FALL 2012
THE MAGAZINE PUBLISHED FOR THE ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY
A Perfect Visit: Springfield-area travel tips for alumni, from alumni
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VOL. 7 ISSUE 3
RECONNECT... WITH YOUR MISSOURI STATE BOOKSTORE
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check out our brand-new online catalog at shop.MissouriStateBookstore.com
FEATURES
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Publisher: Missouri State University, Office of Publications Editors: Stacey Funderburk, Michelle S. Rose Designer: Amy Schuldt Alumni Notes Editors: Debbie Branson, Julie Ebersold, Stephanie Matthews Photographers: Elena Bravo, Jesse Scheve, John Wall, Kevin White Writers: Ben Adamson, Aaron Baker, Jessica Clements, Eric Doennig, Don Hendricks, Paul Kincaid, Rick Kindhart, Jeida Mitchell, Andrea Mostyn, Don Payton, Clif Smart
ONCE CHAMPIONS, NOW LEGENDS
Members of the back-to-back NAIA championship basketball teams of the early 1950s are still being recognized for their amazing feats.
Office of Development and Alumni Relations Julie Ebersold, Executive Director of Alumni Relations Denise Kettering, Director of Advancement Services Melanie Earl, Director of Annual Funds Jenny Crews, Director of Prospect Management and Research Wendy Ferguson, Director of Planned & Corporate Giving Stephanie Lashley, Director of Donor Relations Debbie Branson, Assistant Director of Alumni Activities Candice Wolf, Assistant Director of Alumni Activities Angela Pinegar, Assistant Director of Advancement Services Cheryl Burnett, Director of Development Dick Laird, Director of Development Marie Murphree, Director of Development Don Swift, Director of Development Michael Whitley, Director of Development Daniel Heflin, Director of Athletics Development Andrew Garton, Foundation Scholarship Coordinator Phone: 417-836-4143 Fax: 417-836-6886 Email: Foundation@missouristate.edu Email: Alumni@missouristate.edu
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MISSOURI STATE GIFT GUIDE
Go to all your holiday events Bear-ing gifts! From spatulas to sundresses, wine stoppers to watches, here’s a guide to some of the best-selling, most interesting or brand-new items at Missouri State.
Elizabeth Grisham, Director of Development, Missouri State-West Plains Campus Joe Kammerer, Assistant Director of Development, Missouri State-West Plains Campus Phone: 417-255-7240 Fax: 417-255-7241 Email: Development@wp.missouristate.edu Alumni Board of Directors Jeremiah Mee, President, ’93, Springfield Marilyn Bueker, ’76, Springfield Jim Cantrell, ’62, Springfield Kim Carlos, ’94, Kansas City, Mo. Al Ellison, ’58, Springfield Mary Kay Frazier, ’83, Springfield Brent Hanks, ’89, Ozark, Mo. Beverly Miller, ’73, Lebanon, Mo. Zach Porting, Student, Jefferson City, Mo. Molly Reddick, Student, Springfield Foundation Board of Trustees Officers Bill E. Hixon, Chair, Springfield Rich Young, Vice Chair, Arlington, Mass. Mary McQueary, Secretary, Springfield Steve Foucart, Treasurer (ex-officio) Executive Committee Ethel Curbow, Springfield Robert Fulp, Springfield Mike Ingram, Springfield Tim O’Reilly, Springfield Pat Sechler, Springfield Scott Tarwater, Springfield Ex-Officio Clif Smart, Interim President, Missouri State University Gordon Elliott, Member, Board of Governors, Missouri State University Executive Director Brent Dunn, Vice President for University Advancement Phone: 417-836-4143 Fax: 417-836-6886 Email: Foundation@missouristate.edu Missouri State is published three times a year by the Missouri State University Alumni Association, Missouri State University, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897. Postmaster: Send address changes to Missouri State, Office of Alumni Relations, 901 S. National Ave., Springfield, MO 65897 Missouri State University adheres to a strict nondiscrimination policy and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, disability or veteran status in any program or activity offered or sponsored by the University. Prohibited sex discrimination encompasses sexual harassment, which includes sexual violence. In addition, the University does not discriminate on any basis (including, but not limited to, political affiliation and sexual orientation) not related to the applicable educational requirements for students or the applicable job requirements for employees.
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A PERFECT VISIT
Planning a long weekend back on campus this fall or winter? We can help. We gathered eight alumni from Springfield and asked them for suggestions about where to eat, where to play and where to take the kids when you’re in our neighborhood.
IN YOUR NEXT ISSUE ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS: Meet the graduates honored during the October 2012 Homecoming ceremony Also in the spring 2013 issue: Missouri State is expected to name a new president this fall. Get an in-depth look at the person who will hold the prestigious job. Read about the final tally of Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State, the long-reaching fundraising effort that wraps up at the end of 2012.
Printed with soy ink. ALM 087 12
Look for the next issue of Missouri State Magazine in your mailbox!
ON THE COVER: Get your BearWear packed and get on the road for a visit to Missouri State! PHOTOGRAPH BY KEVIN WHITE
M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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A R O U N D T H E Q UA D C A M P U S N E W S
MSU, OTC sign two articulation agreements
JOHN WALL
Missouri State University and Ozarks Technical Community College have signed two articulation agreements providing a seamless pathway for OTC students to transfer their Associate of Science or Applied Science degrees to complete a bachelor’s degree entirely online with MSU. A Bachelor of Applied Science in technology management can be completed online for OTC students who have earned an Associate of Applied Science. A Bachelor of Science in criminology can be completed online for OTC students who have earned an Associate of Arts. “This agreement is evidence of Missouri State and OTC’s shared commitment to increasing opportunities for student access and success in higher education,” said Interim President Clif Smart, pictured standing. “We expect this to be yet another successful example of how the two institutions have cooperated to benefit students over the past 20 years.” Pictured with Smart is Dr. Hal Higdon, chancellor of Ozarks Technical Community College. n
Gov. Jay Nixon announces Missouri Innovation Campus grants; MSU receives $1 million
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Gov. Jay Nixon announced that nearly $9 million in grants will be used to establish Innovation Campuses throughout Missouri. Missouri State, which is among more than a dozen other Missouri colleges and universities participating in the Innovation Campuses, will receive $1 million to partner in the grant to create a pathway for students to careers in high-demand fields.
JOHN WALL
Area high school students interested in health care fields may get a head start on their careers by participating in the Innovation Campus-Health Professional Academy. Innovation Campuses across the state will train students for career opportunities in high-demand fields, cut the time it takes to earn a college degree and reduce student debt. The governor made an announcement about these campuses during a visit to Missouri State University, which is a partner in a $1 million Innovation Campus Grant to help prepare students for careers in the growing health care industry. “Innovation Campuses create a direct connection for Missouri students between the skills they learn in the classroom, and the skills that are in demand today,” Gov. Nixon said. “Not only will students be trained for solid careers in growing industries, they’ll be able to earn those degrees in less time with lower debt as a result.” Beginning this fall, Missouri State enrolled high school students who want a career in the health care industry in the Innovation Campus-Health Professions
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Academy, a cooperative partnership between Missouri State University, Greene County, Ozarks Technical Community College, Springfield Public Schools, CoxHealth and Mercy Health Systems. Participating students will be able to begin college course work in an early-start program as high school juniors and seniors. They will have the potential to earn a bachelor’s degree in a variety of health care fields within three to five years after high school graduation. Once students have earned a bachelor’s degree, they will be eligible for priority hiring at Mercy and CoxHealth.
“We are excited about the Health Professional Academy and its potential,” said Interim President Clif Smart. “We very much appreciate Gov. Nixon initiating the Innovation Campus Grant program, and we are pleased that this proposal was funded. We are confident it will help the Springfield hospitals and medical community to meet the growing demand and, therefore, prove beneficial for the entire region. Most of all, we believe this collaborative partnership program will be of great value to the students interested in pursuing health professions.” n
AT A GLANCE FALL 2013 ON CAMPUS Public Affairs theme Inclusive Excellence
KEVIN WHITE
www.publicaffairs.missouristate.edu
Common Reader 2012 selection: “Outcasts United”
Jordan Valley Innovation Center celebrates five years of growth
Senator Roy Blunt addresses the audience during the Jordan Valley Innovation Center five-year celebration. JVIC, Brick City and the Robert W. Plaster Center for Free Enterprise and Business Development are cornerstones of the University’s IDEA Commons in downtown Springfield.
Downtown Springfield has undergone many changes during the past five years, but the opening of the Roy Blunt Jordan Valley Innovation Center in 2007 marked one of the biggest changes for the encouragement of economic development in the area. To celebrate, the Jordan Valley Innovation Center hosted a five-year celebration on June 1, featuring Senator Roy Blunt along with University and community leaders. “One of the distinctive characteristics of Missouri State is the IDEA Commons, with the centerpiece being the Roy Blunt Jordan Valley Innovation Center,” said Interim President Clif Smart. “It is a concept that has captured the imagination of the city, region, state and nation. But none of this would have been possible without the vision and leadership of Senator Blunt and the support of our local city, county and chamber leadership.” IDEA Commons was designed to incorporate elements of innovation, design, entrepreneurship and the arts into one location that would attract young talent and build the community. JVIC is the cornerstone for IDEA Commons, and it focuses on environmentally friendly projects with an applied research emphasis on biomaterials, nanotechnology, carbon-based electronics, biomedical instrument development and energy. n
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A number of local and national leaders spoke during the five-year celebration. Watch a video of their comments.
www.missouristate.edu/ 1book1community
Family weekend Sept. 22-23 www.missouristate.edu/ familyweekend
Homecoming 2012 Oct. 26-27 www.alumni.missouristate. edu/homecoming.htm
Opening of the Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center This state-of-the-art facility includes:
Aquatics center Basketball courts Climbing wall and boulder Fitness center
www.missouristate.edu/ recreation/reccenter
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A R O U N D T H E Q UA D C A M P U S N E W S
PRESIDENT ’S MESSAGE Dear Alumni and Friends: We have just completed a very productive year at Missouri State. We graduated the most students ever: 4,182 We recommitted ourselves to modest enrollment growth and had the largest spring and summer enrollments ever We added new programs, including the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, a completer degree targeted to community college students, and an online MBA program We began new collaborations with local universities and community colleges, as well as the University of Missouri-Kansas City (Doctor of Pharmacy) We reinvigorated the adult program by launching Evening College Plus We hired the University’s first vice president for diversity and inclusion and created that division Despite declining state appropriations, we reallocated money to fund the first across-the-board salary increase in three years We reached the $125 million goal of Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State a year early and increased the target to $150 million by the end of this year, as well as set a new annual record with $20 million in donations to the Foundation, almost $4 million more than the previous high We completed the Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center, the McQueary Family Health Sciences Hall, Greenwood Science Scholars’ Laboratory, and Phase I and II renovation of residence halls, and began work on Gohn Hall in West Plains These accomplishments were the result of the hard and good work of our faculty, staff and administrators. It was and is a great team effort.
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But most of all, our students succeeded in many, many ways, including: Three Missouri State teams qualified for the National Debate Finals The Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) team won its regional tournament in Chicago The Marketing Team won second in its national tournament The Standard, the student newspaper, was judged best in a four-state region One of our student newscasts won best in a four-state region The White String Quartet finished in the top six in the nation The student-athletes won the Missouri Valley Conference all-sports trophy and had the top two scholar athletes in the conference: Lacey Boshe and Heath Melugin Student Jacob Singleton was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship, the top international scholarship program in America, to study German history and language in Germany And I could go on and on with other student accomplishments, from building Habitat homes to helping the working poor and homeless in Chicago during an alternative Spring Break trip. Our students — our future alumni — inspire us every day. There is a lot to be proud of at Missouri State University. Every day I am proud to represent you as interim president. Very truly yours,
Clif Smart Interim President
New deans take office in COAL, COE and libraries Three administrative posts were filled this summer with the appointments of Dr. Gloria Galanes, professor of communication, and Dr. David Hough, professor of reading, foundations and technology, to interim dean positions, while Thomas Peters was named University libraries dean.
