BALDWIN HIGH SCHOOL CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2025 WITH HONORS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND BRIGHT FUTURES
Photography by Frank Perez
Under sunny skies and a gym filled with proud families, Baldwin High School held its 138th Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 17, 2025. A total of 110 students fulfilled the graduation requirements set by USD 348 and were formally awarded their diplomas.
The afternoon began with the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” as the Class of 2025 processed into the ceremony, led by student leaders Camden Cox and Ali Peterson. Claire Baker, Student Body President, addressed her peers with reflections and encouragement for the next chapter of life. Guest speaker
Andreas Brandenberger offered words of wisdom, celebrating the resilience and potential of this year’s graduates.
Musical performances added a heartfelt touch to the day, including a moving rendition of “Rivers and Roads” by the Baldwin High School Concert Choir.
Students were honored not only for academic achievement but also for leadership, service, and character. Graduates like Isaac Taylor, Saylor Currie, Emily Howarter, and Adalyn Madl earned multiple scholarships and recognitions, reflecting their deep involvement and dedication during their high school years. Scholarships were awarded by organizations such as the Baldwin Education Association, Baldwin Lions
Club, PEO, Baldwin Golf Association, and the Baldwin City Rotary Club.
Notable recognitions included:
• Governor’s Award: Dylan Miller and Emily Howarter
• National Merit Scholar: Dylan Miller
• BHS Student Council Scholarships: Claire Baker and Adalyn Madl
• Dale Dennis Excellence in Education Award: Saylor Currie
• Baker University’s Wilma & Wilson
Counts Memorial Scholarships: Lauren Berg and Niella New
• American Legion Citizenship Awards: Isaac Taylor and Emma Rolland
As for their futures, the Class of 2025
is headed in many directions. Some are continuing their education at institutions like Kansas State University, University of Kansas, Baker University, and UMKC. Others are entering technical programs, joining the military, or going straight into the workforce. A few graduates, like Justice McWilliams and Matthew Orender, are choosing to serve our country in the Navy and Marine Corps.
This year’s ceremony was a reflection of Baldwin’s values—academic excellence, community support, and strong character. The Class of 2025 leaves behind a legacy of involvement, resilience, and Bulldog pride.
Congratulations to all Baldwin High School graduates!
COLOR OUR WORLD WITH BOOKS: BALDWIN CITY LIBRARY’S SUMMER READING PROGRAM LAUNCHES WITH A PARTY
The Baldwin City Library is inviting readers of all ages to turn the page on summer boredom and open a whole new chapter of fun, imagination, and learning. The 2025 Summer Reading Program, themed “Color Our World With Books,” kicks off with a celebration on Friday, May 24, and runs through July 3.
The kickoff event promises an afternoon of joy and creativity for kids and families alike. Attendees can:
• Enjoy hot dogs grilled by Jeff Flory, owner of Baldwin Power Wash
• Adopt a Beanie Baby stuffie donated by Annette Jardon
• Let Dr. Batchelder give your new stuffie a play checkup
• Decorate a cardboard house for your new stuffed friend
• Get your face painted by artist Meg Cundiff and Jenni Fish from The Maple
• Take home a custom cartoon portrait by local cartoonist Gerard Arantowicz
And that’s just the beginning. Once registered, participants can track their reading, earn prizes, and attend events throughout the summer.
Why Join the Summer Reading Program?
1. It helps prevent “summer slide.” Kids who don’t read during the summer can lose up to two months of reading progress, according to the National Summer Learning Association. Summer reading keeps their minds active and ready for fall.
2. It builds a love for books.
Whether kids are just learning to read or are diving into chapter books, summer reading helps create positive associations with literacy.
3. There are prizes!
Readers can track their books and enter to win prizes throughout the program—because who doesn’t love a little reward for doing something fun?
4. It’s for all ages.
With activities and challenges designed for kids, teens, and even adults, this program truly brings the whole community together.
5. It’s free and fun.
All of the library’s Summer Reading Program activities are free and open to the public. It’s a perfect way to stay
entertained and inspired all summer long.
