Fall 2021 • Vol. 76 / No. 1
Inside:
Janzen returns to serve his alma mater Tabor Homecoming 2021 New housing coming to Tabor College as d te ent a r u esid g u a e pr n i en olleg z n Ja or C Tab
From the President Coming to Tabor College as its new president has been an exhilarating and humbling experience. I am so incredibly grateful for the wonderful, warm welcome that Karen and I have received from the extended Tabor family. Thank you for your prayers and your encouragement. Thank you for continuing to give to Tabor of your time and treasure. Thank you for your goodwill toward our entire family. During the interview and discernment process last spring, our pastor encouraged us to spend extended time quietly listening to God. During one of these times I almost immediately heard, “You are mine.” I responded with “Yes, Lord, but what am I supposed TO DO?” (I don’t think talking back to God was part of the instructions.) After much silence I heard again, “You are mine.” The next day I shared this with a relative who pointed me to the Scripture they were memorizing: “But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.’” — Isaiah 43:1 There is so much unknown ahead, but I am confident that God has called Karen and me to serve Him through Tabor. We are not alone, either. God has placed a calling on
so many wonderful, obedient people to effectively accomplish His work as we join together in the mission and institution of Tabor. Whether you are or were on staff, are a part of our community, are an alum or a friend, I invite you to participate in furthering God’s Kingdom through our work. At our All-Employee Meeting, I highlighted the enviable position that I noticed as I arrived at Tabor. Our location on the prairie fosters an amazing community. We are successfully attracting and serving high percentages of first-generation and diverse students. We have many young, diverse and talented faculty with significant energy and creative ideas. Our campus is safe and beautiful with many wonderful facilities. Most importantly, we have stayed true to our biblical, Christian mission in higher education, and we are making a powerful impact in the world for Christ and His Kingdom. I heard a Tabor alum and long-time supporter say after Homecoming this year, “I think Tabor is at an all-time high and going up from here!” Praise the Lord! Like a high jumper or pole vaulter, when we clear a height and celebrate our accomplishments, we must ‘raise the bar’ and strive for greater excellence and impact. We are doing that now. I look forward to sharing more in the future about our vision for entrepreneurship and academic excellence. The Connection magazine captures the true spirit and culture of campus through many of the activities and accomplishments of the past few months. It has been a remarkable season. I pray that the following pages will inform and inspire you about what God is doing through the people of Tabor, and that you would sense an authentic connection with the important mission of our beloved institution.
President David S. Janzen
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Connection
In This Issue
Fall 2021 Vol. 76 No. 1 A magazine for Tabor College alumni & friends Communications Specialist/Editor Adam Suderman adam.suderman@tabor.edu Contributor Aleen Ratzlaff aleenr@tabor.edu
4 Janzen returns to serve his alma mater
6 Janzen inaugurated as Tabor College president
Senior Graphic Designer Diane Oborny dianeo@tabor.edu Photographer Michael Klaassen michaelwklaassen@tabor.edu
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Director of Alumni Relations Rod Hamm rodneyhamm@tabor.edu
New residence halls
Graphic Design Student Josiah Jost
View or subscribe at tabor.edu/connection For up-to-date news, visit tabor.edu/news
Tabor Homecoming 2021
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From the President Janzen returns to alma mater Janzen inaugurated New housing coming to Tabor Tabor Homecoming 2021 Shari Flaming Education Commons Spotlight: Willow Baer Campus News Arts Hall of Fame Fall concerts Fall sports roundup Spotlight: Shea Sutherland Spotlight: Dr. Brett Crist Jay Day 2021 Alumni News Ten things to celebrate Upcoming events
Photography Students Collin Brown Andrew Kinser Dalton McAlister Contributing Photographer, John Cramer 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
Administration
Board of Directors
David S. Janzen, President Rusty Allen, Executive Vice President of Operations Ron Braun, Vice President of Philanthropy Michael James, Vice President of Finance and Business, CFO Frank Johnson, Executive Vice President of Academics and Compliance
Susan Franz Koslowsky, Chair Diana Raugust, Vice Chair Ted Faszer, Secretary Jeral Gross, Treasurer Roger Ediger, At Large Craig Ratzlaff, At Large Loren Balzer Natalie Ford, Student Representative Melissa Gutierrez Andrew Jost Mark Jost Kelly Kirby Jerry Kliewer Nate Loewen Wendell Loewen, Faculty Representative Dean Nachtigall Jeff Nikkel Dennis Penner Craig Quiring Pat Redding Elaine Setzer-Maxwell Dan Strutz Tim Sullivan Orson Thomas Wilbur Unrau Richard Unruh Denise Wiens
Faculty Leadership Amy Ratzlaff, Ph.D. Cand., Assistant Professor of Health and Human Performance, Assistant Athletic Director, Associate Dean of the School of Professional Studies Rick Bartlett, M.Div., D.Min., Associate Professor of Ministry, Director of Theological Education, Associate Dean of the School of Graduate Studies Christopher Dick, Ph.D., Professor of English, Faculty Chair Wendell Loewen, D.Min., Professor of Youth, Church & Culture; Faith Front Director; Faculty Representative to the Board of Directors; Associate Dean of the School of Liberal Arts
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A call to Tabor: Janzen returns to serve his alma mater A move to Hillsboro was not simply a job change for the Janzen family— it was a calling. Dr. David and Karen Janzen accepted early retirement from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in late 2020, opening an unknown door for what was next. “When the early exit program came out, we just immediately wondered if it was what God had been preparing us for,” Janzen said. “Without knowing what was next, it was trusting him that he had something else.” Something else, indeed. Within one week of solidifying his decision to leave Cal Poly, effective June 2021, the opening for Tabor College president was publicized. A call soon followed from Board Chair Susan Franz Koslowsky to gauge his interest in applying for the position. It served as the beginning of a spirit-filled journey, culminating in the selection of Janzen as Tabor’s 14th president. He succeeded President Emeriti Jules Glanzer, who retired after nearly 14 years in the role. It was a grand homecoming for Janzen, returning to his alma mater after graduating 31 years earlier.
“God continues to call people to His work through Tabor College,” Janzen said. “We are excited and passionate about the mission of Tabor, and we pray that God will glorify Himself through this important work.” Franz Koslowsky spoke of witnessing his leadership and authenticity, both through the interview process and now in his term as president. “The passion that President Janzen has shown for our Tabor students, both academically and spiritually, is strong,” Franz Koslowsky said. “His entrepreneurial spirit and experience in higher education have made him a great fit. He cares deeply for Tabor, and his unwavering faith will be instrumental in leading the continued success of our community.” Tabor College ties are strong for David and for Karen, who attended Tabor for two years. Both are third-generation Tabor alumni, with all four of their parents having attended Tabor and each having a grandfather who attended Tabor. Their son Alexander made it four generations after graduating in 2017.
Janzen Family Tree David Janzen (g’90) Kristin (Janzen) Wiebe, sister (g’87) Julie (Janzen) LaQuey, sister (g’93) Roger Janzen, father (g’64) Edna (Friesen) Janzen, mother (fs) Dan Janzen, grandfather (g’54)
Karen (Isaac) Janzen (fs) Bryan Isaac, brother (g’82) Mark Isaac, brother (g’84) Menno Isaac, father (g’58) Alice (Penner) Isaac, mother (fs) C.C. Penner, grandfather (g’22)
Janzen and friends meet at the Marion Reservoir. (L to R): Christine Anderson, Jarrod Goentzel, Brenda (Truitt) Friesen, Cyndi (Friesen) Richardson, David Janzen and Darren Rempel.
