her time at Tabor also opened her relationship with ALP, allowing her husband to find a job in a country that her family could reach more easily.

“It’s funny because when I first met these guys, I was just so impressed with their school,” she said. “I told my husband that when we retire, we should go teach in Honduras. Weng looked at me and wondered why I’d suggest that. God’s sense of humor is incredible—just over and over again.”

While Tham is limited to two or three visits per year to Honduras, she’s trusting God in His timing, and wanting to build a culture of grace and gratitude on campus.

Had it not been for the work she had in research and presenting across the globe, Tham would have not been able to apply for the proper waivers that would allow employers to advocate the work that is of benefit for the American society.

Her vulnerability in choosing gratitude has undoubtedly made an impact on her students.

“Unless she had told you what was going on you would have never known,” Heide said about Tham. “She would end all of our conversations about the situation with some variation of ‘God is in control, so it is all going to work out.’ It truly is just a testament to her faith and how openly she shows it to us.”

Come join Tabor College in the Holy Land!

Alumni welcome!

Tabor College and Bethel College are again collaborating on a trip to Jordan, Palestine, and Israel, from Dec. 26, 2023 through Jan. 15, 2024.

Come understand the Bible in its context, learn about the three major religions in the area, understand better Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and take time to reflect, worship and pray together.

There is currently room for additional persons to participate.

If interested, contact Doug Miller (dougm@tabor.edu) for more information.

Tabor student learning, ministry and service trips for 2023 and 2024: Portugal: vision trip, Indonesia and Peru: ACTION, Eastern Europe: choir, South Texas: learning and service.

more at www.tabor.edu/carsoncenter

Wanting to bridge and connect different cultures, Dr. Sarah Tham routinely hosts Tabor students for meals throughout the academic year. Photo courtesy of Dr. Sarah Tham.

Tabor, Academia Los Pinares forging stronger connection

Separated by nearly 2,500 miles, a heart for Christian education has tied Tabor and Academia Los Pinares.

Beginning in August 2023, three Tabor graduates will teach at the private school in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Jessica Buller (g’22) started last year, and she’ll be joined this summer by Brynnalese Nelson (g’23) and Lauryn Paredez (g’23).

Tabor’s history at the school dates back even further, including alumni Katelin (Horstick, g’16) Lumen, Kari Schmidt (g’18), and Callie Gerbrandt (g’18).

Over its almost 60-year history, the school has grown from 50 students to a Christian-bilingual school of over 800.

Buller student taught at ALP during the spring 2021 semester and returned to teach full-time after graduating. She teaches fourth grade, minus all Spanish core classes, coaches basketball and volleyball, and helps with a bi-weekly mentorship program for fifth and sixth graders.

Whether it’s notes of affirmation or their desire to connect with her individually, Buller said the Gospel is resonating in the lives of her students.

“I know for sure He is moving in me,” Buller said. “Each day teaches me patience and walking in Christ’s love. These kids are craving the truth, and we have the opportunity to intertwine it into what we do.”

Like Buller, Nelson had multiple opportunities to interact with ALP administrators and recruiters when they visited Tabor.

Originally a History Education major, Nelson said these visits and digging into other cultures made her eager to open a new door in Tegucigalpa.

“I’m excited to spend all day with students that weren’t raised the same way as me,” Nelson said. “I want to hear about their outlook on life and how it impacts their faith. It can impact me personally and spiritually, seeing what it’s like to live that out in other cultures.”

Paredez has always enjoyed science, starting as a Biochemistry major at Tabor. She took an Interterm trip to Guatemala in January 2022, opening her eyes to the educational needs in Central America.

“The trip was centered around social work, but it also had a lot to do with education,” Paradez said. “Teaching is an amazing job, and when I got this job, I saw how much I can help somebody and to try and lead someone to better things.”

Nelson was also a kids’ ministry intern at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church, helping develop her eye for elementary education after initially thinking she’d teach in a secondary setting. Having it be a private, Christian school made the decision easier.

“I want to speak freely in my beliefs and get that experience of intentionally and explicitly saying why I do what I do,” Nelson said. “I love the Lord, and I want the students to see how He loves them.”

Buller said she’d encourage any teacher who feels led to teach globally to pursue it.