As the library puts it:
“Books are the brushes, imagination is the canvas—color our world with books.”
To sign up, stop by the kickoff party on May 24 or visit the Baldwin City Library anytime through July 3. Let’s make this summer a masterpiece, one story at a time.
COMMUNITY
RODROCK CHIROPRACTIC REBRANDS AS AMPLIFY LIFE CENTER: A BOLD STEP TOWARD WHOLE-LIFE WELLNESS
A familiar name in Baldwin City is stepping into a bold new chapter. Rodrock Chiropractic, a trusted source of chiropractic care in the community, has officially rebranded as Amplify Life Center—a move that reflects a significant evolution in the clinic’s mission, philosophy, and future offerings.
The decision to rebrand was sparked by more than just a name change. “This is a strategic shift from niche chiropractic care to holistic life optimization,” the team shared. “We wanted a name that would reflect the energy, growth, and broader outcomes we’re working toward—not just physical health, but full-spectrum vitality and purpose.”
The name “Amplify” was carefully chosen to represent that mission. “It’s about helping individuals unlock resilience and expansion in all areas of life—not just reducing symptoms,” said the team. “We don’t just want people to feel better; we want them to live better, with intention and community.”
What’s Changing—and What’s Not
While chiropractic care will remain at the center of their services, Amplify Life Center is expanding its offerings to reflect a whole-body, root-cause approach to health. New programs include:
Neuropathy treatment
Disc and spine therapy
(Future) Advanced knee care protocols
Regenerative medicine solutions
Bioidentical hormone therapy
These services are part of a broader vision to empower patients beyond traditional care models. “Many wellness clinics focus on dependency. We focus on autonomy. We don’t just adjust spines—we support nervous system function, mindset, and habits that promote long-term growth,” they explained.
Patients can also expect to see new faces as the team grows. Dr. Adam Madl joins the clinic, bringing both deep expertise and a shared passion for Amplify’s mission.
Despite the evolution, the clinic reassures patients that its pricing model and foundational care approach will remain consistent. “Our patients are the heart of this transformation. Everything we’re doing is to expand what’s possible for them.”
A Movement, Not Just a Clinic
Amplify Life Center is positioning itself not just as a healthcare provider but as a community hub for personal development and healing. With plans for deeper educational outreach, wellness programming, and public events, the clinic hopes to inspire a cultural shift in how people view
their health.
“We’re building a space that activates potential,” the team said. “Amplify Life Center isn’t about fixing what’s wrong—it’s about uncovering what’s right and growing from there.”
Gratitude to the Roots
To the longtime patients who’ve supported the clinic as Rodrock Chiropractic, the message is simple: thank you. “You are the roots of this movement,” said the team. “This rebrand is not a departure from our past—it’s a natural evolution of the commitment we’ve always made to you.”
What’s Next
The full transition to Amplify Life Center is expected to be complete by mid-summer, with a community celebration in the works to mark the occasion. Details will be announced soon.
In the meantime, curiosity and excitement from the community continue to grow. “The response has been full of curiosity—and we welcome it,” said the team. “We’re here to amplify lives, and we’re just getting started.”
SUNDAY, MAY 25 @ 2 P.M. VINLAND CEMETERY, 748 E. 1750 RD. VINLAND, KS THE BALDWIN CITY AMERICAN LEGION WILL BE PRESENTING MILITARY HONORS AND COLOR GUARD.
LOCAL VETERAN HONOREE THIS YEAR WALTER “BUCKY” ROCKHOLD ALSO HONORING MARY GENSLER & TALITHA BAILEY FOR THEIR YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE CEMETERY AND VCA. EVERYONE IS WELCOME AND BRING A LAWN CHAIR!
BAKER UNIVERSITY WELCOMES DR. JODY FOURNIER AS 31ST PRESIDENT
Baker University is pleased to announce Dr. Jody Fournier as its 31st president. He officially begins his role on July 1, 2025, following a nationwide search led by NU Advisory Partners and the university’s search committee.
“Dr. Fournier’s dedication to higher education and his student-centered leadership make him a perfect fit for Baker,” said Brenda Stasiulis, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “We are excited to welcome him to the Baker community and look forward to the future under his guidance.”
