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EMBRACING THE CONVERSATION: DIVERSITY AND RACIAL RECONCILIATION PG. 12
PRESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE
IN THIS TOGETHER Prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, I am sure the word “pandemic” was not a part of your everyday conversations. Overnight, the attention of the entire planet was captured by the reality of this virus, which caused unexpected interruption to our already hectic lives. We had other things to do, our schedules were already full and there was no room to add this to our daily activities. Suddenly everything changed. Our university community responded quickly as we moved the entire campus to virtual learning and off-campus operations. Our faculty and staff worked tirelessly and made the necessary changes almost overnight. Complex challenges and difficult decisions followed as the rhythm of the school year was interrupted and redirected as events and traditions were disrupted or cancelled. Our university faculty, staff, students and families responded creatively, courageously and heroically to these challenging issues. The resumption of on-campus classes this fall was preceded by months of preparation and implementation of many new policies and procedures to ensure the health and safety of the campus community. Once again, our people responded to the challenges innovatively, creatively and courageously. Students excitedly returned to campus and they adapted to the unusual demands placed upon them. It was then that the phrase “we are in this together” began to resonate across campus as the true meaning of “together” became more evident with time. How should we as a college and community of faith respond during this pandemic? It turns out that God’s Word has much to say about pandemics and refers to it as “pestilence” which is defined as “any serious infectious disease that spreads quickly and kills large numbers of people.” The prophet Habakkuk was not hesitant to point out the chaos and confusion in his world and referred specifically to pestilence confronting the people. If that isn’t enough, he added famine, mildew, locusts, caterpillars and attack from enemies who sought to destroy them. Sound familiar? In response to his cries of despair, the Lord answered him this way, “Look at the nations and watch— and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe even if I told you.” Perhaps in our own day and in our own season of pestilence our response should reflect the same obedience, courage and persistent faith as Habakkuk when he responded, “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior” Habakkuk 3:18. Even in these challenging days we really are in this together…with Him.
Dr. David J. Spittal President
MANAGING EDITOR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
CONTRIBUTORS
Carol (Knight ’81, MA ’08) Best
Stacey (Asbill ’92) Eisele
Pete Brumbaugh (’90)
Brin Eisele (’22)
Dr. Victoria Haynes
Ashlynn Holsinger (’23)
Chad Jenkins
ART AND DESIGN Stacey (Asbill ’92) Eisele
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
04 Resilience at MNU
College during COVID-19.
09 Campus News
New programs are underway, and enrollment news.
12 Embracing the Conversation
04
09
Diversity and Reconciliation.
14 Athletics
Coaches and teams adjust to new protocols to stay safe while playing.
16 Campaign News
Photos and news from the Cunningham Center groundbreaking.
20 Alumni News
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Photos and news, including births, marriages and condolences.
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On The Cover RESILIENCE AT MNU: COLLEGE DURING COVID-19. Pictured here: Band rehearsal held outside while wearing masks.
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In this together! Students gather at the Harvest Prayer Sculpture with MNU President Dr. David Spittal.
Resilience at MNU: College During COVID-19 By Carol (Knight ’81, MA ’08) Best
Almost before we knew it, COVID turned our lives upside down. It was a jolting shift that most expected would last only a few weeks. But months later, MNU is operating in an entirely new way to make on-campus, in-person education possible. Why was it vital to reopen the campus? Students wanted to be back in person. Not only at MNU but across the country. An article from American Enterprise Institute by Kelly and Columbus (July 7, 2020) stated, “most students still strongly prefer face-to-face instruction.” In fact, a Niche. com survey of 16,000 students this summer confirmed that nearly 80% prefer taking classes in person. But keeping living and learning on campus relatively safe during the pandemic is a daunting task involving every department and office.
ACCOMMODATIONS DURING COVID MNU’s Emergency Response Team, a group of campus leaders, many trained in Multi-Hazard Incident for Higher Education, went into high gear when COVID hit our country. The team meets weekly to oversee protocol and planning for the university’s COVID-19 response.
THE PIVOT Extending the 2020 spring break provided time for faculty to adapt their courses to online delivery. Most students went home to complete the semester, with
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fewer than 25 students remaining on campus due to jobs and other issues. Employees whose responsibilities allowed, transitioned to work from home until June 29 when MNU workers began returning to campus. Faculty reimagined their courses in case the fall 2020 semester needed to be online. Various scenarios were considered throughout the planning process since, like the whole country, MNU leaders could not predict what conditions would be like in August. Thankfully, lower positive COVID numbers in the area allowed the university to start classes in person.
PROTOCOL CampusClear is an application MNU requires for anyone, including visitors, who come on campus for more than 10 minutes. The app logs one’s symptoms of COVID-19, if any, and provides guidance or a “Good To Go” message if cleared to be on campus. Face coverings and social distancing are required everywhere on campus. Frequent disinfecting is done at regular intervals during the day. Electrostatic cleaning devices are in use to disinfect high touchpoint/high traffic areas. Hand sanitizer and cleansing wipes are throughout buildings. Water fountains are for bottle filling only. Livestreams and online meetings are used when possible. Even Chapel and athletic events have moved to livestream to mitigate the gathering of large groups.
