ACCENT MidAmerica Nazarene University
Fall 2014
On a Kansas Hill was Planted… Look back, celebrate what God is doing today, and join in the next chapter of The MNU Experience. Enjoy MNU ‘Then and Now.’
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Now Run With It! One of my favorite Olympic events to watch is the relay race where runners sprint their segment of the race and then pass the baton to the next runner, who receives it without looking back. That runner, baton in hand, has but one goal: now run with it. The prophet Habakkuk needed a plan and repeatedly asked God for direction, but God was silent and provided him no clear guidance. Not willing to proceed without a plan, the prophet found a high place and watched, waited and listened for an answer from God. In the right time, the Lord answered him and told him to write down the plan and make it plain so it could be proclaimed to others. The Lord answered his impatience with direction and an amazing new vision for the future. Habakkuk now held the plan in his hand; the handoff was complete and God said, “Now run with it.”
"This vision for the future of the university must be passed from one generation to the next" MNU’s new strategic plan, Building Foundations: Growing Forward, is about an exciting vision for the future. It is a plan shaped by creative ideas, innovation and new opportunities, designed to respond to the vitality and dreams of each new generation of MNU students. Our foundation and heritage have been secured through prayer, faith and the pioneering spirit of our founders. In our day, Transforming, Delivering, Strengthening and Building are the themes that challenge us to build upon our strong foundation and move forward with clarity of mission and purpose. Our mission is transformational and will be accomplished by those committed to Jesus Christ, high standards of excellence and a passion to lead through service. In a relay race, without a handoff, there is no race and dropping the baton is not an option. This vision for the future of the university must be passed from one generation to the next; and like the runners in a relay race, MNU will pass God’s truth from one generation to the next. As we listen to His voice, and seek His direction, He provides the plan, and His instructions are clear…now run with it.
Dr. David J. Spittal President
Volume 38, Number 2 MANAGING MANAGING EDITOR EDITOR Carol (Knight '81, Carol (Knight '81, MAMA '08)'08) BestBest CONTRIBUTING CONTRIBUTING EDITOR EDITOR Kim (Suderman '05) Campbell Kim (Suderman, '05) Campbell
CONTRIBUTORS April (Loomis '96) Hansen Rachel Phelps ('09)
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ART AND DESIGN CONTRIBUTORS Josh Klekamp ('10) Melinda Ablard Smith ('90) Kelly Lawler ('11) Chad Jenkins Joshua Brisco ('17) PHOTOGRAPHERS Amy Holmquist ('09)
Jen Christenson ('07) Josh Klekamp ('10) Josh McCullock
by MidAmerica ART AND DESIGNAccent is published PHOTOGRAPHERS Nazarene University and mailed free to Daniel Hawkins ('06) Daniel Hawkins ('06) alumni, friends andVidetich supporters of MNU. It Kelly (Lawler '11) Chesley Dan is produced for University by Jeremy Hoffpauir Laura FieldsAdvancement ('13) the MNU Marketing and Communications Lindsay Willmer Office. Postage is paid at Olathe, Phillip Prado ('17) Kan., and additional mailing offices. News or comments: accent@mnu.edu
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Buil Fou From Cornfield to Community
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What would Olathe be without MNU?
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Growing Forward
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Shaping Young Men Through Football
Million
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MNU’s Strategic Plan Unveiled
$10
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Campus News
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Two coaches share their philosophy.
Pioneers Then and Now
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Fun Throwback Photos
MNU Wins $10 Million Federal Grant
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From infrastructure to wellness, exciting plans now possible.
Homecoming 2014
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Building Foundations
Accent is published by MidAmerica Nazarene University and mailed free to alumni, friends and supporters of MNU. It is produced for University Advancement by the MNU Marketing and Communications Office. Postage is paid at Olathe, Kan., and additional mailing offices.