Dr. Fournier brings over 25 years of experience in academic leadership, most recently serving as provost and vice president at Capital University in Columbus, Ohio. His background spans student affairs, enrollment management, strategic planning, and academic innovation. Under his leadership, Capital saw significant improvements in student retention, enrollment growth, and the launch of forwardthinking programs in business and health care.
“I’m honored to join Baker University,” said Dr. Fournier. “Baker’s strong legacy and commitment to student success create an incredible foundation. I look forward to building on that tradition while embracing new opportunities for innovation and growth.”
Dr. Fournier holds a Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology, as well as degrees in Psychology and Family Relations from The Ohio State University. His work has been recognized with numerous awards for teaching, advising, and community engagement.
He succeeds Mr. Hoot Gibson, who has served as acting president since October 2024.
OFFICIAL DEED INDEFINITELY PROTECTS WETLANDS SOLELY FOR EDUCATIONAL, RESEARCH, CONSERVATION PURPOSES
The recently secured covenant ensures that the Baker University Wetlands cannot be sold and will remain permanently protected from future development.
Baker University has finalized a restricted deed covenant with the Douglas County Register of Deeds that permanently protects the Baker University Wetlands exclusively for educational, research, and conservation purposes. The deed prohibits future development on the nearly 1,000 acres of highly biodiverse upland and riparian habitat that includes over 600 acres of wetlands just south of Lawrence, Kansas.
Following constructive concerns last year in public discussions about the potential sale and development of parts of the Baker University Wetlands, this formalized, protective covenant is a key milestone for Baker University to ensure that the wetlands are fully protected and future generations can benefit from the diverse habitat and exceptional environment.
“We are thankful for the extensive advocacy efforts from the community, our staff, and alumni who have been
extremely engaged and thoughtful through this public engagement process,” said Baker University President Hoot Gibson, who spearheaded the covenant. “We couldn’t be happier with this outcome, which demonstrates the importance of the wetlands to the community, landscape, and region.”
The Baker University Wetlands is an important ecological asset and extension of the Baldwin City campus community as an educational resource for Baker students and the community.
For decades, the Baker University Wetlands has been home to providing unparalleled experiences for faculty, staff, and students, as well as science labs, research projects, and recreational engagement with nature.
University & Local Community Resource
“We are thrilled that Baker University has taken proactive steps to protect the Baker University Wetlands in perpetuity,” said Baker University Wetlands Director Andrew Rutter. “The university is committed to education, conservation, and community engagement through our stewardship
of this incredible resource that is the wetlands. This is an important step demonstrating this amazing resource being available for generations to come.”
Dr. Roger Boyd, former director of the Baker University Wetlands and longtime biology professor at the university, has played an instrumental role for the past several decades, negotiating development and restoration projects involving the wetlands. Alongside President Gibson, Boyd has shepherded the process to ensure the deed was approved.
“I have been associated with the Baker University Wetlands since it was acquired by my father, Dr. Ivan L. Boyd, when I was a senior at Baker University. Later as a faculty member, hundreds of my biology students experienced the wetlands through activities in classes,” Boyd explained. “It is a valued area for students and the community alike to experience and enjoy the many trails and natural habitat in the area. The restrictive covenant that is attached to the deed will ensure the area is protected in its entirety from any future development that would detract from
the mission of education, research, and conservation.”
Last fall, Baker University Wetlands announced a conservation partnership with Ducks Unlimited and the Kansas Alliance for Wetlands and Streams (KAWS) to manage the wetlands and collaborate on the services and care that the area requires. More information and education surrounding the Baker University Wetlands will be available this summer. To stay connected and apprised of wetlands-related news, follow Baker University on YouTube.
About the Baker University Wetlands
One of the most diverse habitats in Kansas, the Baker University Wetlands encompasses 927 acres of rich, natural wildlife. Students, faculty, and nature lovers have identified 288 species of birds, 98 other vertebrate species, and 487 plant species at the Wetlands—and these counts grow with each adventure. Further, this exceptional environment gives students the unique opportunity for increased exploration and education about biological and ecological processes.
