Summer 2017 • Vol. 71 / No. 3
Inside:
Graduate Profiles Sports Update
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Grand Finale
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From the President
Follow along with Dr. Glanzer’s travels and campus events on Twitter. /presglanzer
I write these words just after presiding over the 107th Commencement of Tabor College. As my eyes locked with each student to whom I gave a diploma, my heart was filled with a deep sense of satisfaction. The stewardship of the lives that were placed in our hands over the past one to five years has come to an end. Our prayer and hope are that they have been prepared for a life of learning, work and service for Christ and His kingdom. On one hand, our work is complete. However, I realized that on the other hand, our influence has only begun. The faith, knowledge, character, truth and values that we have imparted will continue to influence them for their entire lives. The academically excellent, life transforming, globally relevant and decidedly Christian education that each of them received will now be lived out in a world that is increasingly hostile to the vision and values of the eternal. The Tabor experience, complete with a degree in a discipline of their choosing, will now serve as a platform for a lifetime of learning, work and service. My deep prayer is that they have each caught the importance of living a Godarranged life not for themselves but for the sake of others. I hope that they have caught the significance of living a life of service, giving themselves away to others making the world more as God intended it to be.
As President Coolidge once said, “No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.” I hope that each of our graduates will experience this honor that only comes from giving ourselves away to that which is greater than ourselves. And, if these newly minted graduates will live such a life, then Tabor will have been successful in our endeavor. I also want to take this opportunity to thank our constituency for their generosity to Tabor. I am humbled and deeply touched by the outpouring of the gifts of our extended community. The Signature Campaign has crossed the $17.7 million mark with $12.8 million earmarked for the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts. The Grand Finale continues to inspire people to help us build the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts debt-free. From the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for your participation in the largest endeavor in Tabor’s history. Thank you for your partnership in providing a place where the entire Tabor community can gather for worship and learning. Thank you for your prayers for safety for the workers, wisdom for the planners, and strength for those giving leadership to the project. Thanks to you, our influence in the lives of our students continues to be great.
President Jules Glanzer 2
Connection Summer 2017 Vol. 71 No. 3 A magazine for Tabor College alumni & friends Editor Amy Doane amydoane@tabor.edu Writer Bailey Kaufman
inside
2 From the President 4 Tabor Arts 9 Graduate Profiles
Contributor Aleen Ratzlaff aleenr@tabor.edu
11 Commencement 2017
Senior Designer Diane Steiner dianes@tabor.edu
16 Sports Report
14 Adult and Graduate Studies 17 New Faculty
Photographer/Webmaster Vance Frick vancef@tabor.edu
18 Scholarship Dinner
Student Photographers Courtney Schmidt Austin Calam
20 Alumni News
Sports Information Director Mark Fox markfox@tabor.edu Tabor College 400 South Jefferson Hillsboro, Kansas 67063 (620) 947-3121 tabor.edu Tabor College Mission: “Preparing people for a life of learning, work and service for Christ and His kingdom.” @TaborCollege /TaborCollege /taborcollege /taborcollege /company/tabor-college /taborcollege Tabor Webcast
19 Grand Finale
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Board of Directors: Lyndon Vix Chair Diana Raugust Vice Chair Theodore Faszer Secretary Brent Kroeker Treasurer Darrell Driggers Executive At Large Craig Ratzlaff Executive At Large
Loren Balzer Executive At Large Jose Cabrera Roger Ediger Rick Eshbaugh Jeral Gross Mark Jost David Karber Kelly Kirby Mike Kleiber Jerry Kliewer Lisa Kroeker Bill Loewen
Nate Loewen Dean Nachtigall Deborah Penner Faculty Representative Dennis Penner Elaine Setzer-Maxwell Tim Sullivan Wilbur Unrau Richard Unruh Molly Wiebe Faber Student Representative 3
Tabor Arts Performs “A Doll’s House” Tabor Arts performed Henrik Ibsen’s “A Doll’s House” March 8-11 as its annual spring theater selection. The drama, set in Norway in 1895, tells the story of Nora Helmer, portrayed by Molly Wiebe Faber, a senior from Hillsboro. Nora is keeping a scandalous secret from her husband, Torvald, played by Rueven Isaac, a junior from Wichita. She struggles to maintain a façade of perfect wife and mother while concealing her actions. When her secret is discovered, her identity and that of her husband crumble under the pressure. “Ibsen believed that institutions should exist to serve individuals, not the other way around,” said Laurel Koerner, director of theater at Tabor. “His writing explores the subjects of marriage, gender roles and societal expectations.” The drama, which premiered in 1879 at the Royal Theatre in Copenhagen, Denmark, is based on the life of a friend of Ibsen’s. At the time it was written Ibsen was often criticized for his controversial portrayal of the traditional roles of men and women. “These are complex characters, and the writing is rich with layers of meaning to be unpacked,” Koerner said. “For an actor, it’s a difficult, but hopefully deeply satisfying process.” Alisa Ediger, a senior from Aurora, Colo., as Kristine, agreed that the complexity of the show made it fascinating to study and perform. “It’s crazy how a show from 1879 is still so applicable today,” Ediger said. “This show reminds me that there are two sides to every coin. The villain and the hero may not be as different as we would think, but that’s life. It’s messy and it’s beautiful.” Ten actors including three children made up the cast of the show, which takes place entirely in the Helmer apartment. In addition to Wiebe Faber, Isaac and Ediger, the cast also included freshman Megan Tschohl, from Andover, Kan., as Helene; freshman Anna Fruechting, from Newton, Kan., as Anna; sophomore Cody Kroeker, from Henderson, Neb., as Nils Krogstad; and post-baccalaureate student
Michael Adamyk of McPherson, Kan., as Dr. Jens Rank. Sam and Ben Werner, sons of John and Sarah Werner of Hillsboro, and Emelia Koerner played the Helmer children.
