Alumni Magazine-Spring 2023

Photo by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

Hoppy Camper!

Dozens of local third-grade students excitedly await the arrival of Capt. Barrington Irving of the Flying Classroom, who flew into the Delaware County Regional Airport last Summer to work with children and Ball State Education majors participating in the Summer Learning Fun at Camp Adventure day camp in Muncie. Read more about this program and many other Teachers College programs providing significant value to schools around the state on pages 14-15.

Photo by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

Providing Meaningful Value

Dear Alumni and Friends:

At Ball State University, a core component of our mission is to enhance the economic, environmental, and social vitality of our community, our state, and our world. It is our charge to provide value beyond the boundaries of our campus, while providing students with an excellent educational experience.

Our collective passion for providing that value is one of the many reasons I often say that I have the good fortune to serve as the president of Ball State University.

In this edition of our magazine, you will read many distinctive examples of programs and initiatives that include our students, faculty, staff, and alumni working individually and collectively on our shared mission.

For example, in our Career Center, our students have expanded opportunities to meet and establish meaningful relationships with some of our state’s top employers through our recently established Indiana Connection Lounge (pages 6-7). This space provides a networking environment for our students and business leaders, including alumni, seeking dependable, highly skilled graduates. The Lounge is a tangible example of our efforts to address workforce challenges in our state.

The cover of this edition depicts how our University has expanded our presence in Greater Fort Wayne, Ind., by opening Ball State at Electric Works (pages 8-9). We celebrated this space in December with a program that included Ball State alumni and other community members. Numerous Ball State alumni used their skills and talent to help develop Electric Works—a mixed-use site that enhances that region’s economy. Ball State’s space at Electric Works enables our students, faculty, and staff to work with industry and community partners in Northeast Indiana. As I said at the event, Ball State’s presence in Fort Wayne symbolizes the important work our University is doing throughout Indiana.

Also prominently featured in this edition is a story about Immersive Learning (pages 24-29). This educational approach has played a significant role in our institution’s mission to provide learning experiences beyond our classrooms for more than two decades. This story highlights five projects happening this Spring, illustrating the scope of work and the impact our students achieve.

I am proud of and grateful to everyone highlighted in these stories for their dedication and work. And I am proud of those Ball State community members who are also doing important work, but who are not mentioned in these pages. I hope these stories inspire you to continue our mission of providing meaningful value to the people in the communities we serve.

Sincerely,

Ball State University Alumni magazine is published twice yearly.

University Marketing and Communications Muncie, Indiana 47306 765-285-1560

Printed by EP Graphics, Berne, Indiana. Printer uses ink with soy oil, and all wastepaper and solvents are recycled.

Greg Fallon, ’04 Editor; Chief Digital Marketing and Communications Officer gmfallon@bsu.edu

Elizabeth Brooks, ’95 Senior Graphic Designer, Art and Production Director

President’s Cabinet

Charlene Alexander Chief Strategy Officer

Jean Kramer Crosby, ’96 President of Ball State Foundation and Alumni Association, Vice President for University Advancement

Deedie Dowdle

Vice President for Marketing and Communications

Ro-Anne Royer Engle, ’18 Vice President for Student Affairs

Sali Falling, MA ’88

Vice President and General Counsel

Alan Finn Vice President for Business Affairs and Treasurer

Paula Luff

Vice President for Enrollment Planning and Management

Loren Malm, ’86 Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer

Jeff Mitchell Director of Athletics

Becca Polcz Rice

Vice President for Governmental Relations and Industry Engagement

Susana Rivera-Mills

Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs

Geoffrey S. Mearns

President, Ball State University

PresidentMearns

Ball State University BallState

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officialballstate

ballstateuniversity

bsu.edu

Photo by Don Rogers, ’77

Lifetime Learning Efforts Growing

Amy Barsha spent the last 20 years working in continuing education at three public state universities. A native of upstate New York, Ms. Barsha became a Hoosier when she moved to Dyer, Ind., in 2013 to lead a continuing education division at a nearby regional university.  “I have always been attracted to the mission of continuing education,” Ms. Barsha explained. “When was an undergrad, I wasn’t 100 percent certain of my career path, so I studied liberal arts, where skills are broad. I later pursued a master’s degree in Education, which has allowed me to evolve to where I am today.”

Today, Ms. Barsha is assistant vice provost for Lifetime Learning at Ball State. The new non-credit division launched in late 2022 with a catalog of non-credit programs perfect for busy adults.

“What you need from your education changes over time. You might need a particular skill to qualify for a work-from-home job that works for your family, to prepare for graduate school, or to gain leadership skills to advance,” Ms. Barsha said. “Employers value this growth mindset. The market is now evolving into a competency-based environment. It’s about what you know and what you can do. That’s where we come in.”

Ways Alumni Can Engage with Lifetime Learning:

1 Consider developing a course in collaboration with Ball State faculty. Share your course idea on our website, bsu.edu/lifetimelearning.

2 Host a “Take Flight” work-based learning event for students at your workplace.

3 Connect with us online, and share our catalog and course updates.

4 Meet us at the Fishers Center. Plan a networking event, host a corporate gathering off-site, or take a professional development course.

Major Gifts, Land Donation Support Local Development

In recent Ball State Board of Trustees meetings, tangible examples of institutional news reinforce how the University continues to provide value beyond the physical boundaries of campus.

In September, the Board approved the University’s gift of 12 acres of land in Muncie to the city. Ultimately, the goal is for the land to be developed with 30-40 new homes. That would generate additional tax revenue for the city and Muncie Community Schools.

“Our decision to transfer this land to the city is yet another example of our University’s ongoing commitment to Muncie,” said Renae Conley, ’80 MBA ’82, Ball State Board of Trustees Chair.

Fallows Shine Light on Ball State-MCS Partnership

Washington Monthly, in announcing its 2022 “College Guide and Rankings,” highlighted Ball State University through the eyes of James and Dr. Deborah Fallows, esteemed journalists and bestselling authors (pictured below with Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns).

The Fallows, who were bestowed with honorary Doctors of Arts at Ball State’s Spring 2022 Commencement ceremony, were previously invited to Muncie by President Mearns, and have since written about Ball State’s innovative partnership with Muncie Community Schools, among other points of pride in the community.

THEN & NOW Top: Daily News staff work in their newsroom in 1972. Bottom: Current members of the Daily News staff work in their modern-day newsroom located in the Art and Journalism Building.

The Ball State Daily News Celebrates 100 Years

The Ball State Daily News celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2022— marking a century of being a reliable news source for the University’s campus and the surrounding Muncie community. That value is amplified by the vast number of Ball State students who honed their crafts while working on the Daily News (DN), later establishing meaningful careers in journalism and related fields to serve the greater good.

For this Washington Monthly project, Mr. Fallows “explains how the university, under the leadership of its energetic president, Geoffrey Mearns, accepted responsibility for running the city’s failing public schools.” Dr. Fallows, in her piece, “hones in on how the college’s student newspaper (The Ball State Daily News has all but taken over coverage of the schools from the hollowed-out local paper.”

The Fallows’ pieces can be found in their entirety at WashingtonMonthly.com.

The land is northwest of campus, just north of Heath Farm, and surrounded by other residential neighborhoods on the city’s north side.

In a Board meeting in December, the University announced two substantial gifts—$5 million from Marianne Glick and her husband, Mike Woods, and $2.5 million from June Scheumann—which will help fund the Performing Arts Center, the catalyst of the University’s Village Revitalization plan.

In recognition of their gifts, the Board approved the naming of the Marianne Glick and Mike Woods Lobby and the Scheumann Studio Theatre, which will both be located inside the facility. — Greg Fallon, ’04

“It’s a real privilege, truly an honor, to get to work with these students. And we’re fortunate to have the opportunity to play a small part in the paper’s amazing 100-year-and-counting history,” said Lisa RenzeRhodes, director of the Unified Media Lab and adviser of student publications at Ball State. “Not many college papers get to celebrate a century. So, we’re thankful the University, our alumni, and our community recognize the gem they have in the DN. We’re lucky, and we know it. And we work every day to do smart, responsible, ethical journalism.”

The first issue of the paper was published on March 30, 1922, under its original name, The Easterner. Today, the Daily News is one of the nation’s top collegiate student papers, and a multi award-winning publication.

The Daily News became one of only 19 newspapers in the country to earn a Pacemaker award in 2022. The Pacemaker is widely recognized as college journalism’s top honor. This is the fourth consecutive year that the Daily News has earned the award. The Daily News was also selected by the Associated Collegiate Press for the Top 100 Pacemaker list of “Best National Publications of All-Time.” — Landa Bagley

“Deb and Jim, I am grateful for the work that you do every day in this respect,” President Mearns told the Fallows during the Ball State Commencement ceremony last May. “Through your reporting and through the leadership of your foundation, you are promoting greater civic engagement, community renewal, and genuine dialogue among the citizens of our country.” — Andrew Walker, ’14

Credit: iStockphoto/ Drazen_

Indiana Connection Lounge Links Students with Employers

A first-of-its kind initiative, Ball State’s Indiana Connection Lounge is an intimate space and experience where alumni, employers, and students discuss career opportunities.

When Bret Pogemiller heard about Ball State University’s plans for its new Indiana Connection Lounge (ICL), his competitive juices started flowing.

For Mr. Pogemiller, a talent acquisition leader at IU Health, the ICL concept perfectly blended many of the key aspects of his job, including building and maintaining campus, community relations, and talent pipelines for Indiana’s largest healthcare provider.

Soon, the University would begin inviting state employers to spend the day on the Ball State campus to take advantage of the ICL’s intentional and strategic approach to career development, with its curated, concierge experience transforming normal recruiting experiences into a powerful talent pipeline development tool.

Mr. Pogemiller wasn’t just sold on the idea— he had to be first in line.

“I was super jazzed to partner with Ball State,” Mr. Pogemiller said. “When they were telling me, ‘Hey, we’re looking to launch. We want to partner with employers,’ I was like, ‘I want to be first. What date do I have to pick so I am first?’”

Ball State’s Career Center would indeed host IU Health as its first ICL client in September. The day was filled with prime opportunities for the company to tout its diverse career opportunities directly to students at the Health Professions Building, in numerous classrooms, at the Scramble Light, and on golf cart rides throughout campus. But when the IU Health contingent arrived at the new ICL facility around 1 p.m. that day, Mr. Pogemiller said they “had a line down the hallway of people waiting to get in to talk to us.”

“It was awesome,” he added.

For Jim McAtee, that experience for IU Health was the ideal launch for the ICL. Mr. McAtee, assistant vice president and executive director for career and professional development at Ball State, said the University is “really moving to try to enhance pathways for industry and higher education to collaborate.” And while Ball State will always support its students in their pursuit of fulfilling careers around the world, the ICL specifically addresses an imperative outlined in Goal 2 of the University’s strategic plan:

responding to the workforce and labor market needs of Indiana. The Lounge positively contributes to the state's economy and educational attainment objectives by connecting students with not only major employers but also small and medium-sized businesses and various regions of the state.

Recent data shows this focus is paying off. Ball State’s First Destination Report showed a 94-percent placement rate of the University’s Spring 2022 graduates. Of the students who reported employment, 78 percent work in Indiana, providing vital support for the state’s economy and adding robust skills to Indiana’s workforce.

“We want to create more connections between students, employers, and alumni,” Mr. McAtee said. “It’s exciting to invite large organizations like IU Health, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Penske Entertainment— as well as DHL, who does logistics and supply chain management, and Enterprise Holdings, a top recruiter of college graduates—to meet our students and expose them to these opportunities in Indiana. And it’s just as important for our students to meet with small- and medium-sized businesses that are the fabric of the state’s economy. Ball State students don’t have to seek out these opportunities; through the Indiana Connection Lounge we facilitate these connections. And, many times those companies bring back Ball State alums to help engage with students in the lounge.”

Located within Lucina Hall, the ICL is also a key resource for firstgeneration students, including those from diverse and economically challenged backgrounds, to “help fully leverage the socioeconomic ladder that higher education provides,” Mr. McAtee said.