College of Arts and Letters
College of Education
University Libraries
Dr. Gloria Galanes, a faculty member at Missouri State since 1986, was appointed the interim dean of the College of Arts and Letters, known as COAL. Galanes replaces Dr. Carey Adams, who accepted a position as provost and vice president for academic affairs at Armstrong Atlantic State College in Savannah, Ga. Galanes has served in many leadership roles within the University, including service as acting dean of COAL, acting department head of communication and mass media, founding director of citizenship and service learning, and provost fellow for public affairs. She has also been actively involved in the community, including roles on the Springfield Regional Arts Council, Community Foundation of the Ozarks and the Mayor’s Commission for Children.
Gaining reaccreditation from the National Accreditation Council for Teacher Education will be the top priority for Dr. David Hough as newly appointed interim dean of the College of Education (COE). Hough, who served as dean from 2000-08, replaces Dr. Dennis J. Kear, who returned to the faculty. “Returning to the College of Education dean’s position will be a ‘Back to the Future’-type of experience,” said Hough. “A number of policies, processes and initiatives that were operational four years ago will be examined closely this fall, and I fully expect many will be re-energized over the next two years. Chief among these will once again be the support of faculty in the College of Education and across campus as we work together to achieve a successful review by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education.”
Thomas Peters, former assistant dean for strategic technology initiatives at the Milner Library at Illinois State University, was named dean of University Libraries at MSU. He replaces dean Neosha Mackey, who retired after 27 dedicated years of service to Missouri State. In addition to his experience at Illinois State University, Peters was the founder and chief executive officer of TAP Information Services. He also worked as the director of the Center for Library Initiatives at the Committee on Institutional Cooperation, the dean of university libraries at Western Illinois University and the associate director for collections and technical services for Northern Illinois University. n
Dr. Gloria Galanes
Dr. David Hough
Thomas Peters
New director sought for University bookstore after internal audit shows money missing Missouri State is advertising for a new bookstore director following an internal audit that led to the resignation of the former director. The job was posted Aug. 31 and the closing date for applications is Sept. 21. A complete job description is available at https://jobs.missouristate.edu/.
About the bookstore The bookstore is a University-owned and operated self-funded auxiliary. All profits are reinvested into the Missouri State community. The bookstore does not receive state funding or student fees. In fiscal year 2012, the bookstore processed more than 320,000 transactions
totaling more than $15 million in sales. During that fiscal year, the bookstore transferred $1,216,304 back to the University’s operating budget. This fiscal year, that transfer is expected to be more than $1.5 million.
Investigation into missing money The search for a new director became necessary when Mark Brixey, bookstore director since 2000, resigned Aug. 17 after it was discovered that more than $400,000 had gone missing from the bookstore over the past three years. Missouri State Interim President Clif Smart announced the missing money at a news conference Aug. 20.
The missing funds were discovered during a routine internal audit. That audit is continuing, and the Springfield Police are now conducting an investigation. The total amount missing and the number of years involved are still unknown. Missouri has a statewide employeetheft insurance policy, and the University is part of this policy. MSU officials are optimistic that most of the missing money will be recovered through the policy. The missing money and subsequent investigation has not, and will not, affect student fees or prices at the bookstore. For the news release about the audit, see http://news.missouristate. edu/2012/08/20/bookstoreaudit/. n M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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MAROON AND WHITE SPORTS
KEVIN WHITE
Bears and Lady Bears Basketball teams launch into preseason with international play in Costa Rica
Bears take home 2011-12 MVC All-Sports Trophy
players a unique educational opportunity. “From the standpoint of recruiting and keeping us competitive on a national level, this was monumental for our program,” Lusk said. “There are obvious competitive advantages a trip like this provided — getting to practice together in the summer, playing good international opponents and giving our team a chance to begin bonding. But the bigger picture was a unique, once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience. It was an opportunity that supported our University’s statewide mission in public affairs and reflected our program’s goal to develop well-rounded student-athletes.” Lady Bears Head Coach Milleson, who welcomed six new freshmen, said, “Coming off a great season where we had five seniors on the roster, this trip was a great way to mix our veterans with our freshmen. With 10 extra days of practice and the time spent together bonding on the trip, along with the benefits of international competition, the trip provided a great jump-start for the 2012-13 season.” The Bears’ regular-season home opener is Nov. 9 against Philander Smith College from Little Rock, Ark., while the Lady Bears will open the 2012-13 campaign Nov. 13 at JQH Arena against defending WNIT champion Oklahoma State. Season tickets are still available. Fans may stop by the Chevy Pickup Window, located in JQH Arena, or call 417-836-7678 or 888-476-7849. Discounts are available for seniors and Missouri State faculty and staff. n
IN THE
Missouri State’s five conference championships and four league runner-up finishes during the 2011-12 school year pushed the Bears to capture the Missouri Valley Conference All-Sports Trophy. This marks the fourth time MSU Bears have taken the MVC top honor in the University’s history. n
Bears and Lady Bears Basketball team members visited Costa Rica to play exhibition games but also found time to give back. Athletes visited a children’s hospital, put on a youth basketball clinic and participated in local cultural activities.
For the first time in the history of the Bears Basketball program, and the first time in the Nyla Milleson Lady Bears era, the Missouri State basketball teams included an international trip in their training schedule. The Bears and Lady Bears embarked on a tour of Costa Rica in mid-August that combined practice and a series of exhibition games with a unique cultural experience for the student-athletes, including community service activities. Bears Head Coach Paul Lusk said the trip kept Missouri State on par with some of the nation’s top programs, and provided
Anthony Downing Men’s Basketball n Senior
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Atchison, Kan.
An MVC All-Newcomer selection last season, Anthony Downing will be the Bears’ only active senior this winter when the team hits the hardwood. He averaged 11.5 points, 3.2 rebounds and 2.3 assists with 41 three-pointers his junior campaign. He earned MVC Newcomer of the Week honors four times in his first season in Springfield after transferring from Independence (Kan.) Community College and scored in double figures in nine of the Bears’ last 10 games.
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Karly Buer Women’s Basketball
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Junior
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Concordia, Kan.
Karly Buer sparked Missouri State to the Missouri Valley Conference title in 2012 as the Lady Bears won 11 games in a row upon her insertion into the starting lineup on Jan. 21. Buer closed the season averaging 10.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.9 assists for the conference slate and 9.3 points overall. The junior guard won the Lady Bear Prestige Award following the season, which is given to the player exhibiting the most desire, determination and dedication.
Bears back in the Big Dance; Guttin exceeds 1,000-win career mark A slew of midseason injuries and the burden of heightened preseason expectations couldn’t stop the 2012 Missouri State baseball team from ending a nine-year NCAA Tournament drought. Led by 30-year Head Coach Keith Guttin, who surpassed the 1,000 career win mark in March, the Bears capped a successful year for MSU athletics with a 40-22 season that culminated in the eighth postseason berth in school history – their first since a trip to the 2003 College World Series.
MSU hurlers shine in national spotlight
Sophomore pitcher Nick Petree’s remarkable campaign netted numerous All-America honors, as well as the first national player of the year citation for a Baseball Bear when Collegiate Baseball tabbed the Clinton, Mo., product its 2012 Louisville Slugger National Player of the Year. Petree also became the first Bear in 13 years to be selected as a first-team All-American by Baseball America. In all, he earned four different first-team All-America honors, in addition to second-team recognition from two other organizations. The 2012 Missouri Valley Conference Pitcher of the Year, Petree turned in the nation’s longest scoreless-inning streak this season, working a Missouri State-record 38.1 consecutive shutout frames, as well as 73.0 straight innings without giving up an earned run. Petree finished the year 10-4 with the nation’s lowest individual earned run average (1.01) and 114 strikeouts in 115.1 innings pitched. The right-hander was named a semifinalist for both the NCBWA’s Dick Howser Trophy and USA Baseball’s Golden Spikes Award after leading a dominant Bears’ pitching staff that posted the best team ERA in the country. Petree wasn’t alone in racking up postseason honors. Freshman left-handed pitcher Tyler
By Eric Doennig
Burgess also garnered his share of attention after going 5-2 with 11 saves and a 2.08 ERA in his first year as a Bear. The Webb City, Mo., native picked up Freshman All-America accolades from Collegiate Baseball and the NCBWA, as well as MVC Freshman of the Year honors.
History in the ma-K-ing
Nick Petree
With three different pitchers ranked among the MVC’s individual strikeout leaders this season, the MSU staff piled up “K”s at a record-setting pace in 2012. The Bears’ season total of 537 strikeouts surpassed the 2003 squad’s 530, which represented the club’s best single-season mark during the Division I era. Additionally, junior righty Pierce Johnson eclipsed the Bears’ all-time mark for strikeouts in a single season with 119, surpassing Chad Mulholland’s nine-year-old record. All told, the Bears set team records for the lowest ERA (2.57) and shutout total (11) in the 49-year history of the program.
Tyler Burgess
Bears in the MLB draft
Pierce Johnson and Kevin Medrano capitalized on standout Missouri State careers, becoming the latest Bears taken in the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. The Chicago Cubs selected Johnson in the Comp Round with the 43rd overall pick, making the Colorado native the Bears’ highest overall draftee since Washington selected Ross Detwiler with the sixth overall pick in 2007. Medrano began his pro career in 2012 as well after the Arizona Diamondbacks nabbed the infielder in the 18th round. The Lee’s Summit, Mo., product batted .346 over 217 career games at MSU, the latter figure ranking seventh in Bears’ history. He also ranks second all-time at MSU in hits and assists and holds the Bears’ career records for singles and sacrifice hits. n
Pierce Johnson
Kevin Medrano
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nline Exclusive missouristatebears.com Althia Maximilien Track and Field n Sophomore Bridgetown, Barbados
Watch video interviews of Althia Maximilien and Paul Le.
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Althia Maximilien was one of the nation’s top 400-meter sprinters last season and looks to lead Coach Ron Boyce’s squad again in 2012-13. After helping the Bears win the 2012 MVC Indoor Track title, she qualified for the NCAA Division I Championships during the outdoor season and finished 19th in the 400 as one of only two freshmen in the national field. She followed that performance (53.07) with a 400-meter win in the Barbados National Championships in July.
Slide show
Paul Le Men’s Swimming and Diving Moore, Okla.
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Sophomore
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Paul Le joined elite company, becoming the third MSU male swimmer to compete at a U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials meet. In June, the all-MAC first-team selection trekked to Omaha, Neb., to swim with the world’s best at the CenturyLink Center. His trip was highlighted by a career best in the 100 backstroke and a top-50 finish. With a .72 second drop in the event, he moved up 55 spots and finished 38th in the final rankings.
M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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MAROON AND WHITE SPORTS
CHAMPIONS LEGENDS 6 0 YE A R S L AT E R ,
By Mark Stillwell
Members of the back-to-back NAIA championship basketball teams of the early 1950s are still being recognized for their amazing feats. In the 107-year history of Missouri State athletics, the story that has transcended the decades and drawn more acclaim than any other has been the accomplishments of two basketball teams more than half a century ago. The 1951-52 Bears of Coach Bob Vanatta captured the imagination of Springfield and southwest Missouri when they journeyed to Municipal Auditorium in nearby Kansas City and won five games in six days to claim the school’s first-ever NAIA national basketball championship. A year later, they did it again, in the process becoming the first school to win back-to-back titles in the history of the tournament in its grueling 32-team format. President Harry S. Truman was in attendance. MSU President Roy Ellis called off classes. The excitement 10
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surrounding the team and its players captured the fancy of the entire basketballcrazy region. It’s been suggested often that the Bears’ back-to-back titles have been a key factor in the huge interest in basketball in southwest Missouri to this day. The 1952-53 championship included perhaps the single most storied moment in MSU athletics history with the exploits of the Fabulous Four. In that year’s tourney semifinal game against a taller Indiana State team, five Bears had fouled out and the team was down to just nine players at the start of the tourney as squad members Jerry Lumpe and Norm Siebern had departed for Florida and baseball spring training with the New York Yankees. With three minutes to go in a game that was tied, the Bears found themselves with just four available players – but the quartet of Bill Thomas, Bill Price, Don
Duckworth and Ray Birdsong held off five ISU Sycamores to fashion a six-point win and send the Bears into the championship game the next night. Birdsong hit a long hook shot to break the tie and put the Bears ahead. Then, in rules in place at the time, a team awarded two free throws, if it made the first free throw, could elect possession of the basketball instead of the second shot. Thomas was the primary beneficiary as he dribbled around until the ISU defenders caught and fouled him, made the first free throw, and kept repeating the process. The players on those two MSU squads were a close-knit bunch at the time and have remained so ever since, coming back to campus for reunion events at the 20-year, 30-year, 40-year and 50-year anniversaries of the two titles. And now, the 60th anniversary of
KEVIN WHITE
H AV E B E CO M E
Bill Thomas (from left), Jerry Anderson and Jim Moulder played on the 1951-52 and 1952-53 NAIA championship Bears basketball teams. They meet regularly in Springfield with fellow team member Jerry Lumpe, not pictured.