Chapel, H.W. Lohrenz Building Wednesday, Oct. 18 – Saturday, Oct. 21 4
Choir Completes Tour with Home Concert Tabor College Concert Choir wrapped up a successful spring break tour of Colorado and California with its home concert April 2 at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church. Director Bradley Vogel and his students shared their music under the theme “Sing Me to Heaven,” the title of the concert’s penultimate song. “Overall, the selections represent music as a gift from God,” Vogel said. “The texts of the songs are either drawn from biblical passages that record scenes in heaven, or speak of the heavenly origin of music, either as God’s creation or resulting from God’s work in our lives.” The Concert Choir’s repertoire for the program ranged from spirituals, such as “Music Down in My Soul,” to traditional hymns,
including “His Eye Is on the Sparrow” and “Holy, Holy, Holy,” to an international flavor including “Muusika,” sung in Estonian. The choir of 40 students from five states performed in seven churches and one school while on the road. The ensemble travels each year during spring break and every four years to the West Coast. In addition to performing, the group visited the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Denver and explored Sequoia National Park. Throughout the tour, churches and Tabor alumni hosted the choir. “Our annual spring tour is a culmination of a year of hard work,” Vogel added. “The students immensely enjoyed traveling and performing. Our desire is to share joy and inspire audiences through music.”
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Symphonic Band Concert April 23 Tabor Arts presented the Tabor College Symphonic Band home concert April 23 at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church. The concert included selections from well-known composers such as Copland, Monteverdi, Mozart and Schubert. “Our final concert of the year featured several soloists and included music from the stage and screen,” said Shawn Knopp, assistant professor of instrumental music, “The Symphonic Band performed music from Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, and Disney film favorites.” The concert recognized seniors Kaitlyn Rempel, from Fairview, Okla., on flute; Alex Janzen, from Morro Bay, Calif., on euphonium; and Michael Beye, from Inman, Kan., on tuba. Rempel performed Robert W. Smith’s “In a Gentle Rain.” Two special guests joined the ensemble. Glenn Litke, a Tabor College alumnus and vocalist, and Kyle Hopkins, director of bands at McPherson College, have extensive experience in Kansas and around the U.S. performing and teaching. “Glenn Litke performed selections from Aaron Copland’s Old American Songs accompanied by the Tabor College Symphonic Band,” Knopp said. “The Symphonic Band accompanied Kyle Hopkins as he performed ‘Three Contrasts for Solo Horn and Wind Ensemble’ by Claude T. Smith. This work is cast in three movements—Intrada, Serenade and Scherzo—and premiered in 1977 with the composer conducting.”
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Hopkins has performed with Mannheim Steamroller, Celtic Women, the Topeka Symphony and the Kansas City Philharmonic. Before working at McPherson College, Hopkins taught in McPherson public schools for 12 years and previously to that in Topeka and Shawnee Mission schools. He has been a member of the South Central Kansas Music Educators Association and has served as the district’s jazz chair. Litke has sang with Nebraska Choral Arts Society, Nebraska Opera Ensemble, Voices of Omaha, Lynchburg Virginia Fine Arts Society and Reno Choral Society in Hutchinson, Kan. He has served as conductor of the Tabor College Chorale and Concert Choir, conductor of the Liberty University Concert Choir in Lynchburg, Va., and director of vocal ensembles at Grace College of the Bible in Omaha, Neb.
“You Are Special” Performance by Concerto Bella Voce Tabor Arts presented “You Are Special” from Concerto Bella Voce. The women’s vocal ensemble performed their home concert May 7 at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church. “You Are Special” by Max Lucado inspired the concert selections. “The book is about someone who feels bad based on what others think of him until he realizes the only opinion that matters is God’s,” said Jen Stephenson, director of vocal studies. “All of our pieces tied into the theme of the book, which is about unconditional love.” Students in the choir communicated the story to the audience
through song and as dramatic readings by each member of the ensemble. Of the 13 pieces they performed, five were in Hebrew and one in Spanish, and all were memorized. Students in Concerto Bella Voce are not necessarily expecting careers in performing arts when they graduate. The women are from all majors and areas of campus. Stephenson saw personal achievement by each of the women. “The ladies really worked hard on the music and on improving their individual voices, and it showed,” said Stephenson.
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Vogel Debuts Five Original Pieces Tabor College’s professor of music and director of choral activities premiered five new compositions this spring. The compositions are the fruits of Bradley Vogel’s partial sabbatical this year. “I applied for a sabbatical with the idea of doing some composing,” Vogel said. “I had some teachers ask if I’d be interested in writing music for their choirs.” Vogel picked 20 choirs and sent an email to the directors asking if they would like him to write something for their choir. He was expecting to receive four or five responses. “Within a day, I had 18 responses,” Vogel said.
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“I had to pick and choose who I would go with. I made my decisions based on what types of special events they were doing.” In February, “A Dream is like an Angel” premiered at the Kansas Music Educators Association State Convention. The composition includes treble choir, piano, English horn and cello, and Vogel wrote original text for the piece. It was written for former Tabor faculty Janie Brokenicky and the Flint Hills Children’s Chorus. Vogel’s second composition, “The Trumpet Shall Sound,” was performed by the Concordia High School choir and also debuted at Kansas Music Educators Association. The piece is written for mixed chorus, piano and trumpet, and includes text from 1 Corinthians and 1 Thessalonians. The Hillsboro High School mixed chorus gave the first performance of “Lord, Hear My Voice” in March. This piece, based on text from Psalm 102, 130, 51 and 36, includes a mixture of English and Latin. McPherson High School women’s chorus debuted “Untamed,” with text written by MHS student Emma Ellet. “When in Our Music God is Glorified,” centered on the hymn by Fred Pratt Green, was performed by the Garden City High School mixed choir in celebration of the choir director’s retirement. Vogel wrote a third stanza for the special commemoration. In addition, Vogel finished an arrangement of “Bound for the Promised Land,” which he dedicated to this year’s Tabor College Concert Choir and was performed at commencement. Vogel started composing in the last week of August 2016 and finished during the last week of January 2017. He said he compares his composing process to “trying to capture air in a bottle.” “I think through the text and the rhythmic flow of the words,” Vogel said. “I think about how it moves and the emotion, then I find the melodies that make sense. To me, it’s problem solving and it’s patience.”