“If the Lord has placed it on your heart to teach in another country, go,” Buller said. “It’s the hardest and most beautiful thing I’ve done. There are comforts you have to give up, but it is so very worth it.”

Jessica Buller (g’22). Courtesy photo.

Lauryn Paredez (g’23)

Andov, Shewey win Female & Male Athlete of the Year

Valdisa Andov (JR, Pekanbaru, Indonesia) and Vance Shewey (SO, Meade, Kan.) were selected as Female & Male Athletes of the Year at the 2022-23 Bluejay Year in Sport Awards.

Andov, a first-team, all-conference selection in golf, took third at the KCAC Women’s Championship on April 24-26 in Dodge City, Kan. She also won six of the nine tournaments she played through her junior season. It is her third top-three finish, tying for third as a freshman and taking second as a junior.

“Being selected as Female Athlete of the Year means a lot to me because it puts the golf team back at the top, and being recognized as a team that can produce great results,” Andov said. “Other than that, I’m really happy to be able to end my golf career with a memorable achievement.”

Shewey is a two-time NAIA All-American, placing as national runner-up in the high jump, leaping to 6-10.75 at the Indoor Track & Field Championships in Brookings, S.D. He also set the indoor school record with that jump at nationals.

“There are a lot of great male athletes here at Tabor, so to get selected amongst them is truly an honor,” Shewey said.

Bluejay Year in Sport Awards

Female Newcomer of the Year

Marie Seeger, Women’s Soccer

Male Newcomer of the Year

Thatcher McClure, Men’s Basketball

Unsung Hero of the Year

Jazmin Sandoval, Women’s Soccer

Bluejay Fan(s) of the Year

Harold & Darla Loewen

Breakthrough Athlete of the Year

Danielle Allison, Track & Field

Mighty Bluejay Award

Pierce Klaassen, Cross Country/Track & Field

Head Coach of the Year

Rylan Hincher, Cross Country

Female Scholar Athlete of the Year

Natalie Ford, Women’s Soccer

Male Scholar Athlete of the Year

Pierce Klaassen, Cross Country/Track & Field

Female Athlete of the Year

Valdisa Andov, Women’s Golf

Male Athlete of the Year

Vance Shewey, Men’s Track & Field

Valdisa Andov (JR, Pekanbaru, Indonesia)

Vance Shewey (SO, Meade, Kan.)

Hendricks dishing assists on and off the court

Four months between signing her letter of intent and preparing for life as a Tabor College student made for a quick turnaround for Ja’Neysha “J” Hendricks. She sifted through her plans for academics, housing and basketball, and while it was fast-paced, she began to see how God was setting her stage as a student-athlete.

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As a freshman, Hendricks recalled listening to Ryan Lee, Tabor campus pastor, as he explained what it would look like to lead a bible study.

The idea was captivating, and after meeting with Lee afterward, she began to pray about starting a bible study with her teammates.

Leading as a freshman added a unique twist, but one her head coach knew she could handle.

“One of the most amazing attributes of ‘J’ is that she is very real,” Shawn Reed said. “I have seen her share her testimony, and it is powerful. Not many people would be comfortable sharing their struggles, but she is not afraid to be honest.”

Just one year later, she is Tabor’s starting point guard, but even more meaningful is how she facilitates her teammates off the court in God’s word.

“I just can’t help but praise God,” Hendricks said. “I’ve seen my teammates grow over the last two years and enjoy it. I started it late this year, and they’d keep coming up to me and asking me when I was going to start bible study. It made me so excited that they wanted it back and to spend time together.”

Those relationships were particularly meaningful at the start of her sophomore year. With midterms approaching, Hendricks was informed that one of her uncles had passed away. Trying to sort out how she could be at home and be on campus, she was given a simple message from Reed.

“He told me I needed to go home and be with my family,” Hendricks said. “Some other people tell me stories about ‘No, you need to be back here by a certain time the day of or after the funeral.’ Coach Reed is patient and pushed me to be home and to come back when I was ready.”

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The former Topeka High Trojan was a force in high school, helping her alma mater play in two state championship games in three years. That success has continued at Tabor.

After reaching varsity at the end of her freshman season, Hendricks was one of three players to start all 28 games in 2022-23. She led the Bluejays with 2.4 assists per game and 67 for the season.