Janzen playing the timpani at a band concert in the Tabor College gymnasium. Lois (Janzen) Enomoto, Jarrod Goentzel and Janzen at Commencement in May 1990. David and Karen on the final day of classes in May 1988. 4
David was also heavily involved in campus activities and ministries. He spent time on the soccer roster and participated in Harvest Crew, the campus worship team. He was in leadership for Share, Prayer & Dare (SP&D) and the Campus Ministries Council (CMC). He was also in the pep band, the choir and was an RA for two years. “We’ve heard from so many immediate and extended family members that are so excited about our Tabor connections,” Janzen said. “… Many of them have gone to Tabor, and there is a genuine excitement for us taking this role and that is so encouraging to me.” Janzen was born on March 9, 1968, in Independence, Kan. He and his family later moved to Enid, Okla., where he graduated from Oklahoma Bible Academy before starting at Tabor in 1986. He graduated from Tabor with a B.A. in mathematics and computer science in 1990. He later earned his M.S. and Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Kansas in 1993 and 2006, respectively. He began his work professionally at Sprint, working in software from 1993-97. He then taught at Bethel College, North Newton, Kan., from 1997-2006 and the University of Kansas from 1991-93 and 2004-06. Before taking over as Tabor president, Janzen served as software engineering coordinator and professor of computer science at Cal Poly for 15 years. He also briefly served as adjunct faculty at Westmont College in Montecito, Calif., from August to December of last year. Janzen is also the co-founder of Steadfast Innovation LLC, which created the handwriting note-taking application Squid for Android and
Janzen speaks at the first chapel of the 2021-22 academic year in the Richert Auditorium in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts.
ChromeOS pen-based devices. Squid has over five million downloads, is a Google Play Editor’s Choice and was featured by Google as one of the top eight applications for education. The application led to strategic partnerships across the technology industry, including Microsoft and Google, among others. He is also the owner, consultant and trainer of Simex. He created the “Java Essentials for Android” course, which attracted over 10,000 subscribers. His business, education and entrepreneurial acumen has taken Janzen globally, but his personal mission to integrate Christ into his work hasn’t wavered. “Your Christian faith is not just about you and what you believe and how you worship,” he said. “It’s about what God is going to do through you and how He is going to use you in this world.” His Sept. 24 inauguration was built around the theme of “Compelled by Grace, Called to Obedience, Christ in Us.” Janzen said that he prays the words not only serve as the foundation of his presidency, but for what God has in store for the college.
David and Karen take first photos as President and First Lady on the Tabor campus.
Angel Sanchez, Bernard Turner, Janzen and Rodrell Sturdivant at Freshman Orientation on Aug. 14. Janzen took a sabbatical from Cal Poly to teach abroad in Asia in 2018. 5
Janzen inaugurated as Tabor College president
David and Karen Janzen stand as the processional closes at Inauguration on Friday, Sept. 24.
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Compelled by Grace Called to Obedience Christ in Us As Dr. David Janzen took office, his theme for the Inauguration served as a springboard for his presidency. The Sept. 24 ceremony was the perfect opportunity to celebrate what God has done, is doing and will do in the greater Tabor College community. The evening’s dinner kicked off the festivities, bringing members of Janzen’s family and friends together with local governing bodies and members of the Tabor board of directors and administration. Shirley V. Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities, spoke at the dinner, expressing her well wishes for Janzen and Tabor on behalf of the more than 180 institutions within the CCCU. “The CCCU is here for you, David,” she said. “It takes a special heart of service to take the mantle as college president. You have already had a big life and made contributions and innovations. As a college president, you are going to get to add to that collection of wondrous things.” Hillsboro Mayor Lou Thurston and President Emeriti Larry Nikkel and Jules Glanzer also spoke at the dinner. The ceremony brought Janzen’s business, family and educational ties to the Tabor campus. Classmate Bryce Unruh (g’91) served as the evening’s emcee. As one of five members of the evening’s greeting litany, Natalie Ford (Fort Collins, Colo.) spoke on behalf of the student body and as student representative to the board of directors. “As student representative to the board of directors, it is my honor to welcome you on behalf of the student body,” Ford said. “This campus has afforded me great opportunities to grow academically, spiritually and athletically. The ability to share with each other in how God has gifted us is a very unique thing to Tabor. We the students look forward to partnering with you as you implement your vision here at Tabor College.” Mike Jordahl, senior vice president of The Navigators (Colorado Springs, Colo.), was selected by Janzen as the ceremony’s keynote speaker. The two met while Janzen completed his master’s degree at the University of Kansas (1991-93). Jordahl spoke of their relationship, admiring Janzen’s heart for the Lord and for people. “David, my prayer for you is that under your leadership, Tabor would send out many answers to Jesus’ prayer request,” Jordahl said at the ceremony, “… people who will experience how much Jesus loves them, that they’ll love him back, and to live out and be the disciples and followers that he wants.” The Tabor College Concert Choir performed “Sun, Rain, Wind,” a poem penned by Jean Janzen. The music was composed by Dr. R. Christopher Teichler, director of instrumental music at Tabor. Three of the college’s former presidents were present for the Inauguration. Rev. Vernon Janzen (1980-87), Nikkel (1999-07), and Glanzer (2008-21) each spoke a word of blessing or read scripture over the college’s newest president.
Janzen receives a standing ovation from the audience and platform party ahead of his inaugural address.
Glanzer presented the presidential medallion to Janzen. The medallion features the college seal as well as the inscription “All Glory be to Christ our Lord.” It expresses the community’s complete reliance on Christ and our recognition that whatever success Tabor College experiences is to His glory. In his presidential response, Janzen spoke of the benefits of a Tabor education. It stemmed not only from his experience as a student (g’90), but how he desires to equip students in a scriptural foundation. “Tabor students live and learn in a context where the Bible, God’s word to us, is integrated in all aspects of the college,” he said. “For 113 years, students have come to Tabor where they learn in community from faculty that know and love God. They go out into the world not to just make a living, but to make a difference for Christ and His kingdom.” Pastor Mark Isaac provided the evening’s benediction, highlighting a near 30-year “reunion” on stage. He’s not only a Tabor graduate (g’84), but also was the officiant at the Janzen’s wedding as brother and brother-in-law. “We stand beside David and Karen at this moment, giving our ‘amen’ to their yes,” Isaac prayed. “Trusting as they do with confidence to fulfill in and through them what you desire. Grant them compassion, courage, discernment, discipline and determination. May they rest in the overflowing peace of you, Christ Jesus.”
President Emeriti Jules Glanzer bestows the Presidential Medallion on Janzen, commemorating his presidency at Tabor College. Tabor Board of Directors Chair Susan Franz Koslowsky welcomes the in-person and livestream audience inside the Richert Auditorium in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts.
Emcee Bryce Unruh (g’91) speaks to David and Karen Janzen at the beginning of the inaugural ceremony. 7
P R E S I D E N T I A L
President Emeritus Larry Nikkel speaks at the Inauguration Dinner in the Prieb Harder Theater in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts.
Shirley V. Hoogstra, President for Council of Christian Colleges & Universities, gives the formal address at the Inauguration Dinner.
I N A U G U R A T I O N
President Emeritus Jules Glanzer “passes the baton” of the Tabor College presidency to Janzen at the Inauguration Dinner.
Lisa (Braun) Klaassen (g’90) gives the invocation at the Inauguration Dinner.
Four total Tabor presidents and first ladies attended the Inauguration. Pictured (L to R) first row: Genevieve Janzen, Elaine Nikkel, Peg Glanzer and Karen Janzen. Second row: Vernon Janzen, Larry Nikkel, Jules Glanzer and David Janzen.
