MAGAZINE CONTRIBUTORS Editorial content, writing and production: Lisa Sanders, Director of Media Relations Krysti Connelly, Executive Director for University Communications and Marketing Sherry Hall, Graphic Designer
Photography/Writing: Scott Billhartz ’85 Dr. Ann Collins Scott Cummings Stephanie (Coartney) Dulaney ’10 Michael Embrich Michele Erschen Alexandria Hoskins Magdalena Knapp ’20 Lori Kuper ’20 Holly (Weathers) Sallee ’13, MBA ’18 Matt Seniour Whitney (Pankey) Strang ’05 Kendra Taylor, MSN ’06 PJ Thompson, M.A.Ed. ’17, Ed.D.
Published twice a year, The Magazine for McKendree connects alumni and friends to the McKendree University community.
Debate National Champions!
Please send address changes to: McKendree University Office of Development, Alumni and Parent Relations 701 College Road Lebanon, IL 62254 Keep in touch! Call 1-800-BEARCAT, ext. 6826, or send e-mail updates to alumni@mckendree.edu.
Homecoming, Reunion and Alumni Award Highlights
FA L L 2 0 2 0
FEATURES
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Dr. Dennis 26 Years Debate National Champions COVID-19
IN THIS ISSUE
COVID-19
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Dr. Dennis 26 Years of Leadership
President’s News Annual Fund Our McKendree Homecoming & Alumni Reunion Bearcats Unleashed Alumni Notes
PRESIDENT’SN e w s
MEET THE NEW UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, DANIEL C. DOBBINS ’81
accountant and pursued his CPA and MBA, graduating with a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 1985. Inspired by gratitude, the couple became stewards of McKendree as active young alumni volunteers and donors. In 1987, Dan was elected president of the Alumni Association Board and, by virtue of that position, a member of the Board of Trustees. In 1999, the Alumni Association rewarded him with its most prestigious honor, the Peter Akers Award. In 32 years as a trustee, he chaired the Resource Development and Financial Affairs Committees, and served as treasurer (1998-2005), vice chair (2005-2007), and board chair (2007-2015). The University conferred on him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree at the 2015 Commencement ceremony to recognize his years of service and leadership as the board chair.
On Jan. 1, Daniel C. Dobbins ’81 became the 33rd president of McKendree University, following his election by the Board of Trustees on Nov. 2, 2019. He succeeds Dr. James M. Dennis, who has retired after 26 years of service. President Dobbins’ business and leadership experience, supported by decades of service and commitment to his alma mater, guide him in his new role. He is the former president of Fiber Bond Corporation, a commercial air filtration products manufacturing company in Michigan City, Ind. He had hardly settled into his new office on campus when, in mid-March, the coronavirus threat prompted quick action to protect the health and safety of students, faculty and staff. President Dobbins teleconferenced daily with senior administrators to make key, and often difficult, decisions affecting all aspects of University operations. He hosted late Friday afternoon social gatherings via Zoom to keep the campus community connected as “One McKendree.” President Dobbins’ McKendree story is one of loyalty, leadership and love, a journey from the classroom to the boardroom. The 6' 8" former student from the west-central farming community of Pittsfield, Ill., studied business administration, played forward and center for the Bearcats basketball team, and met his college sweetheart, Michaelene “Mickey” (Macaluso) Dobbins, ’81. After they married in 1981, Mickey worked in McKendree’s Office of Admission, while the future president became an 2
www.mckendree.edu
“As I begin this new chapter in my relationship with the University, I am deeply humbled and excited by the opportunity to continue that service as president…” He views the opportunity to lead McKendree forward as a continued call to service. “I am deeply committed to the mission of this great University and it has been a privilege for me to work on behalf of its students and all of the members of the McKendree community as a volunteer,” he said. “As I begin this new chapter in my relationship with the University, I am deeply humbled and excited by the opportunity to continue that service as president and I am grateful for the strong and enduring leadership of Jim Dennis, who has left a lasting legacy on which we have the opportunity to build.” The Board of Trustees contracted Storbeck Pimentel & Associates of Whittier, Calif., to assist the Presidential Search Advisory Committee with its search for Dr. Dennis’ successor. “Dan Dobbins’ business acumen, together with his long volunteer service and knowledge of the University make him an ideal candidate to lead McKendree at this time. We were fortunate that early in our process we found an outstanding person with unparalleled passion for the University in our midst,” said Board Chairman Dan Lett ’91.
GivingUp d a t e
Farewell to Dr. Dennis Inspires Giving, Participation Wearing socks bearing his likeness,
and even an ice cream cart, have made McKendree into the special place that it is today! During his last year of presidency, McKendree alumni,
Dr. James M. Dennis and a large group of
staff, faculty, students, parents, friends and community
McKendreans celebrated the University’s
members were welcomed to make a Celebration Gift
192nd anniversary on Founders Day, Feb.
of $26 or more to support the University in honor of Dr.
20. The event began with a group photo of those wearing the socks, which were given to those who made a Celebration Gift to honor
Dennis and his accomplishments. As a thank you, donors received a pair of socks with the beloved president’s face pictured on them. These socks quickly became a staple at every alumni event, Purple Friday, athletic contest, Hett show, campus offices and alumni households.
Dr. Dennis’ 26 years as president. A historic moment in time for McKendree University inspired increased giving and participation, when, in the fall of 2019, Dr. James M. Dennis entered into his 26th and final year as its longest-serving president. McKendree made huge strides under his leadership. The impressive growth
Special events throughout the year also recognized
in academic offerings and enrollment; the transition from
Dr. Dennis and his accomplishments. They included
College to University; the move from the NAIA to the
Homecoming Weekend, William McKendree Society
NCAA Division II in athletics; the additions of the Piper
events, #GivingTuesday, and Founders Day. Increased
Academic Center, the Hett, two new residence halls,
attendance at these and regular campus events was
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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GivingUp d a t e evident as community members wanted to congratulate Dr. Dennis and deliver their well wishes in person.
alumnus from each graduating class during Dr. Dennis’ tenure is featured, saying their thanks to him and having some fun with the crazy socks. The videos are posted and
Most impressively, McKendree alumni from around the
can be viewed on McKendree’s YouTube channel at
world re-engaged with the University. Many who
youtube.com/McKendreeUniversity.
graduated during Dr. Dennis’ tenure have maintained friendships with him or hold fond memories of him close
Throughout the year, alumni, staff, faculty, parents, friends
to their hearts. For the first time in four years, alumni giving
and community members posted photos of themselves
and engagement showed an increase. Local alumni also
wearing their Dr. Dennis socks on social media using the
participated in videos promoting the University’s 26-hour
hashtag #BestFootForward or #KnockOurSocksOff. Most
online day of giving, #GivingTuesday, in honor of Dr.
posts, e-mail messages, phone calls or texts included a
Dennis and to support the future of the institution. In the
story or memory of Dr. Dennis. Often funny and sometimes
#GivingTuesday video highlighted on Dec. 3, 2019, an
poignant, these recollections recognized his consistent,
Friend of the University Award Honors Dr. Dennis
an incredible run in any industry but particularly in higher education.” “Through his efforts and leadership, Jim Dennis has forever changed the McKendree we know today, and the future that has yet to become,” he continued. “Perhaps one of his most enduring legacies is his friendship shown to our University and to the community of people who are at the heart of all we do here: our faculty and staff, alumni and donors, and most of all, our students. Their affection for him and appreciation of his leadership, and the transformational impact he has had on their lives, is remarkable.” Dr. Dennis retired in June as the University’s 32nd president. Arriving from southern California in 1994, he went on to lead McKendree to dramatic, unprecedented growth in academic strength, degree programs,
McKendree University honored its longest-serving
enrollment, facilities, and extracurricular activities. The
president, Dr. James Dennis, with its Friend of the
former “College” became a “University” in 2007 to reflect
University Award on Founders Day, Feb. 20. Held at the
more accurately its broader educational opportunities.
Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, the event celebrating
In each of the last three decades, McKendree earned
the university’s 192nd year also included remarks by
reaccreditation from the Higher Learning Commission,
special guests from the United Methodist Church.
and national recognition from U.S. News and The Chronicle of Higher Education.
Since 2002 the Friend of the University Award has recognized non-alumni who have consistently given
Under Dr. Dennis’ leadership, successful fundraising
exemplary service and maintained a positive influence
campaigns enabled construction of the Piper Academic
on the image and direction of the University.
Center, Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, athletic facilities and residence halls, and the renovation of historic buildings.
4
“In every way, Jim Dennis has been a friend to McKendree
He championed initiatives to encourage greater diversity
University,” said his successor, President Daniel Dobbins
and understanding. Extracurricular activities like NCAA
’81. “Certainly, his professional service has been
athletics, marching band, debate and cyber defense teams
remarkable. His tenure here has spanned 26 years—
have contributed to a more vibrant campus community.
www.mckendree.edu
GivingUp d a t e personable support of students over the years, showing his true character and what he has meant to McKendreans. During this time of recognition and farewell to an iconic
University Wins CASE Circle of Excellence Award for "26" Campaign
president, new and increased support of McKendree has
The University was recognized with a 2020 CASE
helped to set up the next generation of Bearcats to take
Circle of Excellence Silver Award in the category
giant leaps! Thank you to all who participated and gave
of Fundraising and Annual Giving. The Institutional
back in any way!
Advancement Division’s unique efforts to engage alumni over several decades around a common
e c n e l l e Exc
If you would still like to honor the former president
appeal was recognized. The attention-grabbing
by making a gift, please contact Holly Sallee, Director
materials focused on celebrating the 26-year
of Annual Giving and Advancement Systems at
leadership of Dr. James Dennis with videos, electronic
annual_fund@mckendree.edu or (618) 537-6824.
graphics, print appeals and customized socks.
Limited quantities of the Dr. Dennis socks may remain.
Anthony Francis (seated to the left of Dr Dennis), associate director of athletics for compliance, and a group of student-athletes presented Dr. Dennis with a quilt representing the Bearcat athletic programs.
More than a dozen special guests from the United Methodist Church celebrated Dr. Dennis’ tenure as president of the oldest university in the nation with continuous ties to the United Methodist Church.
In her Founders Day address Rev. Dr. Tamara Gieselman, executive director of colleges schools and universities of the Greater Board of Higher Education Ministry in Nashville, Tenn., called Dr. Dennis “one of McKendree University’s remarkable outcomes” and a “prototypical college university president.” Additional presentations on behalf of the United Methodist Church were made by Rev. Janice Griffith of the Illinois Great Rivers Council (IGRC) Bishop’s Office; and Amy Shreve of the IGRC Board of Higher Education Ministry. McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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McK F e a t u r e
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www.mckendree.edu
McK F e a t u r e
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Dr. James M. Dennis Made His Mark
As the longest-serving President in McKendree history,
should have been. In his inaugural address to the campus
Dr. James M. Dennis has remained one of the University’s
in 1995, he outlined a series of goals that would guide him
greatest visionaries for 26 years. His bold, enthusiastic
over the next two decades as he sought to transform
leadership broadened the scope of McKendree, from a
McKendree into one of the most highly-esteemed, well-
small college providing a liberal arts education for students
known universities in the region.
in rural Illinois, to a powerful University that has made its mark not only throughout the region but also the world.
Strengthening the campus’s reputation as a top liberal arts
Under his guidance, student enrollment boomed;
school was key to garnering a rising number of the best
academic, co-curricular and athletic opportunities
and brightest students. Dr. Dennis laid the groundwork
expanded; and the campus grew and began to flourish.
through a host of new academic offerings and an elevated
As he enters retirement, Dr. Dennis looks back on his
scholarly learning environment. He oversaw the creation
accomplishments and remembers what brought him here
of graduate degree programs and pioneered new online
in 1994. It was not about what he could achieve on his own;
degree opportunities as advances in technology began to
it was what he knew McKendree could become.
alter methods of teaching and learning. In 2007, he initiated the name change from “College” to “University” to reflect
A Los Angeles native, Dr. Dennis concluded a 27-year
more accurately all that the institution offered.
career at the University of Southern California when he
Emphasizing high-quality academics, the University nearly
made the move to small-town Lebanon, Ill., to become
tripled its number of faculty and staff, and now offers 59
McKendree’s 32nd president. He sought to serve others on
undergraduate majors, 45 minors and 11 graduate degrees.
a broader scale and soon found that McKendree was that
Doctoral programs in education and nursing, the
special place where he could put his plans and abilities to
McKendree Worldwide online program and a campus
use. “I knew I wanted to find an institution I could help, that
in Radcliff, Ky., continue to attract students from diverse
I thought would match my skills with the needs of the
backgrounds, work experiences and locations throughout
institution, and attempt to make a real difference,” he said.
the world.
“I accepted the kind invitation to come here in 1994 and to take on the challenges the institution was facing, including
Outside the classroom, Dr. Dennis led the creation of
financial, enrollment, reputation and the like: a variety of
the McCammon Distinguished Speaker Series, bringing
challenges I thought in some small way I might be able to
renowned scholars, artists and public figures to campus.
help.”
Over the years, these guests have included poet Maya Angelou, author Elie Wiesel, zookeeper Jack Hanna,
U
Dr. Dennis spent much of the first few years working to
environmental attorney Robert Kennedy Jr., former South
show others the McKendree he saw—a college filled with
African President F.W. deKlerk, animal science professor
excellent students, but whose presence and reputation in
and autism spokesperson Temple Grandin, and journalist
the world of higher education wasn’t as well-known as it
Carl Bernstein. McKendree achieved recognition in U.S.
N
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T
Y
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McK F e a t u r e and World Report’s “Best Colleges and Universities,” The
“We assumed that not only did students want to get good
Chronicle of Higher Education’s “Great Colleges to Work
grades when they came to McKendree, but many would
For” and “America’s 100 Best College Buys.” The word was
also want to continue the programs they participated in
out—little-known McKendree was proving to be a magnet
out of the classroom,” he said. “We encouraged more
for students and professors interested in becoming part of
fraternities and sororities, we encouraged clubs. We
a thriving intellectual community.
certainly built upon the wonderful tradition that was already here in terms of public service. We greatly
As the University’s reputation grew, so did its number of
expanded international study opportunities.”
academically talented students. New McKendreans began to arrive from homes much farther away, from Alaska and
In his second year on campus, Dr. Dennis reintroduced
New York, from Nepal and Italy. A staggering 17,000
Bearcat football for the first time since the 1930s. The team
McKendree students have graduated during Dr. Dennis’
rose to prominence, competing in the National Association
presidency—a number that encompasses more than 50
of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) championship semifinals
percent of all McKendree graduates since the institution’s
in 2002. By 2013, McKendree was ready to move from
founding in 1828. For many, it was more than the range of
NAIA to NCAA-DII status. Today, the University fields 34
academic programs and unique learning environment that
athletic teams, two of which, bowling and bass fishing,
drew them to campus. It was Dr. Dennis’ emphasis on
made school history with recent national championship
improving the quality of student life and helping students
wins.
see themselves as part of a global community. “There is always someone who will note, ‘Well, he really
8
To this effort, he focused on developing a rapid growth
liked athletics’,” Dr. Dennis said. “Fact of the matter is, that’s
plan for McKendree’s athletic and co-curricular offerings.
not accurate; I love athletics. I also love English, and I love
www.mckendree.edu
McK F e a t u r e
the performing arts. What we were trying to do was to use
halls (2011), theHub technology center (2018), 1828 Café,
athletics and co-curricular programs to attract students to
and an updated Ames Dining Hall. Off campus, McKendree
the institution and to engage them in the activities that
now boasts a Gallery of Art in downtown Lebanon, a
they enjoy, to help recruit them here.”
Wrestling and Sports Performance Center, and the McKendree Metro RecPlex in O’Fallon.
Dr. Dennis also supported the creation of the Marching Bearcat Band, Show Choir, 117th Regiment Cyber Defense
A healthy and vibrant campus life also meant bringing
Team, and nationally ranked speech and debate teams.
together students from different backgrounds, beliefs and
Students flocked to the new clubs, organizations, Greek
cultures throughout the world. As part of the Fulbright
societies, and athletic teams, forming friendships and
Program, Dr. Dennis had studied and taught in Germany’s
creating lasting memories that would define their
education system; he had experienced firsthand the
McKendree experience.
importance of cultural exchange and study abroad. He encouraged the creation of new majors in global studies
To accommodate such rapid growth in enrollment,
and international relations. He also continued the
programs and activities, the campus itself needed to
University’s strong partnership with the Tanaka Ikuekai
change and offer more innovative and modern facilities.
Educational Foundation, which supports the annual
Dr. Dennis oversaw many ambitious construction projects
Technos International Prize for a graduating senior and
and renovations, including the Piper Academic Center
a two-week trip Japan for two students and a faculty
(2001), Hettenhausen Center for the Arts (2006), Leemon
member each summer. Dr. Dennis encouraged students
Field, McKendree West Apartments, two new residence
and professors to explore opportunities for learning and
INCREASE RESOURCES
STRENGTHEN REPUTATION
Successful fundraising campaigns supported the
The Distinguished Speaker Series, which has brought to
construction of many new facilities, including the Piper
campus notable guest speakers such as poet Maya
Academic Center.
Angelou, enhances the University’s reputation. 9
McK F e a t u r e teaching abroad through the U.S. Department of State’s
expose people to new ideas, new thoughts, new ways of
prestigious Gilman International Scholarship Program and
thinking about themselves and other people.” In 2019,
Fulbright Program.
students from 39 countries, 39 states and a U.S. territory made McKendree their second home.
Dr. Dennis Ryan, professor emeritus of mathematics, began his teaching career at McKendree three years
In addition to creating a more diverse student body,
before Dr. Dennis became president. He remembers what
Dr. Dennis sought to instill a greater sense of social
a powerful impact the new president had. “Jim changed
responsibility and continue McKendree’s tradition of giving
the nature of what McKendree was all about,” he said.
back to the community. One of his first actions as President
“He opened us up, really, to the country first, and then
was to create an organization on campus that would later
internationally. We are more representative of the nation
be named the Lyn Huxford Center for Community Service.
and the world than we were before.”
This center connects students to a wide range of volunteer opportunities throughout the area. He encouraged the start
Dr. Dennis had a vision for making the campus itself more
of practicum courses which linked service to academics
representative of the global community. Learning, he
in majors like sociology and included service-learning
believed, occurred not only in the classroom or another
experiences abroad or locally. After the 2014 shooting
country, but also in the dining hall, the quad and the
death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., rocked the
residence halls. “I’m a great believer in what goes on when
nation, he formed the Social Justice and Equity Committee
you’re from Iowa and you’re rooming with someone who’s
to promote understanding and discussion of racial injustice
from Ethiopia,” he said. “There are a lot of good things that
and other issues affecting our country, communities and
happen in the dynamic that takes place. To encounter
campus.
people who are different than you are, who have a different vision of the world, who have a different religion,
Dr. Dennis’ commitment to service has been not only
a different political system, a different impression of the
a priority but also a personal practice, one he plans to
United States—and to interact with those people and talk
continue in retirement. He worked alongside McKendree
about values and cultural differences—that, to me, is the
students on volunteer projects during the New Student
real meaning of learning. That’s what we’re trying to do, to
Orientation community service day, Into the Streets. As the
Dr. Dennis routinely sought students’ feedback, inviting them to his home for an informal chat and “Pizza with the President.”
Responsible Citizenship
“Into the Streets” and other volunteer opportunities enable students to serve the local community. 10
www.mckendree.edu
Student Engagement
McK F e a t u r e 2019 president of the Leadership Council of Southwestern
Piper Academic Center and the Hett; and FORWARD:
Illinois, he led efforts to improve the region’s economic
The Campaign for McKendree University, which is raising
development. Over the years, he served on numerous
$40 million for renovations to Voigt Science Building and
boards and executive boards including the Higher
Holman Library. Before 1994, the University had never
Education Consortium of Metropolitan St. Louis, Memorial
raised more than $1 million in a campaign. While donors
Hospital, St. Louis Regional Chamber, Council of
traditionally gave funds to endow scholarships, there
Independent Colleges, Associated Colleges of Illinois,
was not a history of giving on an operational or capital
and Federation of Independent Colleges. He is also the
improvement level. Dr. Dennis’ efforts to develop trustees
past president of Illinois Campus Compact, an organization
and friends of the University to support McKendree’s plans
dedicated to volunteerism.
and activities have had groundbreaking results.
