Central Methodist University
Success Appears In Many Forms On The Colorful CMU Campus
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his has been an amazing fall on campus and around Fayette. There is a heightened level of excitement that can be felt easier than it can be described. New students arrived in record numbers and last year’s students returned in record numbers. The reimagined Stedman Hall of Science is poised to provide life-changing opportunities for our STEM majors. The rollout of Digital U created an energy on campus that we haven’t witnessed before. Even the campus trees have gotten into the act; the colors this fall have been spectacular. The new west-facing entrance to Stedman Hall provides a sense of completeness to the academic quadrangle. The Plant Operations staff worked tirelessly to complete the landscaping for Homecoming. In true Central Methodist fashion, vice presidents Josh Jacobs and Julee Sherman were seen working on the landscaping and sodding phases of the project in the days leading up to Homecoming. The grounds crew appeared to be appreciative of the vice presidents’ effort and attitude and somewhat less envious of their productivity and craftsmanship. Friends and alumni returned to Fayette in large numbers for this year’s Homecoming celebration. During that weekend, we dedicated the new Earl and Linda Bates Fitness Room in the PhilipsRobb Recreational Center. Our students are regularly frequenting this great new addition to campus while their president, who stands to benefit greatly from it, for some unknown reason chooses not to. Professor Robert Wiegers presided over the dedication ceremony of the transformed Central Museum of History. In addition to the Ashby-Hodge Gallery of American Art and the Stephens Museum of Biology, the Central Museum of History is further evidence of our appreciation of the rich saga of this institution, Methodism, and the history of Midwest Missouri. Personally, Jessica Stedman Guff’s first visit to her father’s campus was the highlight of my fall. Jessica and her husband Drew, graciously agreed to be the Grand Marshals of the Homecoming parade. When Jessica spoke at the dedication of the Hall of Science named in honor of her father, there was not a dry eye on the Quad—including mine. If you haven’t done so, you can find her speech on the CMU YouTube channel. We are very appreciative of the lead gift that Jessica made for the transformation of her father’s building; we were moved by her speech of affirmation for all that is right with Central Methodist and our mission.
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The 54th annual Central Methodist University Band Day showed a 40 percent growth rate over the previous year, bringing approximately 3,400 young musicians to our campus. Professor Skip Vandelicht and his team did an outstanding job hosting this event. The streets of Fayette were reminiscent of a Saturday Evening Post cover with colorfully dressed band members marching proudly on the square. It has been a great fall for Eagle Sports. Women’s Volleyball was nationally ranked and went to the NAIA national tournament. Women’s Soccer was receiving votes. Men’s Soccer had a program high #3 ranking in the nation. Football finished a much-improved season with home wins on Alumni Weekend, Family Weekend, Homecoming, and the ESPN3 home game against Missouri Valley. Both men’s and women’s Cross Country sent competitors to the national championships. Our new eSports team had wins over Ohio State and Georgia Tech, among others. Evaluators from the Higher Learning Commission, our regional accrediting agency, completed their reaffirmation visit. Provost Gulstad has served on and chaired many, many visiting teams. While in the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, I was very involved with the accreditation process. Neither Provost Gulstad nor I have ever witnessed the glowing report that Central Methodist University received during the evaluation team’s exit interview. The bottom line is that we received the full 10-year reaffirmation, with no findings, no monitoring, and no follow-up reports. We owe a great debt of gratitude to Dr. Rita Gulstad, Dr. Deborah DeGan-Dixon, and many others that worked to make the visit such a great success. Among all the accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff, the continued increase in our freshmen retention rate provides the greatest signal of the strength of our programs and the relevance of our mission. Since 2013, our retention rate has improved from 57.6 percent to an impressive 73.5 percent this year, with significant increases in each of the intervening years. By all accounts and measures, Central Methodist is off to a fantastic start to another great year. Our success is attributable to our talented faculty, our dedicated staff, our committed Board of Trustees, our loyal alumni and friends, and most importantly, our deserving student body. It is a great privilege and honor to lead an institution that transforms lives and prepares students to make a difference in the world. Sincerely,
Senior Leadership Dr. Roger D. Drake, President Dr. Rita Gulstad, Provost Chad Gaines, Vice President For Technology and Planning Julee Sherman, Vice President For Finance and Administration Dr. Joshua Jacobs, Vice President for Advancement and Alumni Relations Dr. Joe Parisi, Vice President for Enrollment Management
TALON Fall 2018 - Table of Contents
Talon Staff
Campaign for the Heart of Central................................. 4
Scott Queen, Editor Executive Director for Marketing and Communications 660-248-6238 squeen@centralmethodist.edu
Museum of History.......................................................... 6
Maggie Gebhardt Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications 660-248-6684 mgebhardt@centralmethodist.edu Joe Waner Graphic Designer 660-248-6629 jwaner@centralmethodist.edu
Homecoming Photos....................................................... 7 Class Photos.................................................................. 12 Country Doctor Retires................................................ 16 Alumni News................................................................. 18 In Memoriam................................................................. 22 Hall of Sponsors............................................................ 24 Faculty Spotlight............................................................ 26 Winery Has Roots at CMU............................................ 28
David Hutchison Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Programs 660-248-6260 drhutchi@centralmethodist.edu
New Endowments: Sustaining Excellence..................... 32
Megan Freese Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement 660-248-6234 mfreese@centralmethodist.edu
Enrollment Record........................................................ 37
On The Cover:
The official ribbon cutting ceremony for the reimagined Stedman Hall of Science. See Page 4. Photo by Joe Waner
Our Mission
Central Methodist University prepares students to make a difference in the world by emphasizing academic and professional excellence, ethical leadership, and social responsibility.
Addisons Love Fayette.................................................. 34 Alumni Band.................................................................. 36 Westfall Honored.......................................................... 38 Chorale.......................................................................... 39 New Perry Lecture....................................................... 42 Forever Eagles: Retirements......................................... 46 New Faculty.................................................................. 47 New Staff....................................................................... 48 Auction Raises $$.......................................................... 51 Hall of Fame.................................................................. 52
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SUCCES Campaign for the Heart of Central Wraps Up
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SS!
Central Methodist University is CELEBRATING! Together, we raised over $34 million, and at Homecoming, on September 29, President Roger Drake successfully closed the Campaign for the Heart of Central and rededicated the reimagined Stedman Hall of Science. On our day of celebration, we were blessed with beautiful weather, a crowd of more than 300, and touching and impactful remarks from our guest of honor, Jessica Stedman Guff, the daughter of the late Sam Stedman ’35. Jessica shared with us the impact Central had on her father’s life and the importance of legacy. This marked the completion of the comprehensive campaign to increase scholarships, build the Thogmorton Center for Allied Health, grow the endowment, and set the sciences on the path to the future by investing in Stedman Hall. Our Eagle community met and exceeded the goals we set five years ago — goals that outside professionals said would take us nearly 10 years. Due to the vision of our Board of Trustees, the efforts of faculty and staff, and the generosity of the Eagle community, we are better prepared as an institution to meet the personal, educational, and professional expectations of our students. We will always strive to be better, to stretch ourselves, to find innovative ways to fulfill our mission to prepare students to make a difference in the world, but today, we want you to celebrate with us and enjoy the progress we have made together.
We are Central. Central. Forever. Please watch Jessica Stedman Guff’s remarks on Vimeo at https://bit.ly/2OWD4PS Fall 2018 | The Talon 5
Central Methodist University Homecoming
Museum Of History Opens Doors
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istory grabbed the spotlight for Central Methodist University’s Homecoming, and the light continues to shine on the new Central Museum of History. The museum recently changed its name to reflect a new mission focusing on preserving and interpreting the history of CMU, the City of Fayette, Missouri Methodism, and student activities at the university. Dr. Robert Wiegers, professor of history, said the new museum is far different from the natural history approach of the old Stephens Museum, which is currently closed and will reopen on the lower level of Stedman Hall of Science in spring 2019. “A history museum cannot be static,” said Wiegers, who has managed the three-year museum renovation. “It must change to provide timely or new attractions that will make people want to come back. For instance, Christmas ornaments at Christmastime. Or traveling exhibits from the state history museum. Or perhaps we’ll have an observatory display from our own Morrison Observatory.” Wiegers said the museum will maintain a permanent history of the marching display area with such favorband at Central will be ites as the Boone Stones (grave represented as well. markers of Daniel Boone and The museum’s collec• CMU History his wife, Rebecca), the Jordan tion of historic athletics Coller Collection of Civil War memorabilia is burgeoning • City of Fayette Artifacts, and the World War due to recent donations, II era-gyro compass similar to and features a 1922 leather • Missouri Methodism those used on U.S. Navy ships. football helmet worn by In addition, the museum’s alumnus Joe McClintic, a focus on CMU history will be plethora of items from a strong, and will grow, Wiegers said. One 100-plus year history of basketball, several of Morrison Observatory’s old telescopes 1930-1940 football programs recently disjust arrived in the museum, and the rich
Focus
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covered in Clingenpeel Hall, a 1943 fabric jersey worn by William Morrow Sr., and much more. Other items include a sextant (navigational device) used by the first captain of the S.S. Central Victory, a Navy ship named after Central Methodist; a growing Fayette black history display with material from Fannie M. Tolson, the last principal of Lincoln School, an all-black school in Fayette in the mid-1900s; and a full World War I display cabinet commemorating the 100th anniversary of the war.
2018
HOMECOMING
Alumni Social The All Alumni Social was a highlight of many exciting activities held on the Howard County Courthouse Square. Food, live music, and connecting with old friends made it a night to remember.
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2018
HOMECOMING
CMU P e p R a l l y / Homecoming King & Queen It truly was a great day to be an Eagle at the CMU Homecoming. The energy was in the air as the new king and queen, Malik Hughes and Peyton Bowman were crowned. But even the king and queen bowed down to the cuteness of junor escorts Lucy Jacobs and Hayden Dixon.
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2018
HOMECOMING
B a t e s F i t n e ss C e n t e r D e d i c at i o n Nearly 100 people attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony dedicating the Bates Fitness Center. They enjoyed a celebration honoring Earl and Linda Bates for their generous commitment to Central Methodist University students.
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2018
HOMECOMING
P arad e / F o o t ba l l G a m e The Howard County Courthouse Square was full for the annual Homecoming Parade, and so were the stands at Davis Field as the Eagle football team dominated in its 61-35 victory over Graceland University.
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Honored Classes Back For A Visit Alumni Return for a Homecoming to Remember
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Class of 1958: Left to Right: Marty Ferry, Bill Zimmerman, Ron Unser, Curtis Day, Keith Berry
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Class of 1963: Left to Right: Lee Potts, Marian (Olson) Rusk, Ray Schneider
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Class of 1968: Row 1: Left to Right: E. Ann (Carter) Brotherton, Gayle (Cobb) Puntney, Marilyn Caul, Marsha (Kahler) Kerr, Gail (Raymond) Gampp, Mike Rodick Row 2: Left to Right: Ken Lauburg, Doyle Puntney, Paul King, John Martin, Terry Grebe, Bob Davis, Don Schwaab
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Class of 1973: Rebecca (Cochran) Huntsman
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Class of 1978: Row 1: Left to Right: Fern (Rhone) Robbins, Vicki (Wyatt) Headley, Nancy Yuelkenbeck, Pamela (Hess) Huttsell, Susan Marner-Sides, Penny (Jones) Selle, Susan Maier Row 2: Left to Right: Susan (Peters) Harbison, Michael O’Conner, Steve Swanson, Nancy (Morrison) Nesvik, Steven Burbee, George Cover, Susan Brandt, Greg Beasley
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Class of 1983: Row 1: Left to Right: Peggy (Tyrer) Fisher, Cynthia (Grissum) Livingston, Susan (Evans) Spriggs, Susan (Hardy) Mills, Jacquelynn (Knight) Richmond Row 2: Left to Right: Chuck Fisher, Larry Layden
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Class of 1988: Row 1: Left to Right: Sharon Moore, Ellen (Ackley) Pannier, Terri (Bartley) Hession Row 2: Left to Right: Mark Calvert, Conway Briscoe, Darryl Pannier, Greg Hession
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Class of 1998: Left to Right: Allicia (Young) Baum, Jeremy Barclay, Amanda (Gammon) Niemeier
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Class of 2003: Left to Right: John Meier, Michelle Merk
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Class of 2008: Christina (Thompson) Shutt
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Class of 2013: Left to Right: Addie Layne, Caryn Jackson
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A Quick Solution New Business Incorporates Workspace, Childcare By Maggie Gebhardt | Photos By Drew Piester
About four years ago, Amanda L. Quick (’07) had a conversation with friends about a restaurant she’d heard about. This wasn’t your ordinary restaurant – it was equipped with two open childcare rooms, extra space for crafts, yoga, and more. It was a place that allowed parents to eat, work on projects, network – whatever they needed – while their children played safely nearby. That’s when Quick felt inspired. “My mind started racing. Could I create something like this?” she questioned. The idea of such a business stirred in her mind for months. In 2015, she and her husband, Sean, welcomed their daughter, Ellie, into the world. While Quick was fortunate to have the opportunity to stay home with her daughter, she found herself missing the business world. She wanted the flexibility to be with her child but also remain a professional. She decided to take the idea of her business through the steps required to become a reality. With an initial target market of mothers who work from home, The Hatchery opened its doors in July, 2017 – ready to equip and power entrepreneurs with the resources they needed to get off the ground, grow, and prosper.
