TODAY
FALL 2017
LOP
MAGAZINE
®
HOMECOMING 2017 Meet our distinguished alumni award recipients.
LIFE
INDEX
UNK Today is published twice a year by the UNK Alumni Association and the University of Nebraska Foundation and is the official alumni publication of the University of Nebraska at Kearney.
VICE PRESIDENT OF ALUMNI RELATIONS & DEVELOPMENT Lucas Dart ‘97 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI COMMUNICATION Michelle (Thompson) Widger ‘90 ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT Tricia (Sunderman) Danburg ‘94 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Toni (Winsor) Meyers ‘93 EDITOR, ART DIRECTOR AND GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michelle Widger ‘90 UNK Alumni Association Assistant Director of Alumni Communication EDITOR EMERITUS Jim Rundstrom ‘64 UNK Alumni Association Director Emeritus MANAGING EDITOR Dorothy Endacott NU Foundation Vice President Marketing Communications ASSISTANT EDITOR Kelly Bartling UNK Assistant Vice Chancellor Communications & Community Relations PHOTOGRAPHY UNK Alumni Association Corbey Dorsey/UNK Athletics UNK Communications UNK ALUMNI ASSOCIATION LEAD COUNCIL Jack Kreman ‘04, President, Noblesville, Indiana Angela (Reynolds) Davidson ’09, MBA ‘10, Grand Island Curt Ott ‘07, Kearney Jerry Fox ’72, Kearney Dusty Jura ‘08, MBA ‘15, Axtell Mary (Buchanan) Mach ‘85, Fairbury Dusty Newton, MSE ‘02, Kearney POSTMASTER: PLEASE SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:
UNK TODAY UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA AT KEARNEY CAMPUS BOX 21 KEARNEY, NE 68849
LIFE
EDITORIAL
“Love is not a noun. It’s a verb,” said the bearded philosophy professor speaking to a couple dozen freshmen students. My name is Jack Kreman, and I am your alumni association president. UNK is my passion. Within one month of graduation from UNK, I took a job for the national office of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. I spent the next two years traveling the U.S. observing different colleges and universities. I learned many things, including an increased love for our special institution in Kearney. I dearly love UNK. I believe UNK is special because its people are special. UNK professors are gifted researchers, but all answer to the higher calling of education – teaching. UNK educators come to work with a love for instilling a joy for learning. They love the educational promise UNK delivers. UNK administrators advocate daily for dwindling resources to preserve the unique opportunities we provide to students. Students who might not have another alternative. Students like me. For many UNK students, nothing is given. Everything is earned. In a world of cynicism and doubt, places like UNK teach us that hope and ambition still exist. The greatest benefit of serving as alumni association president is meeting people who are as passionate as I am for UNK. I have met a world full of alumni who remember fondly their days as Lopers. Many credit UNK for being the catalyst in
their life. While wealth, recognition and prestige are important, Lopers embrace a deeper definition of happiness which is reflected in their joy for life and the company of others. My term as your alumni association president will end soon. The LEAD Council and I have labored these past two years to bring about a better alumni association and, more importantly, a better UNK. I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to pay it forward. UNK is where I met my wife. UNK is where I joined the organization that has been my employer for 13 years. UNK was more than just a college – it was a rite of passage. For more reasons than I have words, I love UNK. Thinking back to that hot September day in Thomas Hall, I recall Dr. Tom Martin reciting a line from The Republic. I recall the panic I felt when he called on me to ask about the reading which I hadn’t read. It had to do with love as defined by Plato. My answer wasn’t satisfactory. He turned and told the class, “Love is not a noun. It’s a verb.” I don’t remember the grade I received in the class, but I have always remembered that profound statement. It drives me every day. For those of you who love UNK as I do, I encourage you to turn that noun into a verb. Love UNK actively. Get involved. Reach out to the LEAD Council with ideas. Return to campus. Take a tour. Attend a game. Make new friends at a Lopers After Hours. Volunteer. Donate. Love by action. Our love makes UNK extraordinary. 2
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DESIGNING WOMEN
SUPPLY CHAIN
8-10 CELEBRATED ALUMNI
Two UNK alumnae utilize their interior
“When looking at a field of study,
Distinguished alumni were celebrated at
design degrees in co-ownership of
look not only at the curriculum, but
the 2017 UNK Homecoming in September.
Lincoln Cabinet. Learn more about the
what services or support are offered,”
Learn more about our award recipients and
challenging aspects of owning a business said Greg Benson, the supply chain in a competitive environment.
how we honored them.
management program coordinator and assistant professor in marketing at UNK. Learn more about this program and what it has to offer.
11-13 14-17 HALL OF FAME
IT'S IN THE JOURNEY
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Mission Education.................... 18-19 Rawson Scholarship................ 20-21 Honored Alumni........................ 22-23 Memories of War............................24 Village Flats......................................25 Lopers Come Home.................. 26-27 Class Notes................................ 28-35
Five former student athletes were
COVER STORY: What is it like to quit
inducted into the UNK Athletic Hall
your job, sell everything and live life out
of Fame during the Friday evening
of a 8' x 6' van? Read the details and see
banquet of Homecoming 2017. Read
the amazing pictures in this article.
stats and biographies on the celebrated
Schedule of Events.........................36
FACEBOOK.COM/UNKALUMNI TWITTER.COM/UNKALUMNI LINKEDIN.COM > work > groups > University of Nebraska at Kearney
athletes.
LOPERS@UNKALUMNI.ORG
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DESIGNINGWOMEN
Samantha Shaw '17 Alumna Guest Writer
Two University of Nebraska at Kearney alumnae design their way to the top in Lincoln. FEATURE Lori (Pippitt) Wellman ’96 and Heidi (Melvin) Polacek ’04 are now co-owners of Lincoln Cabinet in Lincoln specializing in custom cabinetry and interior renovations. Wellman grew up in Sidney and graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) with a degree in kitchen and bath design. “I decided my sophomore year at UNK I wanted to become an interior designer,” Wellman said. “I was undecided on a major and did a work-study position in
the department of family and consumer sciences and learned about the kitchen and bath portion of the program. I took a few classes, learned about the program, built a report with a lot of the teachers and declared my major.” Polacek grew up in Hastings and also graduated from UNK with a degree in kitchen and bath design. She had taken drafting classes in junior high. “The teacher told me I had a real knack for it, and I decided to continue drafting class
into high school and took drafting all four years along with an interior design class,” Polacek states. “I debated between interior design and architecture and ended up choosing interior design.” Wellman completed her internship in Fort Collins, Colorado. She started working at Lincoln Cabinet after her internship and has been there for 20 years. Polacek started with an internship in Grand Island. She then worked at Home Depot for two years and has since been at Lincoln Cabinet for 10 years. “I was looking for a job that had other designers; I wanted a professional workplace rather than a home store environment,” Polacek said. “I wanted to work with professional people that could teach me more than what I knew.” Lincoln Cabinet not only sells cabinetry, counter tops and tile for kitchens and bathrooms but they also do the general contracting for their remodel jobs. They offer a turn-key, full-package project for their clients. “That appealed to me because it allows you to see the job from start to finish,” Wellman said.
CO-OWNERS Lori (Pippitt) Wellman ‘96 (left) and Heidi (Melvin) Polacek ‘04 (right) both hold a degree in kitchen and bath design and co-own Lincoln Cabinet. 4
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Lincoln Cabinet has earned the Showplace President’s Club Award for 15 years, placing them as top designers nationwide. “The continued growth and success is made possible by the hard work and dedication of successful, valued dealerpartners like Lincoln Cabinet,” said Showplace President and CEO Paul Sova.
Lincoln Cabinet has been in business for more than 50 years. “We have a very good reputation in town and throughout the surrounding areas, therefore many of our customers come from referrals from previous clients.” Polacek enjoys her line of work and taking a project from start to finish. “You really get to know your clients and help them complete a project that meets their needs.” After being in the industry for so long and now as owners, they have the opportunity to change and prioritize things to make sure everything gets taken care of. They also have weekly meetings to discuss projects with their team. “We want to be attentive to our clients and employees, yet still have time for our families,” Wellman said. “It takes good support staff to help us do everything we do.” Many professors at UNK helped mentor Wellman. “They encouraged me to look into programs, assisted me with guidance and helped me discover connections with people on campus.” Dr. Phyllis Markussen, retired chair of family studies & interior design, was also a
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mentor for the both of them. “She always encouraged us to apply what we were learning to the real world and further our education beyond school,” Polacek said. Polacek’s advice to students is to gain as much experience as possible and never be afraid to ask questions. Wellman expresses the importance of taking advantage of opportunities presented and be serious about internships. “I gained a lot of knowledge from mine, and it’s a plus to have experience before you graduate.” Wellman and Polacek attend the annual trade show for the industry, the international builders show and the kitchen and bath show to keep up with trends and gain new ideas. Looking ahead, they want to make sure people know that their company has grown. “Many people aren’t aware that Lincoln Cabinet is more than just kitchens and bathrooms. We have the ability to help people with many areas of their homes. We do bars, basements and offices,” said Wellman. “We are excited to let people know about this new adventure.”
READ MORE STORIES LIKE THESE ON FACEBOOK @UNKAlumni
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Lori Wellman graduated from UNK with a degree in kitchen and bath design. In her spare time she enjoys golfing, traveling, spending time with family and friends and attending sporting events. Heidi Polacek graduated from UNK with a degree in kitchen and bath design. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her family and cooking with her husband, a professional chef. She and her husband recently remodelled their 1941 farmhouse.
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COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY
SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT Responding to marketplace demands, the University of Nebraska at Kearney developed an emphasis in the area of supply chain management.
“I’ve made a little bit of money and I’ve made a lot of money,” said Greg Benson. Benson is the supply chain management (SCM) program coordinator and assistant professor in marketing at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK). “It doesn’t make a difference how much you make if you aren’t happy with the job you are doing. Work is more fun and rewarding when you enjoy it.”
SCM is an emphasis in the College of Business and Technology; students will earn a bachelor of science in business administration with an emphasis in SCM. SCM is the movement of goods, information or services through the distribution channels from the original supplier until the final consumer uses the product. To put it simply, it’s the movement of products.
“In my opinion, there’s room for everyone in the program,” Benson said. “If you are someone who likes to solve problems, make a difference within an organization and be responsible for a variety of tasks — those are the characteristics needed in SCM students.” About six years ago, UNK became the first school in the state to provide a SCM program. Businesses like Cash-Wa, 6
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To learn more about the SCM program at UNK visit unk.edu
Samantha Shaw '17 Alumna Guest Writer Corbey Dorsey, UNK Communications Photographer
Cash-Wa Distributing’s Chad Henning gives a tour of the Kearney facility to UNK supply chain management students. The program at UNK has launched a new business center that will give students internship preparatory training.
