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Summer 2020 • Vol. 74 / No. 2

Inside: Presidential Leadership Program Holy Land Trip Special COVID-19 Response Section

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From the President

Follow along with Dr. Glanzer’s travels and campus events on Twitter. /presglanzer

I am writing this article on the weekend that normally the campus is bustling with Commencement activities. Not so this year. I am confident the graduating class of 2015 when asked “Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?” not a single person got the answer right. COVID-19 changed everything. This year’s graduating class even more so is facing an uncertain future. As a college, we are now adjusting to how we will function post-COVID-19. From the beginning of this global crisis, our foundation scripture was Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will direct your path. We are trusting Him and relying on His direction. True to our history, we are moving through the crisis and planning for reopening in Fall on time with on-ground classes, online classes, athletic competitions, performing arts activities and residential housing available for students. We are preparing to serve our students, employees, community, guests and vendors in a safe, acceptable and reasonable way. The health, safety and welfare of the Tabor community is our top priority. As we move back to a new normalcy, we realize that the disruption is creating a new set of rules that will govern what and how we function as a college. No one knows exactly what higher education will look like in the next decade. However, there are some principles that will guide us as we enter the post-COVID-19 era. 1. Honor our traditions. I believe that it is important that we carefully select those things from our past that we hold on to firmly. In times of significant disruption, uncertainty and turmoil, it is good to identify time-honored traditions that provide stability, comfort and continuity.

Seek opportunities. The COVID-19 disruption is providing us significant opportunities to increase our effectiveness, efficiency and service of our many constituencies. Hybrid programs for our residential students, online programming for traditional age students that do not want to leave home for college and unique online programs that expand our influence are just some of the opportunities we are exploring. 3. Do less and do it better. We need to focus on maintaining and increasing excellence in what we do and diligently keep from spreading ourselves too thin. It is important that we keep the main thing the main thing. We need to go deeper and not wider. 4. Do what we can with where we are with what we have. We need to celebrate and maximize our strengths and recognize our limitations. We cannot be all things to all people. 5. Practice adaptive leadership. Adaptive leadership theory addresses what happens when the situation is not what was expected or planned for and it requires that a group come together to move forward into the unknown under these new realities. Metaphorically stated, how does one canoe the mountains when you were expecting a river on the plains. By God’s grace and guidance, the work that we did the past four years on creating our new business model and student value proposition prepared us well for the fallout of COVID-19. The Tabor Promise is a solid foundation to build upon. The Tabor Advantage is attractive to the generation of students whose school experience was disrupted by COVID-19. Together these give us a distinct head start as we travel into the unknown. We have. We can. We are. We will overcome and be stronger and better equipped as we trust, lean and acknowledge Him who directs our paths helping us fulfill our mission of preparing people for a life of learning, work, and service for Christ and His kingdom.

President Jules Glanzer

Connection Summer 2020 Vol. 74 No. 2 A magazine for Tabor College alumni & friends Editor Don Ratzlaff donr@tabor.edu Contributor Aleen Ratzlaff aleenr@tabor.edu Senior Designer Diane Oborny dianeo@tabor.edu Photographer/Webmaster Michael Klaassen michaelwklaassen@tabor.edu Director of Alumni Relations Rod Hamm rodneyhamm@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.” Front cover: On May 20, 1919, building operations began and over the next 11 months the building we now know as the Lohrenz Administration was built. @TaborCollege /TaborCollege /taborcollege /taborcollege /company/tabor-college /taborcollege Tabor Webcast

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From the President Tabor Is Family Alumni Spotlight All-Inclusive Pricing Presidential Leadership Program Business Symposium Special COVID-19 Section Interterm Trips Lohrenz Building 100 years Dr. Martin Luther King Chapel Holy Land Trip Tabor Theatre Project SEARCH New Organization Emerges Sports Alumni News

We’re Online! Visit tabor.edu/connection to read the latest issue of The Connection and pass it along to friends and family. If you would like to receive an online copy of the magazine, please sign up by visiting tabor.edu/connection.

For up-to-date news, go to tabor.edu/news

Board of Directors: Susan Koslowsky Chair Diana Raugust Vice Chair Ted Faszer Secretary Loren Balzer Treasurer Darrell Driggers At Large Craig Ratzlaff At Large

Roger Ediger At Large Rick Eshbaugh Anna Glanzer Student Rep Jeral Gross Melissa Gutierrez Andrew Jost Mark Jost Kelly Kirby Jerry Kliewer Nate Loewen

Wendell Loewen Faculty Rep Dean Nachtigall Jeff Nikkel Dennis Penner Craig Quiring Pat Redding Elaine SetzerMaxwell Tim Sullivan Wilbur Unrau Richard Unruh Denise Wiens

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

‘Tabor Is Family’ Alyssa Matney

Photo courtesy Alyssa Matney

2019 Interterm Trip to Belize

Photo courtesy Alyssa Matney

Alyssa Matney

Tabor College is more than a community. We are Tabor College also provides countless opportunities for a family. This family has become extremely near and students like me to be led and to lead others. Between my dear to my heart these past three years. As a firstrole as a residential assistant, student assistant cheerleading generation college student and the first member in my coach, junior class president, science club vice president, family to pursue a career in the medical field, Tabor and so many more, Tabor has planted seeds of leadership College has been the greatest support system and step- in my life personally. And my many opportunities help me ping stone to prepare me for the future. grow each day to be prepared to have influence and to make Reflecting on the past three years, I find great joy. a difference in the world. There have been ups, downs, trials and tribulations. I Although I could continue to write about how transforam not even close to the same person I was three years mational my experience at Tabor has been thus far, I want to ago–- or even three months ago. Three years ago, I was pause. Each and every person reading this article is a critia girl who chose to come to a small-town, private colcal part of the life-changing experience that Tabor provides lege to continue her education. And, most importantly students. I want to thank each and every one of you for your at the time, achieve my goal of being a collegiate cheer- prayers, acts of service and financial contributions. These leader. Little did I know my time at Tabor would consist acts of kindness and generosity are a foundational part of of me developing a relationship with Jesus for the first what makes students experience at Tabor College transtime, having multiple cross-cultural experiences, and formational, impactful, and memorable. I will forever be gaining lifelong leadership skills. grateful for Tabor College providing me with opportunities Prior to coming to Tabor, I knew of Jesus but I did to develop a relationship with Jesus for the first time, have not know Jesus. I did not go to church every Sunday, multiple cross-cultural experiences, and gain lifelong leaderparticipate in Bible studies, or even pray every day. ship skills. – Alyssa Matney My Bible was a book that sat on the shelf and collected dust. Tabor has provided numerous opportunities and outlets for me to learn and grow spiritually. Those opportunities have allowed me to come to know Jesus in a personal way. All of the chapel sessions, Wednesday night worship, prayer groups, and discipleship events encouraged me to finally stop living for 2017 Tabor College Science Club the desires of this world and to surrender my life to Christ. Although nothing can top the life-changing experience of giving my life to Christ, Tabor has also allowed me to participate and immerse myself in multiple cross-cultural experiences that have completely changed my perspective in several aspects of my life. For instance, during Interterm, Tabor provides the experience of a lifetime for students to travel to other countries and encounter another culture and perspective of life. Last year during Interterm, I had the privilege of traveling to Belize on a biology learning trip to acquire knowledge about the rain forest and marine life. Just this Interterm, I was able to go on my first mission trip to Peru called ACTION Tabor with Multiply. These trips challenged me with three ideas: to live for the Kingdom culture, to be more relationship-oriented rather than task-oriented, Photo from 2020 ACTION Tabor Mission Trip to Peru. and to lead myself before I can lead others.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Brian Goentzel, MD (g’03)