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Welcoming the professional and the parent, the business provides a distractionfree work environment where members can focus on their tasks, hold client meetings, join video calls, and simply get their work done – all while their children receive supervision and care. “We aspired to be a place where you can come in, sit down, and knock out your to-do list while not worrying about your children or clutter around the house,” Quick said. It didn’t happen overnight. To get the business off the ground, Quick met with the local Small Business & Technology Development Corporation (SBTDC) office to share a business plan and then found the Missouri Women’s Business Center (MoWBC). She finalized her plan, worked through research, considered memberships, and handled finances. She then found the perfect space – a brand new building on the south side of Columbia. She joined forces with an interior designer, contractor, and landlord to build the space out over four months, picking out
everything from flooring, to toilets, to paint, to lighting, to tables and chairs. The layout consists of a main level at 2,700 square feet, with 300 square feet in an above mezzanine. It features four open workspace areas, one dedicated desk area, one conference room, two reservable private offices, two dedicated offices, an on-site childcare room, and a kitchenette. “We’re built by women and we welcome all,” Quick said. “We understand a lot of the struggles people face in business, and it’s important to create a community to help them work through struggles, empower others, and feel support through the good and bad times.” Many professionals who also choose to care for their children have been positively affected by the benefits provided at the Hatchery. “It has been amazing for me, personally, as well as for my business,” said Carrie Clark, owner of SLP Solution in Columbia. “Not only did I find childcare for my little
one while I work, but I also found a thriving community of moms and professionals who have helped me and my business grow in many ways.” Quick said she sees the power in a community, a deeper level of networking, empowering, and lifting others up. “Building The Hatchery has been one of the most stressful, overwhelming, and exciting things I’ve done,” she said. “It makes it all worth it, though, when I see two members start collaborating on a project, or when a parent can sit down and take a deep breath while their kiddo is being played with. If someone wants to live out their dream, I want to know we can help – even if we’re just a small piece of the puzzle.” Quick was born and raised in Ashland, Mo. and moved to Columbia after receiving a bachelor’s degree in marketing and advertising at Central Methodist in 2007. To learn more about The Hatchery, visit www.thehatchery.club.
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Central Methodist University
Waverly’s Country Doctor Has Finally Retired It All Started With A Biology Degree From Central
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entral Methodist alumni are 1,500 newborns into parents’ arms. lawyers, accountants, judges, McFadden retired this fall. No one teachers, and more. But to many, would have blamed him for retiring there’s only one country doctor. back in the 1980s when he was pushing That’s Gene McFadden, who at age age 60. But instead, he and four doctors 90 has a firm handshake, a quick smile, established a rural health clinic in and an even quicker wit. Waverly, Mo. From the He was born the same beginning, the Waverly “There’s simply no year as Mickey Mouse and Clinic cared for both locals one like him” ... “He penicillin, and he graduated and migrant workers. from Central in 1949. He McFadden has seen has withstood every went on to medical school in a lot of change over his ebb and flow in the six decades in medicine. Kansas and became an M.D. in 1959. health care industry House calls were a routine “You started off as a of his, and then the office – unscathed.” hotshot in the ER, delivered visit became the norm. babies, and evolved to Now, tele-health has surgeries,” he said. McFadden has fond gained ground as a diagnostic tool in memories of bringing new life into the serving remote patients, and paper charts world. Over the years, he’s placed about have given way to electronic records.
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By SCOTT QUEEN
“There’s simply no one like him,” said Toniann Richard, CEO of the Health Care Collaborative of Rural Missouri. “He has withstood every ebb and flow in the health care industry – unscathed.” Richard said that McFadden and his wife, Charlene, are a northern Missouri “power couple.” She was a nurse – a progressive one, Richard said, “always trying to find the latest in patient care.” McFadden’s clinic was later renamed the Live Well Community Health Care Center – Waverly. It is owned and operated by HCC, which also operates Live Well Centers in Buckner, Carrollton, and Concordia. Earlier this year, McFadden was still working “four days a week, seeing 140 to 150 residents each month at six nursing homes, then another 120 to 130 patients in the clinic.” And even though he has retired, McFadden is still tying up odds and ends at the clinic, and taking care of dozens of rural nursing home residents. He never tried doctoring in the big city because doctoring in the country is where his heart is. “In the rural clinic, you have more freedom – and no traffic on the way to work.” he said. Some of his patients have known him their whole lives, since the day he delivered them. “Everybody calls everybody by their first names,” he said. “They call me “The Mac or Doc. They confide in me and tell me their feelings. That’s between us; I help take care of them with the emotional part as well as the medical part.” It all started with a biology degree at Central Methodist. McFadden has precious memories of his time at Central, but they’ve faded a bit. “That’s been 70 years,” he said. But he remembers living in McMurry Hall, and later moving to an apartment off campus, where a kind woman who lived near the square fed him and his hungry roommates numerous times. He’s planning a campus visit soon. Special thanks to The Concordian, Concordia, Missouri for contributions to this article.
Central Alumni Are Forever Connected Greetings Fellow Alumni, In September, alumni heeded the call of our alma mater and returned to Fayette for Homecoming. What a weekend it was! I met and talked with alumni across the generations. Unfortunately, I was under the weather Saturday and didn’t get to see as many of you as I would have liked. The stories, photos, and the fabulous video by the Class of 1978 prove that the friendships we made at Central truly last a lifetime. That video is available for all to see on the CMU alumni Facebook page. Shortly after all the fun and celebration of Homecoming, I found out two friends from my college days passed away. While Dee Wesley ’88 and David Martin ’85 were involved with different groups and activities while they were on campus, they were still connected. The people whose lives they touched were connected. The same people who remembered Dee’s kind heart and joyful smile also remembered David’s playful spirit and joy of living. No matter where we spent our time on campus, no matter our major, no matter our Greek affiliations, no matter our dorms, etc., we are all connected. And those connections made an impact on our lives. I knew Dee and David and considered them friends, but I hadn’t been in contact since we graduated. Through the power of social media, I was able to connect with them on a level and remember the impact they each had in my life. Moments and memories matter. The connections we made at Central matter. How can we, the alumni association, better connect with YOU? How can we facilitate connections with your old friends? This year, the Alumni Association is focusing on connections. Our key projects are: • CGES Alumni – What does the alumni experience look like for those who didn’t attend CMU on campus in Fayette? • Remote Alumni – How can alumni who aren’t close enough to Fayette participate in the alumni experience? • Alumni Events – How can we connect alumni where they are located through local events? How can we encourage participation in events like sporting events, choir/band concerts, etc.? We’d love for you to be a part of building and rebuilding alumni connections across the country. Please contact me if you are interested in being part of building a strong alumni community. Central forever! On behalf of the Alumni Association and its Board of Directors, I look forward to connecting with you.
Laura Blair, Class of 1986
President, Alumni Association Board of Directors
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Central Methodist University Alumni News
Alumni News & Notes
Central friends lunch together in St. Louis. Front row: Elbert ’56 & Mona ’56 Haenssler, Bob ’56 & Billie Devine ’54, Dotty ’56 & George ’55 Luther. Back row: Jane ’56 & Joe ’53 Belew, Caryl Schieszer ’56, Sondra Spalding ’57, Mary Ann & Tom ‘54 Burcham.
1950s Martha “Marty” Ferry ’58 was selected as Fayette Rotary’s 2018 Business Leader of the Year.
1960s Marian (Olson) Rusk ’63 received the 2018 Distinguished Educator Award from the Lindbergh High School Alumni Association at its annual banquet on Sept. 19 at the Royal Orleans Banquet Center in St. Louis, Mo.
1970s Alan Yount ’70 had his 119th poem published by: JerryJazzMusician (A
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National Online Jazz Journal), on Nov. 1. For the summer issue of WestWard Quarterly, Alan was invited to be the “Featured Writer and Poet.” They published four of his poems. There were 50 poets in the issue. Patrick Brackley ’71 was unanimously voted to the Board of the Giving Hope Foundation in New Orleans, La. (Nola.org). The organization feeds over 35,000 hot meals a month in the New Orleans area, as well as 25,000 in the Kansas City area. They are also building their eighth orphanage in Brazil. Duties include a needs assessment of a Desire Street Ministry, developing a construction plan for a new field, and equipping the new $12 million facility with
basketball goals, volleyball, and indoor athletic equipment.
1980s Marvin Manring ’85 was the guest conductor for the Central Methodist University Alumni Band performance on June 16. Mark Evans ’85 published a new book called Unwelcome Detective (Higgins Point Mysteries) volume 1. Lisa (Hollis) Garro ’88 became the Director of The Heartland Regional Library Systems on January 1.
1990s Laura (Peery) Lewis ’90 is an assistant professor of education at Central Methodist University. Michael Aulbur ’91 is the principal at St. Pius X in Moberly, Mo. Jeff Remelius ’92 retired in June from the Affton School District. Jeff worked for the school district for 26 years, serving as an assistant principal and then principal of Rogers Middle School. The last four years of his career he was the director of academic options. James Gerqitz ’99 was named the new athletic director for Mineral Area College in Park Hills, Mo.
2000s Gary Tyler ’01, outreach specialist for Southeast Missouri State University’s Crisp Museum, gave a presentation for the “Historic Tuesday Talk” on World War I on Oct. 30. Sonya (Nemyer) Addison ’02 and her husband, Justin Addison, who also attended Central Methodist University, purchased the Fayette Advertiser in Fayette, Mo. AnnaMarie (Knapp) Ogunmola ’04 is teaching elementary music at Holy Cross Academy in St. Louis, Mo. Kourtney (Whiteman) Christiansen ’05 and husband Ryan announce the birth of daughter, Ryleigh Kate, born October 30. William Zwikelmaier ’06 is the director for career opportunities and employer relations at Missouri S & T in Rolla, Mo. Angela Erickson ’07 was named the director of the Allied Health Department for Mineral Area College in Park Hills, Mo. Sarah Wehrman ’06 and Nick Hessenius were married July 22, 2017.
Owen Iseminger ’08 was named the 2018 Missouri Athletic Trainers Association’s Outstanding Athletic Trainer of the Year. Kalen Linneman ’09 graduated from the Missouri State Highway Patrol training academy. Kalen joined Troop F and will be assigned to Zone 7 which includes Cooper and Howard counties. Allison Allgood ’09 will be the middle school science teacher for the New Franklin School District in New Franklin, Mo. Amy Guerin ’09 and Joseph Cassin are engaged to be married.
2010s Deidra (Payne) Brinker ’10 was hired by the Affton Board of Education to be the assistant principal for Mesnier Primary School in Affton, Mo. Rachel (Dorson) Yutz ’10 was featured in Boone Hospital’s magazine “My Boone Health” as the “getting to know my BHC Doctor.” Matt Sherman ’10 and wife Stasia announce the birth of a son, William Richey, born Sept. 10. Robert Green ’10 and Marilyn Wellborn ’08 were married May 20. Amy Wells ’10 is the new head coach for the girls’ volleyball program at North Callaway High School. She will also be teaching PE and health. Daniel Dey ’11 and wife Camrun (Montgomery) ’16 announce the birth of daughter, Riley Quinn, born Sept. 25. Aaron O’Laughlin ’11 was named the head football coach for the Westran football team in Huntsville, Mo. Charles Strong ’11 is a visiting professor of finance and economics at Anhui University in Beng Bu, Anhui, China.
