The Magazine for
c M Kendree WINTER 2013
A Culture of Community Service The Final Whistle Homecoming
PRESIDENT’Smessage Dear Friends, As we begin a New Year and find McKendree University in the opening days of a new semester, I think it fitting our magazine has as its focus, service. Service is defined in many ways and includes some of the following language: • • • •
Contribution to the welfare of others The act of serving Being helpful Useful labor that does not produce a tangible commodity
At McKendree we define service in all of these ways and many more. This issue of The Magazine for McKendree showcases the service provided by our students, faculty and staff assisting many who are in need of care, kindness, food, clothing, tutoring, and a kind word or smile. The service provided to the broader community by McKendree is far-reaching. Last year a staggering 23,623 hours of service were given by 2,231 students. A total of 14,000 hours of service was provided by just over 600 students who are enrolled in Service Learning courses. These unique courses include a service component to class readings, lectures and instruction, and they are increasingly popular with our students. In addition, students were also very active with our Center for Public Service, through programs like “Into the Streets,” which is part of our first-year orientation weekend, and a number of other programs. McKendree is extremely proud of our repeated recognition on, and inclusion in, the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll—now five times. This recognition is given by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that engages more than 4 million Americans in service through Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and the Social Innovation Fund, and leads President Obama’s national call to service initiative, United We Serve. This affirmation of the work we are doing is exciting, but even more exciting will be the stories and photographs waiting for you on the pages that follow. In a period of history when our society is often besieged with the negative things we hear young people are doing, it is wonderful to be able to share stories of McKendree students making a difference in our broader community and world. Each time I hear about the remarkable contributions McKendree students, faculty and staff are making, I am inspired by them and honored to call them friends. Perhaps their stories will inspire you to look for ways in which you can make a difference in the community in which you live and work in 2013. Sincerely,
Jim Dennis President
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Service
Homecoming
FEATURES THIS ISSUE IN THIS ISSUE • On Campus 3
Magazine Contributors
• Bearcat Athletics 11 • Take Five 22 • Alumni News
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• Class Notes 32
Published twice a year, The Magazine for McKendree connects alumni and friends to the McKendree University community. Please send address changes to:
FPO
By printing this magazine on 10% post consumer waste recycled paper, the following resources were saved: 15 mature trees 405 lbs of solid waste 1384 lbs of greenhouse gases 5 million BTU’s 6664 gallons of water
McKendree University Office of Development, Alumni and Parent Relations 701 College Road Lebanon, IL 62254 Keeping in touch is easy. Call 1-800-BEARCAT, ext. 6826, or send e-mail updates to alumni@mckendree.edu.
Editorial content, writing and production: Lisa Brandon, Director of Media Relations Krysti Connelly, Executive Director for University Communications and Marketing Victoria Dowling, Senior Vice President Whitney Fraier, Director of Alumni Relations Sherry Hall, Graphic Designer Writing/Photography: Don Adams Photography Maegan Beasley ’13 Scott Cummings Michael Embrich Michele Erschen Sarah Fonger ’16 Jaime Ingle Josh Monken Photography Angie (Grossman) Roewe ’98 Theresa Schmidt ’10 Ed Vernon James Visser Photography Austin Vuichard ’14 Rick Windham Photography
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CALENDARhighlights THE MOST CURRENT MCKENDREE NEWS AND/OR EVENTS CAN BE FOUND AT MCKENDREE.EDU. WOMEN’S LACROSSE INAUGURAL GAME
PREVIEW DAY
The women’s lacrosse team hosts its inaugural game on Feb. 23 at 1 p.m. against Fontbonne University on Leemon Field. For more schedule details and other athletic news, visit www.mckbearcats.com.
The Admission Office will host a Preview Day on April 6. Learn more at www.mckendree.edu/previewday.
THE HETTENHAUSEN CENTER FOR THE ARTS Come watch an upcoming “McKendree Presents” or student performance at the Hett. Tickets are still available for several shows, including: • Cantus – Feb. 22 • Theater Department Spring Production: Somewhere In Between – Feb. 28 through March 3 • Lightwire Theater: The Ugly Duckling/Tortoise & The Hare – March 17 • The Acting Company: Of Mice and Men – March 26 • Spring Concert Band Concert – April 19 • Spring Choral Concert – April 26 • Dance Recital – April 30 • St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra – May 5 For a full schedule of events and times, check out www.theHett.com.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE & MACON COUNTY HONOR BAND FESTIVAL The McKendree Marching Bearcat Band and PomCats Dance Team will participate in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Chicago, Ill., on March 16. In addition, the Concert Band will perform at the Macon County Honor Band Festival in Decatur, Ill., on March 14. David Boggs, director of bands, will be the guest conductor. If you live in the Chicago or Decatur area, come out and show your McKendree pride.
A spring Lanter Lecture will be held on April 24 at 6 p.m. in the Hett. The speaker will be entrepreneurial businessman Don Welge, chairman, CEO and president of Gilster-Mary Lee Corporation.
COMMENCEMENT CEREMONIES The Lebanon campus graduation activities are scheduled for May 10 & 11. The annual Senior Farewell Service will be held at 4:30 p.m. on May 10 in the Hett. Immediately following the service, a Graduation Celebration will be held outside in the circle drive by the fountain. On May 11, the Undergraduate Commencement ceremony will be held at 9 a.m. on the front lawn, followed by the Graduate Commencement ceremony at 2 p.m. The Kentucky Commencement ceremony will be held on June 8 at 2 p.m. at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Ky.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MEETING The Alumni Association meeting will be held on June 1.
MCKENDREE BEARCAT GOLF TOURNAMENT The 2nd Annual Bearcat Golf Tournament will return to St. Clair Country Club in Belleville, Ill., on June 21, with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Proceeds will benefit the Athletic Department. For more information, visit www.mckendree.edu/golf or contact Kim Mayden at kamayden@mckendree.edu.
GLOBAL COMMUNITY WEEK
SINGIN’ AND SWINGIN’ AT THE HETT
The 2nd annual Global Community Week will be held from March 20-27. Activities will include a Peace Museum, Taste of Faith, Interfaith Immersion Day, Seder Meal, Service and Peace Walk.
Five alumni, Charles Rann ’63, Richard Boyd ’66, Susan Constance ’67, Anna McNeeley ’72, and Mark Gifford ’77, will return to the McKendree stage as performers in “Singin’ and Swingin’ at the Hett” at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, June 28. Other performers include Ellen Leaf-Moore and Edward Cook. Shirley (Sydnor) Schaefer ’60 is the chair of the concert, which will benefit the ministries of Lebanon First United Methodist Church.
RAMBLE INTO SPRING The fifth annual “Ramble Into Spring” is set for 8 a.m. on March 23 with two distance options: a 5K (3.1 miles) runwalk or half-marathon (13.1 miles). Register online at www.mckendree.edu/raceday.
RECONCILIATION CHAPEL SERVICES Campus Ministries is sponsoring a yearlong University Chapel Series in Bothwell Chapel. Rev. Dr. Tim Harrison will lead the Taize Reconciliation Chapel Service at 7 p.m. on March 26. Javier Orozco is the guest speaker at the Celebration Chapel Service at 11:30 a.m. on May 3. 2
WAYNE E. LANTER LECTURE
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DRUM CORPS INTERNATIONAL “DCI St. Louis,” a Drum Corps International premier event, will return to campus on July 15 at 7 p.m. at Leemon Field. Ticket prices range from $20 to $45 for premium reserved seating and can be purchased at www.dci.org/tickets. Proceeds will support the McKendree Music Department’s interactive, hands-on “Music in Our Schools” program for pre-K through 12th grade students.
ONcampus News Briefs We’re Now Online
In addition, the online magazine can help McKendree University’s “going green” initiative. If you prefer to view the magazine online and no longer wish to receive the print version, send an email to alumni@mckendree.edu. Instead, you’ll receive an e-mail message when a new version of the magazine is ready to be viewed.
The current edition of The Magazine for McKendree can be viewed online at www.mckendree.edu/magazineformck.
Also, if your household is seeing more than one Magazine for McKendree in your mailbox and you would like to eliminate duplicate copies, send an e-mail with “seeing double” in the subject line and include the name of the person in your household to whom the magazine should be delivered.
You’ll find the same stories and Class Notes online that appear in the print magazine, as well as expanded content, such as exclusive web stories, videos, photos and links to websites. Any time you see the above icon it denotes interactive, online content.
Announcing McK Radio Connect to McK Radio, now broadcasting music, campus news, and athletic and performing arts events via iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch or the Internet at http://radio.mckendree.edu. An Android app is in the works. Formed in 2011, the Radio Station Club, offers a unique opportunity for students, faculty and staff interested in journalism, music, and radio
broadcasting. The start-up station received approximately $2,500 of professional sound equipment donated by local sound engineer Bob Heil, and his wife Sarah Benton Heil ’74. “We hope that the station has a long future of serving the McKendree community,” said Dr. Kevin Zanelotti, assistant professor of philosophy. “We’d love to use it as a way to connect with others and nurture the relationships that make McKendree a truly special place.”
Student Debt One of Midwest’s Lowest
debt load, including loans from colleges, private financial institutions and federal, state and local governments.
McKendree University is among the top five Midwest regional universities whose students graduate with the lowest amount of debt, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2013 “Best Colleges” list. Findings were based on the Class of 2011’s
In addtion, U.S. News once again rates McKendree in the top quarter overall of 625 participating institutions in the Midwest’s Best Regional Universities category.
New Executive Director of Kentucky Campuses
Christian Blome is the new executive director of the McKendree University campuses in Louisville and Radcliff, Ky. He succeeds Dr. Darrel Hardt, who has assumed directorship of the doctoral program at the Lebanon campus. Christian is the former director of admissions at Vincennes University in Vincennes, Ind. He received a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Southern Indiana, a master’s degree in public service administration from the University of Evansville, and is currently a Ph.D. candidate in educational leadership, higher education administration at Indiana State University. “I consider it a blessing to join the McKendree University family and work with an incredibly talented team in Kentucky,” he said. “I am excited about the future of the Kentucky campuses and continuing the tradition of providing a quality educational experience to outstanding students.” Christian, and his wife Emily, have two children: Carter, 4, and Lainee, 3.
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ONcampus News Briefs
Uniting for a class photo and signing the matricula at New Student Convocation are two McKendree traditions.
McKendree Today: Meet the Class of 2016 Most of them were born in the year O.J. Simpson fled L.A. in a white Bronco, Lisa Marie Presley married Michael Jackson, and figure skater Nancy Kerrigan got bashed in the kneecap. They are the Class of 2016, who arrived on campus in August with their e-readers, smart phones, tablets and iPods from cities, small towns and suburbia in 18 states and every hemisphere. While 79 percent of the 305 first-year students call Illinois their home, others are citizens of Canada, Tajikistan, Ghana, Ireland, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Like their predecessors, these undergraduates are academic achievers, with an average high school GPA of 3.5. More than half graduated in the top third of their high school graduating class; 76 percent received an academic scholarship. Fourteen percent continue a McKendree family legacy through a parent, grandparent or sibling. Nine out of ten first-year students—as well as nearly half of the 135 transfer students from community colleges and other four-year institutions—are living on campus this year.