“I believe that we appreciate things more when we
Perhaps Dr. Dennis’ most definitive contribution has
contribute something back,” he said. “I wanted our
been the student-centered focus he instilled into the
students to learn and to be exposed to the whole idea
McKendree culture. “He made it important, acceptable
that ‘You’re the lucky ones. You get to go to college. That
and required for faculty to think about who they teach,”
is lucky.’ I wanted to ensure that our students walked out
recalled Dr. Dennis Ryan. “It’s more for them than just
of McKendree feeling a sense of obligation that: a) they
lecturing; it’s about the individual student. People on this
were fortunate to be here; and b) they have an obligation
campus care about who they teach, and Jim had an
to give back.”
enormous amount of influence in making people do that.” Outside the classroom, Dr. Dennis promoted the unique
Dr. Dennis tapped the spirit of giving as he pursued greater
value each student brought to campus, the significance
fundraising efforts to better meet the University’s needs.
of forming personal connections, and the necessity of
During his presidency, McKendree received its largest gifts
allowing their voices to be heard.
in school history and raised an unprecedented $90 million for programs and projects, including a record-setting $18
He started new traditions, such as Pizza with the President,
million pledged in 2019. He oversaw two highly successful
in which he invited small groups of students into his home
capital campaigns: Heritage, Heart & Hope, which funded
for an informal dinner to hear their stories and get their
He emphasized international education to prepare students for a more global society.
Academic Excellence
He set a goal to recruit more of the region’s most academically talented students, particularly underrepresented students.
Global Community McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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McK F e a t u r e
1994 —A NEW APPROACH
The new president’s decision to stay overnight in the residence hall drew attention from the media.
1996 —FOOTBALL RETURNS
Bearcat football returned to the gridiron after a 60-year absence.
feedback on life at McKendree. “I wanted to have
out free ice cream on the quad. For many students and
opportunities where I could sit and talk with students
alumni, it is hard to imagine a McKendree without him.
without anybody else around,” he said. “Just 8, 10, 12 students. I asked two questions: ‘What’s the best thing
“He brought an energy and excitement to the campus,”
about McKendree?’ and ‘If you had a magic wand, what’s
said Malinda (Pruitt) Heuring ’95. “He was a constant figure
the one thing you would improve?’ They come up with
at academic and athletic events. As a player on the newly
great ideas.”
formed women’s soccer team, we appreciated an extra fan cheering for us in the stands. He would chat with
Incoming students quickly learned he was the president
students—many times on the sidewalks—wanting to know
who took school spirit seriously, making it mandatory to
us and get our input on transformational ideas that he had.
learn the school fight song and leading it, repeatedly, at
He invited us to dinner at his home, spent the week in our
annual New Student Orientation. He greeted each student
dorms, and even made a personal phone call to my home
as he carved and served the Thanksgiving turkey in Ames
after I was injured in a soccer game—not because he had
Dining Hall to kick off the holiday season. When warmer
to, but because he truly cared.”
weather returned, he brightened students’ days by handing
2009 —BEARCAT MEETS BEARCAT
He met a binturong—aka a bearcat—up close when zookeeper Jack Hanna spoke at the Hett.
2012 —STUDENT-FOCUSED
He enjoyed meeting students and their families and had a remarkable ability to remember their names.
12
www.mckendree.edu
1999 —ENERGY AND EXCITEMENT
Dr. Dennis showed his support and always seemed happiest when he was among students.
1994-2019 —NEW TRADITIONS
President Dennis delighted in surprising students with free ice cream on the hottest days.
Dr. Dennis said he hoped his presidency is remembered in
McKendree can become and invites us all to take our part
this way: “He tried hard, he did the best he could, and he
in making it happen.
really cared.” His gratitude for the accomplishments of the McKendree community as a whole attest to the humility
“I hope McKendree will continue to flourish,” he said.
that have made him so accessible as a leader and a
“The challenges are going to be tremendous for hundreds
person. “I want our community to know how grateful I am
of institutions in this country, and those that find success,
to them for their support and friendship over the 26 years
I believe, are ones that will be supported by their alumni
that I’ve been here,” he said. “People have worked
and friends, from a financial standpoint, and will invest in
extraordinarily hard to make McKendree what it is today.
the educational experience of people who are next up,
I’ve never felt like Jim Dennis did anything; I’ve felt like our
coming down that path that we’ve traveled. It’s our
community did things.”
opportunity to give back and to try to make a difference for the next person up.”
He hopes today’s generation of students, alumni, and leaders will carry on the work he started. Ever the visionary, Dr. Dennis focuses on the future University that he knows
2016 —CELEBRATING MILESTONES
Operatic soprano Christine Brewer ’76 performed at the Hettenhausen Center’s 10th anniversary gala.
2018 —NEW TECHNOLOGY
Improved facilities such as theHub keep pace with modern technology.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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McK F e a t u r e
Debate Duo Makes McK History at NPDA Championship Tournament
The NPDA took place in mid-March, just as social distancing guidelines for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) had begun. Director of Speech and Debate Joe Blasdel ’00 noted that as a result, the historic victory hasn’t felt quite real. “We really haven’t had a chance to celebrate,” he said. “It’s a great feeling to win nationals, but it’s more about the journey than the destination for me. I would have been extremely proud of Adeja and Mitch regardless of the
by Stephanie Dulaney ’10
outcome because I know what they did to prepare for nationals and have done during their entire debate careers.” For Adeja and Mitch, the NPDA championship might not have left a physical mark, but they felt its strong impression on their experience as debaters, partners and friends. Spread out over the course of three days, the competition consisted of eight preliminary round debates, followed by an elimination bracket for the teams with a winning record. In each debate, the two-person teams were randomly assigned a topic and either an affirmative or negative position they had to argue. They had just 30 minutes to prepare their argument. Winning teams were determined by a panel of judges that increased in number the more a team advanced. Mitch and Adeja took the preliminary rounds by storm, winning seven of the eight debates, and earning the majority of judges’ votes in all four subsequent elimination rounds.
When senior Adeja Powell ’20 and junior Mitch Deleel (shown above with Dr. Joni Bastian, vice president for student affairs) placed first in this year’s National Parliamentary Debate Association Championship Tournament (NPDA), it was more than just a historic win for McKendree. It was the perfect ending to their threeyear partnership as debaters. They competed against 65 teams from 21 colleges and universities across the country, including debaters from University of California at Berkeley, Texas Tech University, and University of Oregon. Hosted at McKendree this year, the NPDA was truly a dream come true for the winning Bearcat Debate Team. In addition to their victory, the duo also led the McKendree team to a first place finish in tournament sweepstakes. “Knowing we were able to get a national championship win for McKendree was an incredible feeling,” said Adeja, who graduated with a degree in political science degree in May. “It was the best end to my career I could’ve asked for.” While both debaters were initially overwhelmed with disbelief, Mitch agreed that “a championship win was the only fitting sendoff for such a wonderful three-year experience [with Adeja].” 14
www.mckendree.edu
Their championship win clinched a partnership that began in early 2018 when Adeja’s previous debate partner left partway through the year. “Mitch was the most promising new debater we had at the time, but there was a huge experience gap,” she said. Although Adeja had years of practice competing in debate throughout high school, Mitch did not start until coming to McKendree. Despite the difference, they surprised everyone by qualifying for the National Parliamentary Tournament of Excellence (NPTE) that year and taking home a ninth-place finish. “It was an incredible accomplishment considering we had such a late start together and probably had no business even attending the national tournament,” Adeja said. “It was the beginning of a really great partnership.” Over the next two years, they went on to win six large regional tournaments and 23 consecutive debates, setting a new team record. When asked what makes them so successful together, Mitch and Adeja interestingly both give the same answer: being flexible. “Our biggest strength as a team is certainly our flexibility,” Mitch said. “When Adeja and I were first paired, we were really only focused
McK F e a t u r e on establishing ourselves with one major argument that
required to listen and be a team player,” said Mitch.
could apply to a wide variety of rotating topics. This year
“Especially in high school, I generally kept to myself, but
however, we committed ourselves to becoming effective
debate forces you to interact with your teammates and
at multiple different strategies, such as technical debate,
understand their wants, not only on the team, but in
policy debate and other forms of kritikal debate.” Similarly,
individual rounds as well to facilitate the best strategy
Adeja also cites their “ability to be flexible and approach
for both partners. Without debate, I don’t think I would
every debate confidently. Plus, we always said being best
have this mindset.”
friends gave us a strategic advantage! We got along really well, which helped us to stay calm and focused in high
Joe, their head coach, has led the McKendree Speech and
pressure situations. It made winning fun, and I think that
Debate Team since 2003 and competed on it as a student
was the best part about nationals.”
from 1996 to 2000. What has kept him invested in it all
While most partners are often assigned to specific speaker positions during a debate and stick to them, Mitch and Adeja’s flexibility, trust and respect for each other enabled them to often switch speaker positions depending on the topic or the strategy they decided upon. “I’ve learned a lot about patience and trust from Mitch,” Adeja said. “I really felt like I could depend on him in every round to make the right decision, and for the most part, he’s taught me to let go and trust another person to make the right choice.” Their experience together has led them through a wide range of debate topics and strategies, from world events that occurred just days before a tournament to arguments that allowed them to express their creativity and sense of
these years are the ways he sees students like Mitch and
humor. When confronted with an unfamiliar topic, they
Adeja reaching their full potential. “Whether a student is
often relied on a “playbook” of argumentative strategies
a successful high school debater like Adeja or did not
they knew were proven to work. In other cases, they
debate in high school like Mitch, the quality in which I’m
pushed the limits of an argument just to see what would
most interested is potential,” he said. “That's partly a
happen.
question of intellectual talent, but it's also about work ethic. To be successful at speech and debate, you have to not
“Debate is such a fun activity because there are almost no
only construct and present your arguments, but you must
rules dictating how you approach the topic, only that you
have an equally good understanding of arguments against
have to be affirmative or negative,” Adeja said. “There are
your position—and sometimes, argue for positions with
a lot of good memories of us saying the most absurd thing
which you personally disagree. It’s this process of helping
we could to win the debate. On one topic, the affirmative
people develop their own ideas and understanding of
team said that affirming the topic would be good to end
others’ ideas that I enjoy most about coaching.”
the oppression of animals, and we said we should all dress up like animals instead because it would force us to
Adeja and Mitch are grateful for their experience as debate
empathize with them. It was a totally ridiculous argument
partners representing McKendree. As political science
and mostly a joke, but we ended up winning the debate.”
majors, they each plan to attend graduate school and look forward to one day giving back to the team as debate
Memories such as these are what make being on the
coaches or judges on the circuit. Adeja is currently an
debate team a crucial component of the McKendree
assistant coach for this year's squad and plans to
experience for debate students. Mitch and Adeja have
eventually earn her master's degree in communication.
not only learned from each other, but also witnessed their
Mitch's goal is to attend law school at Washington
own personal growth by just being part of the team.
University.
“The biggest lesson I’ve gained from debate is the humility
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
15
McK F e a t u r e
COVID-19 McKendreans Respond with Flexibility and Service
D
uring spring break week, the University took dramatic steps and swift action to safeguard its students and employees
from the emerging threat of the novel coronavirus. Following the guidance of public health agencies and the orders of government officials, all academic instruction was shifted to a remote format and most employees were directed to work from home. (“Zoom” became a familiar noun and verb.) McKendreans adjusted to a “new normal” that upended schedules and routines, forced the cancellation of events, athletics, performances and activities, and postponed the Class of 2020’s commencement ceremony until 2021. Here are the stories of McKendreans who faced the challenges of this unprecedented time with action, service and positive attitudes. Meet a Doctorate in Nursing Practice student who led a rural hospital through the pandemic. A graduating senior, whose final semester came to an abrupt and bittersweet end. A nurse who volunteered to work at a New York hospital’s COVID-19 ward. A mobile phlebotomist who draws blood samples at patients’ homes. A staff member, who used creative thinking and resourcefulness to make much-needed protective gear for health care workers. And a newly elected mayor facing unforeseen responsibilities.
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McK F e a t u r e
Pandemic Preparedness: Assess, Evaluate, Educate, Collaborate
The next phase of preparedness consists of educating employees testing the plans via drills and exercises. Hospitals must ensure their staff are educated about the plans and policies, as well as evaluate their level of comprehension of the plans. A key way to determine
by Kendra Taylor, MSN ’06
comprehension and effectiveness of preparedness is to Hospital administrators throughout the world know it is not a matter of “if” but “when” their communities, and subsequently their hospitals, will be impacted by a pandemic such as COVID-19. The one question weighing on their minds should always be: Is my organization prepared?
Preparedness and readiness is an important aspect of a hospital administrator’s job. Hospitals need to employ several initiatives, strategies, tactics, policies, and procedures to ensure the overall preparedness of their organizations. The first phase of preparedness is completing a risk assessment and evaluation of the organization related to potential hazards and vulnerabilities. Hospitals would recognize and identify the potential for emerging and pandemic illnesses such as COVID-19 as a potential hazard for their organization through this risk assessment. It is important to re-evaluate and assess the organization annually for potential hazards and vulnerabilities; this will assist with policy and plan development relevant to the hospital’s specific needs. The policies and plans then serve as the foundation and building blocks of the entire hospital preparedness program. When considering an organization’s response to COVID-19, hospitals need to activate their emerging and pandemic illness plans and policies, or a plan similar in concept. It is important to utilize an interdisciplinary team approach when developing these plans, including members from administration, nursing, infection prevention, risk management, facilities, and ancillary departments. An
conduct drills or exercises that will test the policies and plans. When evaluating emerging and pandemic illness plans, it is important to practice with staff on proper personal protective equipment usage, including the donning and doffing of the equipment, as well as proper isolation of patients. Additional drills or exercises that need to be completed to evaluate the effectiveness of the plan and determine staff comprehension are patient influx and surge drills specific to pandemic illnesses. This may include a tent set up outside of the hospital for triage or patient overflow. Drills help to evaluate the triage process, patient flow, and specialized equipment utilization. They are very helpful in identifying weaknesses within the plan and provide opportunities to make adjustments prior to activating the plan during a true pandemic response.
“ As health care providers, we are all in this together... ” The final phase of hospital preparedness is collaboration. The importance of this phase cannot be overstated. Hospitals will want to include emergency responders, local and state health departments, other health care providers in their community, and recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization as part of their preparedness program. It is also beneficial to collaborate with other hospitals similar in size and resources to evaluate the potential effectiveness of the plan and ways to further improve it. As health care providers, we are all in this together and have a common goal to protect our patients, our employees, and the communities we serve. With robust hospital emergency preparedness programs, we can achieve our goal, even when fighting foes as formidable as COVID-19.
interdisciplinary team will provide a more inclusive view of the hospital, as well as potential impacts and solutions. Once the plans and policies are developed, they need to be continually reviewed and updated. Reviewing the plans and policies annually will keep them updated to current hospital processes and staffing.
Kendra Taylor, MSN ’06 is the president and chief executive officer of Salem Township Hospital in Salem, Ill., and a current student in the doctoral nursing program.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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McK F e a t u r e
I Prefer Corona with a Slice of Lime
so many feared: Graduation is cancelled. Everybody that
by Magdalena Knapp ’20
roommates and I packed our stuff and moved out of our
to avoid the spread of the virus. Within two days my dorms. We felt numb, and we couldn’t understand what
It’s 9 a.m. on a Friday morning.
was happening. To some people this might not be
I should be in the United States.
comprehensible, but we felt depressed. We felt that
I should be sitting in Senior
something had been taken from us by a thief that was out
Thesis right now, looking at
of our control. Of course, we understood it was the safest
Dr. Boysen while he is writing
thing to do, but it still hurt so much. I didn’t get to say
down the plan for today’s class.
goodbye to most of my friends because they all left in
Instead, I am back at home in
a rush, as if something was chasing after them.
Italy. I am looking at Dr. Boysen through his webcam, while he shares his screen with the class in order to teach us something about SPSS. This is a new situation for me. A situation that no one would have expected could happen only three weeks ago. Three weeks ago, everything was different; my cap and gown for graduation came with the mail and my roommate and I tried them on and took funny pictures with them. We were excited and thrilled that the moment we worked for since 3.75 years ago was finally coming closer. Little did we know that we wouldn’t get to wear our caps and gowns on May 9, 2020. May 9, 2020 was my graduation date, the day where I finally would get to walk across the stage and experience the moment I had seen so many times in American movies. I wanted to know what it was like, the feeling of walking across a big stage, while your friends and family are there to support you. For the past three years I had told my parents how excited I was for them to come here, to show them my campus, to introduce them to my friends and teachers, and to let them be part of this special moment. It would have been a reward. My reward. And a reward for hundreds of students in my class. Things changed during the week of spring break. The spread of the coronavirus to America caused schools to close and to hold classes online. Zoom meetings and phone calls with my teachers were now my number one priority during the day. I thought this was temporary, a few
18
has the chance should leave the school and go home
I booked a flight to go home. The following days I was in a rush to get everything set: pack my stuff up, send emails to professors, turn in books, cancel my bank account and phone contract, and go to the nurse to get my personal supply of face masks and hand sanitizer for the journey home. I said goodbye to the few people that were still on campus, hugged them, not knowing when I will see them again, and took one last picture in front of my dorm room. I always thought that the day when I would get to close my room door one last time would be a happy day, a day filled with laughter and excitement for what was to come. Instead, I was just incredibly sad. I stayed at my friend’s house for a few days and then she took me to the airport one last time. Hugging her goodbye broke my heart, because that was the moment when everything inside of me realized it was over. The journey home was long, filled with nervous people, rushed police officers, empty airplanes, crowded airplanes, the caustic smell of sanitizer everywhere, and many eyes. It was filled with eyes because that was the only thing I could see in people’s faces; the rest was covered by a face mask. Mine was, too. Equipped with my face mask, latex gloves, and hand sanitizer, I stepped into the first airplane that took me from St. Louis to New York. It was empty. I changed my gloves, put on a new face mask and stepped onto the next plane that took me from New York to Rome, Italy. The plane was crowded. People were yelling, and their attempts not to touch each other made it almost impossible to walk through them without getting
weeks max. I was wrong.
yelled at. Due to the virus everyone entering Italy had to fill
On Friday, March 20, McKendree University students
country. “Return to home” was my reason. But when I
received the email that was going to set in stone what
stepped off the train onto the ground of what was my
www.mckendree.edu
out a document with the reasons we wanted to enter the
McK F e a t u r e hometown, it didn’t feel like home. The streets that were
believe that, because otherwise why would something
usually full of people were empty. Stores, restaurants,
cruel like this happen to the world?
and bars were closed. The few people that were walking around didn’t talk; they didn’t take notice of each other,
One day I will come back to America and make new
nor did they offer me help with my luggage. It felt as if
memories, see all my friends that have become family
everyone and everything was poison.
again, and I will bring my family with me. They can see where I lived, get to meet my friends, and will understand
I am in my room now, under quarantine for two weeks. I
why I loved this place so much. One day. I promise.
didn’t hug my parents or my sister when I got home. A high five with my foot had to be enough. I have a lot of time to think now, to think about what happened and process it. I am worried about my friends in America, worried about
Reprinted with permission from the McKendree Review
my friends and family here, about all the people in the
student news website, originally posted on 3/30/20.
hospitals and the people that are sick without knowing it
Magdalena, a psychology major from Bolzano, South Tyrol
yet. The numbers of deaths rise every day.
in Italy, was co-editor of the Review, president of Phi Eta Sigma honor society, a member of Psi Chi psychology
I believe, though, that we’ll make it through this. Everything
honor society, and captain of the Bearcats women’s
happens for a reason. I want to believe that. I have to
swimming team.
Innovative Alumna Offers Mobile Medical Lab Services
for a hospitalist program where we monitored frequent ER visits, one of the biggest issues was patients not following up with their ordered labs. Labs determine about 70 percent of a provider’s diagnosis so without blood work,
by Krysti Connelly, executive director for communications
people tend to not know or understand what’s going on
and marketing
with them. My initial thought was to run around and draw blood on weekends and evenings as needed and it turned Danita Smith ’02, owner
into an actual company. The need is great.”
of My Blooming Health, a mobile phlebotomy
In January, the company expanded with the addition of a
practice and walk-in lab
walk-in lab, which provides free and low-cost blood testing
in St. Louis, Mo., is on a
and DNA testing services. Shortly after it opened, however,
mission to make health
COVID-19 caused the walk-in lab to shut down temporarily.
care more accessible.