Maggie Gebhardt ’12 was promoted to assistant director of marketing and communications at Central Methodist University. Evan Lavery ’12 has been named an assistant basketball coach at Emporia State University in Emporia, Kan. Tyler Bredehoeft ’12 has been named an assistant basketball coach ate Emporia State University in Emporia, Kan. Joseph Cole ’12 was named the new director of Goodwill Excel Center in Springfield, Mo. John Merrell ’12 is the branch manager of Terminix’s commercial division in St. Louis, Mo. Jordan Brennan ’12 and wife Lindsey (Whetsell) ’15 announce the birth of son, Leander Preston, born Aug. 15. Addie Layne ’13 is the new communications project manager at The United Methodist Church of Resurrection in Leawood, Kan. Patricia French ’13 is a family nurse practitioner for the Phelps County Regional Medical Center in Rolla, Mo. Anthony “Tony” Dow ’13 is the new State Farm Insurance agent for the California, Mo. office. Caryn Jackson ’13 is the new CGES admission specialist at Central Methodist University. Danell (McCubbins) Rice ’13 is the new principal for the Renick R-V School District. Elizabeth “Libby” Wilson ’13 was named the head cheerleading coach at Jefferson City High School for the 2018-19 school year.
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Bobby Murmylo ’13 and wife Julia (Dahlman) ‘14 announce the birth of son, Ethan Thomas, born Aug. 10. Josh Hall ’13 and wife Melissa (Wincek) ’10 announce the birth of son, Charles “Chip” Aubrey born June 23. Mandy Bollinger ’13 and Lucas O’Neal were married Nov. 4. Brad Smith ’14 and wife Maryrose (Lehman) ’14 announce the birth of son, Elliot Samuel, born May 7. Elizabeth “Lizz” Chappell ’14 and Nathan Stoutenborough were married April 14. Marty O’Conner Shaw ’14 and Ciera Dawson were married October 7, 2017. Valerie Kimball ’15 is the new head girls basketball coach for the Fayette School District in Fayette, Mo. Connie Holder ’15 was recently promoted to registrar for Mineral Area College in Park Hills, Mo. Novy Foland II ’15 and Valerie Kimball ’15 were married July 21.
Keonna Bush ’17 was announced as Fayette’s Ms. Juneteenth for 2018. Amanda (Morrow) Linneman ’17 is the director of alumni relations at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Mo. Kaitlan Fuemmeler ’17 and Spencer Gerald announce the birth of son, Ian Mikel, born April 30. Angie (Fuemmeler) Mateu ’17 and husband Tano, network administrator for CMU Technology Services, announce the birth of son, Venustiano Leonardo, born Nov. 1. DaSean Stokes ’17 won the prestigious Missouri Music Teachers Association (MMTA) graduate division voice competition Friday, Nov. 2 in Columbia. DaSean sang three selections: La donna e mobile by Verdi, Du bist wie eine Blume by Schumann, and Deep River by Mark Hayes. Kristy Thomas ’17 and Justin Link were married June 10. Kyla Brown ’18 is teaching 3rd grade at Macks Creek Elementary School.
William Pate ’16 was approved by the Marshfield School Board to be the new baseball coach for the 2018-19 school year.
Amanda Langley ’18 is teaching high school math at Macks Creek High School.
Max Cassidy ’15 and Emily (Schultz) ’15 were married Sept. 30, 2017.
Carrin Ketchum ’18 is serving as Macks Creek Elementary School’s preschool teacher for the 2018-19 school year.
Ashlee (Staus) Sartain ’16 is a staff accountant for Wilson Toellner, CPA.
Amber Simmerman ’18 has joined the billing department of VGM’s Homelink Division with the VGM Group in Waterloo, Iowa.
Charles Sudduth ’16 and Jacquelyn (Hoffman) ’16 were married Oct. 6.
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and PE teacher for the Jamestown C-1 School District, in Jamestown, Mo.
Kasey Hobbs ’16 and Grant Brewer were married Nov. 4, 2017.
Bo Burkhart ’18 is a graduate assistant for the Xavier University men’s basketball team.
Ethan “Jay” Thompson ’17 was hired to be the head boys basketball coach
Alyson Fuemmeler ’18 and Clayton Enyeart were married Aug. 25.
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Central Methodist University In Memoriam
Saying Goodbye To Good Friends Richard L. “Dick” Dalton ’48, A successful research chemist, administrator, and biotechnology executive, died at the age of 91 on Tuesday, September 11, 2018. He and his wife, Ginny, a retired schoolteacher, had been married 71 years. She passed away in April. The Daltons established a Hall of Sponsors Scholarship at Central Methodist University in 2007 as a tribute to the years at Central where they began their married life – years Dalton said “prepared me for graduate school and a very satisfying career.” Their scholarship recognizes the transforming nature of higher education and the importance of educating scientists. After a B.A. in chemistry at Central, he earned a master’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. He had a distinguished 50-year career working with DuPont and Endo Laboratories, and consulted in retirement with BioTechnica International. He served as president and CEO of OmniGene until his second retirement in 1995. He and his wife – high school sweethearts in St. Charles, Mo. – retired on a farm in Old Monroe, Mo., a wildlife sanctuary where they enjoyed many family outings with their five children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
1940s
Richard “Dick” Dalton and his wife, Ginny
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Frances Fitzgerald Haley ’42 of Bowling Green, Mo. died May 4, 2018. Ruth Fern Ferrier Manley ’42 of Linn, Mo. died July 1, 2018. Elma Fay Boone Eidson ’44 of Houston, Mo. died April 28, 2018. Martha Jean Ott Cutler ’47 of Columbia, Mo. died Sept. 19, 2018.
Donald Allen Davis Sr. ’47 of Louisville, Ky. died April 24, 2018. Billy Mitchell Lovell ’47 of Marshall, Mo. died May 12, 2018. William P. Alexander ’49 of Lexington, Mass. died April 25, 2018.
1950s George Innes Jr. ’57, a respected leader in the Springfield, Mo. construction industry, passed away August 24, 2018 at the age of 82. He was very proud of the fact that many members of his family attended Central Methodist. Innes and his late wife, Barbara Ferguson Innes ’57, met at Central Methodist. He was very loyal to the Mokers, and attended many of their gatherings over the years. He was a vice president with Masters Jackson Paving Company before becoming general manager at Springfield Ready Mix until his retirement in 2005. Allen S. Crites ’50 of Sikeston, Mo. died June 7, 2018. William F. Eubank ’50 of Ponca City, Okla. died July 8, 2018. Joseph A. Burnside Jr. ’51 of Chico, Calif. died May 27, 2018. Barbara Anne Sears Sjulin ’51 of Omaha, Neb. died Sept. 6, 2018. James L. Winningham ’53 of Arthur, Ill. died Oct. 31, 2018. Kenneth Eugene Kirchner ’55 of Kahoka, Mo. died Oct. 2, 2018. Monnie Sue Wilcoxson Murtha ’55 of Calverton, N.Y. died Aug. 27, 2018. Relton W. Spotts ’55 of Boulder, Colo. died Aug. 6, 2018. George William Sparks ’59 of Moberly, Mo. died Nov. 6, 2018.
1960s Paul Strickler Powell ’60 of Farmington, Mo. died Sept. 3, 2018. Helen Templeton Wells ’60 of Haymarket, Va. died July 20, 2018. Peggy Marie Wright Bonar ’61 of Rock Port, Mo. died Sept. 13, 2018. Sara Sue Jones Michie ’61 of Hayti, Mo. died May 29, 2018. Robert Lothair Miller ’61 of Fayette, Mo. died April 22, 2018. Frank Eugene Potts ’62 of O Fallon, Mo. died May 29, 2018. Frederick Leigh Turner ’64 of Arnold, Md. died May 14, 2018. Kenneth Eugene Lang ’65 of New Franklin, Mo. died May 2, 2018. Vicki S. Osborn ’67 of Marceline, Mo. died June 13, 2018. Marian L. Watson ’67 of Ballwin, Mo. died Aug. 23, 2018.
1970s William Eugene Johnson ’70 of Columbia, Mo. died Aug. 7, 2018. E. LaVelle Collins ’73 of Montgomery City, Mo. died Sept. 12, 2018. Edith F. Hanson Gordon ’74 of Mendon, Mo. died Aug. 21, 2018. Ruby F. Compton Moyer ’75 of Buffalo, Mo. died April 28, 2018. Michael B. Schnapp ’77 of Atlanta, Ga. died July 28, 2018. Brigitte Painter Steavenson ’79 of Elsberry, Mo. died May 30, 2018.
1980s
David L. Martin ’85 of Columbia, Mo. died Oct. 10, 2018. Kathy Knorp Adair Liebi ’87 of Boonville, Mo. died April 7, 2018. Delores Wesley ’88 of Greenville, S.C. died Oct. 9, 2018.
1990s Timmodean L. Burks ’92 of Florissant, Mo. died May 22, 2018. Dennis L. Gayer ’97 of Higbee, Mo. died Sept. 26, 2018. Schelly Bates Hart ’93 of Fayette, Mo. died July 5, 2018. Denise Ratcliff ’95 of Saint James, Mo. died May 23, 2018.
2000s John Paul Ames ’04 of Bismarck, Mo. died Aug. 18, 2018.
CMU Friends H. Gordon Carlson of Fayette, Mo. died May 16, 2018. Jill B. Chandler of Fayette, Mo. died July 6, 2018. Irene Virginia Dalton of Old Monroe, Mo. died April 8, 2018. George Derendinger of Franklin, Mo. died July 31, 2018. Clinton B. Ewings of New Franklin, Mo. died Nov. 3, 2018. Major General Kenneth E. Staten of Fayette, Mo., died November 7, 2018. Meghan Julie Stephens of Columbia, Mo. died Sept. 30, 2018. Carolyn Wofford of Edina, Mo. died Aug. 16, 2018.
Jennifer J. Swearengen Vance ’80 of Des Moines, Wash. died Aug. 30, 2018. Carroll Flaspohler Wies ’81 of Fayette, Mo. died July 11, 2018.
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Central Methodist University
New Hall Of Sponsors Scholarships Announced
Back row, left to right: Robert Puyear, Doug Wright ’87, Jay Shelton, ’89, Alan Brueggemann ’59 Front row, left to right: Donna Puyear, Lynn (Berwick) Wright ’89, Dee Dee (Hart) Shelton ’88, Sally Brueggemann Class of 1959 Mr. and Mrs. Alan Brueggemann Hall of Sponsors Scholarship After graduating from Central Methodist College in 1959, Alan Brueggemann took a job in Granite City, Illinois teaching elementary physical education. Alan received his bachelor’s degree from Central and master’s degree from the University of Missouri. His sister and niece also graduated from Central. While teaching, he met his wife, Sally Stieb. They were married in 1970, and have three children and three grandchildren who bring them great
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joy. Fortunately, they all live in the St. Louis area, so they are always close to their loved ones. For 50 years, they spent many days at their farm in Pike County. Alan enjoyed the country life, but in 2013 decided to sell the farm and horses. He played competitive softball until he was 75. Tennis, bike riding, hiking, and basketball also kept him active for many years. Now he takes pleasure in traveling and being with his grandchildren. Alan said, “As I look back on my years at Central, I remember the good friends I made, the fun we had on baseball trips
and I am thankful for the education that I received.” Hart-Shelton Family Hall of Sponsors Scholarship Jay (’86) and Dee Dee (’88) both came from very supportive families, so they were very secure in their early years. They felt their time at Central was the most formative and significant years of their lives. They left the security of their home, they were standing at the precipice of becoming self-sufficient adults, and there were four years during that time where they had to develop how they were going to do that. For them,
Central provided the mechanism. Central gave them enough security that they never felt alone, and yet they had the freedom to explore and develop into the people they eventually became. Plus, they met one another and decided to spend a life together. And that’s the beauty of what Central often does, bring people together. So, because Central was so significant a player in the most significant, formative years of their lives, they don’t look at this as giving, or making a gift; to them it’s more like paying back. They feel they owe Central something for being such an important part of their lives. And now, circumstances have given them the opportunity to repay. It’s a way for Jay and Dee Dee to pay it forward and hopefully those people that come along behind them will have those same kinds of opportunities. Jay and Dee Dee have made Central a part of their plan. In 2016, they created a Hall of Sponsors Scholarship, in recognition of Dee Dee’s experience as a first generation student at Central Methodist. With their new fund at CMU, Jay and Dee Dee hope to make an impact on students now.