February 21, 2020, Presidential Dinner Reflection I am very blessed and honored to have spent my undergraduate years at Tabor and truly believe that the College was instrumental in preparing me for my career in medicine, life as a husband and father, and most importantly strengthening the foundation of my faith in Jesus Christ. As I prepared to share this reflection I really desired to highlight what was unique and special about Tabor College and how that helped to prepare me for my future. Ultimately what became evident was that when I really broke it down to its core, there were three main elements. First, Tabor College helped prepare me for my future by incorporating extracurricular activities. I was lucky to participate in football at Tabor and was part of quite possibly the greatest turnarounds in college football history. I also participated in drama, a homecoming musical, and multiple on-campus activities. Those who have attended Tabor understand this seems commonplace. I can assure that it is quite different at other colleges and universities. This active participation taught me hard work, dedication, leadership and critical time-management skills. I still remember days consisting of waking up for early morning workouts, attending classes all day, going to afternoon practice/weight training, eating dinner, watching film, then going to play musical practices, and attempting to study in there somewhere. This busy schedule probably prepared me better than anything else in my life for the rigorous schedule that medical school and residency required. This is best highlighted by a particularly difficult football practice with Coach Tim McCarty, who, during wind sprints at the end of practice, urged us on by stating that “your teammates don’t care if you are tired, don’t care if you are hurting, or if you are sick….they only care if you finish.” Many times during my life and career, when my days are long, busy, tiring and at times overwhelming, I can still hear those words in the back of my mind. The next way Tabor helped to shape my future was through the personal touch of its academic programs. First, I do not want to make light of the academic reputation or rigor at Tabor College because I strongly believe I was well prepared for my career in medicine. During my medical education I have been surrounded by classmates who have trained at some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, and I can assure you that my Tabor College education had me as prepared as those students. However, the reality is that biology, chemistry and physics can be found in many textbooks and are being taught at colleges and universities around our state and country. What makes Tabor unique is the personal touch that professors here incorporate into these subjects. During my time at Tabor College I can remember Dr. Bruce Heyen inviting us to his house for his famous fajitas and liquid nitrogen ice cream, going to TESA with Dr. Max Terman to collect insects to study the edge effect, backpacking Europe with Dr. Richard Kyle and literally

experiencing history jump off the pages of the textbooks that I had read. I believe that this for me was highlighted by a specific analytical chemistry lab with Dr. Allen Hiebert that I managed to sleep through. I am sure I was up late studying. These labs were two parts, so at the midpoint of the lab that I slept through I got a phone call in my dorm room. Of course, it was Dr. Hiebert, who was calling to check on me. His phone call was not one of malice, which I surely deserved, but was one of concern. He called to see if I was sick, all right, or if I needed anything. The reality is that I could have learned analytical chemistry at Kansas State, Wichita State or even Harvard, but for me professors like Dr. Hiebert here at Tabor College really helped my education come to life and provided the ultimate preparation for my future endeavors. Finally, Tabor College helped to build the foundation of my faith in Jesus Christ. This was done through being not just a Christian school or affiliated with a church, but truly being Christ-centered. As I reflected on the idea of Tabor being Christ-centered, I can now see how it involved literally every aspect of my time here. As a part of the football team, I got to see for the first time in my life quality coaches who loved winning football games, but loved Jesus more. During my time spent performing plays and a homecoming musical, I was able to spend time with Judy Harder, who allowed me and others to discuss and tackle difficult topics and issues presented in these performances, but always doing it in a way that reflected the love of Jesus. As a resident assistant, I worked closely with Judy Hiebert and my resident director who always cared about following the rules, but did so because of a deep desire to help students deepen their spiritual lives and to help them not fall into sin and temptation. Finally, all my professors excelled in teaching their specific subject, but did so in a way that would weave their faith in Jesus into each subject. A perfect example of this was Dr. Heyen taking time to pray with his chemistry classes prior to tests. I am so thankful for this foundation as it has become the rock with which my life has been built. This is best represented by the following example. Following the completion of my degree, I moved to Oklahoma City and began working in a

GOENTZEL Cont. page 6

Tabor’s ‘All-Inclusive Pricing’ simplifies college costs Calculating the cost of college can be confusing. But Tabor College is making it simple with its All-Inclusive Pricing, effective with the 202021 academic year. All-Inclusive Pricing for full-time residential students includes tuition, room, board (meals), fees, laundry and accident insurance for one price. Institutional aid (scholarships and grants), federal or state

grants, loans and outside scholarships are subtracted from the All-Inclusive Price, making the billing statement simple to understand. Tabor’s All-Inclusive Pricing has parents in mind. “No surprises, no hassle, advantage,” said President Jules Glanzer. ”You’re not going to be nickel-and-dimed.” Tabor’s “All-Inclusive Price” offers additional advantages for students and families. • Overloads are free, so based upon students’ GPA, they can enroll in additional credit hours. • Tabor is waiving all credit-card fees. • The financial aid office and the business office have simplified the process and the content to communicate with families. The billing statement is easy to understand.

Goentzel Cont. from page 5

biochemistry research lab at the University of Oklahoma. The first Sunday in Oklahoma City, I set out to find a church and a small group of believers to fellowship with. The first church I attended was Life Church, and the information desk helped to find a small group to attend. One of the first people I met was one of the leaders, who eventually became my wife. In closing, to many who attended or are familiar with Tabor, these stories and examples are not surprising – and in fact may seem commonplace.

Tabor College

Decidedly Christian Academically Excellent

”Premium” or “Platinum” housing upgrades are available at a modest additional cost. For students who qualify and choose to live off-campus, a special rate applies to them. Tabor is also providing books to all the students on the Hillsboro campus, using money raised from our generous donors to pay the annual cost. All-Inclusive Pricing is just one of the advantages of attending Tabor College.

However, I can assure you that my time spent in higher education has helped me realize they truly are not. In fact. they are quite unique and truly set Tabor College apart. My wife did not attend Tabor, but has seen and heard about my stories and experiences along with those of my lifelong friends from Tabor. She can also see how it is a distinctly unique place. It is for these reasons that we have chosen to support Tabor College, and we thank you for your continued support as well. – Brian Goentzel

THE TABOR ADVANTAGE Graduate in 3 years. Double major in 4 years. tabor.edu • admissions@tabor.edu • (620) 947-3121

Students selected for Tabor’s Presidential Leadership Program

Danielle Allison

Justin Burman

Megan Brock

Sebastian Mireles

Tabor College has selected four high school seniors to participate in the Presidential Leadership Program (PLP) for 2020-21. Candidates were evaluated on campus Feb. 16-17. They participated in various activities, interviews and team assignments. PLP is a two-track program that includes Scholars and Fellows. During the students’ visit, Tabor College President Jules Glanzer and Erin Barocio, director of the PLP fellow program, interviewed each individual. “Hosting the presidential leadership program candidates is an honor and pure joy,” said President Glanzer. “These men and women are highcapacity individuals who are inspiring to meet and enjoyable to get to know. Interviewing the candidates is always an enriching experience. Selecting the Scholars is very difficult because all of the candidates are worthy of the honor.” The mission of the PLP is to prepare people to be persons of influence, learning how to lead well and influence the world to be more what God intended it to be. Scholars are awarded up to $22,000 in scholarship, while Fellows are awarded $6,000. The 2020 class of Scholars are: Danielle Allison, Oakley, Kan.; Megan Brock, Poolville, Texas; Justin Burman, Cimarron, Kan.; and Sebastian Mireles, McAllen, Texas.

Tabor business symposium links entrepreneurship and mission The Tabor College Business Department, in partnership with the Carson Center for Global Education, hosted its first business symposium Feb. 28 on the Tabor College campus to explore the topic, “Risk Taking Ventures in Entrepreneurship.” About 150 people participated during the day. “The goal was to offer something for Tabor College students in the community, but also to add value to the missional community,” said Craig Jost, Carson Center director. “What I’ve heard from the student side, it was a very eye-opening day. They encountered some things they had never thought about. “Could we imagine that there would could be a rural entrepreneurship that could have a spiritual impact, but also an impact on our economy?” Jost added. “One of the goals was to inspire not only our business students, but also our community to think outside the box, to innovate and to look at ways to make an impact in our Christian mission.” Staci Janzen, Tabor’s assistant professor of Business Administration, said, “Our mission was to bring value to Tabor’s educational community and to the larger regional community by collaborating with high-level entrepreneurs from surrounding communities while creating connections for Tabor students and our stakeholders. This one-day symposium provided two featured speakers, five breakout sessions, a community luncheon, and networking sessions for participants. Lead speaker Randy Ataide is an active investor and adviser in multiple for-profit and nonprofit companies and organizations across the globe.