Members of the immediate Janzen family joined David and Karen at the weekend’s festivities. (L to R) first row: Amber Janzen, Karen, Madeline Booker (Simon’s fiancée). Second row: Alexander Janzen, David and Simon Janzen. (June Janzen unable to attend) 8
Mike Jordahl, senior vice president for The Navigators, gives the Inauguration Address. Janzen met Jordahl when he was completing his master’s degree at the University of Kansas (1991-93).
First Lady Karen Janzen introduces inaugural speaker Mike Jordahl.
The Tabor College Concert Choir performs “Redeemed of God” at the conclusion of the inaugural ceremony.
President Vernon Janzen read Psalm 19:7-14 at Inauguration and introduced David ahead of his presidential response.
The audience and platform party join in singing “Redeemed of God,” written by Dr. Clarence Hiebert (text) and Dr. Jonah Kliewer (music). 9
New housing coming to Tabor campus Tabor College is officially set to break ground on new housing in spring 2022. Since approval in April 2021, plans have taken shape for the new residential project on the northeast corner of campus. The initial build will be for a large two-story duplex with a basement that sits along Adams Street, just south of Dakota Hall and northeast of the Business Studies building. With a record number of freshmen in the current academic year, the need of new housing became even more evident. “God has opened an exciting chapter in the history and legacy of Tabor College,” President David Janzen said. “The decisions we are making are going to impact generations of students, and that’s very exciting. It’s going to be an inviting place for a long, long time.” Two years ago, a housing task force was created to assess student living. Chaired by former Tabor Vice President of Student Development Judy Hiebert, the committee was asked to put together a report of what would be wanted in a new residence hall. Members of that group included the following:
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Single building with two residence halls
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Living Rooms, Kitchens & Storm Shelters (x 2, one in each hall)
• Rusty Allen, Exec. VP of Operations
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Study Rooms (x 8, two per floor)
• Mike James, VP of Business & Finance
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Study/Social Lounges (x 6, two per floor)
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34 double rooms & 12 single rooms
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24 toilets, 22 showers (4:1 ratio to students)
• Judy Hiebert, Community Representative & Chair
• Terry Ens, Director of Facilities • Emir Ruiz Esparza, Dean of Student Life, Learning and Formation • Lance Carter, Sports Information and Men’s Basketball Assistant Coach • Amy Ratzlaff, Associate Dean/Assistant AD/Assistant Professor of Health & Human Performance • Sara Sigley, Director of Residential Education • Amanda Lee, Assistant Residential Educator • Madison Gallagher (g’21), Student Senate President That task force was involved in developing the floor plan. Janzen, Ens and James sat down to finalize the project with structural needs. “We’ve worked hard to create what’s best for our students,” Ens said. “The collaboration behind this project brought a wide representation of our campus together. From the conceptualization of the project to the theme of what’s 10
A look at Tabor’s new housing
important in housing (that was created by Student Life), we have been able to capture that collaboration in home, community, and security.” Similar to the townhouses that were completed in 2006, this two-story duplex will include two residence halls and allow men and/or women to move into separate facilities upon completion. A total of 80 beds will be added within the duplex, including 34 double rooms and 12 single rooms. The 80 beds are expected to both accommodate growth and replace aging residence halls. Each residence hall will be equipped with its own kitchen, living room and storm shelter. There will also be eight study rooms and six study/social areas between the two spaces. “It strikes the right balance of home, community and security,” Janzen said. “Those are three big words in this process.
You walk in and it feels like a home. It doesn’t feel like a dormitory. You come in and there is a foyer, lounge and kitchen. It will feel like you’re walking into someone’s house.” Over time, James said it’s exciting to have a project that impacts a majority of the Tabor campus. “This will be a big opportunity to impact our greater student body,” James said. Ron Braun, vice president of philanthropy, said Tabor constituents have given generously and sacrificially for all of the current housing. The need of housing and opportunity to
provide for current and future students has risen once again. Lifelong relationships were formed and cemented inside residence halls for a large majority of Tabor students. Braun asks that Tabor graduates remember the gifts that made those moments possible and consider giving a gift to this project. “When we look at the housing that is needed, the expenses have grown exponentially over the years,” Braun said. “This is a big undertaking and a tremendous need for Tabor College. We need people’s participation in making this vision come alive.”
Join us now to build for a lifetime of memories. Can you remember your residence hall experience at Tabor College?
With your support for a new residence hall:
• The excitement of moving from home for the first time • Making new friends, having dorm parties, staying up (very) late • Developing life-long relationships
• Overcrowding will be eliminated
• These experiences will be new today for future students • Students will have increased security provided • The Tabor community will be enhanced as students thrive • Students will have a campus home they will be proud of
New housing is expensive, very expensive. With your prayers and gifts of support, new student housing will be a reality! Send your gift for Residence Halls by check, give online at tabor.edu/give (residence halls) or contact Ron Braun, VP of Philanthropy, to discuss a gift of appreciated assets, stocks, commodities, real estate, an IRA gift or a legacy gift through your estate. Email ronb@tabor.edu or call 620-947-3121, ext 1710.
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The Tabor Concert Choir sings at Music Fest on the Kliewer Plaza on Saturday morning, Oct. 15.
Aaron (g’08) and Kayla Gallaway (g’11) enjoy a free donut at Druber’s on Friday, Oct. 14.
Joyce Thiessen and Joyce Kessler were two of over 400 guests served at the Dutch Lunch on Homecoming weekend.
The 1990 graduating class met to celebrate President Janzen’s arrival at Tabor. First row: Kim Gerbrandt, Kris (Landerdahl) Gerbrandt, Lisa (Braun) Klaassen, Karen (Isaac) Janzen, Miriam (Klassen) Kliewer, Kathy (Doerksen) Isaac. Second row: Rene Wiebe, Linda (Schweitzer) Hathaway, Teresa (Fenwick) Wade, Sherry (Neufeld) Rempel, David Janzen, Brenda (Wichert) Sechrist, Joe Sechrist, Cheryl (Wiens) Kauffman, Jon Friesen.
Tabor Homecoming 2021 (L to R): Emily Crow, Esme McCloud, Zach Beachy and Josh Strid perform in “Little Women: The Broadway Musical.”
(L to R): Tori Kaiser, Betsy George, Emily Crow and Madie Hill (g’20) on stage in “Little Women: The Broadway Musical.” The Tabor College Theatre Department had three performances over Homecoming weekend. 12
Tabor College students, alumni, faculty and staff come together for the Bluejay Bash. The pulled pork dinner was free after the football game.
(L to R): Kate Reimer (g’21), Sarah Bird (g’21), Liliana Wait, Chandler Henkelman and Kylie Crist enjoy the complimentary meal during Bluejay Bash.
Kole Long and Laney Swink were named host and hostess during halftime of the football game against Southwestern. The full court included (L to R): Taylor Morrow, Trace Blakesley, Laney Swink, Kole Long, Abigail Sechrist, Toby Penner, Maddie (Ediger) Weaver and Josh Gaede.
Education faculty and administration celebrated the grand opening of the Shari Flaming Education Commons on Saturday morning. (L to R): Dr. David Stevens, Professor Lisa Moore, Chuck Flaming, Dr. Sarah Tham, Professor Kristen Hays and Executive VP of Academics and Compliance Dr. Frank Johnson.