Brown Transfer and Warner Enterprises met with UNK and suggested the program emphasizing the benefits. Since then, companies have been incredible supporters of the program. Cash-Wa, Kearney Regional Medical Center, Buckle, GIX Logistics, Warner Enterprises and many more companies are on the supply chain advisory counsel. Benson introduced the program to 30-40 companies to build interest in having college students as interns. The paid internship programs are typically 12 weeks and reinforce what the students learn. In addition to talking with companies, the program hosts a career fair each spring where companies come to campus to talk with and interview SCM students for internships and full-time jobs. “Most students get internship offers from the fair,” Benson said. During the fall, students invite companies to the SCM monthly meetings. The companies have the opportunity to talk to students about supply chain opportunities within their organizations. Each semester, students tour different companies to learn first-hand about supply chain within their businesses.
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“There are lots of different contact point opportunities between students and company representatives,” Benson said. “It works well to help students in finding their internships.” Benson expects and encourages students to show initiative and contact companies. In Benson’s classroom, he has students identify their top-core values. When students start interviewing for jobs, he tells them to look at companies that align best with their values. Last year, 20 students graduated from the program and all but one had a job before graduation. “Initially, many students don’t know about the program,” Benson said. “But when they find the program, take a couple classes and meet a few companies, students tell me this is exactly what they wanted to do.” Another option available is where students are employed by UNK but work for outside companies through the program. One student is currently working for Sandhills Publishing as an account manager while being paid through UNK.
“We hope to grow this program so students have opportunities while they are on campus to work for companies from a remote location,” Benson said. The department dean and chair support and encourage the program by funding opportunities to go on business trips and tours. “It has really been a team effort,” Benson said. “We have lots of people supporting this program.” This is Benson’s third year with the program. Only 16 students started in the program and today there are 65. “The program is growing pretty quickly,” Benson said. “I think the biggest contributor for the growth is students sharing their experiences.” The goal for the program is to grow to 100 students within the next two years. “We have more companies with opportunities than students coming out of the program,” Benson said. “Until it goes the other way around, where there are more students than companies, we will keep recruiting.” “It’s rewarding when you know you had an impact on helping a student find a career they enjoy,” Benson said.
HOMECOMING 2017
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI Sydney Norris, UNK Alumni Student Writer
Six alumni recognized during UNK homecoming festivities. The 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Awards went to Col. (Ret.) Jan R. Frye '72, LeRoy Swedlund '69 and Shannon (Welch) Vesely '77, MAE '79. The Jim Rundstrom Distinguished Service Award went to
Do you know someone whose professional and volunteer accomplishments deserve to be recognized? Each year, the UNK Alumni Association recognizes UNK graduates who have achieved distinction either in their professional fields or through their involvement in civic, cultural or charitable activities. We invite you to nominate individuals who deserve to be recognized. The award guidelines and a nomination form can be found at unkalumni.org/awards. If you know of a deserving graduate, submit your nomination to tricia.danburg@unkalumni.org by April 1, 2018. The award recipients will be recognized during homecoming weekend festivities September 2018. Annual Awards include: • Distinguished Alumni Award • Distinguished Young Alumni Award • Jim Rundstrom Distinguished Service Award
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Brenda (Snodgrass) Christensen '83 and the Distinguished Young Alumni Award went to Dusty Reynolds '04. The International Alumni Award, which is awarded for the first time, went to Francisco Hildago-Suarez MBA '80. Distinguished Alumni Awards Col. (Ret.) Jan R. Frye '72 of Woodbridge, Virginia, was appointed as the deputy assistant secretary for acquisition and logistics at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in 2005. Frye manages and oversees the development and implementation of policies and procedures for departmentwide acquisition and logistics programs supporting all VA facilities. A native of Chester, Frye entered the Army in 1973 as a distinguished military graduate from the University of Nebraska at Kearney Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program. In 2011, Frye was appointed to serve as a member of the committee for purchase from people who are blind or severely disabled. Prior to his current VA appointment, Frye served as the chief of contracting for the U.S. Department of Transportation in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. A retired U.S. Army Colonel, Frye served in several senior acquisitions and logistics positions during his 30-year career. His numerous military awards and 8
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HOMECOMING 2017
Col. (Ret.) Jan R. Frye '72
LeRoy Swedlund '69
Shannon (Welch) Vesely '77, MAE '79
decorations include the Legion of Merit. Frye earned his education degree from Kearney State College in 1972. He also holds degrees from Florida Institute of Technology and the National Defense University. Frye is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, the Defense Systems Management College and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He holds the acquisition professional development program’s highest certification in program management and contracting. LeRoy Swedlund '69 is an independent, small business/start-up business consultant in Omaha. Involved in his business role, Swedlund has worked at IBM and AM International. He was the vice-president, general manager and CEO for Information Systems, Inc. Swedlund is currently engaged with H4 Technology in Omaha. Swedlund is an active volunteer with the Presbyterian Church USA and The College World Series. He has also served on the Omaha Rotary Club board and as
the chair of the Omaha Rotary Operation Hippocrates committee, a healthcare relief organization dedicated to providing cardiac screenings for children living in impoverished areas. For more than 25 years, he has been a part of the hands-on coordination of pediatric cardiac medical missions in Belize. Swedlund has had the opportunity to travel each year for the clinics to help screen for congenital heart diseases and arrange for care in the U.S. Swedlund, a graduate of Hastings High School, earned his business administration degree from Kearney State College in 1969. Shannon (Welch) Vesely '77, MAE '79, from Bloomfield, Iowa, currently serves as a literacy and instructional consultant for Iowa schools after 40 years of serving as an educator. Vesely has taught English in Spring Green, Wisconsin; Bloomfield, Iowa and Ottumwa, Iowa. She was an English professor at Buena Vista University-Ottumwa Center and Indian Hills Community College, both in Ottumwa, Iowa. Vesely also served
the Ottumwa Community Schools as the director of school improvement. Because of Vesely’s passion for students and her school district, Vesely nominated the Ottumwa Community School District for the first-ever awarded School District of Character from The Iowa Character Counts program through Drake University. Vesely has worked diligently with educators from many states to design national assessments and create curriculum for public schools. She has worked with Iowans for Higher Standards to promote, defend and implement the Iowa Core Standards in Iowa public schools. Vesely’s passion for students drives her to continually improve school systems in every way she possibly can. Vesely, a Kearney native, graduated from Kearney State College with a Bachelor’s degree in 1977 and Master’s degree in 1979, both in English.
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Distinguished Alumni continued on the next page.
HOMECOMING 2017
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Brenda (Snodgrass) Christensen '83 Jim Rundstrom Distinguished Alumni Service Award Brenda (Snodgrass) Christensen '83 of Minden is a key account manager with CenterPoint Energy Services. She previously worked as a manager for Seminole Energy Services, an account representative with Super-Valu Foods and an account manager with Hallmark Cards. Christensen has won many awards and served on several committees and boards, including the UNK Gold Torch Society mentor and board member, UNK College of Business and Technology board, woman of the year award for the MidNebraska Advertising Association, SuperValu Foods district of the year award member and Hallmark vanguard sales award winner for five years. Christensen served on the UNK Alumni Association Board for ten years, including serving as president and past president. She is active in and around the Minden and Kearney communities, as well as with UNK.
Dusty Reynolds '04
Francisco HidalgoSuarez MBA '80
Christensen, a Wood River native, graduated from Kearney State College in 1983 with degrees in business administration and home economics with a fashion merchandising emphasis.
Business Journal Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Reynolds is a graduate of Logan View High School. He graduated from UNK in 2004 with a degree in industrial distribution.
Distinguished Young Alumni Award Dusty Reynolds '04 is the CEO of RaceNote in Omaha. RaceNote is a motorsports management platform that works to improve the technology for race teams to make quicker and better decisions. In 2004, Reynolds co-founded D&T Shirtified, before starting the Sababu Conscious Clothing in Mali, West Africa, in 2009. The focus of the company was to manufacture clothes in an effort to help alleviate poverty through sustainable employment. Reynolds also served as the director of entrepreneurship and innovation for the Greater Omaha Chamber before starting RaceNote. Reynolds has received numerous awards for his entrepreneurship and leadership roles, including the 2016 Midlands
International Alumni Award Francisco Hidalgo-Suarez MBA '80 of Longboat Key, Florida, currently serves as the managing director of Latin America for Kybora Emerging Markets in Sarasota, Florida. Hidalgo-Suarez has more than 34 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. He has held positions with Procaps, Bristol-Myers Squibb and Schering-Plough Corporation. Hidalgo-Suarez received his Bachelor’s degree from Fundación Universidad de Bogota Jorge Tadeo Loranzo, Bogota, Columbia, in 1978. He received his MBA from Kearney State College in 1980.
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ATHLETICS
SEE MORE SPORTS NEWS AT LOPERS.COM
Peter Yazvac, UNK Athletics Writer
®
Athletic Hall of
FAME
Five former student-athletes were inducted into the University of Nebraska at Kearney Athletic Hall of Fame during ceremonies on homecoming weekend. The 2017 Hall of Fame members are wrestler Dr. Bryce Abbey `04; basketball player Mike Hancock,`98; volleyball player Erin (Gudmundson) Haussermann`06; basketball player Allison (Kruger) Monson`04 and football player/track athlete Travis Vallin`91. The group was honored at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK)Athletic Hall of Fame banquet. Dr. Bryce Abbey is one of six UNK wrestlers to be a four-time All-American. Competing at 125 pounds throughout his career, he placed fourth, third, third and fifth at the NCAA Championships. Winning two RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) and West Region titles, he also became UNK’s alltime leader in career wins. His total of 134 broke the record of 121 that had stood for more than a decade. Currently, only twotime Olympian, Tervel Dlagnev, has more wins (167) than Abbey. The 2002 RMAC Freshman of the Year, Abbey was part of four teams that placed in the Top 10 at the NCAA Championships. That included in 2003
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when UNK notched its first-ever national runner-up finish, scoring 73.5 points. Abbey also helped the Lopers win four straight RMAC/West Region titles and the 2003 National Duals. To win national duals, UNK beat then rival Nebraska-Omaha, 24-14, in the finals. Off the mats, he was a four-time Wrestling Coaches Association AllScholar team member, making the first-
team three times. In 2005, Abbey became the first Loper wrestler to be awarded an NCAA postgraduate scholarship. Abbey currently is an assistant professor and the employee and wellness director in UNK’s Kinesiology and Sports Sciences Department. He holds two degrees from UNK (B.S. in exercise science and master’s in education) and a Ph.D. in human sciences from UNL.