He currently promotes economic, entrepreneurial and personal development and growth within Portugal as the president of the nonprofit Friends of Portugal. Afternoon speaker Dr. Paul White, a Wichita psychologist, author and consultant, provided effective coaching in the workplace to make work relationships Randy Ataide more effective. The symposium included six breakout sessions with a focus on the future of entrepreneurship and how entrepreneurship can enhance faithful Christian witness. The topics were: “Business as Mission,” led by Damon Young with LEAD Wichita; “Mission Drift,” led by Jon Wiebe, MB Foundation; “International Entrepreneurship,” led by Ted Kriwiel, 8 Oaks NetWork Kansas; “Rural Entrepreneurship,” led by Sarah LaRosh, NetWork Kansas; “Entrepreneurship Social Justice,” led by Aaron Dixon, owner of First Impressions Litter Management; and “Entrepreneurship 101,” led by Clint Seibel. The symposium was sponsored by the Nachtigall Lectureship Series. 7

SPECIAL COVID-19 RESPONSE SECTION

President Glanzer broadcasts address to Tabor employees President Jules Glanzer recently addressed the employees of Tabor College to provide an informational update, as well as encouragement to those who have responded in magnificent ways to needed adaptations. Included here are some excerpts from his address. I am so thankful for all of you and your ‘Can Do’ attitude along with your ‘Dig In and Do It’ mentality. We are witnessing Tabor at its finest. Your hard work and willing spirit is incredible. Creativity and innovation, generosity, empowerment and results are being practiced in ways I never imagined. We have. We can. We are. I am also thankful to the Lord for his watchful eye and continual presence. We are experiencing as a college Isaiah 42:16. I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them. Those words are an understatement. We are going down an unfamiliar path that has darkness and is rough. But we are being led and guided with the Light himself showing the way and making paths smooth before us. We are not alone. Christ is walking beside us and is with us every step of the way. As you know, our entire society has hit the reset button. And it is not like the Staples big red “Easy” button, but rather more like a complete reboot of our operating system and some of the APPs have vanished in the process. In one week, we transitioned from a residential college to an online college. We were not alone. The entire nation of higher education institutions did the same. My conviction is that the result will be a radical shift of the paradigm of higher education. The college experience, as we know it, will be different. I will share more about that at another time. But for today, I want you to know what Tabor is doing to deal with this major disruption with the intended outcome of being strong and sustainable.

Did you know:

• Our faculty transitioned over 375 credit hours of courses from on-ground to online in one week, resulting in our students being able to complete the semester earning over 5,550 credits. • Our admissions team created virtual campus tours and last week made more than 400 contacts of prospective students. • Our advancement team made almost 500 phone calls to our donors in the past days. These were Partner Care calls just to check in with

our people. Many calls lasted over 30 minutes because people just want to talk about what is happening. A mailing went out yesterday to our friends and alumni asking for their support. • Coaches have been recruiting virtually, like crazy. • Performing artists are creating a virtual cell phone choir. Stay tuned for their rendition release. • Student life has been in touch with every student, some multiple times, arranging for move out. • Student success has gone virtual in helping students succeed in our virtual delivery. • Communications has ramped up keeping people informed. • Facilities is keeping everything as germ-free as possible. • And the business office is keeping it all running smoothly without any hiccups. These are just some of the activities that we are engaged in to mitigate the coronavirus disruption. My thanks to all of you for your creativity and dedication to overcoming this disruption. You are my heroes. Finally, thanks to the generosity of the board of directors, each of you will be receiving a small token of appreciation for all the hard work and positive attitude with which you have gone about this difficult time. Next week there will be an envelope in your campus mailbox with a gift for you. Of course, your next pay check will show a slight increase in taxes withheld, which is not something that we have a say in. But nevertheless, the board wants you to know that you are appreciated deeply. Thank you for “Digging in and Doing it” with a positive “Can Do” attitude.” The address was broadcast to employees via Zoom technology with the technical expertise of the IT department at Tabor. The many remote employees were able to watch this via iPads and laptops from their homes. Thanks to many who are reaching out to Tabor with their love, prayers and support! The world needs Tabor now more than ever, and Tabor needs you now more than ever.

Academic criteria modified for admissions decisions The Tabor College Admissions Office is announcing a special provision to assist prospective students in the admissions process during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the national ACT & SAT Spring 2020 test dates being canceled, Tabor will not require a test score for students who have not taken it yet. Instead, the Admissions Office will 8

use the high school GPA as the primary acceptance measure for Fall 2020 applicants. To view our Admissions COVID-19 FAQs visit tabor.edu/admissionsfaq More details are available by contacting the Admissions Office at 620-947-3121 or admissions@tabor.edu.

Tabor College Board of Directors met virtually on May 1 The board of directors meeting, chaired by alumna Susan Franz Koslowsky, was held virtually using Zoom technology. Thanks to the studiolike environment board members were able to engage and participate with presenters from the College administration. Breakout groups were used for committee meetings. As expected, the COVID-19 pandemic and its realities, impact and effect on Tabor College dominated the meeting. The Board approved unanimously that Tabor College will reopen in the Fall by the customary August start dates with mitigating strategies in place to deal with the coronavirus reality. The decision was thoroughly vetted by the board with special concern for the Hillsboro community.

The board also:

• Approved 130 students for graduation in May (19 from School of Liberal Arts, 88 from School of Professional Studies, and 23 from School of Graduate Studies). • Approved the online tuition rates for 2020-21 year. • Elected Anna Glanzer to the board as student representative. • Elected Wendell Loewen to the board as faculty representative.

President Jules Glanzer expressed appreciation for board members’ service: “I am thankful for the commitment and dedication of the board and the wisdom they shared as we discussed the effect of COVID-19 on Tabor. Their understanding and insights are deeply appreciated.”

Graduation rescheduled for October Commencement is a milestone in Tabor’s annual calendar and a time for students and their families to celebrate a major accomplishment. Unfortunately, the global health situation has necessitated postponing the event, originally scheduled for May 23. Degrees still will be officially conferred in May so students who need transcripts for graduate school or employment will be able to receive them. “It is important that seniors, who have had the normal May graduation memories taken away from them through no fault of their own, have an opportunity to enjoy the rituals and ceremonial aspect of commencement,” said President Jules Glanzer. The event has been rescheduled for Sunday, Oct. 11, coinciding with homecoming weekend festivities. The commencement ceremony will be at 10 a.m. in the Joel H. Wiens Stadium. Steve Wilkens (g’77), PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary, professor of philosophy and ethics at Azusa Pacific University, and author of books What’s So Funny About God? A Theological Look At Humor; Hidden Worldviews; Christianity and Western Thought and Beyond Bumper Sticker Ethics, has been chosen to deliver the keynote address. “We remain committed to offering a commencement experience that is equal to what we would have done in May,” said Dr. Frank Johnson, executive vice president of academics. “It will be a time set aside to honor our graduates with the same significance and celebration we otherwise would have expected.” Graduating seniors and their families will also be invited to a president’s party on the campus green following commencement. “Friends and family can gather for the entire weekend on campus and enjoy the event amongst friends,” Glanzer said.

SPECIAL COVID-19 RESPONSE SECTION

Tabor students retrieving their belongings from residence halls

order presented unique challenges for the College to have students retrieve their belongings. Yet, the Student Life team has met these challenges.”

Photo courtesy Hannah Klaassen

Tabor College developed an express check-out process to give students the opportunity to retrieve their belongings. Out of an abundance of caution, as well as taking into consideration the health and welfare of the Tabor and the Hillsboro community, Tabor took measured steps to help students retrieve their belongings. The moveout process, which gained county and state approval, was structured in a way that limited the number of students on campus so we could navigate social distancing, group restrictions, and the Kansas stay-home order. Before giving clearance for students to come back to campus, they were asked to fill out a health-screening questionnaire and an expectations form. Since the express check-out process removed the face-to-face interaction with staff on campus, detailed instructions along with a phone hotline were provided to students with questions. On students’ selected day and time on move-out, Tabor made sure the timing was spread out over the residence halls and houses so there was limited to no interaction with another student and their family. It was a slow process, but every student was given an opportunity to start his or her check-out process to retrieve their belongings. Move out was completed May 15. Emir Ruiz-Esparza, dean of student life, learning and formation, noted, “I have been very grateful to have an incredible student life staff and a collaborative relationship with facilities during this COVID-19 pandemic. The social distancing guidelines, group restrictions and the Kansas stay-home

Hannah and Pierce Klaassen retrieve their belongings with the assistance of their mother, Tabor alum Lisa (Braun g’90) Klaassen

Tabor College moves to online instruction for remainder of the spring semester

Photo courtesy Chris Espinosa

Chris Espinosa, senior 10

Jocelyne Van Meter, freshman

Photo courtesy Aleen Ratzlaff

personnel and activities and events were canceled for the remainder of the semester. Student refund policies were communicated to students via email. We are practicing what Proverbs 3:5-6 says: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.