“We wanted to create a space where students could come as they are and meet other people who are interested in their success,” Mr. McAtee said. “That was the vision for this; we were watching what was going on

in the marketplace, and we wanted to create a space where our students could create more social capital and networking and make it easy to start to understand the opportunities around them.”

A first-generation student himself, Dr. Jeff Bird certainly understands the value of a University meeting its students where they are. After participating in IU Health Day at the ICL in September, Dr. Bird, president at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, said he’s looking forward to making ICL visits a routine part of his company’s recruiting efforts—not only for doctors and nurses, but for other key positions in areas such as social work, accounting, athletic training, marketing, and more.

“Recruiting and retaining Ball State students in our community is a priority for both institutions, and this new concept and lounge will make that much easier to do,” Dr. Bird said. “As a first-generation student myself, I recognize how important these connections and opportunities can be. My organization thinks the possibilities with the lounge are great, and we look forward to continuing to refine and develop the process with Ball State leaders.”

Ball State alumni or other business representatives interested in learning more about the Indiana Connection Lounge can call 765-285-1522, or email careercenter@bsu.edu. — Andrew Walker, ’14

Engaging partners in industry

What was formerly the Office of Governmental Relations at Ball State is now Governmental Relations and Industry Engagement. The unit builds upon the University’s track record of engaging its industry partners to bolster its students’ educational experience and better serve the state.

As the director for Industry Engagement, Jeff Eads, ’97, serves to engage and empower state regions and industry to build intentional talent pipelines that encourage Ball State students to consider them as an attractive place to live and work.

Additionally, Mr. Eads helps Indiana employers understand the strategic ways in which they can engage with the University to equip their current employees and organizations.

Contact Mr. Eads at jleads@bsu.edu.

Opposite page: Dr. Jeff Bird, president of IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, speaks to Ball State students during “IU Health Day” at the Indiana Connection Lounge in September. This page: Located in Lucina Hall, the Indiana Connection Lounge is an intimate space where the University hosts alumni, employers, and students, helping facilitate one-on-one and small-group introductions.

Photos by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

Alumni Support Drives Ball State Presence

The University is poised to help the Fort Wayne area prosper and add to workforce pipeline while expanding student opportunities.

Ball State University has deepened its presence in the Greater Fort Wayne, Ind., area—creating opportunities for additional community partnerships with the University to grow. This furthers a workforce pipeline consistently stocked with skilled Ball State graduates who might choose to live and work in Northeast Indiana.

Tangible evidence of that deepened presence is Ball State at Electric Works.

Located within the sprawling mixed-use Electric Works development, Ball State at Electric Works is a place where students, faculty, and staff—initially from the University’s R. Wayne Estopinal College of Architecture and Planning (CAP)—will continue working with industry and community partners in and around Fort Wayne. Students will learn from professionals in their chosen field and be introduced to industries experiencing accelerated growth and prosperity in the region.

A kickoff celebration for Ball State at Electric Works was held Dec. 7. Numerous Ball State graduates attended the event, which showcased ways businesses can engage with Ball State to develop talent pipelines, equip current employees, promote the economic region, and do business with the University. Also on display was a community-based project by several of CAP’s Urban Planning students.

“Ball State at Electric Works is a tangible symbol of the important work our University is doing all across Indiana— work that connects our campus resources and our students with businesses and communities that are helping to spur our state’s economy to greater prosperity for all citizens,” said Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns.

CAP’s involvement at the Electric Works site is expected to be a catalyst for other Ball State colleges to leverage their expertise in the Northeast Indiana region. Future opportunities are being explored in the healthcare and education fields.

Through a Ball State Immersive Learning project, and with guidance from faculty advisors, CAP students will learn in this hands-on, real-world experience. Each semester’s project will vary. A studio class will be paired with a project based in the Fort Wayne area; in many cases, area industry firms will advise the classes. The space at Electric Works serves as a meeting place for classes, with conference rooms and large-group spaces available as needed.

CAP has also established a fund for a scholarship that will support the work of selected students in future studio projects. Fort Wayne-based firms and individuals contributing to this fund are MKM Design, Design Collaborative, MartinRiley, Elevatus Architecture, MSKTD, and Matt and Lisa Momper. Matt Momper, ’83, serves as a member on Ball State’s Board of Trustees.

Ball State has more than 14,000 alumni living in Northeastern Indiana, including several hundred CAP graduates—many of whom worked directly on the multimillion-dollar Electric Works mixed-use development led by Ancora Partners. Fort Wayne native and 1991 Ball State CAP graduate Jeff Kingsbury is a principal at Ancora.

Mr. Kingsbury has compiled a list of more than 100 Ball State graduates he knows were involved in the development of the Electric Works project—a collection of Cardinals in a variety of career fields, such as Dr. Debra Faye Williams-Robbins, EdD EdS ’21, deputy superintendent with Fort Wayne Community Schools, and John Urbahns, ’05, president and CEO of Greater Fort Wayne Inc.

“Once we really did the math and started to figure out the impact that Ball State graduates have had on this project, it gave us a window into how every college within the University could find ways to engage with Electric Works, which is going to be significant to this community, region, and state for a long time,” Mr. Kingsbury said. Ball State has a significant track record of engaging with industry partners to bolster students’ educational experiences and better serve Indiana, said Jeff Eads, director for Industry Engagement at Ball State. “We are thrilled to work with employers and community leaders in and around Fort Wayne to help the Northeast Indiana region flourish,” he said.

— Landa Bagley

Top: Ball State alumni and friends at the Dec. 7 “An Evening with Ball State at Electric Works” kickoff celebration listen as University President Geoffrey S. Mearns addresses the crowd.

Lower left: R. Wayne Estopinal College of Architecture and Planning students discuss their projects with attendees at the Dec. 7 kickoff celebration.

Lower right: Dr. Debra Faye WilliamsRobbins and John Urbahns are two of an estimated 100-plus Ball State graduates who played a role in the development of the Electric Works project.

Photos by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

Plants, Planets, and Paintings:

Ball State’s Hidden Gems

Ball State provides tremendous value to students, faculty, and staff as well as visitors to campus from the local community and beyond. Three engaging on-campus options are located on the west side of the University. Explore these cultural enrichment sites for free.

David Owsley Museum of Art

• Browse more than 11,000 works representing 5,000 years of civilization

• Artwork from all seven continents displayed

• Collection constantly rotating

• Focus on diversity

• Displays national-level exhibitions

DOMA’s Associate Director Wins Two Awards

Managing student employees may be a small line in the job description of Rachel Buckmaster, ’95, associate director of the David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA). But she does not take the duty lightly—and others have noticed.

Ms. Buckmaster won the 2022 Ball State Student Employment Supervisor of the Year Award and the corresponding award from the Midwest Association of Student Employment Administrators (MASEA).

Dr. Joe and Alice Rinard Orchid Greenhouse

• Enjoy the largest collegiate collection of orchids in the U.S.—over 2,100!

• Always in full bloom, even in the Winter

• Visit the new expansion that immerses guests in a simulated tropical rainforest

• Free Saturday programs in the Nature Lab for families

• Live animals! Bees, turtles, frogs, and fish

• Art exhibits by Ball State students and local artists

Charles W. Brown Planetarium

• Explore the night sky in the largest planetarium in Indiana

• Learn space trivia to impress your friends

• Experience a realistic night sky, free from light pollution

• Be a scientist and explore science concepts at the pre-show, hands-on activity stations

• Understand how history and culture are reflected in astronomy

• More specifically, visit for the Celestial Event: Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024, starting at 1:52 p.m.

“Rachel prioritizes our well-being while providing as much care as she can give,” said Brennan Hill, student guard at DOMA. “She takes the time to know every worker. The museum feels like home, and the staff is like family.”

Ms. Buckmaster supervises 35-40 student guards, interns, and assistants each semester.

In addition, she serves as the

museum’s operations manager and handles publicity, outreach efforts, finances, and plays a significant role in museum exhibitions and acquisitions.

To Ms. Buckmaster, supervising student employees requires more than managing payroll and work schedules. She takes the time to connect with the students—learning their interests and finding ways their roles in the museum align with their goals. These connections benefit both Ms. Buckmaster and DOMA.

“Working with students helps me continue learning every day,” Ms. Buckmaster said. “Our student employees and their input are so important to the museum’s success.” — Jennifer Criss, ’98

Ms. Buckmaster brings value to her students as evidenced by the many letters received for her nomination.

‘A Great Source of Pride’

Bestowed with an honorary Doctor of Laws in December, Dick Emens continues to honor his father’s Ball State legacy through the Emens Leadership Scholarship program.

As he stood upon the Worthen Arena stage in December, receiving his honorary Doctor of Laws degree at Ball State University’s Fall Commencement ceremony, Dick Emens was taken back more than 77 years to some of his most cherished memories.

Mr. Emens was just a young boy in 1945 when his father, John R. Emens, began his historic run as the sixth president of Ball State University. Early in President Emens’ tenure, he provided his children with an example in leadership they wouldn’t forget.

Dick recalls how his father and mother, Aline, invested themselves into developing personal relationships with every faculty member and spouse on campus. Frequently the Emens home would be packed with visitors enjoying a home-cooked meal or Sunday tea.

“My brother and I were used to a lot of people in the house, but we also understood it was part of our dad’s vision to grow the institution,” Dick Emens said. “He truly understood the value of relationship building to just about anything you want to accomplish.”

From 1945 to 1968, President Emens presided over one of the greatest periods of growth in the University’s history. Over that 23-year run, student enrollment at Ball State increased from just more than 1,000 to 13,000, the institution earned university status from the Indiana General Assembly, and, under President Emens’ guidance, Ball State developed and executed its first long-range campus plan.

President Emens retired in 1968; he passed away eight years later. Today, one of Ball State’s most recognized landmarks, Emens Auditorium, bears his name. Upon his father’s passing, Dick Emens was so touched by President Emens’ legacy that he decided to create a

leadership scholarship in his memory to bring some of the best and brightest high school students to Ball State.

Today, the Emens Leadership Scholarship has grown to 15 awards annually, with some 679 applicants in 2022. More than $1 million was raised in the latest fundraising drive that consisted of 165 donors, 25 new endowed funds, and an important matching component from the George and Frances Ball Foundation.

To date, 300 Emens Scholars have graced the Ball State campus. The program has also been widely acknowledged as a strong recruiting tool for the University.

“It’s amazing when you consider that over half of those who don’t receive the scholarship come here anyway because of the exposure to Ball State they received during the application process,” said Dr. John Emert, dean of Honors College and professor of Mathematical Sciences. Dr. Emert has chaired the 10-member Emens Leadership Scholarship committee since 2017.

Michele Musson, ’06 MBA ’07, said she “wasn’t at the very top of my high school class or the valedictorian like many of our winners,” but was grateful that the Emens Scholars selection committee instead emphasized her leadership efforts in high school and community involvement.

The Emens Leadership Scholarship would propel Ms. Musson into academic success at Ball State, and, eventually, a fulfilling career as pharmaceutical marketing director at Eli Lilly and Company. And, like many former Emens Scholars, she created her own fund—the Musson Family Scholarship—to benefit the Emens Leadership Scholarship program; she is also honored to serve on the scholarship’s selection committee with Mr. Emens.

“Dick himself reads every essay from every applicant,” Ms. Musson said. “He takes a personal interest in all of them, whether or not they win a scholarship. He is very honored that these outstanding kids apply for an award that bears his father’s name.”