Photo Gallery
Athletics
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Alumni News
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growing for
News or comments: accent@mnu.edu
→View galleries of photos and even more stories online at www.mnu.edu/accent. HELPFUL LINKS
STAY CONNECTED On The Cover
Junior corporate major www.mnu.edu/alumni 02communication President’s Message Britney Lewis of Kansas City, Kansas, www.mnu.edu/give 06 Campus News stands in front of Lunn Hall with a 1968 www.mnu.edu/student-referral 13class ofFaculty Newsat photo of the first 263 students (Undergrad) 20 Athletics MNU (also in front of Lunn). www.mnu.edu/referral 22 Advancing MNU (Grad & Adult) 24 Alumni News
ARTICLES HELPFUL LINKS 04 The MNU Experience www.mnu.edu/alumni 10 Why I Teach www.mnu.edu/give 14 Commencement www.mnu.edu/newsroom 17 Student Profile www.mnusports.com 18 With Purpose
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ARTICLE TITLE
From Cornfield to Community: MNU By Melinda Ablard Smith (’90)
Before the first clump of dirt was turned in a cornfield outside Kansas City, no one could have imagined what would someday be built there. That was before anyone cruised the “Fe” or even before some streets in Olathe were paved. That was before the first students at what would become MidAmerica Nazarene University walked on planks across the sidewalk-sparse campus to keep from getting muddy when it rained. That was before the sprawling College Church—with its three soaring steeples—even had one. That was long before anyone realized the impact a small liberal arts college would have on the community beyond its uniform red brick colonial buildings. Now nearly 50 years since a handful of university legends ceremoniously broke ground in that cornfield, both a university and a city have grown up there hand in hand.
Sowing in a Field of Dreams Very little has taken root in the Kansas plains without a struggle. The state motto “Ad astra per aspera”—to the stars through difficulties—testifies to that. And the pioneering town of Olathe is no different. It first incorporated in 1857 near the Santa Fe, California and Oregon trails and then after some governance issues reincorporated a year later, adding 341 residents by 1860. By the end of the Civil War, Olathe had survived a violent raid, an unstable city government, and the loss or relocation of half its buildings.
One hundred years later and nearly 2,000 miles away, delegates opposed to building more Nazarene colleges staged a fierce debate at the 1964 General Assembly in Portland, Oregon. The outcome: The general church would build another college—the first in 50 years. And although other midwestern locales were considered, the school would end up in Olathe. This was due to the leadership of founding President Dr. R. Curtis Smith and the faith, persistence and advocacy of Dr. Paul Cunningham, pastor of what would become College Church of the Nazarene. Smith’s push for a Nazarene college in the Kansas City area and Cunningham’s tireless work to bring it to Olathe encouraged the city and its leaders to enthusiastically embrace the dream. “R. R. Osborne, Olathe civic leader and banker, offered the site and other incentives to the church leaders that were too good to refuse,” says campus architect Dr. Ray Bowman. “The location in proximity to the church headquarters, Nazarene Theological Seminary, potential for student employment, and central in relationship to the churches of the new educational zone, made this the best choice of the several possible locations.” So in 1968 when Interstate 35 at Olathe was 7 years old and the city’s population was nearing 13,000, Mid-America Nazarene College welcomed its Pioneer class of 263 students to the five-building campus. The college that had sprung up from a cornfield was poised to influence every aspect of life in Olathe.
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ARTICLE TITLE
Olathe Grow a Lasting Partnership
Digital Google Earth image 2014 Map Data: Google, Landsat 05 05 ACCENT ACCENT MAGAZINE MAGAZINE // FALL FALL 2014 2014
Growing Strong Leaders In 1980, a young man from Los Angeles County headed to Kansas with one thing on his mind: football. “I grew up in southern California, and Point Loma didn’t have football, so I came to MidAmerica on a scholarship,” he says. “It was really something coming from a county at that time of 7 million to a town of 35,000.” Like so many of his friends and classmates, he fell in love with Olathe and stayed. That young man was Michael Copeland (’84), Olathe’s longest-serving mayor, now in his fourth term. But Copeland isn’t the only city leader today to have emerged from the Pioneer family. Four of the city’s seven council members also are in Olathe because of MNU. Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Services Jeff DeGraffenreid (’90, MED ’99) and Chief of Police Steven Menke (’01) both are alums. And one of the city’s largest private employers Garmin International is headed by President and CEO Clifton Pemble, class of 1986. “MidAmerica has helped set the tone for our quality of life in Olathe,” Copeland says of the city that now numbers nearly 130,000. “Alumni are serving in the school district, the hospital and at a number of organizations. From a practical business perspective, that pipeline of well-educated talent grounded in strong moral ethics—kids graduating with a Christian worldview—helps our organizations thrive and helps our community thrive.” It is not unlike what Dr. Donald Metz, the school’s first academic dean, envisioned in the early days when he prayed among the cornstalks: MidAmerica graduates preaching, teaching, building businesses and creating Christian homes.