Rev. J.K. and Fern Wright Hall of Sponsors Scholarship By Doug Wright ’87
My grandfather, Papa as he was known to me and his grandkids, passed away on Father’s Day in 2001. He was a living witness of how Christ would want us to treat others through love, respect, and caring with a humble spirit and he cared deeply for his family. He made a tremendous impact on numerous lives throughout southwest Missouri during his time in the ministry. It was his recommendation that I just make a campus visit to Central Methodist College back in the spring of 1983 even though I was strongly leaning towards attending another college at the time. Out of respect for him and also the opportunity to just make a visit somewhere, I decided to visit CMC. Based upon that visit and support from my parents I made a decision that I have never regretted, I chose to attend CMC and graduated in 1987. I met my wife, Lynn Berwick, there, and she graduated in 1989 and we were married in 1990. We both were beneficiaries of scholarships that helped us get through college and have been grateful for the opportunities CMC gave to us during
our years attending there. It was with great honor that we decided to set up the Rev. J.K. Wright Memorial Scholarship back in 2001 as a small way to honor him and also help future students attending CMU. Helping others would have been something he would be pleased about. Several other family members and friends have contributed to the scholarship fund ever since its inception in 2001. Through the years since the scholarship was set up, Lynn and I discussed getting the scholarship to the Hall of Sponsor level as a next step beyond just an endowed scholarship. Through a plan of regular giving over time and other support from family and friends along the way we finally achieved that goal recently. Giving back to CMU has meant a lot to us as we both know how important it was to us when we attended. I know I speak for all of my grandfather’s family when I say we are extremely proud that his name is now listed as a Hall of Sponsor scholarship at CMU. It is our sincere desire that the future students who are recipients of the scholarship will enjoy their experience at CMU, obtain a quality education, and in turn, someday, give back to others. Robert and Donna Puyear Hall of Sponsors Scholarship Bob and Donna Puyear became involved with then- Central Methodist College in 1979 when their daughter, Jill, enrolled as a freshman. Their son, Tim, followed two years later. Donna was active in the St. Louis Central Methodist College Mothers Club and served as president before it dissolved in the late 80s. When churches were asked to participate in special programs or campaigns, the Puyears were the liaisons for the United Methodist Church of Green Trails in Chesterfield, Missouri. They have donated to annual and capital fund campaigns for many years. In 2011, Donna was nominated to the Board of Trustees of Central Methodist University and is completing her second term at this time.
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Central Methodist University Faculty Spotlight
By MAGGIE GEBHARDT
Enactus is an international organization that brings together student, academic, and business leaders who are committed to the power of entrepreneurism. As Sam Walton Fellow, Bennett works closely with Enactus students, and helps them gain experience outside the classroom while growing as leaders in business.
The Perfect Fit
In Finding Central, Bennett Found Where She Belongs
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hen Julie Duerst Bennett decided she wanted to walk away from higher education for good, she never expected a university to take her hand, lead her back, and give her a new sense of home. “I love working at Central,” she said. “I cannot imagine working anywhere else.” It’s a statement that reflects certainty, and a deep commitment to her profession – to not imagine ever being anywhere else – especially when she led such an exciting, on-the-go life in her prior career. Bennett started off in the fashion industry, and worked her way through her undergraduate degree modeling sportswear. She then produced fashion shows and special events before
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moving on to being a bridal and evening wear buyer/manager – never really wanting to leave fashion show production behind. “Over my career, I have worked in a variety of retail and sales industries,” she said. “I once had a division chair tell me I could sell someone their own shoes.” But when her daughter was born, she “retired” from that life to be a stay-at-home mother. After some time passed, she received a phone call from Columbia College asking her to teach modeling, fashion show production, and visual merchandising. “Until that time, I had not considered teaching at all,” she said. She completed her master’s degree and be-
came the program coordinator for the Fashion Merchandising and Fashion Communication programs at Columbia College, and then Stephens College, where she also was codivision chair. Soon after, she made the decision to go back into the business sector and leave teaching behind. She found a position in marketing and public relations, but then received yet another life-altering phone call. “It was a late-night call from a friend who told me she ‘heard through the grapevine’ I was leaving Stephens, that CMU needed a marketing teacher, and I needed to come interview,” Bennett said. “I told her my plans, but she insisted. I came up just a few days later for a visit, and was offered the position soon after that.” And that’s when it all changed. She thought her mind was set. She thought she was determined to return to her old profession – that lifestyle she believed fit her and her passions – but quickly, it all changed.
“I often think of that Rascal Flatts song “Bless The Broken Road,” because continuing higher education was not in my plan, but Central was and is the perfect fit.” Bennett fell in love with the campus. She fell in love with the people at Central – the faculty, staff, and especially the students. She fell in love with watching them succeed, and with making a difference in their lives – with shaping the minds of young adults who would go out in the world and make a difference for others. “I believe in honesty and integrity, and have high standards and expectations of both myself and my students,” she said. “I emphasize that one individual can make a difference. I stress that students should lead by example and do their best to mentor others – all mantras I do my best to follow every day. “I also let them know they need to love what they do and that often, their calling may happen out of the blue – I know mine did.” Bennett started at Central in the fall of 2006, and is an associate professor of business; current division chair for Accounting, Business, and Economics; and the CMU Enactus Sam Walton Fellow. She was born and raised in Columbia, and is married to Kevin Bennett. Together, they have a daughter, Whitney.
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A Tale of Vintners and Veterans Northwest Missouri Winery Has Roots At CMU By SCOTT QUEEN
The strong winds of northwest Missouri are plentiful— creating a market for large wind farms with spinning turbines dotting the countryside almost as far as the eye can see. But the wind has generated more than turbines in tiny Osborn, Missouri, where Central Methodist University alumnus Jeff Harbison and his father-in-law, Bill Arthur, are operating Grindstone Valley Winery.
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ind is a little-known secret to successfully growing grapes. Breezes tend to reduce the impact of the blazing Missouri sun, while offering protection at times for vulnerable vines when radiation frost threatens. “And it helps a lot after rains,” said Harbison. “Grapes don’t like to stay wet, so the wind helps take care of that.” Arthur created his first vineyard in 2010, and Harbison helped out. “We planted more and more year after year and eventually started selling the grapes to different wineries,” Harbison said. “We actually started selling grapes in 2012 and 2013, and then made our own wine in 2014. And we started talking about a winery.” Arthur happened to know most of the veterans at the American Legion in Osborn, who were having difficulty keeping up with repairs at their tiny post. It was a depression-era bank building that was falling apart. Harbison said his father-in-law approached the veterans about buying the building and converting it into a winery, but at first they were skeptical. “They were worried it was going to end up being a smoky bar,” Harbison said. “But after they learned more about wineries and understood our vision, they were on board.” Arthur and Harbison purchased the building, poured money into renovations, and generously agreed to let the American Legion continue meeting there. The pair had a handshake agreement with the veterans about the building’s décor, and it proudly displays memorabilia and photos of Osborn veterans who served in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and even Desert Storm.
“They were worried it was going to end up being a smoky bar. But after they learned more about our wineries and understood our vision, they were on board.”
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“They know Jeff and I have kept that place like a museum,” said Arthur, who has degrees in history and geography and is an accomplished writer. “I’ve written stories in the area papers and on websites about many of these guys and their war memories. Sadly, only one of the World War II veterans is still with us.” Grindstone Valley Winery, which got its name from a creek near Arthur’s vineyard, officially opened its doors in 2015. The clientele is mostly mid-Missourians ranging in age from their late 20s to late 50s. Harbison does see customers from Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, “and even a few from Minnesota once in a while.” The winery has grown since its inception, evidenced by the fact that Harbison and Arthur enhance their production by purchasing grapes from others. Grindstone Valley also sells its product in area grocery stores, and occasionally appears at Missouri festivals and wine walks. Grindstone Valley is listed in the Missouri Winery Guide, published all across the state, and is a popular stop on the WineStein Trail, a
beer and wine route that includes Maryville, Easton, Osborn, Hamilton, and Trenton. There is no question as to the most popular wine, according to the owners. “It has to be the Lincoln Red,” said Harbison. “Sweet wines are the most popular. But the semi-sweet white, Estate Vignoles, is pretty popular, too. Bill likes the Vignoles.” Harbison said he and his father-in-law split the winery duties, and don’t often get in one another’s way. “He has his thing to do and I have mine,” Harbison said. “I make all the wine, and he does the grape growing. We all get together and do the bottling.” Arthur, who still keeps up with 100 head of cattle and 70 ewes, and coaches high school softball, calls his son-in-law “the chemist. He does a really good job.” Harbison said he didn’t have much of an idea on how to make wine early on, and the pair hired a wine consultant for the first couple of years to “get me up to speed. After all, I didn’t get a chemistry degree at Central. My
degree was in business.” Harbison doesn’t discount the impact Central had on his life. He said his degree prepared him for handling the business side of the winery. Central also helped a shy young man from Nixa in another area. “Central helped me learn how to deal with people,” he said. “I grew up there.” Harbison’s mother, Susan, is a CMU alumna, and his father, David, attended school at Central. He also found his sweetheart at Central. He met his wife, Laura (Arthur) ’03, on campus at a fraternity-sorority mixer. She is a former softball player who majored in biology. “Jeff would come to my dorm room to watch Cardinal games because I had the biggest TV,” Laura said. The two were married in 2006, and ended up in Cameron, very near Osborn, where Laura is now a doctor. “We had almost put down roots in the Nixa area where I was from,” Harbison said. But the wind blew in a different direction, and they ended up in northwest Missouri.
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Central Methodist University
SUSTAINABLE
EXCELLENCE
Creating these endowments provides a permanent source of funding for four important programs at CMU.
CFS Mission Trips Central isn’t just a University with a mission, it’s a University on a mission. For more than a decade, instead of going to the beach, many students from CMU have chosen to spend their Spring Break doing mission work. From providing clean water kits in Haiti and working with the poor in Los Angeles, to helping with the continued recovery from Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, our students are taking their Central education beyond the classroom and gaining life-changing experiences through the Center for Faith and Service. This spring, CMU will take a group of students to Puerto Rico to help rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Maria. CMU has a responsibility to help students develop into leaders within their communities that take global social responsibility seriously. The cost to each student for attending one of these mission trips is approximately $1,000, a hefty sum for many of our students. The goal of this endowment, combined with annual fundraising work done by the students themselves, is to reduce the student’s portion of the cost to as close to zero as possible.
The Scholar Athlete Experience Eagle Athletics has seen some incredible successes over the years. More than 70% of our students participate in one of our 17 athletic programs, and while success on the field is important, at Central Methodist, academic achievement always comes first. To help ensure that our scholar athletes have the tools they need to succeed in the classroom, CMU has established a tutoring program dedicated to supporting their academic needs. Through this endowment program, we will be able to permanently provide academic support in the form of individual tutors who will spend critical one-on-one time with our student athletes.
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Instrument Repair and Replacement Endowment One of the hallmarks of the Central Methodist Band has always been the creativity and skill with which we make great things come from small beginnings. We plan individualized ways to foster success in their music education and experience; we also have to be creative in how we handle and provide musical instruments for our programs. Nearly half of our students rely on University-owned instruments for both practice and performance. These instruments are vital tools that get used by students day in and day out, and with many of them having been purchased decades ago, one can imagine the constant wear and tear that requires regular upkeep and, eventually, replacement. CMU is great at getting the most bang for the buck when replacing or purchasing new instruments, but this important need still represents an annual cost of thousands, just to maintain what we have. This often leaves little room for needed upgrades, such as the new Five-Octave Marimba purchased last year with the help of several alumni donors. This significant percussion upgrade allows students like Brendan Wiesehan to prepare for graduate school on the kinds of instruments he’ll be expected to master there. Without the help of annual donations like this, CMU Music is often faced with making difficult decisions about priorities. Through this new band instrument endowment, we hope to achieve a sustainable source of funding to provide annual repairs and replacements, helping make sure that each generation of music students at Central have the tools they need to succeed.
Meghann (Teague) Hutchison Memorial Chorale Tour Endowment Central is rich with traditions, and one of the most enduring traditions is the annual Chorale Tour, bringing the gifts and talents of our young musicians to local high schools and United Methodist Churches throughout the state of Missouri each fall. This may very well be one of the most prominent ways in which CMU presents itself to prospective students and their parents in local communities. For our students, it often serves to create some of their most lasting memories from their time at Central, and many alumni have pointed to a visit from the Chorale to their home school or church as a significant part of how they chose Central. With every passing year, the cost of this important experience continues to rise, and so to provide a permanent source of funding, a Chorale Tour Endowment was established in November 2017 in memory of Meghann (Teague) Hutchison, a 2005 Vocal Performance graduate, and alto in the Chorale from 2001-2005.
Endowments: Foundation of Central’s Future To support one of these endowments or to create your own, call Dr. Josh Jacobs at 660-248-6214 or email him at jejacobs@centralmethodist.edu. Send mail to Office of Advancement, 411 Central Methodist Square, Fayette, Mo. 65248.