Danita and her team of seven employees focused on their mobile phlebotomy service and were the only ones going
Originally from Alton, Ill.,
into patient’s homes to do blood draws in the St. Louis
Danita started the mobile
region.
medical lab in 2013 after she realized that many
“We limited who we would see in the field,” she said.
disabled and elderly
“Only patients who were homebound received services.
patients were not
We stopped drug testing and DNA testing, as well as
monitoring and maintaining their health due to their
visiting patients who wanted to just use our mobile service
homebound status, transportation issues or work conflicts.
for their convenience.”
“This started as a method for me to communicate health,
For her efforts, Danita was honored on May 29 by the
health resources and education to the community,” she
Riverbender.com online newspaper as a “Difference
said. “My goal was health fairs and vlogs. I was inspired at
Maker” during the COVID-19 pandemic.
work to start mobile phlebotomy because as the manager
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
19
McK F e a t u r e She had no idea what awaited. “On my first day, I went to the hospital and we had no orientation,” she said. “It was ‘Here’s your patients and by the way, they are crashing.’ But nursing is nursing no matter where we go, and we know what to do.” Renee worked 12-hour shifts, four days a week. Each day, she and other traveling health care workers were bused to the hospital. “I would go in daily to people crashing and dying patients doubled up in rooms having to stay on stretchers because we were out of beds,” she said. “It’s normally a 600-bed hospital but more beds and units had
Alumna on the Front Lines by Krysti Connelly, executive director for communications and marketing After Renee Rhodes ’03 experienced two layoffs from her job in the coal industry, she wanted to find a new, more stable career she could love. “My friend was hospitalized for a few months,” said Renee, who earned a degree in organizational communication. “One day, I saw a team of nurses respond to a cardiac arrest. They knew exactly what to do and saved that man’s life. I knew it was for me. So, I went back to school for my RN.” A registered nurse for three years, Renee started working as a traveling nurse for AYA Health Care in 2019. She was finishing up a contract in Springfield, Ill., when the reality of COVID-19 started to hit her. “I would see reports on the progression in Italy and I felt this sense of darkness just lingering,” Renee said. “Daily death tolls in Italy, mass burials in India, patients dying alone, nurses and doctors exhausted. Then Washington and New York started. I knew I had to help, seeing the news, hearing death tolls, the hospitals setting up tents. People were dying. Nurses were taking care of too many at a time because they had to. It’s my calling to care and be a nurse, to save people. I just knew I had to get there and help.” Despite the risk of exposure to the deadly virus, she applied for a crisis contract nursing position in New York City. Within two hours, Renee signed on to work for eight weeks at NYU Winthrop Hospital, the epicenter of the coronavirus. She left her home in Belleville, Ill., and drove 15 hours, leaving behind her parents and her dog, Maxx. 20
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to be added. Every patient but maybe one on each floor of the hospital, was COVID positive.” The cafeteria, Cath Lab, some surgery and endoscopy rooms, and two parking lots were converted into patient units and pop-up intensive care units. “We gowned up, minimized exposure, clustered care, and had doctors and physician assistants on the floor 24/7,” she said. “Codes and intubations were left and right. You never knew who would just crash. It’s so fast and scary, nothing like I’ve ever seen.” An immense amount of personal protective equipment was essential: a gown, gloves, surgical mask covered by an N-95 mask, protective eye equipment, head covering and shoe covers. “I got one N-95 mask and face shield that I kept in a brown bag and reused for a week,” she said. “If it got soiled, I could sign out another one. A few weeks into my contract, we could no longer wear any makeup at work, in case we ran out of N-95s and needed to reuse them.” It was difficult caring for patients who were afraid and alone. “So many people with no medical history. So many young people, but all of them completely alone, isolated from loved ones and all human interaction. On my floor there was one daily doctor visit, unless they would get worse, and us nurses. We became everything to them; a FaceTime on an iPad so they could see the family, conversation, reassurance, and food or water supplier. You don’t have time to think about the madness. It’s happening and it’s crazy.” Renee knew the assignment wouldn’t be easy or safe, but it was an opportunity to be a part of something big and important. In the ongoing effort to find an effective treatment for COVID-19, healthcare professionals were encouraged to participate in clinical trials of some medications. She participated in trial studies of platelets,
McK F e a t u r e hydroxychloroquine, Remdesivir, Plaquenil, zinc, vitamin C, hyperbaric O2, and plasma infusions.
who succumbed to the virus earlier that day. “I brought my patient a breakfast tray at 08:45 and wished her a “Happy Mother’s Day,”” she recalled. “She told me she felt dizzy.
She has had both
By 09:43 we were pronouncing her dead. In that hour
heartbreaking
everything changed. We called Rapid Response, we coded,
and touching
we intubated, and we started compressions when her heart
experiences. “We’d
stopped, but my 88-pound mother of three was forever
all do our very best
gone on Mother’s Day. COVID doesn’t care what day it is.”
and support each other through the
For her heroic efforts in New York, Renee was nominated
deaths on the floor
as a JetBlue Healthcare Hero and won two tickets with the
and celebrate
airline. “My experience has been life changing,” she said.
together our
“I’ve seen so much death, and simultaneously so much
discharges,” she said. “My floor would play music over the
celebration of life and community support, it is hard to
speaker and line up in the hall and cheer the patients as
process as it happens. I coped initially just by the shock
they were taken out via ambulance and not a body bag.
and urgency of it all. We did what we had to do every day.
We celebrated the discharge of our 750th COVID patient
Posting updates on Facebook was my way to reflect on the
and watched her get wheeled out of the building.” They
reality of the situation in New York and to let friends and
received cards and drawings from local children and family
family know I was OK. Sharing my story is a great way for
members, which they hung up at the hospital. Food was
me to process, reflect and validate my feelings.”
delivered daily from local restaurants, donated by community members and families. “We ate so much
Renee left New York City on May 30, but her return home
we called it the ‘COVID 15’,” she laughed.
was short lived. At the end of June, she returned for a three-month COVID assignment at a rehabilitation facility
On Mother’s Day, NYC firefighters came to honor the
in Brooklyn and the intensive care unit at Bellevue Hospital
hospital workers, bringing them dinner and setting off their
in New York City.
sirens. As Renee witnessed how the city embraced front line workers, she couldn’t escape the memory of a patient
IT Director Uses 3D Printer to Make Face Shields Halo-style visors made on the 3D printer are ready to fasten to transparency sheets.
George had read about people in Europe helping hospitals offset the shortage of face masks by 3D-printing visors to make face shields. “I immediately thought this would be a great use of our 3D printer,” he said. The printer sat idle on campus after instruction moved online in March and faculty and staff members began working remotely under the governor’s stay-at-home order. George retrieved the printer from “theHub” technology center and brought it home. After work and on weekends, he printed the halo headband-style visors, a few at a time. An overhead projector transparency sheet is attached to the visor to create a clear protective barrier over the face. George’s daughters, ages 3 and 5, helped him out on the
When Director of Information Technology George Kriss
production line in the family’s basement. The face shields
’08, MBA read about health care workers’ urgent plea for
were donated to local front-line hospital and health care
personal protective equipment during the coronavirus
workers.
pandemic, he found a way to address the need. McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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McK F e a t u r e
People Need A Calming Presence and Steady Leadership by Stephanie Dulaney ’10 Elected Mayor of Estherville, Iowa in December 2019, Joseph May ’03 made history as the city’s first African American to hold that office. Just three months into his new role, Joseph also became the city’s first leader to handle the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally from St. Louis, Mo., Joseph arrived in Estherville in 2015 when he was selected to be the pastor of Joy! Fellowship Church there. He and his family got involved volunteering within the community and fell in love with the city. Serving others has always been a core component of Joseph’s character, from his decision to major in theological studies at McKendree to his years of active duty service in the Army as a paralegal at Ft. Benning, Ga. “I see my role as mayor as a continuation of service to others,” he said. “It is my duty as a Christian and a veteran to help those in need in any capacity possible. I saw things in my city that I either did not understand or I did not totally agree with, so I ran for office. After getting into office, I saw the issues from a different perspective and understood some of the choices that were made. The areas I still saw a need for improvement, I worked on.” In addition to mayor, Joseph is also the director of mission services at Avera Holy Family Health in Estherville, where he trains and leads staff in providing chaplain services for those in the health care system. When COVID-19 hit the country in early March, both of his jobs were critically impacted. “It has reshaped some of the services that my department at Avera provides and caused us to look for new and innovative ways to provide missional and chaplain services,” he said. “Christ did not give up on His mission because things got difficult. Instead, He was motivated to press on, and that is the example I look to in times like these. Finding ways to train, inspire, and lead others through technology.” 22
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As mayor, Joseph discovered that there was no learning curve when it came to COVID-19 because everyone was unprepared for its scope. He prioritized open and honest communication above all else, writing weekly letters to community members, giving biweekly radio addresses, and speaking through video on social media to provide updates and encouragement. “People need a calming presence and steady leadership,” he said. “I had to learn to help them on a whole new level.” That cultivation of dialogue soon became even more important as the nation reeled from the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, spurring thousands around the world to demand an end to racial injustice. Joseph says he used the experience of adopting his two sons this year as a lesson on seeing life through another’s eyes. “Racial inequality is a difficult subject for people to talk about because some have experienced it personally, some are recovering racists, and some do not fully understand it,” he said. “Much like me and my younger boys, I did not fully understand their pain or appreciate what they had been through until I saw it through their eyes.”
“ We have before us an opportunity to change for the better. ” Joseph shares that same message of educating oneself on others’ experiences and taking action through his role in city government. Focusing on six key areas, he says resolution can be achieved when we take the time to lament with others even when we may not understand their pain; pray for healing; take action through conversations and education; seek justice for more than ourselves; be merciful; and practice humility. “We have before us an opportunity to change for the better,” he said. “But we must be willing to figure this out together and help people grow. I challenge you to do more than just post about it on social media; I challenge you to get involved on some level, whether that is having the conversation in your home, researching the civil rights movement to understand it, or running for political office to have a greater impact. Everyone can do something beyond what they have done.”
OUR M c K e n d r e e OPINION: WHITE VIOLENCE AGAINST BLACKS IS AS AMERICAN AS APPLE PIE by Dr. Ann V. Collins, professor of political science
by the predominant white power structure. Little meaningful policy changed in health care, education, employment and housing. Now another senseless death of a black American by white
This article originally appeared in the New York Daily News
America has occurred. Yes, a white police officer murdered
on June 5, 2020 and is reprinted with permission. Dr. Collins
George Floyd, but white America as a whole is complicit.
is the author of “All Hell Broke Loose: American Race Riots
Centuries of purposeful laws designed to maintain white
from the Progressive Era through World War II” and “The
supremacy confirms that. This same display of violence
Dawn Broke Hot and Somber: U.S. Race Riots of 1964.”
has happened over and over again, yet countless opportunities to stop it have come up empty. The
“I can’t breathe.” “Hands up, don’t shoot.” “Can we all get
conclusions and recommendations from the 1968 Kerner
along?” “Long, hot summers.” “All hell broke loose.” George
Commission Report, for instance, were quietly swept aside.
Floyd, Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Rodney King. Harlem, Watts, Detroit. Wilmington, East St. Louis, Tulsa.
White Americans will never truly comprehend what it means to be a person of color in the United States. I’ve
White racial violence has deep and relentless roots in the
never had to have the talk with my white, 6-foot-2, 18-year-
United States; I study it for a living. One type of especially
old son and 16-year-old daughter. I’ve never been followed
vicious ruthlessness deployed by whites on black
around in a store. I’ve never been singled out in a
Americans came in the form of riots. Appearing with force
classroom, or any setting for that matter, and been asked
and regularity in the early 19th century and mostly ending
to represent my entire race on a certain issue. I, like all
during World War II, whites used this type of brutality to
white Americans, will never experience the continuous
deny African Americans any sort of progress or freedom
waves of trauma and exhaustion.
in society. But what we can do is listen. We can learn from history Wholesale plundering and burning of black communities,
and act on it by using the privilege we’ve been afforded.
massive bloodshed and lynchings characterized these
(I’ve dedicated 20 years to researching racial violence, and
occurrences. African Americans in areas throughout the
I’m still learning.) We can educate our children. We can
country like Wilmington, N.C., in 1898, East St. Louis, Ill.,
do the work to be antiracists. We can engage in difficult
in 1917, and Tulsa, Okla., in 1921, endured these violent
conversations and call out racism in all forms—both
atrocities at the hands of their white neighbors. Underlying
individual and systemic—when we see it. We can march in
embers, such as labor unrest, demographic shifts and
solidarity and draw attention to the power structure that
political strife, stoked by racist white community leaders
enables these occurrences.
who signaled the time to act, led to these eruptions— usually after some sort of accusation against black
We can engage on social media. We can donate to worthy
residents.
organizations that fight for justice and equity. We can shop
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash
at black-owned businesses. We can lobby those in power. These types of riots eventually gave way to the 1960s
We can support people of color who run for office. And,
black uprisings in places such as Harlem, Watts and Detroit,
certainly, one of the most powerful things we can do is
where, much like what we see today, people ransacked
vote.
stores and destroyed property. Mired in dismal economic, social and political conditions and reacting to police
No parent, no child should ever have to hear the last
brutality, black Americans used these desperate actions to
dying gasps of their son or daughter or father or mother
scream out the urgent need for new laws and institutions
play out on social media, or see a lifeless body lying in
that would put them on an equal footing in society.
the street for hours, or beg for this country to come to its senses. I remain hopeful that day will come, mostly
Instead, also much like today, those in power met them
because of the passion for social justice that I see in my
with calls for “law and order,” and only a modicum was
children and my students, the ones who will move us
done to address the underlying problems perpetuated
forward.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
23
OUR M c K e n d r e e
Homecoming 2020
OUR M c K e n d r e e
2020 Alumni Awards McKendree University celebrated several alumni for their exceptional contributions to the University, their professions and communities during the 2020 Virtual Homecoming weekend. “These are men and women who have built upon their McKendree education. They have made, and continue to make, a difference in the world,” said Alumni Association President Ryan Furniss ’00 in an awards ceremony video shown on Oct. 3.
Peter Akers Award
was a member of the local Rotary Club. After many years in
The Alumni Association’s highest honor recognizes
and his wife had shared. He enjoys life with his dog, Koko,
remarkable professional success, outstanding service,
and cat, Jordan, making new friends, getting involved in the
and unparalleled loyalty to the University.
local parish, and tending his flower garden, which includes
Illinois, George moved to Sebring, Fla., fulfilling a dream he
20 pineapple plants. Reverend Dr. George Pence ’61 attributes his many academic and professional successes to the McKendree faculty who taught him “to think and to question everything.” As a student, he was a member and president of the Platonion Literary Society (Plato), participated in Sigma Zeta biology honor society, and assisted Dr. Otha Clark in the history department. Soon after receiving his bachelor’s degree in history and philosophy in 1961, George was ordained a deacon in the Methodist Church. He earned an M.A. in social science from the University of Illinois, an M.T.S. from Seabury-Western Theological Seminary in church history and ethics, and a Ph.D. in administration of higher education and statistics from
Loyal Service Awards Recipients have shown distinguished, loyal service to the Alumni Association, its principles and purposes, and their commitment has enhanced the University’s goals and mission. Jackie Leemon ’85 graduated in 1985 and earned an MBA from Pepperdine University in 1989. A member of the University Board of Trustees since 2009, she and her parents, Chuck and Pat Leemon, have enjoyed a long-standing relationship with McKendree. Both parents have endowed scholarships named for them and Jackie
Saint Louis University.
established the Janet Leemon Hakala Endowed
A Milwaukee native, George grew up in Chicago. He and
was named in her honor by her parents.
his late wife, Ione, a 1962 McKendree graduate, lived in Edwardsville, Ill., in the 1960s. From 1965 to 1969, the couple worked for McKendree, where George further developed the admission process and served as the first director of admission. The Ione K. Pence Endowed
Scholarship for music students. Leemon Athletic Field
Jackie is an accomplished horse trainer, rider and equestrian course designer, and is one of the few course designers who also competes. She has received Grand Prix ribbons at competitions across the U.S. and has also
Scholarship was established in memory of his wife.
competed in England, Germany, Holland and Canada.
George continued his career in higher education as a
Federation licensed jumper course designer since 2008.
professor and the director of admissions at Saint Louis
Her international course designs have included the Winter
University and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Equestrian Festival and the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio
before finishing his theology degree and becoming an
de Janeiro, where she was one of only two Americans on
Episcopal priest.
the course design team.
While living in Texas, he was an assistant scout master for
She is the owner of Victory Lane Farm in Wellington, Fla.,
the local Boy Scout Troop. He served on the City Planning
where she and her husband Tim Toole reside.
In addition, she has been a United States Equestrian
and Zoning Commission and, no matter where he lived, McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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OUR M c K e n d r e e
Academy of Excellence Inductees have made exceptional contributions to the honor and prestige of the University through their achievement, leadership and character, and have demonstrated the values of a liberal arts education in their professions or chosen fields.
Judy Beasley ’69
Calvin continues to serve his alma mater by recruiting
Community Service
students and helping with internships at the University’s Career Fair and has been a guest lecturer for several Judy studied education at
courses on campus. He joined the Alumni Association
McKendree, where she was a
Board in 2020. He and his wife, Rauslyn, have two children,
member of Alpha Omega sorority.
Alayna and Calvin III.
Retired as an educator after 33 years in the Cahokia, Ill., school district,
Dr. Lisa Greene ’88
she has also presented to reading
Nursing and Health Professions
teachers throughout the Midwest. Judy is a member of the Collinsville
Lisa grew up in southern Illinois on
Women’s Club, and co-chaired its eighth annual Empty
her parents’ dairy farm. She studied
Bowls program, which raised more than $16,000 for the
biology in college and was a
Collinsville Food Pantry. She is also active in the First
member of the biology honors group
United Methodist Church of Collinsville, Ill., recently serving
and Gamma Sigma Sigma sorority.
as secretary-treasurer of her church committee. Judy’s
She later earned a Doctor of
service work reflects the values of her McKendree
Optometry degree at the University
education, the importance of giving back, and her strong
of Missouri-St. Louis. In 1994, Lisa and her family moved to the Asheville, N.C., area. She
Methodist ties.
joined Asheville Vision Associates in 1996 and in 2008 Judy enjoys returning to her alma matter to attend
became the owner of its Biltmore Park Town Square
homecoming festivities or a performance at the
location. She is a member of the American Optometric
Hettenhausen Center for the Arts.
Association, North Carolina Optometric Society, Mountain District Optometric Society, Leadership OD and the Optometric Nutrition Society.
Calvin Dye Jr. ’03 Social Sciences
Lisa has participated in many international clinics and Calvin studied sociology and after
regional vision vans with OneSight, which serves the poor
graduation began his career as an
and provides eyeglasses. During a 2008 visit to a clinic in
Illinois state trooper in 2004. In 2013,
El Salvador, she established contact with an orphanage for
he became the safety education
abused and neglected girls. She founded the non-profit
and media liaison officer, and was
Almas Unidas-Hearts United to provide humanitarian aid
certified as a special agent. In 2019
and to help young girls break the cycle of poverty and
he was named southern recruitment
abuse. Projects in Ecuador focus on children in Isla de
coordinator and the internship
Trinitario, one of the poorest communities, providing
coordinator for central and southern Illinois. Calvin was
school supplies such as books, paper and pencils.
promoted to sergeant in February 2020. He is a Belleville YMCA board member, Team Illinois Youth Police Camp
Lisa has a son, Adam. She enjoys hiking with her dog,
coordinator, Belleville West High School volunteer varsity
Daisy, gardening and exploring the Asheville area.
basketball coach, and member of the cultural diversity board at Wolf Branch School in Swansea, Ill.