The 1951-52 Bears (above) won five games in six days to claim the school’s first National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics national basketball championship. The 1952-53 team (left) posed with the second NAIA championship trophy in front of the portrait of the previous year’s team.
those teams is at hand, and it has been marked by even more honors for the fabled group. At its national tourney in Kansas City in March, the NAIA selected and announced a 75th anniversary all-star team from the history of the tournament, and that honor team included Coach Vanatta and Jerry Anderson of the Bears. Anderson, who still lives in Springfield, journeyed to Kansas City for the recognition. Coach Vanatta lives in Florida. “It was quite an event,” recalls Anderson, who was also on the NAIA 20th anniversary all-tourney team and all-time,
all-tourney team. “We were taken out to the court and introduced to the crowd at the halftime of the championship game. There were a lot of festivities, including a very large cake around which the team gathered for photos.” The two Bears’ championship teams were remarkable in that the squad members gathered virtually in the entirety of the squad from all over the country for the reunions through the 50-year level. Don Anielak died several years ago, and more recently Birdsong, John Grimm, Bull Starnes, Jim Julian and Fred Stephens. Other team members from one or both of the two squads included Forrest
Hamilton, Art Helms, Bill Lea, Jack Trogdon, Bob Tubert and Larry Giboney. Several team members remain in the Springfield area and Thomas, Anderson, Lumpe and Jim Moulder share lunch and old basketball stories a couple times each month. The two teams rolled up a total of 51 victories over two seasons and Thomas, Anderson, Julian, Hamilton, Lea, Anielak and Helms were accorded NAIA All-America honors. n Mark Stillwell is a former sports information director for Missouri State. Now retired, Stillwell continues to write about Bears athletics in various publications. M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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Gift Guide The holiday season approaches — as do birthdays, anniversaries and other occasions worth celebrating! You know, of course, that the Missouri State bookstore sells BearWear T-shirts and textbooks. But did you know about the other fun stuff you can find there for alumni and fans? Here’s a guide to some of the best-selling, most interesting or brand-new items at the campus bookstore.
FOR THE PROFESSIONAL’S DEN Set of bookends made of rosewood, featuring Missouri State seal: $99.99 Set of brass coasters featuring the Missouri State seal and leather inlay, with wood-finish stand: $57.99
FOR THE PATIO “Sportula” (the sports-lover’s spatula): $23.99 Limestone rock with logo (desktop or pet-rock size): $15.99 Limestone rock with logo (doorstop or garden-décor size): $34.99
FOR YOUR BEAR CUBS “Start ‘Em Young, Raise ‘Em Right” shirt: $9.99
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FOR FLUFFY AND FIDO
Dress with braid detail: $31.99
Pet bowls: $8.99 each
Bat and ball set: $11.99
Pet collar: $12.99
Toy bear: $4.99
Reversible bibs: $9.99 each
FOR THE FAN OF ACCESSORIES FOR THE GOLFER
Square earrings with Bear-head logos: $11.99
Putter cover: $10.99
Watch with gold-tone University seal and brown leather straps: $84.99
Golf balls: $2.99 each Set of 50 tees: $8.99 Divot repair tool: $9.99
Silver watch with Bear-head logo and University word logo: $79.99 Pendant necklace with University seal: $24.99 Women’s sunglasses: $14.99 Men’s sunglasses: $14.99
FOR THE WINE LOVER Missouri State wines are produced and bottled by the Mountain Grove Cellars winery on the Mountain Grove campus. Wine sales support research and education in viticulture and enology at Missouri State. Prices range from $10.99 to $18.99 for reds, whites, port and fruit wines. Buy at the Mountain Grove campus, online at www.brownderby.com or in Springfield at Brown Derby International Wine Center or Hy-Vee grocers. Set of wine stoppers: $29.99
FOR THE CYCLIST
FOR THE BARGAIN HUNTER: LESS THAN $10!
Bike jersey: $79.99
Ornaments: $5.99 each
CamelBak bottle: $19.99
Leather ID and card holder with word logo: $7.99
Shop for all MSU gear The bookstore’s recently refreshed online site is the place to find clothes, hats, umbrellas, cups, pennants and everything else Bear-related. Web: www.Shop. MissouriStateBookstore.com Phone: 417-836-5403
Leather ID and card holder with Bear head logo: $8.99 Assorted pens: $2.99-$3.99 Giant Bear head pendant on beaded necklace: $5.99 Bear head key chain: $8.99 Tote bag: $9.99 Gift card: Any amount you choose!
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A Perfect Visit By Michelle S. Rose
Maybe you’re joining us for Homecoming festivities. Maybe you’re coming to campus to take in a game. Or maybe we’re putting on a performing arts event you just can’t miss. While you’re visiting Missouri State this fall or winter, you might also like to know where to eat, where to play and where to take the kids. We gathered eight alumni from Springfield and asked them for suggestions when you’re planning a long weekend back on campus. Here are their recommendations. Hope to see you soon!
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Download an app that gives directions to the sites recommended by our panel, and weigh in on the discussion — tell us your favorites that we missed in this story’s comments section!
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Meet our panel MELINDA ARNOLD, ’91 & ’95 Public relations/marketing director, Friends of the Zoo [Shameless plug!] “We’re very fortunate in Springfield to have the size of zoo we have in Dickerson Park Zoo. We have a lot of animals … and you can feed giraffes, which is, like, the coolest thing in the world!” CHRIS AUSTIN, ’05 Web designer, Missouri State University [Shameless plug!] “Keep up with MSU online!”
JENNY FILLMER EDWARDS, ’02 Public information administrator, Springfield-Greene County Park Board [Shameless plug!] “If you’ve been away from Springfield for a while, I would say see some of the new parks and definitely Jordan Valley Park — it’s THE downtown park.”
RICK KINDHART, ’91 Director of athletics communications, Missouri State University [Shameless plug!] “GO BEARS!!”
MATT KRUPA, ’94 Owner, Pasta Express and 425 Downtown [Shameless plug!] “We’re most known for toasted ravioli. That dish is a tradition in St. Louis and is our number-one seller. We make our sauces daily, and most of our other Italian products are from St. Louis.”
SUSAN WADE, ’90 & ’93 Public relations manager, Springfield Convention & Visitor’s Bureau [Shameless plug!] “Springfield has something for everyone — it is becoming such a cool place.” MICK WHITCOMB, ’10 Owner, Nomad downtown boutique [Shameless plug!] “Nomad is about products inspired by the world. We have micro-brand clothing lines we design and manufacture. We also have accessories and jewelry by local artists. For the home, there’s locally made art, Javanese artifacts and custom furniture made from salvaged wood.” NATASHA WINSTON, ’10 Admission counselor for diversity outreach and recruitment, Missouri State University [Shameless plug!] “Send your students to Missouri State!”
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Eat CASUAL RESTAURANTS
JENNY: Crosstown Barbecue. You can see everything that’s going on in the kitchen — they’re having a good time. The ribs are awesome. And the walls are just covered with Springfield history. MATT: Mexican Villa. (Entire group says “Oh, yeahhhh.”) It’s a staple of Springfield. MICK: Grad School. Their fish tacos are amazing — they’re spicy but they’re unbelievable. And my fiancé is vegan and they have a bean burger she always gets. MELINDA: Leong’s Asian Diner. Their family invented (Springfield’s) original cashew chicken. RICK: Ebbets Field is a good lunch fix on a game day. Also mentioned: 5 Spice China Grill, Casper’s chili, Maria’s Mexican Restaurant, Pizza House FINE DINING
NATASHA: Kai — they have sushi specials on Wednesday and Thursday nights. MICK: Flame. The steaks there are so good. They also have a great seafood menu. CHRIS: My wife and I like happy-hour sushi at Ocean Zen, when they have half-off prices on their rolls. We also go to Flo because they specialize in tapas-type dishes. You can mix-and-match. MELINDA: Metropolitan Grill. I could make a meal on their flash-fried spinach!
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MATT: Haruno, hands down. They have great hospitality there — so warm and inviting. Get the Eye of the Tiger roll!
MATT: Our kids demand Andy’s (frozen custard)! I am just stuck on their turtle sundae.
Also mentioned: Argentina Steakhouse, Avanzare, Jimm’s Steakhouse & Pub, Gilardi’s, Nicola’s
JENNY: When I have friends in from out of town, Askinosie Chocolate is always on the to-do list. You can do a tour and see the equipment they use to make the chocolate, or just go in to buy some chocolate.
WHERE TO GET A COFFEE FIX
MELINDA: Mudhouse. The smell of the freshly roasted beans, the care they take making the drinks — it doesn’t feel assembly-line. MICK: The Coffee Ethic. It’s a great place with cool furniture. It’s connected to the downtown library. I just drink black coffee, I don’t do the fancy thing — and Coffee Ethic has just good coffee. JENNY: Big Momma’s on Commercial Street. They have an adorable macchiato; it’s in a little cup and saucer. And how ’bout Anton’s (Coffee Shop)? Anton says he can tell if that coffee has been sitting there for more than 10 minutes. They are constantly brewing a new pot, so it’s always fresh — and your coffee will also be next to your breakfast, which is great! Also mentioned: The Buzz FAVORITE DESSERTS
MELINDA: The banana cake at St. Michael’s Bar & Grille. WHOA. JENNY: Aviary Cafe for the dessert crepes! I love the Peach Melba, but Nutella’s good too. SUSAN: The Promised Land cake at Honey Heaven. It’s white cake and it’s chilled and it’s got whipped-topping frosting and they drizzle honey over it. Ooooh. Or Elle’s Patisserie for killer hand-made truffles.
Also mentioned: Pineapple Whip, Fedora Social House WHERE TO MEET FOR A DRINK
MICK: Mother’s Brewing Company. Their tasting room has microbrews they don’t commercially package. CHRIS: Farmers Gastropub has a good selection of beers, and they let you try a sample to see what you like. NATASHA: Mudlounge has a great pomegranate martini with a hint of lime. MELINDA: Ophelia’s is a wine bar that also makes good cocktails. JENNY: Coldest beer in town: Pappy’s. They have the oldest liquor license in town. Also mentioned: The J.O.B. Public House, The Boogie, The Outland, Big Whiskey’s
Shop WHERE IT’S FUN TO BROWSE MICK: Just go downtown. Most of the boutiques downtown are locally owned and many of the owners are Missouri State graduates. There’s 5 Pound Apparel, Modern Society, Downtown Clothing Exchange … I could go on. CHRIS: Red Velvet. It’s two young ladies with hand-crafted materials for sale. Sometimes they will have musicians playing; sometimes they have cupcakes there, too. SUSAN: Bass Pro. Everybody likes Bass Pro. And there have been lots of changes there — décor changes and expansion. JENNY: STD flea markets. A bit of trivia: The name stands for Springfield Tool and Die. Also mentioned: The Baglady Boutique, Funtiques Market, Relics Antique Mall, Mike’s Unique Collectable & Antique Flea Market WHERE TO PICK UP A PICNIC MELINDA: Bistro Market downtown has a very urban feel. It’s hip — there’s a bar, restaurant and gelato counter in a grocery store. NATASHA: I get up on Saturday morning and stock up on produce at a farmers market. There are ones open year-round.