ACADEMICS: TECHNOLOGY TO THE RESCUE Nearly every professor is teaching a “hybrid” course in which some students are remote while some are in class. Students in quarantine or who have accommodations online can still interact with their in-person classmates in these courses through video conferencing called Zoom. Dr. LeAnn (Kehr ’83) Yantis, associate professor of business and program director for the Online Bachelor of Business Administration, teaches both professional studies and traditional courses.
and classes may only utilize a room for 20 minutes due to the buildup of aerosols. Then that room must be vacated for 30 minutes to clear the aerosols. To facilitate enough rehearsal space, outdoor gazebo-style tents with open sides and high-pitched ceilings were installed in the Bell Center parking lot.
“It has been interesting,” Yantis says. “I have the online students Zoom in, and I record it so they can review it later. I send them documents and worksheets in advance. I can Zoom from my podium computer or a laptop so I can share my screen in the classroom and online.” Yantis says she and the other professors work to include the online students with those in class. “We have swivel mics worn as a lanyard and when on, an iPad will swivel and follow the wearer as they move around the room. This way online students see what’s happening while we discuss.” While each department has challenges in delivering instruction safely, some have specialized needs.
Students adapt to wearing masks on campus to follow state and county guidelines.
ARTS & HUMANITIES The Department of Arts and Humanities applied the results of the International Coalition Performing Arts Aerosol Study to set protocol for performing arts students. The study focused on the distribution of respiratory aerosol generated while playing wind instruments, singing, acting, speaking, dancing and in simulated aerobic activity. It studied respiratory aerosol, including volume, direction, density and mitigation strategies related to performing arts. In addition to social distancing, which causes many classes to be split into smaller groups, many other mitigating procedures are in place. Three styles of custom masks accommodate singers, wind instrument players and actors. Performing arts lessons, rehearsals
Departmental events have also changed to protect students and patrons. Plays and concerts are held outside with limited audience size.
NURSING Imagine having a nurse who graduated without ever getting real-world clinical experience. MNU faculty could not let that happen and though clinical sites started closing to students last spring, faculty created virtual simulations and critical thinking activities to prepare their students. Simulations include those already on the market and MNU’s own created by faculty in the Simulation (Sim) Lab. Students watched the simulations online and debriefed
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Resilience at MNU (Continued) with one another and faculty virtually. Nationally, medical professionals say new nurses need more critical thinking, so faculty took the opportunity to devise a wide variety of critical-thinking activities to replace clinical hours. As restrictions lifted in the summer, faculty were able to take small groups of students into the Sim Lab, rotating the class through the process. “Intensive sessions were held in the Sim Lab prepping our accelerated BSN students with nursing skills they had not been able to do in person,” says Crysti Danahy, DNP, RN, chair, pre-licensure nursing, director of operations and associate professor of nursing. “They were able to practice and complete check-offs before their clinical placement. Some had practiced at home with family, but there’s only so much that you can do. We would not send a student to a practice partner who had never touched some of these objects.” Danahy says that MNU’s 28 practice partners allow students to do clinical experiences to some degree now.
NATURAL, HEALTH & MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES
they are in wet lab,” says Dr. Abby Hodges, chair, natural, health & mathematical sciences, professor of chemistry. Another aspect of COVID is the undeniable increase in workload, but Hodges says the biggest challenge is less interaction with students and colleagues outside the classroom. However, there are positives. “Class attendance is up,” Hodges says. “The students want to be in class.” Anecdotal evidence from faculty appears to support her statement. Professors consistently report that students say they are thankful to be in class and on campus.
TEACHER EDUCATION Amid COVID changes, the Teacher Education Department still needed to place preservice teachers (teacher education students) in clinical experiences. During October, these students typically spend 25 hours a week in local elementary, middle and high schools, gaining vital experience. This summer, Dr. Ruth (Gleason ’81) Waggoner, professor of education and clinical director, contacted local school districts to see if they would take placements this fall.
Large classes are split and held in separate classrooms to accommodate social distancing. Professors teach in one room while livestreaming it into one or two other rooms. In the case of labs, three lab sessions become six sessions for professors to teach. Additional teaching assistants (upperclassmen) were added to assist with questions and grading. Students’ lab partners are kept the same all semester to minimize potential exposure. When possible, labs are completed without partnering. Lab sessions are now wet lab or dry lab. Wet lab performs experiments with equipment and supplies, while dry lab work is done with computers and worksheets.
“They understand the importance of preservice teachers having these experiences,” Waggoner says. “Some districts were not allowing anyone other than teachers and students in their buildings, but they all agreed to take our practicum students. All of our students will have different experiences depending on the district where they are placed, from in-person to hybrid to remote.”
“There is a lot of learning that can occur outside the lab that is good preparation or practice for students when
“We told them to follow the guidelines to a tee. We said if the district says social distance by six feet, we want you
MNU faculty provided extra training before practicum placement. Waggoner made sure each preservice teacher had instruction on the protocol in their school district.