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OUR M c K e n d r e e
David Kosten ’95
GUESS; executive vice president, human resources at A|X
Business
Armani Exchange for 12 years; and human resources and benefits positions for MetLife, Arthur Andersen and J.Crew. David came to McKendree as a
He is currently vice president of human resources,
transfer student to study marketing
operations and engagement for Barnes & Noble, Inc.
and went on to earn a master’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis. His successful business has included positions as vice president, human resources and talent acquisition for The Children’s
David and his partner Joe like to spend time at their home at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri, where they enjoy boating, waterskiing, riding WaveRunners and being around the water with their children, Cody and Teddy.
Place; senior vice president, global human resources for
Rising Stars These graduates of the past decade have made significant achievements in their professions or chosen fields and have been highly involved with the University or their communities.
Allison Poehler ’12
Max Aviles ’17 (not pictured) Allison majored in biology and was
Max studied international relations as an honors program
secretary of Sigma Zeta math and
student and was a member of Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Eta
science honor society and president
Sigma, Pi Gamma Mu and Pi Sigma Alpha honor societies.
and vice president of Sigma Sigma
He was a peer tutor and a participant in the All In Campus
Sigma sorority. She was a Student
Democracy Challenge, Model United Nations, state Lobby
Ambassador, New Student
Day rallies, and the spring break service trip to Jamaica.
Orientation leader, University 101
As a political and legislative intern for the United Food
peer mentor and a member of the
and Commercial Workers, he worked on the successful
women’s cross-country team.
campaign of Illinois State Representative Katie Stuart. In his senior year, Max received the prestigious and highly
She earned a master’s degree in public health from
competitive Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship
Washington University in St. Louis, where she worked at
and the Tanaka Educational Trust’s Technos International
its Prevention Research Center and as a practicum student
Prize.
on the School of Medicine’s AIM-Local Health project. In 2019 he earned a master’s degree in international She later served as a disease control specialist for the
relations from the University of San Diego and completed
Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health. She is
an internship in Budapest, Hungary. He was sworn in as a
a self-employed public health consultant focusing on
U.S. Department of State diplomat last October and is
COVID-19 preparedness and response. She advises private
currently assigned to Nouakschoot, Mauritania in
businesses on policies to promote and ensure employee
northwest Africa.
health, and how to prepare and respond to public health emergencies and mitigate their impact. McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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OUR M c K e n d r e e
Sports Hall of Fame Inductees have made exceptional contributions to the honor and prestige of McKendree in the field of athletics through their leadership and character.
Lanece Clarke ’10
Adam (A.J.) Johnson ’15
Women’s Track and Field
Men’s Bowling
Lanece made her mark in both
A.J. came to McKendree as a highly
indoor and outdoor track and field
touted recruit for the Bearcats’
as one the Bearcats’ top sprinters
bowling program after his successful
during her McKendree career.
high school career. Over the next four
A 15-time National Association of
years, he showed the skill and talent
Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All-
that made him a top bowler at the
American, she earned all her awards
collegiate level and helped
during her final three seasons.
strengthen McKendree’s national reputation in the sport.
During her sophomore season, Lanece won the 100-meter dash at the 2007 NAIA Outdoor Track and Field
A.J. burst onto the scene as a first-year with a 203.094
Championships. She captured the title in a close finish,
season average, which was second on the Bearcats’ squad.
defeating her opponent by just four one-hundredths
He then led McKendree in average each of his final three
of a second. In her final two years of competition for
years, beginning with a 208.436 mark as a sophomore in
McKendree, she racked up 11 All-America honors.
2012-13.
At the 2008 and 2009 NAIA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, held in Edwardsville, Ill., she earned six
His 2013-14 season was memorable on many fronts. First,
All-America awards, finishing in the top three of the finals
he averaged a whopping 222.097 in traditional play for the
in five races. Her career included three straight top-three
year. In nine tournaments, A.J. recorded eight top-25
finishes in the outdoor 100-meter dash and three
tournament finishes, including six top-five showings and
consecutive third-place showings at the indoor 60-meter
three successive tournament victories in the first semester.
dash.
He became the first McKendree Bearcat to be named the National Bowler of the Year by both the National Collegiate
After she graduated, Lanece put together a successful
Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA) and the
career competing internationally for her native Bahamas.
International Bowling Media Association.
She raced at the Central American and Caribbean Games in both 2011 and 2013, the World Championships in 2013,
Over his McKendree career, he registered 15 top-five
2015 and 2017, as well as the Commonwealth Games in
finishes in tournament play, including five victories. He led
2014. She also represented the Bahamas at the 2016
the Bearcats to three consecutive berths at the United
Summer Olympic Games in Rio.
States Bowling Congress (USBC) Intercollegiate Team Championships. He helped McKendree capture second place at the 2013 event. He earned a total of five AllAmerica awards, including three from the NCBCA. A.J. has continued to add to his bowling accomplishments. At the time of his Sports Hall of Fame induction, he was a six-time member of Team USA. After capturing the Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) Midwest Region Player of the Year award in 2017, he has moved on to become a recognizable face on the PBA Tour.
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OUR M c K e n d r e e
Scott Roberts ’09
Evelyn Bean (not pictured)
Men’s Ice Hockey
Former Coach, Softball and Women’s Volleyball
Scott introduced himself to McKendree ice hockey fans in
Evelyn arrived on campus during the summer of 1997.
a big way during his freshman season of 2005-06, setting
Over the next 18 years she made a positive impact on two
a school record by scoring 89 points, which included 52
Bearcat programs, guiding the women’s volleyball and
goals. After matching that point total as a sophomore, he
softball programs to athletic and academic success.
went on to complete one of the most prolific careers on the ice for the
On the volleyball court, Evelyn led McKendree to 317
Bearcats.
victories during her 15 years on the Bearcats’ bench and left the program as the all-time leader in wins. Her teams
In his rookie season, Scott averaged
produced nine 20-win seasons, including a 30-10 record
more than two points per game.
in 1998. McKendree reached the American Midwest
Eighteen of his 52 goals during the
Conference Tournament 13 times in 14 years under her
2005-06 season came on the power
leadership, which included three trips to the finals. The
play, a mark that lasted just one season for McKendree.
Bearcats also qualified for NAIA regional play six times
He pumped in 45 goals and added 44 assists in matching
under her tutelage.
his 89-point effort a year later, but just over half (23) of his season goal total came with the man advantage.
As the Bearcats’ volleyball coach, she coached 22 AllConference and eight All-Region performers. In the
In his final two seasons, he registered 36 goals and 38
classroom, she mentored 28 NAIA Scholar-Athletes and
assists for 74 points as a junior before finishing with 29
75 Academic All-Conference honorees.
goals and 31 assists for 60 points in his final season. He closed his career as McKendree’s all-time leading scorer
She served a dual role as the Bearcats’ softball coach
with 162 goals and 150 assists for 312 points and set a
from 1998 to 2011 and continued in that position until 2015.
program mark with 62 power-play goals in four seasons.
She finished her softball coaching career as the program’s all-time leader in victories with 518. Evelyn led the
Thanks to his stellar play, the Bearcats also rose in the
Bearcats to three NASIA Softball National Championship
Mid-American Collegiate Hockey Association (MACHA)
appearances, including a fifth-place showing at the 1999
Silver Division standings. After helping McKendree to the
event. McKendree captured three AMC regular-season
MACHA Silver Division Tournament finals in his first year,
championships and a pair of AMC Tournament titles along
Scott helped guide the Bearcats to consecutive
the way. She was named AMC Coach of the Year three
tournament titles in each of his final two seasons. The first,
times and was a two-time NAIA Region Coach of the Year
in 2007-08, came in dramatic fashion as Scott tied the
recipient.
game at 5-5 with just over three minutes left in regulation before the Bearcats netted the game-winning goal at 4:46
A total of 59 players earned All-Conference honors under
of overtime.
her watch. She coached three NAIA All-America honorees
In his four seasons with McKendree, Scott helped guide
field, Evelyn tutored 264 AMC Academic All-Conference
the Bearcats to 79 victories, and had a winning season in
recipients. That list included 50 NAIA Scholar-Athletes and
each of those years.
30 NAIA Academic All-Region honorees. Her 2010 squad
as well as a trio of AMC Player of the Year winners. Off the
led all NAIA institutions in grade-point average.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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OUR M c K e n d r e e Pilgrimage to the Holy Land A small group of McKendreans experienced the trip of a lifetime when they traveled to Israel from Jan. 8 to 16. Co-hosted by Rev. Tim Harrison, chaplain and director of Center for Faith and Spirituality, their pilgrimage led to some of the world’s most sacred places, including the Western Wall at Temple Mount, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The group also toured the Sea of Galilee, Bethlehem, Jerusalem and Jericho. By sharing meals, discussions, staying overnight at a Jewish kibbutz in Galilee, and spending a night with Palestinian Christians in Bethlehem, they learned about the people who live in the Holy Land today. Joining Rev. Harrison and his wife Danielle were Jade Heuer, a first-year music education major; Jayden Regnier ’20; Dr. Janice Wiegmann, retired professor of nursing, and her husband Dan; and Jim and Carol Hauer, members of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lebanon, Ill.
NEW LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
content, explore tools and features, and customize their learning experience. Brightspace offers ease of use;
So long, Blackboard. McKendree’s learning management
mobility, accessibility and reliability across multiple
system was replaced by Brightspace by D2L (formerly
browsers; and improved analytics that provides
Desire2Learn), a cloud-based platform used for online and
administrators with data to make accurate and efficient
blended classroom learning. Users can view course
decisions.
Class of 2020
who completed their degree requirements in December
The University
their diplomas in the mail, rather than at the traditional
conferred 733
on-campus ceremony previously scheduled for May 9,
degrees in 2020—
to protect the health and safety of all during the current
six associate, 508
COVID-19 pandemic. The Class of 2020 and their families
baccalaureate, 198
are invited to gather in 2021, for commencement
masters and 21
ceremonies at both the Lebanon, Ill., campus and Radcliff,
doctoral—on students
Ky., location.
2019 and in May and July 2020. Graduates received
CLASS OF 2020 Undergraduate Ceremony 2 p.m. on Friday, May 7, 2021 CLASS OF 2021 Undergraduate Ceremony 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 8, 2021 CLASSES OF 2020 & 2021 Graduate Ceremony 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 8, 2021 30
www.mckendree.edu
OUR M c K e n d r e e New PBS Chapter The Honorable Michael
SENIOR VP DOWLING DEPARTS THE UNIVERSITY
Cristal, 35th international
The University bid farewell to Victoria
president of Phi Beta Sigma
Dowling, senior vice president, who left to
Fraternity, Inc., presented
become the vice president of institutional
the charter for the new
advancement at Carroll University in
Gamma Rho Eta chapter
Waukesha, Wis. She brings 36 years of
when he made a rare visit
professional experience at private liberal
to a PBS state meeting
arts colleges and universities to her new
held on campus in
role.
September. PBS is the first historically African-
“It has been an honor and a privilege
American Greek lettered organization chartered at McKendree. The fraternity
to work at McKendree and to have had the
was founded in 1914 at Howard University in Washington, D.C., to exemplify
opportunity to spend a significant part of
the ideals of brotherhood, scholarship, and service. With Mr. Cristal are
my professional career furthering its
charter members Nicholas Foster ’20 (left) and Edward Hill II ’20 (right), who
mission and goals,” said Victoria.
was the chapter president. Brent Reeves, director of diversity and inclusion and international student services, and a PBS member, advises the new
She has served McKendree twice in
chapter, which was founded on Feb. 23, 2019
her career, first as vice president for development, alumni and parent relations
2020 MLK HUMANITARIAN AWARD HONOREES LEAD BY EXAMPLE Chosen for their leadership and commitment to social justice, Brianca Spells ’20 and Dr. Melissa Barfield, associate professor of sociology, each received the 2020 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Humanitarian Award on Jan. 24. Recipients demonstrate care and compassion, understanding and tolerance, humanitarian principles and ideals,
from 1997 to 2004, and again as senior vice president since 2009. She was responsible for the management and oversight of development, alumni and parent relations; communications and marketing; the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts; the chaplain and director of church relations; and other key responsibilities. She worked closely with Alumni Board members, reunion and class giving volunteers, and the Board of Trustees. As a senior-level administrator, she participated in decisionmaking affecting every facet of the university. She led two successful
and service.
fundraising campaigns—"Heritage, Heart
Brianca served as president of the Black Student Organization; chaplain and
for McKendree University—totaling more
parliamentarian of the ELITE chapter of the National Association of Colored
than $70 million.
and Hope” and FORWARD: The Campaign
Women’s Club; a manager for the Bearcats women’s basketball team; and a member of the New Student Orientation and First-Year Orientation staff. Melissa serves on the Social Justice Committee and assists in Safe Zone training to promote an inclusive campus environment. She is a mentor and a passionate advocate for students regardless of gender, race or sexual orientation. In the community, she chairs a regional CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) board dealing with foster care.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
31
OUR M c K e n d r e e Associate Faculty Members Honored The Associate Faculty Awards for Excellence in Teaching recognize the commitment, academic excellence, outstanding teaching and engagement of two part-time professors in psychology and special education. Dr. Renee Krebel ’01 graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Since 2014, she has been essential to the success of the online psychology program, using technology effectively to teach the same content as in the
SAME AEC, DIFFERENT FORMAT IN 2020 With the shift to distance learning and suspension of on-campus events in mid-March, the seventh annual Academic Excellence Celebration moved to an electronic format, rebranded as the “eAEC” on April 23. Students demonstrated not only their research and creativity but also their resilience and flexibility, as they adjusted their AEC presentations and recorded them for online viewing. Some classmates collaborated on group projects across time zones and hundreds or thousands of miles. Fifty-three presentations including honors theses, research posters and art exhibits were uploaded to the webpage mckendree.edu/McKAEC2020. Website analytics show hundreds of viewers in at least 25 states and seven countries have watched eAEC presentations.
traditional classroom courses. The psychology and biopsychology programs now have more than 200 students, many of whom take an online class. Renee provides her online students with a caring, personalized experience and an understanding of their needs. She developed a military psychology course using her counseling education and experiences as a counselor on base. She also teaches research methods, cross-cultural psychology, abnormal psychology, clinical and counseling psychology, psychological statistics, and senior thesis. Renee pushes students to do their best and gives frequent and thoughtprovoking feedback that allows for their growth. She consistently earns high evaluations from her students, who remark on her integrity, kindness and commitment. They say she is knowledgeable, accessible, helpful, encouraging, supportive and “goes the extra mile.” Dr. Jeannine Butler has taught in the School of Education since 2006, primarily in the special education instruction graduate program. She has taught both in the classroom and online; developed the Strategies and Interventions to Assist Struggling Readers course; and co-developed Adapting the Curriculum for Students with Special Needs, with Dr. Karee Nasser. She also supervises teacher candidates in the field during the summer. Jeannine’s dedication to teaching and her commitment to student success has been evident. In their evaluations, students have noted she is well prepared, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable about the subject matter. They remarked on her meaningful project assignments, and the ability to bring valuable experience as a special educator into the University classroom. A full-time teacher for the Triad Consolidated Community School District, she has recruited McKendree students to tutor in the Learning Café she established for middle school students who struggle in math, reading or writing. At the state level, she received a 2020 Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching in Illinois.
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OUR M c K e n d r e e EMILY BERRY IS CHOSEN FOR TECHNOS INTERNATIONAL PRIZE, LINCOLN LAUREATE
The Technos Prize, funded by the continued generosity of the Tanaka Ikuekai Educational Trust, is given each spring to a graduating senior chosen by the faculty. Emily easily met the award’s two criteria: outstanding academic performance and a commitment to international understanding. She excelled in her Spanish courses and served as a Spanish tutor. She has traveled to Guatemala on a mission trip, to Cuba on an educational trip with other McKendree students, to Spain for study abroad, and to Japan for a twoweek summer program hosted by Technos International College. She also has visited Portugal, Italy, Morocco, England and Ireland.
A bright, adventurous 2020 graduate with a desire to learn, to discover the world and to help others, is the University’s Lincoln Laureate and the Technos International Prize recipient. Emily Berry ’20 double majored in psychology and Spanish, earning her degree in December 2019. In November, she was chosen for the state’s highest student honor, the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, and was named a Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois for her high academic achievement. Each year an outstanding senior from each Illinois four-year college
“I wouldn’t have been able to achieve traveling abroad, double majors, and jobs without the support from faculty and friends,” said Emily. “My professors believed in me and they pushed me to do my best. I cannot thank them enough for all I have learned from them. This recognition gives me high hopes towards my future career and my endless desire to learn about the world while helping others.”
and university is honored for their leadership, service and excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities.
This spring and summer, she volunteered with VISTA AmeriCorps’ City Year program in Miami, working online
Responsible, engaged, optimistic and empathetic,
to tutor, mentor and help high school students prepare
Emily was described by her professors as an intellectually
for college. In August, she started another AmeriCorps
curious, socially conscious student and an influential role
position in San Francisco, Calif., working through the Bay
model for her peers. She was a tutor and advisor in the
Area Youth Agency Consortium (BAYAC).
Student Success and Advising Center, an International Studies Abroad ambassador, and a member of Kappa
Emily’s future is bright and her options are many. She
Sigma Tau, Campus Activities Board, the Lyn Huxford
would like to teach English in Spain in the future and may
Center for Community Service, Psi Chi and Pi Gamma
reapply to the highly competitive Fulbright program in
Mu honor societies. In her hometown of O’Fallon, Ill., she
Mexico for 2021-2022, having advanced to the semifinals
worked as a camp counselor and supervisor for children’s
this year. Eventually, she wants to pursue a doctoral
recreational activities. She helped organize fundraising
degree in clinical or school psychology and work with
events for hospitalized children and persons living with
Latinx youth.
Alzheimer’s disease.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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OUR M c K e n d r e e
MCKENDREE AMONG BEST COLLEGES FOR STUDENT VOTING IN 2020
In June, President Dan Dobbins ’81 joined more than 160 college presidents and chancellors in committing to full student voter registration and participation in elections
Washington Monthly has named McKendree to its “Best
through the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. Dr. Ann
Colleges for Student Voting 2020” list.
Collins, professor of political science, and Jennifer Funk,
The listed schools have shown a repeated commitment
lead McKendree's ALL IN committee and nonpartisan voter
M.A.Ed. ’14, assistant professor and public services librarian, to increasing student voting, by submitting McKendree's
engagement activities on campus. In 2019, McKendree
ALL IN committee action plan in 2018 and 2020; signing
received a Silver Seal award for achieving a student voting
up to receive the National Study of Learning, Voting, and
rate between 30 and 39 percent.
Engagement (NSLVE) data about their campus voter registration and turnout rates; and making their 2016 and 2018 NSLVE data available to the public.
History Professor’s New Book Examines Friendly Enemies in the Civil War
cup of coffee or a pinch of tobacco during a sleepless shift on duty, or an enemy newspaper with information about the war. Most significantly, they worked together to arrange
A new book by Dr. Lauren
ceasefires and truces to limit the relentless fire and
Thompson, assistant professor
bloodshed in the trenches.
of history and the director of ethnic and gender studies,
Lauren argues that these interactions represented soldiers’
provides an in-depth analysis
efforts to fight the war on their own terms. Her study
of the fraternization that
reveals that despite different commanders, terrain, and
commonly took place among
outcomes on the battlefield, a common thread emerges:
Union and Confederate soldiers
soldiers constructed a space to lessen hostilities and make
during the bloodiest war in
their daily lives more manageable.
U.S. history. “Friendly Enemies:
Soldier Fraternization
“Fraternization allowed men to escape their situation briefly
Throughout the American Civil
and did not carry the stigma of cowardice,” she said. “They
War” represents a decade of
coped by carving out spaces of fraternity, reprieve and
research and writing. Lauren
survival.”
read more than 500 soldiers’ letters and diaries to understand why soldiers risked their standing in the
The book is available in hardcover and electronically from
military, and perhaps their lives, to interact with the enemy.
the University of Nebraska Press and Amazon.
Through her research, she observes that when men were surrounded by disease and death, some sought a warm
ALUMNI DIRECTORY PROJECT The McKendree University Alumni Association launched
Thompson, M.A.Ed. ’17, director of alumni and parent relations. “Up-to-date information is vital for us to connect
an alumni data verification project in August to begin the
alumni with former classmates and friends, and we want to
process of updating its directory, which has not been done
be sure that alumni receive the latest news and invitations
for twelve years.
to our events."