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“McKendree University has always been my top choice and I am confident I will receive a quality education here. This will be essential when I seek admission to law school and pursue my career as an attorney. Not only is McKendree a good fit for me, but I am a good fit for McKendree. With leadership skills, a drive to succeed, and a friendly personality, I strive to always radiate a positive energy that will motivate others as well.” Christin Austin ’16, a first-year political science and economics major from Wayne City, Ill.; Student Government Association Senator, Debate Team, Sigma Sigma Sigma, Student Ambassador, Student TeleCounselor, Emerging Leaders Program
“I am especially fond of the familyoriented atmosphere. I have ample opportunities to meet with my professors during my journey to academic improvement. One thing I learned from my high school experience is to get involved. In order to do that, I will do my best to be an outstanding student, participate in all I can, and show my McKendree pride at all times. I pray and hope that the faith I hold in McKendree, is returned by McKendree having great faith in me.” Rhoda Warner ’16, a first-year psychology and religion major from Springfield, Ill.; Student Government Association Senator, Center for Public Service, Black Student Organization, ALPHA, Campus Ministries Core Team, Resident Hall Association, Student Ambassador
A Bold Vision for a Bright Future In 2012, the Board of Trustees sought input from many stakeholders to develop a new Strategic Plan—a blueprint that gives direction to its bold vision for the next five years. The plan focuses on six imperatives, summarized as follows: Academic Distinction. Our high quality academic programs are distinctive in their content, rigor and course format. Our faculty will create curricula and experiences that require students to take an active role; to think critically; to integrate knowledge across disciplines; and to apply them outside the classroom. Intellectual Climate. A college degree should be a springboard to lifelong learning. We will offer a variety of ways to broaden our knowledge and come together as a community of scholars to exchange ideas, express differing points of view, or simply enjoy works of art or a great performance.
Board Welcomes Two New Trustees
Mark Mestemacher is the co-owner of Ceres Barge Line and Ceres Consulting, LLC, a water freight transportation business headquartered in East St. Louis, Ill. Mark is a board member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes,
The McKendree Experience. McKendree is large enough to offer a variety of quality academic options yet small enough to provide the individualized attention for which we are known. Students can find the inspiration to “make their mark” in a number of ways. Hallmarks include an extraordinary education, a collaborative environment, a strong sense of values and community, experiential learning, civic engagement, and an atmosphere of inquiry and mutual respect.
share. For nearly two centuries we have achieved academic excellence, produced outstanding graduates, and made important contributions to the community. We have experienced tremendous growth in academic and cocurricular activities, and in our graduate and online programs. This growth— coupled with challenges from competitors, the economy, and government regulations—requires new, innovative methods to tell our story.
Faculty Scholarship and Staff Development. We take pride in the professional quality of our faculty and staff, and their sense of satisfaction as evidenced by our repeated recognition by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For.” We know scholarship and development opportunities result in engaged employees that better serve our students and the University.
Securing Our Future. A well-maintained, aesthetically attractive, and secure learning environment is conducive to our students’ success. We will remain financially sound by strategically growing the student body, developing new degree programs, and managing our endowment and resources well. For more information, check out www.mckendree.edu/strategicplan.
Sharing Our Story. We have a lot to be proud of and many important stories to
and is very interested in sports and wrestling in particular. He has supported McKendree’s wrestling program with generous contributions, and often attends matches. The Mestemachers are new members of the William McKendree Society. Mark, and his wife Carol, live in Edwardsville, Ill. Maria (Stallings) Page ’89, MAED ’06, is a member of the William McKendree Society, and president of the Alumni Association. She has been a member of the Alumni Board for over 10 years and served on several committees within the Alumni Association. Maria is featured on page 24.
In Greater St. Louis Top 50! The St. Louis Regional Chamber and Growth Association (RCGA) named McKendree University one of the “Greater St. Louis Top 50” businesses and organizations in the 16-county bistate region in 2012. Selection is based on employment and revenue growth, contributions and enhancements to the community, acquisitions, green or sustainable efforts, expansion and development.
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ONcampus News Briefs
A book autographed by which famous scientist was discovered in Holman Library? Read more online.
FIRST Robotics Competitions Over 250 youth came to campus on Nov. 17 and 18 to compete in the qualifying tournaments for the 2012-13 FIRST ® Tech Challenge (FTC) and FIRST ® LEGO League (FLL). Twelve high school-aged teams from Illinois, Indiana and Missouri faced off in the second annual FTC tournament, with the 18-by18-inch robot created by the MechaHamsters from Martinsville, Ind., taking
3+2 Engineering Partnership McKendree’s growing pre-engineering program now offers dual enrollment with the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Mo., as well as the University of Illinois. Upon successful completion of three years of study at McKendree, students complete engineering degree requirements for their final two years at either of the other
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the tournament’s top prize. The inaugural FLL tournament brought 14 teams of 8-14 year olds to campus to compete with their LEGO Mindstorms robots. Three local teams advanced to the state championships in January—DA EX BOTS from O’Fallon, Ill.; Albers Elementary from Germantown, Ill.; and VX3 from Lebanon, Ill.
universities. The 3+2 engineering program combines the virtues of a McKendree education with advanced technical training at two of the country’s top engineering schools. Signing the partnership agreement with Missouri S&T is Dr. Christine Bahr, provost and dean, joined by Dr. Adam Tournier, assistant professor of physics, and Dr. Jim Feher, Division of Computing chair.
Meet ‘The Professigator’ Ready for their close up are senior environmental studies major Kat Studley ’13 and a baby American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) known as “The Professigator.” It is illegal to possess an American Alligator without the appropriate state permits, which is how the little reptile ended up in the care of Dr. Ben Jellen, assistant professor of biology. Seized from the home of someone who had acquired and kept it illegally, the Conservation Police and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources turned the animal over to Dr. Jellen for educational use. It now lives in a padlocked, rock and water-filled trough in Voigt Science Hall. Jonathan Samples ’14 suggested the winning name in a campuswide contest that drew over 30 clever entries. Whether the gator is a he or a she is unknown; like turtles and crocodiles,the sex is determined by the temperature inside the nest at birth. “The Professigator” dines twice a week on ground beef, fish, mice, and an occasional grilled chicken sandwich. The American Alligator is North America’s largest reptile, measuring 10 to 13 inches upon hatching and growing two to 12 inches a year, to an average adult size of 13 feet and 500 pounds. When McKendree’s baby reptilein-residence outgrows its campus home, it will live out its natural life in captivity, outdoors in Missouri.
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ONcampus News Briefs
117th Regiment of Illinois Volunteers 150th Anniversary A special memorial service was held in honor of the 150th anniversary of the muster-in of the 117th Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment a.k.a. “The McKendree Regiment,” on Sept. 19.
Led by McKendree professor, Gen. Risdon M. Moore, the 117th Regiment was comprised of 958 soldiers, many of whom were McKendree faculty, graduates, students and staff. Students in Dr. Shelly Lemons’ Emergence of Modern America history class and members of Phi Alpha Theta, set-up a 958-flag display in the quad to commemorate the soldiers who served. As part of the anniversary, a National Call to Service Project was held in honor of the
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regiment. Over 117 hours of service were performed by various students groups and University 101 classes during September. In addition, a Civil War exhibit was displayed in Holman Library and a special section of the McKendree website dedicated to the 117th Regiment was created by history major, Jessica Tieman ’13 and economic/finance major Austin Vuichard ’14.
The McKendree Gallery of Art is in the heart of downtown Lebanon at 224 St. Louis Street.
Left, “Kathy,” by David Ottinger Above, “Queen Anne’s Lace,” a self-portrait by Amy MacLennan
Art Gallery Opens in Downtown Lebanon Students, faculty, alumni and local artists have a new place to showcase their creativity with the opening of the McKendree University Gallery of Art in downtown Lebanon, Ill. The opening exhibition in November featured the work of David
Ottinger, Amy MacLennan, Eric Hoefer, Melody Evans and Christopher Ottinger, all current or former art faculty members. A December exhibit displayed students’ artwork.
shipping, handling and storing art,” said professor David Ottinger. “We now have the ability to become part of local art community and the greater St. Louis art community.”
The 1,000 square foot gallery venue allows students “not only to exhibit their work in public, but also to learn about installing, advertising, and presenting, as well as crating,
The gallery is staffed by volunteers. Hours are by appointment or during special events. Admission is free.
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ONcampus News Briefs
Distinguished Service Honors New Computer Honor Society Upsilon Pi Epsilon, an international academic honor society for the computing and information sciences, inducted ten charter members of McKendree’s new Eta chapter. Student members must rank in the upper 35 percent of their graduating class, with a GPA of 3.0 or greater and a minimum
of 45 credit hours completed, including 15 in the Computing Division. Initiated on Sept. 28 were, left to right, Austin Heller ’14, Richard Arens ’13, LaTia Jefferson ’14, Dustin Page ’13, Christopher Uhe ’14, Kevin Schaefer ’14, Dr. KianPokorny, professor of computer science and computer information systems; Matthew Swenson ’14, vice president; Matthew Ernst ’13, president; and Zachery Turpen ’13, treasurer.
Scholar-Athlete is 2012 Lincoln Laureate Matt Ernst ’13 is a history buff, computer whiz, football player, resident assistant, honor student, and now, a 2012 Lincoln Laureate. Each fall, the Lincoln Academy selects one outstanding senior from each Illinois four-year institution for overall excellence in academics and extracurricular activities. The senior from Peoria, Ill., is majoring in computer science and minoring in mathematics and history. 10
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Imagine how many history, sociology and art students Dr. Pat Folk, Dr. Lyn Huxford and David Ottinger (left to right) have taught, mentored and inspiredin their 35-year careers. Think of the profound changes they have witnessed on campus since their arrival in 1978.Their loyal service has earned each thetitle of “Distinguished Service Professor.” Folk, the Deneen Memorial Professor of Early American History, is legendary for his lively storytelling and ability to make history exciting. Huxford, founder of the Center for Public Service, is known for her passion, energy and commitment to volunteerism. Ottinger, an accomplished artist, has developedhis program’s curricula and guided many students to graduate school or art careers.
Excellence in Teaching
An interview with Dr. Will is on page 22.
Dr. Peter Will, associate professor of management, and three alumni were among 93 St. Louis area Emerson Excellence in Teaching honorees for 2012.
Alumni awardees were Lori Crunk ’96, of Belleville, Ill., a physical education teacher at Freeburg Community High School in Freeburg, Ill.; Debbie Witsken ’08, of Bethalto, Ill., an occupational therapy instructor at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Ill.; and Natalie (Sneed) Bouillon MAED ’09, of Wood River, Ill., a second grade teacher at Hartford Elementary School in Hartford, Ill.
“He is an excellent, widely respected teacher who has provided leadership in curriculum development to meet our students’ needs,” said Dr. Christine Bahr, provost.
BEARCATathletics Fall 2012 Sports Re-Cap All-Conference Honors Twelve Bearcats earned All-Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) honors during the fall semester. Juniors Blake DeLong ’14, from Hillsboro, Ill., and Elkana Kipsang ’14, from Eldoret, Kenya, etched their names into the school’s record books by helping the Bearcat men’s cross country team to a sixth-place finish at the GLVC Championships in Springfield, Mo. Blake and Elkana became the first two McKendree student-athletes to earn All-Conference honors in the GLVC based on their fifth and eighth place performances in the eight-kilometer race. Freshman midfielder Alex Ridsdale ’16, from Auckland, New Zealand, and Kavel Smith ’14, from Kingston, Jamaica, were the first McKendree men’s soccer players to earn All-Conference awards. Alex was named to the All-
GLVC second team. He led the team with eight goals scored and four game-winning goals. Kavel was an All-GLVC third team selection. He was tied for second on the team with seven goals scored. The men’s soccer team finished the season with an overall record of 9-8 overall and 7-8 in the GLVC, narrowly missing out on a berth into the conference tournament. On the gridiron, eight football players earned All-Conference honors. Junior defensive back Jamison Wilson ’14, from Country Club Hills, Ill., was the Bearcats’ lone first-team All-GLVC selection. Jamison led McKendree— and the GLVC—with five interceptions during the 2012 season. Twice during the year, he was selected as the GLVC Defensive Player of the week. Five other
McKendree players grabbed second-team All-GLVC accolades, including senior defensive lineman Sherrod Stancil ’13, from Naperville, Ill., senior kicker/punter Matt Kendall ’13, from O’Fallon, Ill., junior offensive lineman Ayoola Oyetunji ’14, from DeSoto, Ill., sophomore linebacker Bryce Colvin ’15, from East Peoria, Ill., and freshman running back Cameron James ’16, from Edwardsville, Ill. In addition, senior defensive lineman Tim Weidenbacher ’13, from Naperville, Ill., and junior offensive lineman Richie Rebmann ’14, from Bensenville, Ill., collected honorable mention honors.