Tabor took fourth in the KCAC, finishing 18-10 overall and 16-7 in league play. With five losses by six points or less, Hendricks said the team is ready to bounce back next year.

“In those close games, we’d have two quarters that are good and two that were not” Hendricks said. “Sometimes we take the loss, understanding we played well. Now, it’s trying to stay consistent in what we do well.”

Ja’Neysha “J” Hendricks is preparing for her final season as a member of Bluejay women’s basketball.

Whitchurch begins M.B.A. in final season of college baseball

Brayden Whitchurch was content in hanging up his cleats.

After a knee injury and torn labrum at the latter stages of his career at Southwest Oklahoma State University, Whitchurch went back to his hometown of Wichita, Kan., and took a year off from baseball and started working.

Jake Jones, Tabor College assistant coach, called Whitchurch when he found out he had one more year of eligibility.

Whitchurch has had an injury-plagued career, but the opportunity to play under Tabor head coach Mark Standiford was too good to pass up. Whitchurch spent six seasons under Standiford’s leadership through Wichita Sluggers.

Upon hearing of Tabor’s M.B.A. program, Whitchurch became a Bluejay and began his postgraduate work. He plans to pursue sports marketing after finishing his degree.

“Meeting all the guys, we just clicked from the start,” Whitchurch said. “They all accepted me as a first-year guy, and the community was incredibly welcoming. Everyone here has helped out a lot.”

The Bishop Carroll graduate exploded offensively, leading Tabor in batting average (.385), hits (79), and triples (2). He also tied for the team lead in home runs (19), finishing among the top five in the KCAC in the category.

Whitchurch and teammates Cody Moore (SO, Midlothian, Texas) and Jackie Jimenez (JR, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic) anchored Tabor, all hitting (.362) or better.

“I try not to pay attention to numbers too much,” Whitchurch said. “We’ve got a lot of guys who got hot late in the year, so I tried to stay consistent and do what I could do to help my teammates.”

Having graduated high school in 2017, Whitchurch took it upon himself to help mentor Tabor’s younger players. His coaches have also expressed their confidence in the experience Whitchurch brings to the dugout.

The Bluejays centerfielder has taken pride in being a table-setter and run-producer. Knowing it is his final season, he has been able to take the pressure off as he enters the batter’s box.

“It was really quite calming,” Whitchurch said. “I wanted to go and make the most of it, and whatever happened is what happened. I enjoyed being around the game one last time.”

$29,500 per year

A Tabor20 scholarship makes it affordable for Mennonite Brethren students to attend Tabor.

Allison, Callaway and Shewey make history at NAIA Indoor Championships

Danielle Allison, Dillon Callaway and Vance Shewey became Tabor’s first trio of All-Americans at the NAIA Indoor Track & Field Championships in Brookings, S.D.

Three of six national qualifiers for the Bluejays, the trio solidified AllAmerican status by placing in the top eight of their events.

Shewey (SO, Meade, Kan.) has reached nationals in each indoor and outdoor track & field season. After finishing 15th in his first indoor trip, he shot to runner-up. Shewey broke his school record (2.10m/6-10.75) from earlier in the season.

After missing his first two attempts at 2.07m/6-9.5, Shewey kept himself in the competition by hitting his third jump. He joined the top two after hitting his second attempt at 6-10.75. Shewey was unable to convert at 2.13m/6-11.75.

He earned All-American honors for the first time in indoor track & field. “When I got to nationals last year, there were some nerves there,”

Shewey said. “Having had two trips under my belt, I knew most of the guys I was jumping against, so I was more confident in my ability to stay with them.”

Allison (JR, Oakley, Kan.) shined at nationals, finishing fifth (2:55.95) in the 1000M. The event had three heats, and the top two from each race qualified for finals. Even though she had one of the top times, she took third in her heat, forcing her to be patient to see the finalists. She was seeded seventh heading into finals.

“I was so excited to run against seven other runners that were among the best,” Allison said. “It’s a great experience to run against athletes that are that good.”

She is also now in possession of seven different records for indoor and outdoor track & field. She holds the outdoor records in the 1500M and 5000M. She holds the top indoor time in the 1000M, 1600M, 3000M and 5000M and is a part of the distance medley-relay record.