Cultivating Community Cooperation From the beginning, MidAmerica has enjoyed a friendly, mutually beneficial relationship with the community beyond its walls. “Service projects and support of local charities have been extremely important, as well as support for growth and development of the community through active involvement with the Chamber of Commerce, service organizations and
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churches,” says President David Spittal, who also serves on the Olathe Chamber’s Council of Advisors. “The idea that ‘together we can make a difference’ is a reality for the university and community relationship.” MNU itself employs more than 250 individuals and contributes $44.6 million to the state’s economy, according to a 2012-2013 economic impact study. At least $3 million of that funnels into the local economy just from out-of-region students, says Casey Wilhm, director of business retention and expansion for the Chamber. “MNU’s influence on the local economy is certainly significant,” Wilhm says. “Each of these dollars generated as a result of the university helps keep local businesses in business, helps keep taxes in check, and helps keep our schools strong.” Although MNU’s financial impact on Olathe is easier to calculate, its spiritual influence has been no less significant. Deeply rooted in the Nazarene tradition, the university has held fast to its evangelical holiness message and missional focus. “As a Christ-centered university, in addition to our commitment to academic excellence, we are committed to live out our lives in the image and likeness of Jesus Christ,” Spittal says. “That is a high calling and one that requires trust and a passion to serve as Christ would serve.”
Plowing a Path to the Future So what lies ahead for the city born on the plains and the university planted in a cornfield? Continued cooperation, according to both Olathe and MNU leaders. “The relationship between town and gown requires constant work,” Copeland says. “And it’s incumbent upon all of us, including the graduates coming out of MidAmerica who are settling in Olathe, to get plugged into the community in a meaningful way. It’s important; we can’t just leave it to those who have gone before us.”
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www.mnu.edu
OUR MISSION. A transformative university that nurtures Christlike community, pursues academic excellence, and cultivates a passion to serve.
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CAMPUS NEWS
The Art of Great Communication The first in a planned series of quarterly workshops developed by MNU in partnership with the Olathe Public Library, the Olathe Chamber of Commerce and Coffee Lunch Coffee, was held Nov. 7, at the Olathe Community Center. Designed to help professionals from all industries refine their personal communication skills, The Art of Great Communication, featured five Kansas City area experts. Keynote speaker Harry S. Campbell gave practical advice from his years in the C-Suite for Fortune 500 companies and as owner of several startups. Additional speakers included Alana Muller, author and speaker; employment law expert Marty Jackson; Mary B. Lucas, chief resource officer at Staffmark; and Dr. Mark Hamilton, professor of communication at MNU. Learning Commons and Mabee Library Director Bruce Flanders says the partners plan to develop additional Business Toolkit Workshops to help students and community members succeed in their careers or job searches.
Center for Accelerated & Professional Education The Center for Graduate and Adult Learning has been renamed and is now the Center for Accelerated and Professional Education. Director Dr. Cathie Peterson says the change more accurately indicates to potential students that the center offers Associate of Arts degrees and a host of course offerings. Goals of the center are to: • Increase adult student enrollment thereby enriching the mission of MNU to educate and inspire servant leaders recognized for their excellence, integrity and spiritual vitality. • Heighten the awareness of MNU’s programs for the nontraditional adult student and expand professional and certificate course offerings. Visit mnu.edu/learn for more information.
OPEN ACCESS: MNU’S INSTITUTIONAL REPOSITORY The creation of the MNU Institutional Repository was announced this fall. The repository will contain faculty research articles and related scholarship, openly accessible to scholars via the Internet. According to Bruce Flanders, director of Mabee Library, the repository will be a comprehensive, freely accessible, online compilation of academic resources created at MNU. “We plan to include outstanding examples of student scholarship as well as faculty members’ traditional research articles, and monographs, theses and dissertations, book chapters, technical reports, graphical images, video, PowerPoint slide sets,
and other multi-media academic content,” he said. “This repository will be broad in scope, covering all academic disciplines.”
first Nazarene University to use the WHDL in this manner, and Flanders expects other U.S. and international universities to quickly follow.
While such repositories are not unique, the ability to start one without incurring significant cost is unusual. MNU’s project will be built on the Church of the Nazarene’s WesleyanHoliness Digital Library (WHDL) publishing platform developed by the denomination's International Board of Education (IBOE).
“The WHDL is a robust online publishing platform with advanced features, such as the ability to accommodate multi-lingual content,” Flanders said. “We are thrilled to be using the WHDL to develop this important new academic resource.”