Coach Tim Strange Earned 200th Women’s Soccer Win Head women’s soccer coach Tim Strange collected his 200th career women’s soccer victory on Sept. 21 after the Bearcats defeated the University of Indianapolis, 1-0, in double overtime. After 14 seasons at the helm of the women’s soccer team, Tim has an overall record of 200-53-19. The team ended its season with an overall record of 10-6-2.
Abby Hanger Joined 1,000-Assist Club Junior setter Abby Hanger ’14, from Belleville, Ill., earned 1,247 assists this season, becoming just the third player in McKendree volleyball history to reach the 1,000-assist mark for a season. She joins Allison DeGroot ’08 (1,683 in
2006) and Lyndsey Hillyard ’06 (1,656 in 2004) as the only Bearcat players to top 1,000 assists in a single season. The Bearcat volleyball team wrapped up the season with an overall record of 15-16, and a 9-9 conference record in their first year as members of the GLVC.
Follow the Bearcats Online Can’t attend the game? Tune in to listen to live audio play-by-play on the Bearcat Sports Network at www.mckbearcats.com/listenlive. Want to stay on top of what is going on with Bearcat Athletics? Sign up online for special fan emails from athletic director Chuck Brueggemann ’88, including insider updates, breaking news, weekly schedules and pre-season/post-season updates. In addition, ‘Follow Us’ on Twitter and ‘Like Us’ on Facebook.
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BEARCATathletics The Final Whistle by Scott Cummings, director of sports information For the last 31 years as a head coach— and for more than 40 years in the coaching profession—Coach Carl Poelker has combined his talents as a coach, a teacher and a parent to leave a long and lasting impression not only at McKendree, but in the world of college football. In November, he announced his retirement as head football coach after a 17-year career with the Bearcats. During his time at the helm, Carl and his coaching staff set the McKendree program on a course of success both on and off the
GAME DAY RITUAL
Before each game, “I would say to myself, ‘Dear God, please don’t make winning more important than these young men out here today.’ The wins and losses are never more important
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football field. Since the Bearcats first took the field back in 1996 after a 45-year absence from the gridiron, he led McKendree to 117 victories, nine national playoff appearances and seven conference titles. “It’s time,” Carl said. “I still love coaching. If I could go out from 4 to 6 p.m. every day and work with the players… I’d probably still continue. But there’s a lot more to this job than that, and that’s why it’s time to step away.” In 1997, he led an upstart McKendree program to an 8-2 overall record and the Bearcats’ first berth in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) playoffs. For his efforts, Carl was
than helping to shape the lives of these men. This is just a game, and if it becomes all about the wins and the losses, then we haven’t done our jobs as coaches, as teachers, as parents. I care about these guys, and we have to give them the right tools to succeed in life.”
named the Schutt Sports-NAIA Coach of the Year. “More than having extremely successful football teams, Carl has developed young men who are making outstanding contributions to our society as doctors, lawyers, educators, law enforcement experts, in the business arena and as coaches in their own right,” said Dr. James Dennis, president. “This is a true statement to his success at McKendree.” In all, Carl has coached 14 All-Americans and 70 All-Conference players. But it is the next set of numbers he holds in even higher regard. During that same time, McKendree has produced 25 national scholar-athletes in the football program,
along with 78 Academic All-Conference performers. Another statistic that speaks volumes at McKendree—99 percent of his players have graduated during his 17-year tenure. “Those are the real victories in this program,” said Carl. “They are the ones that make me realize we’ve done things the right way. These student-athletes have proven over and over they are here to get a good education first, be good citizens and to get the chance to play football.” Carl credits President Dennis and men’s basketball coach Harry Statham—who was the athletic director at the time of his hiring in 1995—with being a big influence on his decision to come to McKendree.
“It’s been a great run,” he said. “The administration, the staff, but most importantly the student-athletes, have made this so special.” Carl was honored in a post-game celebration on Nov. 10, along with the 16 McKendree seniors playing in their final game for the Bearcats. His wife Peg was also recognized as she presented the ceremonial game ball prior to kickoff, and was surrounded by most of the Poelker family, which includes five children and 19 grandchildren.
Check out online guestbook.
FAVORITE GAME OR SEASON
While McKendree football fans can debate their favorite game or favorite season, Carl refuses to single out any particular games. Every game that is played holds special meaning to him, and specific moments that are not necessarily visible to the average fan. “Each one of the games, each one of the classes means something different to me,” he said. “I can go back and pick up defining moments from each year that shaped how I will remember a team. From that first team, I will always remember that pioneer spirit and how we went through everything for the first time together. That second team battled against the odds and made the playoffs. There are frozen moments, events and occasions that helped make every season special. That’s the great thing about this game, and about the young men that we have had here at McKendree.”
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A CULTURE OF
COMMUNITY SERVICE Community service is integral to a McKendree University education; in fact, it is every student’s first assignment. Before they enter a classroom, open a textbook or turn on a computer, new first-year and transfer students are handed a rake, paintbrush, sponge or shovel and sent “Into the Streets” to lend a hand in local communities during orientation weekend. The University was one of 642 colleges and universities named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll in 2012. Its commitment to civic responsibility is reflected in numerous ways. More than 25 courses, from education to computer science to Spanish, link service to academics. Academic scholarships require a student to complete 15 or more service hours. Bearcat athletes provide muscle and manpower to school and community projects on National Youth Service Day. Scholarships are available to high school students who have demonstrated significant community service. Since 1994, the cornerstone of volunteerism on campus has been the Center for Public Service. Under the direction of Dr. Lyn 14
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Huxford, professor of sociology, students coordinate weekly service programs at youth centers and nursing homes, for example. McKendree student outreach benefitted more than 44 local agencies and activities last year, from food banks to animal shelters to the Special Olympics. Thousands of miles from campus, McKendreans have helped document and preserve an indigenous tribe’s music in the rain forest of Ecuador. Last spring, a cross-cultural practicum group cleared litter and debris from a beach in Costa Rica, where they studied sea turtles during the nesting season. Elsewhere in Costa Rica, a Campus Ministries mission group shared fun and fellowship as they built new housing and taught Vacation Bible School. Many have spent an “alternative spring break” delivering supplies and building or painting houses in a small Jamaican community. The spirit of service is thriving at McKendree and far beyond. In these pages, you will meet just a few of our many inspirational students, instructors and alumni who are driven to help others.
UNITED WE SERVE
by Theresa Schmidt ’09
At McKendree, we don’t believe that life begins after college— we believe it begins on day one of your McKendree experience. For Denise Kennedy ’12, McKendree meant discovering her passion to live a life dedicated to service, starting with her work as a Community Service Fellow with McKendree’s Center for Public Service (CPS) and culminating in her current role as an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteer in Service to America) volunteer. She explained, “I wanted to work as a VISTA because it’s a great experience to have on the way to my career goals—to work in a non-profit organization, eventually becoming an undergraduate sociology professor.”
Denise sees McKendree’s commitment to service exemplified by both the professors and the students: “I see a lot of our professors as responsible citizens: Dr. Huxford, Dr. Boudreau, Dr. Collins, Dr. Kemp, Dr. Eggleston—I’ve had too many to list them all! These professors instill a drive for responsible citizenship in their students. Kaitlyne Motl ’06 is a responsible citizen that I really admire and identify with. All of the students on the McKendree Community Action Team really inspire me—they are all hardworking students who make time to fulfill their duties as responsible citizens.”
Not coincidentally, Denise’s biggest influence on responsible citizenship is McKendree sociology professor Dr. Lyn Huxford, who also serves as the CPS advisor. Denise noted, “Service is important to me because it is a chance to give back to a community that has given me countless opportunities to succeed. Dr. Huxford has been the main source of inspiration of my involvement in service. She really pushes me out of my comfort zone to grow as a leader, student and person.”
That relationship network is what Denise loved most about the CPS: “My favorite part of McKendree’s Center for Public Service would be the relationships that are built between the student coordinators. The four years I was a fellow, I made some really great friends. We became a wonderful support system for each other. Some of my responsibilities are similar to my previous role as a Community Service Fellow, but it comes with the added responsibility of leading some of McKendree’s best leaders! I have been helping our volunteer coordinators to enhance our recruitment techniques and reflection discussions.”
In a remarkable turn of events, Denise’s life of service has led her right back to where she started: she is spending her first VISTA year as the coordinator of special programs at McKendree’s CPS. She said, “I wound up back at McKendree because I know that the community service program makes a difference in the lives of our neighbors. For example, my favorite special event would have to be Angel Tree. I think that the campus always shows great generosity by buying gifts for the children of East St. Louis. It’s a wonderful example of McKendree’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.”
In addition, she is working with Lisa Brennan [English professor, assistant director of the Writing Center and coordinator of First Generation Student Success] to develop a Registered Student Organization for our first-generation students. “I am still working on being a good example of a responsible citizen, [and part of] being a responsible citizen means I encourage others to become responsible citizens,” she said.
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LESSONS LEARNED
Giving their time, energy, enthusiasm and manpower, McKendree students often discover they get back something meaningful in return—leadership skills, a different perspective or a new understanding. Students describe some of their experiences as volunteers at weekly programs coordinated by the University’s Center for Public Service: Lebanon and Cedar Ridge Care Centers We play bingo or sometimes we just chat, and this is a nice break from the residents’ daily routine. Helping the elderly is an insight into the lives of people you normally don’t think about in your day-to-day lives. Volunteering weekly there reminds me of the “hidden” faces of America and brings to my mind the elderly in care centers around the nation. —Ken O’Dell, sophomore biology major, Carlyle, Ill. I think that people our age think we have forever and that life is not precious. We forget that one day we will, hopefully, be elderly and that they deserve the same respect—more, actually, than what we give them. —Hannah Johnson, senior sociology major, Carterville, Ill. I never knew I could make such a big difference to someone like I know I am doing at Cedar Ridge. The residents make my Sundays and push me to do better. When I volunteered last year, they made such an impact that I visited them a couple times over the summer. How will this program help me with future challenges? By fixing my attitude. I know the residents depend on our positive attitude; it really helps make their days. At first everyone is a little hesitant with the elderly, but to me they are like a bunch of great aunts and uncles. No matter their age or disability, they are just like anyone else and just need a friend. —Hope Waters, junior music education major, DeSoto, Mo.
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Franklin Neighborhood Association Arts & Crafts, Belleville The children adore us and look up to us as role models. Being able to see their faces each week gives me something to look forward to. I want to be an elementary school teacher and also have my own day care. If I get this excited to see students once a week, I can only imagine how excited I will be once I get my own classroom and my own children. —Autumn Twardowski, junior elementary education major, Herod, Ill.
Bridge the Divide, Special Needs Horse Therapy, St. Jacob When you ask the kids what they look forward to, they say, “Coming back next week.” It is humbling to be a part of something that means so much to them. Participating in this program has really brought me down to earth. Seeing the riders get so excited over the littlest things puts life into perspective. It reminds me to cherish the little things and to take nothing for granted. —Chelsea Knight, sophomore biology major, Toledo, Ill. We give the children a fun getaway, while also giving parents a time to see their kids truly happy. I love seeing those children smile, but I also get to see them improve. I have watched these kids grow and gain confidence. Seeing how much they are able to take away from something as simple as a 30-minute horse ride makes me strive to focus on the little things. —Darren Meeker, senior speech communication major, Charleston, Ill.