The Alumni Relations Office has partnered with Publishing
Your participation is vital to the success of this project!
Concepts Inc. (PCI), a nationally recognized publishing firm,
34
to reach out to McKendree alumni near and far, said Dr. PJ
www.mckendree.edu
OUR M c K e n d r e e Music Education Professor Receives Grandy Award The Alumni Association chose Dr. Jennifer ModerBell, associate professor of music education, for its
AWARD FOR PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE GOES TO JENNIFER MILLER
39th annual Grandy Faculty Award. It recognizes
Jennifer (Lerch)
commitment to students, the ideals promoted by
Miller ’04, M.A.Ed.
the University and participation in the community
’07 puts her heart
it serves.
and soul into
Alumni Association President Ryan Furniss ’00
assistant dean
described her as “a dynamic and inspiring teacher”
for student
her role as the
known for her “delightful disposition, strong sense of collegiality and unwavering can-do spirit.”
success and co-coordinator of the University 101 program. Whether
A faculty member since 2013, Jennifer coordinates the music education
easing a student’s transition into college,
academic program, directs the Concert Band and Wind Ensemble, supports
guiding them along a successful path,
students in their co-curricular activities, and promotes their talent and
or eventually coordinating the
accomplishments. She has also created numerous on and off-campus
commencement ceremony, Jenni
recruiting events to help prospective students learn about and experience
influences their McKendree experience.
what McKendree offers.
Nursing Professor is UMC Exemplary Teacher of the Year Dr. Richelle Rennegarbe ’92, professor and chairperson of the Division of Nursing, is the 2020 United Methodist Exemplary Teacher of the Year, awarded by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church. Criteria include excellence in teaching, civility and concern for students and colleagues, commitment to valuecentered education, and service to students, the institution and the community. Richelle began teaching on campus in 1996, before taking the position of chief nursing officer and chief executive officer of Salem Township Hospital in Salem, Ill. In 2009 she returned to lead the University’s Division of Nursing. “She is well-respected in the broader community for her professionalism and ‘can-do’ attitude, establishing new partnerships with hospitals and maintaining healthy relationships with others,” said Dr. Christine Bahr, provost. Students know her as a kind, thoughtful and outstanding professor and mentor who prepares them for leadership positions. As the division chairperson, Richelle has recruited and maintained a substantial number of undergraduate and graduate students. The nursing program’s large enrollment can be attributed in part to moving all face-to-face nursing classes online—a transformation she initiated. Under her leadership, McKendree also established a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Ethical Leadership degree program, which is flourishing under her direction.
The 2020 President’s Award for Professional Excellence recipient “has gone above and beyond the requirements of her position,” said President Daniel Dobbins ’81. The award recognizes leadership, accomplishment, outstanding performance and service to the University. In their nominations, colleagues also mentioned Jenni’s work ethic, compassion and numerous examples of helpfulness to students and colleagues. She supports students’ achievement and cares about their growth both academically and personally, responding to their needs and making herself readily available. She provides food and clothing to students in need and participates in the annual Christmas project to assist local families. Jenni began her McKendree career as a student worker in 2000, while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in sociology. She went to work as the associate registrar for curriculum, then became the director of student success and retention before rising to her current position.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
35
OUR M c K e n d r e e Retiring Faculty Members Bid Farewell
learning, and challenged students to gain a ‘wider’ education rather than a ‘higher’ education,” she said.
Best wishes to three retiring faculty members for whom McKendree became a second family and a way of life.
Through it all, she says she will never forget what it is like
They represent well over 100 years of collective service
to be a part of the McKendree family. “They celebrated
to the University and its broader community. Before the
with me when my fourth child was born, prayed for me
spring semester concluded, each shared a few fond
and my family when one of our sons was severely injured,
memories, parting thoughts and words of wisdom.
grieved with me when my parents and in-laws passed away, and shared numerous milestone life events with
DR. JANICE WIEGMANN,
me,” she said. “That social connection is invaluable. I will
PROFESSOR EMERITA OF
forever cherish my life at McKendree. I hope I at least
NURSING
made a small difference in the lives of a few people; so many people have made a huge difference in mine.”
Dr. Janice Wiegmann began her teaching career at McKendree
DR. KARAN ONSTOTT,
on a half-time contract in 1982.
ASSOCIATE
Nearly 40 years later, she ended
PROFESSOR OF
her time on campus teaching
HEALTH PROMOTION
part-time once again. Her long
AND WELLNESS
history with the University is filled with accomplishments; however, as much as she
It all started when
helped shaped McKendree to what it is today, she believes
Dr. Karan Onstott
that it has left an indelible mark on her as well.
began teaching one class at McKendree in 1994. That grew to two courses, three, and eventually a full-time load. It
Janice was honored with the Emerson Excellence in
was then she knew she had found the place she would
Teaching Award in 2000 and the United Methodist
spend the rest of her career.
Exemplary Teacher of the Year Award in 2010. She not only helped establish McKendree’s Pi Epsilon chapter
In 26 years as a McKendree professor, Karan says one
of Sigma, the International Society of Nursing, but also
of her proudest accomplishments is simply seeing her
initiated the annual Colleges Against Cancer Relay for
countless students succeed in their time on campus and
Life, now in its fifth year.
in their careers beyond. This past spring, she was humbled and surprised to be invited to become a member of Phi
A favorite McKendree memory was serving as faculty
Kappa Phi Honor Society.
representative on the Technos Trip to Japan in 2007. “What an incredible experience!” she said. “In the summer
“I enjoy people,” she said. “It’s great to get to know
of 1987, my family participated in a 4-H student exchange
students and to see them grow into young professionals
program. A 13-year-old boy from Japan lived with us
during their years at McKendree. Regarding the faculty,
for eight weeks. While in Japan through Technos,
there is a lot I will miss; the social interaction, of course,
I reconnected with him, now a successful young adult.
but also learning from them and the stimulation that their
He introduced me to his mother, who so graciously
diverse perspectives offer.”
thanked me for taking care of her son 20 years prior.” Karan has a long list of goals to complete during her Janice also cherishes cultural immersion experiences to
retirement, namely continuing her habit of lifelong learning.
Nicaragua, Cuba, and Israel, which she participated in while
She plans to delve even deeper into health and wellness
at McKendree. In her retirement, she plans more travel,
topics that she loves, such as nutrition and positivity, learn
hoping to visit every state and continent.
to speak Spanish, and brush up on wine. Traveling and helping her husband with event planning and tasks at their
“I'd like to be remembered as someone who was passionate about nursing, committed to teaching and
36
www.mckendree.edu
restaurant are also on her list.
OUR M c K e n d r e e “I think I would like to be remembered as someone who
Contract, Renewal, Promotion and Tenure Committee
worked to help improve the wellbeing of the McKendree
and the Academic Affairs Committee, all while leading the
community and the greater community as well,” she said.
American Association of University Professors as president
As one of her favorite quotes by Henri Nouwen states,
and running the ever-important coffee fund.
“I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come.”
“For me, this place became a way of life,” he said. “McKendree is a place where faculty and students can
DR. DENNIS RYAN,
develop lasting personal relationships. My students are
PROFESSOR EMERITUS OF
always fun. My colleagues are eclectic and terrific.
MATHEMATICS
I adore them.”
Before Dr. Dennis Ryan
In retirement, he plans to complete a couple of book
arrived at McKendree in 1991,
projects, travel with his wife to visit their children in
he taught mathematics at two
Washington, D.C., and, eventually, hike the Canadian
large universities, Minnesota
Rockies and the Andes Mountains.
State and Wright State. “In the beginning [of my time at McKendree], I wondered how students knew my name,”
Dennis hopes he is remembered as “a well-regarded
he said. “The fact that they did startled me. I then realized
teacher, colleague, scholar, and a good citizen of
that these were not the students I dealt with at the big
McKendree.” He recalls an epiphany he experienced
places. I found that I preferred the kids here. I am not an
walking on campus toward Bothwell Chapel. “I was on the
outgoing person, but I have been deeply touched by some
campus of the oldest college in the State of Illinois, where
of the people that I met and taught here.”
had walked McKendreans for almost 200 years,” he said. “It struck me that this great college had for the moment
In 44 years of teaching, Dennis spent almost 30 of them at
entrusted part of its history to me. Remember that
McKendree. He is most proud of his role in the presidential
McKendree, which means its students, staff, faculty, and
search that brought Dr. Jim Dennis to campus and after
the community which supports it, has, for this moment,
that, his involvement in the search for a provost. One year,
given over its life to you. You, too, will go away. Make sure
he not only chaired the Science and Mathematics Division
what you leave behind.”
and the Faculty Affairs Council, but also served on the
HARVARD AWARDS HUTCHINS FELLOWSHIP TO ENGLISH PROFESSOR
Dr. Martha Patterson has also worked on a collection of essays with
The Hutchins Center for African and African American
Henry Louis Gates Jr.,
Research at Harvard University has awarded a Fellowship
a renowned scholar of
to Dr. Martha Patterson, who will continue her research on
African American writing
the influence of African American newspapers on
and director of the
American culture.
Hutchins Center at Harvard University.
During the fall semester, the McKendree English professor will complete her book entitled ”The Harlem Renaissance
to African American studies and American literature more
Weekly.” It examines the work of major and minor African
broadly,” she said.
American writers who published their work serially in popular black newspapers in the 1920s and 1930s.
“Being part of a Hutchins Fellowship community of scholars will offer me an invaluable intellectual
“Given the limited opportunities for black writers in
environment and the time necessary to complete a project
the period and the critical avenue for publication that
that highlights one of the most important vehicles for black
newspapers provided, understanding the literary work in
protest, affirmation, and literary accomplishment—the
these papers will, I hope, provide an important contribution
immensely rich landscape of American black newspapers.”
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
37
OUR M c K e n d r e e
REPORT ON LESS STUDENT DEBT
low-income and black students and what colleges and
McKendree is recognized in the St. Louis Graduates
these students. Senior KeShon Spraggins, a McKendree
Degrees with Less Debt: Postsecondary Strategies that
business management major and honor society student
Enhance Low-income and Black Student Success report,
from St. Louis, appears in the video.
which identifies five St. Louis regional universities that stand out in a statistical model as enrolling significant percentages of low-income and black students and supporting them to graduate with less debt. A video series
universities can do to create a system that supports
St. Louis Graduates also invited McKendree to join the Postsecondary Equity Network, a community network committed to promoting access and success among Black
released with the report focuses on the barriers facing
and low-income college students.
Welcome, Class of 2024
Association president; and Dr. Jennifer Moder-Bell, associate professor of music education and winner of
McKendree welcomed the Class of 2024 to campus, as
the 2020 Grandy Faculty Award, welcomed the new
370 first-year students and 110 transfer students began
students virtually.
fall semester classes on Aug. 17.
Continuing a
First-year and transfer enrollment at McKendree in 2020
longstanding
has increased by approximately 15 percent over last year.
McKendree
Representing 27 states and 21 countries, the Class of 2024
tradition, each
has a collective high school grade point average of 3.4.
new student signed
Eighty-six percent of first-year Bearcats are living on
the Matricula, a
campus this fall, under the university’s Safe Return-to-
document that
Campus Plan.
signifies their enrollment and
In opening convocation videos shown throughout the
becomes an
day on Aug. 15 at the Hettenhausen Center for the
official, permanent
Arts, President Daniel Dobbins; Shelby Benn, Student
University record.
Government Association president; Ryan Furniss, Alumni
SUSTAINED EXCELLENCE IN ASSESSMENT DESIGNATION
Dr. Tami Eggleston, associate provost for institutional effectiveness leads the University’s ambitious, seven-year “Assessment 2.1” efforts. Each year the initiative focuses
McKendree was among 12 colleges and universities
on one of seven student learning outcomes: engagement,
nationwide recognized as 2020 Excellence in
effective communication, personal and social
Assessment (EIA) designees for their commitment to the
responsibility, inquiry and problem solving, discipline-
comprehensive assessment of student learning outcomes
specific competence, diverse perspectives, and lifelong
as a means to drive internal improvement and advance
learning.
student success. Of the 12 institutions, McKendree, Miami Dade College and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
38
“Assessment activities allow us the opportunity to measure
were named “Sustained Excellence Designees” for
and improve what we do in the classroom, in our majors,
maintaining their exemplary assessment efforts over a
and across the entire campus,” said Tami. “We have many
five-year period. The EIA program is sponsored by NILOA,
faculty and staff committed to continuous improvement
VSA Analytics, and the Association of American Colleges &
including Dr. Guy Boysen chairing the SLATE committee
Universities and endorsed by the Council of Independent
and Dr. Alan Alewine leading efforts to revise our general
Colleges.
education program.”
www.mckendree.edu
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d
NATIONAL CHAMPIONS: WOMEN’S WRESTLING The No. 1 ranked women’s wrestling team went an undefeated 4-0 on the season and dominated the mat during tournament competitions. They won their second consecutive National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) MultiDivision National Dual Meet Championship title in January and closed out the season with a national championship team title at the Cliff Keen
with one pin and technical fall victory
Multi-Division National Dual Meet
and took the final match in a 3-1 decision.
Championships.
Her overall season record was 19-3. She placed first in the Simon Fraser University Open, first at the Bearcat
national tournament with two technical
Open, third at the Bill Farrell Memorial
fall victories and took the final match in
International Open and went
a 4-2 decision. Her overall season record
1-1 in matches at the NWCA Multi-
was 18-10. She placed second at the
Division National Dual Meet
Simon Frasier University Open, third at
Championships. She also finished fourth
the Missouri Valley Open, and went 2-1
at the 2019 Senior Nationals and Trials
in matches at the NWCA Multi-Division
Qualifier and qualified for the Olympic
National Dual Meet Championships.
Team Trials (for the second time). No. 1 ranked first-year Emma Bruntil
National Collegiate Women’s Wrestling
(136-lb) went 4-0 at the national
Championship (NCWWC) in March.
tournament with three technical fall victories. Her overall season record was
The Bearcats had 13 wrestlers receive
20-3. She placed first at the Simon Fraser
WCWC All-American status and five
University Open, first at the Missouri
were crowned National Champions,
Valley Open, fourth at the Bill Farrell
as follows:
Memorial International Open, and first at the NWCA Multi-Division National Dual
No.1 ranked sophomore Sydnee Kimber (190-lb) went 3-0 at the national
2020 WCWC National Champions,
tournament with two pins and one
l. to r.: Sydnee Kimber, Alexandria
technical fall victory, one coming in the
Glaudé, Pauline Granados, Alexia
final match. Her overall season record
Ward and Emma Bruntil.
was 19-1. She placed first at the Bearcat Open, first at the North Central Invitational, second at the Simon Fraser University Open, second at the Missouri Valley Open, and first at the NWCA Multi-Division National Dual Meet Championships. No. 2 ranked Alexandria Glaudé ’20 (155lb) went 4-0 at the national tournament
Alexia Ward ’20 (130-lb) went 5-0 at the
Meet Championship. She also won the national championship title at the 2019 Senior Nationals and Trials Qualifier and qualified for the Olympic Team Trials.
No. 2 ranked first-year Pauline Granados
Other All-Americans included: Andrea
(101-lb) went 3-0 at the national
Sennett '20 (171-lb); juniors Kori Bullock
tournament with one technical fall
(171-lb), Theresa Rankin (123-lb) and
victory and took the final match in a 5-1
Natalie Reyna (109-lb); sophomores
decision. Her overall season record was
Joye Levendusky (155-lb) and Felicity
18-2. She placed first at the Dr. Bob
Taylor (116-lb); and first-years Alara Boyd
Kellogg Women’s Open, first at the North
(143-lb) and Payton Stroud (123-lb).
Central Invitational, fourth at the Missouri Valley Open, and first at the NWCA McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
39
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d
FOR SENIOR MVPS, PANDEMIC ABRUPTLY ENDS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP HOPES
national championship after qualifying
Meanwhile,
in six events, and finishing in the top four
180 miles
in the 100 butterfly, 200 freestyle relay
south in
and 400 medley relay preliminaries in
Birmingham,
the morning.
Ala., fivetime track
by Krysti Connelly, Executive Director for
"After realizing Nationals was done,
Communications and Marketing
I was sad that my swimming career
American
was ending, and crushed that my only
Tsitsi
When McKendree students left for spring break, seniors on seven athletic teams were preparing for their last shot at a
and field All-
chance to help the team win was over, too," said the 13-time All-American.
Mahachi ’20, from Harare, Zimbabwe, was warming up for her third consecutive NCAA
national championship in their respective
“I dedicated a lot of time practicing to
winter sports. A week later, on March 12,
Division II Indoor Track and Field
help this team achieve the greatest
everything changed. The spread of
Championships. In 2018 and 2019, she
potential and get rewarded as the best
COVID-19 prompted the National
narrowly missed the finals with ninth-
swimming team in D2. The only thing
Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA),
place qualifier finishes in the 4x400m
that could stop us was the deadly virus.
American Collegiate Hockey Association
relay and triple jump, respectively.
I am certain that this obstacle will not
(ACHA) and U.S. Bowling Congress
bring us down and we will come back
(USBC) to cancel championship
stronger than ever and win the national
tournaments. The University moved to
cancellation of the tournament, we were
title next year.”
left utterly speechless,” said Head Track
remote learning and students were sent
“When the email came about the
and Field Coach Agne Eggerth. “It was
home to socially isolate for the rest of
One of
the semester. Athletes were shocked,
especially hard for Tsitsi, as she had
the first
devastated and heartbroken to learn their
been to the championships before, but
swimmers
careers had come to an end because of
this year she was ready to fight for the
to commit
coronavirus concerns.
spot on the podium and this was her
to the team
last indoor season.”
four years The NCAA’s decision hit the men’s
ago, Milica
swimming team especially hard. Having
“I was in shock and was hoping she
Sostarec ’20,
already competed during the first
(Coach Eggerth) would say it was all a
of Subotica,
two days of the NCAA Division II
joke in a couple of minutes,” said Tsitsi.
Serbia, was
“I had been struggling to jump a distance
Championships in Geneva, Ohio, and
fortunate to swim in both the 50
after two championship performances
that would put me in the top 16
freestyle and 200 freestyle relay prior
(first ever individual and relay wins in
nationally because of a back injury. It
to the tournament cancellation, but that
program history), the men’s team was
also made me sad for weeks when they
did not lessen the pain.
canceled the outdoor season because
“At first I felt confusion because it didn't
and it was gonna be a good one."
sitting in the top spot going into the finals on day two.
the team and I had worked really hard make any sense to me that they let us
For Matija
compete for two days and then suddenly
Pucarevic
In Sioux
cancelled everything,” she said. "After
’20, from
Falls, S.D.,
a few minutes, I felt disappointment,
Belgrade,
the top-
sadness and anger. For most of our
Serbia, this
seeded
seniors, including myself, this was the
year was his
wrestler at
last competition in our swimming career
best chance
165-pounds
that we worked so hard for and to finish
to win an
Nick Foster
in this way was devastating.”
’20, from
individual and team
40
www.mckendree.edu
Belleville, Ill., was on a
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d mission to win his first National wrestling
his second consecutive Intercollegiate
title after finishing second at the 2019
Singles Championship spot.
us—so much. To see the pain in her words and then seeing the pain in her
NCAA Championships. The three-time
face made everything feel real.”
All-American had a 26-1 season record
“My emotions didn’t really take a toll on
and won the Super Region IV title in
me when I found out we weren’t going to
2020.
be able to compete in the postseason,”
learned about the ACHA Division I
said Charlie. “A part of me hoped that
National Championship cancellation
The Bearcat women’s hockey team
“I was pretty upset knowing how hard
they would reschedule, and the other
from Head Coach Derek Pallardy. “I told
my teammates and I worked this year
part just knew it wasn’t going to happen,
them how proud I was of them for
in order to get to where we were,” said
but it didn’t affect me as bad as it did to
accomplishing one of our biggest goals
Nick. “We were in the running to win our
others. This wasn’t the end of the world
this year, but even more proud of how
first national team title, and I was on my
for me and I was okay with that.”
they did it,” he said.
way to winning an individual title. We were all stripped of our dreams by this
The No. 1-ranked team in the country,
pandemic. Knowing all the hard work
the women’s bowling squad is not new
Hallemann
and dedication we put into this year to
to the national scene. Led by six seniors,
’20, from
fulfill our dreams, and that it was being
they have been very successful over
Ballwin, Mo.,
taken away from us without the ability of
the past four years winning the 2017
was the first
fighting for it was just miserable. Seeing
NCAA National Championship and
athlete to
my teammates break down in disbelief
Intercollegiate Team Championship
commit to
was traumatizing; I wouldn’t wish this
(ITC) titles and finishing in second place
the women’s
upon any athlete. I was in disbelief.
at the ITC in 2018 and 2019.
hockey
Chase
program
However, that didn’t last long because I came to reality that life has to go on.