A Purpose-driven Life
2017 Graduate Profile: Maggie Ramirez
Maggie Ramirez came to Tabor to play basketball, but her memories and growth as a Bluejay ended up extending far beyond the basketball court. For the 2017 Communications graduate from St. James, Minn., Tabor was her second collegiate home. During her first two years of college, Ramirez attended a public university in Wisconsin. However, when she decided she needed a change, she began looking for a place to play basketball. “I really wanted to play basketball, and I remember talking to my grandpa about it,” she said. “He’s a Tabor graduate, and he introduced me to the program at Tabor. We looked at it online, and it looked like a program that I thought I would fit into.” In addition, Ramirez transitioned from a science major to communications. “I think I have a strength of communicating with people and relating to others, and I’m interested in friendships and
“I found a really great group of friends in the townhouse I lived in,” she said. “I also found a really great mentor, and God worked through them to help me grow and to help me finally believe in myself.” holding relationships with people,” she said. “After meeting with Dr. (Aleen) Ratzlaff and going through the curriculum, communications seemed like something I wanted to learn about and study.” Despite this, Ramirez said she still felt unsure about her purpose during her first few months at Tabor. “I wasn’t sure where I wanted my life to go or if I even wanted to accept Jesus into my life,” she said. However, Ramirez said, the relationships she developed during that time opened her heart to her true purpose. “I found a really great group of friends in the townhouse I lived in,” she said. “I also found a really great mentor, and God worked through them to help me grow and to help me finally believe in myself.” Ramirez said she is now leaving Tabor with many wonderful memories, such as making the final shot at basketball senior night, being involved with the Multicultural Student
Union, running for the cross country team, improving her writing skills, and taking trips to Druber’s Donuts in Newton with friends. “Those are things I won’t forget,” she said. Academically, Ramirez said, she enjoyed all of her classes, but she especially liked Ratzlaff’s Intercultural Communication class and Dr. Del Gray’s Life and Teachings of Jesus class. “(Intercultural Communication) gave me an overview of different cultures and the way other cultures communicate,” she said. “It helped me think about culture in a different way and changed my attitude about other countries. And I loved learning about Jesus and the things he did and taught from Del.” Ramirez said that in addition to the professors, she has learned from her fellow students. “Tabor has such a variety of students who have strengths in a variety of different things, like math, English or chemistry,” she said. “It’s neat to attend a liberal arts school where so many people have different talents and are willing to share those talents with others and to be so helpful.” Ramirez said she hopes to take her education and experiences from Tabor to eventually pursue a law degree. “I want to be a lawyer in family law and advocate for abused communities, especially women and children,” she said. Upon graduation, she plans to attend graduate school in Minnesota.
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The Music Man
2017 Graduate Profile: Michael Beye
Students come to Tabor College for different reasons. Some have never heard of the college until their senior year of high school, while others grow up with family stories about Tabor. For 2017 graduate Michael Beye, Tabor College was a prominent option because of his Mennonite Brethren background. “Tabor always had a huge presence at Southern District events, so it was always on my radar,” he said. Beye’s older brother attended Tabor and encouraged him to schedule a visit. However, as a high school senior, Beye said the most compelling aspect of Tabor was the college’s genuine care for him. “In high school, I never really took my academics very seriously, and
most colleges wouldn’t give me a second glance,” he said. “But Tabor was the opposite. They actually wanted me to attend and wanted me to be part of their community.” As a music major, Beye was not only able to improve his academic effort while in college, but he was able to pursue something he was gifted in. “Music is the direction I’ve seen God pointing me most throughout my life,” he said. “I honestly don’t think I could have done anything else in college. Getting a degree in music gives me so much joy and excitement, but best of all it allows me to worship God through a deeper learning and study of music.” At the end of his sophomore year, he stepped in to a leadership role with one of Tabor’s campus ministries, Share, Prayer & Dare. “Leading SP&D was one of my greatest experiences at Tabor, and I felt God really teaching me about myself and what he wants from my life,” Beye said. “It helped me discover my love of service and how to use it for God’s kingdom.”
“Music is the direction I’ve seen God pointing me most throughout my life,” he said. “I honestly don’t think I could have done anything else in college. Getting a degree in music gives me so much joy and excitement, but best of all it allows me to worship God through a deeper learning and study of music.” He said most of his favorite memories at Tabor revolve around his involvement with SP&D. In addition to serving on campus, Beye was able to be an intern under worship pastor David Martens at Parkview Mennonite Brethren Church. “I learned so much about being a worship leader and pastor,” Beye said. “(David) really became someone that I look up to and I really see him as a role model for my life.” Beye hopes to become a worship leader at a church. “I also want to get certified to repair instruments and tune pianos in addition to working at a church,” he said. Beye said his experience in leading worship both on and off campus has given him a solid foundation to follow his dream. “Tabor has given me a lot of experience working in a church and playing in multiple ensembles,” he said. “I learned a lot about music and how to organize and lead a group. Ultimately, I was able to learn about who God made me to be.”