Lebanon Outreach—Lebanon Kids, Inc. Tutoring Program Early education is a critical stage in a child’s development, and falling behind at a young age can have devastating effects in the higher grades. By helping the students stay on track in the present, we are improving their chances for success in the future. I have grown as a student and as a leader throughout my time volunteering. I have gained a lot of confidence, learned how to better communicate with children, improved my delivery when explaining concepts for the first time, and become a better problem-solver. —Anthony Rhoads, senior mathematics major, Litchfield, Ill.
Lebanon Outreach at Pentecostal Power Church I love helping others learn and grow, which is why I want to be a teacher. I feel like we are doing very important work here and helping mold these children into great thinkers. We are teaching them how to be better students; they are teaching me how to be a better educator. PPC provides an opportunity to work with many learning styles and helps me master the skill of getting someone’s attention. I have learned to deal with different situations I will experience as a teacher, so this is great practice for my future career. —Edward Howell, senior elementary education major, Makanda, Ill.
Christian Activity Center, East St. Louis The CAC helps keep kids off the streets and brings them to a place of religion, love and safety. Many children that attend do unfortunately live in homes without love, a role model, or fun. Every day (and I am guilty of this) we complain about how hard classes are, we fight with our loved ones, we despise our busy schedules, and we tend to forget that there are other people in the world besides ourselves. I am around kids every week at CAC that have it much worse than a lot of us do. Even though they have it rough, they are enjoying every bit of the day they can, especially the time spent with volunteers. This program means the world to me because I can use my God-given gift of service to benefit these children in a positive way. As a result, I have become a stronger person and developed a more loving heart. —Ashlyn Beasley, junior sport management major, St. Elmo, Ill. I spend time in the gym shooting hoops or playing volleyball. I also tutor and read books to the younger kids. As part of the CAC’s new Pathways College Access and Success Program, I help students achieve their goal of attending college by narrowing down what they would want to study based on what they like to do, and ultimately help with the admission and application process. It has given me a broader outlook on different challenges I face in my life. I can relate the skills I learn from the staff, and the kids, to my own life goals and situations. At the CAC I not only feel like I am influencing their lives, but they are influencing mine in a larger way. —Britani Beasley, sophomore speech communications major, St. Elmo, Ill. The Magazine for
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“I have such a passion to help children with special needs.”
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A VOLUNTEER FOR LIFE by Maegan Beasley ’13
Linking community service to academic learning is a hallmark of a McKendree University education. The University believes volunteerism promotes intellectual development, a sense of social responsibility and active citizenship. One of the easiest ways to get involved is through weekly volunteer opportunities offered by the Center for Public Service (CPS) on campus. Among the most popular is Bridge the Divide, directed by David and Cortland Hendrick at Cornerstone Farms in St. Jacob, Ill. The non-profit organization provides opportunities for children with special needs to ride and help care for horses at no cost. For children with Down’s syndrome, autism or cerebral palsy, the experience can be meaningful, therapeutic and sometimes lifechanging. Bridge the Divide operates year round, giving over 130 free lessons each month. The organization relies heavily on volunteer help—much of it from college students. Jennifer Stroot ’14, a junior education major from O’Fallon, Ill., and a CPS Community Service Scholar, has been McKendree’s Bridge the Divide coordinator since her sophomore year. She and the Hendrick family quickly formed a strong relationship, sharing the belief that “God put us on Earth for a reason.” Jennifer has observed mutually beneficial relationships that develop when special needs children and student volunteers connect. McKendree students can really make a difference in these kids’ lives, she noted. More importantly, they should be open to learning from the children and how they can impact their lives. “The kids are great! It’s neat to see McKendree students come and interact with them,” she said. “The best part of this program is how it spreads awareness. It teaches students to be more sensitive around people and not to judge them by their outward actions.” Volunteers also learn basic horsemanship skills to ensure that all participants feel safe and comfortable. “It is important to know how to multi-task. We not only need to be aware of the children’s safety, we must also be aware of the horses’ safety.” The elementary education major plans to obtain a master’s degree in special education. “I have such a passion to help children with special needs,” she said. Jennifer estimates she has volunteered 100 to 200 hours a year since she started college. Growing up, becoming involved in Girl Scouts and Corpus Christi Church in Shiloh, Ill., drove her
volunteerism and showed her how rewarding helping others could be. She continued Girl Scouts through high school, eventually becoming eligible for the Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest and most prestigious achievement in scouting. Through a seven-step process, it challenges a Scout to make a positive change or solve a problem in her community, both short term and long range. Only 5.4 percent of eligible Girl Scouts successfully earn the award. For her community project, Jennifer organized the Shiloh Easter Egg Hunt as a high school senior. “I saw a need in my community, she said. “The village had a couple of years of struggle to fund the hunt for the town.” Many residents volunteered their time and donated about 10,000 pounds of candy, and 300 kids participated. As a Gold Award recipient, Jennifer is part of an elite group of women who continue to inspire other girls to make a difference in their community. She continues to serve as assistant co-leader of O’Fallon, Ill., Girl Scout Troop #541. Jennifer is also a Golden Apple Scholar, a program that recruits and prepares bright, talented students for successful careers as teachers in high-need schools throughout Illinois. By the time they begin their first teaching job, Scholars acquire over 700 hours of classroom experience in poverty-stricken schools. She travels to Chicago every year to observe in a school where over 85 percent of its students live in poverty. “It really puts a different perspective on things,” she said. “Doing this has made me more aware about how to treat students. You never know what may be going on at home.” As part of all Golden Apple Scholars’ commitment, Jennifer must teach at an Illinois school of need for five years after graduation, within eight years of earning her degree and teacher certification. She believes it will prepare her for lasting success in some of the most challenging teaching environments. Exceptional students like Jennifer volunteer with a joyful heart, taking pride in how they are changing their community for the better. “McKendree has impacted me by seeing how the professors have their own passion for giving back,” she said. “I see them care and invest in their students, and that makes me want to give back to the community like they do.”
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SERVING HIS HOMETOWN by Maegan Beasley ’13
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abor Toth ’13, a senior economics and finance major, proves that 4,800 miles is insignificant when a desire to serve one’s community is strong. Last summer, he flew to Hungary after raising $750 to donate 20 soccer balls and 20 basketballs at four public elementary and high schools in his hometown of Pest. Gabor took the initiative “to increase outdoor activity and promote a positive attitude towards sports.” An honor student, member of McKendree’s Bearcat Rotaract Club, and tennis player, Gabor said he “always had an idea to help” his country. He read that when kids play outdoors, it enhances their focus in the classroom, so he wanted to create a plan involving athletics. “I felt like this would be a nice thing to do, so I passed the idea on and started working,” he said. He quickly started collecting funds. The Bearcat Rotaract Club contributed $150 from a “dorm storm” event. Gabor took this donation and visited other local Rotary clubs last summer. “I did presentations for them to explain the purpose for my project,” he said. Five other Rotary groups, as well as individuals, matched the Bearcats’ donation for a total of $750.
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To avoid the costly shipping expense, Gabor purchased the balls on a trip back to Hungary. The owner of LionSport, a local sporting goods store, also contributed to the project, increasing the collection to $1,000. With this money, Gabor purchased high quality, durable soccer balls and girls’ basketballs to distribute to four schools, including one he had attended. “The schools were really surprised and happy,” he said. “They needed any help they could get and were really thankful for the donations. This is a good thing for the kids.” Gabor wanted his project not only to promote outdoor activity for children, but also to spread awareness among American students. “Hungarian schools aren’t like American schools. Their budget is low and the first thing they cut is sports,” he said. He hopes to continue his project annually, after he graduates from McKendree in May. “I am really grateful for Rotaract, Dr. Martha Eggers and Dr. Randy Wilson; I couldn’t have done this without them,” he said.
CONNECTING WITH PEOPLE by Jaime Ingle
R. Brayton Bowen knows what it’s like to lose a job and start over again. An adjunct instructor at McKendree University for the past 11 years, with more than 25 years of corporate and consulting experience, he recently created the Network for Employment Transition (NET) in Louisville, Ky., to help job seekers begin or jumpstart their careers. NET, a faith-based program, counsels job seekers on resume building, interviewing and networking while coaching other facilitators such as social service agencies and employers to do the same. “I’ve been fired or whatever you want to call it a couple of times,” Brayton chuckled. Losing a job is no laughing matter, but retaining confidence and a sense of humor are crucial to bouncing back from adversity. Many times job seekers need a push in the right direction. That’s when NET steps in to help. “NET has been doing this for the past three years, and we know it takes a ’Ville, (Louisville) to make it happen,” said Brayton, who founded and led the Center for Business Excellence at McKendree’s Louisville and Radcliff, Ky. campuses. “It’s a holistic approach. People have been dressed up with no place to go. We’re trying to change that. We’ve had more than a 75 percent success rate of people finding jobs and services.” Brayton specialized in human resources with corporate America and moved to Louisville for a job in the mid-1980s. In 1991, he started his own consulting firm, Howland Group, which deals with strategy consulting, human resource development, and change management. He is author of “Recognizing and Rewarding Employees” and more than twenty works on leadership, organization culture, and change management. Social responsibility has always been a priority for Brayton which is why NET helps connect job seekers with potential housing and healthcare opportunities. Passionate about giving back to his community, Brayton also serves on the board of the Kentucky Race Track Chaplaincy and is chair of the Backside Ministry for the Church of the Epiphany in neighboring Anchorage, Ky., which serves immigrant workers at Churchill Downs with food, clothing and other special needs. “The workers on the backside care for the horses, and many live in the barns,” said Brayton. “We started out by giving boots to workers and toys to their kids at Christmas, and it morphed into year-round ministry.”
Brayton has been involved with the Ministry for ten years and has coordinated its trackside appeal (a.k.a. Christmas in July), raising nearly $14,000 annually to benefit the workers and families and led the fundraising efforts to purchase a converted school bus that is now used as a classroom for children while their parents attend church services in the adjacent chapel. His leadership has drawn volunteers for the St. Vincent de Paul food kitchen, collectors for a semi-annual truck drive for clothing and household effects, and more recently volunteer agencies to support a regional job seekers conference. In November, he was recognized with the James E. Flynn Peacemaking Award, established in 1992 by the Church of the Epiphany Social Responsibility Committee. The award honors a parishioner who, on a local, national or international basis, has responded to the call of the Gospel and Catholic social teaching to make a significant contribution in the area of social justice.
Read more service stories online. • • • •
Rick Devore ’13 Courtney Motl ’13 Zach Turpen ’13
McKendree’s 2013 Humanitarian Awards: Dr. Constance Rockingham ’75, Lance Allen ’13, and Karan
Onstott, associate professor of health promotion and wellness
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TAKEfive Dr. Peter Will
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r. Peter Will, who teaches management classes and principles of finance, is the 2012 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award and the 2011 Grandy Faculty Award winner. A lifelong learner, in 30 years he earned bachelor’s degrees in chemistry, industrial technology and business administration; an MBA in general management, a master’s in financial economics, and a doctorate in biochemistry. He was a research scientist and industrial manager at the general pharmaceutical company Hoffmann-LaRoche until he returned to the classroom for good. What prompted you to change careers? I was working in the lab on research for many years, and enjoying that process. I thought it was going to be my career. One day my boss asked me to go to a product team meeting for him, and this sort of brave new world opened in front of me. There were scientists there, but there were also marketing people, production people, from places in the company I didn’t know existed. Suddenly this sounded really, really interesting. Hoffmann-LaRoche had a liberal 22
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Q&A
education tuition policy, so I started taking some classes. I realized that I had so little business knowledge that I started at the bachelor’s level again and just worked through it over time. A few years later, I met a guy at Fairleigh Dickinson University who was looking for someone with industry experience to teach on that part of the pharmaceutical industry. That match was perfect and I moved over there. I had taught anatomy at Case Western Reserve and I really liked teaching. What do you enjoy most about it? Interacting with students. They are my highest priority. I don’t think of myself as a professor, I think of myself as a teacher. You’re a big supporter of student events and athletics. I go to a lot of things because the students are involved in them. I like sports, I like music. My father was a potter; my son is a painter; my son and daughter-in-law run a gallery in Philadelphia. Art is part of my life, so going to an art show is something I really enjoy. Curiously enough, the art gene skipped me. When I draw something on the board, my students laugh.