Dr. Bryce Abbey '04, MAE '06
Erin (Gudmundson) Haussermann '06
Mike Hancock '98
Allison (Kruger) Monson '04
Travis Vallin '91, '92
He and wife, Erin, live in Kearney with their son, Kade, and daughter, Sloane. Erin (Gudmundson) Haussermann was a dominant middle blocker for Loper volleyball teams that reached three consecutive Elite Eights from 2003-2005. Those squads went 109-10, ran off 40 straight wins in 2004 and 66 consecutive home victories. In 2005, UNK hosted the Elite Eight in front of record-breaking crowds and finished as national runner up. Haussermann was tabbed the AVCA (American Volleyball Coaches Association) Division II Player of the Year that fall, capping a career in which she smashed home a school-record 2,189 kills. The total bested the previous record by almost 500. UNK’s only three-time volleyball AllAmerican, Haussermann still holds school records for career kills per set (4.35) and block assists (415). Hitting .370, she had a career-high 27 kills in a 2005 national quarterfinals win over Truman State. A rare four-time, first-team AllRMAC selection, she was the 2002 RMAC Freshman of the Year and the Player of the
Year in 2004 and 2005. Haussermann also made the All-RMAC Tournament team three times, earning MVP honors in 2005. An all-around star athlete at Kearney Catholic High School, Haussermann displayed those skills at UNK as she placed 11th at the 2003 NCAA Indoor Championships in the high jump. She still ranks sixth (5-6.75) on the Loper all-time top 10. She currently owns her own dog grooming business in Centennial, Colorado. Hausermann lives in Greeley with her husband, Jon, a former Loper wrestler. They have three children; Ian, Declan and Cora. Mike Hancock remains the most prolific three-point shooter in UNK men’s basketball history sinking 285 from 199598. Only one other Loper has managed to make 200 threes in a career. The guard also set the UNK standard for three-pointers made in a season (92/1997-98) and game (nine). The game record, since tied, came in a 103-102 win over Fort Hays State where Hancock sunk nine of 12 shots. A year earlier in the Health & Sports Center, Hancock and the
Lopers ended the Tigers’ 49-game winning streak, 96-84. Currently eighth on the career scoring list (1,796), Hancock still holds the school record for steals in a career (271). Only one other Loper has reached 200 steals. A two-time All-RMAC selection, Hancock made the RMAC All‑Tournament team three times, including in 1998 when he was named MVP. In that season, UNK won the event for the first time, beating Fort Hays State in the semifinals and Colorado StatePueblo in the finals. Part of three NCAA Tournament squads, Hancock also recorded 395 assists in his career, fifth most in school history. Holding a B.S. in physical education from UNK, he has worked at Inspro Insurance for the past 16 years, currently serving as vice president. Hancock and wife, Tammy, live in Wahoo with their four children; Owen, Addysen, Griffin and Jaxson. Allison (Kruger) Monson is one of only two UNK women’s basketball players to be a two-time All-American. 12
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Athletic Hall of Fame, Cont’d. ®
Also a two-time RMAC Player of the Year, Monson battled through injuries to score 1,682 points (13.7 avg.) and grab 788 rebounds (6.4 avg.) between 1999-2004. She currently ranks third in career scoring average and field goal percentage (53.2), fourth in total rebounds and sixth in blocks (91). A two-time CoSIDA Academic All-District selection, Monson twice was named first-team All-RMAC and to the RMAC All-Tournament team. Over five seasons, which included a medical redshirt, she was a part of five NCAA Tournament teams, 122 wins and four RMAC Championships. Monson also helped UNK push its home court winning streak to 87 consecutive games, still an NCAA Division II record. She hit a last second shot to beat Missouri Western State for win 75. After graduating with a B.S. in education, Monson remained in basketball, serving as an assistant coach at Wayne State College (WSC) and the University of South Dakota before becoming head coach at Southwest
Minnesota State University (SMSU). She helped WSC win two league titles and twice reach the NCAA Tournament. Currently serving as SMSU’s compliance officer and director of student-athlete academic affairs, she holds a master’s in sports management from WSC. Monson lives with her husband, Scott, in Marshall, Minnesota. Travis Vallin was a stand out on the football and track teams from 1987-1990. He remains one of the most prolific receivers and return man in Loper football history as well as being a track record holder. On the gridiron, Vallin was part of the transition not only from NAIA to NCAA Division II but also from an offense that started to emphasize the pass more. He and fellow hall of fame member, Doug Banks, were a big reason for the switch. Vallin ended his career with 108 receptions for 1,866 yards and 13 TD’s. At the time of graduation, he ranked second only to Banks in career receiving yards. Averaging 21.8 yards per catch in 1989, Vallin helped the Lopers win six games in 1987 and 1990. His senior campaign, UNK’s first in Division II, saw victories over South Dakota State University, West Texas A&M and Northwest Missouri State University (NMSU).
Bringing back 60 kickoffs for 1,381 yards (23.0 avg.) in his career, Vallin amassed 162 return yards and a touchdown in the 1990 win over NMSU. This versatile skill set led him to a free agent deal with the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals. On the track, the 1987 USA Today Male Kansas Athlete of the Year still holds the Loper record in the 400-meter hurdles (51.95), set at the 1991 NCAA Outdoor Championships. He also ranks eighth at 400 meters (48.36). Vallin earned NAIA All-Americans honors in the 400-meter hurdles by finishing sixth in 1989. He then became UNK’s first-ever male division two outdoor All-American as he finished third in the 400-meter hurdles in 1991. In the classroom, he was named a 1989 NAIA Scholar Athlete. Earning an airway Science management degree, Vallin was the Colorado Aeronautics Director for 20 years. He now is principal owner of Jviation, an airport engineering firm in Denver. Vallin and his wife, Deb, live in Watkins, Colorado. Son, Tyler, plays football at Colorado Mesa and, daughter, Kayla, is a former basketball player at Kansas Wesleyan.
A NIGHT OF INDUCTION The 2017 Hall of Fame members are basketball player Mike Hancock,`98; basketball player Allison (Kruger) Monson`04; volleyball player Erin (Gudmundson) Haussermann`06; football player/track athlete Travis Vallin`91 and wrestler Dr. Bryce Abbey `04.
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RADICAL SABBATICAL
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See more of Re's pictures at unkalumni.org/news
Gabe Re ‘06 Guest Alumni Writer Gabe Re Photographer
Two alumni tell what it is like to quit their jobs, sell everything and live life on the road for one year! For one year, my wife, Meghan (Schaepler) '06, and I shook up our comfy little lives in Denver, Colorado, and hit the road for an adventure of a lifetime. We quit our jobs, sold our house, cars and most of our stuff. We traded the comforts of a home and a stationary life for a 92 square-foot converted cargo van and the freedom of the open road. In one year, we have zigzagged the back roads of the U.S. and Canada, from the rocky shores of Maine to the dusty deserts of the American Southwest and all the roadside wonders in between. We have visited 45 states and 11 countries, explored 26 national parks and logged almost 40,000 miles in our big white van we call “Vanderson Cooper (Coopy).”
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We have hiked through slot canyons in Utah, swam in the Great Lakes of Michigan and sampled local foods across the country. We have made time to do all the things we put off in our busy lives. We have read more, played outside more and spent more time with friends and family in one year than we have in the previous ten years combined. It hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Living in a tiny van with your significant other has its challenges. For every night we’ve spent watching the sunset from a postcard worthy location, there has been a night lost in an unfamiliar city or a night spent sleeping in a Walmart parking lot eating Ramen noodles for dinner. We had mechanical issues in New Mexico and a bike stolen in Arizona. Even with a few minor set backs, it has been a year we’ll never forget and one that will fill our cubicle daydreams for years to come. We have learned that it is experiences, not things, that make us the happiest and as long as we’re together, life is good.
FEATURE
Life on the road isn't always glamorous. Sometimes it is ramen noodles heated over a makeshift stove or breakfast in bed; but the coffee is hot and the views out your front door are phenomenal.
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CANADIAN ROCKIES Johnston Canyon's Lower Falls in Banff National Park, Canada.
HERE'S THE STEEPLE Internal view of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. Antoni GaudĂ, one of the most famous figures of Catalan culture and world architecture, spent more than 40 years designing the Temple of the Sagrada Familia.
PICTURES IN THE CLOUDS Rising from the heart of the Tularosa Basin is one of the world's great natural wonders, the White Sands National Monument in Southern New Mexico. Great wave-like dunes of gypsum sand have engulfed 275 square miles of desert, creating the world's largest gypsum dunes.
UNWANTED SPECTATOR Everglades National Park in Florida is the largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. and the first national park in the country established to protect an ecosystem and the abundance of wildlife.
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RADICAL SABBATICAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14-15.
UNK eCAMPUS Alyssa Wyant '11, eCampus Writer Captain Cory Halvorson Master of Arts in History '16
n o i ss i -M
EDUCATION Two tours, travel and commitments did not stand in the way of an education.
As a child, Capt. Cory Halvorson, MA ’16 had no problem passing up the comic books and cartoon strips. Instead, he developed a love for non-fiction and found it easier to get his hands on history books. Son to a single mother, Halvorson knew responsibility at a young age. On occasion, when his mom was at work, he would
cook and care for his younger sister. He recalls entertaining her with “Lawrence of Arabia,” which began introducing them to history. Over time, that history relevance would aid in inspiring Halvorson to major in history at Northern Arizona University in his hometown of Flagstaff, Arizona. In 2011, Halvorson received his
commission into the United States Air Force (USAF) through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program at Northern Arizona University. History continued to infatuate him. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science in history. As Halvorson continued to work up the ranks of the USAF, he knew he would need to 18
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pursue a higher degree to continue to be promoted. Halvorson began his hunt for a master’s degree that was both credible and convenient. “I couldn’t really settle into a general university for two years, nor would my schedule really allow it, which is just the unpredictability of being an aviator. So, I needed to find something that was online and that was credible. Something I would be proud to have on my wall in order to spend the time, money and effort to get my master’s degree,” Halvorson recalls. That’s when the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) came onto his radar. When Halvorson began the Master of Arts in history online program in 2014, he was in Minot, South Dakota. He was also deployed to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam for six months, where he was considered the new guy among three senior aviators. Only allowed to bring two bags, Halvorson dedicated one entire bag to his books for the online program in hopes to continue coursework during his deployment. His roommates were skeptical about the new guy with all the books. Upon acceptance into the squadron and receiving his call sign, Halvorson earned the nickname “Blitz” due to a number of history books he carried with him for his Nazi Germany course. During his time in the online program, he would be deployed twice to Guam—a 16-hour time difference to Nebraska—for about a year total. Being a normal student was key for Halvorson, so he never disclosed his rank to his professors but mentioned that he would let them know when he was tasked with an operation. He recalls how accommodating his professors were in making it possible to receive a higher education and complete his missions.