Photo courtesy Jocelyne Van Meter

In response to the national health crisis, as well as the Marion County Department of Health directive, Tabor College has announced these operational decisions: Tabor College canceled all Hillsboro classroom courses for the rest of the semester with all educational instruction conducted online. The Hillsboro campus was closed to guests and nonemployee

Aleen Ratzlaff, Ph.D., professor of Communications

Student Success office strengthens classroom support Tabor’s Student Success office participated with students transitioning to classes being taught online this semester. “We had to figure out what some of the biggest hurdles would be for them to overcome,” said Aimee Hennigh, director of Student Success. “Our team reached out to every student to check in, and we used the information that students gave us to determine the needs of students during this transition period. We are so thankful for the students opening up to us and telling us what their fears were, areas they were uncertain, and struggles they were facing. “I don’t feel like the transition online has been very difficult for the Student Success team,” Hennigh said. “The hardest part has been missing the closeness and fun interactions that you can have with students in person that you can’t get through Zoom. We often had students stopping in our office to share their success stories with a test or an assignment, and we miss those interactions.” She added, “We’ve maintained weekly Zoom meetings with students (some of which we weren’t meeting with before COVID), and we are sending out weekly ‘check-in’ emails that we weren’t doing before. Some students haven’t been responsive, so we’ve reached out in all formats – phone, text, email, Canvas message, professor.” Contacting students and hearing their positivity has been so refreshing. “None of us asked for this and certainly wouldn’t want this to continue; yet, they are persevering through it all, which gives me the motivation

to keep going every day. Some students have really done well with this. Others have really struggled, but I’m so proud of all of them.” The connection goes both ways. “I can’t tell you how many responses we have gotten back from students thanking us for reaching out to them,” Hennigh said. “They miss the connection of Tabor College. The community that Tabor is known for is definitely missed, and students have been very appreciative of still being able to experience a taste of that from their own homes.” – Aimee Hennigh, Director of Student Success

Our commitment as we serve:

Tabor PROMISE We want to provide a compelling college experience.

Tabor ADVANTAGE The ADVANTAGE is best described as real-world readiness, kingdom awareness.

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.

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.

Interterm Trips Over Interterm, Tabor College sent 14 students to three different continents to engage in Kingdom work. Some engaged in social ecological outreach in Central Asia, others dove into ministry in Peru and still others engaged in cutting-edge business outreach in Portugal. The articles first appeared in The Tabor View, the student publication Nepal Learning Trip

Photo courtesy The Tabor View

Eight Tabor women embarked on a January adventure that would take them almost halfway across the globe, and well beyond their comfort zone. The learning trip was led by Dr. Lara Vanderhoof, Tabor’s Social Work program director. The women experienced Nepal in full force in the course of two weeks in January. Upon arrival, the Tabor group teamed up with another group of about 10 fellow Americans interested in this foreign country. A major focal point of the trip was sex trafficking, a major threat to Nepal’s safety. Sophomore Mei Kirchhoff said that their stop at one particular organization was most influential. “We went to the head office of Shari Samuha, and we got to talk to the founder who started that,” Kirchhoff said. “Their misPictured left to right: Dr. Lara Vanderhoof, Hannah sion is to fight Funk, Tessa Isaac, Maddie Ediger, Olivia Brubacher, against human trafMei Kirchhoff, Madison Brown and Madison ficking. Not only Sheppard

do they do the work for the women, but they work with the women to integrate them into society and their families.” In addition to visiting and learning from the forces fighting against sex trafficking, Tabor’s women also experienced parts of the dominant Nepali religion: Hindusim. Through the two weeks the Tabor troop walked through a few Hindu temples, even observing a Hindu worship ceremony. “It was packed with people who wanted to get some blessings from their gods,” Kirchoff said. “It was really hard for me personally because I’d never experienced spiritual warfare, so going to that, I just felt so attacked.” While the lessons linger with importance, the team was able to live on the lighter side of Nepal, including chasing the sunrise and sunset, taking mountainous treks and even participating in a Nepali dance. Now back in the comfort of America, the women have held tightly to their experiences in Nepal, each carrying a piece of the country’s own heart. –Kara Schlotthauer, The Tabor View

Peru Mission Trip

When most students think of Interterm at Tabor, the first thing that comes to mind might be lengthy three-hour classes or the extended cafeteria lines during the lunch hour. But for four young women on Tabor’s campus, the month of January was a life-changing experience. Students Alyssa Matney, Jessica Buller, Kate Reimer and Taylor Quiring chose to be a part of Tabor’s ACTION program in Piura, Peru, for nearly three weeks in January. The Peru team was led by Catherine Christie (g’17), a Tabor graduate. The team’s goal was to spread joy and share the heart of God to the Peruvian people around them.

Photo courtesy Alyssa Matney

Perspective by Taylor Quiring

This trip to Peru has significantly changed me in various ways. My view on missions is completely different after returning from this trip. Living on mission is about building relationships, loving others and living like Jesus lived. There are many hard realities in ministering cross-culturally. Staying close to the Lord in the “valley” is sometimes the only thing to do. I have seen strong women come out of deep waters with more joy than I have ever seen before because they have relied on God. My perspective on my own life has completely changed as well. I understand that I am not in control of my life. God is. He has a bigger plan for my life than I could ever imagine. Surrendering myself to Him and saying yes to Him is what He wants me to do. This experience has allowed me to open my heart to the Lord and let Him work in me. I no longer desire control over my future because I have given that control to God. Along with giving up control, I also have let God tell me who I am. He says who I am, not anyone else, including myself. This is not easy for me to do, but letting God determine my identity is the most freeing thing I can do. God has shown me a glimpse of his power, and I am ready to see more.” – Taylor Quiring, ACTION Tabor Peru Trip

All four women said they continue to stay in contact with friends in Peru and confirmed that they would return to Peru in a heartbeat. – Toby Penner, The Tabor View

Portugal Mission Trip

Students Mariah Linton, Ariana Miller and Whitnee Patterson packed their bags and their love for Christ and traveled to Portugal for Interterm. Upon arrival, they discovered the trip was different than what they expected a mission trip to be. A country’s culture plays a huge role in the experience and the outreach of missionaries. Tabor’s team worked in a business setting and used their skills to connect with the locals. “It’s important that you stay Pictured left to right: Mariah open and flexible, and that you Litton, Ariana Miller, Portuguese focus on what God has for you student Alena and Whitnee then and there,” Patterson said. “The first thing was that you Patterson. don’t have to know someone to love them,” she added. “Going to Portugal made my heart crave to love more as Jesus did. The second thing is that you can serve God outside of church and ministry organizations. I know that will not be easy, but if I can just plant a seed in people’s hearts, God will take care of the rest.” – Emily Crow, The Tabor View Photo courtesy The Tabor View

Photo courtesy The Tabor View

“God showed me the power of leaning on and walking with other people,” said Reimer, who was especially affected by this approach. Another objective was to support Joanna Chapa and Stacy Kuhns, both of whom live in Peru as full-time missionaries. Buller praised these women, describing them as “two of the best people on the planet.” The Tabor team accomplished these goals, using their specific avenues of ministry. They also helped organize a VBS program for mothers and grandmothers of all ages, and they provided daycare services for the children whose parents were part of the Peruvian Mennonite Brethren annual conference. The team also joined young Peruvian girls on a weekend retreat, which served as a preview to a discipleship program overseen by Kuhns and Chapa. The team experienced various barriers and successes during their time in Peru. Each team member faced and overcame hindrances such as sickness, personal fears and a language barrier. Perhaps the most important aspect of the trip was the personal transformation that took place. “(God) broke lies that I had believed for so long, and He taught me how to listen to his voice,” Quiring said. Matney added, “God used this trip to encourage me to embrace three things: my identity in Christ, vulnerPictured left to right: Taylor Quiring, ability and the story God has Catherine Christie, Alyssa Matney, Jessica given me. Buller and Kate Reimer.