You are a Lebanon Rotary Club past president and you help find hosts for international visitors through the World Affairs Council. On campus, you serve on the Student Affairs and Distinguished Speakers Series committees, advise the Alpha Phi Omega national service fraternity and organize its Red Cross blood drives. What inspires this?
Alpha Phi Omega (APO) is deep in my heart. It was founded by the Boy Scouts. I’m an Eagle Scout, so it is sort of my soul. APO is a service organization. I think of service more as sharing. I like to share what I have, whether it’s cartoons on my door that I’ve cut out of the newspaper, or a news article for another faculty member. I focus on the kind of service that gives me satisfaction and that I see a need for. How has your role as Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) changed as the athletic program transitions to the NCAA? I was made FAR about seven years ago. In the NAIA world, I was expected to support the student-athletes if they had problems with a professor or whatever,
but my involvement was pretty minor. When we started to go after NCAA Division II, I was on the committee to discuss it and look at it from different perspectives. Then the decision was made and I got more involved in that. What boosted things beyond anyone’s expectation was when we were selected for the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC). It is one of the singular conferences in the NCAA, especially D-II, for a number of reasons. It has very high GPA student-athletes, and some very top notch schools. One factor that makes the GLVC practically unique in the NCAA world, is that the voting entity within the conference is the FAR. I carry the vote for McKendree in the GLVC. That is really unusual. It has put far more responsibility and involvement on me than ever before. Interestingly enough, it falls into my teaching world. One of the big things we talk about in the management world is change. Well, the last three years have been about managing change! It’s extremely exciting. We’ve put our heart and soul into it. It’s a vision that we deeply believe in. One thing that’s hard to transmit is the magnitude of change, the tiny little things—literally thousands of them—that had to change. Athletic departments don’t join the NCAA; universities and colleges do. You have to change the records office, admissions, business office, financial aid, IT stuff. We’re partners on a team.
(lesbian-gay-bisexual-transgendered) issues, rights and so on. Suddenly, I remembered something from grade school. We were learning to write, and a little boy in the next row, they tied his left hand down because we weren’t supposed to write with our left hand. He wasn’t doing anything wrong. Retrospectively, it sort of frightened me. Why would you do that? Handedness is a natural choice. All of us make it, left-handed or right-handed. Well, there is another natural choice we make: straight or gay. That comparison came to me last spring and I realized, this is really important and we’ve got to do something about it. As FAR, I have a bully pulpit. So we had two LGBT sensitivity training sessions in August; one for the coaching and athletic staff and one for Student Affairs, RAs, RDs, Admission—people that interact with students the most. The football players were to arrive the next day, so I wanted to have this top of mind. Through the GLVC we got a microgrant for a sensitivity training speaker, a poster campaign, and three magazine subscriptions for the LGBT community on campus. Those three things set a base for the first year, to build awareness. I believe in visions. Getting involved in LGBT issues has been the latest challenge. I’ve never done anything like this before; I’m a chemist! Nothing prepared me for this. But I think nothing prepares you for a lot of real challenges.
How did the new sport management major come about? It was student-driven. In 2005, they said, “We’d be really interested in taking something in sport management.” So I had to do some research. I taught it every other year. We had no trouble filling the classes. Clearly there was an inherent interest. We started realizing if it has “sport” in the name, our students are really paying attention. During the early years of working toward NCAA, we started doing some accounting of how many student-athletes we had. Over 46 percent of our student body was in varsity sports—not counting junior varsity, intramurals or cheerleaders. Probably have more than half of our student body is involved in athletics. If we talk about people that are involved in “sport”—including hunting, fishing, auto racing, etc.—it’s pushing threequarters. That is a huge number. It’s a reflection of society; it’s not unique to McKendree. For the number of sports that are played, we have about the same number of student-athletes as Ohio State. They have more sports, so you adjust for that, but a football team, a basketball team is the same size. I expect our sport management program to just take off like crazy. And the athletic equipment side of the major is the only one in the United States. What would people be surprised to know about you?
How do you challenge yourself ? Are you a sports fan? I try to do things that I think need to be done that I’ve never done before. And it’s scary. Let me give you an example. I’d gone to a couple of NCAA national meetings in 2011 and 2012, and there were major workshops and presentations about diversity—particularly gender diversity, gender equity and LGBT
I’ve followed professional baseball since I was about ten. Growing up in Red Oak, Iowa, my best friend was a Cardinals fan, so I semi-randomly picked the Braves and followed them forever. When (manager) Bobby Cox retired, it was the end of an era, and I switched to the Cardinals.
I have about 800 slide rules. I’ve collected them for probably 25 years, back to my science days when you carried your slide rule on your belt. I also collect art.
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ALUMNInews H o m e c o m i n g a n d R e u n i o n We e k e n d 2 0 1 2 M e m o r i e s
Four Inducted into Sports Hall of Fame Four very familiar names to fans of Bearcat athletics were inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame in 2012. Harry Statham ’60, of Swansea, Ill., the all-time wins leader in men’s college basketball history, is currently in his 47th season as head coach. Beginning his coaching career at the high school level, he returned to his alma mater in 1966 to embark on what has become one of college basketball’s most remarkable careers. His teams won 12 AMC championships, and he led McKendree to 15 appearances at the NAIA Division I Championship. He is currently the only men’s basketball coach at the four-year level with over 1,000 wins, trailing only former University of Tennessee women’s coach
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Pat Summitt in overall victories. Harry is also the all-time leader in games coached at the collegiate level, at 1,488 as of Jan. 15, 2013. Brian Dinkelman ’06, of Centralia, Ill., was a three-time NAIA All-American in baseball. He was drafted by the Minnesota Twins after he graduated from McKendree and played 23 games in the major league in 2011, batting .301. By the time his college career ended, he held or shared 25 McKendree program records, 24 of which still stand. At the national level, Brian broke five NAIA career records, including the prestigious hits record with 373. He also established new national records for doubles (96), runs scored (303), total bases (670) and fielding assists (679). In 2006, Brian was the NAIA Player of the Year. Scott Mehring ’03, of Rochester, Ill., was a three-year starter on perhaps the most memorable team in Bearcat
football history. As a senior, he anchored the offensive line and helped lead the Bearcats to an 11-2 overall record, a Mid-States Football Association— Midwest League championship and a berth in the semifinal round of the NAIA Football Championship Series. Scott and his teammates blocked for a unit that led the NAIA in rushing offense, piling up more than 4,200 yards in the 2002 season. Karen (Eversgerd) Hoelscher ’94, of Germantown, Ill., was one of the most dominant volleyball players of her era. A two-time All-Conference performer, she established many McKendree records that still rank in the top five of the team’s record book. She remains the Bearcats’ career leader with 667 blocks, and is the only player in program history with consecutive seasons of at least 250 blocks (1991 and 1992). In 1992, Karen set a team record with 78 service aces, a mark that still stands.
Akers Award The Reverend Dr. Donald Lowe ’48, of Bloomington, Ill., received the 2012 Peter Akers Award for professional success, outstanding service and loyalty to McKendree. Don earned a degree in philosophy and religion before he began his career in the United Methodist Church, which spanned more than 60 years. He is an emeritus member of the Board of Trustees, on which he served for 36 years. He is a member of the William McKendree Society for donors and, with other family members and the Kinmundy UMC, established the Cecil C. and Agnes C. Lowe Endowment Fund to provide scholarships.
The McKendree PomCats show their spirit during Breast Cancer Awareness month.
Homecoming King and Queen Zane Maus ’13 and Courtney Motl ’13.
Loyal Service Award Carmett “Corky” Helms ’59, of Belleville, Ill., received the 2012 Loyal Service Award. A long-standing member of the Alumni Association Board, he volunteers at campus events and chaired the McKendree History Committee, which compiled data for a book about the institution from 1928 to 1978. A former science teacher and grade school principal, Corky retired after 42 years. His civic involvement has included the Optimist Club, Greater Belleville Science Fair, Illinois Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Foundation, Illinois Prairie State Longhorn Association, 4-H and Whiteside School Board.
Save the Date! Homecoming and Alumni Reunion Weekend Women’s head lacrosse coach Brittany Poist and her dog, Sadie, decked out in purple for the parade.
October 4-6, 2013
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ALUMNInews H o m e c o m i n g a n d R e u n i o n We e k e n d 2 0 1 2 M e m o r i e s
Academy of Excellence Four alumni entered the Academy of Excellence in 2012, representing outstanding contributions to the nursing and health professions, the social sciences, business, and community service. Clayton Thornhill ’95, of Columbia, Ill., a senior regional human resource manager for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., is featured on page 27.
Rising Star Award Bernadette Schrempp ’03, of Mascoutah, Ill., received McKendree’s 2012 Rising Star Award. She is a St. Clair County assistant state’s attorney, felony prosecutor and a member of the St. Clair Bar Association. Bernadette speaks to police and criminal justice classes, and participates in community and school programs that promote safety. She returns to her alma mater to participate in Scholarship Weekend and to teach business law courses.
John Suarez ’91, of Belleville, Ill., received a degree in speech communication from McKendree, where he was on the newspaper staff and a member of Lambda Pi Eta. He is the associate director of career services for DeVry University and the Keller Graduate School of Management in St. Louis. In 2010, he was named a top 20 contributor to the resume writing and career coaching industry over the last 20 years. The former alumni board member returns to campus to volunteer at Scholarship Weekend and the Career Readiness Conference. For 12 years he has assisted communication students with graduate school preparation, resume writing and job search strategies. Lt. Col. Richard Holt ’87, of Caseyville, Ill., is associate director of
Guests mingle in the lobby of the Regency Conference Center prior to the Alumni Awards Dinner on Oct. 6.
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patient care services and nurse executive for the Veterans Affairs St. Louis Health Care System. Prior to entering the Air Force Nurse Corps, the 23-year Air Force veteran had a successful 10-year career as a critical care nurse in open heart and cardiovascular thoracic surgery and held numerous civilian nurse manager and supervisor positions. Richard goes on frequent mission trips to Rwanda, works in the community with fatherless young boys and men, and mentors student nurses at home and overseas. Dan Netemeyer ’88, of Belleville, Ill., a graduate of the criminal justice program, is assignment supervisor over the Violent Crime Squad for the St. Louis FBI office. Throughout his career he has led several high profile investigations, including the Alisa Maier child abduction in Missouri and a $66 million armored car facility robbery. Both cases were brought to successful conclusions under his leadership. At McKendree, Dan was a part of New Student Orientation and Pi Lambda Tau fraternity, and he played on the baseball team for four years. He continues to support Bearcat athletics and campus events. He coaches a Mascoutah Athletic Association baseball team and the Quakes Baseball Academy College Exposure team.
for Racial Harmony is a grass roots organization dedicated to making a difference in the Metro East community through partnerships with schools, local municipalities, community leaders, and business organizations to provide services, such as community forums, speakers, character education programs, mediation, and training in conflict resolution. Additionally, Clayton has been actively involved in Challenge 12, an organization which celebrates and develops exceptional students in Belleville, Ill., and surrounding communities who exhibit and model twelve key pillars of character.