This will allow MNU to conform to digital repository standards, while avoiding typical development and maintenance costs. MNU will be the
The MNU Institutional Repository is projected to be operational in spring 2015.
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CAMPUS NEWS
MNU Mission Statement A transformative university that nurtures Christlike community, pursues academic excellence and cultivates a passion to serve.
MNU’s new strategic plan, developed by a comprehensive cross section of MNU stakeholders, was unveiled this fall. The plan is based on four pillars or themes. • Transforming Lives • Delivering Excellence • Strengthening Enrollment • Building Resources
MNU Vision Statement To impact the world for Jesus Christ through servant leaders recognized for their excellence, integrity and spiritual vitality.
Each theme provides four strategic objectives that reflect how the plan will impact the various levels and functions of the university. Expanded organizational capacity, improved internal processes and the stewardship of financial resources are foundational. Focus is placed on mission integrity, academic opportunity, student success and the quality of the MNU experience for students, faculty and staff.
Read the plan online at mnu.edu/about/strategic-plan
Each strategic objective is supported by specific initiatives that will support and achieve the desired outcomes. A new mission and vision statement provide the foundation for growth.
Trailblazer Expands To Digital Media You remember it well: opening the pages of the latest Trailblazer, MNU’s student newspaper. Now you can experience it again on the Web at mnutrailblazer.com. The newly designed site features articles, photos and video produced by students. According to Editor-in-Chief Robbie Wegley, a senior history major from Olathe, its goal is to keep students informed, give them a voice and remind us all what a special place MNU is. For a fun read, check out “15 Things I Wish I Had Known as a Freshman,” story and photo by Sarah Wacker.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Defeat All Cancer The Pioneers took advantage of the unique opportunity of playing at Arrowhead as a way to bring attention to those fighting cancer by designating this game the “Defeat All Cancer” game. Wearing wristbands and tape in the colors designated for particular forms of cancer, MNU athletes represented friends and loved ones who have fought cancer.
Pioneers Play at Arrowhead Pioneer fans exploded in celebration when the football team defeated the Missouri Valley College Vikings, 20-17, Oct. 11, 2014, at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. The first-ever NAIA Div. I Gridiron Challenge was a huge hit with fans from both institutions as well as with those from Baker University and Benedictine College, whose teams faced off in the second game of the double header. MNU used a 10-point 4th quarter to erase a 7-point deficit and beat No. 7 Missouri Valley. The Pioneers last defeated the Vikings in 2010, the first year MNU went on to the NAIA national semifinals.
Pioneer Offensive Coordinator Bruce Pielstick, whose wife of 27 years succumbed to bladder cancer less than one year ago, said the Defeat All Cancer game provided an opportunity to touch the lives of people that have gone through or are going through this difficult disease. “We want to encourage those who are in a battle with cancer,” Pielstick said. “We want to praise and honor Jesus Christ and we want to bring attention to all forms of cancer that people are fighting.”
Old Settler’s Parade Pioneer cheerleaders and football players greet the crowd at the 116th Johnson County Old Settler’s Parade, Sept. 6, 2014. The parade draws more than 60,000 people and is recognized as Kansas’ largest parade. See more photos on the MNU Flickr account. 11 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
CAMPUS NEWS
MNU Welcomes New Faculty This Fall Kathleen Brewer, nursing; Laurie Brooks, nursing; Leanna Graham, teacher education; Jennifer Ferguson, nursing; Joy Wray, nursing; Jimmy Ntelekos, athletic training; Luke Johnson, band; and Abby Hodges, chemistry.
ANNIVERSARY
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Share your Pioneer memories with us! In just two short years, MNU will celebrate its 50th year! In anticipation of our 50th anniversary in 2016, we want to know what you remember from your time at MNU. This is your chance to send us anything: photos, stories and your favorite memories!
→ Upload at www.mnu.edu/50th Submit your thoughts or share photos about your time at MNU. We'll be collecting them to share throughout MNU's 50th anniversary year. Use the #MNU50 hashtag to tag any photos you'd like to share.
#MNU50
WWW.MNU.EDU/50th
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developing young men through
By Carol (Knight ’81, MA ’08) Best In a culture where athletes are viewed as a commodity to be used and pushed aside, Pioneer Head Football Coach Brian Willmer has another goal. He wants to develop young men with Christ as the model.