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Original Tabor building

Current H.W. Lohrenz building

Lohrenz Building has served Tabor for over 100 years This article originally ran on Tabor Day, April 30, 2020

Today we celebrate 100 years of God’s faithfulness in using the Lohrenz Administration Building on our campus to prepare students for a life of learning, work and service for Christ and His kingdom. On April 30, 1918, between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., the first and only Tabor College building caught fire. Within the hour, the entire building was reduced to ashes. In the 1923 yearbook, Professor Renetta Schultz described that morning: “‘Tabor is burning!’ went like a sharp arrow through the hearts of those, Original Tabor building on fire on to whom Tabor means so April 30, 1918 much. Flames were coming through the roof before help was near. Apparently with electric speed, the fire rushed medley through the rooms, usurping foreign territory. The chemical laboratory responded with one explosion after another. The $500 piano gave but Friends of Tabor working to clean up and one low bass sound when it broke through the floor sort the rubble. of the music room. The hand-painted pictures on the walls of the art room endured their fate patiently. The hundreds of volumes in the library in vain stretched out their pleading hands for help. Helplessly, with tear-dimmed eyes and bleeding hearts, faculty, students and friends saw their hope crumble into ashes. One loud horrible Construction of the H.W. Lohrenz Building crash, the walls caved in, 14

and the Tabor building was no more.” Two hours later, at 10 a.m. students, faculty, staff and friends gathered in the Mennonite Brethren Church for chapel exercises. In the 1923 yearbook it was written: “Never were hearts more united than at that moment. Never was the Tabor Song sung with more feeling than that morning after the ‘trial by fire.’” By 2 p.m. that day, community members and friends of the college agreed that “…Tabor had at least a thousand friends in Marion County who could each give a hundred dollars toward the erection of a bigger and better Tabor.” The next morning students and faculty raised an additional $10,000. By 8 a.m. on May 2, salvaging forces were organized and began toiling in the ashes. The building committee hired architect William Mampe of Kansas City to design a fire-proof structure that was 132 feet long, 96 feet wide and three stories high. On May 20, 1919, building operations began and over the next 11 months the building we now know as the H.W. Lohrenz Administration was built. On April 30, 1920, students, faculty and staff paused from classwork held in various buildings around Hillsboro and moved into the new building. In 1921, and for many years after, April 30 was known as “Tabor Day.” This day has been set aside as a memorial day for the school and spent in retrospection about all that has made Tabor possible. In 2000, the building was renamed in honor of Tabor’s founding president, Dr. H.W. Lohrenz. Now, 100 years later, we invite you to pause and remember the work that the Lord has done to transform the lives of the people Founding President who studied and worked within its walls. H.W. Lohrenz who Dr. Frank Johnson writes, “From ashes, served from 1908-1931 hope arose and Tabor overcame. It turns out that overcoming is part of our DNA. Please be encouraged as we, hopefully, begin to arise from this COVID-19 pandemic that has ravaged the world. For much of the past century April 30 was an annual college holiday. Take a moment to celebrate ‘Tabor Day’ today.” – Michael Klaassen (g’13), Digital Content Manager

Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. Pastor Jay Johnson spoke for chapel in February to pay tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He shared that some mistakenly believe that Dr. King acquired his nonviolent philosophy from Mahatma Gandhi, while actually he wrote these words several years before traveling to India. His source of nonviolent philosophy was the life and witness of Jesus Christ, not some social or political ideology. From a very young age, his convictions were shaped in the church and by the Bible. Johnson referred to a passage that informed Dr. King’s approach: He did not retaliate when He was insulted, nor threaten revenge when He suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. 1 Peter 2:23 “Agape is the love that God has for us. It’s the type of love that seeks another’s highest good. It’s the love that compelled Jesus to leave the splendor and glory of heaven and come to earth, take on flesh and blood, knowing what He would have to suffer on our behalf. He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross,” reflected Pastor Johnson. There is no black church, white church, Asian church, native church.

There is one church, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all, in all, and living through all. Ephesians 4:5-6 He exhorted that Tabor students are the hope of the church. “Your generation can make the necessary changes, so that people will once again equate Christianity with love and that the church of Jesus will be one, no matter what race, color or age,” shared Johnson. His hope is that this generation will bring about changes and stand for justice, dignity and equality in America. Jay Johnson is pastor of the Zion Brethren in Christ Church in Abilene, Kan.

The inaugural Tabor College

Arts Hall of Fame Saturday, August 29, 2020 Shari Flaming Center for the Arts – Tabor College – Hillsboro, KS Induction Ceremony (open to the public) – 7:00 pm, Richert Auditorium Inaugural class: A. R. Ebel, Visual Arts • Jack Braun, Theatre • Carl Gerbrandt, Opera/Voice Jonah Kliewer, Choral/Voice • Lonn Richards, Band Herbert C. Richert, Choral • Paul Wohlgemuth, Choral Malinda Nikkel, Theatre

Photo courtesy Doug Miller

Tabor Bible professor Doug Miller is inviting Tabor students and other interested persons in January 2021 to visit the land of Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus, the disciples and early Christians. Additional locations include Mt. Nebo, where Moses gazed into the Promised Land; and other sights in Jordan, including ancient and dramatic Petra; Bethlehem and Jerusalem, which will serve as a base for most of the trip; and parts south (Bethlehem), east (the Mediterranean Sea, Joppa), and north (Nazareth, Sea of Galilee and Dan). “I am extremely excited about visiting these wonderful places again,” said Miller, who has led similar trips six times previously. The trip has four primary goals that intertwine daily on the threeweek trip: (1) understanding the Bible in its context, (2) learning about the three major religions of the area (Judaism, Islam, Eastern Christianity), (3) understanding the IsraeliPalestinian conflict, and (4) times for worship, reflection and prayer. “We will have personal contact and conversation with a variety of local people,” added Miller, who particularly noted Palestinian Christians as a neglected minority. Nonstudents are welcomed, and the trip still has room for a few more. For further information, contact Douglas Miller, Doug Miller DougM@tabor.edu.

Photo courtesy Doug Miller

Prof. Doug Miller to lead trip to Holy Land January 2021

Tabor Theatre presents Adam, Eve and Twain Tabor College Theatre prepared two plays during the busy spring semester. The first play, “Mark Twain’s The Dairies of Adam and Eve,” took the stage nightly, March 10-12, in the Prieb Harder Black Box Theatre within the Shari Flaming Center for the Arts. Lauren Carlton, director of Theatre at Tabor, directed the Mark Twain show. “The reason the ‘Mark Twain’ play has a terribly long title is because it wasn’t originally a play,” Carlton said. “I adapted a series of essays that were published in Harper’s Bazaar back in the early days of the 20th century.

I always tell people that Mark Twain’s Adam and Eve is less about the biblical Adam and Eve than it is about Twain’s own experiences and his perceived differences of the sexes.” The play itself has two parts. “The first part plays in the Garden of Eden; we meet Eve, who is very loquacious and precious precocious,” Carlton said. “She is fascinated by the world she lives in and wants to know why everything works the way it does. She’s really not satisfied with the response ‘just because.’ We see her constantly trying to figure out her world, and subsequently trying to figure out Adam.” She added, “It’s a very funny play, considering it’s by America’s great humorist. His style of language is very pleasant throughout the piece. It’s a very intimate story. “ The cast involved four student actors: sophomore Nathan Kemling as Adam and junior Madie Hill as Eve. Their understudies were freshmen Zac Wyse and Betsy George. There also was a wolf in the play, with a guest appearance by an adoptable dog courtesy of Caring Hands Humane Society in Newton. “The wolf was played by one of their adoptable dogs,” Carlton said. “This partnership originated from Tabor’s societal challenge initiative this year. We encouraged audience members to come with puppy food or kitten food.” Carlton said a small cast is able to analyze the text in greater detail as they get ready for the show. “It’s a deceptively challenging piece in that it is very comedic, but it does grapple with larger topics, such as marriage and family relations and general gendered stereotypes.”

Tabor Project SEARCH interns achieve success

Photo courtesy Project SEARCH

Tabor College Project SEARCH seeks to raise awareness about the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities. Inclusion strengthens communities and

Project SEARCH graduates left to right: Jacob Kanive, Kyler Klaassen, Rylee Ankenman, Heidi Lee-Ryder.

makes for a more diverse community. The program is nearing the end to a successful second year at Tabor College. Two interns have been employed by the college. Kyler Claassen, from Hesston, Kan., recently accepted a job with Tabor College in the Information Technology Department that began in February. “While Kyler was a Project SEARCH intern, he participated in two internships,” said Robert Haude, Tabor College Project SEARCH coordinator. Both were within the Information Technology department. “Kyler grew as a leader while an intern with Project SEARCH. In his role, Kyler did an outstanding job developing customer service.” Jacob Kanive is from Marion, Kan. He accepted a position in the Tabor College Cafeteria. Jacob’s first internship experience with Project SEARCH was in the campus cafeteria. “Jacob’s determination to work hard paid dividends as he was hired to work with the cafeteria staff beginning in February,” Haude said. “As an intern, Jacob excelled in developing his employability skills, which enabled him to secure a quality job.” Tabor College Project SEARCH is a partnership between the college and the Marion County Special Education Cooperative. The two organizations participate in an advisory committee that meets on campus monthly and includes area experts in special education and job placement.

Jay Day is an exciting 24-hour event for alumni and friends to engage with Tabor by sharing stories, prayers and support.