Accommodations during COVID-19 Employees return to campus June 29 Face coverings Enhanced sanitation of common areas Electrostatic cleaning devices disinfect regularly Employees work from home MNU’s Emergency Response Team activated Few students and employees stay on campus CampusClear app reports symptoms School opens with new protocols Outdoor events expanded Social Distancing Faculty adapt classes to online The PIVOT Spring Break extended Livestreaming Chapel and athletic events Semester wraps up and Commencement Ceremony postponed Planning for in-person or online classes for Fall 2020
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Students wear masks fitted for performances with instruments, choir and theater.
to do seven feet,” Waggoner says. “If they say to wash your hands five times a day, do it six times a day. You represent MidAmerica, and we don’t want any extra burden on the school district because of your placement.” School districts are happy to have extra help from MNU students. With additional protocol in place, teachers have less time to do group work with their learners. “Practicum students can help fill the gap, and that is a blessing,” Waggoner added. “I have been so proud of our students. They have rolled with it, producing high-quality
lessons wherever they are. I have not received one complaint about going into this situation, remote or not.”
ATHLETICS The athletic department may have had more scrutiny from the public than any other area at MNU as they prepared for athletes’ return. The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) provided vital guidance and regulation, allowing for competition. About 400 in-season athletes were COVID-tested shortly after arrival. Daily screening with temperature checks, (Continued on page 8) ACCENT MAGAZINE - FALL 2020
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Electrostatic cleaning devices are in use to disinfect high touchpoint/high traffic areas.
Resilience at MNU (Continued) symptom checks and screening on game day within six hours before competition is required. Coaches are vital to athletes’ compliance as they uphold protocol and provide motivation to students. Training rooms and locker rooms are only accessible at pre-appointed times. Social distancing is required during workouts, so the weight room moved to Land Gym to accommodate the space needed. Everyone wondered how practice and competition would be accomplished in masks when physical exertion requires greater oxygen intake. Since teams are monitored closely and spend time together daily, masks are not required in practice and competition. However, masks are used on the sidelines. Head Soccer Coach, Kevin Wardlaw, says he reminds athletes that beyond the sacrifices they are making to compete, they need to be thankful. “I tell our guys that they’re getting the opportunity to play,” Wardlaw says. “There are so many places where guys aren’t able to play and it’s affecting their college experience and even their future, depending on their aspirations and dreams. We’re extremely lucky to be playing.”
Todd Garrett (’94), athletic director, says the department’s Core Covenants are seeing them through the pandemic. “We are reminding our athletes and coaches that looking out for the best interest of one another as well as ourselves will make the difference in getting through these challenges,” Garrett says.
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RESIDENTIAL LIFE One of the first concerns in preparing for on-campus learning to resume was considering the residence halls. MNU’s residential living includes traditional hall-style dorms with two large shared bathrooms per floor, suite-style living and townhouses. Each has its own set of challenges to keep clean, facilitate shared living spaces safely and allow for socializing among residents. Student Development and Residential Life spent the summer making plans and developing protocol. Facilities Services had each dorm certified by an industrial cleaning specialist and put additional cleaning crews in place throughout campus. Areas were prepared for quarantine or isolation of students as needed. And the most daunting task—helping students 1) understand the required protocol; 2) maintain social distancing in common residential areas; and 3) persist with these requirements.
WHAT HAPPENS IN QUARANTINE OR ISOLATION? Though most students choose to go home, students who stay on campus to quarantine or isolate are housed in separate areas. Extra cleaning occurs in those spaces, meals are brought to them by residential staff. Hybrid learning, video conferencing and other methods ensure they can continue coursework. But make no mistake, it is a considerable challenge for young, vital students to live this way. Seeing friends meet this challenge has helped other students understand the importance of taking preventative measures seriously.
GREAT CAMPUS NEWS
CAMPUS NEWS
Significant Enrollment Increase This Fall MNU Fall 2020 Census Day numbers gave Pioneers reason to be thankful! The total number of students enrolled for the fall semester was 2,239, an increase of 17% from fall 2019. New freshmen were part of the equation, up 10% and the largest freshman class since 2017. Continuing education student enrollment was also up significantly. Achieving an increase in enrollment is counter to the national trend this year.
the cooperation, diligence and heroic actions of faculty, staff and students to get this done together,” says President David Spittal. “Pioneer Spirit takes many forms and we can accomplish much together, but at its best it is manifested by patience, unselfish acts, mutual support and respect for one another as good neighbors.”
According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, first-time students declined by 16% nationwide and by 22.7% at community colleges. The study says public institutions have fared better than private. But that’s not the case at MNU. Drew Whipple is the associate vice president for traditional enrollment. His admissions team utilized virtual and limited in-person campus visits for freshmen and transfers during the recruiting season. “I’m grateful that the MNU community took on enrollment for the fall as a university-wide effort,” Whipple says. “The maintenance and growth of enrollment is a reflection of the quality of an MNU education and how invested our faculty, coaches, and staff are in connecting with students and welcoming them to MNU.” Though many universities decided to go virtual this fall, MNU met the challenge of reopening during the pandemic with strict protocols to protect students and employees. Its Emergency Response Team continues to meet weekly to adjust protocol, schedules and provisions for the campus.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to continue on-campus classes and events and we cannot take this for granted. I appreciate
Heritage Choir Records at Local Temple Heritage Choir, under the direction of Dr. Christopher Smith, visited Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Overland Park, Kansas to experience the exquisite acoustics of the temple. The church sanctuary’s soaring ceiling and cupola provided the perfect venue for the choir to record several songs. Fr. Timothy Sawchuk, rector at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, gave the choir a fun lecture about the church and its history. The event was held on a WIRED Wednesday, and is a great example of ways that MNU uses its new schedule to enrich the student experience. WIRED or Wednesday Integrative Relational Experiential Days are for academic departments to provide experiences including internships, practica, job shadowing, research and field trips.