Dick Emens wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Every person that is an Emens Leadership Scholar is a part of our extended family always,” Mr. Emens said. “We keep up on their progress, and it’s such a great source of pride to see their successes. The monetary awards are certainly important, but being an Emens Scholar goes way beyond that. And that’s the way Dad would have wanted it.” — Dan Forst, ’85

For more on this story, visit magazine.bsu.edu

From Mentees To Mentors

Mentors are a cornerstone of success. Goal 2 of Ball State’s strategic plan calls for each graduate and student to have access to a coach or mentor to help “develop, implement, and execute a lifetime learning plan.” In Fall 2021, Miller College of Business embedded mentoring into its core curriculum through the SOAR (Success, Opportunity, Acumen, and Readiness) Program. During this one-credit-hour course, second-year students create a profile on Cardinals Connect, the University’s online professional network, to be matched with a professional working in a field related to the student’s major.

Joel Whitesel, ’89 MA ’90 (pictured below), director of student success and retention, guides students through monthly networking and professional development exercises and events.

The students who piloted SOAR as first-year students—now juniors—have helped evolve the program. Based on the feedback provided, Mr. Whitesel paired first-year SOAR students with mentors in the third-year SOAR class, while second-year SOAR students were connected with professional mentors.

“Many first-year students are hungry to learn about the college experience from juniors and seniors,” he said. “This program challenges our juniors and seniors to exercise leadership and feel the rewards of giving back professionally, which we hope they will continue to do after they graduate.”

Learn more about the SOAR program and sign up for Cardinals Connect to explore personal and professional connection opportunities for the Ball State community. — Kate H. Elliott

The Emens family, circa late 1940s.

Pictured: John R., Aline, J. Richard (Dick), and David Emens

Opportunities to Grow Through Real-World Learning

Ball State Teachers College’s community-engaged learning programs provide significant value to schools in Muncie and around the state.

campers a distinctive and exceptional learning experience in contrast to typical, high-cost Summer camps that focus more on childcare rather than education.

For Ball State’s students majoring in Education, the outdoor settings provide real-word, relevant, hands-on lessons they can eventually take with them to their own classrooms.

“Instead of just lecturing about erosion, our students can take children to the pond to see it first-hand. Or, when learning about plants, students can go on nature walks or visit the camp garden. When learning about animals, a scent station and hunting cameras can be set up and can be checked daily for animal activity,”

Ms. Allred said. “It teaches our Ball State students to be creative and resourceful, and how to make learning for children engaging and applicable to their lives.”

Camp Adventure and Camp Achieve are just two of many Teachers College programs that provide significant value to schools in Muncie and around the state. Others include:

• The award-winning Schools Within the Context of Community program, where Ball State students are immersed in a historically Black neighborhood in Muncie for a semester. They partner with community mentors and work with diverse children and families both in and outside of school.

• Urban Immersion in Indianapolis, where students are immersed in the community in Wayne Township, working closely with area teachers.

• Civic Renewal through Education for Agency, Tolerance, and Engagement (CREATE)—an innovative approach to instruction, student learning, and professional development in civics, that integrates American history, geography, government, and media literacy. A Ball State team is creating extensive class resources and monthly professional development for teachers, a symposium with national experts, and a Civic Learning Academy for both teachers and students.

• A first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program in the nation that will support the teacher pipeline in Indiana. Students can enroll in the five-year program beginning their junior year of high school and can graduate a year early having earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education from the University.

As he approached the Delaware County Regional Airport runway in his Bombardier Learjet 40XR, Capt. Barrington Irving could’ve sworn he could see a swarm of people moving about the property.

Traveling to Muncie last Summer as part of his Flying Classroom program—a supplemental digital Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM+) curriculum—Capt. Irving was under the impression he would meet some Ball State officials and then head to Camp Adventure. There, he would work with the third graders and Ball State’s Education majors participating in the Summer Learning Fun at Camp Adventure (SLFCA) day camp before flying back to his hometown of Miami.

Instead, Capt. Irving quickly realized that the moving “swarm” was dozens of children jumping up and down with his picture in their hands, bussed to the airport to provide him with a special greeting.

“It was just awesome to see young people that excited,” Capt. Irving said. “I made my co-captain do the landing because I wanted to enjoy that moment.”

Capt. Irving, who had been working with the SLFCA campers virtually prior to his visit, gave the children a personal tour of his aircraft before they all headed to Camp Adventure, where their STEM education, led by Ball State teaching majors, continued. Capt. Irving was so touched by the group’s reception that he provided campers with a pizza and ice cream party for their final day of camp.

“This was an incredible and memorable experience for everyone,” said Stacey Allred, ’95 MS ’01, associate lecturer of Elementary Education at Ball State. “For some of the children, it was their first time at an airport and seeing a plane.

Capt. Irving was engaging, kind, enthusiastic, and attentive.”

Camp Adventure and Camp Achieve—Ball State’s annual five-week Summer social skills autism day camp for children 6-12 years of age—are both offered at no cost and provide

This kind of community-engaged learning is what sets Ball State apart from other teacher preparation providers, according to Teachers College Dean Dr. Anand Marri.

“At Ball State, our education students can be active in the community from the very first semester,” Dean Marri said.

“This community-engaged learning supports the development of ‘community teachers’ who contribute to and participate in a collective will to make educational equity a reality for all children.

“Community involvement isn’t just about serving our neighbors. The benefits are mutual,” he continued. “These experiences can provide students with opportunities to grow through real-world learning.”

That’s why the educators who come from institutions like Ball State are the “real heroes,” according to Capt. Irving.

“Yeah, I get to show off and meet the kids—and yes, my team gets to work with them. But the real heroes are the folks who create the types of educational experiences that inspire and motivate kids in the classroom,” he

said. — Andrew Walker, ’14

Left and above: Local third-grade students, Ball State Education majors, and Charlie Cardinal greet Capt. Barrington Irving at the Delaware County Regional Airport. As part of his Flying Classroom Program, Capt. Irving flew into Muncie last Summer to work with students participating in the Summer Learning Fun at Camp Adventure (SLFCA) day camp. Below: Elementary Education majors guide students through the low ropes course at Camp Adventure. SLFCA is one of many community-engaged Teachers College programs offering value to schools in Indiana.

Photos by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

Cardinals Extend History of Holiday Help

For many years, Ball State athletic teams are part of annual holiday effort to help local families.

In December 2004, Al Holdren, ’85, and his wife, Chris, decided to forego Christmas presents for themselves and use the money to provide two families in need with a tree and gifts.

They called their effort “Secret Families,” a name that came from a friend’s suggestion that the donors’ identities be kept “a secret” from the families.

Today, Secret Families is one of the largest single-day volunteer event in America with about 2,200 participants and more than 3,500 families in need assisted to-date. The families are referred to the program by school principals.

A variety of groups from Ball State, including athletic teams, are longtime supporters of the Secret Families initiative.

“From almost the day we started, Ball State athletic teams, fraternities, faculty, and students have been right there with us,” Mr. Holdren said.

Ball State athletic teams—including baseball, softball, soccer, and men’s and women’s golf—along with fraternities Phi Sigma Epsilon and Alpha Tau Omega, have helped with shopping, truck-loading, gift-wrapping, delivery, and other tasks done on the first Saturday in December.

“I was able to get our entire team involved with Secret Families in 2013,” said Ball State head baseball coach Rich Maloney. “Our kids get exposure to people in very real need and come away with a feeling that they’ve done something to truly help others less fortunate.”

One of those players was freshman shortstop Dylan Grego. He helped make deliveries to Delaware County families.

“It was life-changing for me,” he said. “I have such a greater appreciation for the

TO BE HERE’ ‘FIRED UP

New Director of Athletics Jeff Mitchell poised to build upon strong foundation with experience, character, and leadership.

To say that Jeff Mitchell was elated to be offered the director of athletics position at Ball State University would be an understatement.

“I told President Mearns I was going to have to run up and down our football field a few times to get my heart to calm down a little bit, because it was racing,” Mr. Mitchell recalled, referring to the fateful early-February call he received from Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns.

blessings I have in my own life. And I’m so glad Coach Maloney involves us with this effort.”

Men’s head golf coach Mike Fleck sees participation in Secret Families as being aligned with Ball State’s mission.

“President Mearns has stressed the concept of ‘servant leadership’ and the critical importance of Ball State being involved in our community,” said Coach Fleck. “Secret Families is a prime example, and I’ve even had former players come back to help after they graduated.” — Dan Forst, ’85

For more information on Secret Families, or to donate or volunteer for 2023, visit secretfamilies.org

As excited as he was, however, Mr. Mitchell knew how important it was to include his family—especially his wife, April—in the final decision. Just three hours later, Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell decided to call President Mearns together. They couldn’t wait to accept the role and don the Cardinal and White.

“I get asked from time to time about, ‘What is your dream job?’ I’ve never been able to be specific about a particular location, in terms of a destination. It was more of an opportunity,” Mr. Mitchell said. “I felt more and more comfortable that this was a place where I could contribute. And the values, in terms of alignment, both professionally and personally, couldn’t have been better. I’m excited to be a part of the team.”

Mr. Mitchell comes to Ball State from the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, Miss., where he served as deputy director of athletics since 2018. In all, he has more than two decades of experience in higher education and athletics administration, having managed the daily operations both at Southern Miss and at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, Calif., where he worked in various athletics roles over a 12-year period.

At both stops—as well as in previous roles at his alma maters Millsaps College and the University of Mississippi— Mr. Mitchell built an impressive track record of advancing organizational development, enhancing revenue generation, and hiring diverse coaches and staff.

What stood out most to President Mearns about Mr. Mitchell throughout the hiring process was his character.

“Jeff has a values-based approach to leadership that embodies our enduring values,” President Mearns said.

“I am confident that Jeff will help our University extend a legacy of excellence in Ball State Athletics—a tradition that instills pride and passion among our students, our graduates, and our fans.”

Having officially started in his new role March 20, Mr. Mitchell points at Ball State’s already-strong reputation in both academics and athletics as the ideal foundation from which to propel the Cardinals into even greater heights.

“I want us to be the class of the MAC (Mid-American Conference) in terms of how we educate our students, how we compete for championships,” Mr. Mitchell said of his vision for the University’s athletics department. “I want us to invest locally and be really strong and proud of who we are as an athletic department at Ball State. And then I want us to grow regionally and nationally.

“We’re fired up to be here,” he continued, referencing his wife and two children, daughter, Harper Wynne (14), and son, Carson (9). “My family and I are excited to be part of the Ball State family.” — Andrew Walker, ’14

Photos by Jordan Kartholl, ’10

Jeff Mitchell, left, and his family—daughter, Harper Wynne; son, Carson; and wife, April—clap along to the Ball State Fight Song during an event to formally introduce Mr. Mitchell as Ball State’s new Director of Athletics, Feb. 6, 2023, at the Ball State Alumni Center.

Photos by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

The New ‘Voice of the Cardinals’

Mick Tidrow, ’18 MA ’20, is the new Voice of the Cardinals. Named to the position in July 2022, Mr. Tidrow serves as the radio play-by-play voice for all Ball State football and men’s basketball games, and select ESPN+ broadcasts. At 27 years old, he’s believed to be the youngest Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) Division I play-by-play broadcaster in the nation.

He previously served as a television play-by-play broadcaster for Stadium and BEK Sports Network in North Dakota.

Mr. Tidrow is just the third Voice of the Cardinals in nearly 50 years, preceded by Morry Mannies, ’60 MA ’64, (1956-2012) and Joel Godett (2012-22).

Mr. Tidrow sat down with Alumni Magazine to answer a few questions about his new role at Ball State:

Does the fact that you’re a Ball State alumnus change how you call the games?

Not really. Certainly, I’m always pulling for the Cardinals, but I also need to provide an objective account of the game.

SPEAKING FROM EXPERIENCE

All roads lead home. Made up entirely of alumni, the Ball State women’s basketball assistant coaching staff signifies that theme and more.

Audrey McDonald-Spencer, ’10, Jauwan Scaife, ’11 MS ’13, and Moriah Monaco, ’18, all played for the Cardinals and understand the culture surrounding one of the University’s most successful programs.

is to make it back to the NCAA Tournament, and I am honored that I can speak from experience because there’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

Mr. Scaife is in his first year as an assistant coach. He played for the Ball State men’s team from 2009-13 and was a Second-Team All-MAC selection as a senior.