Callaway (SO, Sapulpa, Okla.) held a razor-thin margin, finishing eight-hundredths of a second from missing the finals.

The realization only added to the emotion of the moment for Callaway and his coaches. He took sixth in the finals (2:27.25), building upon an impressive second season with the Bluejays.

“Our coaches have invested a ton in all of us,” Callaway said. “I saw the emotion in their eyes, and there is that realization of ‘you did it!’ It’s just really cool to know how much they care about each of us.”

It was the first time since 2019 that multiple female athletes were represented at nationals. Brooke Wiebe (SO, Newton, Kan.) also ran the 1000M. William Colgin (JR, Canton, Kan.) made his second appearance at nationals in the triple jump, while Zack Johnson made his first trip in the weight throw.

A Look at Bluejay Basketball

• Tabor men’s basketball finished 8-20 (5-17, KCAC) under first-year head coach Matt Warren. Thatcher McClure (FR/McKinney, Texas) led the Bluejays in scoring (13.8) and rebounding (5.8). He was also an All-KCAC Honorable Mention and All-KCAC Freshman Team selection.

• The Tabor women’s basketball team finished fourth in the conference (18-10, 16-7 in KCAC), and garnered five KCAC AllConference selections. Zoe Rust (SR, McPherson, Kan.) earned first-team honors, finishing her career with over 1,200 points and 600 rebounds. Teegan Werth (SO, Hillsboro, Kan.) was named to the defensive team, while Kassidy Beam (SO, McPherson, Kan.) and Madie McCoy (JR, Wellsville, Kan.) were both selected to the third team. Kylie Arnold (FR, Salina, Kan.) was a KCAC AllFreshman Team selection. Rust was also an honorable mention NAIA All-American for a third-straight season.

(L to R) Vance Shewey, Danielle Allison, and Dillon Callaway were Tabor’s trio of All-Americans at the NAIA Indoor Track & Field Championships in Brookings, S.D.

Spring Sports Roundup

BASEBALL

The Bluejays finished third in the KCAC with a 34-18 overall record and 23-10 mark in conference play. Newcomers Jackie Jimenez, pictured (JR, C, Santo Domingo, D.R.) and Brayden Whitchurch (SR, OF, Wichita, Kan.) were both first-team, all-KCAC selections. The pair tied for the team lead in home runs with 19, while Jimenez also tallied 16 doubles and 53 RBIs. Whitchurch knocked in 56 runs, while also holding a team-high 79 hits. Cody Moore (SO, 1B, Midlothian, Texas) earned second-team honors, and was fourth in the KCAC with 69 RBIs. Trotter Boston (SO, SS, Roswell, N.M.), Cutter Smith (SR, SP, Bennett, Colo.), and Sergio Gutierrez (JR, RP, Oxnard, Calif.) also were named second-team. Honorable mention selections were given to Micah Dvorak (SO, OF, Garden City, Kan.) and Quintin Holman (SO, SP, Nebraska City, Neb.).

SOFTBALL

Tabor wrapped up the season 16-26 with a 9-13 record in conference play. Darcy Gillen, pictured (JR, 2B, Yuba City, Calif.) was Tabor’s lone first-team, all-KCAC selection. Gillen led the Bluejays in multiple categories, hitting .406, 58 total hits, and 43 RBIs. Alexa Garza (JR, RP, Devine, Texas) earned second-team honors, finishing the year 2-1 with a 3.78 ERA and 13 strikeouts over 33.1 innings. Eight Tabor players earned an honorable mention selection, including seniors Mary Yandell (1B, Moore, Okla.), Alicia Lopez (3B, Eastvale, Calif.), Jordyn Farren (UTL, Galt, Calif.), and Rachael Gray (OF, Ovilla, Texas).

MEN’S TRACK & FIELD

Tabor hosted the KCAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships this spring, finishing fourth as a team with seven individuals or relay teams placing in the top three of their events. Dillon Callaway built upon a strong indoor campaign, finishing first in the 800M, 1:56.89. Vance Shewey (SO, Meade, Kan.) won his second-straight title in the high jump with a leap of 6-10.25, and took third in the long jump, 23-8. Zack Johnson, pictured (SR, Colby, Kan.) took first in the discus, 163-4, and second in the hammer, 164-9. Dakotah Whiteley (SR, Abilene, Kan.) took second in the pole vault with a vault of 13-5.

WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD

Tabor swept the high jump at the conference meet after Jordyn Lowrie (JR, Oakley, Kan.) followed up her previous outdoor season with a championship leap of 5-3. Danielle Allison (JR, Oakley, Kan.), who already holds seven indoor and outdoor school records, won the 1500M, 4:49.10, and finished third in the 800M, 2:23.08. Brooke Wiebe, pictured (SO, Newton, Kan.) finished third in the 3000M steeplechase, 11:30.60, while the 4x800M relay team of Allison, Wiebe, Sydnee Gardner (FR, Wichita, Kan.), and Sonya Zimmerman (SO, Valley Center, Kan.) finished second, 9:50.59.

MEN’S GOLF

The Tabor men’s team finished eighth among 10 conference teams at the KCAC Championships. Andreas Aho, pictured (SO, Menahga, Minn.) was the Bluejays’ top finisher, tying for 20th at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course in Garden City, Kan. Ryan Hill (SO, Mohave Valley, Ariz.) finished 38th. Tabor will look to make a jump in the KCAC in 202324, thanks to a roster that only holds freshmen and sophomores. Luke Buckingham (SO, Wichita, Kan.) was Tabor’s selection for KCAC Champions of Character, and he joined Aho as the Bluejays’ two KCAC Scholar Athletes.

WOMEN’S GOLF

Sisters Valdisa and Valencia Andov, pictured, both earned all-KCAC conference honors. Valdisa, a junior, was a first-team selection. She earned her third top-three finish at the KCAC Championships at Buffalo Dunes Golf Course in Garden City, Kan. In her first season at Tabor, Valencia was a second-team selection and tied for 17th at the conference tournament. The sisters also finished first and second at Tabor’s home meet on March 20-21 at the Hesston Golf Course in Hesston, Kan. The older Andov sister was joined by Madison Guerra (SO, Dinuba, Calif.) and Tianna Tschetter (SO, Carpenter, S.D.) as KCAC Scholar Athletes.

MEN’S TENNIS

Tabor, winners of six of its last seven matches during the regular season, qualified for the postseason for a thirdstraight year. The regular season culminated with a 6-1 win over Evangel University (Mo.) Looking to make it to the KCAC semifinals, their quest came up just short after falling to Bethel College, 4-0. Mateo Garcia, pictured (SR, Bogota, Colombia), Tabor’s No. 1 singles player, earned an honorable mention all-KCAC selection. He was also named a KCAC Scholar Athlete. The Bluejays finished the season with a 10-8 overall record and 7-5 in conference play.

WOMEN’S TENNIS

The weather took an unfortunate toll on Tabor’s season, seeing nearly a dozen matches canceled or postponed. However, Tabor persevered with its young and upcoming roster. The Bluejays’ season was highlighted by a 7-0 win over Friends University on Senior Day. With five of its top six singles players set to return, there is much to anticipate after head coach Brian Waddell’s first season with the program. Bethany Yutzy, pictured (JR, Buhler, Kan.), Binita Sitoula (SO, Kathmandu, Nepal), and Tara Stewart (SO, Craigavon, Northern Ireland) were named KCAC Scholar Athletes.

NOTE: All sections were written as of Friday, May 12. For updated results, scores, and stories visit www.taborbluejays.com

Tabor Day returns in 2023

A pillar of Tabor College’s history returned on April 30.

After a fire destroyed its lone building on April 30, 1918, Tabor Day was first celebrated exactly two years later to commemorate the opening of two buildings that rose out of the ashes of one. What is now the H.W. Lohrenz Administration Building and Mary J. Regier Building stood as a testament to God’s grace and the resilient vision of the Tabor faithful. It was a day of commitment and faith.

The event was officially reestablished 103 years after it was first held, “Celebrating the Spirit of Tabor College.”

The inaugural Tabor Day was also Arbor Day, so trees were planted to symbolize growth, presence and hope. This year, pictured to the right, an Autumn Blaze maple was planted on the northeast corner of the library.