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CAMPUS NEWS
MNU Thunder Drumline - Performing during halftime of a recent Pioneer home game.
Thunder Sounds at Games No longer just on the horizon, MNU Thunder Drumline now rumbles at athletic competitions for volleyball and football in this season—the drumline’s first at MNU. Coach Ben Gervais and seven drummers perform at home games. The drumline program is a partnership between performing arts and the athletic department, and interest has grown. Gervais says drumline students are from different majors, and though all are musicians, not all were previously percussionists. Some play trumpet, bassoon or French horn, in addition to being in the drumline. New drums and custom drumheads (the part that is struck with sticks or hands) make the drumline sparkle, adding to the atmosphere at games. Gervais says MNU invested in equipment that the drumline program can grow into. He hopes to draw enrollment as more students participate in the extracurricular activity that is popular at many other institutions. His focus will continue to be educational. Gervais has an extensive background as a band teacher, with a specialty in drumline. The inspiration for his approach with MNU Thunder comes from collegiate drumline programs at Michigan State and Iowa State.
Blogs, Social Media and More: Digital Communications Major Gets Off the Ground Beginning the class session with a question, Prof. Aaron Bohn engages his digital communications seminar students by asking what food they would bring if stranded on a desert island. The answers range from pizza to mangoes and popcorn to Fuzzy's Tacos. The eleven students work on individual projects, but they come together each week to debrief and help each other take next steps on their projects.
Michigan State has an infectious positive culture with exceptional alumni support. And ISU’s drumline program is educationdriven. To that end, Gervais has students writing music for their performances and writes some himself.
Jessica is creating a YouTube channel. Lydia is producing a coffee blog like Coffee Geek, and Jackson is developing social media plans for a football team. This week, the assignment is a one-sentence statement identifying their purpose and audience of their digital communications. As the semester progresses, student projects will culminate in a final production.
“I want our students to leave with skills that could lead to becoming a drumline coach if they like, whether for a career or a sideline,” Gervais says.
The students use their real-world experience as digital natives of the Internet, while gaining instruction and expertise.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Elivia is producing an Instagram cooking segment patterning her production after a Mexican grandmother she watches on YouTube.
Bohn is an expert in digital communications and his passion is to develop faith-based producers. He earned two master’s degrees at Asbury University—one in screenwriting and another in digital storytelling—and was a quarterfinalist at the Nashville Film Festival in the screenwriting category for Best Comedy Pilot. Though the students' projects vary greatly, the skills they learn will transfer to virtually any field. Job seekers with digital communication skills are in high demand and every industry needs them. As Bohn works to build the curriculum and the program, students gain marketable skills that benefit them now and after graduation.
The City of Olathe grieved with the passing of Mike Copeland (’84), the city’s longest serving, six-term mayor. Mike’s decision to come from California to Kansas to attend MidAmerica and play football not only impacted the trajectory of his life, but ultimately, the lives of generations of Olatheans. In college Mike’s natural leadership skills led him to serve as president of Associated Student Government. His call to public service which began as a city councilmember in 1993, was inspired by the life and ministry of Dr. Paul Cunningham, then pastor at College Church of the Nazarene, where Mike was a member for 40 years.
Digital Communications classmates discuss portfolio projects.
“Mike Copeland was a mayor for everyone and a friend of all,” Spittal said. “His energetic leadership, vitality and deep faith inspired a community to be all it could and his praise and encouragement lifted the spirits of all who knew him. As an alum, he actively promoted and supported the university and its mission.” During his tenure, Olathe was nationally recognized as one of America’s best places to live. It also earned Mike numerous awards and accolades, among them the Olathe Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, the MidAmerica Nazarene University Alumnus of the Year and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Award from the Olathe Branch of the NAACP. Mike served on more than 15 local and regional boards. His Olathe Mayor’s Children’s Fund consistently raised more than any other Metro area mayor’s fund for children (to date more than $1.5 million). More than any other endeavor, Mike’s most cherished role was husband and father. He is survived by his wife Maria and children Olivia, Abigail and Joshua.
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EMBRACING THE CONVERSATION: DIVERSITY AND RACIAL RECONCILIATION As part of an overall effort this year to acknowledge the need for understanding and building community, Difficult Conversations About Race, a virtual workshop, was held October 7. Workshop panelists were Rev. Bobby Love, pastor of Olathe’s Second Baptist Church and Dr. Anthony Moore (’85), assistant superintendent for Instructional Leadership, Raytown Quality Schools. Serving as moderator was the university’s coordinator of diversity & cultural competency, Dr. Victoria Haynes, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, professor of nursing. Haynes oversees MNU’s efforts to educate, inspire and promote positive action relating to race relations. The workshop was held to break the ice with conversations Haynes says are everyone’s moral duty to have, especially when we are from different ethnic or cultural backgrounds.