Gather AREA FESTIVALS FIRST FRIDAY ART WALKS, OCT. 5, NOV. 2, DEC. 7: Dozens of downtown art galleries and other businesses feature original art, music, demonstrations and performances. TASTE OF SPRINGFIELD, OCT. 6: Visitors try samples from dozens of local restaurants and there are cooking demonstrations, music performances, children’s activities and an Oktoberfest Village. MISSOURI STATE HOMECOMING, OCT. 26-27: Alumni awards. A parade. Football, BearFest Village and a 5K walk/ run. Friends, reunions and more. You know the drill, and you know you will have fun! “THRILLER” ON C-STREET: Annual performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” by a flash mob on Commercial Street. Matinee show is kid-friendly; evening show is more scary. Exact date (near Halloween) and times to be posted on Facebook (search for “Thriller on C-Street”). WINGAPALOOZA, NOV. 3: The Sertoma Club of Springfield’s signature event pits restaurants against each other to determine southwest Missouri’s best place to get chicken wings.
JENNY: Home Grown Foods has all-local produce. Also mentioned: Dillons, MaMa Jeans Natural Market, Harter House, Hy-Vee
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Play COOL STUFF DOWNTOWN
CHRIS: Moxie Cinema. It’s a hidden gem if you’re into independent film or films that won’t go to mainstream theaters. JENNY: The Gillioz Theatre is bringing in lots of touring acts. It’s so fun to be in such a beautiful building and see a band that might not have come to Springfield even five years ago. There are also live bands at the Outland Ballroom or Lindberg’s. MELINDA: Springfield Little Theatre will have “Noises Off ” Oct. 26Nov. 4. That venue is another great gem for Springfield. Also mentioned: Springfield Pottery Studio, Hollywood Theatres-College Station Stadium 14, Big Whiskey’s, Halloween pub crawl
PARKS TO EXPLORE
SUSAN, MELINDA AND MATT: Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park! (Susan): I love the trails and the gardens, and I love that those gardens are all installed and maintained by volunteers. It’s got a lake, a Greenways trail, a butterfly house and 26 themed gardens. CHRIS: Phelps Grove. It’s in one of the prettiest areas of Springfield. We love taking our son there. There are beautiful old trees, and it’s next to the art museum. JENNY: Jordan Valley Park has K-Man (Kinetic Man, an interactive sculpture), large climbing toys and fountains. Little kids love to climb to the top of the hills there and roll down. It’s cheap fun! Also mentioned: Any Ozark Greenways trail, Founders Park, Lake Springfield, Sequiota Park, Valley Water Mill Park
TRAVEL WEBSITE, APP The Springfield Convention & Visitor’s Bureau has a site that lists tons of things to do, shopping venues, places to stay, places to eat and more. It also has a link to a smartphone app that can tell you what’s next to you — and if there are any coupons available.
springfieldadventures.com
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WHERE TO TAKE YOUNG CHILDREN
JENNY: Rutledge-Wilson is both a farm and a park. You can visit with barnyard animals, and in fall there is a pumpkin patch and hayrides. RICK: The Nature Center. You can walk the trails if the weather is good. In other weather, the kids can stay inside to stare out the windows of the visitors’ center and see the turkeys and deer. MATT: The Discovery Center. Our kids go there once every couple of weeks. They learn, but at the same time, they can run around and blow off steam. They love the bubble machine that can make a giant body-sized bubble. Also mentioned: Incredible Pizza, Dickerson Park Zoo, free story readings at any library branch, Jump Mania, Jumpin’ Joeys
WHERE TO TAKE TEENAGERS
RICK: 1984 arcade. My son loves it, and it takes me back to my youth. It’s $5 all-you-can-play old arcade games. JENNY: Fun Acre is old-school Springfield. It’s a mini golf place and has batting cages. SUSAN: Pythian Castle has ghost tours. JENNY: And all the haunted houses, like the Hotel of Terror, will be open around Homecoming. CHRIS: Movies at College Station or the independent Moxie Cinema. Also mentioned: Paint Games Plus, Lazer Force Lazer Tag Zone, Springfield 11 IMAX Theatre
FOR SPORTS LOVERS
NATASHA: I would tell people who haven’t been here in a while to tour JQH Arena. The Legacy of Competition display has athletics memorabilia that goes through all of the school’s history. RICK: The Springfield Cardinals team store at Hammons Field, where the Baseball Bears also play, is open during the fall. SUSAN: The Missouri Sports Hall of Fame is great year-round. You can see some displays of autographed memorabilia and play basketball, throw footballs or drive a NASCAR simulator. MATT: Rivercut (which is open to the public) is the best golf course in town for the money. Also mentioned: Visit Cooper Tennis Complex; skate or take in an Ice Bears hockey game at Mediacom Ice Park; buy a day pass to swim or workout at Chesterfield or Doling family centers; drop in for class at a local yoga studio
MUSEUMS TO TOUR
RICK: The Springfield Art Museum has neat pieces you might not know our community had. It’s a great way to spend a few hours. SUSAN: The History Museum for Springfield-Greene County. There’s something about seeing the place you live in the past. It puts Springfield in context. I like to look at old stuff. And it’s in a wonderful old building. JENNY: The Ozarks Afro American Heritage Museum in Ash Grove. Father Moses Berry gives the tour, and the pieces there are mostly from his family’s property. His artifacts date to slavery and the Underground Railroad. Also mentioned: Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield, Railroad Historical Museum
A FUN DRIVE
CHRIS: The diverging diamond interchanges (at the intersection of Interstate 44 and Missouri 13 and the intersection of U.S. 60 and National Avenue). Springfield was the first place in the U.S. to have them. When the first one opened by the zoo, my wife and I made a date night to drive through it multiple times. We thought: We are nerds!
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On campus 3 GREAT CAMPUS WALKS KING’S AVENUE PEDESTRIAN WALKWAY, LEADING PAST FOSTER RECREATION CENTER
CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS, FROM INTERACTIVE SCULPTURE TO UNIVERSITY SEAL
between Wells House and the PSU to see plaques commemorating the University’s past presidents.
LENGTH: About 1 mile
LENGTH: About 1.5 miles
START: At the visitor’s parking lot at the corner of National Avenue and Monroe Street.
START: Park in metered parking at Lot 22 or 24 off Grand Street (lots will be used for BearFest Village during home football games).
END: Walk past Carrington again, then continue past Pummill, Hill, Karls and Craig halls until you’re back to the underpass under Grand Street.
WALK: West toward Taylor Health and Wellness Center and the bookstore. If you want to stop to buy some BearWear at this point, we’ll wait for you. Done? Great! OK, keep west on Monroe, past Blair-Shannon. At Kings Avenue, turn left. You’ll be walking past the brandnew Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center, and you can see inside this amazing facility. Take your time; walk all around it if you want. Back on Kings Avenue, go south. Cross Madison Street and pass Freddy. Around the library, turn west toward the fountain. END: Linger at the fountain as long as you want then head back to the parking lot.
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WALK: Cross Grand using the underpass. Walk to the corner of Grand and National Avenue. There is a diagonal path that will take you past the EchoSphere sculpture by local artist Russ RuBert. The sculpture is interactive: You can sit in the four disks on the ground and spin around in them! When you’re done, walk toward the historic quad and Carrington Hall. Walk past the University seal in front of Carrington, where you can also get a view of the University’s cornerstone a bit closer to National Avenue, then circle Carrington until you get to the back. Walk west; you will pass Plaster Sports Complex, McDonald Arena, Meyer Library, Hammons Fountain and Temple Hall. You’ll see Glass Hall and Strong Hall in the near distance. At John Q. Hammons Parkway, turn north (right). Pass the recreation fields and the new Foster Recreation Center. At the corner of Hammons Parkway and Monroe Street, you’ll see JQH Arena. You can walk around inside the arena, checking out the athletics memorabilia on display. Back outside, turn right (east) on Monroe Street. Pass Greenwood Laboratory School’s new Science Scholars’ Laboratory. Turn right before reaching Woods House, heading toward Plaster Student Union. Walk the ivy-lined lane
DOWNTOWN, LEADING TO BRICK CITY GALLERY LENGTH: About .75 miles START: At Park Central Square. Missouri State has several staff offices here. A library branch, restaurants and coffee shops also line the square. WALK: North on Boonville Avenue, passing Olive and Water streets. Turn left on Mill Street. You’ll be in front of Brick City, a renovated downtown building that is now the home of the art and design department. Take a free tour of the Brick City Gallery, which features work by University students, faculty members and visiting artists. Regular hours are noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and by appointment. END: Exit on Mill Street and walk south on Boonville Avenue to return to the square.
BAND CONCERTS Missouri State’s band program comprises 18 bands, including the 300-member Pride Marching Band, five concert bands, five jazz bands, two basketball bands and five entertainment ensembles. Concerts are given throughout the year; most are free. Some fall performances: Jazz bands concert, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29, Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts A Musical Salute to our Veterans, 4 p.m. Nov. 11, Juanita K. Hammons Hall Sounds of Christmas, 2 p.m. Dec. 2, Juanita K. Hammons Hall See www.missouristate.edu/band/ for a calendar of events.
ART EXHIBITIONS BRICK CITY GALLERY: Sept. 7-Oct. 5: Show by Rafal Olbinski, Polish-born surrealist artist who has taught at the School of Visual Arts in New York and exhibited around the world More fall shows: See www.art. missouristate.edu
ELIZABETHAN CHRISTMAS DINNERS Ring in the holidays with a feast! The music department has held these dinners on campus for more than 45 years. University choral ensembles serenade and otherwise entertain diners, who are served a many-course meal in the style of 16th-century England. This year’s dinners will be held Nov. 29, 30 and Dec. 1 in Plaster Student Union Ballroom. Tickets are $28 for students, $33 for other attendees and $31 for those who buy tickets in groups of 10 or more. See www.missouristate.edu/music for more info.
ATHLETICS AND ACTIVITIES The following teams will have home events during September, October, November and December. Check www. missouristatebears.com for full schedules. Field hockey Men’s and women’s soccer Women’s volleyball Women’s cross-country Football (Homecoming is Oct. 27!) Swimming and diving Men’s and women’s basketball
STUDENT EXHIBITION CENTER: Rotating exhibits by Missouri State students and other University community members; see www.sec. missouristate.edu
STUDENT THEATRE AND DANCE There are several productions by the department of theatre and dance each semester; the public is welcome and tickets are generally less than $20. The department’s website will be updated as productions are set throughout the year: wwwtheatreanddance.missouristate.edu
BOWLING, BILLIARDS AND MORE Level 1 Game Center, in the lower level of Plaster Student Union, has bowling, billiards, table tennis, Wii and other video games, a snack bar and more. Visitors to campus are welcome to play in Level 1. For hours and rates: www.missouristate.edu/union/Level1.htm
CONCERTS, PLAYS AND MORE PURCHASE TICKETS: www.missouristatetix.com Jennifer Forni, operatic soprano, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2, Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts Monroeville bluegrass and acoustic country band, 8 p.m. Oct. 6, Juanita K. Hammons Hall “The Broadway Dolls,” a revue with everything from Broadway to pop/ rock (and MSU theatre alum Hollie Howard, the show’s creator!), 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23, Juanita K. Hammons Hall “Late Nite Catechism” comedic play, 8 p.m. Oct. 26, Juanita K. Hammons Hall Carrie Underwood, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 28, JQH Arena Shaolin Warriors martial-arts production, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4, Juanita K. Hammons Hall Straight No Chaser a cappella group, 8 p.m. Nov. 8, Juanita K. Hammons Hall Katie Armiger, country singer/ songwriter, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, Juanita K. Hammons Hall WinterFest Visual and Performing Arts Festival, times vary, Nov. 30Dec. 2, Juanita K. Hammons Hall “Cirque Dreams Holidaze” show with circus-style performances, Nov. 30-Dec. 1, Juanita K. Hammons Hall Les Brown Band of Renown big-band Christmas show, 2 p.m. Dec. 8, Juanita K. Hammons Hall
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CO R N E R S TO N E F R O M T H E F O U N D AT I O N
Greenwood dedicates new Science Scholars’ Laboratory donations totaling more than $2 million,” said Greenwood Director Janice Duncan. “We couldn’t have completed this much needed expansion without the generosity of our friends and donors.” The new 9,000 square foot science wing includes two study atriums, faculty
KEVIN WHITE
Greenwood Lab School dedicated its new Science Scholars’ Laboratory this spring with an unveiling of a unique donor wall that pays tribute to significant private support and two beloved faculty members. “This wing has been made possible by
Each year, Missouri State seniors are asked to participate in the Senior Class Gift Campaign by making a gift of $25. The Senior Class Gift Commission takes input from students about what they would like to give, then chooses, plans and markets the gift campaign. For 2011-12, the commission chose a project in the Aquatics Center of the new Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center. This senior class decided to leave a tile mosaic of the Missouri State Bear head logo in the pool. A plaque in the Aquatics Center will recognize the contribution of the 2012 class. In addition to supporting the Bear mosaic, $2 of each $25 gift is supporting the Emergency Scholarship Fund. This fund was first established to help students after the deadly May 2011 tornadoes in Joplin. However, it is continuing to assist students facing other unforeseen personal crises including the death of a legal guardian, a natural disaster or a fire. n
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KEVIN WHITE
2012 senior class gift beautifies Foster Recreation Center
offices and a large student atrium. In addition, two state-of-the-art lab/ classrooms were added and are named for influential science instructors in Greenwood history – Dr. Efton R. (Heavy) Henderson, who taught at Greenwood from 1926 to 1966, and Robert J. McLaren, who followed from 1966 and retired in 1991. “Generations of Greenwood graduates have become science and medical professionals,” said Duncan. “As an inquiry-based university laboratory school, our mission is to continue to pursue advanced educational techniques, especially in the area of science. With the addition of this facility and the remodeled original biology classroom and laboratory for elementary students, Greenwood and Missouri State can now offer an educational science atmosphere that is unique to this region.” n
An Ongoing Promise Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State University has met its initial goal thanks to supporters like you. But we’re not done yet. We’re in a final stretch that could put us over the top! Any commitment you make through Dec. 31, 2012 will still count toward the campaign. Every increase in the number of alumni who give back makes Missouri State stronger. Every gift, in every amount, counts. Just think what we can achieve together!