Jay Day of Giving October 1, 2020

We need you to make a difference: • Because people like you give • Because students matter • Because we want to make a difference in their lives. Partner with us this Fall! For more information call 620-947-3121 xt 1709 www.tabor.edu/jayday

New organization emerges for students of color A new student organization has emerged on the Tabor College campus this spring, with a goal of developing stronger relationships among students of color and non-white backgrounds. Students have embraced the name, Students of Color Alliance (SOCA). “Multiple meetings have taken place since May 2019 that have been encouraged and supported by the administration,” said Emir Ruiz Esparza, Tabor’s dean of student life. “The time spent in dialogue and working with this group has resulted in the organization’s mission statement.” SOCA’s mission statement targets the Tabor College campus community. “We plan on educating the masses around Tabor and telling them about the issues that students of color face in America, and specifically on this campus,” said junior Kolby Bunch-Dennis from Dallas Texas, who was selected to be the first president of the organization. Also selected were Lanaisha Johnson, a freshman from Salina, Kan., as vice president; Marcus Miller, a freshman from Bakersfield, Calif., as treasurer; and Joseph Tii, a

the group finally came together. Conversations and meetings have been held to determine what can be done to help provide support.” SOCA serves a different purpose than the Multicultural Student Union, an organization that over the years has addressed aspects of diversity on campus. “MSU is open to all students interested in their rich cultural heritage through food, art, festivals and cultural traditions, as well as celebrating and learning about the other cultures represented within the campus community,” Esparza said. So MSU is wider in its mission and targets the whole campus to celebrate and educate people about different cultures. “While MSU works more broadly, SOCA focuses on issues of American culture, with the goal of providing a safe place for students of color to participate in conversations about race,” Esparza said. Bunch-Dennis affirms SOCA’s focus. “We weren’t trying to separate from students of different color,” he said. “We take Caucasians seriously. We want students of color to know they have a voice on campus now. They shouldn’t be afraid to talk about their discomfort, or any tension they feel. SOCA would like to build a bridge of communication between Caucasians and minority students.” One campus issue, for example, is the weekly Chapel environment. Bunch-Dennis said he would like to see Chapel reflect a broader array of worship preferences of students of color. “We’re not out to make Caucasian students feel unwelcomed or disrespected, or feel like not coming to events we will be holding,” Marcus Miller said. “We just want students of color to know that they don’t have to feel uncomfortable – like they don’t have a voice. We’re here to make this change.” According to the Fall 2019 Tabor Fact Book, the Tabor student body of 579 students is 38 percent non-white. “The organization is about being a safe haven for students of color at Tabor, for (students of color) to have a place to come and talk with others, where they’re going to be understood,” Esparza said. Miller said SOCA held an informational meeting prior to spring break, and the organization’s leadership focused on students’ comfort level on campus and the types of activities on campus. They also discussed how they could The student leaders of SOCA are (from left) Lanaisha Johnson, vice president; Joseph start making an impact. Esparza underscores the role SOCA can play in buildTii, secretary; Marcus Miller, treasurer; and Kolby Bunch-Dennis, president. ing bridges at Tabor. “SOCA is committed to building bridges of underjunior from Round Rock, Texas, as secretary. Esparza serves as adviser. standing among all Tabor students in such areas of valuing differences, The seed for SOCA was planted a year ago following an incident in understanding the racial issues of our American culture, to promote a the cafeteria. climate of tolerance and hospitality on campus, and to have deliberate “We felt it was time to do something about it,” Bunch-Dennis said of conversations about social and cultural awareness that leads to embracing the incident. “We met multiple times. Actually, over this year’s Interterm, people from ethnically diverse backgrounds.”

Tabor’s Nick Lee finds a hoops home in Spain Sometimes following your dreams takes you to places you never imagined, and meeting people you never thought about before. Nick Lee, a 2019 Tabor graduate and men’s basketball player, has signed to play professional basketball for the Lujisa Guadalajara Basket, located about 35 miles from Madrid, the capital of Spain. It was a long journey for Lee, but not too difficult once he arrived overseas. He first traveled to Spain to work out with Europe Basketball Academy, which helped him prepare for the international game. When the program was finished, Lee was assigned an agent. Once his agent found him a team, tryouts consisted of drills, running through some plays and a scrimmage. The team signed Lee with the hope he can help them make a push for the playoffs. Lee, a sharp-shooting guard, scored 15 points, all of them coming from behind the 3-point line. “I wish we could have gotten the win, but I thought I played well and fit in with the team good for my first game,” Lee said. Not a bad showing, considering he had only two days of practice with the team and was trying to learn plays in Spanish, which Lee does not speak. Lee said the biggest difference between the American and International games, there is no isolation ball in Spain. “It’s strictly fundamental here. A lot of coming off screens, always moving and cutting, never standing still,” Lee said. Lee is the only American on the squad, with a lot of guys from Spain, one from France and a native of Venezuela. “I am the youngest on the

team, so it’s nice having some older guys to get me through the ins and outs of basketball out here.” Lee compared his transition to Spain with his transition from Alabama to Kansas. “When I went from Alabama to Kansas I didn’t know anyone and was pretty much on my own, just like it is here. The people are really nice – they treat me like a celebrity.” Lee said he is thankful for his time at Tabor. The struggles and lessons while at Tabor helped shape him into who he is today. “Tabor wasn’t the easiest at times for me,” Lee said. “I was faced with a lot of adversity, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. Tabor taught me how to grind it out in the face of adversity, making me mentally and physically stronger. I enjoy the man I am becoming and I feel like if I hadn’t come to Tabor, I wouldn’t be as prepared as I am now. “My experience brought me some amazing lifelong friends who stuck by my side through everything,” Lee said. “My experience at Tabor also helped me spiritually. It taught me to trust God with everything and to embrace my process and not shy away from it.” Tabor College head coach Micah Ratzlaff said: “I am really proud of Nick Lee signing an overseas contract. His love for the game is evident from his work ethic and his drive to keep playing basketball after college. If you need a shooter, Nick is your guy. He is also very smart and will be a great addition to the team. I am happy for Nick and also happy for Tabor College. Nick will represent Tabor College well and we wish him the best of luck.” After his recent season, which ran from September to May, Lee hopes to renegotiate his contract and re-sign with the team. He will return to the States after the season to work out and stay in shape. He hopes to help his team in that playoff push they signed him for. –by David Ediger, Associate Director of Athletic Communications

SAVE THE DATE Come home for Tabor family, friends & fun

HOMECOMING 2020

OCTOBER 9-11

tabor.edu/homecoming

FRIDAY, OCT. 9 • Golf Classic/Dinner & Awards/Theatre

SATURDAY, OCT. 10 • Campus Activities • Football Game • Theatre • Reunions

SUNDAY, OCT. 11 • Commencement

Mike MacNeill takes the reigns of Tabor volleyball Tabor College athletic director Martin Ziesemer has announced that Mike MacNeill accepted the position of head volleyball coach for the Bluejays. MacNeill is a graduate of California Baptist University and has a master’s degree in Education. MacNeill was a standout player on the CBU men’s volleyball team, and led CBU to two NAIA Championships. Most recently, MacNeill was the volleyball coach at Wiley College in Marshall, Texas, for three years. He led the team to a conference championship and the NAIA National Tournament. MacNeill said he was initially attracted to coach at Tabor because of its Christ-centered athletic and academic environment. “I accepted this position at Tabor College because of our shared vision to build a championship-caliber program with an emphasis on character development

in a Christ-centered environment, and a clear purpose to enhance the overall educational experience of the student-athletes while providing a strong desire to do what is necessary to win,” MacNeill said. “Integrating faith into the volleyball program will come in many forms. We will make a habit of praying before or after practice sessions, team devotionals on a consistent basis and providing opportunities for our student-athletes to share their personal testimony.” Ziesemer said, “We are pleased to have Mike join our coaching staff as the volleyball coach. He brings leadership, spiritual leadership, knowledge of the game and experience in leading a winning program. We are confident in his ability to provide a great volleyball experience for the Bluejays.” The MacNeill family – Mike, wife Holly and their two children – have moved to Hillsboro.