The reigning Intercollegiate Singles
in 2016. She was excited about returning
I dwelled on it for about three days, then
Champion
to the ACHA Division I National
I was back to reality. My grind never
Breanna
Championships, after losing in the first
really stops.”
Clemmer ’21,
round in 2019. In only its fourth year,
from Clover,
the team had qualified for the national
Back in Lebanon, the men’s and women’s
S.C., was
championships twice.
bowling team were preparing for the
overcome
USBC Intercollegiate Qualifier in Addison,
by feelings
“When Coach Derek told us that our
Ill. The top four teams and four to six
of
season was over, and for us seniors that
individual bowlers would earn a spot in
uncertainty
our careers were over, my heart just
the USBC Intercollegiate Championship
and loss.
sunk,” said Chase. “It was extremely upsetting especially since seven other
field in April. The men’s team, which had eight seniors, was hungry for a second
“My heart was broken for the team and
National Championship berth, after
to work so hard and to have it get cut
without even knowing it. I think that it
getting a taste in 2018.
short was so hurtful,” she said. “Getting
made it even worse that we were on
the news from Coach was a moment I
spring break when we found out so we
The No. 2-
will never forget. Shannon (O’Keefe)
couldn't even be together to support
ranked
cares for her ‘children’—what she calls
each other in the heartbreak.”
seniors and I played our last game
bowler in the country, Charlie Reid ’20, from San Antonio, Texas, was hoping to qualify for
BEARCATS IN THE NEWS A special sports feature entitled "McKendree's Run to Banner Year in Sports Cut Short," was published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on May 21, 2020. Written by Stu Durando, the article is reposted with permission at www.mckendree.edu/sportsfeature
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
41
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d
SCHOOL OF THE YEAR: BASS FISHING
SEASON HIGHLIGHTS
finish in second place in the Premier
Basketball
team divisions. The competitive dance
Small Coed and Premier Super Coed team finished in third place in the Dance
Bryson Bultman was named GLVC
Team Open division.
Bowling
Freshman of
Senior
the Year. He
Breanna
was the
Clemmer,
team leader
GLVC Bowler
in rebounds The Bearcat bass fishing team captured their second straight Association of Collegiate Anglers School of the
Kohrmann ’20 was
by Bass Pro Shops on Pickwick Lake in
named the
Florence, Ala. on June 10-11. The team
won the Illinois Bass Nation State Championship at Kinkaid Lake in November, the Bearcats fourth consecutive state championship title. Andrew Althoff ’20 and junior Ethan Jones won the 250 Team Bassmaster College Open on Smith Lake in February and qualified for the Bassmaster Classic in early March, where they weighed in three bass for 9 lbs., 1 oz. and placed ninth overall.
She posted a league-best 220.7 average. Taylor Bailey ’20 was named the
the Year.
including junior Trevor McKinney and
four tournament wins. Trevor and Blake
Division II/III Player of the Year Award.
Athlete of
tournament with top-20 finishes,
had 32 top-ten finishes, which included
Tenpin Coaches Association (NTCA)
Scholar
McKendree duos capped off the
for three National Championships and
National
GLVC
won the title by 1,000 points. Two
This season, McKendree qualified
consecutive Logan
Bass Fishing Championship presented
sophomore Nate Doty in 18th place.
fourth
on the season.
performance at the 2020 Collegiate
place and first-year Bailey Bleser and
won her
with 158 total rebounds and 84 assists
Year championship, with a strong
sophomore Blake Jackson in ninth
of the Year,
and assists
GLVC
He finished
Bowling
his academic career with a 3.882 grade-
Scholar
point average.
Athlete of the Year.
Junior point guard Callie Pohlman was the McKendree women's GLVC James R. Spalding Sportsmanship honoree. She started all 82 games during her playing career and led the team with 85 assists this season. Guard Madison Hart ’20 was named to the National Strength and Conditioning Association All-American Team.
She finished her academic career with a 3.706 gradepoint average. Breanna and Taylor were named to the NTCA All-American first team, along with sophomore honorable mention awardee Hope Gramly. National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA) All-Americans included Breanna (second
The women's basketball team was
team), Taylor (honorable mention),
named to the Women's Basketball
Charlie Reid ’20 (first team), Bryan
Coaches Association Academic Top 25
Hahlen ’20 (second team), and junior
Honor Roll, by posting a cumulative
Andrew Orf (honorable mention).
3.714 GPA.
Cheerleading & Competitive Dance
The women's bowling team was named a NTCA All-Academic Team, with a combined 3.546 grade-point average for both semesters. Taylor, Breanna,
42
www.mckendree.edu
At the 2020 University World Cup, the
and nine teammates earned individual
cheerleading program had two squads
All-Academic NTCA honors, including
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d Golf
Valuable Player. He led the team to its
Isabella Correa, Britaney Myers and
Junior Will Postlethwaite was named to
MCH Tournament title. He put up 32
McKenzie Smith; and first-years
the NCAA Division II PING All-Midwest
goals and 18 assists this season.
Rebecca Hagerman, Maranda Pattison
Region team by the Golf Coaches
and Tyme Sampson.
Association of America.
Brianna Erdmann ’20, Shannon Grimm ’20 and Alyssa Koston ’20; juniors
first ACHA Division I season title and
For the second consecutive year, the women’s hockey team advanced to the
Additionally, eleven women’s and men's
The women's golf team earned a
ACHA Division I National Tournament..
bowlers received NCBCA Academic All-
Women's Golf Coaches Association
The team also won the ACHA Division I
American nods. Taylor, Isabella, Britany,
Team GPA Award, by posting a
Community Service Award.
Hope, Rebecca and Maranda, were
cumulative 3.663 GPA..
joined by Eli Denmead ’20; junior Dylan Zimmerman; sophomores Benjy
Dominic and fourteen other men’s and
Indoor Track and Field
women’s players earned ACHA DI Academic All-American honors, including
Mailloux and Zachary Odum; and first-
Alyssa Albee ’20, Jana Garrow ’20,
year Tyler Grafton.
Chase Hallemann ’20, Callie Hoadley
Football
’20, Delayne Ivanowski ’20, Allison Sauvola ’20 and Michael Weedman ’20; Quarterback
and juniors Aleksejs Ivansenko, Elia
Turner
Burbidge, Laurynn Davey, Oliver
Pullen was
Jönsson, Shayne Pluto, Daniel
named the
Nordlander and Jacob Scrum.
GLVC
Soccer
Freshman
Laila Graham and Tsitsi Mahachi ’20
of the Year.
qualified for the NCAA Division II Indoor
He threw 24
Track & Field National Championships
Midfielder
touchdown
and were named to the All-American
Karson
passes and completed 169 pass
first team. The GLVC Women’s Indoor
Huels was
attempts for 2,407 yards.
Track & Field Freshman of the Year,
named the
Laila won the high jump at the GLVC
GLVC
Championships. Tsitsi was named the
Freshman
Special
GLVC Women’s Indoor Track & Field
of the Year.
Teams
Athlete of the Year after winning the
The GLVC
He started
Player of the
triple jump at the GLVC Championships.
all 17 games for the Bearcats and tallied
Year, wide
She was also named to the National
a pair of assists.
receiver
Strength and Conditioning Association
Matt Cole
All-American Team.
Goalkeeper Zoe Brochu
’20 was named to
Hockey
’20 was named the
the D2Football.com All-American first team and the National Strength and
Forward
GLVC
Conditioning Association All-American
Dominic
Scholar
Team. For his career, he set program
Naas ’20 was
Athlete and
records with 1,618 receiving yards and 17
named the
Defensive
touchdowns. In May, Matt signed a free
Midwest
agent contract with the NFL’s Miami
Collegiate
Year. She registered a league-best .888
Dolphins and recently earned a spot on
Hockey
save percentage after making 71 saves
the team's practice squad.
Association
and allowing nine goals.
Player of the
(MCH) Most
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
43
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d
COACHES CORNER
Both the men’s and women’s soccer
pool record to win gold in the 200-
teams earned their regular season titles
4 Women’s Soccer Head Coach Tim
medley relay at nationals.
and advanced to the second round of
Strange was inducted into the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame in October. Tim has coached the women’s squad since 1999 and led them to nine national tournament appearances between NAIA and NCAA. He also coached the men’s team from 1994-2011.
the NCAA Tournament. Zoe, along with
Fabio Dalu,
Madyson Mossman ’20 and junior James
GLVC Men’s
Stone earned United Soccer Coaches
Freshman of
All-American second and third team
the Year,
honors respectively.
won gold in the 1000
Swimming
freestyle
4 Men’s Water Polo Head Coach Colleen
Sydney Rey
Lischwe was honored with the Sandy
’20 received
of 8:59.50 and set a new pool record at nationals.
Nitta Distinguished Coaching Award from
the Elite 90
USA Water Polo.
Award for
Fifteen men’s and women’s swimmers
4 Women’s Wrestling Head Coach
having the
earned 47 College Swimming Coaches
highest
Association of America (CSCAA) All-
cumulative
American nods. Gregg, Xander, John,
grade-point
Davante, Fabio and Sydney were joined
Sam Schmitz was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association NCAA Coach of the Year and Women's Collegiate Wrestling Coalition Coach of the Year. 4 Women’s Bowling Head Coach Shannon O’Keefe was named the
average of all swimmers participating
by Meredith Geyer ’20, Luca Simonetti ’20, Matija Pucarevic ’20 and Milica
at the NCAA Division II National
Sostarec ’20; juniors Throstur Bjarnason
Championships. She earned a perfect
and Victoria Sananikone; sophomores
4.0 GPA over her academic career.
National Tenpin Coaches Association
Noah Javens and Abigail Rumpp; and first-year Caleb Law.
Division II/III National Coach of the
The GLVC
Year and the GLVC Coach of the Year.
Swimmer
Both the men’s and women's teams
4 Men’s Hockey Head Coach Garry
of the Year,
earned the 2020 GLVC James R.
Henson was named Midwest College Hockey Division I Coach of the Year.
sophomore
Spalding Sportsmanship team award and
Gregg
the CSCAA Scholar All-America team
4 Men’s Golf Head Coach Mikal Guffey
Lichinsky,
distinction for the spring semester, with
finished
was named GLVC Coach of the Year.
cumulative grade-point averages of 3.80
second in
4 Men’s Soccer Head Coach Scott
and 3.57 respectively. Gregg, Xander,
the 50
John, Fabio, Davante, Sydney, Meredith,
Gyllenborg was named GLVC Coach
freestyle at nationals.
Noah, Matija, Abigail, Luca, Victoria and
of the Year.
Milica earned Scholar All-America
4 Men’s Swimming Head Coach Jimmy
and sophomores Hallie Dixon, Lilia de
honors, along with junior Caitlyn Canadi;
Tierney was named GLVC Coach of the
Oliveira Pelaez, Charlie Fraser-Allen and
Year.
Garrett Schrock.
4 Men’s Wresting Head Coach James
Powerlifting
Kisgen was named GLVC Coach of the Year.
Emmet Metzger ’20 (59kg) and
4 Men’s Club Water Polo Head Coach
44
with a time
sophomore Caleb Rankin (teen 120+kg)
Zach Roper was named the Collegiate
Gregg, along with junior Alexander
both earned second place finishes at
Water Polo Association Missouri Valley
“Xander” Skinner, first-year John Heaphy
the USA Powerlifting Raw Nationals.
Coach of the Year.
and first-year Davante Carey, broke the
www.mckendree.edu
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d Wrestling
Nick Foster ’20 was the McKendree men’s GLVC James R. Spalding
Tennis
No. 1 ranked
Sportsmanship awardee. He wrapped up
Both the women’s and men’s tennis
junior Ryan
his wrestling career with a 129-60 record.
squads earned the Intercollegiate Tennis
won the
Ryan and Nick were named NCAA
Team Award with cumulative team
NCAA
Division II All-Americans, along with
grade-point averages of 3.51 and 3.57
Division II
Caleb Gossett ’20, Marcus Povlick ’20
respectively.
Award
and Nate Smalling ’20; juniors Juwan
Association (ITA) Division II All-Academic
Vasbinder
for Most
Edmond and Daniel Filipek; and
Five men received the ITA Scholar-
Technical
sophomore Joshua Jones. Nick, Caleb,
Athlete Award, including sophomore
Falls and was named GLVC Wrestler of
Marcus and Nate were named to the
Vishnu Prasad, and first-years Luis
the Year. He finished the season with a
NWCA Division II Scholar All-American
Alvear, Rafael Kayo, Jaydn Richardson
30-1 record at 197-lbs. He led the team
squad, along with Alexia Ward ’20 and
and Alvaro Alonso Sanchez.
to the NCAA Division II Super IV Region
Alexandria Glaudé ’20; junior Natalie
Wrestling Championship and GLVC
Reyna; sophomores Sydnee Kimber,
Championship titles and a second-place
Robbie Snellenberger, and Felicity
finish at the 2020 NWCA Multi-Division
Taylor; and first-years Emma Bruntil,
National Dual Meet Championships.
Pauline Granados and Payton Stroud.
SCOTT CUMMINGS EARNS COSIDA 25-YEAR AWARD
He spent four months recovering in the
SID's is so important because it's the
hospital and at home, as the surgery was
best way to grow in the profession.
by Chris Mitchell ’99 (This article was originally published on the COSIDA website and has been revised for the magazine.) Sports Information Director Scott Cummings has faced many challenges in his 25-plus years in the industry. In the summer of 2019, he faced his biggest challenge yet. Scott was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, a cancer at the base of his tongue. He continued to work through the fall, and had surgery to remove the cancer on December 2. “It was a shock, and we had to prepare a way for the office to be covered as I knew my surgery would be right after Thanksgiving,” he said. “Fortunately, I had four graduate assistants on staff, plus my daughter Hailey and other SIDs in the area, along with a great support staff in place that eased my mind.”
more extensive than planned. Do you have a favorite moment that Scott received his CoSIDA 25-Year
sticks out in your career?
Award for his long-time commitment and
My favorite memory was in 2004 when
service to the athletic communications
men’s basketball coach Harry Statham
profession. He began his 22nd year at
was chasing career win 880
McKendree this fall.
(to surpass Dean Smith for the all-time wins record). That was almost a full
What has kept you in the business 25+
month of nonstop contact with media
years?
of all levels, national, regional and local.
My genuine love for sports for one, along
I had to arrange for an AP photographer
with the purpose of telling the story of
to follow us in the days leading up to
our student-athletes. There is never one
victory 880, among other things. I felt like
day that is the same as the next, and that
we were a well-oiled machine when the
always keeps me on my toes.
night finally came. All press conferences, interviews and photo requests were
What have your enjoyed most about
handled as smoothly as they could go.
being a SID?
When I finally sat down to write my
The relationships built with our internal
actual game recap, I started crying
staff, coaches, student-athletes and—
because the magnitude of what we had
to me most importantly—fellow sports
just gone through finally hit me. I relied
information directors. We're all in this
on a lot of folks to help out during that
together, and the camaraderie built with
time, and everyone pitched in to make it
other SID's is extremely important to
a moment I will never forget.
make things "work." The chance to learn new ideas and share things with other McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
45
BEARCATS U n l e a s h e d
INTERIM ATHLETIC DIRECTOR NAMED
Volleyball
team), and Joseph Mahan ’20 (honorable mention).
Both the women’s and men’s volleyball teams earned the United States Marine Corps and American Volleyball Coaches
Anthony Francis
Association Team Academic Award with
was elevated into
cumulative team grade-point averages
the role of Interim
of 3.68 and 3.46 respectively.
Director of Athletics in August 2020. "Anthony has performed at a very high level since his arrival at McKendree," said President Daniel Dobbins ’81. "His understanding of NCAA compliance requirements, experience working with the leadership of the Great Lakes Valley
Water Polo
Brianna earned ACWPC Academic AllAmerican honors, along with sixteen other men’s and women’s players, including Michael Krause ’20 and Marko Vucetic ’20; juniors Ben Brauer and Emily Westlove; sophomores Maddy Bolton, Abigail Burton, Josh Carlson, Aaron Jacobs, Abby Kishimoto, Carley
Three players earned Association
Manuel, Isabella Strimling and Bryce
of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches
Tully; and first-years Tristen Clue, Alivia
(ACWPC) All-American honors, including
Garcia, Alaina Johnson and Lindy
sophomore Matthew Haygood (first
Justice.
team), Brianna Mullalley ’20 (second
Conference and his strong relationships with both our coaches and studentathletes will all serve him well as he takes on this important role at McKendree." He joined the Bearcats' family in May 2017 as the associate director of athletics in charge of compliance. Among his many duties, Anthony is the sponsor for the Bearcats' Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and oversees the daily functions of the strength and conditioning, sports information and game management offices. He also serves on the National Association of Athletics Compliance (NAAC) Reasonable
BRUEGGEMANN TRANSITIONS INTO NEW ROLE Chuck Brueggemann '88, who has served as the Bearcats' director of athletics since July 2012, will be transitioning to a new role. Chuck will continue to serve the University on a part-time basis as a consultant to both the athletic department and the Office of the President.
"We are extremely appreciative of the leadership Chuck has provided and the impressive accomplishments that we have experienced during his tenure as director of athletics at the University," said President Dobbins. "His leadership was key to our successful transition from NAIA membership to competing at the Division II level with teams routinely vying for national championships. He has had a significant impact on the lives of our student-athletes, our coaches and the campus community."
Standards Committee, is a member of the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) and the GLVC Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Anthony earned his bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Alaska-Anchorage and his master's degree in kinesiology-sport management from California Baptist University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education degree in organizational leadership. A national search will be organized and conducted later in this academic year to fill the position on a permanent basis. 46
www.mckendree.edu
NEW ASSISTANT ATHLETIC DIRECTOR HIRED
face to many around the GLVC, she worked as a marketing and promotions assistant at the University of Indianapolis and served as the director of game day operations for the 2020 GLVC Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament. Beth also interned with the GLVC office and
Beth Bowers was
developed valuable insight into
hired as the new
intercollegiate athletics administration
assistant director of athletics and the
and compliance operations. She will
senior woman administrator. A familiar
begin on Aug. 3.
ALUMNI N o t e s
Letter from the Alumni Director
What’s new with you? Share your professional
Greetings Alumni and Friends, I hope that you and your families are safe and well. Thank you for your continued support of McKendree University. Your financial contributions continue to provide resources to enhance the experiences of our current students. Your time and volunteerism to provide students with insight about the world beyond college continue to be priceless. As we navigate this “new normal,” I challenge you to continue to stay connected with us. We are all in this together and we want to be able to keep you informed
accomplishments, such as job changes, promotions and awards, or personal milestones, such as advanced degrees earned, marriages or births. Let us know! Submit a class note to alumni@mckendree.edu and be featured in the next Magazine.
Interested in Volunteering?
as we move McK FORWARD. Keep us informed as you continue to be leaders in
The Alumni Association Board
your areas of expertise so that we can continue to ensure that our students are
sponsors several networking
equipped with the necessary skills to be successful.
opportunities throughout the year for alumni to connect not only with
I encourage you to continue to follow the guidelines outlined by the Centers for
one another but also with students.
Disease Control and your local and state government. Your safety and well-being
If you have a desire to serve your
are important to us. I also would like our alumni of color to know that the Alumni
alma mater, please contact Director
Association stands with you.
of Alumni Relations PJ Thompson at pbthompson@mckendree.edu.
Be Safe, Be Well, Be Inspired. Dr. PJ Thompson, M.A.Ed. '17
Follow Us on Social Media
Director of Alumni Relations.
Alumni and Development staff members paid a Purple Pride visit to nursing program alumni and current students at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in
GET THE LATEST!