Excellence in Service by Angela (Grossmann) Roewe ’98 Clayton Thornhill ’95 never expected to be recognized for doing what he believes is right. It’s his life mission to make this world a better place while helping those in need—to him it’s all in a day’s work. But on Oct. 6, McKendree University recognized him by bestowing upon him one of the Alumni Association’s highest honors—an Academy of Excellence Award for Community Service. Clayton, a Columbia, Ill., resident, was presented with the annual award during the Lebanon Homecoming Alumni Dinner. In Clayton’s case, he was recognized for his involvement with The Center for Racial Harmony’s Board of Directors, and for remaining close to his alma mater as an active volunteer and parttime business instructor in the McKendree AiM program. The Center
Clayton currently serves as the senior regional human resource manager for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. He is responsible for 81 stores in southern Illinois, southern Indiana, and western Kentucky and leads all human resource functions that encompass a $5-billion-dollar portfolio of business and greater than 18,000 associates. His favorite aspect of his job is the personal interaction with the associates and the customers, especially making a difference in their lives—small or big. “I particularly love playing a role in developing Wal-Mart associates to reach their career goals, whatever they may be,” he said. “And, my employer is very committed to the communities we serve, which furthers my volunteer and community outreach efforts.” Clayton has made it his goal to be an ambassador for community outreach in the Metropolitan St. Louis area and has worked tirelessly to make a difference, particularly around causes involving the development of young people, diversity and inclusion, and environmental sustainability. For his outstanding community service efforts Clay was
awarded the 2011 Award of Merit for Community Service from the Urban League, St. Louis Chapter and the 2011 Carol Kimmel Community Service Award from SIUE. While serving on active duty in the U.S. Air Force, staff sergeant Thornhill completed his undergraduate degree in business administration and marketing in McKendree’s Center at Scott Air Force Base accelerated evening program. During his time as a student, he was deployed to assist the citizens of Mogadishu, Somalia Africa, who were embattled in a bitter, civil war. Clayton retired from the Air Force in 1995. Clayton continues to visit the Lebanon campus and gives back by participating in numerous alumni events. “It was always a big treat to take a class on the beautiful campus in Lebanon,” he said. “I saw the camaraderie and family atmosphere that a modest-sized university could provide. I appreciated the intimate class sizes, and saw that the faculty was very involved in various activities both within the university and in the community. From these experiences, I determined that if I had the opportunity, I would try to make a difference, as well. For that reason, I have actively participated in alumni days, mock interview panels, scholarship panels, etc. McKendree provided me a great foundation in life; I want to ensure I’m doing my part to pay-it-forward to the next generation of business and community leaders.” Clayton, and his wife Beth MBA ’12, have two children, Tyler, 17, and Grant, 14.
View acceptance speeches online.
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ONcampus ALUMNInews H o m e c o m i n g a n d R e u n i o n We e k e n d 2 0 1 2 M e m o r i e s
News Briefs
June Leckrone ’52 and Joy (Kendall) Sulzer ’52 mingle at the All-Class Reunion.
Michelle Voegele ’12, Dawn Dili ’04, MAED ’09, Melissa Funk ’12 and Mike Valentine at the School of Education Reunion breakfast.
A full house attended the annual worship service. Rev. Jackie Havis-Shear ’00 gave the keynote address and the alumni choir performed.
Football fans cheer the Bearcats on to victory, over William Jewell 3520, extending the streak of homecoming game victories to 17.
Members of the Class of 1962 at the Golden Reunion, from l. to r.: Mary (Swan) Metzger-Harris, Ione (Kolm) Pence, Larry Cook, Linda (Seay) Lee, Billy Rushing, Carol (Loyet) Lentz, Charles Korunka Jr., and Roger Knox.
Enjoying the picnic!
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Then and Now: Dances McKendree’s first college dances 50 years ago were a lot louder than the 2012 Homecoming party. Alumni from the early 1960s remember doing the Cha Cha, Twist or Mashed Potato to future golden oldies like “Blue Moon” and “Runaround Sue,” or swaying cheek-to-cheek to “Stand By Me” and “Are You Lonesome Tonight.” Fast forward to the “Headphone Disco” silent dance party of Homecoming 2012. A concept that originated in Europe and spread to college campuses across the U.S., it featured two DJs playing different songs
simultaneously over wireless two-channel headphones. Part of the crowd blasted “Party Rock Anthem” or “Good Feeling” through their headphones; others tuned in to “Red Solo Cups” or “Call Me Maybe.” “We wanted to try something new and completely different this year to entertain our students,” explained Craig Robertson, director of campus activities. “Members of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) had participated in ‘Headphone Disco’ at our national convention and thought it would be a great program to bring to McKendree. While initially some students were skeptical, those who attended the dance had a great time. They liked that they could request songs and choose between two channels of music.”
Robertson said it was “a bit awkward at first, but you could actually carry on a conversation with friends without having to talk over loud music, and our light show gave the event a ‘club’ feel. We’ve received a lot of requests to bring ‘Headphone Disco’ back.” Another first: The Homecoming King and Queen announcement was made during the dance—over headphones. In keeping with the Homecoming theme, the CAB Traditions Committee charged a “Once Upon a Time” admission price of $5.
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ALUMNInews profile
Maria (Stallings) Page ’89, MAED ’06
Put students first and their test scores generally showcase that fact. so young, I wanted to find a small school where I could learn and grow without getting lost in the crowd.” And she was serious about being young. As far as records indicate, Maria’s graduation from McKendree at only 19 years old makes her the youngest graduate in modern history. Twice, during elementary school and high school, Maria was so far ahead of the established coursework that she advanced a grade, ultimately leading to an early high school graduation at age 15.
Head of the Class by Angela (Grossmann) Roewe ’98 Leaving a mark on students in a classroom isn’t always easy, but Maria (Stallings) Page ’89, MAED ’06, had great teachers herself, which makes her job as a middle school teacher that much easier. Growing up in Centreville, Ill., she and her family were aware of McKendree’s good reputation and phenomenal history; however they did not discover all it had to offer until Maria’s elder sister, Audra, attended. Maria followed her sister when she graduated from high school in 1985. “Because my sister was a commuter student, the proximity of McKendree to our home afforded me the opportunity to visit the campus numerous times,” she said. “I came to love the people I met and the events that encouraged a close-knit campus atmosphere, and because I was
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Not only did she follow in her sisters footsteps, her mother’s career as an educator helped shape her path to becoming a teacher. In 1989, she graduated with a degree in English and secondary education and later returned to obtain a master’s degree in education. “I knew that if I chose the education profession, I would want to teach the subject that allows the greatest amount of self-expression,” she said. She now teaches creative writing and video journalism to seventh and eighth grade students in the Ladue (Mo.) School District. She also leads a unique eighth grade class called “St. Louis Adventure,” where students first learn about the history of the city, then study city maps, streets, and the public transportation system. Armed with their classroom knowledge, the students then travel from Ladue Middle School to downtown St. Louis to visit organizations for a career exploration day. “We partner with major corporations and private entities that are willing to engage our students in dialogues
about their companies and the career opportunities within them,” she said. “In past years, my students have visited Ameren Missouri, Peabody Opera House, KMOV, The Fox Theatre, and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, just to name a few.” The class affords the students an opportunity to apply acquired knowledge to real-world situations. She absolutely loves the rewarding feeling that comes from being a teacher. “I love seeing students excited to participate in the learning process,” she said. “It is also quite rewarding when students return a year or two later to thank me for something I taught them. They often comment that they were not necessarily grateful at the time, but they later recognize the importance of the lesson.” Maria is proud of the district she teaches in because its educators “put students first and their test scores generally showcase that fact.” In 2011-2012, the district was named the Missouri School of Character. As a member of the Character Education committee, Maria was responsible for assisting with the compilation of information used to obtain this distinguished character status. And with the little free time she has between teaching, assisting with Ladue School District groups and functions, and raising a family, she is playing a large role at McKendree as the Alumni Association president and a Board of Trustees member. Elected in June, Maria has been involved in the association for several years, serving as first-vice president and homecoming chair. She says she is ready to take the reins and lead the organization in a new direction.
Meet the Alumni Board 1st Row Maria (Stallings) Page ’89 & ’06 Bruce Hogan ’71 2nd Row Bob Hardy ’76 Amy Suydam ’05 3rd Row David Philip ’70 Megan (Weiler) Connelly ’05 4th Row Dr. Constance Rockingham ’75 Kathleen Duckworth ’89 5th Row Dana Barnard ’00 Wendy LaBenne ’97 6th Row Ryan Furniss ’00 Rev. Dr. Victor Long ’83 7th Row Amy (Baer) Venhaus ’09 Connie (Holzinger) Elmore ’86 John Schomaker ’80 8th Row Dennis Korte ’70 Marianna (Davis) Romine ’69 Top Row Rev. Dr. Miley Palmer ’58 Not Pictured Ellen Carey ’04 Erin Conner ’08 Chris Mitchell ’99 Jennifer Sullivan ’96
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CLASSnotes 60’s
70’s
Edward Tuten ’62 is the executive secretary of the New England Appraisers Association, an international association for appraisers of antiques, collectibles, and personal property.
Linda (Wall) Walcher ’71 received the Illinois Education Association’s Mary Lou and Keith Hauge Retired Teacher of the Year Award for her work with the IEA Retired Mentor Program. She is a retired educator and coordinator of the statewide mentoring program.
Rev. David Nottrott ’64, and wife, Theresa (Dawe) Nottrott ’64, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a family gathering. Other McKendree alumni members pictured are (back row, l. to r.) Nathan Nottrott ’15, Karen (Nottrott) Monitto ’68, Sebastian Monitto ’69, and Hannah Johnson ’13.
Randy Strube ’77 retired in June 2012, after 35 years as a teacher and school librarian. He resides in Dubuque, Iowa.
80’s Michael Buettner ’82 was appointed to the Illinois Supreme Court Probation Policy Advisory Board. He is currently the director of court services and probation for the 20th Judicial Circuit.
Peggy (Garrett) Eggers ’69 passed down her crown as the Ms. Senior Missouri 2011 on July 8, 2012. The annual pageant, presented by the Missouri Cameo Club, exemplifies the elegance of women over the age of 60. Rosemary Maloney ’69 received the Quasquicentennial Distinguished Service Award for “outstanding contributions to the Christian faithful of Southern Illinois” at the Diocesan Jubilee celebration held on April 29, 2012.
What’s New With You? Have you moved recently? Have you had a career or family change? Do you need to just update your email address? We want to hear from you. Email your new contact information to alumni@mckendree.edu.
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Charlie Caciano ’82, left, rode in his second Pan Massachusetts Challenge, a 2-day, 200 mile bike ride from Sturbridge to Provincetown, to fund cancer research and treatment at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. He commits to this effort because 100 percent of every rider-raised dollar is donated directly to research and treatment at the Cancer Institute. Leslie (Carns) Lehman ’83 is a first-grade teacher in the Coulterville Unified School District in Coulterville, Ill. Kent Zimmerman ’83 completed his master’s degree in business administration in October 2012 at Webster University in St. Louis, Mo.
Debra BethardCaplick ’87 was presented a life membership as an Illinois Jaycees Ambassador #262 in July 2012. She is the managing partner in Quicksilver Edge Strategic Communications, a public relations and marketing communications firm in Chicago, Ill., with offices in Wilkes-Barre, Penn., and Irvine, Calif. Peggy Gerdes ’88 completed her doctorate degree in nursing practice in May 2012 at Saint Louis University in St. Louis, Mo. Pamela Knobeloch ’88 received a Those Who Excel Award of Excellence from the Illinois State Board of Education in October 2012. She is principal at West Jr. High School in Belleville, Ill. Jim Thompson ’89 was inducted into the Trenton American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame in March 2012. The former coach is also a member of the Wesclin High School Basketball Hall of Fame. He is a medical sales representative in the Specialty Eye and Ear Department with Alcon Labs.
90’s James Cavins ’90 was promoted to the rank of lieutenant with the O’Fallon Police Department in October 2012 and deputy commander with the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis in March 2012. Thomas Forsyth ’90 is lead business intelligence data modeler at Mercy Technology Services in St. Louis, Mo. Russell Williams ’90 is the director of the Brehm School Foundation in Carbondale, Ill. The Foundation serves students with complex learning disabilities. Russell, and his wife, Rocio Reyes Williams have a three-year-old son, David.