“Tabor Day is a day to commemorate and celebrate what God has done through Tabor,” said President David Janzen, Ph.D. “It presented an opportunity to recognize the resilience and faithfulness of those who have gone before and to carry on that legacy as we move into a promising future. The spirit of Tabor is the evidence of God’s Spirit at work transforming lives through this beautiful college and community.”

Following an address from Janzen, members of the Tabor campus joined to plant the tree. That included the president, Dr. Sarah Tham, Campus Pastor Ryan Lee, CMBS Director Peggy Goertzen, and students Alyvia Owens (JR, Hutchinson, Kan.) and David Moss (SR, Haysville, Kan.)

“The institution and buildings of Tabor are not what matters most,” Janzen said. “These are tools and a context that brings us together for something special. Tabor brings us together for a common purpose and gets us rowing in the same direction. Tabor creates a community where we can exercise our obedience to God more effectively than what we can do individually.”

A faspa lunch of zwieback, ham & cheese followed the 2 p.m. ceremony, and attendees enjoyed the Spring Oratorio Concert before an outdoor picnic beside the Tabor Student Center.

Learn more about Tabor Day, including a video by Dillon Callaway (SO, Sapulpa, Okla.), at www.tabor.edu/taborday. This story was co-written, including excerpts from Dr. Wendell Loewen, Tabor Day event chair. Archived photos courtesy of the Center for Mennonite Brethren Studies (CMBS).

Tabor’s newest residence hall named

Jost Hall

Tabor College has officially named its newest residence hall, Jost Hall, in honor of LeRoy (Lee) and Janice (Kornelson, fs’52) Jost. The project is set to be finished this summer and will be available to female students in August 2023. Jost Hall, an 86-bed facility, is the largest residence hall added to the campus since the Townhouses (78 beds) opened in 2007. Dedication will be held during the Southern District Convention Friday, July 28 at 4:30 p.m. The public is welcome to attend.

“The Jost family embodies the strength and commitment of the greater Tabor community,” said President David Janzen, Ph.D. “Over the last six decades, their giving spirit is evident in their hospitality, service, finances, and prayerful support. It is our honor to recognize them by naming Jost Hall, tying their legacy to Tabor for generations to come.”

LeRoy and Janice’s family farm near Henderson, Neb., has reached three generations. It is now run by their son Mark (fs’79) and grandson, Bret (g’10). Their passion for Christian higher education was no secret, routinely pointing students in Tabor’s direction. That includes their three sons, Mark, Steve (g’76), and Garry (g’80).

“Lee and Janice found joy in giving, sharing, and serving God with their resources,” said Ron Braun, vice president of philanthropy. “They nurtured many people throughout the 60 years I have known them, sharing Christ with others, offering encouragement to many, and contributing financially when necessary.”

Lee passed away on Dec. 3, 2022, leaving a lasting legacy in his home community and the Tabor campus. In his 29 years on the board (1968-97), he served as chairman and on the executive committee. Longtime members of Living Hope Church in Henderson, Lee and Janice were also key contributors to the construction of the Men’s Quad in the 1960s and are recognized on a plaque outside of Nebraska Hall.

LeRoy (Lee) and Janice (Kornelson, fs’52) Jost. Courtesy photo.

Students showcased at 2023 President’s Dinner

The 2023 President’s Dinner Program served as a recognition of what God has and continues to do across the greater Tabor College community.

An emphasis on the student experience highlighted the program, celebrating spiritual growth, academic achievement, and arts and athletic excellence. Over 30 students were brought to the stage, and many had the opportunity to share what made their Tabor experience special.

“I have the privilege of having a front-row seat to what is going on at Tabor,” said President David Janzen, Ph.D. “We stand in awe of how God crafts the stories of our students, and the faithful support of our donors allows us to do the work He has called us to do.”

Carson Duba (JR, Huron, S.D.) has led one of the biggest men’s bible studies on campus over the last three years. That group has multiplied, and he has also brought peers home to work at Byron Bible Camp, directed by his family near his hometown.

Sydney Ronan (FR, Hesston, Kan.) and Dr. David Faber spoke of the revitalized Honors Program, recognizing outstanding academics through the H.W. Lohrenz Scholarship. Five students in the colloquium scored 30 or higher on their ACT, showcasing the excellence of these students. (Read more about the program on page 9.)