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Addisons: By SCOTT QUEEN
A Nose For News, And A Love For Fayette Photo By ELLIOT KNERNSCHIELD
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umans are curious creatures. When it comes to news, mankind craves it. If something happens down the street, we want to know. Justin Addison and his wife, Sonya, understand this. In a way, it relates to their reason for buying the historic Fayette Advertiser. Justin feels a sense of commitment to the town in which he was born. He knows many of his readers aren’t checking a Twitter feed or what is happening on Facebook. “I feel responsible to this town and I want people to depend on us,” he said. “I want to be sort of a watchdog. We’re here to ask questions and report on city and county government and our schools.” The Addisons, who met in the marching band at Central Methodist University and were married in 2000, purchased the newspaper from Pat Roll and took over operations in July. While Sonya continues her work in Columbia as an endocrinologist, Justin takes care of the day-to-day newspaper operations. He said his background has prepared him for this day. Years ago, he got his first taste of the newspaper business as sports editor of his
hometown paper. Jim Steele and Denny Davis were his mentors, and he remembers well the scourge of Davis’ red pen. “He really worked me over,” Addison said. “But I learned and it made me better.” After seven years of sometimes 70-hour weeks, Justin understandably burned out covering the local sports scene. He was ready for the next chapter of what would lead him back to the newspaper—learning to run a business. “Sonya and I bought a jewelry store in Columbia,” he said. “I had talked to Jim about buying the paper, but I wasn’t ready. The jewlery work was really Sonya’s passion. We were very successful. And I got a good business education.” Sonya had actually started working at Tucker’s Fine Jewelry while studying at Central Methodist, loved it, and built a strong relationship with the owner, who had to sell the business. “Buying it was a natural progression,” she said. But after nearly a decade in their jewelry venture, the couple seized the opportunity to close the store as their lease was expiring. The deal’s financing fell through, and the decision was made
“I feel responsible to this town and I want people to depend on us.”
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to close. That was in September, 2017. Different things were percolating in their lives, including Justin’s desire to get back into the newspaper business. “It took some work, but I convinced Pat to sell the paper,” he said. “I knew the timing was right for us. I’d spent so much time thinking about it.” He also wanted to go home to Fayette. “When we started with the jewelry store Sonya was doing her internship, so we needed to be in Columbia and closer to the business,” he said. “But it turned
into five years. I had never lived outside of Fayette for more than a few months at a time until then. It was good, though. It made me realize how much I missed home.” Sonya, who received the Young Alumni Award at Central in 2015, said they wanted to raise their two children, Jake and Alex, in Fayette and send them to school in a small town. “The crime rate in Columbia was ticking up, too,” she said. Plus, the yearning of small-town life wasn’t only something inside of Justin.
After all, Sonya grew up in tiny Fairfax, population 400, in northwest Missouri. Not only did they move to Fayette, but they purchased the home Justin grew up in. “We couldn’t find what we wanted,” Justin said. “My parents had already built a different house, and they were happy we would be able to preserve 40 years of family memories.” He’s also preserving a town’s memories of its beloved old newspaper. Addison has made moves to improve the paper visually and modernize some processes. But his heart lies in the paper’s content, and contributing
in any way he can to improve the town he loves so much. “The biggest issue facing this town is our economy and the aging of the square,” he said. “We have 120-year-old buildings that were built to last 100 years.” Addison hopes new young business owners and leadership will bring energy and new ideas into play. He personally hopes to see a resurrection of a Fayette Chamber of Commerce. He wants nothing but the best for Fayette. Some might say he craves it. Just like his readers crave news.
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Central Methodist Sets Enrollment Record
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any Missouri colleges are suffering steep declines in enrollment, but Central Methodist University set an enrollment record this fall. Central opened classes in August with a new student surge of 18 percent over the prior year, eclipsing the previous record set in 2012. Central President Roger Drake said he was thrilled with the increase and proud of a “team effort at Central.” He attributes the increase to a few key factors: • The university’s new Digital U initiative, providing iPads to all Fayette campus students and weaving digital learning into coursework across dozens of majors • Investing in significant infrastructure improvements, particularly the completion of the renovation of Stedman Hall of Science • Introducing the enrollment management concept on campus last summer led by the Vice President for Enrollment Management, Dr. Joe Parisi “Our students can see our commitment to improvement,” Drake said. “There is a level of enthusiasm among our students, faculty, and staff that lifts everyone up. Our friends notice
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it, and so do our alums.” Drake said that while the enrollment increase is largely first-time freshmen, transfer student enrollment is also on the upswing. He said the university has invested significant time and money in its relationships with community college partners across Missouri, and has introduced the popular Gulstad Scholarship for transfer students. Central’s increases are most impressive in Nursing, Biology, and Exercise Science, according to Parisi. He said it is no coincidence that the strongest growth areas are associated with Central’s large investment in the sciences at Stedman Hall and in health related professions in the Thogmorton Center for Allied Health. Other key factors, Parisi said, include a new enrollment management team at Central, new campaigns, a new visit and campus events program, and strategic partnerships with high schools. “It’s a new day and CMU must continue to build on new and existing relationships,” Parisi said. “Today’s partnerships create tomorrow’s success.”
Retention Rate Continues Steady Ascent
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hile Central Methodist University’s big enrollment increase made headlines, another important metric was quietly making a case for its own accolades. Retention, one of the strongest indicators of a college’s academic quality, has increased at Central for the fifth consecutive year. CMU is reporting a 73.45 percent retention rate for first-time, full-time students. “If you were to ask me what has made the difference, I would say it isn’t one thing—it’s everything,” President Roger Drake told his Board of Trustees. “We’re talking about retention at every meeting and keeping it in the forefront of our collective mind.” Drake said that there are other more measurable efforts that have contributed to the nearly six percent increase over fall 2017. He said programs such as Eagle Connect, a student engagement effort, have helped, along with improvements in the reserve team sports experience, better financial
aid leveraging, and stronger Greek Life programs. In addition, the multimillion-dollar renovation of Stedman Hall of Science has helped retain STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) majors, and the Digital U iPad initiative has had an impact. “First and foremost, the improvement in retention is most attributable to a change in culture on campus,” Drake said. “There is a student-centered atmosphere, a caring and talented faculty, new academic programs, dramatically improved business and customer service processes, and new engagement opportunities like the Center for Faith and Service. They have all played a role.” Drake placed a focus on retention when he came to Central in 2013, emphasizing “a new willingness to demonstrate activecaring, and a new willingness to intervene in the life of a young person.” The 2013 retention rate was 57.6 percent, and Central has seen steady increases every year since Drake arrived on campus.
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Central Methodist University
Claude Westfall Honored With Luther T. Spayde Award
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laude Westfall has been making an encouraging and progressive impact on Central Methodist University vocal students since he first arrived on campus in 2008. All eyes were on him during the summer as he received recognition for his talents while being honored with an impressive award. Westfall, director of choral activities and associate professor of music, received the Luther T. Spayde Award of Excellence during the Missouri Choral Directors Association (MCDA) 40th Annual Conference at Capitol Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City. This prestigious award is presented annually to one outstanding member of MCDA who demonstrates excellence by choral music training, performance, and scholarship, and who also displays a long-standing commitment to choral music in Missouri, positive communication with colleagues, and active participation through service and leadership in MCDA. “Winning this award as a professor at the same university where Luther T. Spayde taught was beyond humbling. Professor Spayde basically started the MCDA and his legacy is known across the state,” Westfall said. “I am incredibly honored to be the recipient. There are so many worthy teachers and I accepted this award with all of them in mind.” Since joining Central Methodist, Westfall has enhanced CMU’s elite choir, the Chorale – broadening its repertoire and challenging the range and passion of the students who comprise it.
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Claude Westfall (left), director of choral activities and associate professor of music at Central Methodist University, receives the Luther T. Spayde Award of Excellence from Missouri Choral Directors Association (MCDA) President Nathan Rudolph during the MCDA’s 40th annual Conference held at Capitol Plaza Hotel in Jefferson City. The choir has sung at impressive locations such as the National Cathedral in Washington D.C., the Nashville Symphony, and many United Methodist churches across the nation. Along with directing the Chorale, Westfall teaches academic music education courses including Elementary Music Education, Guitar Class, Choral Conducting, Choral Literature, and Choral Techniques. Westfall is a Centralia native. He has nearly 42 years of experience teaching music. His ensembles have performed at state and national conventions, and have traveled extensively, performing in Germany, Austria, and Italy.
In addition to the Luther T. Spayde Award, Westfall has been the recipient of many honors over the years. In 1997, he received the John Schnell Faculty Dedication Award. In 1998, he was given “USA Today’s” All Teacher Academic Award for contributions to the advancement of Music Education. He received the Outstanding Alumnus Award from Missouri State University in 2005, and in 2006 and 2007, he was recognized for his excellence in teaching at the University of Missouri. Westfall is active as a clinician and conductor for district and regional choirs. His co-authored research has appeared in the “MENC Journal of Research in Music Education.”
Chorale Honored With Impressive Invitations Performing At MMEA Conference In January, National ACDA Convention In March
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entral Methodist University’s Chorale continues to wow its audiences across Missouri and beyond. There’s a lot to look forward to for the talented vocalists, who wrapped up their musical tour on November 20 after performing at a variety of churches and high schools around the state. The Chorale has been invited to represent the University at the 81st annual Missouri Music Educators Association (MMEA) Workshop/Conference, “Appear and Inspire,” at Tan-Tar-A in Osage Beach in January, 2019, according to Claude Westfall, director of choral activities and associate professor of music at CMU. “For a choir, band, or orchestra, this is like a state title,” Westfall said. “This is an amazing victory that CMU has been chosen for our sound, even against much bigger schools.”
According to Westfall, Central Methodist competes against larger institutions such as UMKC College of Arts and Sciences in Kansas City, Webster University and Washington University, both in St. Louis, Missouri State University in Springfield, University of Missouri in Columbia, and others. “The Chorale has continually grown,” he said. “They began really believing in themselves and developed the pride to become better.” Their application was one of nearly 200 submitted for the opportunity to perform. Also representing a Central Methodist musical experience at the MMEA Conference will be two Central alumni, who are directors of ensembles from Missouri high schools invited to perform. Dustin McKinney (’08) will be directing the Kearney High School Chamber Choir,
and Chuck Moore (’91) will direct the Sullivan High School Symphonic Band. In addition to the Chorale’s impressive invitation from the MMEA, they have also been invited to perform at the National ACDA Convention in March, 2019, as one of six choirs in Missouri to sing for the 40th anniversary celebration of the Robert Ray Gospel Mass, according to Westfall. “What makes me so proud of the Chorale is the individual special traits – each and every student loves to perform. They each sing every day from their hearts,” Westfall said. The Chorale goes on tours during the academic year, and has sung at impressive locations such as the National Cathedral in Washington D.C., the Nashville Symphony, and many United Methodist churches across the nation – gaining more acclaim each year.
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Central Methodist University
Do What You Can, Let God Take Care Of The Rest CMU Alumnus Shares College Choices, Career Path Story courtesy Fred Koenig, Missouri Methodists hose in the St. Louis area probably recognize John Brown from his reporting and news analysis on Fox2 and KPLR. You may not know that he’s a 1994 graduate of Central Methodist University, and TV was not where he saw himself going when he was in college. In this Q&A he reflects on his college days, and offers advice for students and parents that are at that stage of life.
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Where did you grow up? I grew up in pretty much every part of the state of Missouri in my childhood, including more than a dozen different places. In my sixth-grade year, I attended four schools and ultimately ended up in Belle. That is where I lived until graduation in 1989. For some people, moving around that much might seem strange, but it gave me a unique perspective on the Show Me State, which ultimately led me to writing several books based on Missouri history and people.
Why did you choose Central Methodist? I was familiar with the campus because we traveled to Fayette for various school activities, like parades. I fell in love with the campus the first time I saw it. It always reminded me of those historic campuses I had seen pictures of in books, so I knew I would eventually end up there. I was also recruited by Coach Jeff Sherman to play basketball and golf at CMU (Central Methodist College back then). When I found out that the school had been named one of the top pre-med schools in the state, the decision was pretty easy to make!
What were you into while in college? In addition to playing basketball for the “Running Eagles”, I also was on the golf
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team, joined a fraternity, while also working in the computer lab, greenhouse, and science labs. Once my pre-medical studies became too intense I had to cut back on some of the activities in order to keep my grades up!
What advice do you have for students considering what college to go to? My best advice to parents and students when it comes time to picking a college is you have to make the visits and then go with your gut. I actually went to a different college my freshman year because that’s where my brother was going. He loved it, but it wasn’t a fit for me, so I was miserable. Some people think they want a large university until they visit a smaller college like CMU and realize how much it has to offer.