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Roger Camping Chosen as Tabor Commencement Speaker Tabor College welcomed alumnus Roger Camping at its 107th Commencement to address 2017 graduates. Camping earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and economics from Tabor in 1976. Camping’s life and career have exemplified Tabor’s mission to prepare people for a life of learning, work and service for Christ and his kingdom. His address, titled “Relationships...Building Something Great,” reflected on his time at Tabor and the relationships he built. “I want to impress upon these students that even though they are only in their 20s they should never underestimate the relationships they have and the seeds they’ve planted,” Camping said. “Relationships are invaluable throughout your life. The first and most important relationship is with God.” Camping used examples from his own life as well as the biblical figure Nehemiah to illustrate how relationships build excellence. “Nehemiah was called by God to rebuild the wall,” Camping said. “But without the relationships he had with the king, the suppliers, the construction crews, etc., he never would have been successful. God has called us to relationships and he uses those to create opportunities for success.” President Jules Glanzer welcomed Camping to campus for this special experience for Tabor graduates. “Over the years it has become a custom to invite successful graduates to speak at out commencement ceremonies,” Glanzer said. “We have had graduates from education, science, Bible, ministry and business speak at commencement. We are honored to have Roger come and speak at our commencement. His wealth of experience serves as an inspiration to our graduates.” Upon completing his time at Tabor, Camping worked for several automobile dealerships in his hometown of Phoenix before establishing his own company, RC Auto Corp., in 1981. Today RC Auto represents more than 16,000 clients and leases and sells all makes and models of cars and trucks. In 1990, Camping helped start a non-profit educational Christian radio station in Prescott, Ariz. He served as founder and chair of the board for Radio Shine 90.9 FM for 25 years.
One of the most important relationships in Camping’s life has been with his wife, Paula, of 38 years. They are proud parents of three sons and one daughter and grandparents to 12. His son, Ryan, also graduated from Tabor and now works as a police officer in Canada.
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Tabor College Celebrates 107th Commencement Class representatives from both Hillsboro and Wichita spoke to the graduTabor College held its 107th Commencement on May 20. More than ates giving their perspective. 2,000 parents, family and friends gathered at Joel H. Wiens Stadium and Celeste Worthy from Hillsboro, Ore., earned a bachelor’s degree in business via live stream on Tabor Webcast to celebrate with the graduates. administration and marketing. She encouraged graduates that while they may Of the 177 graduates from Tabor, 114 earned degrees at the Hillsboro not be the same person they were when they started at Tabor, the best is yet to campus while 63 completed degrees at Wichita and online. Of those, 20 come. individuals earned master’s degrees in areas “All the lessons you’ve learned, all the skills of business, ministry or nursing. you’ve developed and all the passions you’ve President Jules Glanzer welcomed the “All the lessons you’ve learned, all ignited are now the building blocks for your graduates and attendees, honoring the goal the skills you’ve developed and glorious future,” Worthy said. “And ultimately, they achieved through hard work and comthe people and the experiences here have pointed mitment to their education. all the passions you’ve ignited are to the God who loves endlessly, strengthens con“Completing a college degree is a major tinually and empowers the fearful to soar.” milestone,” Glanzer said. “These young people now the building blocks for your Aaron Duvall, from Circleville, Ohio, earned have worked and sacrificed to earn these hona Master of Arts in Entrepreneurial Ministry ors and I am proud of their achievements.” glorious future,” Celeste Worthy Leadership. He spoke on behalf of graduates Glanzer noted that this time of year is said. “And ultimately, the people from Tabor College Wichita and Online, sharing always a bittersweet one for him. his experience with the community he found at “Tabor’s faculty and staff are so pleased and the experiences here have Tabor. with whom these individuals have become,” “Tabor understands we are created to be he said. “We’ve seen growth and change, and pointed to the God who loves in community, and we learn better in communow we watch them go out into the world to nity,” Duvall said. “Our success is a testament share their knowledge and skills with others. endlessly, strengthens continually to Tabor’s ability to cultivate community even They have given us the gift of their time, and and empowers the fearful to soar.” when distance could be an obstacle.” we are grateful to have shared in a short part Roger Camping, a 1976 graduate of Tabor, of their lives.” gave the commencement address to graduates. At a reception held on Friday, Alex Janzen of Morro Bay, Calif., and Tena Loewen from Hillsboro, Kan., were Camping reflected on the many relationships he built while he was at Tabor and urged graduates not to take those for granted. awarded the Larry and Elaine Nikkel Service Award. “Why talk about all these relationships?” Camping asked. “Because no matTwo graduates were recognized with the Professor Fran Jabara ter what course in life you take, they will be essential and you’ll build someLeadership Award, which is given to graduates of four-year, private colthing great if you cultivate relationships.” leges in Kansas. The 2017 recipients from Tabor were Alisa Ediger from He demonstrated this point by sharing the story of Nehemiah. Aurora, Colo., and John Jedneak from Princeton, Minn. “Alisa and John exemplify what we hope Tabor graduates will become Camping noted all the relationships that God put in Nehemiah’s life to help rebuild his city’s wall. when they step foot on campus,” Glanzer said.
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“Through 32 verses in Chapter 3, family after family, clan after clan, group after group, 100s if not 1,000s of people pitched in and the wall was done in 52 days,” Camping said. Later Camping noted that the most important connection of Nehemiah’s was his relationship with God. “Here’s why I wanted you to hear what a man like Nehemiah went through and how he responded,” Camping said. “His attitude was preset. He didn’t have to think twice about his purpose or who he worked for. Are you
prepared for greatness? Is your attitude one of God’s view of your life?” Following the presentation of diplomas and hooding ceremony, Glanzer made a final remark for graduates and their families. “Tabor is a special place where learning, work and service aren’t just a mission statement, but something we measure,” he said. “I hope our graduates look back at this time in their lives and see how Tabor has impacted the call God has placed on their hearts to learn from, work for and serve others in their future.”
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New Nurses Honored by TCW Tabor College Wichita held its annual nurse pinning ceremony on May 21 at First Mennonite Brethren Church in Wichita. Twenty-eight students completed BSN degrees and 11 participated in the ceremony. Nurse pins have a long history dating back to the influence of Florence Nightingale. Because of the iconic figure, hospitals recognized the need for nurse training and began developing programs. The pins and ceremony symbolize the completion of the educational requirements that allow nurses to sit for state licensure. Early traditions in England and the U.S. awarded new nurses with badges. Schools eventually began customizing pins with symbolic elements. TCW’s pin includes the cross, stalks of wheat, an interlocking TC and a lamp.