COMMUNITY VOICES
THE FIVE SENSES IN YOUR HOME VISUALIZE IT THEN EXPECT IT
I enjoy reading the various commencement addresses shared each year around this time. A gifted speaker often weaves elements into their message that resonate with different learning styles. This approach draws from educational psychology and learning theory, particularly the VARK model (Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, Kinesthetic), which acknowledges the diverse ways people absorb information and connect emotionally.
A similar technique can be used in decorating by appealing to the 5 senses. As a homekeeper, you can transform a space into a sanctuary by layering a sensory experience. Our senses respond to the deep, often unspoken need for belonging, safety, comfort, connection, and meaning.
Sight is the first impression and the most immediate perception when entering a space, setting a tone for your home. Soft, natural lighting can evoke warmth, or layered lamps or candles at night or on rainy days add a sense of coziness. An organized, uncluttered environment helps the mind feel at ease. Thoughtful color choices, earthy tones for calmness, or pops of color for energy, paired with meaningful artwork, plant elements, bring the space to life.
Sound shapes the mood beneath the silence and can transform the atmosphere. Gentle background music, perhaps instrumental or nature sounds, creates a peaceful vibe. A crackling fire (in a fireplace or patio pit) or the soft hum of a fan can also add comforting layers to the auditory environment. I love to wake up to the sound of morning birdsong, and at night, I listen to the natural lullaby of rain
noise to go to sleep by. A water element (outdoor fountain or tabletop version) is nice for background sound. Even quiet is texture like, inviting stillness which can add depth and dimension to a space.
Smell is the memory’s gatekeeper, deeply tied to remembrance and mood. Light, fresh, and inviting scents like vanilla, cinnamon, or wood can evoke comfort and relaxation. Scented candles, diffusers, or even cooking a favorite meal can weave a sensory thread through the space, enhancing its atmosphere. More than once, I have mentioned incorporating aromas of baking in the kitchen, or homemade potpourri simmering when friends and family gather. Use natural scents like lavender for calm, citrus for energy, and cinnamon for nostalgia. I tie a swag of eucalyptus and lavender (the purifier and the soother) on my showerhead for a refreshing natural lift. It’s luxurious to have fragrant flowers in a home.
Taste hints at hospitality, something not immediately associated with the home’s ambiance. A bowl of fruit, mints, candy pieces, made available for the taking, or a simply set table with placemats and a centerpiece invites comfort. Meals shared in a thoughtfully designed space deepen the sense of belonging.
Touch is the language of inclusion. Soft textures in furniture and fabrics, fluffy rugs, smooth linens, or plush towels connect us to our spaces. Temperature also plays a role: a warm blanket on a cool evening or a breeze through an open window can create a dynamic, engaging sensory experience. I open windows almost every day, if only for a brief period, to get the sweet smell of fresh air. Wood tends to convey warmth more than metal. Woven is more nurturing than plastic. Don’t overlook interactive objects like a tactile book, an ongoing puzzle, or an inviting game like checkers set up on a table, encouraging engagement, not just observation.
An unforgettable, mesmerizing setting comes to mind from when visiting a friend near Olympia, WA. Her home was located on Puget Sound waterfront, Mt. Rainier was in view, and there was a fireplace aglow. The mountain offered stillness and perspective, the shoreline brought rhythm and release, and the fire gave warmth and focus. Recreating that in Kansas lacks the mountain, but on a farm with a pond side firepit overlooking a prairie field, with its own vast, gentle grandeur, ranks right up there in sensory peace.
Keeping the senses in mind while decorating subtly, almost imperceptibly, adds to the home’s ambiance. Holistically accessing the senses cultivates peace, connection, and beauty, enhancing the feeling at home in every way.
Until next time, warmest regards. Cathenry.ch@gmail.com
P.S. Decorating to include the senses: taste, touch, smell, hear, and see.
Do you know the saying “What you see is what you get?” Well, that is the whole reasoning behind visualization. When we focus on something, it becomes clearer and clearer. First, we bring it into focus. Then we start to see the details of it. Then we zoom in on the details we like the most and voila! The big picture begins to make sense and take shape.