“This is what Christ has intended us to do,” Haynes says. “To ask ‘how are you doing, really?’ If you’re hurting, I want to help.” The event was one of seven workshops that are scheduled this academic year. Several of the topics focus on racial reconciliation and, according to Haynes, provide opportunities to listen, learn, and grow as brothers and sisters in Christ. Extending beyond these workshops, Haynes has developed a group of facilitators called Bridge Builders. These seven faculty and staff members lead small groups so that discussion can continue after the workshops. Haynes says there are “tons of opportunities to engage this year.” Some of the other enrichment events include: » A Race & Faith Growing Chapel each semester followed by a six-week small group study. These intimate gatherings provide opportunities to continue conversations on racial reconciliation and building community. » Leadership Luncheons for emerging student leaders to learn from and engage with diverse speakers from surrounding communities. » The monthly Multicultural Trivia event is held at lunchtime in the Campus Center. While offering a lighthearted way to learn more about diverse cultural groups, students can also earn prizes. Everyone wins when other cultures become more familiar to all.
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The semester began with the CommUnity Walk for prayer and a call to action. Haynes says the goal was to encourage us as believers to be an active part of the change. “It takes each and every one of us to make it better,” she says. “We have to do the work together.”
» An African American Read In, honoring Black History month, in collaboration with Mabee Library and Olathe Public Library. For more info https://ncte. org/get-involved/african-american-read-in/ » MLK Week Events celebrate leadership from the Black community to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In 2021 MNU will hold its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration honoring Dr. Tiffany Anderson, superintendent of Topeka Public Schools and presenting the university’s MLK Leader Scholars. Haynes has a large group of Pioneers helping her. The Diversity Advisory Council (DAC), comprised of 19 faculty and staff, provides leadership and empowers students, staff and faculty to embrace cultural differences. While the Student Diversity Council (SDC) gives voice to student perspectives, plans events and spearheads service in the community.
“After four years doing this work, I believe there is a lot of knowledge at MNU about race and culture. This year we are focusing on next steps,” Haynes adds.
CommUnity@MNU Video View the virtual homecoming discussion on CommUnity@MNU here: https://vimeo.com/468405496
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MNU ATHLETICS
PIONEER ATHLETES PERSEVERE Pioneer athletes have done a stellar job of staying in the game this season while practicing and competing under COVID-19 protocol from the state, the county, the NAIA and MNU. Support from the athletic department administration and the motivation and concern of coaches, helped student athletes persevere. Though the season is still in play as this wrap up is being written, the consensus at MNU is gratitude for being able to compete and pride in our students’ cooperation in this—the most unusual season.
CROSS COUNTRY The men’s and women’s cross country teams have only competed in three meets in preparation for the Heart Championships. Several personal bests have been established despite limited competition. In the Heart of America Conference Cross Country Championships, Nov. 7, the women placed third and the men placed sixth. Wasu Janis will compete in the NAIA Cross Country National Championship in April 2021.
VOLLEYBALL The 12-7 Pioneer volleyball team is enjoying a solid season as they qualified for the conference tournament. Jacque Calvert leads the conference in hitting percentage and Jennifer Roth is second in kills per set.
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FOOTBALL In Head Coach Paul Hansen’s first season at MNU, the Pioneers went 2-6. Quarterback Blake Atkins leads the conference with almost 300 yards passing per game. And receiver Caleb Tanis leads the conference with almost six catches per game.
MEN’S SOCCER The MNU men’s soccer team (9-3 in conference play) is near the top of the tough Heart of America conference and Mathieu Ecourtemer is second in the league in goals and goals per match.
WOMEN’S SOCCER The Pioneer women’s soccer team is 7-2-2 in conference play despite an inconsistent schedule due to various postponements and quarantines. Savannah Bussmann is in the top-5 in the conference in goals per game.
THE MOST UNUSUAL
MNU ATHLETICS
SEASON
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CAMPAIGN NEWS
The Cunningham family was first to break ground with Dr. and Mrs. David Spittal.
Breaking Ground For Future Generations Groundbreaking on the $20 million Cunningham Center was held Friday, August 28, on the Campus Mall at MNU. The new building, which is part of the Bright Futures Campaign for MNU, will house multiple dining options, student services, the admissions office and more. Plenty of space for community gatherings, meetings and socializing is planned. The building will replace the Campus Center, one of the university's five original buildings.
The building is named for Dr. Paul G.and Dr. Connie Cunningham, whose ministry and vision have been part of MNU since before its inception. The ceremony began with remarks from Dr. Jon North, vice president for university advancement, an invocation and remarks from Board of Trustees Chair Rev. Jim Bond and remarks from Craig Garrett, a senior student and president of Associated Student Government. "This building will be a huge asset to the students," Garrett said, adding that it will be a place to form friendships and make great memories. He thanked university leaders and generous donors who helped make the vision of the building a reality for generations of students to come. Campaign co-chairs Tim Buchanan and Dr. Dan Rexroth also spoke. Buchanan expressed thanks to the 21 Campaign Executive Committee members. The J. E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation’s $1 million challenge gave the university just 12 months to raise the remaining $11 million for the building. Calling that achievement miraculous, Buchanan explained how individuals and foundations joined to support the vision for this building.
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BRIGHT FUTURES CAMPAIGN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE HONORARY CO-CHAIRS: Dr. Paul G. Cunningham*† and Dr. Connie R. Cunningham*
* Alumnus † Deceased
CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIRS: Mr. Timothy J. Buchanan and Mrs. Gail Buchanan* Dr. Daniel D. Rexroth and Mrs. JoAnne Rexroth Mr. Roger C. Alexander* Dr. Matthew J. Beem Mr. Pete J. Brumbaugh* Mr. Ervin L. Cash* Buchanan expressed thanks to the 21 Campaign Executive Committee members. The J. E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation’s $1 million challenge gave the university just 12 months to raise the remaining $11 million for the building. Calling that achievement miraculous ...