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“I could be tasked with last-second missions or a last-minute authority that I had to fly that day. I wasn’t going to make certain assignment deadlines, and all of my teachers were very accommodating, even without telling them that I was military outright because I didn’t really want to abuse that privilege,” Halvorson recalls. Halvorson praised the faculty in the history department for understanding there is a life outside of the classroom and, more importantly, his obligations to the military. “Faculty are very accommodating and extremely helpful, and they understand the demands for service men and women who, at the drop of the hat, might have to go do something and not be able to meet that Wednesday deadline,” Halvorson remarked. “They were very willing to make their schedules work for me.” So, what’s next for Halvorson? He’s hoping to receive his Ph.D. and eventually teach at the university level, preferably going back to his roots at the Air Force preparatory school. Today, Halvorson has taken on a dual role of chief of flight scheduling and B-52H aircraft commander for the 69th Bomb Squadron, commonly referred to as the Knighthawks.
For more information, visit www.ecampus.unk.edu
“I needed to find
something that was online and that was credible. Something I would be proud to have on my wall in order to spend the time, money and effort to get my
Home or away? We’ve got you covered. For more information on earning an online degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, visit
www.ecampus.unk.edu. 40+ Online Programs 400+ Online Courses
master’s degree.” ~Captain Cory Halvorson MA in History ’16
PORTRAITS IN PHILANTHROPY
RAWSON SCHOLARSHIP
Students Say Thanks Scholarship fund helps students for decades.
For more than a decade, the Jean (Sullivan) Rawson and Richard Rawson scholarship has helped students attend the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK). The scholarship fund, which was created in 2004, was made possible by a $3.5 million gift from the estate of UNK alumna Jean S. Rawson '40. The net income from the endowed fund is used for annual scholarships awarded to a variety of Nebraska high school students attending UNK. This scholarship fund is significant because it helps multiple students each year, not only in Kearney but also at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) in Curtis where Jean graduated in 1936 when it was an agriculture high school. The Rawsons gave an additional $3.5 million to NCTA resulting in $7 million total in gifts to the University of Nebraska Foundation. After graduating from NCTA, Jean Rawson earned a business education degree in 1940 from UNK, which was then the Nebraska State Teachers College (NSTC). Jean was born on the NebraskaKansas border in Smith Center, Kansas,
Jean Sullivan Rawson '40
and grew up in Maywood, Nebraska. As an NSTC student, Jean was a scholar and a member of Mortar Board. She also edited the school newspaper and played the oboe and French horn in student music groups. Jean worked in the cafeteria and was always thankful for the kindness and support she received from the college’s president at the time, Herbert Cushing, and his wife, Annie. While working to put herself through school, Jean said Mr. Cushing often encouraged her to keep working toward her dream of graduating. Knowing the young Rawson had little money for clothes, Mrs. Cushing insisted Jean borrow dresses for music performances and handed down clothes to her. Jean had many fond memories of her college days and took pleasure in knowing her estate would help young Nebraska students. After graduating from UNK, she taught at the Nebraska Union High School before moving to California where she worked for the Spreckels Sugar Company as an actuary. Richard Rawson, a native of Sterling, Colo., was in the U.S. Army during World 20
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For more information, visit www.nufoundation.org/ ourstudentsourfuture
Kristin Howard '00, NU Foundation Writer
RAWSON SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS EXPLAIN THE IMPACT OF THE SCHOLARSHIP Grant Holscher, North Platte student, “The Rawson scholarship ROTC funds have helped me immensely, and I hope to graduate from UNK almost debt free. I’ve been able to focus on my studies, which have allowed me to travel for school, including a trip to Europe to explore the sites of the Holocaust." I am really passionate about people. I love being with my friends and in the classroom with my peers. I also have a very adventurous side and enjoy traveling the world and meeting people from all over. I’m also passionate about serving. I think that everyone should serve their community in one way or another. My goals after graduation are to teach and coach wrestling, earn my master’s degree and continue to travel the world.”
Ryan Clark, (left) Kearney student, “I grew up in Kearney, barely three minutes away from the UNK campus. I am double majoring in both finance and mathematics. At UNK, I have been given the chance to play collegiate golf, as well as receive a top-notch education where professors care about me as a person. The Rawson scholarship has been a valuable part of my education experience” Whitney Colling, (right) Kearney student, “I am pursuing a career in either occupational therapy or mathematics. My goals while attending UNK is to go beyond my academics. Having a scholarship only makes me want to work harder to prove that their generosity was not wasted. I am overwhelmingly grateful for everything UNK has given me.”
War II when he met Jean Sullivan in San Francisco. The couple married and lived in Daly City, California. After the war, Richard enjoyed a career as an engineer for Westinghouse. Jean Rawson died in 2003, five years after her husband passed away. The couple,
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who did not have children, chose to leave a legacy at UNK and NCTA that has benefited scores of students over the years. Student scholarships is a fundraising priority for the University of Nebraska’s Our Students, Our Future, an initiative to raise $200 million by the end of
2017. To date, more than $161 million has been committed. To learn more about the fundraising effort, contact the University of Nebraska Foundation at 308-698-5270 or visit nufoundation.org/ ourstudentsourfuture.
HOMECOMING 2017 Sydney Norris, UNK Alumni Student Writer
HONORED ALUMNI COME HOME One Room One Teacher RIGHT: (standing) More than 100 guests gathered to celebrate the One Room, One Teacher (OROT) inductions including Tom Henning, Mary Henning ’69 Stacy (Henning) Hurt, (sitting) Marvel Heuke, OROT honoree Betty (Saathoff) Henning and Judy Henning ’74, MAE ’87.
Several alumnae were honored during homecoming festivities this year. College of Education Distinguished Educator of the Year Sandra (Thomas) Hanson ’81, MAE ’89 of Kearney taught at Kearney Public Schools (KPS) for 30 years before retiring in 2014. Hanson has since taught at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, working with new teacher candidates in the College of Education. She has also taught for the KPS summer Personal Achievement Workshops (PAWS) elementary-enrichment program and has served as a substitute teacher throughout all Kearney schools. Hanson currently
works as an ambassador for the Kearney Park and Recreation Department. While employed with the Kearney Public Schools, Hanson taught eighthgrade science, coached freshman and eighth-grade volleyball for 25 years, sponsored the student council at Horizon Middle School for 28 years and served on several committees involving staff development work and student recognition for academics, athletics and the arts. Hanson sang with the Sweet Adeline’s for 25 years along with the Cabriolet Quartet for 16 years. Within the last three years, Hanson has also shared her love of singing by working with the Horizon
Middle School music department to develop an a capella singing program. Hanson graduated from Kearney State College (KSC) in 1981 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education K-12, with a coaching endorsement. In 1982, she added general science endorsement from KSC. In 1989, Hanson completed her Masters of Education in middle-level science and math at KSC. Don Fox Lecturer Julie (Slaughter) Larsen ’77, MSE ’88 of Kearney has taught multiple levels of chemistry, physical science and physics 22
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COLLEGE OF EDUCATION DISTINGUISHED EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR SANDRA (THOMAS) HANSON ’81, MAE ’89
at Kearney High School (KHS) since 1981. Larsen has worked on numerous committees at the public school, collegiate and state education levels, including those that planned the curriculum, design and schedule of the new Kearney High School. Larsen taught at Kearney State College from 1977 to 1981. Larsen is the recipient of the dedicated service award from the Greater Nebraska Association of Teachers of Science, the American Chemical Society Midwest Regional Award in high school chemistry teaching, the Outstanding Educator Award for Kearney Public Schools, the Sigma Xi Outstanding Science Teacher Award, the KHS Education Advocate Award and the recognition award for her valuable contribution to the success of students from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. Larsen received her Bachelor of Science degree in comprehensive chemistry in 1977. She then obtained secondary teaching endorsements
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DON FOX LECTURER JULIE (SLAUGHTER) LARSEN '77, MSE '88
in chemistry, physical science and mathematics. In 1985, she received her Master’s in science education. Gary Thomas Distinguished Music Alumna Sarah Ponder ’03, a mezzo-soprano of Oak Park, Illinois, is a soloist and ensemble singer with Lyric Opera of Chicago, Grant Park Chorus, Chicago Symphony Chorus, Chicago a cappella, Music of the Baroque and many others. A dedicated teacher and member of the National Association of the Teachers of Singing, Ponder holds a faculty position at Loyola University. In addition to training voices, Ponder has assisted many young composers through workshops at Merit School of Music and Chicago Academy for the Arts providing specialized feedback and instruction. She recently finished recording a set of works from Carnegie Hall’s Lullaby Project partnered with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, assisting young mothers to create original lullabies. Her work as a technique model is featured in the award-winning pedagogy book, Vocal Technique: A Guide for Conductors,
GARY THOMAS DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI SARAH PONDER '03
Teachers, and Singers used at The Juilliard School and other top institutions around the country. Through her outreach at Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Ponder has helped to bring opera and classical music to new audiences, appearing with Opera for the Young, the Opera Divas, Lyric Unlimited and recitals through the Musicians Club of Women. Ponder earned her degree from UNK with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2003 and later received her Masters of Music from Northwestern University. Betty (Saathoff) Henning, Edna (McCall) Hutchins, Janna (Bentley) Pierce '75 and Lois N. Shuck '60 were honored during the One Room One Teacher celebration.