The cross is the foundation of the pin in the same way that Christian faith is the foundation of the RN-BSN graduates and nursing care provided. The second element, wheat, surrounds the pin. First brought to Kansas by Mennonite Russians, wheat is symbolic of the Mennonite heritage of Tabor College. The interlocking TC, associated with Tabor since its founding in 1908, relays the strength of tradition found at Tabor College. Lastly, the lamp is associated with the founder of modern nursing, Florence Nightingale.
Learn. Work. Serve.
2017 Graduate Profile: Danelle Vogt When looking for options to pursue her Master in Business Administration, Danelle Vogt knew she wanted a school that integrated Christianity into coursework. As a 2009 graduate of Tabor’s Hillsboro campus, she was aware of the MBA program at the Wichita campus. The program’s concentrations, along with its emphasis on faith and business, sealed the deal for her next step in education. Vogt said her experience at Hillsboro also led her to choose to continue her education with Tabor. “During undergrad, my professors were very supportive, so I knew I would get that same level of relationship in graduate school,” she said. “They challenged me in my learning, and since I was an online student, challenged my discipline.”
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During her time at Tabor College Wichita, Vogt took classes associated with leadership, including ethics, operations and strategies. “Each of these classes went in-depth and built the methods of leadership and what it takes to be an effective leader,” she said. “I have a better understanding of my personal aspects of leadership and the strengths I bring to the table.” As part of the integration of faith and business, Vogt said her professors encouraged students to look at not only companies and strategies, but to reflect on themselves and their gifts as well. “I have compassion for others and a desire to combine faith with my career,” she said. “Tabor has taught me both can be achieved with a foundation built on God and the skills to follow his path.” Ultimately, Vogt hopes to work at a children’s hospital, and she said her coursework in the MBA program has prepared her to be a leader in healthcare.
Ford New Head of Nursing at Tabor College Wichita Staci Ford has been named director of nursing programs for Tabor College Wichita. Ford brings 20 years of experience in nursing and instruction to the position. Most recently Ford has been on faculty at Hesston College and has served as an adjunct professor for Tabor’s nursing program for the past year. Ford started in her new position in April. “We’re thrilled to have Staci join our team,” said Tom Shaw, vice president of the Wichita campus and dean of adult and graduate studies. “We’ve enjoyed having Staci as a valuable part of our adjunct faculty, and this change is an obvious next step for our program.” In addition to her teaching experience, Ford has practiced nursing in home health, public health, labor and delivery and neonatal intensive care. “Staci’s background provides a wide variety of experiences for our students to draw on as they think through their own careers,” Shaw said. In her role, Ford oversees nursing curriculum and faculty
as well as maintains Tabor’s accreditation status. The college administration hopes to expand its nursing program to offer more undergraduate options. Ford will work toward adding curriculum for students at the Hillsboro campus. Tabor College President Jules Glanzer saw Ford as the right person for the job. “I am thankful that Staci has joined the faculty and staff at Tabor to provide leadership to the nursing program,” Glanzer said. “Her experience and vision for what our nursing programs can become is inspiring.” Ford earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Central Oklahoma and a master’s degree with a focus in nursing education from Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center. She is working toward a doctorate in education from Concordia University in Portland, Ore.
Tabor College Wichita & Online EARN A MASTER’S IN
MINISTRY • BUSINESS • NURSING Tabor College Hillsboro graduates receive 40-50% off tuition* 316-729-6333 • learn@tabor.edu tabor.edu/online *Offer is good through the Fall of 2019
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SPRING SPORTS UPDATES Follow Bluejay Sports on Twitter @GoTaborBluejays
Women’s Basketball
The Tabor College women’s basketball team concluded another successful season with a run into the national tournament, where they lost in the second round to top seeded University of St. Francis. The Jays ended with a 27-7 overall mark, 18-4 in the KCAC. Tena Loewen capped her career with Honorable Mention All-American recognition. Six Bluejays were named NAIA Academic Scholar-Athletes and the team dotted the AllKCAC lists with numerous honorees.
Men’s Basketball
Tabor College men’s basketball reached post-season heights not seen in many years as they advanced to the Elite Eight of the NAIA National Tournament, losing to the defending National Champions by two points. Lance Carter was named to the first team All-American team, and Julian Winton was an Honorable Mention recipient. Carter will also leave Tabor as the schools leading scorer and assist man, while placing second on the career rebounding list. The men’s team placed multiple players on the KCAC post-season list.
Baseball
The women’s tennis team had a successful run this spring as they ended the KCAC portion of their schedule, 6-2, and advanced to the conference tournament where they lost to Southwestern College in a heartbreaking 4-5 match. Individually, Jessica Emoto was named a first team All-American and was honored by the Arthur Ashe Foundation as a recipient of its Leadership and Sportsmanship award. Celeste Worthy, Heidi Klaassen and Emoto were named as All-American Scholar-Athletes.
In a year riddled with injuries to an already short-handed unit, the men continued to compete and represent Tabor well. They finished the KCAC schedule with a 3-5 record, losing two matches by 4-5 scores, so they were very close to having a winning record in conference. Individually, Illia Filanchuk was an AllKCAC performer and was named a second team All-American.
The Bluejays, led by Coach Mark Standiford, enjoyed another season of success. The team finished second to No. 3 ranked OKWU in the KCAC portion of their schedule. They also finished second to OKWU in the conference tournament and were once again selected to compete in the Opening Round of the AvistaNAIA College World Series. In the Opening Round, the Bluejays went 3-2, defeating top-seeded Clarke University along the way, before falling to No. 9 Missouri Baptist in the Championship game. The Jays ended the season 44-17. Caleb Richard, Jaxson Hooge and Graham Wiebe were named NAIA Scholar Athletes.