COVID-19 nixes Hoyt’s coaching program Terran Hoyt, senior basketball guard for Tabor College, was ecstatic when she was selected to participate in the 18th annual Women’s Basketball Coach Association “So You Want to Be a Coach” program. Presented in partnership with WeCOACH, the WBCA’s “So You Want to Be a Coach” program assists female collegiate basketball players who are interested in pursuing a career as a women’s basketball coach. The prestigious program offers participants professional development and career advancement through education, skills enhancement, networking and exposure opportunities. The program also increases awareness regarding the availability of talented female basketball players who want to coach. “I am very thankful for the coaches who inspired me to apply for this program and pursue this profession,” Terran said. “I am really honored to represent Tabor and very excited to network with people who care about the same things I do.” The previous year, only 60 student-athletes were selected from NCAA and NAIA divisions, including seven students from NAIA institutions. Terran’s interest in coaching can be traced to her mother, Shelly Hoyt, who is a legendary Kansas high school basketball coach. She has won more than 500 games as a head coach, including 11 sub-state championships and four state titles. “It’s a big honor for Terran to be selected into this program,” Shelly said. “There are so many elite athletes who want to go into the field of 20

coaching. She is very blessed to receive this opportunity. Her father (Scott) and I are very proud of her.” Terran said: “The older I’ve gotten, the more I have appreciated being a coach’s kid, and the values my mom instilled through the sport of basketball. My mom has been a tremendous role model for me in life and in coaching. I want to impact lives through basketball in the same way I have seen her impact so many players.” Coaching basketball runs thick in the Hoyt family. Terran’s sister, Jacie, is the head women’s basketball coach at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and has coached at Kansas State University and the University of Nevada. Terran’s coach at Tabor, Shawn Reed, agrees that coaching would be a great profession for his senior guard. “She is already a coach on the floor for us,” Reed said. “She sees the big picture, understands the game and is a great communicator. Couple those attributes with her competitive spirit and a willingness to mentor others and you have the foundational characteristics necessary to be a great coach.” Terran was anticipating her once-in-a-lifetime opportunity when the COVID-19 pandemic turned her excitement into a March madness of the disappointing kind. “The original convention was going to be at the (NCAA) Final Four,” Terran said. “Since the tournament has been canceled, the convention has also been canceled. But organizers have been working on digital resources for us, and they’re doing a great job of sending out our resumes.” Terran was disappointed about the decision to cancel the program, “But I understand the concerns and everything. Selfishly, I’m disappointed that I won’t get that experience.” Despite her disappointment, Terran has embraced a positive perspective about the changes of plans. “It’s still exciting to be selected,” she said. “I’ll always be part of that graduating class, but it’s disappointing that I won’t get that networking experience.

Winter Sports Roundup Head coach Micah Ratzlaff men’s team opened the 2019-2020 season with back-toback non-conference victories versus Weber International and Haskell Indian Nations University. Then the tide turned. The Bluejays slipped into a 17-game winless streak in the KCAC that ended with a 66-61 victory against Bethel College in mid-February. Tabor won three of their final eight games for a 4-20 record within the conference and a 6-21 mark overall. The Bluejays improved a lot in the second round of conference play, winning three of their last six games and two of their last three. A highlight of the season was the impact of Tyler Zinn, a 6-1 senior guard from Olathe, Kan. Zinn scored 45 points in the final game of his Tabor career, and led his team to an 89-88 win over Bethany. Zinn was selected to the All-Conference Third Team. Zinn was a dominate force during his one year in a Tabor College uniform, earning Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference Player-of-theWeek honors on four occasions.

Women’s Basketball A young Tabor College women’s basketball team took to the floor for Head Coach Shawn Reed this winter. His limited experience squad lost three of their first four non-conference games for a 1-3 start. But Reed has a way to build a team. Stepping into the KCAC schedule, the Bluejays were quickly maturing. Tabor pieced together a 17-11 final record in conference play and an opportunity to capture another berth in the KCAC Tournament. But Avila University ended Tabor’s tournament run with a 55-50 win over the Bluejays. The team finished its season by landing three players on the KCAC All-Conference teams. Sophomore Zoe Shieldnight, from Gore, Okla., was named to the all-conference second team, and Kyli Burns, a senior from Valley Center, and Ashtyn Wiebe, a sophomore from Elbing, both earned honorablemention honors. Wiebe was also named to the all-defensive team

Swimming Midland University in Fremont, Neb., hosted the inaugural KCAC Swimming & Diving Championship Feb. 6-8. The Tabor men finished in fifth-place as a team, and the Tabor women finished in sixth place. “Overall, I think this was a very successful conference championship,”

said coach Nathan Duell. “It was really important for these swimmers to have this kind of experience. It will help the younger swimmers moving forward and it is a great memory for the seniors moving on.” The Bluejay men qualified four relays, and Jacob Rudolph qualified in the 50-free for the NAIA championships in Knoxville, Tenn., March 4-7. On the final day of the meet, Tabor saw three individuals qualify for the championship heat in the finals: Michal Parris, the women’s 200 back; Darian Morgan in the men’s 200 back in school-record time; and Jonathan Austin in the men’s 200 butterfly.

Indoor Track & Field Men’s Team The Tabor College men made a good showing at the KCAC meet in Wichita, bringing home fifth place in the team standings. But when it comes to displaying character, the Bluejays brought home the “KCAC Team of Character Award” for men’s indoor track. Head Coach Dave Kroeker was honored that his team was chosen, given what it stands for. “I am pleased that it represents something that should be a part of all team and all individual sports,” Kroeker said. “How teams respond to competition, how they respond to disappointment, how they respond to success. Sport in general can be a very good place to develop character, but it by itself doesn’t do that.” Toby Penner placed second-in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:00.36. Garrett Kinsey finished fourth in the one-mile run in 4:45.47. Freshman Pierce Klaassen finished tenth with a time of 4:51.71, the fourthbest time among KCAC schools. The men’s team placed third among KCAC schools.

Indoor Track & Field Women’s Team Tabor collected four first-place finishes among KCAC competitors. Kaileigh Dill continued to lead Tabor women in the field events. She placed second in the weight throw with a toss of 56-00.50. Dill also earned a third-place overall finish in the shot put with a throw of 42-08.75. Sarah Bird rounded out the first-place finishers among the KCAC teams in the field events, finishing ninth in the long jump with a best mark of 16-03.75. Abigail Berggren was the lone firstplace KCAC competitor for the Bluejays on the track. She placed fourth in the 5,000-meter run with a time of 20:40.59.

Photo courtesy Tabor Yearbook

Men’s Basketball

Alumni News Marriages

Deaths

Aaron Gallaway (g’08) and Kayla Tonne (g’11), married in Hillsboro, Kan., on Oct. 12, 2019

Roger Janzen (g’64), age 78, of rural Independence, Kansas, entered his eternal home and into the presence of his Lord and Savior on May 1, 2020. After graduating from Oklahoma Bible Academy in 1960, he attended Tabor College, graduating in 1964. Married life with Edna began in Enid, Oklahoma, where Roger taught music education at Hunter and Jet while farming in the summers. He also taught music in Sedan, Kansas, and later moved to Independence where he began work with his dad at Janzen Grain & Feed, which led to a long career in agriculture, culminating with Roger D. Janzen Farm, LLC. Roger continued to pursue his love for music by leading music and worship and playing the trumpet. He shared his life with others and his joy for the Lord was always present and evident as co-workers became like family.

Births/Adoptions Joshua (g’12) and Jessica Elliot, Des Plaines, Ill., a girl, Alice Chesed, May 4, 2020 Michael (g’07) and Amanda Hagen, Hillsboro, Kan., a boy, Colton Allen, April 28, 2020

Gallaway/Tonne

Taylor (g’14) and Andrea Loewen, Gardner, Kan., a girl, Taelyn Marie, April 23, 2020 Ryan (g’14) and Megan Nelson, Hillsboro, Kan., a girl, Sawyer Avery, March 26, 2020 Emily Railsback (g’10) and Jeremy Quinn, Chicago, Ill., a girl, Chlöe Roxana Suzume, March 25, 2020

Felix Hamm

Derek (f) and Katherine (Goering g’09) Hamm, Matfield Green, Kan., a boy, Felix Lanoy, March 9, 2020 Daniel (g’09) and Heidi (Glanzer g’10) Carlson, Topeka, Kan., a girl, Collins Lynn, Feb. 28, 2020 Will (g’08) and Jesica (Brucks g’08) Enger, Brady, Texas, a boy, Jack Barrett, Feb. 26, 2020