Missouri State University supporters are changing the world... One gift at a time. To make a gift: www.missouristatefoundation.org or 417-836-4143 To establish a planned gift to benefit Missouri State University or to make a gift of appreciated stocks or securities: www.missouristategiftplan.org or 417-836-4143
CO R N E R S TO N E F R O M T H E F O U N D AT I O N
KEVIN WHITE
More than 45 medallions awarded at Founders Club reception
Dr. Bruno Schmidt, second from left, a retired professor of physics and computer science and a former vice president of academic affairs at MSU, and his wife, Karen, were presented a bronze medallion by Interim President Clif Smart, left, and Foundation Board Chair Bill Hixon, right.
The Founders Club, Missouri State’s most prestigious organization for donors, held its annual medallion reception May 19 at Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts. Each year, medallions are awarded to Founders Club members whose cumulative giving has reached certain levels: Founders, Platinum, Sterling, President’s, Silver and Bronze. This year, 48 new medallions were awarded to alumni, friends, businesses and organizations in recognition of their contributions to the University. The event included a cocktail reception, entertainment and the presentation of medallions. “When I was a student, scholarships played a major role in allowing me to attend college, which resulted in many
lifelong friendships being made and providing me with the knowledge and skills to be able to carry out my long-time desire of being a teacher,” Dr. Bruno Schmidt said. He and his wife, Karen, received a bronze medallion for their support. “I want to help give the same opportunity to other students.” n
How to join If you’re interested in joining The Founders Club, contact the Missouri State University Foundation at Foundation@ missouristate.edu or 417-836-4143.
MSU Foundation celebrates fifth consecutive record-breaking year
JESSE SCHEVE
For the fifth year in a row, the Missouri State University Foundation set a new record for fundraising in Fiscal Year 2012. The $20,311,218 raised during FY12 topped the Foundation’s previous record of $16,698,481. “We are very gratified for the continued support of our alumni and friends,” said Missouri State Interim President Clif Smart. “The record numbers are impressive, but the significance lies in what the numbers
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allow us to provide: support for our students, faculty, programs and facilities. In today’s world of higher education, these private dollars mean more than ever to the success of the University.” With gifts from 23,792 donors, the Foundation was able to help achieve the University’s overall goals of increasing student access to higher education and recruiting and maintaining quality faculty members. “The Missouri State University Foundation continues to meet and exceed
all our expectations for fundraising in an environment of ‘do more with less,’” said Bill Hixon, Foundation board chair. “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend a sincere heartfelt thank you to our wonderful donors and to our goal oriented, hard working staff. The students of MSU greatly benefit from this record fundraising effort now and for years to come.” Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State University continues, having exceeded its $125 million goal well ahead of schedule. The campaign will strive to reach the $150 million mark by Dec. 31, 2012, the originally scheduled conclusion. n
Students lift numbers reading the $125 million goal during the August 2009 kickoff for Our Promise: The Campaign for Missouri State. Thanks to amazing support from alumni and friends, the University raised that amount by early 2012. The campaign continues until Dec. 31, 2012.
CONTINUE the TRADITION FATHER: Thomas Drain
HIS DEGREE: Computer Information Systems, 1987
JOB TITLE: Civilian Contractor, United States Navy
LIVES IN: Oxnard, Calif.
MOTHER: Darla Drain
HER DEGREE: Education, 1982
LIVES IN:
Thomas
Darla
Arwen
How do you feel about Arwen attending Missouri State? It broadens her perspective. She was raised in the Pacific Northwest, so she is experiencing a new and different part of the country.
How important is Arwen’s education to you? Education is my top priority for her. It advances you in your life, opens doors, and most of all, it can never be taken away. Thomas and I received good educations at Missouri State and are thankful for the Continue the Tradition program.
Why did you choose your major? I’ve always been interested in studying film. As a digital film production major, I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do, which is film editing.
Oxnard, Calif.
DAUGHTER: Arwen Drain
HER MAJOR: Digital Film Production
HOMETOWN: Everett, Wash.
Do you have a sense of security knowing that Arwen is at Missouri State? I have no problem with it. She has traveled in Europe, both with us and without us, and Springfield is one of the most secure places we can think of.
Do you think Arwen will have similar experiences at Missouri State to your own? Yes, I do. Thomas and I met our lifelong friends at Missouri State, and Arwen talks about her friends at Missouri State more and more all the time.
What do you plan to do after you graduate? I plan to travel and explore job opportunities, both here in the United States and abroad.
CONTINUE the TRADITION is an out-of-state fee waiver program for the children and grandchildren of Missouri State graduates. To qualify, students must be classified as nonresidents for fee purposes, must be enrolled full-time and must have at least one parent or grandparent who is a graduate of Missouri State. Learn more at www.alumni.missouristate.edu/ContinueTheTradition.htm/.
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CO N N E C T I O N S A LU M N I
MarooNation is Missouri State Alumni Association’s version of the ultimate road trip. By hosting events around the state and across the nation, the Alumni Association takes the spirit of maroon and white on the road to ensure alumni and friends stay informed, connected and involved with Missouri State University. Events are planned throughout the year.
[Wichita, Kan.] Alumni and friends warmed up April 20 at a pre-game gathering under the MarooNation Tent before the Baseball Bears took the field against the Wichita State Shockers at Eck Stadium. Jaime Bakker, ’02, with husband Lee and daughter Hannah, were among the fans who scored free T-shirts and soft drinks, and enjoyed cheering on the team alongside fellow Bears.
[Mid-Missouri] (Photo at right) Dr. Jerry Atwood, ’64, right, welcomed Angie McCroskey and other mid-Missouri-area alumni and friends into his home April 27 for a gathering. (Photo at far right) Alumni Kayla Crider, ’07, left, and Mike Chudy, ’99, with Kevin and Kristie Callaway, ’00, were among the guests who enjoyed an evening of networking.
[San Francisco, Calif.] Amy Henken, ’04, left, Charlie Reid and Anna Marie Presutti, ’86, were among the alumni and friends in the San Francisco area to visit with Interim President Clif Smart (right) during the Missouri State reception held April 21 at the Hotel Nikko-San Francisco.
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[West Plains] Alumni and friends in the West Plains area gathered for a “round-up” themed evening May 3 at the West Plains Civic Center. Tyler Huneycutt and Drake Mann, ’12, standing, along with Peyton Mann, left, Kayla DiiBon, Kathy Mann, ’06 & ’10, and Deanna DiiBon were among the guests at the event, which featured the presentations of the Outstanding Alumni Award and Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award.
Two alumni from the West Plains campus were given awards at the May 3 event. Dr. Scott Roush, ’92, second from left, was named the Outstanding Alumni Award honoree for his contributions to rural health care and the West Plains community. Dr. Connie O’Neal, ’73 & ’79, received the Distinguished Faculty/Staff Award in honor of her 22-year career as an educator at Missouri State-West Plains. Chancellor Drew Bennett, left, presented the awards. Also pictured is Interim President Clif Smart.
[Lebanon] (Photo above, left) Gib Adkins, ’79, left, along with Angie Adkins, Steve Jackson, ’88, and Angie Jackson were among the area alumni and friends gathered June 25 at the Kenneth E. Cowan Civic Center for the 29th Annual Alumni Night at Lebanon. The evening featured dinner and a silent auction benefiting the Lebanon Alumni Scholarship Fund. Prior to the evening gathering, a golf tournament, also benefiting the scholarship fund, was held at the Country Club. (Photo above) Interim President Clif Smart, far right, provided a University update. He is pictured with Jack Miller, ’73, left, Beverly Miller, ’73, and Gail Smart.
[St. Louis] Melissa Albart Coy, ’04 & ’06,
[Kansas City] Kelly Sallee, ’96, Angie Sallee, ’95, and their son, Drew, stepped up to the plate June 2 for Missouri State Alumni Day at Kauffman Stadium. The family was among a number of alumni and friends who enjoyed group seating and a fun day at the ballpark when the Kansas City Royals faced the Oakland Athletics.
Megan Coy, ’07, and Brad Coy, ’04 & ’06, rallied with more than 550 Bears to hit a grand slam by attending the Missouri State Alumni Day at Busch Stadium on June 16. They also had the opportunity to cheer on their team in the company of other Bears as they watched the St. Louis Cardinals take on the Kansas City Royals.
S E E T H I S O N L I N E E XC LU S I V E AT W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U
See more photos and find the next MarooNation event near you. M I S S O U R I S TAT E S P R I N G 2012
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Wave your MarooNation flag and be true to your school at these traditional Homecoming weekend events and more!
OCT. 26-27 STAND UP AND CHEER HOMECOMING DINNER AND AWARDS CEREMONY
MAROONATION’S BIGGEST AND BEST TAILGATE: BEARFEST VILLAGE
University Plaza Convention Center
Parking lots south of Plaster Sports Complex
Join us in honoring a loyal group of Bears who exemplify Missouri State and make us all proud.
BearFest Village is the capital of MarooNation where every heart bleeds maroon! This is THE place to reconnect with former classmates and attend gatherings hosted by student organizations and University departments while enjoying music, food, vendor booths, games and more. Be sure to visit the Alumni Association’s MarooNation Tent!
6 p.m. Oct. 26
MAROON MILES 5K WALK/RUN 7 a.m. Oct. 27
Race starts at Plaster Student Union Get on your maroon mark, ready, set, go …and sprint to the finish line to win medals, trophies and cash prizes.
BEARS UNITED HOMECOMING PARADE 9 a.m. Oct. 27
John Q. Hammons Parkway Find a seat to enjoy the procession of floats, bands and more in celebration of loyalty, tradition and the Missouri State way.
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9 a.m. Oct. 27
MAROON AND WHITE TOUCHDOWNS AND CROWNS FOOTBALL GAME
Visit www.missouristate.edu/ homecoming for complete information and services: The 2012 Homecoming app for your smartphone A list of gatherings hosted by colleges, campus departments, student organizations, Greek life and more Hotel listings Football ticket information Order your Homecoming T-shirt online Campus map Questions? Contact alumni@ missouristate.edu or 417-836-5654.