Dr. Merrill R. Conant* Mr. Chad B. Cook* Mr. Michael E. Copeland*† Mr. Robert W. Crew* Mr. Frank H. Devocelle Dr. Robert K. Drummond Timothy J. Buchanan - Co-Chair
Mr. G. Todd Garrett*
“This is not about dollars and cents or bricks and mortar,” Buchanan said. “The headline here is about lives that will be changed…lifetime relationships that will be made…right here on this soil beneath us which we will break today.”
Dr. H. Chris Halvorson
Rexroth thanked the building committee, architects and builder for previous and continuing work on the building.
Dr. Larry D. McIntire
Mrs. Janet Halvorson* Mr. Timothy R. Keeton* Mr. Michael D. Major* Mr. Timothy M. McKee Daniel D. Rexroth - Co-Chair
“We want to be the best stewards we can be of the money that many of you have given,” he said. “We want every dollar to be put to work. We are standing on the shoulders of the long legacy of people who have made MidAmerica great. I hope we are able to honor that, give back in some way and in some way be able to leave our own legacy for those that follow us.”
Dr. Jon D. North* Dr. David J. Spittal Mr. John A. Staton Mr. Allen G. and Mrs. Madeline Tollefson
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Breaking Ground (Continued) A recording played of the late Dr. Paul Cunningham's address at a former General Assembly, as an introduction for Dr. David Spittal. As Cunningham recalled the events that led to the founding of MidAmerica, he said MNU is the result of the sacrifices made. He called it, “reaping kingdom rewards.” “MidAmerica Nazarene University’s past, present and future have always been dependent on the generosity of God, and people like you, who have given sacrificially for the students of our region,” Cunningham said in the recording. President David Spittal then expressed thanks for sacrificial fundraising support, to a crowd of about 200. Social distancing was employed at the event.
»
Visit brightfutures.mnu.edu for more
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Dr. Spittal introduced Dr. Connie Cunningham, who spoke with enthusiasm about seeing the dream of this campus, and the student center, become a reality. Eleven members of the Cunningham family have earned degrees at MNU, she added. The entire immediate family was in attendance. Dr. Cunningham spoke about standing on approximately the same spot more than 50 years ago with her husband. They were scouting the location for the yet unnamed college and the spot on this hilltop was then a cornfield. Paul had a scripture he felt the Lord had given him, Matthew 5:14, she said.
“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden." NLT version.
The ceremonial breaking of ground then began. Dr. Carla Sunberg, general superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene and a 1983 graduate of MNU, gave the prayer of celebration. The construction company is A.L. Huber and the architectural firm is PGAV. The building is slated to open in 2022.
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ALUMNI UPDATES
ALUMNI NEWS Michael Major ('76) is now the regional chief financial officer and senior vice president for Heartland Financial USA. Brad Dyrness ('83) is superintendent of the Michigan District of the Church of the Nazarene. Brad and his wife, Deborah (Angier '83), most recently served the congregation at Lansing South (MI) Church of the Nazarene. Todd Laytham ('89) is now vice president for finance and chief financial officer at Assured Trust in Kansas City. Scott Schaffer ('91) was recently promoted to vice president of technology with Suprajit Technology Center and Wescom Controls. Damon Stelting (’93) is now vice president, commercial banking at First Business Bank, Kansas City. Leslie Payne (MBA ’98) has been named vice president for advancement and marketing at Culver-Stockton College in Canton, Missouri. She had been director for corporate and foundation relations for the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio since 2016. Bill Fitzpatrick (MHR '01) is now the owner of CMIT Solutions of Overland Park South.
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Daniel Hofferbert ('04) has joined Trility Consulting as a senior software engineer.
of Elite Physicals in Kansas City, Kansas. Dade Baker ('17) is the analytics assistant at ShotTracker. Jonathan Melton ('18) joined the staff of Kansas City First Church of the Nazarene as youth pastor. Zach Helm ('20) is now an audit associate with Grant Thornton. LLC.
Amber (Dalziel ’07) Dawkins competed in NBC TV’s American Ninja Warrior in July. She did not make it through the course, but she’s already a winner. Amber has cystic fibrosis and being invited into that competition is a significant accomplishment.
Kyren Martin ('20) is now a safety and support specialist with KidsTLC in Olathe. Ellie Nyhus ('20) is the account coordinator at DH Pace in Olathe.
Alison Kennedy (’10) is now assistant principal at Wilson Middle School, Council Bluffs, Iowa. GW Weld ('11) is president of the Eudora (KS) Chamber of Commerce. He owns Cornerstone Property Management and has renovated over 50 properties in the Eudora Area. His passion is to revitalize his hometown. Kathy (Matney '13) Weld, owns Zeb’s Coffeehouse and is director of visioneering at Velocity Church in Lawrence, Kansas. Jeff Bell (PADM ’13) recently started a public relations firm. Bell PR specializes in branding, media relations, crisis communications, and more. Lindsay (Duggins '14) Weathers was recognized in the April 2020 issue of Ingram's Magazine in its "40 Under Forty List" of leaders to watch. She is co-founder
Lauren Page ('20) is attending Law School at the University of Kansas. Kalea Robert ('20) is a care facilitator with KidsTLC in Olathe.