Robert Jordan ’91 is the supervisor for the KentuckianaWorks One-Stop Career Centers in Louisville, Ky. George Johns ’94 is controller of Triad Manufacturing, a St. Louis based manufacturer of retail store fixtures. Matt Gordon ’96 released his first small business marketing book in September 2012 on Amazon.com. His book became a number one bestseller in the Direct Marketing category and was named Amazon’s number one “Hot New Release” for “Marketing” and “Marketing and Sales.” Jennifer Thompson ’97 performed a special concert entitled “An Evening with Jennifer Thompson and Friends” for Kaskaskia College’s Veterans Tribute project on Sept. 11, 2012. Creo Argue ’98 is an aftercare/parole supervisor with the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice. He oversees the Cook County juvenile aftercare/parole program. Chris Mitchell ’99 served as the chairperson of the College Sports Information Directors of America St. Louis local organizing committee for its annual convention held June 23-26, 2012 in St. Louis, Mo.
Matthew Olmsted ’01 and Stephanie Weaver ’02 visited Phuket, Thailand for five days in April 2012. Natalie Schrey ’01 is a biology instructor at Armstrong Atlantic State University in Savannah, Ga.
With all of our official online networks, staying in touch with your friends and classmates after graduation and connecting with McKendree alumni has never been so easy! Sign up for one of our online networks today! Facebook—Become a fan of the Bogey D. Bearcat alumni group on the most popular online networking site in the world. Stay connected, catch up with classmates, and see what is happening on campus.
Colin Adams ’02 and Chandra Henry were married on April 7, 2012. Colin is a business development coach for Edward Jones Investments in Jacksonville, Fla. Pamela Sommerhauser ’02 was promoted to associate athletic trainer at Loyola University-Maryland in Baltimore, Md. Kate (Beanblossom) Stehl ’04 is a cytogenetics technologist at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo. Kim Greenlee ’05, MAED ’06 and Donald Cooper were married in August 2010.
Kevin Welch ’99 is the branch supervisor at The Bank of Edwardsville in O’Fallon, Ill.
Tabitha Meador ’05 is a legislative aide for the Illinois 107th District State Rep. John Cavaletto.
00’s
David Rhodes ’05 and René Pickett were married on Aug. 18, 2012 at St. Mary’s Church in Bristol, R.I. He is a customer development manager for Ryder System Inc. and also serves as head assistant football coach for Carver High School in Carver, Mass.
Elisha (Ratterman) Ballard ’01 was crowned Mrs. Kentucky in October 2011 and competed in the Mrs. America pageant in Tucson, Ariz. in August 2012. She is national sales manager of Road Dog Industrial in Louisville, Ky.
Staying Connected Has Never Been So Easy!
Linkedin—For our professionals (or new graduates), we encourage you to connect with other McKendree alumni on LinkedIn. Discover business opportunities, search for great jobs, make inside connections that can help you land jobs, and get introduced to fellow alumni through this networking site.
Tiffanie Douglas ’06 was recognized as the 2012 Advisor of the Year at the University of Texas at Dallas. She is assistant director of Student AccessAbility and advisor for the Golden Key International Honor Society and Delta Alpha Pi. Nickolas Francescon ’06 graduated from the Department of Criminal Justice Services 18-week police training academy in Richmond, Va. He is employed with the Paducah Police Department in Paducah, Ky.
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CLASSnotes Lisa Motch ’06 is a licensed practical nursing program coordinator and assistant professor of nursing at Kaskaskia College in Centralia, Ill.
Abbey Smith ’06 and Joel Meyer were married on Nov. 3, 2012. She is employed by Bethalto Community Unit School District in Bethalto, Ill. Deidra (Thomas) Doerr ’07, and husband Cory, welcomed Nicholas Henry, on July 19, 2012. Dr. Lora Nation ’07 graduated from Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine in June 2011. She is practicing as an associate general dentist in Quincy, Ill.
Alumni Awards Call for Nominations The Alumni Association is looking for leaders—graduates of McKendree University who have shown strong leadership in their careers, outstanding service to the community, and success in athletics or other notable accomplishments. Each year during Homecoming weekend, the McKendree University Alumni Association proudly presents the Academy of Excellence Awards; Loyal Service Award; Peter Akers Award; Rising Star Awards; and Sports Hall of Fame Awards to deserving McKendree alumni. To nominate an individual for one of these awards, email alumni@mckendree.edu. The deadline is March 31, 2013.
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Katie Sledge ’07 and Stephen Haas were married on March 25, 2011. Katie works at Lewis and Clark Community College in Godfrey, Ill. Kelly Beiermann ’08 and Grant Evans were married on May 12, 2012. Gary Best ’08 works in the communications department at Keller Laboratories in Fenton, Mo. Jayme Blandford ’08 is an assistant professor of English at St. Charles Community College in Cottleville, Mo. Stephen Gregory ’08 graduated from St. Louis University Medical School in May 2012. He is currently a transitional resident at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis, Mo., and will start his anesthesiology residency at Duke University Medical Center in July 2013.
Amber Harris ’08 and Keith Hardy ’07 were married on April 21, 2012 in O’Fallon, Ill. She is a financial service specialist for Regions Bank in Belleville, Ill. He is a backroom team member at Target in Shiloh, Ill. Courtney Logan ’08 is an assistant state’s attorney for St. Clair County, Ill. In May 2012, he graduated from Saint Louis University School of Law in St. Louis, Mo. Whitney Ruebhausen ’08 and Scott Threinen were married on Oct. 22, 2011. She is a high school English teacher in Minnesota and is working to obtain her master’s degree in literature. Allison Salvato ’08 is a guidance counselor at Marshall High School in Marshall, Ill. Ashley (Garland) Simpson ’08 is a foster care caseworker with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
Aaron Povolish ’06 and Amanda Harris were married on Sept. 15, 2012. Several McKendree alumni were part of the wedding party including James Dauer ’07; C.J. Dulaney ’05, MBA ’08; Stephanie (Coartney) Dulaney ’10; Michael Prince ’07, MBA ’10; Curtis Stahl ’06; Monica (Todich) Stahl ’06; Brent Tebbe ’07 and Tina (Napper) Tebbe ’08.
Tina Wolfe ’08 is the director of the Centralia Correctional Center Education Program at Kaskaskia College in Centralia, Ill.
Emily Best ’09 and Daniel Van Natta were married on Oct. 20, 2012 in Bothwell Chapel. Brian Greathouse ’09 retired in 2010. He is an adjunct chemistry instructor at Lindenwood University in Belleville, Ill., and an adjunct metallurgy instructor at Southwestern Illinois College in Granite City, Ill.
Are You the Next K–12 Teacher of the Year? The School of Education is seeking nominations for the University’s 2013 “Teacher of the Year.” You must be a School of Education graduate; a current K-12 teacher with at least three years of experience in St. Clair, Madison, Clinton, Washington or Monroe County; and available to attend the Dinner for Cooperating Teachers on Apr. 23 at the Hett. The winner will receive four tickets to the awards
dinner and two all-sports passes to McKendree Bearcats games. If interested, submit a professional biography that explains your commitment to teaching; two letters of recommendation, one each from an administrator and a colleague;and a curriculum vitae to Dr. Darryn Diuguid at drdiuguid@mckendree.edu or Dr. Timothy Richards at trichard@mckendree.edu by March 1, 2013. Mailed entries should be addressed to McKendree University, PAC 208, 701 College Rd., Lebanon, IL 62254.
Submit your Class Note McKendree likes to boast about its Bearcats and now is your chance to share your good news with us! Let classmates, faculty and staff know what you have been up to since your days at McKendree. Share with us your professional accomplishments, such as job changes, promotions and awards, or personal milestones, such as advanced degrees earned, marriages or births. Please note the information that is published in The Magazine for McKendree may be subject to the availability of space and editing. Due to the high volume of class notes received and the long lead time required for typesetting, design, and printing, submissions may not be printed in the issue immediately following their receipt. All photos should be saved in a .tif or .jpg format and have a resolution of 300 dpi. .jpg photos should be at least 800KB or larger in size; .tif photos should be at least 3MB or larger in size. You may submit your class note by emailing your name, class year, and any relevant information to alumni@mckendree.edu; by filling out the form at www.mckendree.edu/classnotes; or by mailing the form below to the McKendree University Office of Alumni Relations, 701 College Road, Lebanon, IL 62254.
Name: ________________________________________________ E-mail:_________________________________________________ Employer: ___________________________________________ Job Title:_________________________________________________ Day Phone: ____________________________________ Evening Phone:_________________________________________________ Home Address: ________________________________________________________________ City: __________________________________ State:__________ Zip: __________________
Campus/Year: ________________
Any news to share (education advancements, career changes, marriages, births, awards, etc.)? ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
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Check here if you are interested in learning about volunteer opportunities at McKendree University.
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CLASSnotes Trenetia (Young) Hammond ’09 is an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer and is working as a strategic planner for Family Service, Inc. in Billings, Mont.
Ivan Stoyanov ’09 recently completed the Six Sigma Black Belt Certificate and was promoted to account delivery manager for the UK and Ireland region for HewlettPackard. He resides in Bulgaria.
Jenny Kohnz ’09 is the head volleyball coach at Valmeyer High School in Valmeyer, Ill. She led the team to its first ever Illinois State Class 1A volleyball final four in November 2012. Samantha Leonard ’09 graduated from the University of Wisconsin Law School in May 2012, and was awarded the Benard Berk Memorial Award for outstanding contributions to the economically disadvantaged for her work with survivors of domestic violence. She is a civil liberties education and legal research adviser at the ACLU in Madison, Wisc. Theresa Schmidt ’09 is the office support associate in the University Relations/ Alumni Affairs department at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, Ill.
Molly (Britton) Tiede ’09 is the assistant lighting designer at the Boston Lyric Opera in Boston, Mass. Read her story online at www.mckendree.edu/home. Rebecca (Lindstrom) Wohltman ’09 is an assistant attorney general with the Office of the Missouri Attorney General in St. Louis, Mo.
10’s Jessica Bathon ’10, MBA ’11 is a contract specialist with DISA/DITCO. Chelsea Hettenhausen ’10 and Steve Simmons were married on May 19, 2012 at the Pere Marquette Lodge in Grafton, Ill. She currently attends law school at Michigan State University. Ryan Huelsmann ’10, MBA ’11 is the assistant comptroller at CTS Technology Solutions, Inc. in Sparta. Ill. Elizabeth Juehne ’10, MAED ’12 was promoted to director of financial aid at McKendree.
Homecoming & Alumni Reunion Weekend October 4-6, 2013 FOOTBALL
Homecoming registration form and complete details coming soon! Online registration and a full schedule of events will be coming soon at McKendree.edu/homecoming or call (618) 537-6826.
FAMILY
We hope to see you on campus in October!
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Do you have a new Bearcat in your family? Send an announcement and photo of your little Bearcat and he/she may be printed in a future edition of The Magazine for McKendree. Please send high-resolution digital images to alumni@mckendree.edu.
Matthew Belosi ’98, and wife Stacy, announce the birth of triplets, Molly, Sawyer and Tess, on July 13, 2012.
Crystal (Miller) Glaenzer ’03, and husband Zach, welcomed their first child, Adley Jane, on June 19, 2012.
Sarah (Harris) Corzine ’04, and husband Jarad, announce the birth of Reed Donald on Feb. 1, 2012.
Kelly (Hettenhausen) Georgia ’99, and husband Jim, welcomed their first child, Grace Elizabeth, on Nov. 1, 2011.
Michelle (Biermann) Hemken ’04, and husband Richard, welcomed their first child, Brooke Marie, on Dec. 22, 2011.