In that regard, what’s your broadcasting style?

My degrees are through the Sports Link program, and I follow the “SEE” method that I learned there: Storytelling, Entertainment, and Engagement. I try hard to put my audience at the game.

You’re only the third person in this role in some 50 years. How does that feel?

I’m honored beyond words. Someone jokingly asked me if I’d ever wear sweaters in the booth like Morry did, but I’m just humbled to sit in the same seat as he and Joel did.

Who’s your biggest supporter and fan?

That’s easy. Without the love of my wife Gabi (’19), I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’m the luckiest guy in the world. — Dan Forst, ’85

Consistent Success

Under the direction of head coach Brady Sallee, the Ball State women’s basketball team is among the winningest programs in the Mid-American Conference. Upon his arrival in 2012 through the 2021-22 season, the Cardinals amassed seven postseason appearances.

Ball State also produced its all-time leading scorer (Nathalie Fontaine, ’16), all-time leading rebounder (Oshlynn Brown, ’21) and all-time assists leader (Carmen Grande, ’17).

“I believe having a staff made up entirely of Ball State alums is truly priceless,” said 11th-year head coach Brady Sallee. “When they explain how special this University is, they are speaking from experience.”

Ms. McDonald-Spencer is the longesttenured assistant coach at seven years. She was a key member of the 2008-09 Cardinals team that finished with a 26-9 record and shocked powerhouse Tennessee, 71-55, in the NCAA Tournament—one of the most significant victories in the history of Ball State Athletics.

“I will sometimes talk to recruits about that Tennessee game, but I stress to them that actions speak louder than words,” Ms. McDonald-Spencer said. “Our goal each year

“I’m a Muncie Central grad and have walked the same sidewalks that my prospective recruits would walk,” Mr. Scaife said. “My prospects see the love I have for Ball State and appreciate what I was able to accomplish here.”

Ms. Monaco, now in her second year as an assistant coach, was a two-time all-conference honoree at Ball State from 2015-18 and played in 126 games.

“All of the assistant coaches have a unique perspective to bring to the table, and mine is that I actually played for Coach Sallee,” Ms. Monaco said. “Coach Sallee makes you a better player and a better person, and when you combine that with my love for Ball State, I can deliver a compelling message to our prospective players.” — Dan Forst, ’85

Alumna Working With Colts

When Jillian Hacker, ’18, started last July as outreach services coordinator at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics in Indianapolis, little did she know her first day would hold a huge surprise.

Forté serves as the team physicians for the Indianapolis Colts, and before Ms. Hacker could get settled at her desk, she was offered the opportunity to be the first-ever athletic trainer for the Colts’ cheerleading squad.

“I was both shocked and elated,” said Ms. Hacker, who earned her bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science at Ball State. “Forté knew of my athletic training background and felt I’d be the perfect fit to work with the Colts cheerleaders.”

Since taking on her position, Ms. Hacker has spent considerable time with the cheerleaders. Not only is she present for the squad’s two practices per week, but she is also a resource during Colts’ home games, arriving at Lucas Oil Stadium as early as 6 a.m. for a 1 p.m. kickoff.

“I’m always close by during the game,” she said. “And it’s just an incredible thrill for me to get to do this.”

As an athletic trainer for a high-performing team, Ms. Hacker also draws from her own experience as a student-athlete at Ball State, where she was a four-year letter winner on the gymnastics team. — Dan Forst, ’85

All three of the women’s basketball coaching assistants played for Ball State.

Photo by Bobby Ellis, ’13

Photo courtesy of Indianapolis Colts

(Left to right) Audrey McDonald-Spencer, ’10, Jauwan Scaife, ’11 MS ’13, and Moriah Monaco, ’18

Community Engagement

Ball State University’s Office of Community Engagement serves as the backbone for the East Central Indiana Talent Collaborative, a regional collective impact initiative designed to improve talent attraction, talent development, and talent connection in partnership with more than 150 key stakeholders (including businesses, organizations, groups, and community leaders) with 19 coalitions in nine counties —Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Grant, Henry, Jay, Randolph, Rush, and Wayne.

Ball State Dance Marathon

raised $662,763 for Riley Children’s Foundation during the last two years

Value from Our Colleges

College of Communication, Information, and Media

Ball State Daily News recently celebrated

100

years

of reporting by students, helping to inform both campus and local community

35+ student run organizations

many of which provide value to public audiences

R. Wayne Estopinal College of Architecture and Planning

Students routinely work with community partners. As an example, for 18 semesters a Renovation of Residential Structures course has designed the renovations of 47 houses in Muncie for community partners.

College of Health

Interprofessional Community Clinics provided services to Muncie and Delaware County community members with more than 11,000 appointments booked in 2021-2022.

Campus-wide community engagement projects in 2022

In the last two years, more than 2,300 students have participated in community service for a combined 48,000 hours of service

BALL STATE CAMPAIGN

In 2022, more than 640 students & employees participated in the United Way Day of Action, resulting in 1,200 hours of volunteer work

Nearly $300,000 raised over the last two years

Since 2014, Ball State United Way campaigns have raised more than $1.31 MILLION (not including matching funds)

In 23 years of Immersive Learning programs, students have executed nearly

3,500 PROJECTS

many with community partners

Academic Support for Community Supporting the Indiana Economy of freshman ’22 class from Indiana 91% of Spring ’22 graduates remained in Indiana after gaining employment

78% 58% of those projects have happened in East Central Indiana

of Teachers College graduates remain in Indiana to teach

Federal grants for $2.6 million and $1.5 million recently awarded from U.S. Department of Education to support inclusive approach for schools to identify and support gifted students with disabilities and professional development for teachers to promote student learning in American civics, history, and geography, as well as media literacy, respectively.

Teachers College oversees Burris Laboratory School and the Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities—both consistently ranked among the nation’s top high schools.

College of Fine Arts

More than 300 PERFORMANCES by the College of Fine Arts each year, all available to the public.

The David Owsley Museum of Art , accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, houses more than 11,000 works of art.

Teachers College Miller College of Business

Miller College of Business students in Computer Information Systems built a powerful cluster computer and used it to test complex software for the U.S. Department of Defense

Those students have continued to use the computer to work with area businesses.

Graduates are engaged in 3,200 clinical hours annually in the Counseling Practicum Clinic. The clinic is a part of the Interprofessional Community Clinics and is open to the public.

70% Licensed certified speech-language pathologists in Indiana that are Ball State grads

College of Sciences and Humanities

The Charles W. Brown Planetarium is the largest in Indiana with more than 20,000 visitors per year

The state-of-the-art projector can simulate a night sky with 10 million stars, and the facility can seat 150 people per show. All programs are free.

Since 1998, nearly 400 alumni from the Military Science program have been commissioned as officers, with 55% going on to active duty and 45% going into the National Guard

PUBLIC SERVICE

The Bowen Center for Public Affairs surveys Indiana residents annually about their political and social concerns. The results help inform the General Assembly and other elected state officials.

Executive Education workshops and training programs pull from each discipline within Miller College of Business to feature content like innovation, teambuilding, management, entrepreneurship, accounting, marketing, and more to meet the specific needs of business leaders.

The ways in which Ball State provides value to its community, region, and state are far too numerous to capture entirely. But, from institutional efforts to collective impact by our students, here is a sampling of the ways our University positively impacts the world.

A Profound Effect

By 2024, every incoming Ball State undergraduate student will be required to have completed at least one “High Impact Practice” course. Many students have already realized the value that these classes are, and will be, providing.

By Andrew Walker, ’14

Erika Malone, ’22, admits she wasn’t quite sure what to expect when she signed up for Dr. Adam Kuban’s class, “Sustainability Stories: Media and Mapping to Promote Awareness of Sustainable Activities.”

On the brink of earning her diploma, Ms. Malone knew her Journalism/Magazine Media major included a requirement for students to take at least six credit hours of High Impact Practices-based coursework. But she thought, “Sustainability? What does that have to do with journalism?”

Yet, one award-winning semester later, after having her work published in newspapers across the state of Indiana, the importance of this High Impact Practices course at Ball State was crystal clear to Ms. Malone.

“I was a little hesitant at first, but the class overall was amazingly helpful,” Ms. Malone said. “I got so much out of it.”

Ball State takes its High Impact Practice initiatives seriously. In fact, by 2024, the University’s strategic plan spells out that, “Every student completes at least one course that includes one of the following high-impact practices: undergraduate research; immersive learning; study abroad or study away; or a course that focuses on a societal issue or global challenge and that engages students with people across diverse disciplines, cultures, and thought.”

Dr. Jackie Grutsch McKinney, director of Immersive Learning and High Impact Practices and a professor of English at Ball State, said research from Dr. George Kuh, founding director of the National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment, has put into proper perspective the positive effect these High Impact Practices can have on undergraduate students.

“The research shows that if students participate in at least one of these High Impact Practices, they generally have, across all demographics, a higher

GPA, higher graduation rate, and a higher persistence rate,” Dr. Grutsch McKinney said.

Dr. Grutsch McKinney said Ball State intentionally chose its four High Impact Practices categories—Undergraduate Research, Immersive Learning, Study Abroad or Study Away, and Societal Issues or Global Challenge—because, “Students wouldn’t necessarily just ‘bump into’ them along the way in their major; it’s something they have to go out of their way to experience.”

While classes that feature research, Immersive Learning, and study abroad and away opportunities are certainly nothing new at Ball State, Dr. Grutsch McKinney said the University is continuing to develop its fourth High Impact Practices category: Societal Issues or Global Challenge. Those classes, according to definitions provided by the University, will be intended to, “Help students explore cultures, life experiences, and worldviews different from their own.”

“I definitely think these courses are happening in some form on campus already, but we haven’t moved from definition to implementation on that one,” Dr. Grutsch McKinney said. “So, there’s no courses formally right now for that High Impact Practice, because we still have to figure out what would be the requirements for a class to be designated in that way.”

One of the program’s most notable imperatives at Ball State is its focus on providing a positive differential impact on historically underserved student populations. According to Dr. Grutsch McKinney, students in the “historically underserved” category who participate in High Impact

Photos: Students in Dr. Adam Kuban’s Advanced Writing and Reporting course get their hands dirty in the greenhouse at Growing Places Indy. As part of the “Sustainability Stories” Immersive Learning project, Dr. Kuban’s Journalism students produce original media content highlighting organizations around the state that prioritize sustainability; Geography students in Dr. Adam Berland’s GIS Design course then incorporate that content into a publicly available, interactive online map.

Practice courses can significantly “chip away” at longstanding equity gaps that exist in areas such as GPA and graduation and retention rates.

“Historically there’s been this big equity gap in graduation rates for Black and Latinx students, as well as first generation and low-income students,” Dr. Grutsch McKinney said.

“So, while our High Impact Practices are not in place just for underserved students—we want all students to participate— the research shows a compensatory effect for traditionally underserved students.

“We think that High Impact Practices are those kinds of experiences that can change students’ trajectories— or helps them connect with a whole new set of people,” Dr. Grutsch McKinney continued. “I mean, Immersive Learning in particular, they’re working collaboratively, and so they really get to know each other, and it can be profound for them.”

While Ms. Malone was already on the path to earning a degree in Journalism, she said the real-world experience she gained during her Sustainability Stories class with Dr. Kuban set in motion an epiphany of sorts. Her piece about a lack of regulation of private wells in rural Indiana communities appeared in The Star Press in Muncie, the Courier & Journal in Lafayette, and the Courier & Press in Evansville, and was one of several student-created stories that eventually won an award for Best Sustainability Education by Muncie Clean & Beautiful.

Ms. Malone, who graduated from Ball State in December, touted her piece in job interviews, and in January, she began her career as a reporter at The Tribune newspaper in Seymour, Ind.

“I would say that the High Impact Practices course really confirmed to me that I wanted to be a journalist. This is the field I’m supposed to be in,” Ms. Malone said. “And especially throughout college students’ studies, it’s important for them to encounter these High Impact Practices, because it gives them real-world experiences.” 