1 p.m. Oct. 27
Plaster Sports Complex Cheer the Football Bears to victory when they defend the Missouri State gridiron against the Western Illinois Leathernecks. Enjoy the Pride Marching Band and royalty coronation at halftime.
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Download the MSU Homecoming 2012 app for the latest information on schedules and events.
PHOTO BY DON STEPHENS, ‘62
Wall of Fame honors five for extraordinary service to Missouri State University
Kappa Alpha alumni reunite on campus Forty Kappa Alpha fraternity brothers from the classes of 1959-68 attended a weekend reunion event held April 27-29 in Springfield. The weekend included a stop at Meyer Alumni Center for continental breakfast and University updates from Vice President for University Advancement Brent Dunn, Athletics Director Kyle Moats and Professor Emeritus Duane G. Meyer. Next, they took a guided tour of Missouri State’s campus and visited the Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center while it was under construction. n
Five former Missouri State faculty and staff will be honored during the 2012 Wall of Fame induction ceremony in recognition of their work for the University. The 2012 class of inductees will be honored during a special ceremony held at 4 p.m. Oct. 26 in the Plaster Student Union as part of Homecoming festivities. The honorees represent 179 years of combined full-time service to Missouri State. The 2012 Wall of Fame Class includes: Dr. James Giglio, distinguished professor emeritus of history (1968-2006) Dr. Richard Myers, professor emeritus of biology (1972-2006) Dr. James O’Brien, distinguished professor emeritus of chemistry (1969-2002) Dr. Bruno Schmidt, professor emeritus of physics and vice president for academic affairs (1969-2005) Carol Silvey, associate professor emeritus of history and director of development on the West Plains campus (1968-2006)
Block party held to congratulate graduating international students International students were invited to a block party May 11 at Meyer Alumni Center with faculty and staff to celebrate their graduation from Missouri State. Yishuang Yang (left, China), Shirely Chen (China), Gabrel Tesema (Ethiopia), Nayan Chandra Das (Bangladesh), Pedro Vasquez (El Salvador) and Umida LinkedinAtazhahora Flickr (Kyrgyzstan) were among the students at the event, which included live entertainment, dancing, food, games and door prizes. The block party was sponsored by International Programs and the Alumni Association. n
Visit www.alumni.missouristate.edu/ walloffame.htm for details on each of the inductees. n
Like the Missouri State University Alumni Association on Facebook to iTunesU connect with other alums.
YouTub
alumni.missouristate.edu/facebook M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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Alumni Association hosts first international gatherings Three events in China are just the beginning of more efforts to reconnect with graduates around the globe.
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This spring, Missouri State University’s Alumni Association broadened its MarooNation travel circuit to include three alumni events in Qingdao, Dalian and Beijing, China. The gatherings, which had an average of 150 alumni and friends at each location, marked the first-ever international alumni events for Missouri State. “The alumni at the receptions came early and stayed late,” said Brent
Dunn, vice president for university advancement. “They were very energetic and very pleased that we held these events.” The broad turnout at the receptions parallels the success of Missouri State’s international programs. “When our international campus in Dalian, China, opened in the fall of 2000, it had 88 students,” said Steve Robinette, associate vice president of international programs. “In the fall of 2011, we had more than 800 students at our Dalian
campus and another 1,300 international students at our Missouri State campuses in the U.S.” The goal of the Alumni Association is to provide opportunities for alumni to stay in touch, informed and involved, so the association is exploring more ways to foster relationships with its international members. “This was really exciting for us,” said Julie Ebersold, executive director of alumni relations. “As more international students graduate from Missouri State,
Photos, from left: Dr. David Meinert (center), associate dean for the College of Business, reconnected with former students at the alumni reception in Beijing, China. Alumni from the Dalian, China, region gathered for a photo. An average of 150 alumni and friends attended each of the three receptions. Interim President Clif Smart presented a diploma during the Dalian campus commencement ceremony.
our need to serve our international alumni increases. Our alumni abroad are just as important as our alumni here in the United States.” These events are just the beginning. “Our Alumni Association is branching out worldwide,” Dunn said. “Missouri State now has more than 100,000 alumni in 80 countries. We are already planning more alumni events in China next year, and someday we will have alumni events all over the world.” n
Photos, from left: Alumni and friends from the Beijing municipality gathered May 27 at the Jianguo Hotel for a reception and update on Missouri State happenings. MSU students in the William T. White String Quartet performed during each of the alumni receptions. Members of the Springfield campus delegation met with members of the Qingdao University administration. Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement, right, handed out prizes during the reception in Dalian, which was held at the Liaoning Normal University International Exchange Center.
ARE YOU A GRADUATE LIVING OUTSIDE THE U.S.? We’d love to hear from you! As soon as we know where you are, we can start giving you all the benefits received by international Missouri State graduates. Here’s how:
Go to www.alumni.missouristate.edu to update your contact information and tell us about your career and professional accomplishments; or Email us at alumni@missouristate.edu/.
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ClassNotes SUSAN LaBARR PAGE 33
1953
Richard Nichols, BSE, Springfield, was the Missouri recipient of the Salute to Senior Service award by Home Instead Senior Care, honoring his volunteerism. Nichols was selected from about 1,500 people nationwide nominated for the award.
1958 COURTNEY WENDEL PAGE 34
LaMond (Rick) Chudomelka, BSE, Beebe, Ark., was inducted into the International Educational Theatre Association’s Hall of Fame at the annual conference in Chicago in September 2011. The award recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions to theatre education.
1978
Living Water Academy in Wildwood, Mo., named Thomas (Tom) Keller, BSE, as Head of School. Keller is a 33-year veteran principal, human resources coordinator and teacher in the Rockwood and Washington School Districts. He resides in Washington, Mo.
1980
Herman Johansen, BFA, Kansas City, Mo., was featured in a May 2012 staged reading of the comedy ”Morning’s at Seven,“ held at the Kansas City Irish Center. The reading was part of the Martin Tanner Tuesday series produced by Johansen under
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the banner of his Martin Tanner Productions, which includes the work of area playwrights and features local professional actors in an intimate setting.
1981
Dr. Terrence Bishop, BS, DeKalb, Ill., received the Northern Illinois University’s Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award. Bishop, who has taught at NIU since 1987, is a professor in the department of management.
1982
Jodi McCullah, BA, Pleasant View, Tenn., received a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University Divinity School in 2007. She serves as campus minister at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tenn. McCullah also is the founder and director of Lazarus Project/SAFE (Soldiers and Families Embraced), which offers free counseling and support services for military and families connected with Fort Campbell, Ky.
1983
Dawn Jackson Davidson, BS, Bixby, Okla., was promoted to bursar at Tulsa Community College in Tulsa, Okla.
1985
Patrick Eddington, BS, Annandale, Va., published the 2011 book “Long Strange Journey: An Intelligence Memoir,” regarding his tenure at the Central Intelligence Agency.
1989
Lon Flippo, MA, Carmel, Ind., was awarded a Doctor of Ministry during the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary May commencement ceremony in Springfield.
1990
Scott Leigh, BS, Kansas City, Mo., released the movie “If You Knew the Gift” in May. The story focuses on a Missouri wood carver who travels to Haiti to start a clean-water project, and the life of a Haitian woman he meets there. The movie relates that sometimes the gift we receive is far greater than any gift we could give. Leigh traveled to Springfield in June to present the movie to the Missouri Conference of the United Methodists. It is also available on YouTube.
1992
J. Brian Hoover, BA, Springfield, is owner of Hoover Music Co. in Springfield. A family business, the music store celebrated 100 years in March 2012. Attorney Christiaan D. Horton, BS, has joined Carnahan, Evans, Cantwell & Brown, P.C.’s Transactional and Litigation/ Dispute resolution practice groups. Horton resides in Springfield. Amy Swearingin Vangorden, BS & MA, ’92 & ’94, Ozark, Mo., was named Teacher of the Year
CAITLIN DENMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
2004 & 2007
Susan LaBarr spends her days making music, a love she discovered as a student at Missouri State University. “I credit my experience and growth at Missouri State for the reason I am where I am today. Many of my music professors, including Dr. Guy Webb (choral music), Dr. John Prescott (composition) and Dr. Peter Collins (piano) greatly influenced my learning and led me on the path to finding my passions and talents.” LaBarr is sharing those passions and talents with others through her work as the choral editor for Choristers Guild, a music
for Nixa Public Schools, where she is employed as a speech-language pathologist.
1993
Nelson Flowers, BS, Springfield, is working as a crew member on his fourth independent film, “PMS Cop the Movie,” which is being produced in Springfield. Shannah Alloway Hayley, BS & MA, ’93 & ’95, Plano, Texas, is marketing director and senior associate for Urban Design Group. Hayley was inducted into the Dallas Marketing Hall of Fame this past February at the annual Society for Marketing Professional Services Dallas Awards Gala. Madawn Miller Traxel, BSE, Poplar Bluff, Mo., is coordinator and instructor of teacher
publication company, in Dallas, Texas. Recently, LaBarr was named Missouri Composer Laureate for 2012 and 2013 by the Missouri Verses and Voices organization. “It has been a great honor to be the Missouri Composer Laureate. I am extremely proud to be a Missourian, so it has been a great privilege to represent my home state in this way. This experience has exposed my music to a lot of people who might not have heard it otherwise.” Along with the commissions LaBarr receives to create pieces for choirs across the country, she often creates pieces for Missouri State’s Concert Chorale. “The Concert Chorale is an extremely skilled choir that sings with a huge amount of emotion. Because of this, I can write anything for them, which allows me to be my most creative. I’ll be writing a new piece for the Concert Chorale this fall, using poetry by Missouri-born poet, Eugene Field.” LaBarr still remembers her first composition performed by the Concert Chorale: “I’ll never forget how wonderful it was to hear the Concert Chorale sing through my arrangement of ‘You Cannot
education at Three Rivers College. At the recent Three Rivers ACE Awards Banquet, Traxel was recognized for five years of service, nominated for the Community Impact Award and selected to receive the Student Engagement Award and Innovative Teaching Award.
1994
Stephen Clark, BS, Ballwin, Mo., is the fitness supervisor for the Webster Groves Parks and Recreation Department. Clark was presented with the Associate Fellow Award by the Missouri Park and Recreation Association at its annual conference.
1995
The book “SAT & BAF! Memories of a Tower Rat,” written by Douglas Depew, BSE, Fair Play, Mo., won
Lose My Love’ for the first time in 2006. Not only did it sound beautiful, but the expression from the choir and from Dr. Webb was unmatched.” The Concert Chorale holds a special place in LaBarr’s heart. Participating with this group in college led her to meet her husband, Cameron, now an associate professor of music at Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. “We traveled together with the choir to France, The Netherlands, Germany, Los Angeles, Boston and New York City during our time at Missouri State. These were rich musical experiences that helped to shape our relationship.” Because of the support the LaBarrs received as students, they remain connected to the University. “We were able to become the people and musicians that we are today because of all that we experienced as students. Those experiences were made possible by the amazing people who continue to give to the University. It is now our chance to give back, and to help to give other students the same experiences that we had.” n
second place in Reader Views Literary Contest in the History/ Science category in March. Dr. Nathan Means, BS, Columbia, Mo., is associate professor of biology at Columbia College. Means was awarded the 2012 Columbia College Trustees Award for Teaching Excellence, which honors a faculty member who has demonstrated consistent excellence in the classroom and teaches rigorous classes with high academic expectations.