What did you do after college? I had done everything possible I could to get ready for a career in medicine, but it just didn’t feel right. I was advised by many of the physicians I interned with in college to take a year or two off to make sure medical school was something I really wanted to do. What I discovered when I got into the ‘real world’ was that I was passionate about news and broadcasting. So I had to switch gears and start from the bottom and work my way up. I took a job in Miami at WQAM radio making very little money, just to learn the ropes. But once I knew that broadcasting was my career, I worked as hard as possible and moved up rather quickly in the industry be-
John Brown
cause I was very focused on what I wanted. After Miami, I moved back to Missouri for a radio reporting job. That led to a morning show hosting job in Pennsylvania, and ultimately back to Springfield, Missouri where I got my first TV job at KSPR-TV. The station was just starting a morning show and I ended up at the right place at the right time. I spent five years at Springfield 33, then landed a job at The Daily Buzz, which was a nationally syndicated morning show. After my time on The Buzz ended, we came back to St. Louis, where I got a job with KTVI-Fox 2. After another stint in Orlando with the Fox affiliate, we found our way back to St. Louis where I became the evening news anchor on Fox 2.
How did you stay motivated to keep going through relocations for the next thing? It may sound like a lot of moving, but to me, it’s all about new experiences and taking
advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. I often give a speech called “Work in the Natural and let God take care of the Supernatural.” The bottom line is that you have to do everything you can, then let God take care of the rest. I believe he blesses people who are willing to work hard and take risks, which has often been proven in my life. There is no way I could have moved up the broadcast chain as quickly as I did without both of those factors in play.
Did you stay connected with Central Methodist? I have stayed connected with Central in many ways since graduation. I was on the Alumni Board of Directors for several years. I always felt that Central gave so much to me, that it was my responsibility to give back to the university. I am truly blessed to have been at Central at a point in my life where it literally changed my life for the better. I was
also honored with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from CMU in 2004. Of all the awards and recognition I have received over the years, that one is still the tops! Getting recognized for your work from a place that I love so much means the world to me.
What other things do you do now outside of your job? In addition to by job, I also have a family which keeps me extremely busy. Since I work evenings, I don’t get to see them much during the week, so my weekend with my girls are precious. I am also an avid runner, which led me to my invention, Bib Magnets. I invented the product several years ago and it is now growing rapidly in stores across the country. I also have several books currently on the market, with the latest being The Missouri Almanac 2018-2019.
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Central Methodist University
Faith And Science Lecture Series To Debut In April
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fascinating new faith and science lecture series is on the horizon at Central Methodist University, thanks to a generous gift from the Reverend Garth Leigh, who wants to honor the memory of Dr. Thomas Perry, longtime chair of the then-Central Methodist College English Department. Reverend Leigh is endowing a lecture series as a testament to the impact Perry had on generations of students at Central, encouraging them to think deeply, wrestle with greater questions, and challenge themselves to be the best citizens and scholars. He wants the annual lecture to focus on the role that minister-scientists have played in the development of both religious traditions as well as scientific discoveries.
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Perry (1912-2002) spent 20 years as chairman of the Department of English at CMC. He was also chair of the Division of Literature and Languages and chair of the honors program. He sponsored Scribblers and Scrawlers, a club for aspiring creative writers, hosting and entertaining them monthly in his home. Perry is the late father of Tad Perry, chairman of the board of trustees at CMU. “His students treasure countless memories from his 45-year teaching career,” said Leigh, a 1961 Central graduate. “They fondly recall the resonance of his speaking voice, his mastery when reading poetry in Old and Middle English with more fidelity to brogues than Henry Higgins. “They exult in memories of all he shared
about Shakespeare, all those times he lectured without notes, a headful stocked with mind-stretching details, and all his encouraging comments to Scribblers and Scrawlers writer wannabes. “Some of them remember November 8, 1960, when he and Lora entertained many of his students while watching into the night as dramatic election returns filtered in between Richard Milhous Nixon and John Fitzgerald Kennedy. “Some students and fellow faculty members might conjecture that, if you stacked the positive memories end to end, they, like NASA’s spaceship New Directions, might have reached Pluto. At any rate, Dr. Thomas A. Perry launched 45 years of students in “new directions.” In honor of those gifts to generations of students and the directions he gave to their lives, the annual Thomas A. Perry Lecture series is endowed in perpetuity.” The inaugural Dr. Thomas A. Perry Faith & Science Lecture will be held April 7 in Stedman Hall, Room 200. CMU will welcome Dr. Jonathan Lunine from Cornell University and the inaugural speaker. Lunine is the David C. Duncan Professor in the Physical Sciences at Cornell, and is the Director of the Cornell Center for Astrophysics and Planetary Science. Lunine, who grew up in a non-religious, Jewish family, himself became a Christian after work with the Vatican Astronomy Group during a series of sabbaticals in Rome, and in 2016, co-founded the Society of Catholic Scientists. The focus of the lecture will be to encourage dialogue on faith and science, and conversations about the compatibility of faith and science. As a University within the Wesleyan tradition, Central Methodist holds a special place in higher education at the intersection of faith and knowledge. In an era when polarization seems to be pulling these two sides apart, forcing people to choose either faith or science, there is an opportunity – a need – to bring people together to engage in thoughtful dialogue. Reverend Leigh served as a United Methodist pastor for many years, and has worked as a freelance writer since his retirement from ministry in 2000. He currently lives in Kansas City, MO, with his wife, Cheri.
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Central Methodist University
By MAGGIE GEBHARDT
Marie Dennis Speaks On Importance Of Nonviolence Sunoo World Peace Lecture Series Addresses Global Concern
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he human community simply cannot sustain the levels of war and violence that have such unconscionable consequences. We have to find a better way to live together on this planet.” Marie Dennis, co-president of Pax Christi International, spoke these impactful words during Central Methodist University’s annual Harold W. Sunoo World Peace Lecture Series, held Tuesday, Oct. 30. Dennis presented “Active Nonviolence: A Paradigm Shift To A More Peaceful World” that evening, as she spoke to Central faculty, staff, students, and members of the community about the importance of finding alternatives to violence. Working for Pax Christi International – a global Catholic peace movement – since 2007, Dennis is a leader of the 120-member organization working for peace on six continents. Pax Christi was founded at the end of World War II to promote reconciliation. According to Dennis, members share a deep commitment to active nonviolence. “We believe more creative energy, as well as intellectual and financial investment in the development of nonviolent approaches to peace keeping and peace building, are essential to addressing the tremendous challenges of the 21st century,” she said. Dennis spoke about how publicly, nonviolence is often misrepresented or misunderstood. In many circumstances, it is too
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narrowly defined, or dismissed as passive or utopian, but strong evidence suggests a different conclusion – that active nonviolence is both powerful and affective. “It’s much, much more than participating in a demonstration, or chaining yourself to a fence, or crossing a line,” Dennis said. “It is much bigger than civil resistance.” Dennis said addressing trauma in local communities is necessary to achieve the kind of stable and peaceful society we long for. She said the underlying causes of conflict need to be addressed – why is there violence? In order to create change, Dennis said it is crucial to revitalize livelihoods in conflict-affected economies, rebuild confidence in the political processes, reform police, promote the rule of law, and show respect for human rights. These actions are a package of responses or efforts that can prevent violence and build a peaceful society. Dennis said the consequences of war are great, and include physical, economical, psychological, ecological, and environmental. She spoke about how society continues to witness wars going on and on, or failing to accomplish their stated purpose. Because of this, it is necessary to collectively fill the public policy toolbox with affective conflict prevention, peace building, and nonviolent tools. “The obstacles are huge. The topic of nonviolence sometimes sounds abstract. But, in reality, the future – if the world is
going to have a future – has to learn to be nonviolent,” Dennis said. Dennis worked for the Maryknoll Missioners from 1989 to 2012, which included 15 years as director of the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns. She was one of the primary organizers of the April 2016 Conference of Nonviolence and Just Peace that was cosponsored by the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, as well as Pax Christi. The conference called on the Catholic Church to recommit to the centrality of gospel nonviolence, proposed the World Day of Peace 2017 Theme on nonviolence, and started the Catholic Nonviolence Initiative. In 2016, Dennis received the Public Peace Prize and was named Person of the Year by the National Catholic Reporter. She has served on the national boards of the Alliance for Peacebuilding, JustFaith Ministries, Sojourners magazine, the Jublilee USA Network, and several other organizations. Dennis is the author or co-author of seven books and editor of the Orbis Book, Choosing Peace: The Catholic Church Returns to Gospel Nonviolence. She received her master’s degree in moral theology from Washington Theological Union and has honorary doctorates from Trinity Washington University and Alvernia University. She is a lay woman and a mother of six.
By MAGGIE GEBHARDT
Chris Janssen Discusses Advocacy, Public Policy Highlights Importance Of Influencing Others During Gaddis Lecture
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hris Janssen graduated from Central Methodist University in 2009, and since has gone on to pursue his passion for promoting advocacy and fighting for causes that are important to him. Janssen presented “Advocacy Everywhere: Lessons Learned From Influencing Public Policy” during CMU’s 35th annual Merrill E. Gaddis Lecture, which was held Thursday, Oct. 11. As the regional advocacy coordinator for Missouri REALTORS®, Janssen promotes advocacy for property rights. He primarily works with local REALTOR® boards, associations, and individual brokers, but also works with local REALTORS® Political
Action Committee (RPAC) and Advocacy committees to develop plans for candidate recruitment and endorsements, elected official engagement, collaboration with stakeholders, and volunteerism. “Advocacy is not just about influencing public policy – I think, now, it’s about influencing public opinion,” Janssen said during his lecture at Central. “If you can control the opinion, you can control the policy.” According to Janssen, a broad range of activities are involved with advocacy campaigns, including research, public education, lobbying, voter education, and funding – all combined to influence public policy. Janssen spoke in depth about identify-
ing problems, devising strategies, making progress, and ultimately working toward achieving solutions. Once a problem is defined, Janssen highlighted the importance of finding root causes by simply asking “why?” in order to draft a path to move forward. Mapping out the internal and external forces is crucial, he said, which includes identifying the players involved, how they will be impacted, and what their responses will be. “The better we understand those, the more likely we’ll achieve the desired result,” he said. It is important to select the right tools to achieve the overall goal, according to Janssen, who said there is great value in figuring out ways to persuade people to change their minds. With that said, as part of the process, one must reach out to the undecided, rally those who share the same views, and initially avoid those who may be opposed. Measuring goals and outcomes – both immediate and long term – is another pivotal step. “If you don’t evaluate the impact of what you’ve achieved, what’s the point?” Janssen said. Most importantly, Janssen spoke about how one must trust the process, adapt, and never stop when working toward a plan. “Even if you don’t succeed, you have to learn from your tactics, figure out how to implement them in the future, and change your campaign for the next time around,” he said. “The most successful advocates never say ‘mission accomplished’ – they continue the education of the public. There’s always more work to do.” Janssen graduated from Central Methodist with honors in political science. He was recruited by both the University’s Honors Program and Eagles varsity football program, and was awarded the 2009 Judge Andrew J. Higgins Award for Excellence in Pre-Law Studies. While working for Missouri REALTORS®, he earned an MPA from the Truman School of Public Affairs at the University of Missouri with an emphasis in public policy and non-profit management.