Learn more about the One Room, One Teacher fund at www.nufoundation.org/ oneroomoneteacher
RECOLLECTIONS
MEMORIES OF WAR,
Sydney Norris, UNK Alumni Student Writer
UNK AND BEYOND Jon Cronin ’55, who was presented the first degree of Kearney State Teacher's College's Golden Anniversary, shares memories. Attending college in the 1950s during the onset of the Korean War was a memorable experience for Dr. Jon Cronin. He has an abundance of knowledge and a love for learning and science. “I was training to be a biologist under Dr. Bruner,” said Cronin. Even though he had already started college, his education and curiosity would have to be put on hold in 1951 as the country was on the brink of war. “They were desperate for men at that time,” said Cronin. “There were quite a few of us that they literally came and yanked out of class.” Cronin, along with several other young men at the time, received a “report to duty” note. Little did Cronin know that the small note would have such a large impact on his life. “I was trained by the Marine Corps in San Diego, as well as at Camp Pendleton,” said Cronin. “I was with the 1st Marine Division and served on the front line for 14 months.” Cronin was one of the men who recorded the daily casualties that came into the Marine Corps from the 1st Marine Division. “It still haunts me,” said Cronin. There was one particular day that Cronin may not have lived to see the night, but instead he heard a voice that
President Herbert Cushing congratulates Dr. Jon Cronin '55, who has touched many lives with his psychology degree.
redirected his life. “I was trying to get away from a sniper,” said Cronin. “I was walking along and suddenly, there was one word, out of nowhere, very clear. ‘Stop.’ At first, I thought it was another Marine.” Cronin to this day does not know how he escaped the chaos and danger he was in as he was in the midst of running into a minefield. Cronin still questions if the voice was his subconscious or God, but the one thing he knew for sure, was his experiences in the marines and war led him to have a heart to help people with disabilities. When he came home from the war, Cronin was determined to achieve his life
goals and through his determination, he came across amazing opportunities and people who guided and mentored him. He told his academic advisor that he felt called to work with people with disabilities and he wanted to get a psychology degree. So, he came back to Kearney and finished his degree in psychology. Shortly after graduation, Cronin received a phone call to work in Colorado as a counsellor for people with disabilities and handicaps. After 14 years with the Colorado Department of Rehabilitation, Cronin left to teach rehabilitation courses in the psychology department at what was known as Kearney State College. Cronin and several of his friends were among those who believed Kearney State College should be a part of the University system and spoke out in favor of it. “It doesn’t matter what your situation is in life, whether you’re a student or not, you can make a difference,” said Cronin. “I was here to work. I was here to learn. I’ve talked and worked with some of the best researchers in the world, and I never had any trouble keeping up with them because of the education I received here." 24
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CAMPUS NEWS
VILLAGE FLATS Village Flats is an apartment-style residence hall designed for upper-classmen. Installation of structural steel is mostly complete, and workers continue to push toward finishing framing work and the shell of the new Village Flats residence hall at UNK's University Village. Crews are also pouring the parking
lot. Electricians and plumbers have started inside the building. There is a big push to get the building weather-proofed and ready for exterior masonry and window installation, so that work can move inside this winter.
Todd Gottula, UNK Communications Writer VILLAGE FLATS Address: 2201 University Drive; south side of Highway 30, directly south of Health Science Education Complex and UNK’s West Center. Cost: $16 million; funding for the new residence hall is from $12 million in revenue bonds and $4 million from a UNK surplus fund. Size: Three-story structure with 99 apartments and 130 beds, including 68 one-bedroom and 31 two-bedroom units. Construction Start: April 2017 Planned Completion: Summer 2018 About The Project: A 130-bed apartmentstyle residence hall for upperclassman, nontraditional students and UNK guests replaces the former University Heights, built in 1960 northwest of campus. Village Flats is the first project in the University Village development. University Village: University Village is a 104-acre mixed-use development on UNK property. Estimated at between $400 million and $500 million when finished, the entire project could take between 15 to 20 years to develop. The mixed-used development will feature retail, office, academic facilities, recreation space and housing. UNK is partnering with private and other business entities on the project. University Village is a pedestrian-oriented “walkable” community with public gathering spaces. In addition to approximately 680 residential units, projects planned for the area include a recreation complex with indoor track and tennis center, outdoor tennis courts and a softball complex. Next Project: Contractors will break ground in spring 2018 on the Early Childhood Education Center, a $6.4 million, 17,800-square-foot project. The center will have a capacity for 152 children from infant to age six. On the Web: http://www.unk.edu/uvillage/
To learn more about campus news, visit http://unknews.unk.edu/
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Did you miss an event? Register at unkalumni.org/login
LOPERS COME HOME Whether you come home or we visit you, you can always find a friendly face at a Loper alumni event.
VISITING LOPERS
SIGMA PHI EPSILON The Sigma Phi Epsilon Rock Morris Memorial Golf Tournament and Reunion took place in July. From left to right, Tim Lentz ’88, Mike Hohnstein ’82, Dan Larson ’84, Gary Beller ’81, Mike DeVore ’81 and Phil Patten ’85 enjoyed getting together with their Loper brothers to play golf, reminisce and raise funds for the Rock Morris scholarship.
LOPER FOOTBALL REUNION Loper football players from various eras came back for Homecoming 2017 to partake in the annual football reunion festivities and cheer on the Lopers. Are you a former Loper who didn't get the information? Be sure to register at www.unkalumni.org/login.
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Scott McVittie ’72, Mike Smithson, Bob Reece '82, Amy Brechbill, Laurie Thomas Lee ’82, Karman DeLuca, Dave Thorell ’71, David Nova ’83, Rich Watson ’82, Tony Dillehay ’79, Roger Templin ’81, Jeff Stoltenberg ’91, Craig Larson ’83, Russel Loontjer ’81 and Mike Britton ’84 met for a broadcasting reunion.
Homecoming 2017 saw the first international homecoming reunion with three days of activities culminating in a banquet on Saturday night. Alumni travelled from around the world to visit Kearney and relive memories.
Head Softball Coach Holly Carnes '01, Donna Bamford and UNK Athletics’ Event Director Mannie Reinsch '14, MA '16, break in the new UNK softball equipment shed, which is housed at the UNK softball team's home field, Dryden Park. Bamford generously provided the support to allow the team to store more equipment at the field.
The 1967 Kearney State College baseball team celebrated their 50th reunion. In attendance were John Torczon ’68, Del Prindle ’68, Richard Peters ’67, Rich Osentowski ’70, Tom Lawson ’67, Ron Jiede ’67, Lee Jacobsen ’68, Art Fritson ’68, Tom Case ’70 and Mel Aerni ’69.
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Alpha Xi Delta and Zeta sororities met this summer. Those attending were (sitting) Mary Kenney ’65, Marcia Trimble ’66, Marion Mirehouse ’55, student Ahnika Lutz, Pat Schuster, Karen Humphrey, student Kelsey Gretch, Nora Lindner ’63, (standing) Joyce Spickelmier '70, Kay Obermiller, Sharron Altmaier ’55, Joan King ’58, Marlene McKean ’57, Deb King, Maxine Erpelding ’66 Diana Wubbenhorst, Carrie Prososki ’16, www. student Whitney Brown, Karen Prososki and student Josie Burke.
CLASS NOTES 1964
1969
1977
Kenneth Aldridge '64 of Mansfield, Texas, is the author of "My Baby, My Baby" and "The Janitor," his fifth and sixth books. Mike and Dr. Elaine (Maret) Batenhorst MAE `83 of Kearney celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 5. Elaine is the recipient of the 2017 Kearney Hub Freedom Award for education.
LeRoy Swedlund of Omaha was honored as a 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.
1965
Ron Drudik of Ord was awarded the Outstanding Service Award by the Nebraska State Interscholastic Administrators Association (NSIAAA). Carl Tesmer of Grand Island was inducted into the 2017 Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame.
Brenda (Johnson) Brandt of Holyoke, Colorado, received Newspaper Person of the Year from the Colorado Press Association. Julie (Slaughter) Larsen MSE ’88 of Kearney was selected to be the UNK Chemistry Department’s 2017 Don Fox Lecturer. Julie is a science teacher at Kearney High School. Shannon (Welch) Vesely MAE ’79 of Bloomfield, Iowa, was honored as a 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. Shannon is a literacy and instructional consultant for Iowa schools.
Robert Harvey of Stapleton was honored by the State of Nebraska's education commissioners for 52 years of teaching math at Stapleton Public Schools. Dr. Marilyn Sorensen of Eugene, Oregon, was named 2016-2017 Top Author of the Year by the International Association of Top Professionals. Vince `96 and Patty (Burks) Wright MSE `86 of Kearney celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 16.
1966 Dee Schaad of Indianapolis, Indiana, is an artist at the By Hand Gallery.
Dee Schaad '66
1967 Rich and Dianne (Youngquist) Peters of Loup City celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 29. Jerry Stine of Omaha was inducted into the 2017 Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame.
1968 David J. Dostal of Sun City West, Arizona, received the 2017 Distinguished Service Award from the Nebraska School Activities Association for his long-time service at the state track meet.
1970 Dick Luebbe of Columbus was inducted into the Grand Island High School Islander Football Hall of Fame.
1971
1972
1978 Carol Lomicky, Ph.D., MAE `82 of Kearney is the recipient of the 2017 Kearney Hub Medical Health Freedom Award.
Col. (Ret.) Jan R. Frye of Woodbridge, Virginia, was honored as a 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. Col. Frye is the deputy assistant secretary for acquisition and logistics at the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA).
1975 Tom Kropp MAE '79 of Kearney was named the Honorary Parade Marshal of the 2017 Cornhusker State Games opening ceremonies. Donald '86 and Kay (Schopp) Wolfe of Kearney celebrated their 50th anniversary April 21. Paul Younes of Kearney was recognized with the 2017 UNK College of Business and Technology Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award.
1976 Leland Preston MBA ’80 of Hastings was recognized with the 2017 Outstanding Alumni Award at Central Community College-Hastings. Mark Sanders MAE ’79 of Nacogdoches, Texas, received the 2016 Nebraska Book Award for the anthology “A Sandhills Reader: Thirty Years of Great Writing from the Great Plains.” His essay "Homecoming Parade" was listed as a notable essay in the 2016 anthology Best American Essays. Mark will be inducted into Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame at the Ord Public Schools 45th class reunion in 2018.
Carol Lomicky '78, MAE '82
Joe Methe of Kearney was honored as one of Shelter Insurance's highest achieving sales representatives for 2016. Gwen (Eberle) Robertson of Issaquah, Washington, is named Inspiring Coach of the Year by Brooks Running Company.
1980 Francisco Hidalgo-Suarez MBA of Longboat Key, Florida, was honored as the 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Distinguished International Alumni Award recipient. Francisco is the managing director of Latin America for Kybora Emerging Markets.
1981 Sandra (Thomas) Hanson MAE '89 of Kearney is the 2017 UNK College of Education's educator of the year.
Share your news at 28
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CLASS NOTES 7,500 converged at UNK to view the eclipse in its totality in August 2017.
Karen (Wyatt) Rhoads of Kearney retired as senior vice president of finance and chief financial officer of The Buckle, Inc., after 33 years with the company. Teresa (Leach) Schneider MAE '92, of Gothenburg retired from Lexington Public Schools.
1983 Brenda (Snodgrass) Christensen of Minden was honored as the 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Jim Rundstrom Distinguished Alumni Service Award recipient. Brenda is a key account manager with CenterPoint Energy Services. Shirley and Larry Schall Ed.S. of Kearney celebrated their 50th anniversary on Sept. 2.
1985
1988
John Hoggatt of Grand Island is the executive vice president of First National of Nebraska, Inc., in Grand Island and Kearney.
Jana (Weed) Green MAE '90, of Minden has been inducted into the University of Nebraska at Kearney's Academy for Teacher Education Excellence. Mary Louise Nelson MAE of Kearney retired from Meadowlark Elementary with Kearney Public Schools. Richard Salmen of Olathe, Kansas, is the chair-elect for the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards’ Board of Directors. Richard is the CEO of Northern Financial Advisors.
1986 Allen Brozovsky MAE of Wilbur is the principal at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School in Seward.