1996
Steven Skodak, BS, St. Charles, Mo., accepted a position as executive director at Optimist International Foundation in St. Louis. Skodak was formerly executive director at Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America. M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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2010 & 2011
When Courtney Wendel was on campus, she was just the kind of student you root for. Unless, of course, you can’t stand overachievers. If that’s the case, you probably should skip this story. “Everybody likes Courtney — she’s just one of those people everybody gets along with because she’s so genuine,” said Jerri Lynn Kyle, an instructor in the communication department who was one of Wendel’s favorite teachers. “I first had her in public speaking class and just thought she was the sweetest young lady.” Courtney loves Missouri State. When she was in high school in Barnard, Mo., (preparing to be valedictorian — if you know her, you’re saying “of course”), she
knew MSU was the only college to which she wanted to apply. She got a scholarship and made the most of her time here. As an undergrad she was in Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, Student Government Association, University Ambassadors and Campus Crusade for Christ, to name a few of her many activities. She held leadership roles in many of those groups (if you know her, you’re saying “of course”), and was even awarded Most Involved Member a few times by her sorority. “I just enjoy being a part of things that I think will benefit or help other people,” Wendel said. “I like to work for change.” She did all these activities yet graduated summa cum laude with honors in 2010, earning a degree in public relations with minors in sociology and journalism. Courtney talks fast and thinks fast, so it makes sense that she got a job fast — even before marching to receive her master’s degree in communication, which she did in December 2011. She is now the marketing manager for Springfield Symphony Orchestra. She manages all media relations, promotes special events, does graphic design for publications, oversees online content and works at each concert.
1997
Don’t miss out Make sure you don’t miss an alumni event in your area, the monthly newsletter or updates from your alma mater. Send your email address to alumni@missouristate.edu or visit alumni.missouristate.edu to update your address, and we’ll ensure you receive regular announcements that are only available online.
Bradley Hadley, MS, Birch Tree, Mo., is a conservation agent for Shannon County, Mo. Hadley also works with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Missouri Bear Project. The goal of the project is to estimate the state’s black bear population, as well as study their preferred habitat and habits. Scott Sutton, BS, Reston, Va., was awarded the Department of the Army Commander’s Award for Civilian Service medal for exceptionally meritorious service rendered during his tenure working for the Army.
1998
Rachel Mark Dwiggins, BS, a member of the BKD National 34
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“I love working for the Symphony; it’s a special art form that enriches the community in a unique way.” She wants to bring her view of public relations — which focuses on ethics and transparency — to the community group. “Public relations is important, even though it’s difficult to quantify a P.R. person in terms of ‘return on investment.’ It’s more about building connections. “Your business or group may offer the best programming or product in the world, but if no one knows about it, that won’t do you any good. P.R. professionals tell people why your organization exists and why it benefits them.” Now that she’s officially in the real world with a job, a fiance, tons of friends and a cat, Courtney keeps up with her alma mater by going to basketball games, contributing to development campaigns and participating in alumni events. As a recent graduate, she knows how much students appreciate alumni who stay involved. “My one message to alumni would be: Come back to talk to current students and tell your story. Students are dreaming of the career you have and would be excited to hear how you got there. You can make their lives brighter.” n
Not-for-Profit and Government Group, was promoted to partner. Dwiggins resides in Nixa, Mo. Stacy Brady, BS, and Mark Taylor, BS, ’96, were united in marriage April 28 in Lenexa, Kan. The couple resides in Gladstone, Mo. Joel Wealer, BMUS, Hannibal, Mo., is a hornist in the U.S. Air Force Band.
1999
Cory Collins, BS, was named to Springfield Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2012, which honors area leaders younger than age 40 for their accomplishments as business and community leaders. Collins is a business litigation partner
with Husch Blackwell, LLP in Springfield. Nathan Tysen, BFA, Brooklyn, N.Y., wrote the lyrics and music for “That’s Why I Go Green.” Last fall, the 14th Street Y conducted a Green Song Contest, asking New York City kids to submit lyrics for a verse to the song. The winner starred in the music video along with Tysen. It is available on YouTube.
2000
Christina Yoakum, BS & MACC, ’00 & ’01, Springfield, was promoted to senior manager at BKD, LLP. Yoakum is a member of the BKD National Health Care Group and provides audit and consulting services on financial and operational issues to community health centers.
2001
Ryan Bell, BS, and his brother, David Bell, BS, ’06, are president and marketing/sales manager, respectively, of Gremln, a social media marketing tool kit that helps individuals and businesses track their social media efforts. Started in 2005, Gremln has a global presence of more than 100,000 users. This spring the brothers and their business were featured by KOLR10. Regina Runyan Sirois, BA, is author of the book “On Little Wings.” Sirois was selected as the recipient of the 2012 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award in the Young Adult Fiction category. Her husband, Justin Sirois, BS, ’02, an independent VFX artist and animator, completed the graphic design and photography for the book’s cover.
2004
Scott Callicott, MS, is communications strategist for State Farm Insurance CEO Ed Rust Jr. Callicott serves as Rust’s speechwriter and handles communications for Rust’s role as incoming chairperson of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Board. Callicott also continues his duties as team lead for the Issues Management Team in State Farm’s Public Affairs Department. Callicott, his wife, Tammy, and their two boys reside in Normal, Ill. Justin McClelland, BS, Champaign, Ill., rode his bicycle solo from New York City to Los Angeles in August. Proceeds from his ride will benefit the American Heart Association.
2002
2005
Michael Shaun Moreland, MA, Springfield, received his Master of Divinity in In-Service degree during the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary commencement ceremony in May.
Jamie Evangelista Hall, BA, published her first novel, “How I Found Myself Naked in the Footlights,” on Amazon. The novel is a light-hearted tale of a young man who, perplexed by his mother’s final cryptic message, journeys to a quaint English village to find his long-lost father. Hall resides in Springfield.
Melanie Merrill Hurley, BSE, Cassville, Mo., is founder of Piggy Paint, a nontoxic nail polish now sold all around the world. Hurley was inspired by her two young daughters to create a safe alternative to solvent-based polishes.
2003
Shanna Brooks, BS & MPH, ’03 & ’05, Omaha, Neb., received a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in May. In addition, she is the recipient of the National Health Service Corps Scholarship. Brooks began her internal medicine residency at the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha this summer.
Lisa Gilbert, BS, Dallas, Texas, completed her residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita Family Medicine Residency Program at the Via Christi Regional Medical Center in Wichita, Kan.
2006
Greg Lovely, BS, San Jose, Calif., and his wife, Heather, established a personal training company, Just Lovely Training, with a focus on student athletes. Lovely, a former professional football player, serves as fitness manager.
Joseph Robertson, BS, St. Louis, Mo., accepted a position at Bryan Cave, LLP located in St. Louis as an associate in the Real Estate and Banking groups. Robertson was formerly employed as an associate at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, LLP in New York, where he had a broad real estate development and financing practice. Adam Showalter, BSE, is living in Abu Dhabi while teaching English there. Showalter is also creating music and pursuing his master’s with Missouri State.
2007
Sean Cain, BS & MS, ’07 & ’09, was a $26,000 winner on CBS’s “Let’s Make a Deal.” Cain resides in Los Angeles, Calif. Former television editor and young cancer survivor Thomas Rennier, BS, St. Charles, Mo., directed his first full-length feature film, “Lionhead.” The film tells the humorous story of a leading man who seems to allow the world to use him as a doormat and follows the metamorphosis of its main character. Rennier joined forces with fellow Missouri State graduate Rachel Skidmore, BS, ’08, Los Angeles, Calif., who was the film’s producer.
2008
Windy Nicholson, MS, Alpharetta, Ga., is senior technology manager at WellPoint, Inc. Nicholson was honored for her work with the Women in Technology organization in Atlanta.
2009
Kristen Clasquin, BA, O’Fallon, Mo., received her Master of Arts in Counseling during the May Assemblies of God Theological Seminary commencement. continued on page 37
Share your good news Go to www.alumni.missouristate. edu and select the “Class Notes” link. You may update your alumni record and drop us a line about your most recent personal and professional accomplishments. You also may write us at: Missouri State University Alumni Association Attention: Julie Ebersold 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897
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In Memoriam 1930s
Fern Little Denton, ’36 Dallas, Texas Marshall V. Jamison, ’37 Reedville, Va. Dollie K. Jones Bittenbender, ’38 Lawrence, Kan. Louella Jared Duvall, ’38 Butler, Mo. A. Bent Agee, ’39 Springfield
1940s
Elizabeth P. McDaniel Charlton, ’40 Carthage, Mo. Lillian F. Matthews McGill, ’40 Walnut Grove, Mo. David E. Bear, ’41 Godfrey, Ill. Josephine C. Ewan Clark, ’41 Nevada, Mo. Berniece E. Williams Danna, ’41 Valley Park, Mo. Norman K. Forrester, ’41 Springfield Beulah M. Nichols Rodgers, ’41 Springfield Dorothy L. Davis Neal, ’42 Nixa, Mo. Mary E. Slusser Blalock, ’45 Monett, Mo. Dorthy D. Siegismund Heiserman, ’45 Appleton City, Mo. Virginia A. Schreiber Hamlin, ’48 Springfield Victor L. Van Hook, ’48 Stillwater, Okla. Jack J. Engleman, ’49 Springfield James L. Long, ’49 Brighton, Ill. Mary C. Weaver Sweeney, ’49 Springfield
1950s
Ida K. Brown Cox, ’50 Springfield Kathryn R. Misemer Golding, ’50 Marionville, Mo. Jane Elsey McCool, ’50 Marionville, Mo. Harley S. Rantz, ’50 Branson, Mo. Marilee Marrs Howell, ’51 Columbia, Mo.
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Robert H. Kula, ’51 Colorado Springs, Colo. Cecil L. Thornton, ’51 West Plains, Mo. Powell F. Edge, ’52 Palm Springs, Calif. Andrew B. Brundige Sr., ’53 New Braunfels, Texas E. F. Gann, ’53 Protem, Mo. Maty M. Godsy Kentch, ’53 Creston, Iowa Robert L. Ayres, ’54 Caney, Kan. John C. Brown, ’54 Springfield Mary E. VanDerhoef Drummy, ’54 Monett, Mo. Mildred Moberly Satterfield, ’54 Spring Hill, Fla. Mary A. Rice Simpson, ’54 Mount Vernon, Mo. James H. Baysinger, ’55 Nixa, Mo. Mary A. Perdue Caplinger, ’55 Jefferson City, Mo. E. Dennis O’Neill, ’55 St. Louis, Mo. Patricia E. Anderson, ’56 Bend, Ore. Clifford L. Browne Jr., ’56 Lee’s Summit, Mo. Louise Atwood, ’57 Getzville, N.Y. Fred M. Stephens, ’57 Chillicothe, Mo. John T. Young, ’57 Elk Creek, Mo. Larry N. Brown, ’58 Tallahassee, Fla. Joe W. Criswell, ’59 Gulf Breeze, Fla.
1960s
Donald J. Bassore, ’60 Marionville, Mo. Sidney K. Bradley, ’61 Fair Grove, Mo. Gretchen L. Boyd Cameron, ’61 Purdy, Mo. Bobby “Bob” D. Burks, ’62 Springfield Anna M. King, ’62 Marshfield, Mo. Darrol J. Unruh, ’62 Fredericktown, Mo.
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William P. Dunlap, ’63 Bethesda, Md. Gladys S. Jost, ’63 Cuba, Mo. Robert J. Ditmeyer, ’64 Salem, Mo. Sandra L. Sorbo, ’66 Springfield Randolph J. Coggin, ’69 Springfield James M. “Mike” Donnelly, ’69 Fayette, Mo.
1970s
William M. Garrison, ’71 Myrtle, Mo. Kathleen E. Douglas, ’72 Grand Rapids, Mich. Margaret J. Libertus, ’72 Gainesville, Fla. Raymond W. Roedder, ’73 Bolivar, Mo. Keith A. Summers, ’76 Springfield Sharon K. Wehmhoener, ’76 Bates City, Mo. William K. Carter, ’77 Dallas, Texas Stephen L. Timme, ’77 & ’82 Bella Vista, Ark. Charles T. Clement, ’78 Anniston, Ala. Douglas L. Bowman, ’79 Bettendorf, Iowa
1980s
Richard A. Patterson, ’81 Springfield Holly L. Bowlin, ’82 Springfield Joyce E. Dustman, ’82 Pleasant Hill, Mo. Cora tenZythoff Latta, ’82 Fort Worth, Texas Savila J. Roslev, ’82 Apple Valley, Calif. Alice L. Hudson Cope, ’83 Neosho, Mo. Alex Papagianis, ’83 Ellisville, Mo. Barbara A. Scheperle Walter, ’83 Springfield Tammy S. Taylor Heyman, ’84 Beavercreek, Ohio Mary S. Chestnut, ’85 West Plains, Mo.