Representatives of 16 teams attended the program, including Vance Shewey (SO, Meade, Kan.) He is an accomplished high jumper, already earning multiple All-American honors in track & field.

Janzen and Dr. Frank Johnson formally announced the Al and Dotty Warkentine Endowed Position Challenge. The one-year window seeks an additional three endowed professors by Easter 2024. (This exciting chapter of Tabor’s history is featured on pages 4-5.)

Performances included:

• The men’s quartet of William Shafer (SO, Andover, Kan.), Viggo Shafer (FR, Andover, Kan.), Zach Beachy (SO, Peoria, Ariz.), and Josh Strid (SO, Erie, Colo.)

• A duet of Elizabeth George (SR, Omaha, Neb.) and London Eichelberger (SO, Higginsville, Mo.)

• A solo from Mollie Beaver (SO, Wichita, Kan.)

• The Chamber Voices, under the direction of Brian Stranghoner, assistant professor of music education.

For more about the program, watch the entire live stream at ‘2023 Tabor College President’s Dinner Program’ on the Tabor Webcast channel on YouTube.

Take a “Journey to the Past” for Homecoming 2023

Come and journey back to your Tabor College experience at Homecoming 2023. Set for Sept. 29-30, this year’s festivities will bring back your favorite activities as you relive your days as a Bluejay.

The Homecoming Dinner, set for Sept. 29, will recognize this year’s 50-year graduates, the Class of 1973. A plated three-course meal will be served, and attendees will receive a commemorative gift.

If you’re a member of the Class of 1963, 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003, and 2013, don’t miss out on reconnecting with your graduating class.

Tabor’s Musical Theatre Production of “Anastasia” will be performed on Sept. 28, 29, and 30 in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts. Kim Klein, a longtime director for Christian Youth Theatre in Wichita, Kan., will lead this fall’s show.

Make sure your kids come ready to play. Tabor students will be leading family-friendly fun for Bluejays of all ages. Inflatables, lawn games, and other fun activities will be available.

Bring your appetites to campus as the annual Dutch Lunch will be served. The lunch will include traditional verenika with ham gravy, sausage, zwieback and cherry moos.

Tabor football will take on Bethel College on Sept. 30. The Bluejay soccer teams will host Evangel University later that evening.

For updates on tickets, and all other activities and events for Homecoming 2023, visit www.tabor.edu/homecoming.

Alumni News

Marriages

Cole and Emma (Willison, g’23) Gilbert, married in Hutchinson, Kan., on Jan. 14, 2023.

Reuven (g’18) and Anna (Fruechting, g’20) Isaac, married in Wichita, Kan., on March 19, 2023

Bruce and Hattie (Lee, g’12) Mendoza, married in Peoria, Ill., on May 7, 2023

David (g’23) and Emma (Willis, cs) Moss, married in Pretty Prairie, Kan., May 20, 2023

Births/Adoptions

Kevin and Kendra (Flaming, g’15) Friedberg, Wichita, Kan., a girl, Aubryn Vera, Oct. 4, 2022.

Jarod (g’08) and Jamie (Yoder, g’08) Richardson, Owasso, Okla., a boy, Bridger Wilson, Nov. 8, 2022.

Tom (g’17) and Mallory (Zuercher, g’16) Gaskell, Wichita, Kan., a boy, Declan Owen, Jan. 16, 2023.

Tyler (g’14) and Amy (Janzen g’15) Clements, Hillsboro, Kan., a boy, Noah Bryant, January 28, 2023

Sam (fs’17) and Karin Klein, Wichita, Kan., a girl, Winifred Lynlee, March 7, 2023.