1987 Jean Busboom-Piercy of Omaha is a national operations chemist at Univar.
1989 Vinitia Mathews of Nashville, Tennessee, is vice president, patient services at LifePoint Health.
1984 Otis “Odee” Ingersoll of Kearney received the 2017 Bob Bernier NBDC Excellence in Reflective Practice Award and the 2017 NBDCUNO Distinguished Service Award. Marty Nordlund of Elkhorn is the COO and senior executive vice president for Werner Enterprises in Omaha. Kelly Rush of Lincoln had a photo selected for the "Bridges: Sharing Our Past to Enrich the Future" photo contest. Her photo of the Salem Swedish Methodist Episcopal Church, built in 1898 in Kearney County, will be displayed in a statewide traveling exhibit celebrating Nebraska’s sesquicentennial.
Share your news at
unkalumni.org/classnotes
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1990 John Haeberle, M.D., of Laramie, Wyoming, was voted favorite physician by the Laramie community. Mark Kuecker of Omaha is a business performance manager at Home Instead Senior Care. Jean Busboom-Piercy '87
Melinda Rother of Grand Island retired from teaching at Dodge Elementary with Grand Island Public Schools. Ed Uden of Kearney is the recipient of the 2017 Kearney Hub Freedom Award in arts & entertainment.
1991 Tami Jo (Stubbs) Harmon of Yuma, Arizona, is a PA-C and owner of Pinnacle Healthcare. Andrea “Andi” Miller of Springfield, Missouri, is the interim head of content management and acquisitions at Missouri State University’s University Libraries.
CLASS NOTES Travis Vallin ’92 of Watkins, Colorado, was inducted into the 2017 UNK Athletic Hall of Fame. Travis is the principal owner of Jviation in Denver. Michael Zaruba, M.D., of Auburn was awarded The Marion D. and Theodore Koefoot, Jr., M.D., Outstanding Preceptor in Rural Family Medicine award by the UNMC Department of Family Medicine for his work at Auburn Family Health Clinic.
1992 Scott Casper of Kearney is the director of audience growth and marketing for the Kearney Hub. Tim Cass of Hastings is an adjunct lecturer at UNK and the eastern regional sales manager at CNH (Case New Holland) Industrial. Bryce and Jennifer (Slezak) Gartner ‘93 of Holly Springs, North Carolina, are the founders of icimo, a business intelligence and analytics company. Brett Joneson MAE ’01 of North Platte is North Platte Public Schools administrator of the year. He is the assistant principal at Adams Middle School. Nichole (Suhr) Stoltenberg of Grand Island is the director of fundraising and initiatives for the Grand Island Livestock Complex Authority. Daryl Wills of Ashland illustrated the book “The Perfect Stone.”
1993 Holly Nikels, Ph.D., MSE '96, Ed.S. '99, of Bettendorf, Iowa, is the chair of the Department of Counselor Education at Western Illinois University.
1994 Alison Peck, Ph.D., of Hilo, Hawaii, is the visiting instrument program manager at the Gemini Observatory in Mauna Kea.
1995 Paxton Helling of Colorado Springs, Colorado, is the author of "Head Over Blue Heal," "Carbon Copy" and "The Warehouse;" and is an account manager with Otsuka Pharmaceutical. Brandon Koom of Omaha is a product sales specialist at GE Healthcare.
1996
1999
Bret Bickel of Gretna is the IS manager at Blue Cross Blue Shield. Nick Harrahill of Santa Clara, California, is the senior product manager for information security at Synack. Shane Jensen, D.D.S., of Kearney celebrated 20 years of practicing dentistry with Eagle Dental Associates. Eric Strating of Easley, South Carolina, is a commercial manager for Trinseo.
Tabitha Carlson, Psy.D., MSE '03, of Grand Island is a health psychologist with Family Resources of Greater Nebraska in Grand Island, recently achieved ABPP specialty board certification in clinical health psychology. Kimberly (Satterfield) Krull, Ph.D., MSE of El Dorado, Kansas, is president of Butler Community College. Scott Neth MA of Omaha is a web interface developer at Werner Enterprises. Neal Randel MAE of Beatrice was awarded the District I Athletic Director of the Year by the Nebraska State Interscholastic Administrators Association (NSIAAA). Kelley Towne of Papillion is the manager of global accounts at HelmsBriscoe. Sarah Fritzler-Zulkoski of Kearney is the infrastructure manager at Baldwin Filters.
1997 Lucas Dart of Kearney was selected for Leadership Nebraska 2017-2018 class by the Nebraska State Chamber of Commerce.
2000
Pete Kotsiopulos '70, Louie and Lucas Dart '97.
Tracy Lungrin MSE `01 of Lincoln is associate director of career services at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln. Jaycoda Major, Ph.D., of Nassau, The Bahamas, is an applied science professor at the University of the Bahamas. Dr. Kenda Ramirez of Rowlett, Texas, is an internist and affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Baylor Medical Center at Frisco and Baylor Regional Medical Center. Sam Stecher MAE `05 of Lincoln is the co-author of "It Happens in the Hallway" and superintendent at East Butler Public Schools.
1998 Luke Gideon of Burwell is Grand Island Independent's boys coach of the year for 2017. Mike Hancock of Wahoo was inducted into the 2017 UNK Athletic Hall of Fame. Mike is vice-president of Inspro Insurance in Wahoo.
Ed Albrecht of Cozad is a sergeant of criminal investigations for Dawson County. Brian Botsford is a vocal music instructor at Lexington High School and a musical director for the Crane River Theater. Steve Hansen of Kearney was selected for the February 2017 Employee Achievement Award by UNK's Staff Senate and Recognition Committee. Laura (McCabe) Hatch, PA-C, of Kearney is a physician's assistant for Family Practice Associates, P.C. Mitchell Stine of Kearney is the District IV Athletic Director of the Year awarded by the Nebraska State Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NSIAAA). Louis "Ted"Titus of Holdrege is a vice president and loan officer at First State Bank of Holdrege. Jonathan “Jon” Ussery of West Sacramento, California, is the athletic director at Laguna Creek High School.
2001 Jill (Merklin) Albrecht MSE ’03 of Cozad is a speech and language pathologist for Cozad Community Schools. Tim Frame MBA '05 of Grand Island is a commercial and ag lender with First National Bank.
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CLASS NOTES Amy (Huffman) Lampe of Okemos, Michigan, is an academic specialist for the College of Arts and Letters, Michigan State University. Lucas Rickley of Lithia, Florida, is a network engineer for IT Authorities. Corrie (Sears) Schantz is an associate athletic director for strategic marketing and fan engagement at the University of Connecticut.
2004 Bryce Abbey, Ph.D., MAE ’06 of Kearney was inducted into the 2017 UNK Athletic Hall of Fame. Bryce is an assistant professor and the employee and wellness director in UNK's Kinesiology and Sports Sciences Department.
2002 Roan Howard MAE '06 of Kearney was honored as the Kearney Public Schools teacher of the year. Cherish Ohlman MAE ’09 of Kearney is a special education teacher at Kearney Public Schools. Brian Wilson of Indianapolis, Indiana, is an export specialist at OSRAM. Kara Wright MSE `05, of Grand Island, received the MST Sustained Excellence award (an ESSY) in the Therapist Adherence category for her work as on outpatient counselor for at-risk youth and families at a community based agency. Kara is currently a counselor at Mid-Plains Center for Behavioral Healthcare Services. Andrea (Walton) Miller of Bayard was selected to be the judge for the District Court of the 12th Judicial District Court of Nebraska.
2003 Melissa (Ripp) Caha, M.D., `08, of Kearney is a pediatric doctor at Kearney Clinic. Alison (Golter) Hoeke MSE `05 of McCook is a speech pathologist at Tri Valley Health System. Justin Hoeke MBA ‘08 of McCook is plant manager at Parker Hannifin. Phillip Hoyt MAE of Heartwell was awarded the District V Athletic Director of the Year by the Nebraska State Interscholastic Administrators Association (NSIAAA). Tim Kimball of Columbus is the owner of Rock’n Rooster Donuts in Columbus. Tyson McGreer of Colby, Kansas, is the city manager for Colby. Sarah Ponder of Oak Park, Illinois, received the UNK 2017 Gary Thomas Distinguished Alumni Award.
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Bryce Abbey, Ph.D., '04, MAE '06, and family.
Anna (Thompson) Lohmeyer MA ’08 of Aberdeen, South Dakota, is an English instructor at Northern State University. Amanda (State) McGreer of Colby, Kansas, is the vice president of ag banking at Adams Bank & Trust. Allison (Kruger) Monson is the compliance officer/director of student-athlete academic affairs at Southwest Minnesota State University. Allison was inducted into the 2017 UNK Athletic Hall of Fame. Megan O'Byrne, Ph.D., of Allentown, Pennsylvania, is professor of communication studies at Kutztown University. Elisha Pueppka of North Platte is a registered respiratory therapist at Great Plains Health. Dusty Reynolds of Omaha was honored as the 2017 UNK Alumni Association’s Distinguished Young Alumni Award recipient. Dusty is the CEO of RaceNote. Eric West of Omaha is a mortgage loan officer with Regent Financial. Samantha (Munoz) Willey, L.M.H.P., of Ralston is a licensed mental health practitioner at Family Enrichment, Inc.
2005 Shannon Busch MBA '09 of Kearney is the human resources director for ruralMed Management Resources in Holdrege.
Gary Dop MA of Lynchburg, Virginia, is a poet, screen writer and stand-up comedian. Mark Johnson MAE of Kearney is the co-author of "It Happens in the Hallway" and principal at Bryant Elementary. Mark Kamerzell MAE of Lincoln is a financial advisor at Principal Financial. Brandon Mowinkel MAE of Milford was named Nebraska High School Principal of the Year for 2017-18 by Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals. Lindsey (Leach) Nerud of Kearney is a territory sales representative for Allergan. David Pena MAE of Mayville, North Dakota, is the quarterback and associate head football coach, coordinator of student development and HPER instructor at Mayville State University. Matt Uphoff of Kearney is a real estate agent at REMAX Executives, Inc. Jia Wei of Grand Island is the vice president of quality and regulatory affairs at Nova-Tech.
2006 Kelli (Crawford) Bender MAE of Lexington is the recipient of the 2017 Kearney Hub Freedom Award for religion. Krystle (Faust) Buntemeyer of Kearney was named the 2017 Marketer of the Year by the American Marketing Association – Omaha. Krystal is the senior vice president and chief marketing officer for SCORR Marketing. Tyler Herman MA ‘14 of Gothenburg is a member of the 2017 Nebraska Scholastic Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Fame class. Tyler is the assistant principal and athletic director for Gothenburg Public Schools. Daniel Huffman, PT of Austin, Texas, is a physical therapist with the U.S. Army. Amanda Mollet of Iowa City, Iowa, is a doctoral student at the University of Iowa. Mark White of Gretna was promoted to first vice president of business banking at Security National Bank of Omaha.