Photos by Robbie Mehling, ’11 MA ’14

COLLECTIVE CHANGE

After more than two decades of work by faculty and students, Immersive Learning projects at Ball State continue to provide community partners with ongoing value.

By Greg Fallon,

F

or more than two decades, one phrase has especially defined transformational experiences for Ball State undergraduate students while providing unparalleled value and support to community partners: Immersive Learning.

The University’s distinctive Immersive Learning approach began at The Virginia B. Ball Center in the early 2000s. It was established—and remains so to this day—as a high-impact practice that involves collaborative, studentdriven teams. Students, led by faculty members, work to earn course credit while teaming with community partners to address their challenges by creating a product that has lasting impact.

“Students—this generation in particular—want to make a difference. When they participate in Immersive Learning classes, they get to make an impact while they are still in college,” said Dr. Jackie Grutsch McKinney, director of Immersive Learning and High Impact Practices and professor of English. “Many of their classes ask them to imagine how they might apply their learning, but Immersive Learning demands that they do it and do it pretty quickly.”

Since the Immersive Learning approach was established, Ball State students and faculty have carried out nearly 3,500 Immersive Learning projects, generating more than 48,000 student experiences. This Spring, more than 80 Immersive Learning courses are available to students.

As Ball State prioritizes supporting neighbors and communities, roughly 58 percent of all projects have been carried out with community partners in East Central Indiana. Teachers College and the College of Health have executed more than 90 percent of their Immersive Learning projects in East Central Indiana.

“It is an understatement to say the impact of two decades of Immersive Learning projects is profound,” Dr. Grutsch McKinney said. “I’d wager that almost every person in Muncie has been impacted directly or indirectly by Immersive Learning in some fashion. Maybe they’ve participated in a community health program, visited a museum exhibit, viewed a documentary, engaged with social media, or have seen homes in their neighborhood rehabilitated by Immersive Learning classes. Maybe their kids have learned something from Immersive Learning students that aren’t always taught in schools, such as construction, computer science, dance, horseback riding, debate, or philosophy.

“Of course, we have heard of the butterfly effect—one small action somewhere ripples out, resulting in big changes,” she continued. “Well, with nearly 50,000 Ball State students participating in Immersive Learning over the years, the analogy no longer holds. Immersive Learning collectively is a force enacting change in massive waves.”

To follow are five examples of Immersive Learning projects at Ball State. Collectively, they epitomize the nature of the work by students and faculty. That work is ongoing, diverse, and meaningful in many ways.

Interdisciplinary Conservation Promotion

F irst offered as a course in Spring 2018, “Conservation Tales” has garnered more than $76,000 in grants and led to educational experiences for students in Florida and various zoos throughout the Midwest.

Conservation Tales brings together faculty from the Department of Biology and the School of Art—Dr. Tom McConnell, professor of Science Education, and Barbara Giorgio-Booher, ’81, teaching professor in the School of Art. The two bring together students from different majors and disciplines to produce a series of children’s books about wildlife conservation—work that has yielded 19 books created by 61 students through the years.

“The books started because had noticed that there are a lot of books for children about animals, but none talking about what they could do to help support conservation efforts,” Dr. McConnell said.

The books focus on three messages: everyone can help protect wildlife; anyone can be a scientist; and examples of the processes one needs to learn to be a scientist.

The work began as an independent study in the School of Art with Ms. Giorgio-Booher in collaboration with Dr. McConnell but evolved into an Immersive Learning project for a 300-level Art class. That year’s book was about Gulf Coast wildlife, including manatees, sea turtles, and seahorses.

Through the Conservation Tales Immersive Learning project, Ball State students take on a variety of roles— including illustrator, character designer, graphic designer, photographer, media and video specialist, science education and reading specialists and more. Pictured: The sloth team members work on illustrations (left) and spend time in person with the animal (above) for their eventual book, one of 19 produced through the project.

’04

19 BOOKS

produced by Conservation Tales with more than 2,400 copies sold

Over the years, the project has included a variety of students. In the Spring 2022 group, for example, there are students from the College of Fine Arts (Animation, Drawing, Photography, Studio Art, Visual Communication), College of Science and Humanities (Anthropology, Biology, Life Science Education, Spanish), R. Wayne Estopinal College of Architecture and Planning (Landscape Architecture), and College of Communication, Information, and Media (Journalism).

“This Immersive Learning project has helped inspire students in the School of Art with career choices and to find opportunities in their major areas of interest,” Ms. Giorgio-Booher said. Books produced by the project are available for purchase at conservationtales.com and Amazon.com. With more than 2,400 copies sold to date, one of the top audiences has been teachers.

“Teachers from all different grades have purchased the books and now use them in their classrooms. The books are ideal for introducing science ‘phenomena’ to align with Indiana’s new science standards,” Dr. McConnell said.

Improving Community Wellness

Since 2017, and for 50 weeks of each of those years, Ball State students have introduced and sustained a level of wellness to the Muncie community through an Immersive Learning Project called “Cardinal Wellness.”

Supported by Drs. Shannon Powers, associate teaching professor of Kinesiology, and JeanCharles LeBeau, assistant professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology and coordinator of Sport and Exercise Psychology graduate program, more than 300 students have had some sort of educational experience through Cardinal Wellness.

The project began to fill a need in Muncie for residents to obtain group exercise instruction for free and with guided fitness assessments. Throughout the year, the project provides more than 600 hours of free exercise programming, 200-plus nutritional food samples, and health monitoring for every participant.

“We are interested in the impact of participation in a course-based service-learning experience that

integrated opportunities for interprofessional learning on a variety of civic learning outcomes for a wide variety of health profession majors,” Dr. Powers said. “Our research with Dr. Christina Jones has been published in The Physical Educator journal. In relation to the effectiveness of program involvement on those students participating in course-based service-learning projects that worked in conjunction with the Cardinal Wellness program, a significant increase in positive civic attitudes, volunteerism, and social responsibility scores were observed.”

Through Cardinal Wellness, participants from the community have someone monitoring their blood pressure, body mass index, body adiposity index, hand grip strength, and waist-to-hip ratio. These data points are discussed and distributed to participants every three months.

In the Summer months, the program moves from its usual location on Centennial Avenue in Muncie, with Zumba sessions in a gymnasium, to Tuhey Pool, a public pool in the city, for aqua Zumba.

600+ HOURS of free exercise programming annually for local community

Below: Members of the Muncie community participate in a Zumba class during a Cardinal Wellness session in the Fall. The Immersive Learning project offers free exercise programing 50 weeks a year.

Inset: Ball State students prepare healthy food for participants, who not only get fitness classes but health monitoring and food tastings.

Computer Science Awareness

I n the Fall of 2017, Dave Largent, MS ’10, associate lecturer of Computer Science, began an Immersive Learning project aimed at infusing a better understanding and acceptance of computer science into middle schools in Muncie. Since then, the project has grown and evolved to “Computer Science for Muncie (and Surrounding) Schools (CS4MS+),” as it has expanded beyond middle schools and Muncie.

This Spring represents the ninth semester for the project, which has included 80 students over the years, including 10 who participated a second time.

The overriding goal of CS4MS+ is to increase student exposure to computer science in elementary and secondary schools locally. In Mr. Largent’s view, students of younger ages have “little idea what it means to be a computer scientist.” Changing standards in Indiana are beginning to improve that landscape, but local teachers, Mr. Largent says, had little experience in presenting computer science topics.

The Immersive Learning project has worked to combat that issue in a variety of ways: developing a computer science workshop for teachers; planning and implementing a field trip to Ball State for local students; developing curated lessons that can be incorporated into curriculum; developing documents to explain Indiana state academic standards for grades six through eight, including activities, worksheets, and other resources; developing a website to provide resources widely; and more.

“By providing well-developed computer science resources to our partners, they are better prepared to deliver computer science learning opportunities to the youth of our community,” Mr. Largent said. “We hope to specifically assist with encouraging underrepresented groups, such as racial/ethnic minorities and female students, to engage in computer science curriculum. In doing this, we aspire to promote computer science as a lifelong learning process, thus increasing the diversity within the field.”

In 2020, CS4MS+ was selected as one of the Immersive Learning Faculty Awards.

80 STUDENTS working to increase awareness of Computer Science among youth

Left: Jordan Reidy, ’19, works with Northside Middle School students in 2017 during an in-school activity led by CS4MS+ (Photo by Dave Largent). Above: Burris students work with a Sphero Robot Ball in 2021 during an in-school activity.

Photos by Jordan Kartholl, ’10

Helping Firefighters Understand Work Stressors

In a new Immersive Learning project this Spring, Dr. Katie Lawson, an associate professor of Psychological Science, will endeavor to explore with students the work environment issues within the Noblesville, Ind., Fire Department.

Community Support Through Collaboration

The College of Communication, Information, and Media (CCIM) launched the University’s first Immersive Learning Collaborative in 2019–a college-wide, multi-year partnership with the 8twelve Coalition, a community partner in Muncie.

The 8twelve Coalition was formed in 2015. It is a group of community leaders and more than 25 nonprofits and organizations focused on revitalizing a specific part of Muncie’s south side by prioritizing the sense of community, social cohesion, collective action, housing, business development and employment, education and family support, beautification, and wellness.

The Immersive Learning Collaborative adapts to 8twelve’s broad priorities to provide support and product in various ways through class projects— including awareness through storytelling in an assortment of formats, a new inclusive media outlet, creating and distributing community newsletters, organizational communication consulting, and more.

“This is powerful and important work—both for our students and the community. The collaborative empowers students to apply classroom learning

to make a difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said Kate Elliott, lecturer of Journalism and chair of the CCIM Engagement Taskforce. “Students get off campus and put faces to the issues of our world. Their work connects the community and shares stories we might not hear otherwise. The collaborative challenges me to create classes that are agile and responsive to respond to the needs of our community.”

In addition to course work, CCIM faculty, staff, and students also volunteer for community growth efforts like neighborhood cleanups, book drives, and community meals. In November, more than 50 CCIM faculty, staff, and students participated in Stop, Drop and Read at South View Elementary in Muncie—an event emphasizing and proactively supporting reading efforts by young students.

“This collaboration allows us to work together to create meaningful change and live meaningful lives, not just to complete an assignment or a course,” said CCIM dean Dr. Paaige Turner.

The 8twelve Coalition was the 2022 recipient of Ball State’s Outstanding Local Community Partner Award.

1,500 new books and literacy bookmarks provided to local schools

The project is titled “Using Research to Understand Work-Related Stressors and Positive Work-Related Experiences of Noblesville Firefighters.” Home to at least 10 participating firefighters who are also Ball State alumni, the Noblesville Fire Department (NFD) is providing a real-world environment to conduct research and apply critical thinking skills. Students are working to identify root-cause problems and solutions to the low morale and well-being experienced by firefighters since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data analysis conducted by students will result in recommendations to NFD, which will include those recommendations in its annual report. The recommendations will be used as a starting point for NFD to determine future steps to improve its firefighters’ morale.

“Historically, mental health and well-being among firefighters have been taboo, although this is slowly changing,”

Dr. Lawson said. “NFD personnel are experiencing unprecedented burnout, job dissatisfaction, low morale, anxiety and depression, and ultimately high turnover rates.

“Our goal is to give students an opportunity to apply and strengthen their research skills to better understand the work-related stressors and positive work-related experiences for those firefighters.”

Dr. Lawson’s course has 16 students enrolled. NFD battalion chief Adam Biddle, ’97, will be the primary point person for the project. 

firefighters team with students to understand environmental issues for dept.

Ball State student Eve Green (top) reads with elementary students as part of her participation in CCIM's Immersive Learning Collaborative that partners with the 8twelve Coalition in Muncie. Lauren Raven, ’22 (right), works at the Boys & Girls Club in Muncie. Neighborhood pastor Neil Kring, ’93 (left), talks with students in Kate Elliott’s Advanced Strategic Writing class about the Harm Reduction Street Outreach Team in front of Avondale United Methodist Church in Muncie.