Matthew (g’17) and Heidi (Klaassen g’18) Molden, Aurora, Colo., a girl, Zealynn Joan, March 9, 2023

Tim (g’21) and Lauren (Fox g’19) Schoeneberg, Hillsboro, Kan., a boy, Isaac Timothy, March 10, 2023

Eric (g’11) and Stephanie (Wiens, g’11) Funk, Springfield, Mo., a girl, Hazel Eloise, April 17, 2023

Andrew (g’06) and Danielle Braun, North Newton, Kan., a boy, Miles Taylor, May 13, 2023

Deaths

Jim Nickel (g’64), age 80, Lancaster, Calif., June 27, 2022

Lincoln Montgomery (ff) age 72, Wichita, Kan., Sept. 12, 2022

David Friesen (fs’73) age 69, Charlotte, N.C., Oct. 13, 2022

Hildegard (Krieger g’51) Thiessen, age 93, Wichita, Kan., Nov. 12, 2022

Dwayne Claassen (fs’63), age 79, Hillsboro, Kan., Nov. 16, 2022

Duane Warkentin (fs’77), age 63, Kingsburg, Calif., Nov. 21, 2022

Jeff Fikejs (g’84), age 62, Phoenix, Ariz., Dec. 18, 2022

Martha (Isaak g’57) Kliewer, age 87, Taylors, S.C., Dec. 21, 2022

Dean Graber (fs’56), age 86, Tulsa, Okla., Dec. 28, 2022

Noah Clements Aubryn Friedberg

Hazel Funk Declan Gaskell

Winifred Klein Zealynn Molden

Bridger Richardson Isaac Schoeneberg

Helen Fenstermacher, Martha Kliewer Lincoln Montgomery

Jim Nickel Hildegard Thiessen

Miles Braun

Mildred (Brenner fs’45) Friesen, age 97, Hillsboro, Kan., Jan. 26, 2023

Lily (Siemens fs’50) Kroeker, age 92, Reedley, Calif., Feb. 23, 2023

Dr. Orville Neufeld (g’59), age 85, Fairview, Okla., March 28, 2023

Helen (Ediger g’47) Fenstermacher, age 99, Hillsboro, Kan., April 10, 2023

Alumni News – 1970s

Don Brubacher (g’75) announced his retirement as Hillsdale College (Mi.) athletic director in November 2022, and will conclude his tenure this summer. He spent 15 years at the helm of the Charger athletic department. Hillsdale won 45 team conference titles under Brubacher’s leadership, highlighting a sustained run of success. Prior to Hillsdale, Brubacher spent 30 years at his alma mater, leading Tabor College as an administrator, professor, and coach of men’s and women’s basketball and soccer.

2010s

Zachary Lopes (g’14) was named the principal at Osawatomie Middle School in Osawatomie, Kan. He spent the last eight years at Clay Elementary (K-8) in Kingsburg, Calif., teaching/coaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. He taught English/Language Arts and History, as well as serving as athletic director and vice principal. Lopes received his master’s in Educational Leadership & Administration (K-12) at Fresno State University.

Torrey Gill (g’16) was one of four coaches named to the Las Vegas Raiders staff as part of the NFL’s Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship program. He has spent one season as an offensive graduate assistant at Oregon State, and will return in the fall. He had previous coaching stints at Whittier College (2019-21) and New Mexico State (2021-22).

2020s

Maddie Weaver (g’22), a Special Education teacher for grades K-3, and 5 at Peabody Elementary (Kan.), earned a perfect score on one of the Praxis exams she took in May 2022. Out of over 3,406 test takers, she was just one of 18 throughout the country to earn a perfect score of 200. She also earned a 199 on one of her other exams.

Toby Penner (g’22) and Wichita State men’s track & field won the American Athletic Conference Championship in Houston, Texas. He finished fourth, 51.28, in the 400-meter hurdles. The race became a specialty of Penner’s as a Bluejay, and he finished his career with top-10 finishes at the Wichita State Shocker Open, Rock Chalk Classic, Kansas Relays, and Wichita State KT Woodman Classic. Penner’s photo is courtesy of the Wichita State Athletic Department.

Zachary Lopes Toby Penner Maddie Weaver

400 South Jefferson Hillsboro, KS 67063

Change Service Requested

Please contact us if your address is incorrect: advancement@tabor.edu

Calendar of Events

July 28 Jost Hall Dedication

Aug. 15 Fall Semester Begins

Sept. 30 Homecoming 2023

Nov. 20-24 Thanksgiving Break

Nov. 27-Dec. 1 Festival of Christmas

Dec. 3 Handel’s Messiah

Dec. 11-Jan. 8 Christmas Break

For a complete list of upcoming events, please visit our calendar online at www.tabor.edu/calendar. Athletic schedules are available at www.taborbluejays.com.

Tabor College Connection