O’Fallon, Ill., on Nov. 8. Pictured, from l. to. r., back row: Jessica (Therien) Schomaker ’14, Angie Capps, Lisa Tincher, Becky Ross, Kari (Frizzo) Hart, MSN ’12, DNP ’18, Regina Peterson ’09, MSN ’13, Laura (Thouvenin) Zinck, Melissa
theHett.com
Nichols, Jen Turley-Nash ’01 and Kim Rickhoff; middle row: Erin Manka, Emily (Gaddis) Wilson ’06, Amanda Ernst, MSN ’18, Emily (Meise) Beard ’19 and Courtney Schwartzkopf ’09; front row: Lleyna Gorka ’18, MSN ’20, Eric Dickson ’01, MSN ’09 and Myrna Matthews.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
47
ALUMNI N o t e s 1967
Superintendent of Distinction for the
Ken Dillingham, former basketball coach and teacher at Odin School in Odin, Ill., was inducted into its Hall of Fame.
1976 John “Tracy” Wiecking is the executive director of The Haven of RCS in Pinellas, Fla.
1983
Cathy (Wojtowicz) Karrick is the athletic director at Kaskaskia College in Centralia, Ill. She has worked
there for nearly 36 years and will continue to serve as its director of information. She served as head
Southwest Region of Illinois. After 11 years as the superintendent of Belleville Township High School District 201, he retired this summer.
1992 Jim Meridith, owner of Meridith Funeral
Kathleen Holmes was promoted to vice
Highland News Leader on May 20, 2020.
Missouri Foundation for Health.
Brad Reinhardt, president of the
1998
Logistics & Transportation Association of North America for 2019-2020, became co-president of the St. Louis branch of Rockfarm Supply Chain Solutions in January.
1994
coach in 1999. During that time, she
Air Combat Command at Joint Base San
compiled a coaching record of 131-92
Antonio in Lackland, Texas.
and was named Co-Coach of the Year
She then took on the role as coordinator for the organization, which has raised more than $1 million to help purchase equipment, transportation and training facilities. She was inducted into the College’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2013.
1986 Tom Andres retired as chief after 23 years of service to the Valmeyer, Ill., police department.
1987 Dr. Jeff Dosier was appointed to serve
1995 Malinda (Pruitt) Heuring is a senior consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton. Renee (Busch) Krispin has retired from a 24-year teaching career in the Waterloo, Ill., school district.
1996 Becky Hudzik-Presson is the chief claims Company, S.I. in Chesapeake, Va. Brian O’Neill received the Athletic Director of the Year award for Region 1 in Kentucky. He is the athletic director and head boys’ basketball coach at Carlisle County High School in Bardwell, Ky.
Force by Governor JB Pritzker. He was
Col. Patrick Pritchard was promoted to
also selected as the Illinois Association
vice commander of the 123rd Airlift Wing
of School Administrators 2020
at the Kentucky Air National Guard.
www.mckendree.edu
Kathy (Emke) Rohn, an art teacher at Wolf Branch School in Swansea, Ill., received a 2019 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.
1999 Col. Mary Decker is commander of the 123rd Mission Support Group at the Kentucky Air National Guard. Natalie (Davis) Jablonski is the director of communications for Schnuck Markets Inc. and a 2020 Campaign Co-Chair— Illinois Division for the United Way of Greater St. Louis. Chris Mitchell is the manager of district communications for the Granite City School District in Granite City, Ill. Della (Phelps) Sennett was promoted to chief nursing officer at Scott Memorial Health in Scottsburg, Ind.
officer at Church Mutual Insurance
on the Illinois School Construction Task
48
at Penn State University.
president of strategic initiatives at the
deputy commander Sixteenth Air Force,
assistance for the athletic programs.
Brian Buchkovich is the director and coach of the ability athletics program
Allendale, Ill., was profiled by the
Brigadier Gen. Bradley Pyburn is the
2003 to provide support and financial
nursing at Inova Schar Cancer Institute in Fairfax, Va.
Pocahontas, West Salem, Albion and
from 1988 to 1993, as well as interim
in 1990. She helped form the KCSA in
Nancy Bowles is the vice president of
Homes in Highland, Cisne, Lebanon,
volleyball coach for the Blue Angels
in the Great Rivers Athletic Conference
1997
2000 Brian Lovellette was promoted to assistant commissioner of the Saint Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. Robert Pickerell, senior vice president of commercial banking and market expansion at St. Louis Bank, was named a 2019 Best Banker/Lender by the
St. Louis Small Business Monthly.
ALUMNI N o t e s
Jackie Leemon ’85 and her family attended the McKendree Reunion at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Fla. in March.
Alumni tennis players came out for a tailgating reunion at the 2019 homecoming and stopped by the renovated tennis courts honoring the late Kenneth Frazier ’67. Left to right: Sara Johnson ’08, Jennifer Mennerick ’09, M.A.Ed. ’15, Erin Thoman ’09, M.A.Ed. ’17, A mini-reunion of Bearcats from the 1970s and 80s
former coach Bob Polk, Aaron Jackstadt ’00 and Chris Mitchell ’99.
was held on Feb. 22. Above, l. to r., Keith Bierman, Brenda Baker-Hobbs '83, and Susan (Hines) Wobbe '82. Below, l. to r., Kent Marty ’80, Mike Dinga ’80, Kenneth Meddows ’79 and Don Barton ’78.
Lori Kuper ’20, Maddy Kuper, Susan Harbaugh ’04 and other Bearcats enjoyed St. Louis Blues hockey and an appetizer buffet on the fan deck at the Enterprise Center on Dec. 12, as the Stanley Cup champions outscored the Las Vegas Golden Knights, 4-2.
Former basketball players reunited to cheer on the Bearcats as they defeated the University of Illinois Springfield, 76-65, on Senior Day. Left to right: Rich Stein ’56, Kurt Klein ’79, David Notrott ’64, Stan Elfrink ’81, Dennis Korte ’70, Phil Souders ’77, Paul Funkhouser ’70, Wendell Johnson ’69, Chad Mills ’98, Barry Harris ’78, Brad Weathers ’76, Dave Warnecke ’78, David Ruckman ’13 and Tom Burleyson ’77.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
49
ALUMNI N o t e s 2001
2003
Jared Grebner is the head football coach
Calvin Dye Jr., M.A. ’12 was promoted to
at Metamora Township High School in
the rank of sergeant by the Illinois State
Metamora, Ill.
Police.
Sharon (Huffman) Marquardt was
Mary (Kehrer) Ruettgers is the dean of
inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame
arts & humanities at Southwestern Illinois
at Valmeyer High School in Valmeyer, Ill.,
College in Belleville, Ill.
on Feb. 15.
2004 2002
Dr. Jennifer (Lerch) Miller, M.A.Ed. '07
Dr. Jennifer (Ryan) O'Malley, professor
was appointed to the Illinois Board of
of biology, was named the 2019 Drs.
Higher Education’s statewide Disability
Raymond and Ann Pearson Master
Services Advisory Committee.
Teacher at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield, Ill.
2005 Tabitha Meador is the director of
Kyle Eversgerd is vice president of business development at GameBreaker in Los Angeles, Calif. Nicole (Taylor) Griffing, a physical education and health teacher, was named Teacher of the Year at LaSalle Springs Middle School in Wildwood, Mo. Christy Howell, M.A.Ed., was named the 2018-19 Math Educator of the Year for St. Louis Public Schools. She is a kindergarten teacher at Gateway Elementary School. Jake Janek, M.A.Ed. ’12 is head football coach at Granite City High School in Granite City, Ill..
economic development for the City of Salem, Ill.
Jayne Morrison, M.A.Ed. '18, has joined the staff as a family nurse practioner at
2006
Community Medical Clinic's FastCare in
Scott Amrein, MBA ’13 is the vice
Pana, Ill.
president, process design consultant at Bank of America in Goshen, Ky.
2008
Dr. Sarah Gass, M.A.Ed., Ed.D. ’15 is the
in the Edwardsville Intelligencer’s
principal at Althoff Catholic High School
“Heroes Unmasked” series on May 13,
in Belleville, Ill.
2020. He is the assistant chief of the
Ryan Ahlemeyer, MBA ’10 was featured
Cahokia Fire Protection District. Michael Schneider, MBA ’09 is an assistant U.S. state’s attorney at the U.S.
New Executive Director for Development Whitney (Pankey) Strang ’05 was promoted to executive director for development, alumni and parent relations. Hired in 2011, the former director of major and planned giving is now the chief development officer
of students at the University of Illinois
District of Texas.
Springfield.
Emily (Gaddis) Wilson is the major gift
Kelly (Beiermann) Evans, MBA ’11 was
officer supporting St. Joseph’s Hospitals
promoted to regional vice president at
in Breese and Highland, Ill., and HSHS
Legrand, North America in St. Louis, Mo.
Holy Family Hospital in Greenville, Ill. Stephen J. Moravec Jr., is a probational
2007
officer with the police department in
our great team to keep McKendree
Kristie Baumgartner, M.A.Ed., was
Waterloo, Ill.
moving forward," said Whitney. As an
named superintendent of the Alton
alum, Whitney shares her strong
School District in Alton, Ill.
for the University. "I’m excited to lead
Kendra Sigafoos, M.A.T. ’20 is a seventh grade social studies teacher
family connection to McKendree with her husband Kent Strang ’05, her
Deidra (Thomas) Doerr is a senior
at Greenville Junior High School in
brother Tyler Pankey ’04, and sister-
manager at Kerber, Eck & Braeckel LLP.
Greenville, Ill. She was named a School
in-law Amanda (Davis) Pankey ’12.
50
Jantzen Eddington, MA is the dean
State’s Attorney’s Office for the Western
www.mckendree.edu
of Education Outstanding Master of Arts in Education student for 2019-2020.
ALUMNI N o t e s
Gifts of Time, Talent and Treasure
decided to go back to school at McKendree University for a bachelor’s
McKendree University and its Alumni Association offer a variety of ways to
degree in business administration.
reconnect, serve and give back. These alumni have made—and continue to
Tia chose McKendree because of its
make—a lasting impact on the lives of our students and graduates.
location, the very welcoming staff, and the small-town feel of the institution.
Time: Connie (Holzinger) Elmore ’86
Talent: Judy (Thompson) Harper ’74
As a McKendree business student,
Judy (Thompson) Harper ’74 has been
Connie (Holzinger) Elmore ’86 was
a member of the Alumni Association
president of Gamma Sigma Sigma,
Board since 2018. Living for many
which was the only national service
years in Kentucky, she does not often
sorority on campus at the time. For
get back to the Lebanon campus
the past 20 years, she has continued
where she and her husband Brant ’73
to serve her alma mater as a member
met nearly 60 years ago. She stays
of the Alumni Association Board and
connected with her alma mater through
current chair of the Student
her involvement on the Alumni
Engagement Committee.
Association Student Engagement
Getting around campus was easy for her to navigate and she enjoyed the many niche places to study between classes. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she rolled straight into the master’s in business administration program, which she says was “exceptional”!
Committee. Service has always
When Judy learned that many students
been
come to campus unprepared for
important
winter’s cold weather, she was inspired
to Connie
to help. An avid crocheter, she decided
and she
to use her talent to benefit McKendree
has passed
students in need. The retired mother of
down that
three grown children knits hats for
passion,
students in her spare time.
sons. Zachary, who is a senior, and
“I have
Kyle, who is a member of the Class
been
of 2024.
crocheting for years
“I was very impressed with the ‘Into
and I just
the Streets’ service projects and while
figured I'd
new students were being asked to
use my
volunteer, I wanted to step up as well,”
skills to
Connie said. “I think it is beneficial for
benefit McKendree,” said Judy, who
McKendree students to get involved
partnered with the Student Success
with community volunteerism when
Center to distribute the handmade hats
they can, but also to see Alumni Board
to students in need during the winter.
alums staying involved.” She has
Treasure: BOLD (Bearcats of the
continued to support Zachary’s
Last Decade)
involvement with the Lyn Huxford Center for Community Service by volunteering alongside him.
(Bearcats of the Last Decade). BOLD is a giving society of McKendree’s newest alumni who play a vital role in the success, growth and future of their
and her love for McKendree, to her
members and other fellow McKendree
Tia gives back to McKendree University on a monthly basis and is part of BOLD
alma mater. “I enjoy giving back to McKendree because my professors invested time in me, and I want them to continue doing that for others,” said Tia. Because of her credentials from McKendree, Tia now serves the U.S. Air Force as a civilian contracting officer, writing contracts to buy goods and services. In her free time, she enjoys garage sales, real estate, dining out, long bicycle rides and spending time with her husband and teenage daughters. To learn more about BOLD and
Tia Ragsdale ’15, MBA ’16 retired from
how you can make a difference at
the military in 2013 and, living locally,
McKendree University as a young alum, visit www.mckendree.edu/bold.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
51
ALUMNI N o t e s Weddings
1
4
2
3
5
6
7
9
10
11
8
1 Brittany Zahn ’08 and Ryan Halinski
5 Kelly Lenzini ’13 and Tevin Taylor ‘15
9 Natalie Preis ’14 and Paul Kaestner
were married on April 27, 2019.
were married on Oct. 12, 2019.
were married on Sept. 7, 2019.
2 Jessica Bathon ’09, MBA ’11 and Seth
6 Melissa McKoy ’13 and Brandon Keller
10 Ambrocya Burge ’15 and Coty Owens
Logsdon were married on Nov. 16, 2019.
were married Oct. 12, 2019. Tara Stacey
were married on Feb. 29, 2020.
’14 was in the wedding party. 3 Emily Battas ’12 and Justin Ketrow were married on April 6, 2019.
11 Shay Kellerman ’15 and Hillary 7 Katherine Janney ’14 and Mack Disch
Mansfield were married on Oct. 12, 2019.
were married on Sept. 7. 2019. 4 Melissa Klaus ’12 and Bryant Michael
12 Kati Melton ’15, M.A.Ed. ’18 and
were married on June 9, 2019 in Negril,
8 Katelyn Kamphorst ’14 and Weston
Timothy Hassall were married on June
Jamaica.
Brooks were married on Sept. 21, 2019.
15, 2019. The wedding party included Michelle Parr ’15, Michelle Allen ’15, Layna Seibert ’15 and Austin Rettke ’15.
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ALUMNI N o t e s
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
13 Katherine Baker ’16 and Bradley
17 Bailey Kampwerth ’17 and Blake
21 Jennifer Blumberg ’18 and Eric Rinkel
Bohn ’18 were married on April 20, 2019.
Wilson were married on Oct. 12, 2019.
were married on Nov. 9, 2019. The
14 Brittany Boucher ’16 and Chris Stier
18 McKenna Scatturo ’17 and Brandon
’17 were married on Oct. 5, 2019.
Hokeness ’18 were married on Feb. 16,
wedding party included Taylor Anderson
2020. 15 Karlie Loop ’16 and Bradley
’18 and Chelsea Gossett ’18. 22 Samantha Johnson ’19 and Bailey Drone were married on June 22, 2019.
Spotanski ’15 were married on Nov. 10,
19 Brianne Senger ’17 and Travis
2019.
Wuebbels ’17 were married on Oct. 19, 2019.
16 Haley Ecker ’17 and Logan Priddy were married on Oct. 13, 2019.
20 Marlon van Ham ’18 and Armando Godoy ’18, M.A. ’19 were married on June 8, 2019. McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
53
ALUMNI N o t e s 2009 William Barton, M.A. ’12 is an attorney at SI Elder Law in Marion, Ill. Zachary Faires is an attorney at Baker Sterchi Cowden & Rice in St. Louis, Mo.
Robin Ibel, M.A.Ed., a Title I teacher at Pontiac-William Holliday School in Fairview Heights, Ill., received a 2019 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award. Regina Peterson, MSN ’13 is the chief nursing officer for HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, Ill. Theresa Schmidt is pursuing a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling at John Carroll University. Rebecca (Lindstrom) Wohltmann was promoted to partner at Mathis, Marifian & Richter law firm in Belleville, Ill.
2010 Principal Named Golden Apple Leader
Carrie Bach, MBA ’16 is the controller
2011 Melissa (Schneebeli) Biebel is a school counselor at Collinsville High School in Collinsville, Ill. Chris Dillard, MBA is vice president and controller at Ansira in St. Louis, Mo. Lori Locke was named a School of Education Outstanding Master of Arts in Teaching student for 2019-2020. Erin McGuire was named the School of Nursing’s Outstanding Doctor of Nursing Practice student for 2019-2020. Josh Rathmann is a firefighter and emergency medical services coordinator in Petersburg, Alaska.
at Stupp Bridge Co. in St. Louis, Mo. Patrick Weathers was named a School
Natalie Fry, M.A.Ed. ’12, principal of
Jamie Schrader Buss, M.A.Ed., was
of Education Outstanding Master of Arts
East Side Intermediate School in
named to the Illinois Basketball Coaches
in Education student for 2019-2020.
Harrisburg, Ill., was awarded the 2020
Association Class of 2020 Hall of Fame.
Golden Apple Award for Excellence in
She led Okawville High School to the
Leadership. The first administrator in
state tournament championship title in
the Southern Illinois region to win the
2000. She is the principal of Henry Raab
prestigious award, she has been
Elementary School and Washington
responsible for implementing several
School in Belleville, Ill.
important academic programs during her principalship over the past five
Stephanie Cann, M.A.Ed., Ed.S. ’13 was
years. These initiatives include a
named superintendent of the Granite
third and fourth-grade reading room;
City School District in Granite City, Ill.
hiring an intervention specialist; implementing academic vocabulary
Sheree Davis is an assistant attorney
at each grade level; adopting a
general at the Illinois Attorney General’s
rigorous new English language arts
Office.
2012 Nicole Avise-Rouse, M.A.Ed., teaches junior and senior English at Red Bud High School in Red Bud, Ill. Reggie Cloyd is an associate attorney in the litigation group at Clark Hill PLC in Chicago, Ill. Airika (Tyler) Detmer is an assistant state’s attorney in the felony division of the St. Clair County State’s Attorney’s Office.
curriculum; co-teaching; integrating Chromebooks/Google into
Carrie Friederich, M.A.Ed., a special
classrooms; and educating staff on
education teacher at Union Elementary
adverse childhood experiences and
School in Belleville, Ill., received a 2019
resilience.
Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.
Natalie received a $10,000 cash
Katherine (Porter) Melzer is an associate
reward—half of which will to be
attorney at Sandberg Phoenix in St.
applied to a school project of her
Louis, Mo.
choice—and became a Fellow of the Golden Apple Academy of Educators.
54
www.mckendree.edu
Misty Fritch, M.A.Ed., was named the 2019-20 Challenger Learning Center Outstanding Educator. She is a fifthgrade teacher at New Simpson Hill School in Ozark, Ill.. Samantha Melvin, MSN ’17 is the chief nurse executive at SIH Herrin Hospital in Herrin, Ill.
ALUMNI N o t e s 2013 Josh Hall is a police officer with the Kenai Police Department in Kenai, Alaska. Brandon Hoeflein earned his doctor of philosophy degree from Palo Alto University in Palo Alto, Calif. Tamara Kuper, M.A.Ed., was a 2019-20 “Those Who Excel” awardee and finalist for the Illinois Teacher of the Year. She teaches math, art, career and life skills at Aviston Elementary School in Aviston, Ill.
Jennifer Venable, MBA is the chief
Dawn Schmid is a fourth-grade teacher
financial officer at Washington County
at Dunbar Elementary School in St. Louis,
Hospital and Clinics in Nashville, Ill.
Mo.
Brittany Willis is the head girls'
Brittany Scott, M.A.Ed. ’18 is a graduate
basketball coach at Clayton High School.
programs recruiter at Washington University’s Olin Business School in
Tiffany (Nation) Zobrist M.A.Ed. is
St. Louis, Mo.
the principal of Mulberry Grove Junior/Senior High School in Mulberry
2016
Grove, Ill.
Lauren Apetz is the communications
2015
coordinator at Palmer College of Chiropractic in Port Orange, Fla.
Sean Boehnke earned a master's degree Kali (Teague) Moe is a nurse practitioner
in computer science from Georgia
Evan Bosaw is the band and chorus
at Olean General Hospital's Center for
Institute of Technology.
director at Hancock High School in St. Louis, Mo.
Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Lohgan Bryant, MBA '17 is the assistant
Medicine in Olean, NY. Tiffany Owens, M.A.Ed., a fifth and sixth
athletic director for internal relations at
Courtney Castelli, Ed.D. is the assistant
Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colo.
superintendent of the Columbia School District in Columbia, Ill.
grade special education co-teacher at Joseph Arthur Middle School in O’Fallon,
Christin (Austin) Doyle is an associate
Ill., received a 2019 Emerson Excellence
attorney with HeplerBroom LLC in
Evan Franklin is an associate attorney
in Teaching Award.
Edwardsville, Ill.
at Heavner, Beyers & Mihlar, LLC in
2014
Jessica Greenfield, APRN, FNP-BC, has
St. Louis, Mo.
Kaleigh Admire is a special project associate with Pace Center for Girls in Naples, Fla. Kayla (McClain) Reynolds is assistant vice president of finance and controller at St. Louis College of Pharmacy in St. Louis, Mo.
Jennifer (Stroot) Eschman, M.A.Ed. ’17, was named a 2020 Superintendent’s Quality & Excellence Award recipient by Collinsville CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich. She is a first-grade teacher at Kreitner Elementary School.
joined HSHS Medical Group in Clinton
Redell Hendricks is the community
County, Ill., as a primary care provider
relations coordinator at Washington
in family medicine.
University in St. Louis, Mo.
Kati (Melton) Hassall, M.A.Ed. ’18 is a
Hayley Hunt is a human resources
special education teacher at Triad High
coordinator at ApexNetwork Physical
School in Troy, Ill.
Therapy in Highland, Ill.
Lauren Haukapp, MBA ’18 is a contract
Alexander Kunz, MBA ’18 is the senior
specialist with DISA at Scott Air Force
associate at KPMG Deutschland in Berlin,
Base, Ill.
Germany.
Jill Mathenia, M.A.Ed., a special
Angelina Mabrey, M.A.Ed., is the
education teacher at Harmony-Emge
apprenticeship coordinator at Rend Lake
Ellis School in Belleville, Ill., received a
College in Mt. Vernon, Ill.
2019 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.
Megan (Jackson) Schmidt and her husband Ryan were featured in a Mt.
Caty (Ponce) Happe is the head girls’
Vernon Sentinel “Know Your Neighbor”
basketball coach and a math teacher
article about their community
at Edwardsville High School in
involvement.
Edwardsville, Ill.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
55
ALUMNI N o t e s Future Bearcats
2
3
4
1
5
6
7
8
9
13
11 10
12
1 Brittany (Jackson) Dobill ’06, MBA ’09,
5 Rebecca (Lindstrom) Wohltman ’09,
9 Renee (Ryterski) Wolk ’10, MAED ’12,
husband Dustin, and big brothers Cody
and husband Josh announce the birth
and husband Tanner ’09, MBA ’11
and Carter welcomed Sadie JayElle on
of Linden Kaye on Nov. 18, 2019.
announce the birth of Camella Piper
May 21, 2019.
on Aug. 6, 2019. 6 Katelyn (Cleveland) Heckerson ’10,
2 Ashlee (Ritchie) Lambert ’08, and
husband Nick, big sister Maddison and
10 Kristin (McKinney) Fanning ’11, and
husband Austin announce the birth
big brother Lucas welcomed Joshua
husband Evan announce the birth of
of Jacob Daniel on Oct. 24, 2019.
Nicholas on Nov. 26, 2018.
Oliver Blake on April 13, 2019.
3 Katie (Eilers) Renschen ’09, and
7 Monica (Graves) Stier ’10, husband
11 Brooke (Toenjes) Kloess ’11, husband
husband Brandon announce the birth
Michael ’10, MAPC ’13, and big brother
Dan, and big sisters Bristol and Kendall
of Eleanor Kristine on Jan. 9, 2020.
Brayden welcomed Ryan Michael on
welcomed Kylie Sue on Sept. 25, 2019.
Oct. 22, 2019 4 Molly (Reed) Session ’09, husband
12 Amanda (Davis) Pankey ’12, husband
Craig ’09, and big sisters Mabry and
8 Ali (Willoughby) Jeffers ’10, M.A.Ed. ’14,
Tyler ’04, and big brother Landon
Gracelynn welcomed Maverick Larry
husband Tim, MBA ’09, and big brother
welcomed Alivia Cecilia on Sept. 13,
on Aug. 18, 2018.
Will welcomed Barrett Elias on Oct. 26,
2019.
2019.
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www.mckendree.edu
ALUMNI N o t e s
15
17
16
14
18
19
20
21
22
25 23
24
26
13 Lauren (Zedalis) Gerdes ’13, and
17 Caitlyn (Jacober) Carroll ’14, husband
22 Katie (Greco) Oeth ’16, husband Bob
husband Alec ’15 announce the birth
Tommy, and big brother Vilas welcomed
’14, and big sister Hadley welcomed
of Tate Louise on Nov. 29, 2018.
Ira Edison on Nov. 26, 2019.
Brayden Olen on Sept. 24, 2019.
14 Emily (Williams) Hall ’13, husband
18 Chelsea (Lehr) Johnson ’14, husband
23 Katherine (Baker) Bohn ’16, and
Josh ’13, big sister Ruth and big brother
Jacob, and big sister Amelia welcomed
husband Bradley ’18 announce the
Rowan welcomed Reagan Laurel on
Leland Craig on March 5, 2019.
birth of Blakely Rae on Feb. 16, 2019.
19 Rebecca (Blake) Meeker ’15, and
24 Christina (Burden) Hill ’16, and
Sept. 16, 2019. 15 Kelsey (Jones) Hartung ’13, and
husband Darren ’13 announce the birth
husband Jeff announce the birth of
husband Derek ’13 announce the birth
of Riah Michelle on June 26, 2019.
Myles Emerson on Dec. 7, 2019.
20 Autumn Twardowski ’15, and big
25 Taylor (Simmons) Rosecrans ’16, and
of Bailey Marie on Feb. 21, 2020. 16 Tierney (McKay) Moore ’13, and
sister Adalynn welcomed Jantzen
husband John announce the birth of
husband Tyson ’11 announce the birth
Charles on April 9, 2020.
Emery Lynn on April 28, 2020.
of Mabry Stella on Nov. 16, 2019. 21 Jestine (Merritt) Wear ’15, and
26 Brooke (Cronin) Vandeventer ’17, and
husband Dylan announce the birth
husband Joe ’17 announce the birth of
of Regan James on Jan. 6, 2020.
Finley Patrick Dale on Oct. 23, 2019. McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
57
ALUMNI N o t e s In Memoriam
Nancy M. Rothschild ’80, 12/17/19
Shawna M. Clevenger ’95, 4/23/20
Deceased alumni and friends through
Debbie L. (Schmiz) Blackburn ’85, 12/19/19
Martha J. (Harris) Tempel ’61, 4/23/20
August 31, 2020.
Julian C. "Jack" Carey '64, 4/27/20
Kay Montana, 9/3/19
Rev. John R. Curtis, Jr., ’50, 1/10/20
Benjamin C. “Ben” Harrington ’12, 4/28/20
Judith F. (Wille) Preast ’67, 9/3/19
Pamela K. Shaw ’96, 1/11/20
John F. Conboy ’90, 5/3/20
Dr. Charles L. “Chuck” Davis, 9/19/19
Tracy N. Barboza ’09, 1/12/20
Edward B. Parsons ’71, 5/18/20
Jody Maroney ’87, 9/19/19
Kirk L. Dermint, 1/13/20
Nancy Mog '77, 5/24/20
Ray W. Arnold ’54, 9/29/19
Franklin D. “Frank” McCarty ’83, 1/16/20
Carol J. Frakes ’98, 5/25/20
Benjamin D. Patchen ’22, 10/5/19
Ethel (Dewhirst) Large ’43, 1/22/20
Dan D. “Danny” Bennett ’12, 5/26/20
Sandra K. (Robinson) Renshaw ’59, 10/8/19
Marilyn K. (Weintz) Twitty ’82, 1/26/20
David J. Dorries ’09, 6/3/20
Mabel D. (Evans) Jeffery ’61, 1/28/20
Ralph A. Totten ’53, 6/5/20
Lanier Hobbs Jr. ’93, 1/31/20
Mary Margaret (Steinhauser) Smith ’67, 6/7/20
William E. Herbst ’60, 10/10/19 Aaron E. Vogler ’57, 10/10/19 Dinah L. Tanner ’52, 10/12/19 John W. Bachmann, 10/18/19 Aaron T. Biggs ’11, 10/24/19
Muriel P. (Peithman) Brink ’62, 2/2/20 Robert "Bob" Maschal, 2/9/20 Richard Rawlings ’54, 2/13/20
James P. McRoy ’91, 10/25/19
Cynthia L. (Radden) Bingham ’99, 2/14/20
Leslie Dennis, 10/30/19
Matthew J. Wilson ’97, 2/14/20
James E. “Jim” Burns, 11/2/19
Andrew G. Hetzel ’96, 2/16/20
Harrison L. Church, 11/8/19
Thomas M. Dawson ’75, 2/25/20
Albert F. Allen ’66, 11/14/19
S. Brian Gaines ’99, 2/25/20
Rev. Robert R. Hollis ’53, 11/19/19
Ramona K. Cornish ’82, 2/29/20
CSM Dicty L. Missouri, USA, Ret. ’90, 11/27/19
Henry W. “Hank” Feldt ’59, 3/6/20
Col. Francis J. Almeter, USAF, Ret., 11/29/19
Cassandra L. “Cassi” Stuby ’20, 3/7/20 Natalie K. Dobbs ’08, 3/18/20
Richard V. Husted ’67, 12/1/19
Dr. Robert J. “Bob” Clement, 3/24/20
Martha L. Weiss ’52, 12/4/19
Warren J. Johnson '10, 4/1/20
Dawn M. (Cox) Bruder ’07, 12/8/19
Gloria H. (Munier) Falbe ’88, 4/7/20
Lt. Col. Paul D. Motzer, USAF, Ret. ’57, 12/13/19
Albert A. Bergkoetter ’86, 4/12/20
Ron W. Kolar ’56, 12/15/19 Rev. Dr. Donald L. Lowe, ’48, 12/16/19 Milinda G. “Mindy” (Hicks) Riggio ’72, 12/17/19
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Paul M. Dove ’52, 12/30/19
www.mckendree.edu
E. Paul Belobraydic ’71, 4/16/20 Donald E. Welge, 4/16/20 Ray Frazier ’00, 4/20/20 Ronald R. Hoercher ’58, 4/22/20
David L. Stepp ’70, 6/10/20 Carl L. Behrens ’61, 6/11/20 Patricia A. Dubois ’77, 6/15/20 Tonya J. (Bohnenstiel) Loehring ’93, 6/20/20 Justin C. Love '19, 6/20/20 Jeffrey C. Green '17, 6/24/20 Susan M. (North) Anderson ’94, 6/28/20 Bobby D. Allen ’83, 7/2/20 Jonathan S. Grove ’73, 7/8/20 Joy R. “Joe” Brawley ’78, 7/12/20 Dr. Wayne B. Cox II, 7/19/20 Leonard A. “Len” Butler, 7/23/20 Roger E. Boeckman ’60, 8/2/20 Steven M. Mensing ’82, 8/9/20 Dr. Donald E. Fouts, 8/12/20 Diana J. (Adams) Hedrick ’68, 8/14/20 John R. Pfeffer, 8/16/20 Roger D. Schallom ’81, 8/16/20 George F. “Jeff” Carling ’69, 8/18/20
ALUMNI N o t e s Marla Schulte, MAT ’20 teaches middle school math at Belle Valley School in Belleville, Ill.
2017
Wyatt Patterson Jr. was a standout front
Sarah (Goetze) Anderson, M.A. ’18 is a senior EP paralegal at Ritchie Law Office
Kamryn Terveer is a chiropractor at Nashville Chiropractic in Nashville, Ill. Samantha (Renth) von Fahnestock is an actuarial analyst at Genworth in Norfolk, Va.
in Bloomington, Ill. Max Aviles was sworn in as a U.S. diplomat in October 2019. He is assigned to Nouakschoot, Mauritania. Ronnie Drummond graduated with a
Hope (Waters) Watts is the band director at Carlyle Junior and Senior High School in Carlyle, Ill.
doctorate in occupational therapy from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo.
Lazabier Graham received a master’s degree in cyber security
Carl Draper ’60, 1937-2020
from Maryville University in
Trustee and
December 2019.
Alumni Board
row middle blocker for the VC BitterfeldWolfen professional volleyball team in Germany for the 2019-20 season. Chris Smith was hired as the band director at Franklin Park Middle School in Salem, Ill. Dr. PJ Thompson, M.A.Ed., completed a Doctor of Education degree at Maryville University in St. Louis, Mo. Hannah Valbert is a history teacher at Triad High School in Troy, Ill. A.J. Wentland is a professional linebacker for the Kuopio Steelers football team in Kuopia, Finland.
2018 Andrew Best, M.A. ’20 signed a contract
member Carl
Jessica Imm, a kindergarten teacher at
to play professional hockey for Ockelbo
Draper ’60
Eagleview Elementary in Columbia, Ill.,
HC in Sweden.
passed away
was named the Post-Dispatch’s April
at his home in
Teacher of the Month.
Luke Davis was hired as the band
Carl earned a bachelor’s degree in
Tyler Jewell is the music director at
Middle School in Trenton, Ill.
mathematics and enjoyed a
Breese Central High School in Breese, Ill.
director at Wesclin High School and
Wood River, Ill., on Jan. 30, 2020.
successful 35-year career as a
Shannon
geodesist at the National Imagery
Trey Schlieker is production assistant at Country Financial in Arthur, Ill., and an
and Mapping Agency (now known as
McGinnis, an RN
assistant coach for the Sullivan Redskins
the National Geospatial-Intelligence
at Northwestern
football team.
Agency) in St. Louis, Mo. He served
Memorial Hospital
on the Alumni Board of Directors and
in downtown
on the University Board of Trustees
Chicago, works
since 1998, receiving the Loyal
in the hospital’s
Service Award in 1992 and the Peter
COVID unit.
Aker’s Award in 2003. Serving not only his alma mater but also his
Stephen McIntosh is a business
community, he provided financial
operations analysis at Siemens Digital
support for a broad range of projects
Industries Software in St. Louis, Mo., and
and volunteered 40,585 hours at
a reserve player for the St. Louis Ambush
Alton Memorial Hospital in Alton, Ill.,
professional indoor soccer team.
Chloe Thies graduated with her master’s degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Brock Wilkinson Is the band director at Neoga High School and Middle School in Neoga, Ill.
2019 Anne Britton is a first-grade teacher at LaVerna Evans School in O’Fallon, Ill.
which estimated his worth in equivalent hourly wages at
Ravyn Olin was recognized by the
approximately $1 million.
School of Nursing as the Outstanding
Christina Brown is a general music
Master of Science in Nursing student
teacher, choir director, and drama
for 2019-2020.
teacher in Teutopolis Unit #50 Schools.
McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
59
ALUMNI N o t e s Naeelah Chism is a policy associate at
Hailey Kingston is a general music
Humanity First for Illinois.
teacher at Central Grade School in Effingham, Ill.
Megan Clagg is a fifth-grade teacher at Carlinville Elementary School in
Teresa Kolweier is a special education
Carlinville, Ill.
teacher at Okawville Grade School in Okawville, Ill.
Samantha (Johnson) Drone is a firstgrade teacher at Belle Valley Elementary
Monica (Kunkel) Snyder is a first-grade
School in Belleville, Ill.
teacher at Red Bud Elementary School in Red Bud, Ill.
Michelle Huber, MBA is the controller at KAI Enterprises in St. Louis, Mo.
Chase Meier is a financial analyst at Cigna.
Raina Isaacs and Dr. Guy A. Boysen, professor of psychology, co-wrote an
Dr. Derek Milby, DNP is director of
article entitled “Perceptions of People
surgery at Clark Memorial Hospital
with Mental Illness as Sexually
in Jeffersonville, Ind.
Exploitable,” which was accepted for publication in Evolutionary Behavioral
Brittany Schmidtke is a medical case
Sciences, a peer-reviewed journal of the
manager at the St. Clair County Health
American Psychological Association. It is
Department.
the third peer-reviewed publication for Raina, who is pursuing a master’s degree
Kelsey (Sutherland) Schultz is the
in psychology at Illinois State University.
intervention coordinator at Whiteside Middle School in Belleville, Ill.
Ciara Janas is a fourth-grade teacher at Independence Elementary School in
Andrew Wagner had his teaching
St. Louis, Mo.
assistantship renewed for another year by Technos International College in Tokyo, Japan.
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2020 Taylor Ganz, who is attending Saint Louis University as part of McKendree’s 3+3 law degree program, was one of a select group of law students accepted to attend the U.S. Marine Corps Officer Candidate School. She will train to serve as a Judge Advocate General. Alyssa Koston is an information technology specialist at the U.S. Department of Justice. Allison Loehr is a special education teacher at Triad High School in Troy, Ill. Kyle Nordmann is an associate systems architect with Eagle Technology Group at Transcom at Scott Air Force Base, Ill. Faith Rose is a customer specialist at ComPsych in St. Louis, Mo. Brianca Spells is an accountant at FCB Bank.
ALUMNI N o t e s The Chiefs’ 2019-2020 season was noteworthy for many reasons, ending with a dramatic victory in Super Bowl LIV. The unforgettable run to the playoffs and the championship occurred during Meghan’s rookie year with a professional sports organization. “I really enjoyed the progression of the season and the excitement that surrounded the growth of the team,” she said. “I was so honored to watch and be a part of the energy from the beginning of the season!” In addition to the unique experience of the Super Bowl, Meghan is excited to see how her art fellowship shapes the future of her career. She recently co-founded her own company, D2 Research, a research and collection management firm specializing in such services as contracted archival research for professors and law firms, as well as cataloging and managing art collections
Meghan Dohogne ’14: Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Art Fellow by Stephanie Dulaney ’10
and promote partnerships and
for institutions. She and her business
awareness in the region.
partner started the company while
“Traditionally, the role of art collecting
Leavenworth, Kan., in which they
working on a project at Fort has not been entirely separated from the
developed a plan to preserve the art
imagine stadiums packed with fans,
professional sports world,” Meghan said.
collection of the Command and General
Super Bowl and tailgate parties, or
“Many of the owners, players, and those
Staff College on base.
Think of the NFL and you probably
Sunday afternoons in front of the TV.
involved in the organization for much of
Art history wouldn’t come to mind. For
its history have collected art privately.
history major alumna Meghan Dohogne
What makes the Arrowhead Art
Chiefs is helping her learn more about
’14, however, an appreciation for the
Collection unique is that the work is
how to keep improving the public’s
arts can be cultivated anywhere a
open to the public in the stadium.
experience with art. She only has to
community of people is connected by
The collection is comprised of entirely
look back at her time at McKendree to
a common bond. In her case, it’s the
regional works, so it allows visitors to
remember how important it is to have
Kansas City Chiefs.
see the talent of the artists in the Chiefs
that lifelong learning mentality. “As a
Kingdom area.”
McKendree student, I co-authored the
Meghan believes her fellowship with the
book McKendree Recollections, which
Meghan became the 2020 Super Bowl champions’ Arrowhead Art Fellow in the
This past year, the Chiefs hosted more
relied heavily on material we found in the
summer of 2019. Currently pursuing a
than 20,000 children at the stadium for
archives,” she said. “The skills I learned
Ph.D. in history at the University of
a guided tour, where the art collection
have been helpful in curating exhibitions,
Missouri-Kansas City, she applied for the
served as an important educational tool.
developing educational materials, and
position as part of her graduate research
One of Meghan’s favorite roles as the
encouraging viewers to engage directly
project. The fellowship enables her to
Arrowhead Art Fellow is creating this
with materials.” She is using her Chiefs’
engage the community with the Chiefs’
learning atmosphere, in which people
experience to do the same: to keep
art collection at Arrowhead Stadium,
can engage with the art in a
growing her skills and connecting new
work with artists for outreach events,
nonintimidating way.
generations of people with art. McKendree Magazine | Fall 2020
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701 College Road Lebanon, IL 62254
The All IN Campus Democracy Committee registering students to vote on campus.