The Class of 1970 also got to celebrate their 50th reunion at the Homecoming Dinner. First row: Jolene (Graf) Thiessen, Marilyn (Friesen) Fast, Rosemary (Loewens) Prieb, Eldora (Ewert) Penner, Suzanne Johnson, Sandy Bartel, Kaylene (Johnson) Unruh, Elaine (Loewen) Goodwin, Charlotte (Tschetter) Brothers, Eileen (Kroeker) Hiebert. Second row: John Quiring, Ellis Toews, Merle Schlabaugh, Richard Penner, Ron Klaassen, Robert Ewert, Steve Fast, Herb Schroeder, Lowell Hofer, Randy Sperling. The Class of 1971 celebrated their 50th reunion at the Homecoming Dinner on Friday, Oct. 14. First row: Marilyn (Penner) Long, Sherryl (Peters) Wolff, Helen (Wiebe) Quiring, Janice (Classen) Fast, Joyce (Regier) Wall, Evelyn (Derksen) Seibel, Mary (Regehr) Regier, Marilyn (Disch) Penner. Second row: Mark Hutcherson, Ralph Heinrichs, Leon Thiessen, Harold Loewen, Don Wohlgemuth, Terry Oberg, Wes Kroeker. Dennis Fast (not pictured) 13
A Grand Opening
Dedicating the new Shari Flaming Education Commons Teacher education has served as an integral program for generations of Tabor College students. The program now has a signature space to call home, moving from the bottom floor of the H.W. Lohrenz Administration Building to the second floor of the library. It was a major transformation to the space, including the relocation and rehoming of over 40,000 books and one of the largest remodels in college history. The project includes the addition of four classrooms, a brand-new curriculum lab, and office space for the Tabor education department. Two identical spaces occupy the south and west walls, providing a home for both elementary and secondary education students. The Tabor College Facilities Team completed nearly the entire renovation in-house, bringing costs down and enhancing collaboration between administration, faculty and staff. One of the highlights of the project is the trim and beams around the facility. Every piece of wood used comes from the former bleachers inside the gymnasium. Thanks to the deep influence of educators in his own life, Chuck Flaming was proud to support the vision of President Emeritus Jules Glanzer and the campus. Chuck’s late wife Shari, whose name now dons three spaces on the Tabor College campus, was one of those educators. “Teachers have a huge influence on students,” Flaming said at the project’s grand opening at Homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 15. “After a lot of praying and thinking, I called Jules and agreed to fund this project on one condition. I wanted it to be stressed to students that teaching in school is also a mission.” Education students, faculty and staff had the opportunity to support that mission by commemorating the project as the framing was finished. They penned verses, prayers and notes of encouragement for current and future generations of teachers. Lisa Moore, assistant professor of education and department chair, said that she is proud that current students had a voice in what the space would look like. “This is a great recruiting tool for Tabor College,” Moore said. “I’ve talked to students for weeks about the premiere technology, classroom setting and the furniture. It’s going to be awesome for our incoming students.” The Newline interactive boards that are located in the elementary and secondary education spaces allow for immersive classes, bringing multimedia and education tools to the fingertips of faculty and students. “It not only offers high tech display but offers opportunities for seamless
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collaboration, which is important for students,” said Dr. Sarah Tham, assistant professor of education. Moore added that these are the kinds of tools that educators need to succeed the second they step foot in a classroom. She also praised the diversity of the space and how the glass walls of the two main classrooms can give a glimpse of classes for prospective students on campus visits. “We want this to be a signature program for the college,” Moore said. “We want future teachers to see this space and want to be a part of it. Some (incoming students or visitors) may or may not want to be teachers, but we want students to see what’s possible with this space and these tools.”
‘A God thing’: Baer’s journey to Tabor leading to classroom Only four days separated Willow Baer’s decision to attend Tabor College and her arrival on campus. Her 933-mile journey to Hillsboro was atypical, but it didn’t stop the Marshallville, Ohio, native from pursuing her dreams of becoming a teacher as a Bluejay. After graduating from Hesston (Kan.) College in May 2020, Baer had initially decided to spend one year with the Serving and Learning Together program through the Mennonite Central Committee. The COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to her trip abroad, keeping Baer away from teaching in Bogota, Colombia. Enter Tabor. During her stay in Hesston, Baer observed at Plum Creek Elementary School in Hutchinson, Kan. The building, a part of Buhler Schools, was also home for Caroline Riggenbach (g’18). The two connected about Tabor College, understanding that Riggenbach had also attended Hesston College before moving to Hillsboro for two years. After praying over and understanding her goals of completing her education out-of-state, Baer and her family began their trek to Tabor. They had never been to or heard of Tabor prior to 2020, but she felt led to see what was in store for her in Hillsboro. “I had never visited and it was two weeks before school that I talked to the admissions counselor,” she said. “Honestly, it was a God thing that I felt I needed to come here…. Even other gap year opportunities had opened up. and it didn’t feel right. I just wanted to go to Tabor.” Baer found a perfect fit inside the education department. Coincidentally, the 2020 fall semester was also the first for three of Tabor’s education faculty. Baer felt an instant connection with the pedigree that each brought to the program. “I felt like the professors were really inclusive and easy to get to know,” she said. “A lot of opportunities were coming up, and they talked about student teaching (abroad). We were getting into classrooms, and it was just really good.” Baer and her classmates are also now equipped with a brand-new home inside the Shari Flaming Education Commons. Located on the second floor of the Tabor library, the signature space holds a curriculum library and two large classrooms dedicated to elementary and secondary education. She said it’s a perfect place to prepare for their future as educators. “It’s amazing to have a space that’s set up for you to work together and contribute ideas with one another,” Baer said. “… When you have that space where you can communicate, it’s preparing you for your future and creating a more realistic environment as teachers.” It was the next step in Baer’s progression to the classroom.
The daughter of a high-school teacher, she never doubted that it was the field for her. From helping with kids in church to mentoring younger female students, it created a platform for Baer to share her gifts. “I’ve always been drawn to making people better and
helping them better themselves,” she said. “I feel it’s what teaching does because you can make a difference in a student’s life. Helping students have their ‘a-ha’ moments when they’re not getting things and then they’re able to process what they’re struggling with, it’s just so rewarding. Especially with younger kids, they’re just so fun. They’re a challenge, but I like the challenge too.” Baer is set to graduate with her degree in elementary education in May 2022. She will student teach in the spring while praying which door God will open next. While she’s roughly seven months from setting up her first classroom, Baer continues to pray that Colossians 3:23 would serve as the foundation for her work as a teacher. “I hope every child that comes into my classroom (will) know they are loved by God, and they can feel that in the environment we create,” she said. “We’re building God’s kingdom here and now. It’s not something for the future. It’s an amazing opportunity. The harvest is plentiful. You get a group of students every year, and you can make a positive impact on them.” 15
Tabor sets second-straight freshman enrollment record Tabor College is celebrating back-to-back records for incoming freshman classes. It took only one year to break its record of 171 freshmen. A total of 189 first-year students were enrolled and on campus as of Monday, Aug. 17. “We’re rallying around the Tabor Promise and the Tabor Advantage,” said Grant Myers, Tabor dean of enrollment management. “Our promotional tools and our visits have orchestrated what that brings to the table. It puts stories in front of our prospective students to what God is doing on our campus and it brings it to life.” Myers pinpointed the talented and experienced coaching and recruiting staff that has been put in place, highlighting their drive for Tabor’s mission. He also said continuity in faculty has aided in the progression. A key component inside the Tabor Advantage is All-Inclusive Pricing. This includes tuition, room, board, fees, accident insurance and laundry in one price. It eliminates tuition overload fees, credit card fees and typical college add-ons. It also allows students to acquire books at no cost.