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Central Methodist University
By MAGGIE GEBHARDT
Forever Eagles
Four Retire From Central Methodist Cathy Thogmorton, editor of Talon Magazine The name Thogmorton stands out to many in the Fayette community, especially when reflecting on Central Methodist University’s history, and the people who were there to help nurture and transform a small, private college into a growing, thriving institution. Cathy Thogmorton is one of the individuals who played a big part in that success story. For fifteen years, she worked for Central Methodist’s Public Relations Department, primarily serving as the editor of Talon Magazine. In August, Thogmorton said goodbye to the place she regularly referred to as “home.” Her last day on campus was Friday, Aug. 17, as she retired from Central Methodist. Born in Denver, Colo., Thogmorton is the daughter of the late Helen Gertrude Puckett and James Pleasant Thogmorton – names still often spoke of in the CMU community, and also prominently displayed on the outside of campus buildings. Her parents met and fell in love while attending then-Central College, both graduating in 1943 and then marrying in 1944. After living in Warrensburg, “they jumped at the opportunity to return to their home base, and in 1955, we moved back to Fayette,” Thogmorton said of her parents and older sister, Louann. Her father became the director of the men’s dorm, McMurry Hall, and shortly thereafter, dean of students. She learned to ride her bicycle on campus, and viewed Central students as teachers, playmates, and babysitters. She remembers Central as the place where she grew up – a place that in her heart, was home. At 17, Thogmorton entered then-CMC as a freshman. “I went through all the joys and trials of four years of studies, roommates, eating in the basement of Holt Hall,” she said. During her senior year, Thogmorton taught English at Boonville High School, and then went on to Lee’s Summit to begin her professional career as a secondary English teacher for 25 years. When she lost her closest friend and decided to retire from teaching, Thogmorton
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made the decision to return “home” to Fayette in 2003 to take care of her parents who were entering their 80s. She was hired by CMC to create its sesquicentennial Talon Magazine, and was then offered the opportunity to continue working with Don Cullimore as an editor. “I became Central green from the age of five. I have loved it, rolled in its grass, cried tears over it, been filled with it,” Thogmorton said. “Deciding to stop working there was an impossible decision, but time passes and needs change – but, I am not leaving Central. I belong to it and it belongs to me. Some things will never change. I am Central.” Kay A. Winegard, registrar “When one thinks of the CMU Registrar’s Office, they simultaneously think of Kay A. Winegard,” said Bri Hilgedick, who worked with Winegard for years and took over as registrar at CMU after she retired. Winegard, a Burlington, Iowa native, celebrated her retirement from CMU with family and friends on Thursday, June 28 in the Inman Student and Community Center on CMU’s main campus. She retired after 46 years of dedicated service to Central, first joining the college in 1972 as an assistant in the Registrar’s Office, and departing as registrar. She was with the Registrar’s Office through the transition from paper to computer, when CMU implemented the SIS system, Jenzabar, in 1985. Her CMU identification number is 5. “Words can’t describe the endless amount of information Kay taught me, not only professionally but personally, too,” Hilgedick said. “We were sad to see her go, but wish her all the best in the next chapter of her life. She will always have a special place at CMU – those whose lives she touched and the staff of the Registrar’s Office.” Winegard, who has a true passion for Central and its mission, is known for saying, “The Registrar’s Office is the keeper of the records and the enforcer of the rules,” and that she did, over the years, while also gain-
ing the trust and respect of those around her. Winegard received an Associate of Arts in English on May 8, 1983 from Central, and achieved that degree while working full time and raising a family. She also received emeritus status at CMU’s Commencement ceremonies in May. She is married to Professor Emeritus Dr. Richard Winegard, and both her children graduated from Central. Winegard is missed on Central’s campus, and will always be remembered as someone who strived to assist students in attaining their educational endeavors, who served CMU with devotion, insight, and vision – someone who loved dark chocolate, and who truly made a powerful and lasting impact on Central Methodist. Mary Hrdina, administrative assistant Mary Hrdina, originally from Silex, Mo., retired from CMU on March 30, but remains a part-time employee as the administrative assistant in Admissions. She began her career at Central in 1993, has held the same position for 25 years, and still maintains many of the same responsibilities. James R. Kluck, admissions counselor James R. Kluck, originally from Junction City, Kan., but a resident of Boonville for 41 years, retired from CMU on July 31. He remains a part-time employee as an admissions counselor, recruiting in southwest Mo. and Texas. He has worked for Central for 15 years, from 1992-1995 and 2007-present, and also has served as the head women’s and men’s golf coach, recruiting coordinator, and assistant football coach.
New Faculty In Athletic Training, Education, Nursing
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entral Methodist University welcomed four new faculty members to its classrooms this fall. Instructing in Athletic Training, Education, and Nursing, new CMU faculty include:
Lisa Bailey, nursing program faculty A Memphis, Tenn. native, Bailey comes to Central Methodist after serving for three years as nursing faculty for Mississippi University for Women in Columbus, Miss. In her role, she was responsible for didactic and clinical instruction, student advising, and serving on various committees. Prior to that position, Bailey was the director of inpatient nursing for Baptist Memorial Hospital Golden Triangle, also in Columbus. She also held previous positions at Baptist Memorial including PRN RN, staff RN, nurse manager, and CNO. Bailey’s professional experience adds up to more than 33 years of nursing care in a variety of hospital and educational settings. In August, 2019, she expects to receive a Doctorate of Nursing Practice in Nursing Administration from Samford University, which is in Birmingham, Ala. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix in Phoenix, Ariz., and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Mississippi University for Women.
Crystal Cooper, nursing program faculty Originally from Concordia, Mo., Cooper joined CMU’s nursing faculty after
serving as staff educator for Lafayette Regional Health Center in Lexington – a 25-bed critical access hospital. She was responsible for orientation and onboarding of new hires, education needs for all staff, annual competencies, staff certifications, presentations and in-services for staff, and the Nurse Residency Program. In that role, she coordinated the implementation of the nationally-recognized Vizient Nurse Residency Program, whose first cohort at that facility began in July, 2016. She also was a driving force in an evidence-based clinical documentation initiative. Before becoming staff educator, Cooper served as a staff nurse at the health center. She also has experience as a tutor for Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, Wis., where she received a bachelor’s degree in nursing. Cooper is currently studying nursing education through the University of Central Missouri, and is working toward achieving a Master of Science in Nursing.
Laura Lewis, assistant professor of education Lewis, from Fayette, Mo., is a CMU alumna and also served as an adjunct instructor for Central since 1998. She became faculty for CMU’s Educational Studies Program after primarily serving as elementary principal for Columbia Public Schools. In that role, she was the building administrator for Benton STEM Elementary School, which serves students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Her duties as principal included teacher supervision and evaluation, curriculum implementation, discipline, parent
involvement, and overall supervision of building activities, programs, and systems. Prior to her position with Columbia Public Schools, Lewis served as a teacher/ literacy coach/literacy coordinator for Moberly School District. She received an Executive Doctor of Education in Educational Administration from Saint Louis University, and both a master’s degree and bachelor’s degree in education from CMU. James L. Moore, assistant athletic training professor Moore, a Warrensburg, Mo. native, comes to CMU while serving as a program associate for Justin Sports Medicine – providing emergency medical care and rehabilitation for the cowboys and cowgirls of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association. He has significant teaching experience, most recently serving as an instructor in the Athletic Training Program for the University of Central Missouri for nearly 10 years. Before that, he was an instructor in athletic training for Park University. For three years, Moore served as the vice president of college services and institutional research at Cox College. Additionally, he’s been a site visitor and site visit review committee member for the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. Moore received a Doctorate of Education from the University of Missouri, a master’s degree in physical education/exercise and sports science, and a bachelor’s degree in physical education/fitness-wellness, both from Central Missouri State University.
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Central Methodist University
Meet CMU’s Recently Hired Staff Members Traci Ballew, Social Media Specialist In her former job with Central Methodist University’s Career Development Center, Traci Ballew got to know students on a personal level – gaining an understanding of their interests, goals, and overall feelings about CMU. Now, she is applying that inside knowledge to her new position as the social media specialist with Central’s Marketing and Communications Department. A newly-created position at the University, the social media specialist is responsible for identifying and executing CMU’s social media strategy, fueling recruitment through digital advertising, and fostering engagement with prospective students, alumni, and friends. “We’re looking forward to watching Traci’s talent and energy in action,” said Scott Queen, director of Marketing and Communications. “Her skillset is a great match for the lofty goals we have in place with our new social media position.” Prior to stepping into the role with Marketing, Ballew worked closely with Nicolette Yevich, director of Central’s Career Development Center, implementing the career management program, Handshake, assisting in promoting and planning events, and working closely with students, which, she said, means a lot to her. “The social media specialist position will allow me to utilize my degree and still contribute to the University I love,”
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Ballew said. “The Marketing Department is allowing me to explore my creativity and still work closely with faculty, staff, and students.” Ballew, a Columbia native, is on track to receive her bachelor’s degree in communication through CMU in May. After achieving that degree, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in communication. Ballew lives just outside of Fayette with her husband, Casey, and children, Camryn and Cayle. She also has a daughter, Shelby, who resides in Hallsville.
Annie Barber, CGES Registration Assistant Annie Barber, from Shawnee, Kansas, who attended Central as a student, is the new College of Graduate and Extended Studies (CGES) admissions/ registration assistant. In her new role, she processes incoming transcripts and files pre-transcript coursework. Her professional background includes being an employee and assistant manager at Casey’s General Store in Kansas City, Overland Park, and then Fayette, before becoming part of the kitchen staff for Fresh Ideas in Columbia. “Annie brings a wealth of relatable data-entry and customer service experience to CMU, and I’m thrilled to bring her on-board with our team,” said Aimee Sage, director of Admissions for CGES. “Her work ethic and eye for detail will serve her well in her role here.”
Candy Cornman, Director Of Security Candy Cornman’s background in law enforcement made her a stand-out candidate for Central Methodist University’s new Director of Security position. It was her passion that made her a good fit. The retired Columbia, Mo. police officer has a love for crisis negotiations, and she’s quite good at it. She boils it down to two simple words: building relationships. Those two words are making her a popular choice to both students at CMU and faculty and staff. “I love talking to people and getting to know them,” she said. “That goes hand in hand with this job.” Cornman retired from the Columbia Police Department after 20 years of service. Prior to that, she spent five years with the Missouri Highway Patrol, and two years with the University of Missouri Police as a cadet. Her last assignment in Columbia was as a student resource officer at Battle High School. She enjoyed interacting with the students there, some of whom are now at CMU seeing her in a new setting. “It was a smooth transition to Central Methodist,” she said. “It’s so refreshing to work here and see the students working hard because they want to be here and make a difference in their lives and their community.” Cornman oversees the security staff
at Central and is responsible for CMU’s Clery Report (a federal crime report). She trains security officers, and will train CMU staff and faculty on active shooter and other scenarios. She and her spouse live in Columbia and have three children and one granddaughter.
Ashley Hassiak, Admissions Counselor Central Methodist University’s Admissions Office welcomed Ashley Hassiak as a new member of its recruitment team. Hassiak, a Westchester County, New York native, represents CMU at college fairs, open houses, and other recruitment events. She focuses on a specific segment of Missouri, and is familiar and acquainted with high school counselors, prospective students, and their parents. “It’s a pleasure to welcome Ashley to the Enrollment Management team. She comes to us with experiences that will enrich our efforts to meet enrollment goals,” said Dr. Joe Parisi, vice president for Enrollment Management at CMU. “Ashley brings a deep passion for higher education, has a natural gift as an admissions counselor, and mirrors CMU’s culture by being driven by innovation and creative energy.” As a part of the admissions team, Hassiak will help students assess their educational background and future goals to see if CMU is a good fit for them, and then guide them through the enrollment process. “Since the first time I stepped foot on CMU’s campus, I got the impression that both staff and students are like a big family – the kind of family I have been searching for since moving from New York,” Hassiak said. “I am really excited to be a part of it, and I cannot wait to make this beautiful campus my home
away from home.” Hassiak previously worked for CVS Pharmacy in Westchester County, N.Y. as a photo lab specialist, and for Walgreens in Columbia as a pharmacy technician and photo lab specialist. She received a bachelor’s degree in international studies from the University of Missouri.
Shelby Scott, Sports Information Director The Central Methodist University Eagles have a knack for success in the classroom, and on the field and court, so it is no surprise that the University’s new sports information director is a winner. Shelby Scott joined the CMU team on August 29, and her skills in athletics are diverse. Scott, who lives in Marshall, Mo., most recently worked at Missouri Valley College as Assistant Women’s Volleyball Coach and Assistant Sports Information Director. Prior to that, she spent four years at Wentworth Military Academy & College, where she served as Head Women’s Volleyball Coach and Director of Sports Information & Events. “I’m happy to join the Central family and be a part of the winning tradition here,” Scott said. “The energy around the campus is infectious, and you can clearly see the University’s commitment to academic success and a winning culture in athletics.” As a communicator, Scott has written game reports and done feature stories on athletes and teams from a variety of sports, as well as handled their statistics. She has worked with area media, and managed websites and multiple social media accounts, and promoted numerous athletic events. She also has experience in athletic corporate sponsorships. “The coaches and I are looking forward to Shelby putting her strong skill-
set to use here at Central,” said Athletics Director Brian Spielbauer. “She is a welcomed addition to the team.” Scott has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Central Missouri in Sport Management. She is married to Andre Scott.
Dustyn Yung, Director Of Student Life Central Methodist University’s Office of Student Development has hired Dustyn Yung, a Glasgow native, as the director of student life. In his position, he oversees Eagle Connect – a program that encourages and rewards students for attending social events, student activities, Greek Life, and the Philips Robb Recreational Center. Before joining Central, Yung served as the director of women’s basketball operations at Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. He coordinated team travel, oversaw the programs operating budget, assisted with recruiting operations, planned and directed campus, plus much more. Yung earned a bachelor’s degree in education and physical education from CMU in 2013. From 2013-2015, he was a graduate assistant women’s basketball coach at Central. He then earned a Master of Education in athletic administration from CMU in 2015. “Central made a huge and positive impact on my life during my undergraduate and graduate days. The opportunity for me to come back and help continue to make CMU a positive experience for current and future students is something I’m so excited about,” Yung said. “Central forever.” Yung currently loves in Columbia with his wife, Kyra, who graduated from CMU in 2012.