»
HAVE NEWS?
PLEASE SHARE YOUR NEWS about births, marriages, new jobs and accomplishments with alumni@mnu.edu or connect on social media.
ALUMNI UPDATES
BIRTHS 8) Austin and Kassidy (Ritchel '14) Chuning, a son: Roy Lee, April 20, 2020. 9) Yort (’11) and Caitlin (Gardner ’12) Clark, a son: Yorton Levi, May 1, 2020.
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10) Dane ('10) and Shayna (Smith '09) Conant, a son: Rigstin Ace, April 15, 2020.
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1) Tyler (’12) and Megan (Palmer ’14) Allen, a son: Palmer Jonathan, September 25, 2020.
11) Brady (’10) and Breanna Jo Croucher, a son: Rex Joseph, July 25, 2020.
22) Jason and Morgan (Singleton '16) Grossardt, a daughter: Addison Elaine, April 19, 2020.
2) Mark (’10) and Alexandra (Cox ’11) Ball, a son: Allister Gene, September 18, 2020.
12) Jonathon ('08) and Mallory Darcy, a son: Kingston Jair, April 18, 2020.
23) Franco (’15) and Ariana GutierrezRivas, a daughter: Camila del Rosario, September 26, 2020.
3) Marcus and Danielle (Morgan ’15) Blandford, a daughter: Melanie Anne, August 8, 2020. 4) Cole (’10) and Rachelle (Warren ’10) Branstetter, a daughter: Elsie Dawn, July 16, 2020. 5) Matthew (’08) and Lauren (Gilmore ’09) Buchanan, a daughter: Lena Marie, August 8, 2020. 6) John (’13) and Tara Burgat, a son: Jones Arthur, July 16, 2020. 7) John (’99) and Heather (Naftzger ’06) Bustle, a daughter: Harper Mae, July 14, 2020.
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13) Douglas (FS ’15) and Morgan (Sands ’15) Eichman, a daughter: Addison May, May 13, 2020. 14) Glen and Emily (Gauer ’14) Engle, a daughter: Riley Elizabeth, October 1, 2020.
24) Sean (’15) and Emily (DeLong ’14) Hephner, a son: Davide Andrionico, June 18, 2020. 25) Garrett (’13) and Kelsey Hobbs, a son: Maverick Jon, May 23, 2020.
15) Josh and Sarah (Hunt ’07) Fash, a son: Jacob James, January 16, 2020. 16) Keith and Beth (Keeley ’11) Ferguson, a daughter: Harper Olivia, January 16, 2020. 17) Corey and Micah (Yantis ’06) Fischer, a son: Jamison, August 23, 2020. 18) Kyle (’13) and Janessa (Halvorson ’12) Ford, a daughter: Jillian Eliana, May 18, 2020.
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19) Jacob (’13) and Shara French, a daughter: Remy Jane, May 20, 2020.
26) Brandon (’17) and Kara (Stallings ’17) Jeffries, a son: Truitt Wade, June 3, 2020.
20) Terrin (’15) and Reagan Garber, a daughter: Quinn Eloise, June 26, 2020.
27) Matt and Carolyn (Wheeler ’10) Jensen, a son: Wesley Emet, May 15, 2020.
21) Nathan (’13) and Kelsey Garcia, a son: Edgar Allen, May 12, 2020.
28) Luke (’15) and Jamie Johnston, a daughter: Emmi Rose, May 12, 2020.
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ALUMNI UPDATES
BIRTHS (CONT.) 39) Brandon and Megan (Brown ’14) Ott, a daughter: Brecken Kay, April 21, 2020. 40) Blake ('17) and Maddie Owings, a son: Forest Wayne, April 10, 2020. 41) David (’09) and Essy Peterka, a son: Taji Daniel, September 12, 2020.
(29) 29) Calvin (’08) and Jamie Kiburz, a daughter: Elsie Maye, March 2, 2020. 30) Seth (’12) and Lauren (Tredoux ’14) Kilber, a son: Forest Ira, August 7, 2020.
42) Grant and Erica (Drege '11) Peterson, a daughter: Evelyn Joy, April 4, 2020. 43) Justin (’11) and Kyndra (Zeigler ’14) Pickens, a son: Whit Rosen, July 9, 2020.
31) Jeff ('08) and Megan Kimmel, a son: Alec Bowen, April 10, 2020.
44) Josh (’15) and Kassy (Cole ’10) Poteet, a daughter: Parker Jean, June 28, 2020.
32) Brett (’12) and Marlena (Prewitt ’11) Knox, a daughter: Jade Charity, July 31, 2020.
45) Cristian (’18) and Emily (Phillips ’18) Reyes, a son: Benito James, July 10, 2020.
33) Hunter and Hannah (Atwell ’12) Lareau, a son: Elend James, September 15, 2020.
46) Bryce (’16) and Anna (Rich ’14) Reynolds, twin daughters: Ryleigh Grace and Hallie Faith, July 1, 2020.
34) Eddy and Melissa (Miller ’11) Lozano, a daughter: Amelie Renise, August 17, 2020.
47) Jason and Heather (Lukens ’07) Roberts, a son: Lukas Michael, May 23, 2020.
35) Addison (MBA ’19) and Maggie Lucchi, a daughter: Elinor, September 1, 2020.