Rebecca (Gutjahr) Ryan ’00, and husband Bill, are pleased to announce the arrival of their first child, Connor Nicholas Ryan, on May 18, 2011.
Megan (Weiler) Connelly ’05, and husband Patrick, announce the arrival of their first child, Weiler Patrick, on Dec. 4, 2012.
Catie (Connelly) Dandridge ’05, and husband Ken Dandridge ’05, welcomed their first child, Mary Catherine, on Oct. 24, 2012.
Cathy (Vielweber) Jordan ’05, and husband Joe, announce the birth of Joseph Thomas, on Aug. 13, 2012. Barbie (Klaus) Weis ’06, and husband C.J., announce the birth of their daughter, Lillian Mae, on May 25, 2012.
Sarah (Haas) Ayran ’08, and husband Jason ’07, announce the birth of Nicholas Earl, on Oct. 23, 2012.
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CLASSnotes Beth McKeown, MAED ’10 received a Those Who Excel Award of Excellence from the Illinois State Board of Education in October 2012. She is a first-grade teacher at Estelle Kampmeyer Elementary School in O’Fallon, Ill. Michael Mendez ’10 is the head men’s and women’s cross country and track coach for the McKendree Bearcats.
Stephanie Cann, MAED ’11 is assistant principal at Roxana High School in Roxana, Ill. She is currently enrolled in McKendree’s EdS. program in curriculum and instruction. Tonya Downard ’11 was promoted to assistant controller with Wilke Window & Door in May 2012.
Carrie Brickey ’11 is the volleyball coach at Lebanon High School in Lebanon, Ill. In her first year coaching, she led the Greyhounds to the Class 1A sectional championship match and a 19-10 record.
Michael Anderson ’12 received a $5,000 Phi Kappa Phi fellowship award. He is attending graduate school at Claremont School of Theology in Claremont, Calif. Melinda Bayer ’12 received a $1,500 scholarship from the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics in October 2012. She is a math teacher at Collinsville High School in Collinsville, Ill.
Catherine “Catie” Neuman ’10 and Adam Alls ’10 were married on July 7, 2012. Catie is a K-12 general music teacher at Clare Woods Academy in Bartlett, Ill. Adam is an analyst at The Hub Group in Downers Grove, Ill. Danielle Belobraydich ’11 is the director of bowling and head women’s bowling coach for the McKendree Bearcats.
Sarah Adams ’12 is pursuing a master’s degree in experimental psychology at Western Illinois University in Macomb, Ill.
Karla Hall ’11 is a Breast Care Advocate at Kentucky One Health Jewish Healthcare in Louisville, Ky. Read her story online at www.mckendree.edu/ky. Earl Higgs ’11 is the manager of the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation Community Division at Fort Knox, Ky. Under his leadership, the division was recognized with one of the first military Gold Medal Awards of Excellence in Park and Recreation Management from the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in October 2012.
Seven alumni returned for the annual volleyball reunion game on Oct. 7, 2012. Pictured from l. to r.: Patty (Rule) Martz ’84; Jean (Scheller) Sampson ’83; Codi (Demspter) Dew ’07; Colleen Crider ’07; Carrie Brickey ’11; Melinda Bayer ’12; and Melissa Bayer ’12.
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Looking for a fun way to get involved with your alma mater and connect with fellow McK graduates? The Office of Alumni Relations is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to assist with the planning of Homecoming & Reunion Weekend on Oct. 4-6, 2013.
Gloria “Susie” (Monroe) Hoybach ’11 is employed with the Department of Defense in a contracting negotiation internship program with the 771 Enterprise Sourcing Group at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. She is enrolled in the master’s program in logistics and supply chain management at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio.
If you are interested in volunteering to serve as a member of one of our committees, fill out the interest form online at www.mckendree.edu/ homecomingcommittee. The 2013 committee requests will be reviewed by the Office of Development, Alumni & Parent Relations.
Christine Juehne ’11 completed her first full Ironman triathlon on Aug. 26, 2012 in Louisville, Ky. Read her story online at www.mckendree.edu/home.
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The alumni men’s basketball scrimmage was held on Dec. 8, 2012. Pictured, front row, from l. to r.: Sean Rakers ’12, Andy Wolff ’11, Jason Schneider ’97, Todd Grigg ’94, Dan Moore ’00 and Darron Randle ’92. Back row: Brad Copelin ’11, Bro. Steve Davis ’93, Bryant Lyles ’08, Aaron Bond ’06, Jerome Gilmore ’05, Mark Collins ’91, and Kyle Heckert ’12.
Melissa Bayer ’12 is a science teacher at O’Fallon Township High School in O’Fallon, Ill.
Vicki Kloeckner, MBA ’12 is the director of human resources at Greenville Regional Hospital in Greenville, Ill.
Brittany Becker ’12 is a language arts teacher at Smithton Elementary in Smithton, Ill.
Kelsie Perkins ’12 is pursuing a master’s degree at the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.
Zachary Esplund ’12 received the Pacesetter 40 award from Northwestern Mutual. Esplund recently joined Northwestern Mutual and is affiliated with the district office in Belleville, Ill.
Genni Strathman ’12 is a teacher’s assistant for Ferguson Florissant Early Childhood Special Education in Ferguson, Mo.
Zachary Rhines ’12 is a choir teacher at Mt. Vernon Township High School in Mt. Vernon, Ill. In his first year teaching, he coached four students to the IMEA District VI Festival.
Stephanie Hoffmeier ’12 is a fourthgrade teacher at Greenville Elementary School in Greenville, Ill.
Alyssa Spano ’12 is pursuing a master’s degree in college student development and counseling at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass.
Melissa Wilkinson ’12 is a foster care case manager at Lutheran Child and Family Services in Decatur, Ill. Thera EnglandWilliams ’12 and Christopher Montgomery ’12 were married on May 19, 2012 at Belle Court Manor in Belleville, Ill.
Kelsey Rittenhouse ’12 was recently hired as a financial aid counselor at McKendree.
Sarah Kinzinger ’12 is a physical education teacher at St. John the Baptist Catholic School in Red Bud, Ill.
Christopher Schomaker ’12 is a fifthgrade teacher at All Saints Academy in Breese, Ill.
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CLASSnotes In Memoriam Deceased alumni and friends through January 15, 2013 Robert A. English ’59 7/15/11 David B.Clark ’63 7/16/11 Nancy K. (Lowe) Sumner ’05 9/18/11 Harold R. Baum ’56 4/9/12 Michelle A. (McCole) Lewis ’98 5/24/12 Joseph P. Evola ’59 7/6/12 Brian L. Ransom ’73 7/20/12 Tracey L. Blevins ’10 8/4/12 Loretta L. (Liefer) Rubemeyer ’75 8/7/12 Rev. Paul E. Anders ’65 8/15/12 Juvenal M. Camacho ’80 8/18/12
Edward “Ed” Willett ’75 passed away on Oct. 27, 2012. He worked at McKendree as Director of Operations for 22 years. Over the years, his administrative responsibilities included transportation services, Public Safety, Dining Services, the University Bookstore, Printing & Mail Services, phone systems, sustainability/green initiatives, construction and renovation, and emergency management planning. 40
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Gene W. Morgan ’78 9/2/12
Steven R. Emery ’93 10/19/12
Guy M. Lahr III ’67 9/4/12
Elsie M. (Crisp) Howard ’52 10/19/12
Linda L. (Simmons) Hester ’81 9/7/12
Rev. Earl R. Black ’55 10/28/12
Richard H. Patterson ’78 9/9/12
Todd J. Reigle ’78 10/31/12
Dorothy M. (Patton) Campbell ’61 9/11/12
Darrell D. Franklin ’63 11/1/12
James D. Richardson ’70 9/22/12
Dorothy “Geraldine” Moss ’70 11/1/12
Penelope “Penny” Neale 9/25/12
Fern M. Hettenhausen 11/16/12
Wilma J. (Ellis) Gaston ’07 9/26/12
Robert W. “Rock” Schaefer ’58 11/23/12
William M. Patterson Jr. ’90 9/26/12
JoAnn B. Montague 12/3/12
Richard J. “Dick” Ogden ’76 10/2/12
Eddie Dillon Jr. ’79 12/16/12
Warren G. Jennings 10/7/12
June E. Meinhardt 1/12/13
Marsha F. (Brasel) DeWilde ’78 10/8/12
When reporting deaths, please provide as much information as possible, especially date, location, graduation year and McKendree connected survivors. Whenever possible, please provide a printed obituary.
John E. White ’70 10/16/12
Ed faithfully attended McKendree events, having overseen the set-up for many of them, and was a staunch supporter of every facet of the University. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a former Lebanon City Council member, serving as an alderman. Ed was also a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Belleville/Swansea Loyal Order of Moose and St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lebanon, Ill.
He is survived by his daughter, Amanda (Mark) McIntyre; sons, Jason Willett and Erik Willett; and two granddaughters, Cloey and Adelyn.
In Memoriam: Fern Hettenhausen, 1920-2012 McKendree University mourned the passing of Fern M. Hettenhausen, its greatest benefactor and a lifelong patron of the arts, who passed away on Nov. 16, 2012, at the age of 92. Motivated by abiding love for her late husband Russel and a deep appreciation of music, her generous and transformative gift of nearly $6 million enabled the construction of the Russel E. and Fern M. Hettenhausen Center for the Performing Arts. Mrs. Hettenhausen, a talented pianist, sought to support a facility that would hone students’ talent for generations and make a significant impact on the performing arts, not only on campus and in Lebanon but also throughout the region. “The Hett,” which opened in 2006, has become Southern Illinois’ premier arts venue, drawing more than 20,000 visitors annually. “Fern delighted in knowing that McKendree’s students had a place to perform, and that faculty, students, staff and those who live in this region had a place to come and enjoy music, theater, dance, speakers and film,” said Dr. James Dennis, president. “The Hett literally has transformed the landscape of McKendree University and the people who come to it to celebrate the arts.” Flags at the Lebanon campus were lowered to half-staff on Nov. 23 to honor Mrs. Hettenhausen and her lasting legacy.
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID St. Louis, MO Permit # 1062
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2nd Annual Bearcat Golf Tournament Tournament to Benefit Benefit McK McKendree endree Univ University ersity Depar Department tment of Athletics Friday, Friday, J June une 21, 20 2013 13 St. Clair Country Club, Belleville, IL tt A.M. Shotgun Start Start tt 1FSTPO 4DSBNCMF 1FSTPO 4DSBNCMF tt $POUJOFOUBM #SFBLGBTU $POUJOFOUBM #SFBLGBTU tt 0O $PVSTF -VODI 4OBDLT #FWFSBHFT 0O $PVSTF -VODI 4OBDLT #FWFSBHFT t #VGGFU %JOOFS "XBSET 3FDFQUJPO 'PMMPXJOH (PMG t #VGGFU %JOOFS "XBSET 3FDFQUJPO 'PMMPXJOH (PMG 5P PVSOBNFOU XBT B DPNQMFUF TFMM PVU VSOBNFOU XBT B DPNQMFUF TFMM PVU Netted Net ted o over ver $70,0 $70,000 0 0 in inaugural event #FOFĂĽUT NFO T XPNFO T #FOFĂĽUT NFO T XPNFO T /$"" %JWJTJPO ** TQPSUT /$"" %JWJTJPO ** TQPSUT For mor For more e tournament tour ournament nament inf information, infor ormation, or mation, please contact Kimber Kimberly Ma Kimberly Mayden, yden, Associate Associat e Vice President President ffor or Development, Dev elopment, Alumni and Parent Par P arent ar ent Relations, at (618) (618) 537-6825 537-6825 or k kamayden@mckendree.edu. kama amayden@mckendr endree.edu. ee.edu.
McKendree.edu/golf McKendree.edu McK endree.edu/golf