“Students understand what is expected and it relieves anxieties of what’s happening financially,” he said. “It gains traction because they see that it’s unique to Tabor and that it’s a pretty awesome advantage.” Tabor is also entering a new year of the Tabor 20 Scholarship. It brought 32 Mennonite Brethren students on campus during the fall 2020 semester. A new group of 14 Tabor 20 students arrived in August and the college is currently recruiting for year No. 3 (application deadline is Dec. 1, 2021). Requirements for the Tabor 20 Scholarship include: • Student regularly attends a Mennonite Brethren church • Meets standard admissions criteria • Completes a campus visit (limited number of travel vouchers available for students living more than 300 miles away from Hillsboro) • Writes an essay • Visits campus and completes interview The record-breaking year has set the admission team’s eyes on another special class in 2022.
Tabor adds five new faculty for 2021-22 academic year Ryan Calvert, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Biology Calvert comes to Tabor College from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. He completed his Ph.D. at Purdue in 2019, studying Biochemical and Molecular Nutrition with a concentration in Cancer Immunology. Calvert also conducted Ryan Calvert Douglas Estes Kathryn Glanzer William Green Aaron Smith post-doctoral research at Purdue in Proteomics and Bioinformatics of obtaining her M.A., Glanzer has worked in youth ministry and taught at saliva and flavor. He taught 10 courses during his stay in West Lafayette, Hesston College (2013-14) and Bethel College (2018-19). concluding with Essentials and Fundamentals of Nutrition. He teaches Anatomy and Immunology courses at Tabor. William Green, M.F.A. Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre and Director of Theatre Douglas Estes, Ph.D. Green brings nearly 30 years of acting and performing arts experience Associate Professor of Biblical Studies and Practical Theology to Tabor. He has taught collegiately as the adjunct instructor of record at Estes arrives in Hillsboro after spending six years as assistant profesthe University of Mobile and the University of West Florida. Green taught sor of New Testament and Practical Theology and program director of the courses in acting, directing, acting for the camera, and period styles for Doctor of Ministry at South University in Columbia, S.C. He completed his performance at the two institutions. He earned his B.F.A. in Visual Art/ Ph.D. in Theology at the University of Nottingham. Since 2007-08, Estes Illustration from Auburn University before obtaining his M.F.A. in Acting/ has taught at three different institutions and also authored and edited nine Theatre from the University of Alabama. books. He also has a combined 16 years of pastoral experience. He teaches Christian Faith in Contemporary Culture and The Pentateuch at Tabor. Aaron Smith Director of Assessment and Associate Professor of Business Administration Kathryn Glanzer, M.A. Smith brings 10 years of educational experience to Tabor. He most Assistant Professor of Composition recently worked as an adjunct faculty for Luna Community College in Glanzer returns to Tabor this fall after completing her undergraduate degree Las Vegas, N.M. Smith also spent one year as the Career and Technical in English and Biblical/Religious Studies in 2002. She later completed her Education Transition Coach at Hutchinson Community College. He earned English Secondary Education Licensure, seventh-12th grades, in 2004. Glanzer his B.A. and M.B.A through the University of Arizona Global Campus. received her M.A. in English from Emporia State University in 2012. She has He earned a certification in teacher education from the University of West two previous stints as an adjunct instructor at Tabor in 2015 and 2019. Since Florida. Smith teaches Elementary Statistics at Tabor. 16
Moore, Rangel complete doctoral degrees It wasn’t a matter of if, but when, for Jim Moore and Melinda Rangel. It was the road that helped them reach their goal that made finishing their doctorates even more meaningful. Moore completed his EdD in Sports Management at the United States Sports Academy. Rangel finished her degree, EdD in Educational Leadership, at Wichita State University. Rangel began her degree while serving as an assistant principal at Newton (Kan.) High School. Her plan was to complete the program and retire from the role to move into higher education. God had other plans for her vision of educating future teachers. “In April 2019, I got a call from (President Emeritus) Jules Glanzer and he told me they had an opening in the business department,” Rangel said. “I told him ‘No… I wanted to teach in the school of education.’ He told me, ‘Just think about it.’ Then he emails me, ‘Think about it.’ At first it was ‘No,’ because it wasn’t what I wanted. God would not let that go.” Rangel credits Dr. Frank Johnson, executive vice president of academics and compliance, for helping her manage her doctoral studies while teaching in the Tabor business department. “All my Monday, Wednesday, Friday classes were flexible and Wednesdays were online,” she said. “We didn’t meet to face-to-face… Tabor was really supportive in allowing me to do that. There was no way I could have done it otherwise.” Moore, now in his 20th year at Tabor, has served in numerous roles on campus. They’ve culminated in serving as the associate professor of Health & Human Performance and also playing a key role in Tabor’s new undergraduate and online focus in Sports Management. He completed his degree in early 2021, finishing his doctorate in seven years.
“I had wanted to do it for a while,” he said. “I taught at a high school for many years, but when I came to a college, I wanted to do it so I could build myself into the ranks as a professor. Now that I’ve gone through this, I tried to do a broader program Jim Moore Melinda Rangel so that it can be more useful here at Tabor.” It was a meaningful road for Moore. He was able to complete his degree at his own pace and also touch on a personal journey in choosing his dissertation, titled “Physical Activity Effects of Cancer Survivors After Treatment: A Meta-Analysis.” “I did it on cancer, after seeing my son go through cancer and being so deeply involved in training…, combining those two different ideas made sense,” Moore said. Moore also worked closely with the USD 410 Activities Director and Assistant Principal Robert Rempel and completed a 300-hour internship at Hillsboro sporting events. With roles in athletic training and teaching, Moore said it wasn’t an easy process. However, he also said his family and Tabor administration were supportive. “The administration would ask me occasionally about how things were going for me,” he said. “They asked if there was any help I needed. I could do everything from a distance, so I didn’t have to spend a week away.”
Tabor hosts Annual Scholarship Dinner Senior Lindsay Rader speaks to the audience at the annual Tabor College Scholarship Dinner on Friday, Sept. 17 in the Franz Family Heritage Lobby in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts. The dinner brings those who fund endowed scholarships and student recipients together to celebrate the gifts given to further their education. As of the fall 2021 semester, a total of 93 endowed scholarships have been given to 105 students. Those scholarships total $134,000. To learn more about how you can support students through endowed scholarships, visit www.tabor.edu/support and make your gift at www.tabor.edu/give. 17
Opening class celebrated in Arts Hall of Fame Tabor College Arts welcomed its inaugural Arts Hall of Fame class on Aug. 28. Nearly 100 friends and family of the eight inductees came to campus to celebrate the accomplishments of Tabor’s rich arts history. “Each of the men and women (in this class) have touched a multitude of lives,” said Dr. Greg Zielke, arts director and director of choirs. “Truly they represent what is best about Tabor College: excellence, generosity and service. I thank God for blessing Tabor with these supremely talented and gifted musicians and artists.” Each of the inductees and/or families received the “Seed of Hope” as their award. The sculpture was designed and built by Shin-hee Chin, professor of art at Tabor College. You can watch the ceremony and read a full recap at www.tabor.edu/artsHOF21.
A look at Tabor’s eight Arts Hall of Fame inductees Carl Gerbrandt, opera/voice
“(After starting in 1962) Carl said working with the Tabor faculty gave him the stimulation to stay the course of music performance,” said Marilyn, his wife. “More importantly, to continue his work in church music through his lifetime. I want to thank all those in the Tabor community who made contributions to Carl’s career.”