Above: Senior Emily Harmon tries on roughly 60 pounds of gear. Students involved in the project with the Noblesville Fire Department were given the opportunity to try on gear when learning about day-to-day demands of a firefighter’s job.

Left: Noblesville Fire Department battalion chief Adam Biddle, Dr. Katie Lawson, an associate professor of Psychological Science at Ball State, and others meet at the NFD station.

Photo by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

Photos by Robbie Mehling, ’11 MA ’14

Photo by Bobby Ellis, ’13

Learn more about Immersive Learning at Ball State. Visit bsu.edu/immersivelearning

Photo by Robbie Mehling, ’11 MA ’14

STRENGTHENING NEIGHBORHOODS

By Jennifer

Building Better Neighborhoods providing support, leadership for Muncie neighborhood associations.

Without the support of the City of Muncie, Ball State University would not be where it is today. So, supporting local communities is one of the ways the University gives back.

Building Better Neighborhoods (BBN), with the help of a $200,000 grant from the Ball Brothers Foundation, was created in 2014

to partner with the Muncie Action Plan (MAP). The aptly named organization does what it promises. Supporting neighborhood associations across the city, allocating Ball State resources to help, and involving Muncie’s nonprofit sector in neighborhood development are just a few of BBN’s objectives in support of MAP.

With the assistance of Heather Williams, ’04, associate director in the Office of Community Engagement and program manager of Building Better Neighborhoods at Ball State, Muncie has increased from 11 active neighborhood associations to 28 since the establishment of BBN. And the Building Better Neighborhoods initiative is constantly working to build more.

“There are many neighborhoods just now forming a board, writing articles of incorporation and bylaws to access new funding available,” Ms. Williams said. “There’s a huge difference between the long-standing neighborhoods that already existed and the ones that are now forming, and it’s an exciting experience.”

The City of Muncie recently allocated MAP $1 million for Muncie’s neighborhoods through

financing from the American Rescue Plan (ARP), adding to the urgency of establishing neighborhood associations and having them ready. Because it is federal funding, there are strict guidelines to access the money, and the funds must be distributed by the end of 2024. Ms. Williams and BBN have been instrumental in the effort to organize neighborhood associations and strategize ways to use the funding to meet the needs of the residents.

“We’ve got several applications in the pipeline. We have to have every eligible neighborhood apply, have their application approved, and have their funding allocated by the deadline,” said Ms. Williams. “Neighborhoods normally work with a budget of maybe $1,000 to $2,000 a year to run some small events; they might do a cookout or bring chili to their cleanup (for example). Now, they have the opportunity to have access to $100,000. It’s a huge shift.”

Even before this special funding was available, there were many improvement projects in Muncie’s 48 established

The Maring-Hunt Community Garden project was expanded and greatly improved upon by Ball State’s Architecture students—who created multiple pavilions and added raised planters, a potter’s bench and sink, an outdoor kitchen, a play space for kids, and more—helping to provide the neighborhood with fresh produce and inviting community spaces.

Every community has a unique culture and needs. With the goal of identifying those individual needs, BBN initiatives have positively impacted neighborhoods by strengthening ties among neighbors, enhancing safety, and giving residents a greater sense of empowerment.

Studio 165+—an immersive design studio in Ball State’s School of Art—worked with 12 neighborhoods to help create their visual identities, improve their image, and instill a sense of pride among residents. Students researched each community to identify distinctive core features and characteristics, incorporating those unique features to create logo designs that represented each neighborhood as a community brand. Studio 165+ is led by Shantanu Suman, associate professor of Art, in collaboration with BBN. These award-winning logos are on signs and planters in each neighborhood. Students also created brochures for each community that serve as information guides and promote the areas.

Students of Kevin Klinger, associate professor of Architecture, have been working on a substructure for murals along Hoyt Avenue to beautify that entry into Muncie. The area is one of the main thoroughfares into the city from Indianapolis.

“The look and feel of that neighborhood has transformed,” said Ms. Williams. “There’s been sidewalk and curb work, a new corner market, and a coffee shop has recently opened. There is so much going on and a lot of enthusiasm and excitement in that area.”

neighborhoods. Along with other neighborhood revitalization organizations like the 8Twelve coalition, Ms. Williams assists in finding creative ways to connect Ball State faculty and students with local improvement projects. BBN’s immersive learning projects have focused on improving Muncie neighborhoods, including action plans and beautification endeavors. One of the more notable projects was in the Thomas Park/Avondale area in Muncie.

Ms. Williams attributes many of these successes to the many dedicated faculty in departments across campus, numerous non-profit partners, and the neighborhood residents that have supported the work of the 8twelve Coalition.

“You’ve got faculty members that come back year after year and will apply for more funds to help support these projects, championing the work of the neighborhoods,” she said. “These faculty members care deeply about the community, and I’m thankful to have the opportunity to work alongside them.” 

Photo copyright chrisbucher.com

Top: The Maring-Hunt Library Community Garden in Muncie has grown into a beautiful space for Thomas Park/ Avondale Residents. Above: School of Art students incorporated neighborhood characteristics into each logo design to create unique brands.

Criss, ’98

chrisbucher.com

Below: Always ready to jump in and help, Heather Williams, ’04, assists in beautifying Emerson Dog Park in the Riverside/Normal City neighborhood.

Diversifying STEM Fields

IN LSAMP program at Ball State brings opportunities to aspiring STEM students from underrepresented backgrounds.

By Landa Bagley

Ball State University continues to prioritize increasing its graduates in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. One part of the strategy is to increase the number of students from underrepresented groups earning college degrees in these fields. In keeping with this goal, Ball State earned external support as one of six campuses in this state participating in the Indiana Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation in STEM (IN LSAMP) program. Formed in 2016 with an award from the National Science Foundation (NSF), IN LSAMP aims to boost the quality and quantity of students from historically underrepresented backgrounds receiving bachelor’s degrees in STEM disciplines. The grant’s ultimate goals are to extend opportunities to those who traditionally have not had them and to diversify the workforce in these industries. The five other campuses that are part of the IN LSAMP alliance are Indiana University-Bloomington, Indiana University-Northwest, Indiana University-South Bend, Indiana University-Purdue University in Indianapolis, and Ivy Tech at Indianapolis.

As part of the national LSAMP program with the same goals, IN LSAMP promotes student success by engaging STEM students in the high impact practice of undergraduate research. Additionally, the program encourages the establishment of a mentoring relationship with faculty on campus and professional development activities for the students. Peer mentoring and tutoring are also components of the IN LSAMP program.

The IN LSAMP program at Ball State—awarded an NSF grant of $550,000—is co-directed by Dr. Anita Gnezda, teaching professor of Chemistry, and Dr. Mary Konkle, associate professor of Chemistry. Ball State’s current grant was originally awarded for five years, but an extension was granted. So, the current grant entered its sixth year in 2023. “NSF gives us funds to support students from underrepresented populations to do research,” Dr. Gnezda explained. “And we can support them in opportunities that may not have come their way for many reasons. Under the mentorship of a faculty member, our IN LSAMP scholars get to do hands-on research and present their research at different conferences. Many times, they are authors of papers based on the research that they have participated in.”

According to Dr. Gnezda, in the first five years, 55 Ball State undergraduate students—up through the 2021-2022 academic year— have been supported as Research Scholars by the NSF funds. Lindsey Herrera, one of those Ball State IN LSAMP scholars, attended the Society

of Women Engineers “WE22 Conference” in Houston with financial support from the IN LSAMP program.

“I had the chance to connect with over 14,000 women in engineering, including students and professionals, and network with hundreds of well-known companies such as SpaceX, Boeing, Roche, Boston Scientific, Ball Aerospace, and Raytheon,” Ms. Herrera said. “The networking skills that I developed as an IN LSAMP scholar prior to attending the conference helped me score interviews with Delta Airlines, Eaton, and General Electric. I am excited to have received my first job offer from Eaton as a Summer operations management intern and will be interviewing for a few more internships.”

According to Dr. Konkle, undergraduate research, professional development, conference attendance, and research presentations are among many activities aspiring STEM professionals are expected to have experienced in order to be competitive. This is true for either post-graduate studies or employment opportunities in STEM fields. The support from NSF enables the opportunities to be extended to more students. 

Ball State Earns $4.9 Million in Federal Funds for Various Research Projects

Underway at Ball State University are 13 research projects that have earned federal funding—for a total of $4.9 million. The IN LSAMP Program is one of them, with funding of $550,000 over six years, awarded by the National Science Foundation.

Among the other federally funded projects at Ball State:

A study to develop new green-chemical catalysts through enzyme engineering $366,434 grant awarded by the National Science Foundation; Primary Investigator: Dr. Jordan Froese, assistant professor of Chemistry.

A study to understand the molecular mechanisms of frontal temporal dementia (an incurable, devastating neurodegenerative disease)—$464,000 grant awarded by the National Institute of Health; Primary Investigator: Dr. Philip Smaldino, associate professor of Cell Biology.

A study about social information use and communication in aquatic embryos $488,000 grant awarded by the National Science Foundation; Primary Investigator: Dr. Jessica Ward, associate professor of Animal Behavior. Read about all 13 projects at magazine.bsu.edu

Top: (left to right) Dr. Sergiy Rosokha works in a Ball State lab along with student CJ Jean at the counter with Dr. David Bwambok supervising.

Lower left: Dr. Anita Gnezda (left) and Dr. Mary Konkle (right) co-direct the IN LSAMP program at Ball State. Lower right: Student Lauryn Snowden works in a Ball State lab.

Photos by Jordan Kartholl, ’10

PAYING IT FORWARD

By Jennifer Criss, ’98

Alumni Mentors Helping Students Find Passion and Purpose

Ellie Parkison, a Ball State University junior, had heard about Cardinals Connect—an online Ball State networking and mentoring environment—but hadn’t participated in it until it provided an opportunity to help her complete a Journalism course assignment. She had recently changed her major to Public Relations (PR) and had been tasked with finding and interviewing a working professional in the field.

Through Cardinals Connect, Ms. Parkison’s course assignment quickly turned into a mentorship with Ball State alumna Kallie Sulanke, ’07 MBA ’09, chief community partner for outreach and donor relations at the Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County.

It only took one conversation for Ms. Parkison to realize the value of this new mentorship.

“I originally planned to do just an interview for my assignment. But after only 30 minutes, we hit it off,” Ms. Parkison said. “I’d never thought about having a mentor before, but it seemed like an opportunity did not want to pass up. It also seemed like the perfect time to connect with someone in a field that interested me—especially because I’d just switched my major.”

Ms. Sulanke was looking for a mentee and a way to connect with other Ball State alumni as part of

Chic Innovate—a two-year program for building professional and personal development. Created specifically for women in the Muncie area, Chic Innovate encourages mentor relationships with Ball State students. Alumni-to-student mentoring encourages fellowship and networking with the goal of career development and the potential for creating significant, long-lasting connections. Accordingly, mentorship is a key part of the University’s strategic plan. The Alumni Association is taking a more active role in connecting Ball State alumni with students to enrich their educational experience, discover their purpose, and lead them to fulfilling careers and meaningful lives.

The mentor-mentee relationship that has blossomed between Ms. Sulanke and Ms. Parkison is just one example of that effort.

The two have now met several times to talk about Ms. Parkison’s class choices and career options for her major. Ms. Parkison had just changed her major to Public Relations when she connected with Ms. Sulanke, but she remained unsure if the new major was the right fit for her.

better suit her talents and provide her with a wide range of opportunities after graduation. However, Ms. Sulanke reassured her that it was acceptable not to be certain of her future plans while in college or even after. There are always opportunities to change careers, and students who learn early about their strengths and determine their goals will be better able to make those decisions.

“It is nice to have a sounding board in Kallie to talk to about my classes, balancing college life, and possible careers,” Ms. Parkison said.