Swimming
Track
Softball
Women’s Tennis
The Tabor College women’s and men’s swim teams wrapped up another historic season. The women’s team scored points for the first time in school history at the NAIA Swimming & Diving National Championship, finishing 22nd overall. The men placed 20th. School records were broken throughout the season, and Coach Nathan Duell looks forward to the continued growth of his program as both teams bring back a majority of swimmers.
Men’s Tennis
The Tabor men placed fourth at the KCAC Championships and landed four individuals on the NAIA Track and Field Scholar-Athlete list. A highlight of the season may have been seeing 11 athletes break PR’s at the Tabor Invitational. For the women, Alyssa Windle and Amy Horner paced the way by earning All-American honors. The team also placed four on the ScholarAthlete list, and finished sixth at the KCAC Championship meet.
The Tabor softball team reached unprecedented heights this season as they eclipsed the 30-win mark for the first time in school history. They also advanced to the KCAC championship game where they fell to KWU, 2-0. The team landed six on the All-KCAC team, led by freshman pitcher Madison Byrd. Byrd garnered Pitcher of the Week honors three times throughout the season. Kerrigan Travens and Brianna Quiroz were named NAIA Scholar-Athletes.
New Faculty on Campus Ginger Becker will serve part-time as assistant professor of education. Becker comes to Tabor following a 27-year career with Marion-Florence Public Schools as an elementary teacher. Teaching comes naturally to Becker. Ginger Becker Staci Janzen Steve Smith Lara Vanderhoof She has been a youth leader since 1980, a high school Sunday school teacher, leads a book club for women in Asia including an environmental science trip to Indonesia, a Thailandher church and visits the Marion County Jail for a weekly Bible study. based service trip with Habitat for Humanity and a trip to Sri Lanka, India Becker earned degrees from Tabor College and Kansas State University. and Nepal to work with orphanages and impoverished communities. She has been married to her husband, Kent, for more than 45 years. They have Smith earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from East Carolina two sons and four grandchildren. University, a master of divinity from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and a doctorate in education from Liberty University. His docStaci Janzen will change roles to become assistant professor of toral research focused on identifying predictor variables that influence business administration. Janzen has worked at Tabor for the past three academic motivation in cross-cultural students. Over the past six years, he years as the executive assistant to the president. In addition to her posihas coached softball and soccer and looks forward to being able to watch tion at Tabor, Janzen chairs the marketing committee for the annual American football this fall. Smith and his wife, Holly, have two sons. Kansas Author Dinner hosted by Kappa Kappa Gamma Wichita Alumni Association. She has worked as a freelance communication consultant Lara Vanderhoof returns to Tabor as an assistant professor of social since 2015. Janzen will teach business marketing and research courses as work. Vanderhoof taught in the Department of Social Work from 2010 well as lead the business club and special projects for the department. to 2014. Since that time she has been working at the McPherson/Marion Janzen earned a bachelor’s degree in advertising and master’s degree county Early Childhood Program as the assistant director for families in journalism and mass communications research from Kansas State and community service. She brings 25 years of experience in the indusUniversity. She serves at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church as a try to the position. Vanderhoof is a co-founder of McPherson Set Free, Sunday school teacher and nursery volunteer. She and her husband, an anti-human trafficking organization, and McPherson Offender Victim Jimmy, have two children. Ministries, a restorative justice program for youthful offenders. Vanderhoof earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work Steve Smith will join the faculty as assistant professor of education. from Roberts Wesleyan College and a doctorate in social work from Smith comes to Tabor from Bangkok, Thailand, where he taught chemisCapella University. In her spare time, Vanderhoof serves on her church’s try and environmental science at International Community School. He has conference board as the mission chair and teaches adult classes. She and nearly 10 years of experience teaching high school courses at international her husband, Doug, have been married nearly 20 years. They have two schools in Singapore and Thailand. He has led several trips throughout children.
Clarence R. Hiebert Excellence in Teaching Award The 2016-2017 Clarence Hiebert Faculty Award winner was Rick Bartlett, director of theological education at Tabor College Wichita. He was recognized at Tabor's Honors Convocation in May. This award is given annually to the faculty member who best exemplifies the qualities of excellent teaching at Tabor College. These qualities include a strong Christian commitment, record of excellence in teaching, as shown by peer and student reviews, evidence of integrating faith and learning and commitment to Tabor College as an institution, as shown in support of departments outside one’s own area.