A.R. Ebel, visual arts
Carl Gerbrant
A.R Ebel
Melinda Nikkel
Jack Braun
Lonn Richards
Herbert C Richert
Paul Wohlgemuth
Jonah Kliewer
“On behalf of Grandpa Ebel’s family, I would love to say thank you and it’s quite an honor for us to receive this,” said Margaret Lawellin, Ebel’s granddaughter. “Great appreciation from all of us.”
Malinda Nikkel, theatre
“She was a very warm person,” said Virgil Thiessen, Malinda’s cousin. “She loved to visit and loved family. I’m sure that many of you experienced that. Tabor, I want to thank you for all that you did for her and for this award. It’s wonderful.”
Jack Braun, theatre
“I’m privileged to be included in this initial group of inductees,” said Braun. “I’ve known and had a connection with all the other people being recognized and being inducted into the Tabor College Arts Hall of Fame.”
Lonn Richards, music/band
“He enjoyed his 23 years of teaching at Tabor,” said Brad, Lonn’s son. “He was passionate about his music and strived for excellence. To his credit was the building of the concert band and the pep band.”
Herbert C. Richert, music/choral
“Grandpa would say, ‘Thank you, I just did what God wanted me to do,’” said Ed Richert, Herbert’s grandson. “That was it. He was called to do what God asked him to do and that’s what he did.”
Paul Wohlgemuth, music/choral
“The Tabor choir was his joy and privilege,” said Steve, Paul’s son. “He put all of his energy into it. His dedication to his students was his highest priority. He mentioned many times of students writing to him years after graduating, thanking him for what they learned. He took much satisfaction in this.”
Jonah Kliewer, music/choral
“When Tabor needed a new song to rally students, faculty and administration, he wrote (‘Redeemed of God’),” said Jan, his son. “It’s an example of the service that fell out of the contractual or professional duties of a teacher. Dad loved Tabor College.” 18
A musical Fall at Tabor College
Jordan Feliz opened the Next To Me Tour at Tabor College on Friday, Oct. 29. Nearly 500 attended the evening concert in the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts. An incredible night of worship was highlighted by many of Feliz’s songs, including “The River”, “Next To Me”, “Glorify” and “Changed”. Stephen Stanley opened the evening in the Richert Auditorium.
The Tabor College Concert Choir performs its fall concert in the Richert Auditorium on Friday, Oct. 1.
Senior Nathan Kemling performs in the Tabor College Symphonic Band Concert on Saturday, Nov. 6. 19
Fall Sports Roundup MEN’S CROSS COUNTRY
Caden Cunningham (FR, Richmond, Texas) finished 12th (26:07.30) at the KCAC Championships in McPherson, Kan. He qualified for NAIA Nationals in the race. Cunningham made it back-to-back years of sending a Tabor freshman to the national meet. The men finished fifth at conference, giving it back-to-back, top-five finishes in the KCAC. Garrett Kinsey (SR, Norman, Okla.) and Alex Wilson (SO, Shamrock, Texas) finished 33rd (27:35.40) and 44th (28:12.80), respectively.
WOMEN’S CROSS COUNTRY
Emma Willison (SO, Buhler, Kan.) was Tabor’s top finisher at KCAC Championships in McPherson, placing 15th (19:32.10). No female Bluejay runners will compete at NAIA Nationals, but they took fourth place in conference. The finish gives them six-straight years of placing in the top five. Abigail Sechrist (SR, Hillsboro, Kan.), Sonya Zimmerman (FR, Valley Center, Kan.) finished 26th (20:41.00) and 29th (20:53.10), respectively.
FOOTBALL
Tabor (3-7, 2-7 in KCAC) put together its best performance of the fall against Bethany, dominating the hosts, 52-27. An 80-yard run from Angel Sanchez (FR, Providence, R.I.) tied the game at 14 apiece in the second quarter. The Bluejays never trailed over the final two-plus quarters, also scoring the game’s final 17 points. Andre Renteria (SR, Denver, Colo.) scored twice, running for 166 yards on 25 carries. Kaleb Hoppes (FR, McPherson, Kan.) caught four passes for 108 yards and also scored twice.
MEN’S GOLF
Tabor finished the fall with its home tournament at Sand Creek Station in Newton, Kan., on Oct. 11-12. The Bluejays finished 12th and with six freshmen participating, hopes are high for continued growth in the program. Andreas Aho (FR, Menahga, Minn.) was Tabor’s top finisher (25th–81, 77) at Sand Creek. Eli Tufono (FR, San Antonio, Texas) won all three of his matches during KCAC Match Play Championships on Oct. 4-5 in Dodge City, Kan. He was one of only three players to accomplish the feat.
WOMEN’S GOLF
The Tabor women also hosted their home tournament at Sand Creek Station on Oct. 11-12. The Bluejays finished eighth, but had two individuals shine in the tournament in Newton, Kan. Valdisa Andov (SO, Pekanbaru, Indonesia) took second (77, 81) out of 36 players. Madison Guerra (FR, Dinuba, Calif.) posted a personal-best in one of her rounds (91).
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MEN’S SOCCER
Tabor men’s soccer officially qualified for its first NAIA National Tournament appearance under KCAC co-coach of the year Grant Brubacher. The selection came after finishing No. 2 in conference play. Its run is a part of a massive turnaround for the Bluejays, winning nine conference matches for the first time under Brubacher. It’s the first time Tabor reached 10 wins since 2013. Following a 2-13-1 (1-9-1 in KCAC) campaign in 2020-21, they are now 12-6-1.
WOMEN’S SOCCER
A stellar defense carried Tabor into the postseason, however, offense was hard to find. It dropped its opening game, 1-0, against Kansas Wesleyan in the KCAC Tournament. The Bluejays only scored once over their last five games, but only gave up five goals over that span. They finished the season 8-6-4, giving them their first record above .500 since 2016. A roster full of underclassmen gives coach Ian Thomson plenty to be excited about in 2022.
MEN’S TENNIS
Tabor wrapped up its fall slate with a dominant 7-0 win at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kan. The final two weekends of September included the KCAC Individual Tournament and ITA Regional Play. That was preceded with a trip to Bethany College and followed by its trips to Newman and Baker. Its fall finale at Baker included wins in No. 2 and No. 3 doubles as well as No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4 singles. Singles were swept by Noe Hauschildt (FR, Saint Andr De Sangonis, France), Mickel Alexander (SR, St. George, Grenada), Jean Paul Fort (JR, Lima, Peru) and Ethan Kutz (SO, Sheridan, Wyo.).
WOMEN’S TENNIS
Tabor’s fall season was highlighted by a monster win, 4-3, at NCAA D-II Fort Hays State on Oct. 8. By winning two of the three matches in doubles play, the Bluejays picked up their signature win. Geanna Richard (SO, Brooklyn, N.Y.) and Tiana Shelton (FR, Birmingham, Ala.) won No. 1 doubles, 7-5, while Marisol Blair (SO, Topeka, Kan.) and Liliana Wait (SR, Parker, Colo.) took home the 6-4 win in No. 2 doubles. Tabor also won three matches in singles in the tournament.
VOLLEYBALL
Tabor (16-11, 10-2 in KCAC) finished No. 3 in the regular-season standings. The Bluejays won 10 of their last 11 matches, helping them secure a top-three seed in the conference tournament. Their run into the postseason was aided by a decorated group of nine seniors. Taylor Quiring (SR, Bradshaw, Neb.) leads Tabor and the KCAC in kills (340). She is joined by Olivia Duerksen (SR, Goessel, Kan., .348 hitting percentage) and Brittney Hiebert (SR, Goessel, Kan.) as the only three players to play in every set this fall.