2007 Imene Belhassen, Ph.D., MA is an assistant professor at Penn State University. Jenna Derr, M.D., of Kearney is a doctor with Good Samaritan Medical Group.
CLASS NOTES Tyler Deitloff of Minden was promoted to general manager at Mid-Plains Equipment in Kearney. Dustin Fread, D.C., of Kearney is a chiropractor at Heartland Chiropractic Center. Jessica Laughlin of Scottsbluff is a deputy county attorney for Scotts Bluff County. Brandon Luedtke, Ph.D., of Axtell is a biology professor at UNK.
2008 Lucas Houchin of Axtell is a mental health coordinator at Mosaic Bethphage Mission. Brittani Moeller, D.O., of Kearney is a doctor of osteopathic medicine with Good Samaritan Medical Group. Dusty Jura MBA ’15 of Axtell was inducted into the Columbus Lakeview Athletic Hall of Fame.
2009 Emily (Jensen) Baughman of Kearney is the data coordinator for the Buffalo County Community Partners. April Bell of Gillette, Wyoming, is a personal financial associate with Highmark Federal Credit Union. Stacey (Bonner) Borowski, D.D.S., of Brookings, South Dakota, is a dentist with Knutzen Family Dentistry. Geoff Carnahan of Gibbon is a fourth-grade teacher at Glenwood Elementary, Kearney Public Schools. Zac Deeds MS ’16 of Hazard is a senior account manager with Intellicom in Kearney. Brett Kluever of Gibbon has been inducted into the University of Nebraska at Kearney's Academy for Teacher Education Excellence. Brette is a fifth-grade and sixth-grade teacher at Gibbon Public Schools. Ayaka Kondo of Lincoln is pursuing a doctor of musical arts degree at UNL. Brady Metz of Kearney is a graphic designer with Grindstone Hardscapes. Kari Mitchell of Kearney is one of the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2017 30 Under 30 recipients. Kari is a designer for Artistic Cabinetry. Justin Moore MAE of Mullen is the elementary principal for Mullen Public Schools. Leon de Winter of Phoenix, Arizona, is a video technician for Major League Baseball Scouting Bureau.
Andrew Wissing of St. Libory is a project superintendent at Chief Construction in Grand Island.
2010 Lacey Batt of Omaha is a physical education teacher and aquatics director at Westside Community Schools. Taylor (Marsh) Borden of Kearney is a respiratory therapist at CHI Good Samaritan Health Systems. Drew Kozisek of Lincoln is a project manager at IBM. Jeff Schwartz of Auburn is the assistant principle and activities director at Auburn Public Schools. Will Wagner is a science teacher at Kearney Public Schools.
2011 Brigham Becker of Omaha is a science teacher at Millard North. Creighton Hinze, D.C., of Holdrege is a chiropractor at Shrock Chiropractic & Acupuncture. Eric Miller of Wallace is the physical education teacher, coach and athletic director at Wallace Public Schools. Jeri (Walkowiak) Otten is a business teacher and the head volleyball coach for Columbus High School. Kathleen "Kat" Tinkham is an art director at J. Schmid & Associates in Mission, Kansas.
2012 JD Carson MA '15 of Kearney is a sixth grade teacher at Sunrise Middle School and a golf coach at Kearney High School. Justin Chramosta of Kearney is an information technology teacher at Horizon Middle School. Kelly Cooksley of Broken Bow is a physical education teacher and the girls’ basketball coach at Broken Bow Public Schools. Tara Tourney of Kearney is the human resources manager at Brown Transfer.
2013 Jon Kuecker of Kearney is a sixth grade math and social studies teacher and high school boys golf and junior high football coach at Wood River Rural Schools.
Pete Kropp of Shelton is an industrial technology teacher at Horizon Middle School in Kearney. Scott Nannen of Kearney is a third grade teacher at Buffalo Hills Elementary in Kearney. Ciera Neverve of Centennial, Colorado, is a group and alumni travel account manager at Globus Family of Brands in Denver.
2014 Brooke Anderson MA of Montrose, California, published her first book, “Hello, Goodbye, We Meet Again” with Wonder Lake Press. She also teaches scientific writing in the biology department at Caltech. Kalinda Bruggeman of Mission, South Dakota, is a kindergarten teacher in the Todd County School District. Matt Giffin, P.T., of Kearney is a physical therapist at Kearney Physical Therapy. Kirsten Lipps of Algona, Iowa, is attending medical school at Northwestern in Chicago. Brandon Pacheco ’15 of Shelton is a fifth grade teacher at Northeast Elementary in Kearney. Matt Sterup of Kansas City, Missouri, is in outside sales with Express Distribution in the Kansas City area. Jackie Ziemke of Holdrege is an administrative assistant and marketing coordinator for ruralMed Management Resources.
2015 Leslie Bierman of Kearney is a senior accountant at Phelps Memorial Health Center in Holdrege. Dayna Larreau of Lincoln was published in the Review of Economic & Business Studies. She is an outreach support associate in the College of Business Administration at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Emily Olsufka of Kearney is a mortgage loan officer with Trius Federal Credit Union. Lorena Ortega-Valdovinos of Houston, Texas, is a financial institution specialist with the FDIC in Houston. Brock Persson of Mission, South Dakota, is a K-8 music teacher at Todd County School District.
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CLASS NOTES 2016 Jacob Clancy of Dawson is a project support coordinator for Constructors, Inc., in Lincoln. Austin Koeller is a reporter for Grand Island Independent. Crystal (Gross) Kucera is a fifth grade teacher at Central City Public Schools. Billie Kunzman of Elkhorn received the Top Recruiter Award from Aureus Medical. Jeff Rodis of Mansfield, Massachusetts, is participating in the Medtronic leadership development rotation program as an associate category manager. Zach Widger of Kearney is quality assurance engineer for The Buckle. Nick White of Lincoln is a sales representative for Snap! Raise. Chloe (Wichmann) Younger of Grand Island is a special education teacher at St. Paul Public Schools.
2017 Rachel Stauffer of Fargo, North Dakota, serves as alumni administration and events coordination for Concordia College in West Fargo.
Marriages Valerie Vierk ’96 of Ravenna married Don Behrendt June 3. Logan Behrendt '10 and McKenzie Wiese '12 of Ravenna were married Jan. 23, 2016. Grant Carlson '13 and McKenzie Buettner of Gaithersburg, Maryland, were married July 22. Taylor Gellerman '16 and Taylor Hubbard '16 of Imperial were married April 29. Aaron Bliven ‘14 and Danielle Howard ‘14 of Omaha were married Oct. 8, 2016. Kyle Drake '12, MAE ‘17 and Emily Bargell '12 of Kearney were married Aug. 6, 2016. Shaun Fisher '14 and Kristi Bauer '13 of Kenesaw were married May 16, 2014. Crystal Gross '16 and Brandon Kucera of Grand Island were married Aug. 5. Corrie Sears ’01 and Adam Schantz of Austin, Texas, were married Feb. 17 Trey Shafto '13 and Emily Hoehn of Ravenna were married Dec. 3, 2016.
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Lori Schmitt '85 and Robert Petersen of Kearney were married April 28. Sonya Koperski '97 and Brad Poland were married Sept. 1. Cristianne EagleFeather Moreno '10, MS '14 and Dustin Velasquez of Austin, Texas, were married April 14. Jordan McNitt ’09 and Nicholas Murdock of Norfolk were married May 13. Jeri Walkowiak '11 and Grant Otten of Columbus were married July 8. Jack Wardyn '14 and Mary Ellen (Ellie) Pesavento '14 of Kearney were married April 9, 2016. Paul Knutson '11, MBA '12, and Roxanne Steinbrink '11 of Omaha were married Sept. 9, 2015. Lance Wilson '11 and Megan Schliefert '11 of Kearney were married April 2, 2016. Chance Younger '16 and Chloe Wichmann '16 of Grand Island were married July 14.
Births Patrick `10 and Elizabeth (Thomas) Ackerman `10 of Omaha are parents of a son, Dean Thomas, born on May 9. Ed '00 and Jill (Merklin) Albrecht '01, MSE '03 of Cozad are the parents of a daughter, Avi May, born June 25. Nicole and Blake Anderson ‘06 of Omaha are the parents of a son, Cooper Mickie, born April 18. Jeff and Megan (Haack) Arnold '11, MS '13, of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Lucia Eileen, born May 24. Jamie and Cory Banzhaf '03 of Kearney are the parents of twins, son, Cade James and daughter, Callie Dawn, born Feb. 2. Travis and Jillana (Edwards) Barker '14, MS '16, of Broken Bow are the parents of a son, Elias Allen Michael, born Jan. 22. Sonni and David Benge '13 of Gibbon are the parents of a son, Kallen Russell, born May 26. Chad '09 and Stacey (Bonner) Borowski, D.D.S., '09 of Brookings, South Dakota, are parents of a son, Emmanuel Louis, born June 13, 2016. Jonathan '08 and Lacey (Strasburg) Bouc '06, MAE '11 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Grayson Reid, born March 13. Jonathan '03 and Emelia (Klingelhoefer) Brandt '02 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Dahlia Ann Emelia, born June 9.
Niles and Nicole (Pedersen) Buettner '07 of Holdrege are the parents of a daughter, Mycah Jo, born Dec. 24. Mycah has a sister, Kortlyn. Aaron Cline and Whitney Schneider-Cline, Ph.D., '03, MSE '05, are the parents of a daughter, Quinn Londyn, born May 5. Kyle '12, MAE ‘17 and Emily (Bargell) Drake '12 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Nora Rose, born Feb 10. Jason '03 and Lynelle (Snider) Fritzen '08 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Sutton Drake, born Jan. 11. Steven and Haley (Greer) Gadeken `09 of Kearney are parents of a son, Grayden Lee, born May 18. Chris '09 and Hope (Marsh) Gillaspy '10 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Luke Dean, born Jan. 29. Adam '06 and Beth (Weides) Greenquist '04 of Seward are the parents of a son, Baker Thomas, born March 29. Riley and Jenni (Lindstrom) Guthrie '11 of Holdrege are the parents of a son, Jace Wayne, born July 11. Ryan '07 and Sarah (Westesen) Haack '07 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Ryker John, born May 9. Brandon ‘13 and Malaika (Albin) Hanika ‘13 of Mullen are parents of a daughter, Madalyn Joy, born July 25. Audrey and Andrew Hoffman ‘14 of Omaha are parents of a son, McKinley Douglas, born on January 20. Lisa and Brian Hopkins ’06 of Fort Collins, Colorado, are the parents of a daughter, Kinlie Jean, born April 22. Kinlie has a sister, Mallorie. Lucas '08 and Sharesse (Collison) Houchin '06 of Axtell are the parents of a son, Emerson Jeffrey, born Feb. 14. Stephen and Brooke (DeTurk) Janning ‘04 of Kearney are parents of a son, George Steven, born July 27. Alex '03 and Jennifer (Gross) Jensen '05 of Papillion are the parents of a daughter, Grace Marie, born Nov. 17, 2016. Todd Karr ‘99 and Pam Baccam of Lincoln are the parents of a daughter, Sumalee Baccam Karr, born August 14. Jacob ‘15 and Amanda (Schipporeit) Keating MS ‘15 of Broken Bow are parents of a son, Robert Otis, born July 24.