48) Leon (’14) and Lyndsay (Crabtree ’15) Robinette, a daughter: Liliana Noelle, July 14, 2020.
36) Caio and Samantha (Moore ’15) Maciel, a son: Enzo Lee, October 27, 2019.
49) Daniel (’12) and Ashley (Taylor ’10) Ruegsegger, a son: Crew Daniel, April 27, 2020.
37) Derek (’13) and Becky (Wieczorek ’13) McGown, a son: Barrett Randall, August 26, 2020. 38) Daniel (’08) and Candace (Barkman ’08) Moss, a son: Brooks Elias Alan, May 13, 2020.
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(49) 50) Andrew and Lacey (Unruh ’14) Rush, a daughter: Madison Renae, July 29, 2020. 51) Galen ('14) and Justean (Covert '14) Ryman, a daughter: Shiloh Elaine, April 6, 2020. 52) Jesse (’09) and Justina Smith, a daughter: Lucy Joelee, August 24, 2020. 53) Kyle and Jana (Laughlin '10) Steinke, a son: Oliver Brody, April 9, 2020. 54) Kendel and Felicia (Goodwin FS ’10) Stites, a son: Silas Edward, May 28, 2020. 55) Jeff (’13) and Jourdan (McGuire ’12) Suos, a daughter: Ivy Jeanne, July 28, 2020. 56) Derek and Melanie (Asplund ’07) Taylor, a daughter: Brene Asplund, July 18, 2020. 57) Darin (’09) and Shaina (Wright FS ’12) Ware, a daughter: Emberly Mae, September 1, 2020. 58) Billy (’13) and Katie (Jackson FS ’13) Weissend, a daughter: Rosemary Ellington, July 25, 2020.
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59) Matt (’06) and Melissa (Meyer ’06) Wells, a son: Caleb Robert, August 4, 2020.
ALUMNI UPDATES
IN MEMORY
MARRIAGES Clair (Plummer ’16) and Zac Crase, August 16, 2020.
Eric and Liza (Zumbrunnen ’11) Rowlands, June 27, 2020.
Michael and Dacia (Harris ’20) Magee, August 30, 2020
Sam and Carly (Doane ’16) White, August 7, 2020.
Joe and Deborah (Dixon ’14) Mayer, August 29, 2020.
Former First Lady Nancy Robinson, wife of the late Dr. Ed Robinson, MNU's fourth president, passed away September 22, 2020 at age 70. Mrs. Robinson served as first lady from July 2005 to May 2010. She worked for the beautification of the MNU campus, assisting with events and with Dr. Robinson's ministry as an enthusiastic Pioneer. With degrees from Northwest Nazarene College in Nampa, Idaho, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City, (Master of Arts in curriculum and instruction), Nancy was a dedicated educator, teaching in Nampa, Idaho, and schools in the Shawnee Mission School District (KS). She retired in 2005 after 32 years. She was also an engaging writer and adept at communicating with people from all walks of life and in virtually any setting. "Nancy was a woman of great faith and strong courage,” said President David Spittal. “Her quiet nature and gentle spirit were evident as she served the university with grace, along with her late husband." Nancy is survived by her two adult daughters, Kimberly Lovitt, (John), and grandsons Seth and Colin and daughter, Kelly Robinson.
CONDOLENCES Frank W. Orton (’72), July 8, 2020. Dr. Glenn Kell (’73), August 6, 2020. Lisa Daggett (FS ’75), November 8, 2020. Darrel Krehbiel (’75), October 29, 2020. Ronald Frizzell (’77), May 5, 2020. Darrell Knee (FS ’77), September 22, 2020. Sharon (Dicken ’79) Queen, September 22, 2020. Mike Copeland (’84), August 19, 2020. (See page 11) Kendall Hudson (’84), April 24, 2020. Kelly Lauffenburger (’95), June 19, 2020. Phil Shriner (’95), June 12, 2020. Laura (Scherman ’99) Park, August 7, 2020. Steve Vandemark (’99), September 25, 2020. Derek Leppert (FS ’04), September 25, 2020. Gordon D. Degraffenreid, former football coach, August 8, 2020. Dr. Paul E. Hendrickson, professor emeritus of physics, September 16, 2020. Ron Hill, former athletic director and faculty, September 24, 2020. Nancy Robinson, former first lady, September 23, 2020. (Left)
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April 16 , 2021 Friday, April 12, 2019 MNU Campus MNU Cook Center 7:00 p.m.
Join us forsignature an inspiring evening exquisite food, live President’s Honors – MNU’s fundraising andofdonor recognition event – will returnand in 2021! The upcomingand event will look much differentThis silent auctions, special entertainment. than in past years.signature Expect more video and virtual$3.9 content, withfor some event has raised million student in-person opportunities. Same exciting live and silent auctions. Same scholarships and other priorities at MNU. high level of inspiration. Same deep level of gratitude.
Honoring Tim and Gail Buchanan with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Join us in celebrating God’s faithfulness and donor generosity as we eclipse a night to celebrate God’s faithfulness and donor the $5-million milestone in scholarship support!
Plan now to be part of the 2019 President’s Honors,
generosity. Be sure to reserve your tickets early!
MORE AND PURCHASE TICKETS AT www.PresidentsHonors.org LEARN MORE 24 LEARN ACCENT MAGAZINE - FALL 2020 AND PURCHASE TICKETS AT www.PresidentsHonors.org