Staff Excellence Award Susan Lehrman, assistant registrar, was named as the inaugural recipient of the Staff Excellence Award at the Appreciate Banquet in May. The award is given to the staff member who best exemplifies the qualities of excellent contribution at Tabor College. These qualities include a strong Christian commitment as evidenced by the integration of faith into work; a clear record of excellence in achievement and performance, community focus and workplace creativity, and customer service. Lehrman has served Tabor for 30 years and will retire in the fall of 2017. 17
Tabor Hosts Annual Scholarship Dinner Tabor held its annual scholarship dinner on May 5 at Hillsboro Mennonite Brethren Church. The event is meant as a thank you to families who sponsor endowed scholarships for Tabor College students. This year, the dinner was open to those who have also given to the Tabor Fund, the fund for general scholarships. “This dinner is an important event for our students,” said Ron Braun, vice president of advancement. “Every student at Tabor receives financial aid, many of them from endowed or Tabor Fund scholarships. We couldn’t support our students’ education without the generous donations from those who give to scholarships.” Students are seated with the families who have given to scholarships they receive so they have a chance to learn more about one another. Throughout the evening students perform music selections and give testimonies of their time at Tabor. Shawn Knopp, Tabor’s assistant professor of instrumental music, conducted a woodwind quartet and brass ensemble in two pieces. Rachael Morris, a senior from Kansas City, Kan., performed a worship song. Maryn Robson, a junior from Sterling, Kan., played a piano solo from her recent recital. John Jedneak, a senior from Princeton, Minn., shared his story of coming from hard life experiences to Tabor. Jedneak said he found his passion and purpose at Tabor and credited a mentor from his
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hometown as well as peers and faculty at Tabor for helping him. Matthew Molden, a senior from Aurora, Colo., expressed his thanks to the donors at the event. He came to Tabor after looking at several schools, but knowing God was calling him to be in Hillsboro. Molden says he came thinking he was sure in his faith and convictions. He realized after being challenged through classes and conversations at Tabor, he had more to learn and now feels much more confident to share Christ with others. Junior Heidi Klaassen, from Arkansas City, Kan., shared her experience as well. Klaassen comes from a long line of Tabor alumni and knew from an early age that she wanted to be a Bluejay. While she made the decision early in her life, it was not until she arrived on campus that she began to learn what she wanted to do with her life. “This opportunity for connection and reflection always inspires me as an employee and we hope it also inspires those who attend this dinner,” said Braun. “It is incredible to see how these students have grown and what they’ve accomplished in their short time at Tabor.” In 2016 Tabor awarded about $7.6 million in aid to students through endowed scholarships, general scholarships and unfunded aid. Nearly 100 endowed scholarships are awarded. One of those is the Timothy James Harder Memorial Scholarship sponsored by Keith and Judy Harder. As part of the dinner program, the Harders shared memories of their involvement at Tabor. The couple grew up knowing and loving Tabor, attended the college and eventually worked as faculty and staff. After their son Timothy passed away, they created a scholarship in his name to share their rich legacy with students. “We appreciate all those who give to Tabor,” said Braun. “We hope events like the scholarship dinner offer a small token of gratitude.”
Join us in our Grand Finale
Build the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts Debt Free
Join us in our effort to build the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts debt free. We're asking 1,000 individuals to give $1,000. As of June 2017 we still need 775 names. You can help us achieve our goal!
• Donor names will be recognized on a Grand Finale plaque • Business, churches, church and civic groups can give as group • Family groups including generational groups • Each $1000 receives one line on plaque (ex. $10,000 receives 10 lines)
Make a donation online at tabor.edu/signature or send a check to: Tabor College Grand Finale 400 S Jefferson Hillsboro, KS 67063 19
ALUMNI NEWS REPRINTED FROM THE WINTER 2017 ONLINE EDITION
Alumni News Marriages Jeremy Davidson (g’16) and Jennifer Crist (g’17) married in Hillsboro, Kan., on Dec. 18, 2016 Ryan Vogt and Danelle Thieszen (g’09), married in Wichita, Kan., on Oct. 1, 2016
Davidson/Crist
Vogt/Thieszen
Wahl/Schneider
Silva/Kuntz
Kevin Wahl (g’04) and Jennifer Schneider, married in Still Water Hollow, Boise, Idaho., on Sept. 2, 2016 Esau Silva and Andrea Kuntz (g’10), married in Abilene, Kan., on June 4, 2016
Births/Adoptions Claire Vogel
Anna Stirton
Alice Paulus
David (g’12) and Hanna (Bishop g’12) Vogel, Hillsboro, Kan., a girl, Claire Elizabeth, Jan. 6, 2017 Marc and Laura (Ediger g’07) Stirton, Enid, Okla., a girl, Anna Grace, Dec. 25, 2016 Josh (g’11) and Amanda (Zuercher g’12) Paulus, Liberal, Kan., a girl, Alice Claire, Nov. 27, 2016
Cal Jost
Brett Friesen
Addilyn Shewey
Josh (g’10) and Rachel (Creps) Jost, Salt Lake City, Utah, a boy, Cal Dean, Oct. 24, 2016 Kyle and Karis (Jost g’07) Friesen, Newton, Kan., a boy, Brett Jonathan, Oct. 18, 2016 Grant (g’15) and Lauren (Wall g’16) Shewey, Omaha, Neb., a girl, Addilyn Joy, Aug. 15, 2016
Kerstin Sensenig
Linnea Sensenig
Bethany Schall
Andrew Sensenig (ff’15) and Erica Buller (g’03), Fresno, Calif., twin girls, Kerstin Margarit and Linnea Juliet, May 25, 2016 John and Melanie (Dick g’12) Schall, Wichita, Kan., a girl, Bethany Lyn, May 22, 2016
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ALUMNI NEWS REPRINTED FROM THE WINTER 2017 ONLINE EDITION
Deaths
1980s
Marvin Ediger (g’54), Elk River, Minn., Feb. 7, 2017
Mark Seibel (fs’82), a native of Hillsboro, the U.S. State Department announced on Dec. 16 that he had been promoted to the Senior Foreign Service, at the rank of Counselor, a civilian diplomatic equivalent to the military rank of Brigadier General. President Obama made the appointment on Dec. 14, after confirmation by the Senate on Dec. 7. Seibel graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1982, attended Tabor College two years and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Political Science from Wichita State University. He entered the Foreign Service with the Department of State in 1991. His previous assignments include postings in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Japan, Cuba, Canada, Russia, El Salvador and Washington, D.C. He is currently serving in the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan, where he oversees programs to strengthen and develop Afghanistan’s criminal justice system.