All stories were written as of Friday, Nov. 12. Updates to each sport can be found at www.taborbluejays.com. 21
Audience of One
Worship leading strikes a chord for Sutherland Standing behind a microphone is a resting place for Shea Sutherland. The junior and Ark City, Kan., native is no stranger to music, but as her Tabor career has progressed, she has seen the stage serve as a bigger foundation than she could have anticipated. She chose Tabor after receiving a scholarship through the Presidential Leadership Program. Once she received her phone call from President Emeritus Jules Glanzer regarding the scholarship, she didn’t think twice about her future. Sutherland is also a member of Northside Baptist Church in her hometown, and the choir pianist is Lisa (Braun) Klaassen. She said that Klaassen (g’90) helped cement the idea of Tabor for her future. “I fell in love with Tabor when I visited,” Sutherland said. “It was the people and the students I met that were already coming. There was a community here that I just loved. Tabor was definitely on my radar from the very beginning.” As much as it was academic with her growing interests in communications, music and writing, Sutherland found peace in knowing that God opened her door to Hillsboro. “I had tears of joy because it was so evident that this was God’s plan,” she said. “God is not a God of confusion, and it was definitely clear. It just all perfectly aligned.” Sutherland, a communications major at Tabor, immediately signed up for auditions to participate in Tabor’s campus Contemporary Christian Worship Team, For His Glory. At her audition, Sutherland sang “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone).” She said she first sang it at a relative’s funeral, providing her first opportunity to sing a song in public that resonated so deeply. “That is a song that has been close to my heart since eighth grade,” 22
she said. “That was also probably the first song I sang when I sang on my worship team at church.” Led by David Martens, director of contemporary christian music, For His Glory has now given two groups of students the opportunity to lead worship on campus, locally and regionally. She is now entering her third year on the team and leads For His Glory-Gold in chapel and at various youth functions throughout the region. COVID kept the group off the road at the start of her sophomore year. They were able to hit the road last spring, adding trips to schools and churches in Hays, Hutchinson, Wichita and Lawrence. “I love the community we have,” Sutherland said. “It’s a shared love to want to spread the Gospel through a common interest of music. The close connection we have is remembering that they’re with us if we ever need something. This year, even starting last year, we were able to travel and develop a closer bond on the road together.” Sutherland said she often recalls what it felt like to stand in front of her peers as a freshman and sophomore. Thanks to a time of prayer and reflection ahead of the 2020-21 academic year, she has seen her perspective shift. “I was reminded this past summer how special worship is,” she said. “Even if you’re on stage in front of a bunch of people, He wants all of it. I was on stage at the beginning of this year with a change of heart and new mindset. It changed the game, knowing at the end of the day that it’s worship between God and me, and it’s not a performance for people.” Sutherland smiled when she thought back to her days of contemplating what college would have for her. Studying music or be a part of a choral ensemble? No, but close enough. As she continues her junior year, her prayer is that the Lord would continue to use her as a vessel and that she’d be a model of what prospective students see for their college career. “The Lord wants your heart and wants your gifts,” she said. “Even though I didn’t see it February of my senior year of high school, He had Tabor and singing on this worship team written down for me.”
Crist finds home at University of Missouri Health Care A dose of 2 a.m. inspiration set the course of Brett Crist’s career. Pursuing a degree in family medicine, Crist was on rotation for orthopaedic medicine during his fourth year of medical school at the University of Kansas. Even in the early hours of the morning, Crist (g’94) felt compelled to pursue this new path. Over the last 17 years of his career, that decision has been cemented. Crist, a native of Sioux Falls, S.D., originally chose South Dakota State University to pursue athletic training. Realizing he wanted to attend a smaller campus, he had to alter his plans since Tabor College didn’t offer the degree. Having shadowed medical professionals in his home state, Crist found that he didn’t want to just be behind the scenes—he wanted to walk alongside patients. After graduating from Tabor College in May 1994, Crist and his wife, Mary (Isaak, g’93), moved to Kansas City to obtain residency status. He began medical school at the University of Kansas the following year. In his fourth year of medical school, Crist took an elective of orthopaedic surgery and it only solidified his decision. “If you look back retrospectively, you can see God’s hand in where He has taken you,” Crist said. Crist completed his residency in orthopaedic surgery with the University of Kansas Internal Medicine Residency. He immediately pursued his fellowship, completing the program in one year at the UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento, Calif. He interviewed with the University of Missouri Health Care while he completed his fellowship and the Columbia, Mo., hospital has been home since accepting the position. Crist co-directs the Limb Preservation Center, one of the region’s only facilities that provides microsurgical reconstruction and multidisciplinary care. Injuries treated include complex extremity injuries, failed bone healing, bone deformity, limb lengthening, chronic infections and wounds. “A new chair started here and had a great vision for what he wanted to do,” Crist said of when he arrived. “It was an opportunity for another
person and me to develop the program we wanted to do for orthopedic trauma.” Crist has built an extensive portfolio through his stay in Columbia. He personally works in fracture care, including nonunion (surgically repaired bone deformities), malunion (bones that heal incorrectly after breaks) and infections. He also works in hip preservation and replacements. In August 2021, the University of Missouri Health Care detailed the story of a patient suffering from rickets, a rare disease that keeps the body from absorbing enough Vitamin D to keep bones and teeth strong. This patient experienced bowed legs and had surgery with Crist to repair stress fractures in her femurs (upper leg) and tibia (lower leg). The surgery, a complex clamshell osteotomy, required Crist to cut into the bones in order to insert rods to straighten and stabilize them. Within 11 months, the patient was walking unassisted and gained three inches in height. “I really like what I do, and I’ve never had a second thought of choosing what I do,” Crist said. “I felt God directed me on this path and I have the privilege and honor of helping people in their worst days.” After lengthy rehabilitation, Crist celebrates the new-and-improved quality of life for his patients. “When patients come back to clinic and they’re making gains and getting their life back, it’s super gratifying,” he said. “I always tell them, ‘You’ve made my day,’ because it’s great to see people progress when they’ve even struggled so much.”
Tabor College Graduate Studies
Earn a Graduate degree in Business • Ministry • Education
• Relevant • Convenient • Affordable tabor.edu/online learn@tabor.edu
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Thank you for helping us exceed our goal of
$100,000!
Gifts from $100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0
$112,289 Tabor Fund
$1,425 Academics
$675 Arts
$605
Athletics
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Total
15 States
*All numbers are not yet final.