At the suggestion of Ms. Sulanke, Ms. Parkison completed the CliftonStrengths assessment, and they discussed how her strengths aligned with job opportunities. Ms. Sulanke shared how understanding her own strengths made her a better team member and leader, professionally and personally.

And what Ms. Sulanke found was that working with a mentee was mutually beneficial.

Now equipped with the support and resources learned through the Chic Innovate program and Ms. Parkison’s willingness to learn and accept guidance, the two intend to continue her monthly mentor-mentee meetings.

“The most helpful thing I have learned from Kallie is not to limit myself when exploring my passions and what interests me,” said Ms. Parkison. “She encourages me to learn more about myself, my strengths, and what I am capable of.”

To connect with a community of 210,000 alumni, visit cardinalsconnect.com

After a particularly constructive discussion with Ms. Sulanke, the junior decided to keep her minors in Strategic Communications and Family Engagement but switch from her PR major to Communication Studies with a concentration in Interpersonal Communication.

After guidance from Ms. Sulanke, Ms. Parkison realized that major would

“I think the experience has helped me improve my listening and coaching skills. I am truly invested in being there for Ellie,” Ms. Sulanke said. “I am gaining so much insight into what students today are experiencing in college—including the vastly different experiences of those who started during the pandemic.

“I think as we continue to build our relationship, we will learn a lot from one another. I have had several mentors that helped me, and it only seems natural to pay that forward.”

In addition to linking current students with alumni who want to serve as mentors, Cardinals Connect provides graduates with numerous services that support personal and professional development. The platform provides access to alumni directories and business directories to connect with classmates and friends, network with other Ball State alumni in similar fields, and to look for or post job opportunities. 

Ellie Parkison

Kallie Sulanke, ’07 MBA ’09

Don't miss our next episode of Ball State+ on May 17. Alumni will discuss the importance of mentoring. Visit bsu.edu/alumni for more.

Photos by Bobby Ellis, ’13

How You Engage With Us Matters

It’s my hope that Ball State alumni (210,000 strong), friends and fans are proud to talk about their ties to and affection for the University. Cardinal to Cardinal, we’re better together. And no matter the last time you were on campus, you have the ability to inspire a current student, connect with fellow alumni, partake in engagement events, and support the University fund that makes your heart happy.

With goals of deeper engagement and increased philanthropic support, and a renewed focus on the partnership between the Foundation, the University, and the Alumni Association, opportunity exists to engage you in ways that are meaningful to you and align with the University’s strategic priorities.

Through the Next Level Alumni Engagement Plan, the Ball State University Alumni Association (BSUAA) is a committed, strategic partner with the University to enhance offerings to our growing network of alumni and to leverage engagement to advance the University. How you engage with us matters. Now more than ever, there are countless options. You are a key partner to Ball State’s success as an institution.

In an alumni survey, we learned that you want us to help navigate career paths, and we’re here for you. The Cardinals Connect platform highlights employment opportunities, includes Career Center resources, and provides you with an opportunity to connect with fellow alumni and Ball State students. Who better than to speak with a current Cardinal than someone like you who may have navigated the same waters during your time on campus? Being a mentor to a current student for a few weeks, several months or for life will be instrumental in their Ball State experience and their journey after graduation. I would hope it’s a light in your life as well. Cardinals Connect also provides the opportunity to form mentoring relationships with other alumni. Even as we mentor others, we continue to need mentors for our own personal and professional growth.

As the new president of the Alumni Association, and a Ball State alumna, I have great passion for the University’s success and how we tell our stories of why we’re proud to be graduates, friends and fans. From attending an in person or digital event, to mentoring a student or alum following in your footsteps, to giving a “chirp chirp” to a fellow Cardinal, to making a gift of any size faithfully ever year, we are united in our love for Ball State.

Thank you for the role you will play in the Next Level Alumni Engagement Plan. Big or small, the Alumni Association and the Foundation look forward to sharing our collective progress with you. Thank you for the role you play in our call to Beneficence.

THE EVOLUTION OF SERVICE

Kelsey Kelly grew up with stories of her father, Don Dumoulin, ’82, inputting alumni address changes for three hours a day while working a student job at the Alumni office. She heard about Sigma Chi Fraternity formals and the “good ol‘ days” during Homecoming tailgates.

“I love seeing my dad involved with Ball State because I know how much the University means to him,” said Kelly, assistant vice president for development for the Ball State Foundation. “His engagement inspires me and others to stay involved in our alma mater at some level. Everyone can give back in some way; you just have to find the right space.”

Mr. Dumoulin found that space at Ball State. The CEO and owner of Precise Tooling Solutions and Next Chapter LLC has served the University in some capacity every year since he started at Ball State in 1978.

Upon graduating from the University, Mr. Dumoulin would serve the Ball State University Alumni Council for 15 years. That dedication and expertise earned him a 1999 Benny Award, the University’s top award for service to Ball State or the Alumni Association.

“This is where I and so many of the 210,000 Ball State graduates got our start, and we all owe a bit of gratitude to the University,” said Mr. Dumoulin, who also served the Miller College of Business Advisory Board. “I understand it’s not always the easiest thing to do, but there are many ways to get involved and give back. And once you see the impact you make on students’ lives, you can’t stop. It’s so rewarding.”

Mr. Dumoulin joined the Ball State Foundation Board of Directors in 2014, and he continues to advocate for student involvement on campus. That engagement, he said, creates a pipeline for alumni involvement. The numbers support his claim: members of the Foundation board were involved in a total of 51 student organizations, and the Alumni Council members were involved in 100.

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alumni, family, and friends may send address updates by email at bsuupdate@bsu.edu

Jean Kramer Crosby, ’96 President of Ball State Foundation and Alumni Association, Vice President for University Advancement

“Some of the most active alumni volunteers began their involvement as students, so it is important for the University to continue to find ways for students to get involved and understand all that goes into their college experience,” Mr. Dumoulin said.

Mr. Dumoulin is also proud Kelsey works for his alma mater and that his son, Ryan Dumoulin, ’08, was one of the first fourthgeneration Cardinals and also a Sigma Chi. Don Dumoulin’s wife, Lynda (Brown) Dumoulin, ’82, graduated from Ball State. Her mother, Joyce Brown, ’58, graduated from Ball State Teachers College, and her grandmother, Mildred (Peck) Lee, graduated from the Eastern Indiana Normal School in the late 1920s. — Kate H. Elliott

One graduate’s 45-year engagement demonstrates the various ways to connect throughout one’s life.

Resolve to make 2023 the year you fly forward

An ever-changing world requires an adaptable set of skills to be successful. Competition is fierce, but the Cardinal spirit is distinct because Cardinals know how to adapt.

Lifetime Learning by Ball State offers non-credit courses and credentials in flexible formats for adult learners who are motivated for more.

Our seamless experience is on personal terms—your schedule, your lifestyle, your goals.

So, you can upskill in place to position yourself for the corner office, land a more flexible schedule, or write your own ticket to start something new.

Together, We Fly Further bsu.edu/lifetimelearning

1960s

Norman Ross, ’62, Goshen, Ind., authored the bestselling book “Saints or Quacks” on the chiropractic profession. He was nearing the completion of his second book, “Chasing Squirrels,” about the notable Wilk vs. AMA trials of 1987, when he passed away in 2022.

Roy A. Weaver, ’68 MAE ’71, Muncie, co-authored “Running Against the Grain: The Story of Philadelphia Eagle and Movie Star Timmy Brown.”

Dr. Weaver retired in 2020 as interim dean of Teachers College at Ball State. In 2021, he received the Teachers College Career Achievement Award and the Ball State University Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

1970s

Ralph Stuckman, EDD ’70, Celina, Ohio, designed artworks to be displayed in the Paradigm Gallery within the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. His works include resins and alcohol inks with unusual shapes. Mr. Stuckman was an educator working in a public school as superintendent and professor at Wright State University-Lake Campus. Art has been a passion for many years, and he recently stepped down as chairman of the Lake Area Arts Group.

Raymond Roberson, MA ’73, Houston, published “Presidential Maxims: Excellence in Leadership (Volume 1).” The work contains information about the first 19 Presidents of the United States and their life experiences. The book aims to shed light on the

division of the United States and the contributions of presidential leadership in hopes of bringing about change in communities and the country.

Shiela R. Rawlins Snider, ’74 BAR ’74, Franklin, Ind., is the first woman to graduate from Ball State University’s School of Architecture and the first Indiana woman to be elevated to Fellow by the American Institute of Architects (AIA). She continues her streak of many firsts by being the first woman to be honored with the Gold Medal Award for the AIA.

Jerry Cook, ’77, and Linda Cook, ’78, The Villages, Fla., accidentally found a nationwide audience with their YouTube channel, “The Villages Florida Newcomers”—which they created to keep their three military sons informed of their retirement adventures. They now have over 50,000 subscribers and 11 million views of their videos chronicling their day trips, biking, kayaking, fishing, crafts, and more. The Cooks taught in public schools in Indiana for over 30 years before their retirement.

Gary Vance, ’77 BAR ’77, Carmel, Ind., received an American Institute of Architects (AIA) Indiana Design Award for his children’s book series “Kid Architect.” This series is also the subject of a Ball State University Immersive Learning project involving students in the Emerging Media Design and Development graduate program.

Ron Fisher, ’79 BAR ’79, Indianapolis, received the Edward D. Pierre Award for his impact over his career, including strategic planning, master planning, engineering, and architectural projects at Indianapolis Public Schools. The award is named for architect Edward D. Pierre, a crusader for the welfare of children, decent housing for all, and progressive urban planning. Mr. Fisher is principal and chief operations officer at Schmidt Associates. He was on the design team for the NCAA Headquarters and Hall of Champions and worked on five different residence hall projects at Ball State.

1980s

Scott Poland, ’81, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., received the American Psychological Association Division 16 School Psychology Career Award. He is the author of six books and numerous chapters on school crises and suicide prevention. Currently, he is a professor and director of the Suicide and Violence Prevention Office at Nova Southeastern University.

Shawn Wright-Browner, ’86, Indianapolis, was honored with the Tom Paul Outstanding Director of the Year Award during the Indiana Association of Career and Technical Education Districts (IACTED) State Conference. The award honors exemplary career and technical education (CTE) administrators for their knowledge, leadership, and commitment to the CTE field. Ms. Wright-Browner is the director of the J. Everett Light Career Center in Indianapolis.

Lori Goss-Reaves, ’88, Indianapolis, a licensed clinical social worker and professor at Indiana Wesleyan University, published “Kiss Lori for Me: A Vietnam Corpsman’s Sacrifice, His Widow’s Undying Love, and Their Daughter’s Quest to Find the Truth.” The best-selling book about loss and grief gathers the oral histories of four men who served with Dr. Goss-Reaves’ father, who was killed in Vietnam.

1990s

Bryan Keller, ’90, Defiance, Ohio, of Keller Logistics Group, was announced as a regional winner of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award. A panel of independent judges selected Mr. Keller on entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth, and impact of their work.

Robert A. DiDonato, ’93, Hartland, Wis., a private wealth advisor with Ameriprise Financial in Brookfield, Wis., was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” published by Forbes magazine. The list

recognizes financial advisors who have demonstrated high ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business.

Jeffrey A. Echols, ’93 BAR ‘93, Indianapolis, is the host of “Context & Clarity,” a daily Facebook LIVE conversation that supports a community of small firm architects. Over the last two years, it has grown to include a daily Clubhouse room, a podcast, and a weekly simulcast that streams out to Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitch, Twitter, and YouTube, and has featured guests such as author and social commentator Roxane Gay and Robert Ivy, CEO of the American Institute of Architects. Mr. Echols also teaches at CAP: Indy.

James A. “Andy” Pierce, ’93, Chicago, was named coordinator of underwriting sales for WDCB 90.9 FM Radio, Chicago’s home for jazz and blues. He guides the station’s initiatives to help local arts organizations and the business community access public radio to engage larger audiences.