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Central Methodist University
Alumni Gather For 44th Annual Band Concert
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espite near 100-degree heat and competition from the Fayette Power Pull, the 44th annual Central Methodist University Alumni Band concert that featured alumni from seven different decades was a great success June 16 at the Inman Student Center. Marvin Manring ’85 and Professor Skip Vandelicht ’77 directed. More than 40 alums participated. The program was highlighted by Autumn by Joseph Kosma, Barnum and Bailey’s Favorite by Karl King, Cyrus the Great by Karl King and Andrew Glover, Declaration Overture by Claude T. Smith, Ignition by Todd Stalter, Prairie Dances by David
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Holsinger, and Stars and Stripes Forever by John Philip Sousa. Manring, a native of Albany, Mo., has taught in Missouri public schools for 33 years. He serves at the Missouri Music Educators Association (MMEA) historian, and is completing a term as president of Southwest District 11. Vandelicht, an associate professor of music at CMU, was appointed director of bands in 2008 after teaching for 31 years in the Fayette R-III School District. He is an active clinician, adjudicator, and conductor for bands in Missouri and surrounding states, and is a member of the Missouri Bandmasters Hall of Fame.
Alums participating included: Flute—Sally Scott Blackburn ’85, Pam Crawford ’15, Casey McDonald ’15, and Kelsy Whitacre ’08; Bassoon—Dawn Evans ’92, and Marti Whelan ’86; Clarinet—Heather Bass ’86, Jamie Bishop ’87, and Ryan Lewis ’17; Alto Sax—Emily Cassidy ’15, John Critchlow ’13, Jenna Maule ’06, Lori Pyatt ’93, and Shelby Rogers ’16; Tenor Sax—Shelby Strodtman ’13, and Eugene Peebles ’87; Bari Sax—Tiffani Hankins ’18; Percussion—Sam Gaddy ’15, Gene Rauscher ’74; Michael Williams (current student); Trumpet—Nick Auer ’65; Zack Fincher ’16, Katelyn Hanvey ’17, Jenn Miner ’93, and Ann Slaybaugh ’87; Horn—Susan Bishop ’18, Shawna Crisler ’15, Susan Henke ’16, Daniel Long ’14, Luke McKinney ’14, and Michael O’Neill ’13; Trombone—Larry Bennett ’69, Max Cassidy ’15, Bridgett Randolph ’97, DaSean Stokes ’17, and Brian Thode ’14; Euphonium—Jerry Byrd ’56, Rick Cowart ’75, and Chuck Dale ’79; Tuba—Alex Kirby ’14.
SOLD
Eagle Athletics Benefits From Auction Support
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early 300 Central Methodist University supporters spent a funfilled evening this summer at the annual Celebration of Eagle Athletics dinner and auction in Boonville. It is CMU’s largest and most anticipated athletic department fundraising event of the year. Athletics Director and emcee Brian Spielbauer summarized the great accomplishments of the 2017-2018 season, and debuted a wonderful video highlighting four individuals who represent the character and honor of CMU athletics. Then the bidding began. Spielbauer said there were hundreds of great items this year in the live auction and the silent auction. Among them were a hunting trip to South Dakota, other marvelous trips to Alaska and Washington state, a private plane trip anywhere in the United States, a big screen television, dozens of Cardinals, Royals, and Blues tickets, and much more. One of the new features of the auction was a mobile app for the silent auction, which also allowed dozens of Eagle enthusiasts who weren’t able to attend the chance to bid on items remotely. Spielbauer said plans are already under way for the 2019 auction.
Large Turnout For Luetjen Golf Event
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he 28th annual Dr. James Luetjen Golf Tournament was a great success. Thirty-two, four-player teams participated in the event this summer at the Rolling Hills Golf Course in Versailles, Mo. Be watching for information about next year’s tournament.
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Central Methodist University Sports
Hall Of Fame Inducts 2018 Class
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entral Methodist University’s rich athletic tradition is commemorated each year with a celebration of greatness – The Hairston Hall of Fame. This year’s class included four individuals and four Eagle teams. The 2018 Hairston Hall of Fame class included Rebeca Barajas (‘15), Tyler Lieberman (‘14), Ken Oliver (‘93), Quintin Norris (‘96), the 1980-81 men’s basketball team, the 2012-2013 men’s golf team, the 2012-13 baseball team, and the 2013-14 softball team.
Rebeca (Barajas) Bounds competed for the CMU women’s track & field program and graduated in 2015. While at Central Methodist, she was a two-time Heart of America Athletic Conference Athlete of the Year, three-time all-American, and she still
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holds school records in six events: the 55m hurdles, 60m hurdles, high jump, triple jump, pentathlon, and heptathlon.
more than 25 years. He graduated from CMU in 1996. He is also known as “The Voice of the Eagles.”
Tyler Lieberman competed for the CMU men’s golf program and graduated in 2014. He was a two-time HAAC Golfer of the Year and was named AllConference all four years. Lieberman also boasts the lowest single-season scoring average in CMU history. He was a member of the 2012-2013 golf team that won the conference championship and qualified for the NAIA national tournament.
Ken Oliver was an integral part of CMU Athletics for over 20 years. Roles he has held include: assistant football coach, assistant track & field coach, head women’s golf coach, Director of Athletics and Vice-President. Oliver graduated from Central Methodist in 1993, and participated in football and track. He led the Campaign for Eagle Athletics in 2007.
Quintin Norris has volunteered countless hours as a public address announcer and sports broadcaster on the radio and webcasts for the Eagles for
The 1980-81 men’s basketball team was comprised of David Fox, Hank Grayson, Bernard King, Kenny Boggs, William Webb, Joe Arnold, Danny Widhalm, Mark Applin, Duane Widhalm,
Ron Mills, Jeff Sherman, Gerald Gerndt, Vince Ketterer (trainer), Garfield Hayden (manager), assistant coach Chris Kelly, and head Coach Kenny Ash. The team finished the season with a 24-7 overall record, and won the first conference championship in over 30 years.
The 2012-13 softball team was comprised of Michele Rupard, Lindie Adair, Jessica Wilmes, Bri Boatwright, Lauren Geringer, Bri Ford, Mary Kate Townley, Megan Robbins, Alyssa Lilly, Hannah Blackmon, Nikki Giovenco, Melanie Wilmsmeyer, Catlin Evans, Mercedes Marriott, Madi Watson, Nicole Beck, Aubrey Utley, Bri Kirkland, Jocelyn Glaze, Chelsea Smith, Ashley Litton and Mollie Crader. The Eagles were led by Coach Pat Reardon, and assisted by Gene Reardon, Ross Dowell, Kayla Yount,
Lyndsey Talbot, Jacque Cappuccilli and Steve Siebert. The team finished 41-10 and won both the HAAC regular season championship and the conference tournament. The team also qualified for the NAIA national tournament.
The 2012-13 baseball team was comprised of Mike Wagner, Brian King, Dustin Ray, Neil Hansen, Daniel Peters, Shane Lowe, Aaron Schuster, Tony Shipp, T.J. Singh, Travis Tompson, Eli Bowers, Brock Grant, Grant Davis, Ryan Weber, Drew Greiwe, Alex Hunter, Colby Stack, Rhett Quinlan, Neal DeMartin, Mike Allen, Marty Shaw, Jesse Zellner, Mason Mershon, Kyle Poynter, Alfredo Souffront, and Tyler Paule. The Eagles were led by head coach Fred Smith, and assisted by Rick Sage, Dane Frazier, Ryan Mansfield and Nate Breland. The team made history
by winning the HAAC and the conference tournament, qualifying for the school’s first-ever appearance in the NAIA national tournament.
The 2012-13 men’s golf team was comprised of Tyler Lieberman, Nathaniel Oliver, Brad Howell, Austin Rapp, Logan McDaniel, and Ryan Rost. The Eagles were led by head coach Jim Kluck and assisted by Bill Rapp. The team won the first conference championship by 28 strokes and qualified for the NAIA national tournament meet for the first time in over 50 years. Members of the Hall of Fame Committee are Dr. James Luetjen, Larry Anderson, Fred Smith, Brian Spielbauer, April Smith, Alan Marshall, Jennifer Pomajzl Hackman, and Vicki Reece.
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Central Methodist University Sports
Memorable Fall For CMU Sports National Tournament Appearances Stack Up
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f one were trying to find a word to describe the fall 2018 sports at Central Methodist University, it would be “historic.”
• Thanks to a vaunted passing attack, the Central Methodist football team went 4-1 at home, including its first victory over Missouri Valley since 2004.
• A new facility was unveiled this summer in the Inman Student & Community Center for the inaugural season for the newly introduced eSports team.
• After winning the regular season conference championship last season, the women’s soccer team kept things rolling with a 14-4 regular season and a runner-up finish in the Heart Postseason Tournament, qualifying for the NAIA National Tournament in back-to-back seasons.
• Men’s soccer capped off a spectacular regular season with its first Heart of America Conference title, ensuring the Eagles of an appearance in the NAIA National Tournament, both happening for the first time in program history. • Inside Puckett Field House, the volleyball team spiked its way to a 30-win season and an appearance in the NAIA National Tournament for the first time in program history.
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• Men’s cross country team had two allconference runners in Elliot Knernschield and Radovan Kemboi, while the women’s cross country team was led by Lisa Sauter’s 8th place finish at the Heart Conference Meet. Kemboi and Sauter both qualified to race in the NAIA Cross Country National Championships.
Men’s Soccer Chalks Up NAIA Tournament Appearance Fueled by the fire of barely missing out on an at-large bid to the NAIA National Tournament last season, the Central Methodist men’s soccer team came out with a vengeance in 2018. Beginning the season ranked No. 18 in the nation, the Eagles kept climbing every week, reaching a program-high No. 3 in the last week of the regular season. With a 9-1-1 record in Heart play, Central Methodist clinched the regular-season conference title in a 3-0 victory over Mount Mercy in the final game of the regular season. This stellar season procured a No. 3 seed in the NAIA National Tournament and a chance to host Huntington (Ind.) in the NAIA Opening Round. For their efforts, eight Eagles earned All-Conference recognition: Vince Gelei (1st Team), Santiago Sierra (1st Team), Wilfried Nyamsi (1st Team), Adrian Gutierrez (1st Team), Daniel Hernandez (1st Team),
Rodrigo Paredes (2nd Team), Junior Kazeem (3rd Team), and Connor Blitz (3rd Team). Hernandez was recognized as the Heart Freshman of the Year, while Nyamsi took home Heart Defensive Player of the Year honors. Gutierrez swept both the Heart Offensive Player of the Year and Heart Player of the Year awards. Head Coach Alex Nichols received Heart Coach of the Year honors after leading a standout campaign for the Eagles. Volleyball Wins 30; Also Punches Ticket to NAIA Tournament Under Head Coach Allison Jones-Olson, the Central Methodist volleyball team has been knocking on the door of qualifying for nationals the last few seasons. This year, the Eagles broke through, qualifying for the NAIA National Tournament after finishing as the runner-up in the Heart Postseason Tournament. Using an infusion of transfers to fill the void left by last year’s graduating class, Central Methodist clicked early, winning its first seven games, and beginning the
season 17-1. With a record of 30-6, the Eagles earned the right to host Brescia (Ky.) in the NAIA National Tournament opening round. Football Entertains Home Crowds Fall of 2018 brought a program-record 51 new players into the program and new energy to Fayette. Two of those new faces, Dante Vandeven and Katavious Taylor, lit up defenses all season long at Davis Field. Both players found themselves at the top of the conference in production, week after week. Darius Henton led the Eagles defense with 111 tackles on the season, including a career-high 20 tackles on two occasions. Central Methodist went 4-1 at home, including a come-frombehind victory over rival Missouri Valley. It marked the first time the Eagles topped the Vikings since 2004. Women’s Soccer Records Another Great Season One season removed from a magical conference championship run, the Central
Methodist women’s soccer team returned every starter and began the 2018 season with high aspirations. After a few tight losses in the non-conference portion of the schedule, the mighty Eagles looked mortal. A remarkable stretch in conference play earned Central Methodist a No. 3 seed in the Heart Postseason Tournament. Thanks to a double-overtime goal from Anika Kallash at No. 25 MidAmerica Nazarene in the Heart semifinals, the Eagles punched their ticket to the NAIA National Tournament for the second season in a row. Sporting a 16-5 record, Central Methodist is set to travel to face No. 13 seed Hastings College (Neb.) in the NAIA National Tournament Opening Round. For their efforts, eight Eagles earned All-Conference recognition: Luci Brasil (1st Team), Rachel Topliss (1st Team), Kallash (1st Team), America Garcia (2nd Team), Ashlynn Freeman (2nd Team), Judith Sainz (2nd Team), Mireia Lopez (2nd Team) and Kayla Deaver (3rd Team).
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