Visualizing gives us the opportunity to figure out what we want, picture it in our minds and pull it into existence through our desire for it.
Okay let’s slow this thing down a little. Remember how I told you that our brains (and our hearts too, but that’s another story) are the most powerful things in our body? Well, in order to get all we can from what we know so far about our brain, we have to feed it. We have to give it what it needs to do the work we want it to do. What we know so far, is visualization and meditation helps the brain to accomplish miraculous things.
When we visualize, we are telling our brains to put its supernatural energy on a specific thing and bring it to us. Our brain is designed to be the power center that keeps our body functioning at its ideal level of physical and mental health, but it needs direction from us. Just like taking vitamins everyday tells out body to produce more of those nutrients, visualization tells our brain to do the same thing in a more metaphysical sense.
Okay, so what do you want? Big or small because there is no difference to your brain. Figure out what you want, think about it until it begins to make a clear picture in your mind. Include as many details as are possible. Visit it often in your mind. What does it look like? What does it feel like? What do you smell? What color is it? Every possible detail.
Then when it starts to make you feel a certain way inside yourself, enjoy that feeling. Do you feel happy? Do you feel excited? Are you laughing? Are you satisfied? Are you relieved that you finally have this thing you’ve wanted for so long? Enjoy those feelings! Feel those feelings whenever you think about the desires of your heart and be happy for them!
Now you have the visualization, expect it to manifest in your life. Don’t put a date on it, but expect it everyday. Wake up thinking this is the day it will manifest into my everyday life and I’m so happy and excited and grateful! Look for it and expect but don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t show up when you think it should. Instead jump for joy on the day that it does!
So, if you really want to know what I think, “Just Ask Me, I’ll Tell You!”
JUST ASK ME, I’LL TELL YOU
By Jeanine Ross
DEAR HOMEKEEPER
By Cat Henry
COMMUNITY
EVENTS EVENTS
May 17
Sweatlodge for Veterans
The Light Center, 4 p.m.
Reserve your space: info@ lightcenter.info
May 20
Council Meeting
Baldwin City Community Center, 7 p.m. May 21
Sundae Funday: Ice Cream Social & BCK United Presents Grey Garden
Sullivan Square, 3:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
May 21
Meet the Artist: Multiverse
Lumberyard Arts Center, 5 p.m. -6 p.m.
May 21
Grey Garden Live
Sullivan Square, 6 p.m.
May 24
Baldwin City Farmer’s Market
near Sullivan Square, 8 a.m. - 10:30/11 a.m. questions? contact hornbergerfarms@gmail. com
May 24 Summer Reading Kickoff Party
Baldwin City Public Library 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
May 24
Hypertufa Pots Vinland Valley Nursery, 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
May 24
50+ Outing: Dueling Pianos at KC Wine Co.
Masonic Lodge Parking Lot 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
May 28
Storytime: Om Grown Yoga
Baldwin City Public
May 30 Chamber Golf Tournament
June 7
City-Wide Garage Sale
Watch for more information about The Maple’s NEW Garage Sale Guide coming this year!
June 7 A Grief Retreat Day
The Light Center, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
June 11
Stuffy Story Time and Clinic with Dr. Cramer Baldwin City Public Library, 3-4 p.m.
June 14
City-Wide Clean Up
Email: jenni@baldwinmaple.com
A natural sanctuary for personal & spiritual development
Camping Event Space
Sweatlodges Lodging Family Camps for Veterans (Funded in part by Douglas County Community Foundation)
info@lightcenter.info • www.lightcenter.info
GRADUATION GALLERY
Graduating seniors make their entrance as the Class of 2025 begins their commencement ceremony; Principal Brant Brittingham presents the Class of 2025 during the commencement ceremony; Student Body President Claire Baker welcomes guests and introduces the commencement speaker; Andreas Brandenberger delivers the commencement address to the graduating class; Superintendent Mark Dodge and Principal Brant Brittingham lead the Class of 2025 into the ceremony.