Tracy J. Talbert, ’85 Springfield Todd A. Baker, ’87 Maryland Heights, Mo. Blanche L. Priddy Knight, ’88 Springfield Shannon K. Terry Smith, ’88, ’00 & ’02 Springfield
1990s
Tim L. Hardin, ’91 Forsyth, Mo. Douglas R. Ault, ’96 St. Louis, Mo. Melba J. Brown Sexton, ’96 Bonne Terre, Mo. Rhonda L. McHale Moore, ’97 & ’00 Springfield
2000s
Crystal D. Brazier Cross, ’04 Valdosta, Ga. Candi M. Claymon Roberts Fenwick, ’08 West Plains, Mo. Nathaniel E. S. Deniz, ’11 Kansas City, Mo.
Faculty/Staff
Georgia Housel Brunner, staff emeritus Springfield Henry A. Gerwert, staff emeritus Springfield S. Michael Groomer, faculty Springfield Mary N. Harper, retired staff Springfield Clifford E. Harralson, ’50, former staff Springfield Mark D. Lawson, former staff Springfield Clarence L. Logan, ’53, retired staff Springfield George W. Shirley, former faculty Springfield Robert L. Taylor, ’76 & ’87, faculty Springfield
By Don Payton
As I think about it, the first advisor I had as a student at then-SMS was a young lady named Cora. Cora resided on the third floor of our rooming house on Normal Street. Like other “older and wiser” residents of this and adjacent houses, she seemingly knew a little bit about everything — such as popular places to eat, drink and make merry; where to go to escape the mounting rigors of academia; where to go and what to do on dates; and where others of your incline were likely to hang out. Cora didn’t attend SMS, although she probably did at one time. Instead, like so many others living in the area surrounding the 40-acre campus, she rented a room on a weekly basis and worked nearby or downtown. Cora came to mind recently when an alum from the 1950s asked if the Cat and the Fiddle eatery still existed on south
2010
Neil Dazet, MS, Columbia, Mo., completed a second master’s degree in library science at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Dazet accepted a position as science librarian at the City University of New York’s Brooklyn College Library, a tenure-track faculty position with the title of assistant professor.
Glenstone Avenue. No, the fiddling cat on the colorful neon sign fiddled his finale some years back. In response to other questions, I had to inform the alum that the Shady Inn no longer exists, nor does Hamby’s, the Pig ’n Bun, Half-aHill, Dent’s, The Italian Villa, Coleys, the Garden Room in the Kentwood, the El-Var Tea Room and on and on. Casper’s, a popular favorite of the time, still exists. It has moved from Glenstone to west Walnut Street, but yes, Casper’s famous chili still oozes over the top and down the sides of the bowl. Cora, of course, was familiar with all of these eateries. Her pick was the Shady Inn. It was that special place for a really important date, she pointed out. If you really want to impress her, she stressed, “order the sirloin for two.” Her favorite place to watch a movie was the Mozark Theater on the southwest corner of the Public Square. For a 15-cent ticket you could always sit through a double feature (second- or third-run), and yes, you could even sit through both features two or three times. Springfield, at the time, had plenty of other movie houses. Downtown were the Electric, Gillioz and the Landers theaters, while the Mulliken and the Granada were on the north side of town. Yes, there was plenty to do off-campus. Bowling, billiards, skating, Doling Park, Phelps Grove Park, Fassnight Park, Brebner Walker’s popular dance studio and on and on. All were favorites. Most importantly, Cora advised, “Find your place to hang out, especially in the evenings.” She once dated an SMS student whose favorite meeting place
2011
Jacob Boxberger, BS, Greenfield, Mo., was admitted to medical school at Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences. Rachel Detwiler, BS, Springfield, is physician liaison for Springfield Inpatient Physicians at Cox Health.
was the Music Bungalow. If you attended SMS before the 1960s, you’re familiar with the Music Bungalow. A former residence, it was located south and east of the “A” Building at the site of what is now Pummill Hall. It was as popular with the music students as the Home Ec House on National Avenue was to the home economics students. As for me, favored out-of-class hangouts were the Standard and Ozarko offices located near the south entrance of the “A” Building auditorium. Cora was right. Those small offices became almost a home-away-from home for me. There were many favored student spots — the fieldhouse, the north and south libraries, the student lounge in the “A” Building, the College Inn and on and on. There was even a regular meeting place for many “under the clock” on the main floor of the “A” Building. And then there’s the most popular of all off-campus spots: the College Inn. Cora warned against eating chili at the C.I. on consecutive days. If you eat chili at the C.I. on Monday night, she advised you eat chili at the Just Rite Cafe on Tuesday, at the Hav-a Cup on Wednesday and at Charlie Riley’s Varsity Drug on Thursday. “Remember, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet,” she said. Alas, none of those eateries is still in existence. Come to think of it, probably few of those who followed her dietary advice are either. n
Don Payton, ’50, is former information services director at Missouri State University. Now retired, Payton continues to write for the University and area publications. Send him messages at Don_Payton@missouristatealumni.org.
DeVon Douglass, BS, was selected by law firm Crowe & Dunlevy as the first recipient of its minority scholarship. Douglass is a student at the University of Tulsa College of Law.
2012
Summer Rascoll, BS, Springfield, accepted a position as weekend producer at KOZL. n M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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things alumni need to know about the Foster Recreation Center The name: The Bill R. Foster and Family Recreation Center (FRC, for short) is named for Bill R. Foster and his family. Bill Foster is a businessman with a lifelong commitment to health care. A major gift commitment from the Foster family led to the naming of the facility in October 2011.
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It’s now open! The FRC had a grand-opening celebration in August, and a formal dedication will be Oct. 26 — come tour the center that day!
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Features: Campus Recreation manages the FRC. Campus Recreation has the following programs: Aquatics, Fitness, Intramural Sports, Outdoor Adventures and Wellness. Each program has a presence in the FRC. The FRC has a recreational pool with lots of fun features, a spa, sauna, indoor jogging track, cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, rock-climbing and bouldering walls, basketball and volleyball courts, studios for dancing or fitness classes and much more. The FRC has “green” features, fulfilling LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) silver certification for the building.
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Student involvement: The FRC came about mainly due to requests from students. Therefore, the FRC focuses primarily on the needs of students, and students were involved in almost every phase of its design. The FRC will be a strong tool for recruiting prospective students and has created more than 100 student jobs.
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W W W. M AG A Z I N E . M I S S O U R I S TAT E . E D U
History: In 2004, students gathered more than 10,000 signatures to request a feasibility study for a recreation center. A study was done between 2005-06. In 2006, students voted to place a fee on themselves starting in fall 2007; it would largely pay for a center. In 2006, it appeared McDonald Arena might be renovated to become the center. In 2008-09, it became clear renovating McDonald Arena was not an option. In March 2009, a site for a brand-new facility was chosen. A ground-breaking was held in late April 2010 and construction began in May. The FRC was expected to be open in fall 2011 but was delayed due to weather and the Joplin tornado of May 22, 2011 (steel from a supplier there, intended for the center, was lost in the storm).
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Alumni memberships: Former students who paid for the FRC — who were enrolled on the Springfield campus between fall 2007 and spring 2012 and paid fees toward the FRC — will receive credits toward memberships. Other active alumni (Missouri State graduates who make a minimum qualifying annual gift of $25) are eligible to purchase memberships for themselves and one household member older than 18. For specifics on membership credits or rates, contact Campus Recreation by email or phone.
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One-day passes: Guests and nonmembers may purchase day passes to the FRC. Guests not affiliated with Missouri State University must be accompanied by a current FRC member to enter the FRC. There are different passes for different activities, and prices vary.
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Hours: The FRC is open every day of the week. Hours for the Aquatic Center and climbing wall vary. Typical hours: Monday-Thursday, 6 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday, 6 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday, Noon-11 p.m. For specifics about hours during summer, holidays, University breaks, family hours and inclement weather, contact Campus Recreation by email or phone.
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Additional services: Campus Recreation provides services such as renting the FRC for parties or other events, giving tours of the facility, checking out sports and outdoors equipment, providing locker rental or towel service and hosting lectures or presentations. Some services may have additional costs. For more information, see the Campus Recreation website or call the FRC.
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Contact information Phone: 417-836-5334 Web: www.missouristate.edu/recreation Email: campusrecreation@ missouristate.edu
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P U B L I C A F FA I R S E S S AY
Alumnus wants to preserve state’s natural resources
COURTESY FRANCIS SKALICKY
If you grow up in southwest Missouri, it’s almost inherent that you have some appreciation for our natural world. Granted, since I was raised on a dairy farm that also featured 100-plus chickens, most creatures I saw in my youth were domestic animals — not wild ones. However, even on a work schedule that featured milking duties twice a day and numerous farm-related chores Francis Skalicky graduated in between, I still had moments to notice the in 1984 with a bachelor’s black snake that slithered into the post pile, the degree in electronic media occasional deer that grazed in the pasture, the communications. The Bolivar box turtle ambling along the edge of the garden native is currently the southwest regional media and the coyotes that yipped in the evenings… and specialist for the Missouri wonder how they all fit together. Department of Conservation. These days, as the southwest regional media specialist for the Missouri Department of Conservation, I get opportunities to explain these nature connections to How alumni can others, and to learn more connect to nature about them myself. One Attend a program at your local thing I’ve discovered in conservation area or outdoor my 16 years with the MDC education center. In the Ozarks, is that nature never stops for example, check out programs at teaching us new things. The the Springfield Conservation Nature more we understand about Center. Programs coming up let the outdoor world, the more you and your family explore creeks, we realize there are areas watch birds, fight tree pests, learn yet to be understood and about medicinal or edible plants the more we’re in awe of the or pick up skills such as fly-fishing, natural resources we have. nature photography or building fires It’s clear many of our without matches. state residents understand this. There’s a reason Look for day-hike opportunities. Missouri has one of the Try to find the trails “less taken” (to highest annual hunting paraphrase Robert Frost). The less harvests of deer and turkey human traffic a trail has, the greater in the U.S., yet our state’s nature-viewing potential it may have. deer and turkey numbers Begin feeding birds. The more are estimated to be higher you watch birds, the more you’ll want than in pre-settlement to learn about the different species times. There’s a reason our and their habitats. lakes and streams are known Get outside as often as possible! as being great places to catch fish. It’s because Missourians — Francis Skalicky care about conserving forests, fish and wildlife.
Public affairs tenet:
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
“Community engagement is recognizing needs in the communities within which one belongs, then contributing knowledge and working with the community to meet those needs.” — Missouri State University’s public affairs website
There are benefits to wise conservation. It’s estimated hunters spend more than $2 billion in the state each year. Fishing activities also contribute more than $2 billion to the state’s economy annually. Missouri forests that were in severe decline in the early 1900s contribute more than $3 billion annually to our economy today. Yet amid this abundance is the need for vigilance. Move from the positive monetary figures and you’ll find these numbers: Sixty-six percent of Missouri’s streams are considered to be at risk of severe pollution and, in some cases, destruction. That’s worrisome considering more than 62 percent of Missourians receive their drinking water from river and stream sources. A 1 percent loss of a watershed’s wetland areas can increase that watershed’s flood volume by 7 percent. That is eyebrow-raising when you consider 35 percent of Missouri’s remaining wetland areas are considered to be at increased risk. These are a few of numerous reasons — both positive and negative — why conservation will always matter. They’re also reasons that make me realize I’m putting my Missouri State education to good use — even if this is not the career I envisioned as a college freshman. You see, when I entered then-Southwest Missouri State University in the fall of 1980, I had ambitions of being a sports announcer. Thanks to the guidance I received at the University and the professional choices I made after graduation, I am now describing strategies of an endeavor where the stakes are much higher than any sporting event and the rewards for succeeding are much greater. n M I S S O U R I S TAT E FA L L 2012
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O F F I C E O F A L U M N I R E L AT I O N S 901 S. National Ave. Springfield, MO 65897
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