CLASS NOTES Shane '06 and Linda (Bauer) Killion '05, MA '16, of Kearney are the parents of a son, Beau Calvin, born June 27. Nathan '12 and Kayla (Kimberling) Klaus '13 of Windsor, Colorado, are the parents of a son, Jacen Leon, born Nov. 8. Dave and Ashley (Miller) Klein '03 of Omaha are the parents of a son, Brigham Leo, born June 3. Brice and Vicki (Bunch) Korobka ’03 of Phillipsburg, Kansas, are parents of a son, Locke Owen, born October 15, 2016. Jared '05 and Marissa (Schleiger) Kruse '12 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Alla B. Su, born May 18. Mike and Molly (Lungrin) Kuhl '03, EDS '08, of Lincoln are the parents of a son, Max Douglas, born March 31. Colby ‘06, MBA ‘08 and Crystal (Parr) L'Heureux ‘07 of Axtell are parents of a son, Brody William, born June 17. Don and LeAnn (Schluntz) Leidig ‘04 of Phillipsburg, Kansas, are parents of a daughter, Cara Grace, born May 12. Hugo Longoria ‘07 and Vanessa Guerra of Kearney are parents of a daughter, Alaina Ellisandra born May 16. Kyle '12 and Kasey (Nansel) McBride '12 of Littleton, Colorado, are the parents of a daughter, Kenlea Ann, born May 12. Annalise and Jess McHargue '12 of Lexington are the parents of a daughter, Londyn Jane, born March 9. Anthony '11 and Brittany (Davidson) McPhillips '09, MAE '13, of Central City are the parents of a daughter, Olivia Rae, born April 19. Robert '11 and Jessica (Bowden) Nelson '10, MBA '13, of Minden are the parents of a daughter, Emma Kathleen, born March 29. Scott and Shana (Guthrie) Nitchie '10, MS '12, of Holdrege are the parents of a daughter, Elin Jean, born Feb. 10. Ashley and Curt Ott `07 of Kearney are parents of a son, Asher Dixon, born July 7. Kyle ’06 and Kristin (Franke) Paben ’06 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Piper Alice, born April 5. Heidi and Shawn Patsios '08 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Gavin Michael, born Jan 2. Travis and Christina (Lewis) Pawley '07 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Avery Grace, born Feb. 24. Marie and Jeremy Peter ‘13 of Yankton, South Dakota, are parents of a son, Rhett
William, born May 27. Rachel and Dalton Peterson ’14 of Bertrand are parents of a son, Clay Alan, born May 13. Josh '05 and Brook (Carpenter) Pierce '07 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Finnegan "Finn" Lee, born March 29. Megan and Nathaniel Porter '12 of Minden are the parents of a son, Chase Elijah, born April 4. Joseph and Shanda (Norman) Pouk `07 of Holdrege are parents of a daughter and a son, Lydia Sue and Nixon Eugene born February 27. Justin and Katrina (Prellwitz) Ronning '13 of Kearney are parents of a daughter, Renn Jolin, born July 22. Elizabeth and Ben Rowe '03 are the parents of a daughter, Lumen Marie, born May 31. Chuck ’03 and Jennifer (Conner) Rowling ‘99 of Kearney are parents of a son, Samuel Markus, born March 17. Sam has a sister, Evelyn, and brother, Charles. Brian and Katharine Sisson '07, MS '09, of Arapahoe are the parents of a daughter, Millie Jo, born Feb. 8. Brock '15 and Kiley (Dibbern) Shuler '14 of Lincoln are the parents of a daughter, Lilian Thérèse, born July 21. Alex Poorman and Rachal Skeen '06, MBA '08 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Bowen Jack, born Feb. 24. David and Sydney (Schroer) Sohler '14 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Harlow Ray, born Feb. 26. Allison and Justin Spaulding '10 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Sadie Grace, born Jan. 10. James Trambly '06 and Olimpia LeiteTrambly MS '09 of Kearney are the parents of a daughter, Elizabella Joy, born Feb. 21. Leland and Krisha (Niemoth) Uden MSE '97 of Wood River are the parents of a daughter, Acacia Sue, born Feb. 6. Jerod and Jennifer (Nelsen) Weber '09 of Bertrand are the parents of a daughter, Jozlyn Brielle, born Oct. 4, 2016. Joseph '10, MA '16 and Jennifer (Karr) Wiechman '07 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Henry Lee, born Jan. 24. Lance '11 and Megan (Schliefert) Wilson '11 of Kearney are the parents of a son, Porter Jacob, born June 20. Greg and Chantel (Pittz) Winz '15 of Hildreth are the parents of a son, Sawyer William, born May 23.
Jeff and Stephanie (Blocher) Yockey ‘14, MAE ’17 of Gibbon are parents of a daughter, Harper LeAnn, born June 21.
Deaths
David Amstutz, Ph.D., '66, UNK emeritus, of Kearney died Feb. 12. He was 79. Gerald Leroy Anderson’63, MSE ’68, of Voldosta, Georgia, died Feb. 17. He was 86. Gayland Baker '76 of Kamuela, Hawaii, died May 12. He was 67. Marieta Balius '71 of McCook died July 22. She was 86. James “Jim” Barth '62, MSE '69, of Kearney died January 2, 2017. He was 81. Rev. Wayne Bartruff ‘58 of Independence, Missouri, died Dec. 4, 2016. He was 90. Tanya (Farrens) Becker '91 of Omaha died Feb. 20. She was 48. Erma (Hill) Bennett '44 of Indianapolis, Indiana, died March 1. She was 94. Delphina "Del" (Kosmicki) Shoup Ludden Berger '47 of Scottsdale, Arizona, died June 11. She was 93. Jerry Billings '63, MSE '72, of Kearney died April 9. He was 76. Dorothy (Florea) Bish '66 of Papillion died May 8. She was 87. Russell Bogue, Ph.D., ’49 of Lexington, Kentucky, died Feb. 17. He was 92. Susan (Schroder) Bolin '77 of Gibbon died June 14. She was 62. Brad Bowman '72 of Kearney died Feb. 12. He was 67. Denise (Smith) Coughlin '95 of Kearney died March 25. She was 62. Adam Curry ’97 of Colorado Springs, Colorado, died Nov. 3. He was 43. Glen Davenport ES '81 of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, died June 26. He was 90. Leoda (Fiene) Davis '73, MSE '77, of Lincoln died July 10. She was 86. Jessica (Parr) Dorn '00 of Kearney died July 8. She was 42. Daniel Geis '82 of Yakima, Washington, died March 7. He was 62. Janice E. Gudknecht MAE '77 of St. Paul, Minnesota, died July 2, 2016. She was 61. Sheryl (Rogers) Hanssen ’86 of Plattsmouth died Sept. 29. She was 54. Darius Holscher '87 of Kimball, South
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CLASS NOTES Dakota, died Aug. 28, 2016. He was 61. Larry Janecek ’71 of Mitchell died March 21. He was 68. Donald M. Kristensen of Minden died Sept. 13. He was 94. Donald is the father of UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen. Mary Lou (Martin) Kristensen, '52, MSE '62 of Minden died June 11. She was 87. Mary Lou is the mother of UNK Chancellor Doug Kristensen. Merlin "Beanie" Lawrence '62 of Elkhorn died Feb. 14. He was 76. Janet (Nelson) Lipska '73 of Seward died June 27. She was 69. Loretta Lockhorn ’63 of Kearney died May 3. She was 78. Ruth (Wendell) Lundberg '47 of Chico, California, died Feb. 4. She was 90. Max Manes ’84 of Beatrice died May 23. He was 55. Maurice "Maurie" May '66 of Kearney died May 23. He was 74. Donaleen (Stricker) Messersmith `72 of Kearney died August 7. She was 67. Paula Newhouse '15 of Millard died Apr 14.
She was 26. Clark Norblade '67 of Axtell died March 5. He was 72. Carolyn (Peterson) Niekum '58 of Sidney died March 16. She was 79, a former teacher and Sidney school board member. Beth Marie (Bauhard) Petersen ’82 of Axtell died Sept. 13. She was 58. Romona Sohrweid ’67 of Amherst died May 2. She was 82. Brandie (Mallam) Taylor '93 of Kearney died June 8. She was 46. James Van Marter Jr. '53, MAE '59, of Holdrege died July 20. He was 88. Charles “Chuck” Sandy ’67 of Osage Beach, Missouri, died Sept. 9. He was 74. Raymond Scott '74 of O'Neill died March 8. He was 74. Rod L. Shada MSE '72 of Grand Island died June 25. He was 71. Kent Smallcomb '64 of Kearney died June 30. He was 76. Robert L. Starr MSE '65 of Loveland, Colorado, died July 12. He was 85.
My today started when I realized I could get my master’s degree on my own terms. “I knew I wanted to go back to school, but I didn’t want classes to interfere with my work as a teacher and, living in a remote, rural area, I knew I couldn’t be on campus every day. At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, I created a schedule that worked for me and I learned both subject-area knowledge and teaching techniques that I could immediately apply in my classroom. Most of all, I loved the challenge.” Joanna Utecht Science/Math Education, MS Ed University of Nebraska at Kearney
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Mary (Sampy) Steele '60 of Omaha died Jan. 13. She was 78. Carol (McGraw) Swartz ‘78 of Grand Island died June 27, 2014. She was 83. Richard Swett ‘59 of Kearney died May 2. He was 84. Ken Trubey '60 of Ord died May 11. He was 78. Patsy (Woodman) Waddington '89 of Shelton died July 12. She was 81. Sean Weide ’89 of Omaha died May 29. He was 49. Larry Wells ’66 of Grand Island died May 5. He was 74. Diedrich “Dick” Wiegand '58 of Sun City West, Arizona, died Feb. 28. He was 84. Sen. John Wightman '59 of Lexington died Jan. 5. He was 78. Adella Wilken, teacher’s certificate ’49, BA ’56, of Hildreth died May 2. She was 89. Steven E. Vanderbeek '67 of Wahoo died July 12. He was 72. Eugenia (Farmer) Vannice '60 of Lincoln died July 6. She was 98.
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