Vida Bartel

Robert Glanzer

Roger Janzen

Arlene Derksen

Mary Ann Harms

Lorian McAllister

Harold Franz

Gordon Hiebert

Johnny Voth

Dave Gerbrandt

LaVina Janzen

Randall Whitcomb

Randall Whitcomb (g’76), age 65, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away at his home on April 19, 2020, surrounded by his family. Randy attended Tabor College where he met the love of his life, Rita Kreutziger, and they were married in 1975. He graduated with honors in 1981 from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and in 1985 became a Medical Staff Fellow of Endocrinology at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Following this fellowship, he joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School and became an attending physician at Massachusetts General Hospital. Randy spent the remainder of his career in various pharmaceutical development roles, where he was able to use his training and passion for helping others. Gordon Hiebert (fs’70), age 69, of Hillsboro, Kansas, passed away on April 18, 2020 at his home. Gordon attended Ebenfeld Country School and Hillsboro schools before attending Tabor College for two years. After working in retail clothing in Wichita for one year, he returned to Hillsboro, working at Hillsboro Industries for a brief time welding before starting his own farming and cattle operation. In 1992, Gordon was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and subsequently, after 10 years relinquished farming and started his own business, Western Pleasure, creating western and southwestern art pieces meticulously out of metal, leather and rock. Parkinson’s took away many physical activities but couldn’t take away his faith in God as he spent many hours reading his Bible and underlining his favorite verses. Robert Glanzer (g’67), age 74, of Huron, South Dakota, passed away on April 3, 2020 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Bob finished high school at James Valley Christian School in 1963 and graduated from Tabor College in 1967 with a business degree and a physical education minor. He taught and coached for seven years and then moved to Huron to be the manager of the South Dakota State Fair before starting his banking career in 1979. Bob retired from banking in 2012 and was elected to the South Dakota State House of Representatives in 2017. He held a deep love of American history, a love of rodeo, horses, the outdoors and the people of South Dakota. His biggest love was giving to his Lord and Savior, his wife, Penny, and his family. Dave Gerbrandt (g’64), age 78, of Clinton, Oklahoma, passed away Feb. 29, 2020. Pastor Gerbrandt was raised in Indianola, Oklahoma, and graduated from Corn Bible Academy in 1959. He continued his education at Tabor College and on June 20, 1961, married Marilyn Goosen in Bethany, Oklahoma. Following a stint as a teacher, he started a construction business in the Enid,

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Oklahoma, area where he built approximately 40 homes. He was called to preach in 1980 and served Mennonite Brethren churches in Amarillo, Texas; Shafter, California, and Clinton, Oklahoma, retiring in 2011 from full-time ministry.

Nov. 30, 2019. She married Vernon Bartel on Oct. 21, 1955, and they remained life companions for 59 years. Vida worked at Parkside Homes for 27 years and was active in many service opportunities in the church and the community throughout her life.

Craig Dickinson (g’92), age 50, of Newton, Kan., passed away unexpectedly Feb. 2, 2020. Craig married Noelle Dick on April 23, 1994 in Newton. After years of teaching at the elementary level, Craig earned his Master of Divinity from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2011. He has been a teacher, coach, counselor and friend to many throughout the years.

Arlene Helen (Gerdes g’54) Derksen, age 91, Mountain Lake, Minnesota, died on Nov. 17, 2019, at Pleasant View Good Samaritan Center-St. James. She began her nurse’s training at Mounds Midway School of Nursing in St. Paul, completing her nursing degree in 1952 and graduating from Tabor College in 1954. She was then ordained and commissioned by the Mennonite Brethren Mission and was assigned to missionary service in what was then the Belgian Congo. After 26 years in the Congo, she returned to Minnesota where she met and married Clarence Derksen in 1981. Both were actively involved in numerous Christian ministries.

Harold Franz (g’54), age 87, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away Feb. 2, 2020. He was married to Eleanor on Sept. 2, 1954, in Mountain Lake, Minnesota, where they lived and served for 28 years. Besides the insurance business, Harold took time to serve on numerous boards, including the Mountain Lake Christian Day School and Tabor College board of directors. In 1984, Harold and Eleanor helped start a new church in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and in 1997 moved to Wichita, Kansas, where they enjoyed reconnecting with many of their Tabor and Kansas friends and relatives. LaVina (Reimer (fs’40) Janzen, age 98, of Enid, Oklahoma, passed away Jan. 23, 2020. She married A.W. Janzen on Jan. 14, 1944, in Buhler, Kansas, and was an active member of the Enid MB Church. LaVina and A.W. were a deacon couple and she was a Sunday School teacher. She also enjoyed ladies groups, cooking, gardening, fishing and watching all sports. Johnny Voth (fs’51), age 87, of Kremlin, Oklahoma, passed away on Jan. 17, 2020. He married Mary Ann Sherley on Dec. 27, 1957, and they recently celebrated their 62nd anniversary. Johnny was a wheat and cattle farmer and a lifetime resident of Kremlin. Margot (Stauffer, g’68) Wiebe, age 89, of Dallas, Texas, died on Jan. 16, 2020. Margot will always be cherished as a loving mother, wife and teacher. As a German language teacher, she was dedicated to her students, and she led many of them on trips to Germany over the summers. Dale Suderman (g’65), age 75, of Hillsboro, Kansas died Jan. 5, 2020. After graduating from Tabor College, he attended Wichita University for one year and then knowing he would be drafted volunteered for the U.S. Army. On his return to the states he completed a master’s degree in theology at AMBS while managing the seminary bookstore. Dale served for four years with the Voluntary Service in Newton, Kansas, as associate director and then moved to Chicago where he was the owner and operator of a Logos bookstore. He ended his professional career as a counselor at the Salvation Army Harbor Life facility. Dale was an avid reader and an award-winning columnist reflecting on life in urban Chicago. William Wiest, (g’55), of Portland, Oregon, passed away on Dec. 19, 2019. Bill and Thelma Bartel were married the summer after he graduated from Tabor College and moved to Lawrence, Kansas where he attended the University of Kansas and received his master’s degree in psychology in 1957. They then moved to Berkeley, California, where he earned his doctorate in psychology in 1961. Following that, Bill was offered a job at Reed College, in Portland, Oregon, where he began his 34-year teaching career, retiring as professor emeritus in 1995. Edna (Mays g’64) Isaac, passed away on Dec. 16, 2019, at the age of 77 in her home in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She was married to Marvin Isaac on Dec. 29, 1964, and together they had two sons. Vida (Neufeld fs’55) Bartel, age 83, of Hillsboro, Kansas, died

Rev. Dr. Loring William McAllister, age 82, Afton, Minnesota, passed away Nov. 11, 2019. He was surrounded by loved ones enjoying his company, reminiscing and singing his favorite hymns. Rev. Loring is survived by his wife, Lucy Jean Remple McAllister, granddaughter of H.W. Lohrenz, first president of Tabor College. Mary Ann (Wall fs’55) Harms, age 85, New Wilmington, Penn., wife of former Professor of Biology Dr. Clarence Harms, passed away Nov. 3, 2019. Mary Ann, who began her college studies at Tabor College in the 1950s, returned to college in the 1970s. She graduated with honors from Westminster College in 1979. Her career included teaching elementary school, giving violin lessons, performing with the Westminster College Orchestra and the Greenville Symphony Orchestra and establishing her home-based business, Clay Creations by Mary Ann. She was active within her church and the New Wilmington community.

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Herbert “Herb” Schmidt (g’51), age 89, of Winston Salem, North Carolina, went to be with his Savior on Aug. 1, 2019. He received his master’s degree from University of Denver, 1961, and attended classes at the Denver Seminary. Herb retired from Englewood Public Schools in 1984. He then taught at Ivory Coast Academy in West Africa for several years. After returning the states they settled in the Winston Salem area where Herb continued to teach part time in public and Christian schools. Herb was known for his in-depth Bible teaching, being fully dedicated to the Lord, knowing the Lord Jesus provided him eternal life and salvation from sin through His death on the cross. He was married to Esther (Vogt) for 69 years.

Alumni News – 1970s Steve Wilkens (g’77), PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary, professor of philosophy and ethics at Azusa Pacific University, has written a book “What’s So Funny About God? A Theological Look At Humor.” In his book, Wilkens launches an exploration of the connections between humor and many of the central topics of Christian theology. He argues that viewing Scripture and theology through the lens of humor brings fresh insight to our understanding of the gospel, helps us avoid the pitfalls of both naturalism and gnosticism, and facilitates a humble, honest and appealing approach to faith. Wilkens turns this lens on the paradoxes of human nature, the Christian calendar, church life and new readings of well-known biblical texts. His other books include Hidden Worldviews, Christianity and Western Thought, and Beyond Bumper Sticker Ethics. Wilkens will address the Tabor College 2020 graduating class at commencement on October 11.

Steve Wilkens

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TABOR COLLEGE INVITES YOU TO CELEBRATE THE

Tabor College One hundred tenth

Commencement Sunday, October 11, 2020 SYMPHONIC BAND CONCERT 9:30 A.M. COMMENCEMENT EXERCISES 10:00 A.M.