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Participants
Alumni News
Becker/Sanchez
Cook/Holler
Hiebner/Huxman
Loera/Mexsen
Parr/King
Swedorski/Ediger
Weaver/Ediger
Charlie Dort
Olivia Larson
Hunter Schroeder
Isaiah Suderman
Ben Wiens
Carol Friesen
Glenn Thiessen
Hosea Bell
Inez Suderman
Larry Brandt
Rev James Morris
Wilmer Thiessen
Marriages Tevin (g’20) and Ashtyn (Wiebe g’21) Berry, married in Whitewater, Kan., on May 24, 2021 Seth (g’21) and Morgan (Ediger g’18) Swedorski, married in Linden, Mich., on June 6, 2021
Harper Allen
Drew and Kerensa (Holler g’20) Cook, married in Marion, Kan., on June 19, 2021 Joel and Tassanee (Sanchez g’20) Becker, married in Abbotsford, BC, on June 25, 2021 Johnny Loera (g’20) and Naima Loera-Mexsen (g’21), married in Torreon, Mexico, on July 3, 2021 Krista (Neifert g’16) and Jacob Sizemore, married in Pratt, Kan., on July 10, 2021 Austin (cs) and Maddie (Ediger cs) Weaver, married in Hillsboro, Kan., on July 10, 2021 Brandon (g’21) and Tyah (Jost g’21) Garcia, married in Littleton, Colo., on July 17, 2021 Matthew and Tiffany (Huxman g’17) Hiebner, married in Moundridge, Kan., on Sept. 4, 2021. Brian and Makenzie (King g’14) Parr, married in Fredricksburg, Texas, on Aug 22, 2020 (celebration with family & friends on Oct. 16, 2021)
Births/Adoptions Jeremy (g’16) and Jennifer (Crist g’17) Davidson, Hillsboro, Kan., a boy, Elias James, July 7, 2021 Ryan (g’14) and Rachel (Goering g’13) Loewen, Newton, Kan., a girl, Cora Louise, Aug. 16, 2021 Tyler (g’14) and Amanda (Faber g’12) Dort, McPherson, Kan., a boy, Charlie Hudson, Aug. 30, 2021 Tyler (’16) and Dayna (Wohlgemuth g’14) Davis, Wichita, Kan., a girl, Brynn Harper, Sept. 7, 2021 Kevin (g’07) and Jill (Crawford g’07) Larson, Hillsboro, Kan., a girl, Olivia Jean, Sept 9, 2021
TO READ OBITUARIES: visit www.tabor.edu/obituaries
Jesse (g’16) and Tara (Neufeld g’16) Allen, Hillsboro, Kan., a girl, Harper Christine, Sept. 17,2021 Adam (fs) and Jenae (Pauls g’11) Suderman, Derby, Kan., a boy, Isaiah Clay, Sept. 4, 2020. Cody (g’13) and Jessica (Klose g’13) Schroeder, Sedgwick, Kan., a boy, Hunter Nathaniel on June 15, 2021.
Deaths Rita (Williams g’80) Williams, 64, Troy, Ala., Jan. 1, 2020. Rev. James Morris (g’67), 87, Salem, Ore., July 26, 2020.
CODES
g – graduate fs – former student cs – current student f – faculty ff – former faculty st – staff fst – former staff fb – former board tcw – Tabor College Wichita
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A L U M N I
Heather Devoe
Amanda Friesen
N E W S
Rebecca Jorgenson
Sheree Nikkel-Dixon
Wilmer Thiessen (fs’56), 89, Wichita, Kan., Dec. 19, 2020. Joanna Wiebe (fs’67), 72, Vashon, Wash., Jan. 14, 2021. Raul Vera (fs’81), 63, Merriam, Kan., June 10, 2021. Larry Brandt (fs’67), 75, Springdale, Ark., June 21, 2021. Lowell Kliewer (fs’53), 88, Reedley, Calif., July 23, 2021. Duane Ratzlaff (fs’67), 75, Huntington Beach, Calif., Aug. 4, 2021. Ben Wiens (g’39), 102, Hillsboro, Kan., Aug. 19, 2021. Inez Suderman (fs’57), 83, Enid, Okla., Aug. 30, 2021. Glenn Thiessen (fs’76), 64, Claremore, Okla., Sept. 7, 2021. Hosea Bell (g’87), 57, Perkins, Okla., Sept. 17, 2021. Carol Friesen (g’54), 89, Hesston, Kan., Sept. 18, 2021. Don Wiens (g’80), 63, Battle Ground, Wash., Sept. 26, 2021. Jerry Janzen (g’77), 67, Reedley, Calif., Sept. 29, 2021.
Del and Gerry Reimer
Phil Warner
2000s Dr. Amanda Friesen (g’01) has joined the faculty of Western University, London, Ontario, Canada, as an Associate Professor of Political Science with tenure. She earned her PhD at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2012 and was a professor at Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis from 2012-2021. More about her research can be found at amandafriesen.com.
Other News Dr. Del (g’52) and Gerry (Toews g’76) Reimer celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on Oct. 6 (married in 1951, Enid, Okla.) Their children held a card shower for them, but if you would like to mail a card with personal comments, special memories or a recent photo of yourself, they would appreciate hearing from you. To get their mailing address call 620-947-3121 (ext. 1708) or email alumni@tabor.edu
Abe Siemens (fs’49), 91, Rancho Mirage, Calif., Oct. 3, 2021. Arlin Penner (g’67), 75, Bentonville, Ark., Dec., 2021
Alumni News – 1980s Phil Warner (g’82), elementary school music teacher with the Cumberland School District (Wisc.), retired after teaching for 23 years.
1990s Sheree Nikkel-Dixon (g’92), associate creative director/brand strategy, was named 2021 Marketer of the Year by the American Marketing Association Wichita Chapter during their virtual Marketing Awards luncheon on June 10, 2021. Heather Devoe (g’93), Edmond Santa Fe (Okla.) High School swimming coach, was selected as the Central Oklahoma Athletic Conference (COAC) Head Coach of the Year for 2021. Rebecca (Abbott) Jorgensen (fs’96), was recognized as Nebraska’s Outstanding Art Educator of the Year and received her award at the 2021 NATA Fall Conference Ceremony in Omaha, Neb.
Be Connected! Share what’s new in your life with the Tabor community
Please share your info/photos of marriages, births, career updates, recent honors/awards, etc.
Email: alumni@tabor.edu Facebook DM: /TaborCollege Instagram DM: /taborcollege Text: 620-877-7227 Call: 620-947-3121 xt 1708 Online: tabor.edu/alumni-friends and click “Be Connected”
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TEN THINGS TO CELEBRATE
AT TABOR COLLEGE IN 2020-21 Donor generosity Tabor fund $1,296,466 Restricted $2,564,388 Total gifts $3,860,854
Freshman enrollment record of 189 students in fall 2021 Met all financial obligations with
God’s provision and blessings!
Responded to COVID with both
online and face-to-face classes Dedicated a new
Indoor Tennis Facility
22 faculty presentations
The Tabor board selected Dr. David S. Janzen as Tabor’s 14th president Kaleigh Dill became Tabor’s first national champion as an athlete
or published works during the year
in track & field (shot put)
Tabor enrolled 49 students from MB churches, significantly enhancing campus culture
(Total enrollment from Tabor20 scholarship as of August 2021)
Launched a new Master of
Education in Neuroscience and Trauma with 34 students in the first cohort
TABOR COLLEGE Kingdom Awareness. Real World Readiness.
Tabor PROMISE WE PROMISE you will: • Be encouraged to place Christ at the center of all you do. • Be asked to pursue excellence in academics, athletics and the arts. • Be prepared for the real world. • Be made aware of your place in God’s kingdom.
tabor.edu/apply
Tabor ADVANTAGE Your ADVANTAGE is: • Understanding your career as a calling. • Being able to obtain a double major in 4 years. • Having the opportunity to complete a degree in 3 years. • Learning and practicing leadership. • Paying an All Inclusive Price.
tabor.edu/visit
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Non-Profit Org.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Permit #20 Hillsboro KS
Tabor College Connection 400 South Jefferson Hillsboro, KS 67063 Address Service Requested
Please contact us if your address is incorrect: advancement@tabor.edu
Upcoming Events Dec. 4-Jan. 2
Christmas Break
Jan. 3
Interterm Classes Begin
Jan. 5-Jan. 27 2022 Interterm Trips (Guatemala & France) Feb. 1
Second Semester Begins
March 3 & 5
Spring Theatre Show
March 14-18
Spring Break
For a complete list of upcoming events, please visit our calendar online at tabor.edu/calendar.