Paul Penner (fs’45, fbd’15, bd. emeritus), Wichita, Kan., Jan. 1, 2017 Melvina (Hamm g’46) Wichert, Mount Vernon, Mo., Dec. 9, 2016 Sandra (Andres g’78) Dick, St. Catharines, Ont., Canada, Dec. 5, 2016 Lloyd Dalke (g’60), Hillsboro, Kan., Nov. 27, 2016 Stephen Hogan (g’76), Hesston, Kan., Nov. 23, 2016 Marilyn Kopper (g’78), Wichita, Kan., Nov. 19, 2016 Allen Hiebert (fs’63/ff’07), Hillsboro, Kan., Nov. 14, 2016 Lee Unruh (fs’51), Newton, Kan., Nov. 5, 2016 Marjorie (Vogt fs’45) Krause, Wichita, Kan., Oct. 28, 2016 Verna Isaac (g’49), Elk Grove, Calif., Sept. 1, 2016 Dolores (Ediger g’55) Chakerian, Davis, Calif., July 24, 2016 Daryl Bartel (fst’16), Hillsboro, Kan., Feb. 11, 2017 Annette (Janzen g’81) Vix, Maize, Kan., Feb. 11, 2017
Alumni News – 1960s Joseph L. Bridges (g’63), has been named “2017 Realtor of the Year” by the 900-member Stark County Association of Realtors. Bridges re-entered the real estate profession after his retirement from Malone College as professor of communications and chair of the Communication Arts Department. Bridges is licensed with Howard Hanna Real Estate Services and works in the Canton, Ohio, office with his wife, Charlyn. They have two adult sons and live in Hartville.
1990s David Barton (g’90), The College of Health and Human Services at Fresno State recognizes 2016 Community Heroes. As athletic director at Fresno High School, Barton is making sure student-athletes are succeeding on and off the field. Since 2011, his work has resulted in increased participation in regards to academics and sports, better grades, increased retention rates and a record-breaking number of league championships for the school and its athletes.
2010s Jesse Todd (g’12), Elementary Education graduate and former Student Body president, is now teaching fifth grade at Plum Creek Elementary School in the Hutchinson school district. In January, Todd won the Kansas Horizon Award, recognizing exemplary first-year teachers in elementary and secondary schools in Kansas.
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Update your info, send us pictures and tell us about your recent honors/ awards online at tabor.edu/alumnifriends. Click on the Be Connected tab to submit your information! CODES
g – graduate fs – former student cs – current student f – faculty ff – former faculty st – staff fst – former staff tcw – Tabor College Wichita
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Alumni News Received as of May 15, 2017
Marriages Ben Nafe (g’16) and Laurie Daniel (g’17), married in Parker, Texas, Feb. 11, 2017 Taylor Loewen (g’14) and Andrea Bartel, married in Lenexa, Kan., May 13, 2017
Nafe/Daniel
Loewen/Bartel
Births/Adoptions Matthew and Tina (Frick g’11) Clark, Wichita, Kan., a boy, Brox Matthew, Oct. 18, 2016
Brox Clark
Connect with us ONLINE!
Update your info, send us pictures and tell us about your recent honors/ awards online at tabor.edu/alumnifriends. Click on the Be Connected tab to submit your information! CODES
g – graduate fs – former student cs – current student f – faculty ff – former faculty st – staff fst – former staff tcw – Tabor College Wichita
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Grace Lee
Ryan (st’17) and Amanda (Edington g’02/st’17) Lee, Hillsboro, Kan., a girl, Grace Elizabeth, April 14, 2017
Deaths Raymond Franz (fs’51), Hillsboro, Kan., April 29, 2017 Richard Franz (fs’55), Wichita, Kan., April 26, 2017 Rosalie (Schlichting g’55) Adrian, Muncie, Ind., April 20, 2017 Elsie (Schafer g’46) Friesen, Buhler, Kan., March 22, 2017 LaVina (Ediger fs’43) Ollenburger, Buhler, Kan., Feb. 25, 2017 David Winter (g’72), Tulsa, Okla., Feb. 24, 2017 David Loewen (g’83), Oklahoma City, Okla., Feb. 14, 2017 Kenneth Eitzen (g’43), Fairview, Okla., Feb. 7, 2017 Lyndon Wahl (g’49), Fairview, Okla., Feb. 3, 2017 Anna Frantz (g’51), Dinuba, Calif., Feb. 2, 2017 Ruth (fs’63 Warkentine) Seibel, Thornton, Colo., July 10, 2016
Alumni News – 1970s Joe Kleinsasser (g’79), was inducted into the GWOA Hall of Fame on April 12. Joe was recognized for several accomplishments during his officiating career: a registered basketball official for 40 years; worked sub-state level for 31 years; worked state tournaments starting in 1986 (29 years). Kleinsasser was named the 2001 Kansas Girls Basketball official of the year by the National Federation of State High School Associations. An alum of Hillsboro High School and Tabor College, Kleinsasser works as director of news and media relations at Wichita State University.
2000s Tyler Weinbrenner (g’08), was named the Educational Administration Outstanding Graduate Student at Emporia State University and honored for his accomplishments at a dinner on May 5. He has completed two masters degrees since graduating from Tabor College and is the new principal at Inman High School/Middle School this year.
2010s Nathan Vogel (g’14), graduated from the Kansas University School of Medicine on May 12, 2017, with the degree of Doctor of Physical Therapy. Out of a class of 57 students, he was selected to be the class speaker for the commencement and was also named Mr. KU Med. He will begin working at Matrix Therapy Solutions in Coushatta, La., after graduation. Tim Rozzell (BA-g’13, MS-g’15), 6 Meridian LLC, an SEC registered investment advisory firm, welcomed their 14th member to the team in April. Tim Rozzell, an Andover native, joined the team as a Registered Associate Wealth Advisor. Rozzell continues his dedication to his hometown community of Andover as an Ambassador for Young Professionals of Wichita, volunteering for local fundraising campaigns for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and as a volunteer football coach at Tabor College.
HOMECOMING
O C T O B E R 20 - 2 1 , 2 0 1 7
Plan a visit to Hillsboro to attend this year’s Homecoming activities! Details available at tabor.edu/homecoming
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Please contact us if your address is incorrect: advancement@tabor.edu TABOR COLLEGE INVITES YOU TO CELEBRATE THE DEDICATION OF THE
Shari Flaming Center for the Arts Dedication Ceremony DECEMBER 9, 2017
Messiah DECEMBER 10, 2017