Heidi B. Spahn, ’94, Pittsboro, Ind., was selected to receive the Honorary American FFA Degree, the Future Farmers of America’s highest honor. This award is given to individuals that advance the agricultural education of youths. Ms. Spahn received the award along with a plaque and a medal during the annual FFA Convention and Expo.

Driving Student Philanthropy Awareness

Philanthropy Education Council (PEC) members pose for a photo during One Ball State Day in April of 2022. Back row: Joshua Brandon, ’22; Blake Reynolds, senior; Sunnie Berning, senior; middle row: Aléthea Kessler, senior; Emma Schneider, senior; Justyce Solomon, senior; front row: Madisen Zent, senior; Madison Surface, senior; Riley Sigler, ’22.

Freshman Mac Vore happened upon the Ball State Foundation’s Instagram account as a senior in high school. It was on “One Ball State Day”—the University’s annual 24-hour online fundraising event .

Ms. Vore was drawn into the high-energy posts and challenges like “gifts from all 50 states will unlock a $5,000 gift from the Alumni Council.” She saw posts of dogs, families, and cars outfitted in Cardinal gear, tagged with “#OneBallState!” She saw videos of the campus abuzz with activity stations, treasure hunts, trivia games, and themed photo booths.

“I followed along all day and knew wanted to be part of it,” said the Theatre Education major from Pennville, Ind.

Ms. Vore learned that students—through the Philanthropy Education Council (PEC)—play a major role in One Ball State Day. “I applied to be on the PEC the first day applications opened my freshman year,” she said. PEC is the Foundation’s official student group in charge of student and campus engagement and philanthropy for One Ball State Day.

“Our mission is to educate our peers about philanthropy at the University and answer the

call to Beneficence,” Ms. Vore said. “I have learned so much about organizing and planning as well as networking and advocacy. I am excited to be part of these important events for the next four years.”

The Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) awarded the PEC with Circle of Excellence and Best of CASE V awards for student engagement programs in 2022. Brittney Grim, ’13 MA ’18, who advises the council, said the team of about 10 members encouraged more than 500 gifts from students during the 2022 One Ball State Day.

“This is my third academic year with PEC. It has been exciting to watch students become passionate about philanthropic engagement and take that with them into their careers,” said Ms. Grim, director of student and young alumni philanthropy. — Kate H. Elliott

Learn more about the Philanthropy Education Council, and keep up with the Foundation’s latest news and events, by following @bsufoundation on Instagram.

Linda,’78, and Jerry, ’77, Cook

Shawn Wright-Browner, ’86 Lori Goss-Reaves, ’88 Gary Vance, ’77 BAR ’77

Heidi B. Spahn, ’94

Photo by Samantha Blankenship, ’15

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David J. Ulbrich, MA ’96, Montpelier, Vt., was published in an anthology of papers from a history conference held in Singapore in 2019 called “From Far East to Asia Pacific: Great Powers and Grand Strategy, 1900-1954.” Mr. Ulbrich is a professor of American history at Norwich University.

In addition to being a therapist in Los Angeles specializing in anxiety, depression, selfesteem, and mindfulness, Kavita K. Ajmere, MA ’96 MA ’00, Studio City, Calif., is a co-host of the podcast “Dear Katie: Survivor Stories,” in which host, Katie Koestner and her guests discuss sexual violence and the journey from trauma to healing.

Eric B. Yazel MA ’99, Borden, Ind., was named chief medical director for Indiana Emergency Medical Services (EMS) by Indiana Department of Homeland Security executive director Steve Cox. Dr. Yazel is also an emergency room doctor, chief medical officer at LifeSpring Health Systems University, and a member of the addiction resources and education group Clark County Cares.

2000s

Marta Stephens, ’01, Muncie, a longtime member of the Muncie Arts Guild (MAG), assisted in creating and publishing “Through Artists’ Eyes: Celebrating 70 Years with the Muncie Artists Guild.” The book highlights MAG members—many of whom are Ball State alums or retired faculty/staff—their artwork, and the group’s involvement in the Community. The group created and donated a mural of Beneficence on display in the Atrium of the Art and Journalism building, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the University.

Jason E. Guinn, ’02, Frisco, Texas, published a new novel, “The Wretched,” the first of a series titled “Lucifer Chronicles,” which is described as a dark interpretation of the mythology of Heaven and Hell.

Brian Brueggeman, ’03, Fort Wayne, Ind., was promoted to partner in audit assurance services at Crowe LLP, one of the largest accounting, consulting, and technology firms in the U.S. He has been with the firm for over 19 years and is based out of the Fort Wayne office.

Drew Morden ’12, Kingsburg, Calif., is the head brewmaster at AL. Ringling Brewing Co. Making use of his biochemistry degree, Mr. Morden is exceptionally skilled in developing enzymes. Inspired by his mother, who has Celiac disease, Mr. Morden adds a glutenremoving enzyme to every beer he develops.

Kionna L. Walker, ’06, Indianapolis, associate architect at Meticulous Design + Architecture and founder of Next Great Architects, a teaching studio that introduces architecture to children as early as kindergarten, received the Walter S. Blackburn Award from the American Institute of Architects Indiana (AIA). The Walker S. Blackburn Award, named in memory of another 2006 Ball State graduate, honors architects devoted to giving back to their communities.

Hoosier Films co-founder and CEO Meredith McGriff ’07 BFA ’07, Bloomington, Ind., piloted a new program bringing Indiana films to theaters across the state. Each month, Hoosier Films will provide a feature film or collection of short films to be screened at participating venues. So far, six Indiana theaters have signed up to participate in this monthly series, including Kan-Kan Cinema & Brasserie in Indianapolis; Fort Wayne Cinema Center in Fort Wayne; Strand Theatre in Shelbyville; WNIN Old National Public Theatre in Evansville; Historic Tivoli Theatre in Spencer; and Goshen Theater in Goshen.

Bryant Haines, ’09, Harrisonburg, Va., was promoted to defensive coordinator/ linebackers coach for the James Madison University football program. At Ball State, Mr. Haines was an All-Mid-American Conference (MAC) performer at linebacker and was on the watch list for the Dick Butkus Award in 2008, presented yearly to the nation’s most outstanding linebacker.

2010s

Andrew P. Quinn, ’10, Anderson, Ind., and Joseph Vella, MA ’12, Indianapolis, founded Bayonet Media and are celebrating its 10th year. The successful visual storytelling and content creation firm has worked with national and regional clients such as Maker’s Mark, Speedway, Food Network, First National Bank, and many others.

Kalyn A. Long, ’11, Zionsville, Ind., joined Borshoff, an award-winning creative and PR agency, as account director. Ms. Long serves as the PR account lead for client accounts, creates strategic communications plans, and provides senior PR and crisis communications counsel.

Ashley Thornberry, ’13 MAR ’15, Indianapolis, was awarded the Tony Costello Young Architect Award from the American Institute of Architects Indiana (AIA). This award, named after the Irving Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Architecture at Ball State, was created to recognize proficiency and exceptional accomplishments in the profession by a licensed architect who has been a member in good standing of AIA Indiana for a minimum of three years and is 40 years or younger. Ms. Thornbury is a project architect at StudioAxis.

Annaelise “Annie” M. Vest MA ’13, Owasso, Okla., was appointed by the firm Freese and Nichols to lead its hazard mitigation and disaster recovery planning services and to support clients in identifying and pursuing mitigation funding solutions through her in-depth knowledge of FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Building Resilient Infrastructure, Communities, and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs.

Christian Okitondo, MA ’17, Athens, Ga., published a motivational memoir, “The Champion in You,” relating his life in the Congo, his journey to Ball State, to where he is today, in the Ph.D. program in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the University of Georgia.

The National Hemophilia Foundation has welcomed two Ball State graduates to its staff—Riley Breen, ’18, Abington, Md., and Chloe Fellwock, ’22, Indianapolis. As a development specialist, Ms. Breen focuses on strategy and logistics for major nationwide fundraising events. Ms. Fellwock works as a communications assistant, assisting the patient advocacy organization in raising awareness for inheritable blood and bleeding disorders. Both have sought careers in the nonprofit space thanks to a passion for service, community, and giving back to others.

2020s

Sophie J. Sergi, ’22, Fishers, Ind., joined The Sergi Group at RE/MAX At the Crossing in Indianapolis. The Sergi Group has over 30 years of residential real estate experience.

Brian Brueggeman, ’03

Kalyn A. Long, ’11

Kionna L. Walker, ’06

Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky alumni enjoying an evening of Cocktails with Cardinals at The Porch at Washington Park in downtown Cincinnati.

Once a Cardinal, Always a Cardinal

F or so many graduates, Ball State played such a memorable role in their lives that they want to maintain and strengthen the valuable connections they made at the University.

Joining a local alumni chapter is a great way to stay connected to Ball State and to get updates on the University’s progress, future goals, and activities. Strong alumni groups can be found in Muncie, Indianapolis, Northeast Indiana, Michiana, Chicago, and Cincinnati.

“Being part of a team that provides opportunities for alumni to become more engaged with Ball State and other local alumni has been rewarding,” said Beth Snyder, ’78, one of the organizers of the Cincinnati Alumni Planning Team. “There are alumni who are business owners and community leaders making an impact in so many ways. Educators, business leaders, alumni working in communications and media, architects, and more—fun and interesting people I would have never met without the local alumni chapter.”

Alumni organization leadership teams from all over the state and regionally meet several times a year to brainstorm ideas for engaging local alumni, divide the work on planning, and

execute events such as annual networking forums, Cocktails with Cardinals, and sports and concert event meetups. Time is also spent catching up with one another.

Several alumni groups also coordinate philanthropic projects and provide scholarships for students in their area attending or planning to attend the University. There are also virtual events to connect those who may not have a local alumni organization near them.

The Chicago Chapter recently held a virtual networking forum where they invited seniors planning to move there for work.

“We want recent graduates to know that there is a huge alumni community to welcome them and keep them connected—wherever they may land,” said Raymond Garcia, ’16, president of the Chicago Chapter. — Jennifer Criss, ’98

Beautiful New Gateway to Campus

Last Summer, the University dedicated the Alderdice Gates, a new south entrance to Ball State, which opens walking and biking paths to the East Mall on campus. It is located on West Ashland Avenue between the McKinley Parking Garage and the Foundational Sciences Building.

Ball State alumni living in each alumni group area:

Chicago: 11,165

Cincinnati: 3,712

Fort Wayne: 7,486

Indianapolis: 52,363

Michiana: 7,917

Those interested in joining an alumni chapter, or receiving more information, can contact bsualumni@bsu.edu.

The gates are named in honor of Patrick Alderdice, ’92 (right), his wife Jennifer, and their daughter, Emily, for generously funding the water feature incorporated into the gates. Mr. Alderdice, the chair-elect of the Ball State University Foundation Board of Directors, graduated with a degree in Political Science and is now the CEO at Pennington & Company, a full-service fundraising, consulting, and alumni relations firm based in Lawrence, Kan.

Each year, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) awards and honors recognize best practices and exemplary projects in architecture. The Ball State graduates at right received accolades for their contributions to these award-winning projects.

Julie Zent , ’78, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Tom Cloud, ’79, Winamac, Ind.

Chuck Bauer, ’84, Morton, Ill.

Dave Kroll, MS ’84, Danville, Ind.

Tom Gallagher, BAR ’92, Muncie

Tom Kemp, ’93 MA ’00, Muncie

Jeff Milliken, ’94 BAR ’94, Fishers, Ind.

Lucas A. Brown, ’99 BAR ’99 MAR ’02, Bloomington, Ind.

Dustin Eggink, ’99 BAR ’99, Indianapolis

Ben Ross, ’06 MAR ’08, Indianapolis

Emily DeSmit , ’07 BAR ’07 MAR ’14, Indianapolis

Anne Schneider, ’11 BAR ’11, Indianapolis

William Zyck, ’13, Leawood, Kan.

Left: Summer gathering of the Indianapolis alumni chapter at Symphony on the Prairie in Fishers, Ind. Below: Greater

Photos by Bobby Ellis, ’13