Willmer’s slogan means rather than letting others take responsibility, these men will lead their team, their co-workers, their families, from the front, forging the way through life’s challenges.
are traits that will help them succeed in all areas of life.
“There’s a shortage of healthy male leadership,” Willmer says. “That role has been void in a lot of young men’s lives. I want to help them make good choices now so they can ‘lead from the front.’”
Willmer thinks men can be shaped through the game of football and the culture developed by their coaches. For example, wearing uniforms for practice, taking practice seriously, being on time and valuing others' time
Willmer has rules apart from practice. All new players and those whose grades warrant it, have mandatory study hall twice a week. Weight training is mandatory too.
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“If special teams practice starts at 7 a.m., then 7:01 a.m. is late,” he says. “If you don’t execute well you lose games.”
WHAT ABOUT THE GAME? by Joshua Brisco and Chad Jenkins MNU’s sixth head football coach focuses his game philosophy on turnovers. For special teams, he warns that it is a phase of the game that is often overlooked, but that he has made it a point of emphasis for the Pioneers. “The purpose of defense,” Brian Willmer says, “is to get the ball back as quickly as we can. Offensively, we can't turn over the ball, and we want to be able to move the ball and put points on the board in a fashion that has a balanced attack.” Regarding special teams, Willmer says, the team practices that component of the game every day. Willmers’ Pioneers faced the largest venue they have ever played in this season. Their appearance in the inaugural NAIA Gridiron Challenge on Oct. 11 versus Missouri Valley was a double-header held in Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs. [See story on page 11.] “It was an amazing opportunity to be able to play in an NFL stadium and to play a rival of MNU that’s had a lot of good success,” Willmer says. “To play them in that venue was really an exciting thing for the program, for the school, for us as coaches. Life is about having a lot of different experiences, and this was a different experience.” “We want to first of all grow their relationship with the Lord,” Willmer says. “But secondly, we want them to earn a degree.” His assistant coaches follow Willmer’s lead and have bought into this year’s theme: The End Result. Ask Willmer what’s the end result and he’ll say, “Christ died for us, He rose again. I try to bring each practice around to that. Everything applies to this, he adds. If you choose to sleep in, what does that lead to? You might flunk. And if you flunk, you won’t graduate. That’s the end result.” But don’t think it’s all rules on Willmer’s squad. Caring discipleship is part of the equation too. Assistant coaches Bruce Pielstick and Joe Hall lead a Bible study for some of the players who have children. Willmer says they’re teaching them what it is like to be a Christlike dad.
Willmer has enjoyed a varied career, spending 15 seasons— including eight as defensive coordinator—coaching at Azusa Pacific University in California where he helped lead APU to multiple playoff appearances and two NAIA semifinals. A four-year letterman at UCLA and captain of the 1997 team, Willmer established himself as the Bruins' top linebacker during his junior and senior seasons, both years leading the team in tackles earning Honorable Mention AllPac-10 linebacker. Willmer, 39, holds a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in higher education and organizational change from UCLA. He also taught in APU’s exercise and sports science program.
Willmer encourages his athletes to use their sphere of influence to disciple others. That’s his greatest hope for every man on this team. “I want to equip and build men who are humble before God and who will be disciple makers themselves.”
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early days of pioneer football lay groundwork for today’s team By Amy Holmquist ('09) It was 1975 when Gordon DeGraffenreid became a physical education professor at MidAmerica Nazarene College. Soon after his arrival he learned the institution was researching ways to increase enrollment. “It was a challenge,” he recalls. “The female students were outnumbering the male students, almost 3-to-1. So we were looking for a program that
COACH GORDON DEGRAFFENREID
First win vs. Jewell
would bring in male students and increase visibility of the college in the community and throughout our educational zone.” DeGraffenreid surveyed several similar colleges and learned that a solid football program increased visibility of a small college in its community and helped bolster enrollment. So in the spring of 1978 college administrators
HAAC CHAMPIONS
NAIA PLAYOFFS
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To recruit, DeGraffenreid visited Nazarene churches, met with
COACH MIKE REDWINE
1979 - 1990 1982
decided to begin a football program the next fall with DeGraffenreid at the helm. The new coach had quite a task in front of him. He had no players, no football equipment and no funding for the program. So began an uphill climb to recruit, administer and raise funds in a matter of months.
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Now the DeGraffenreids have made sure they can continue to aid students and programs for years to come by naming MNU as their primary beneficiary of their Revocable Living Trust. Their gift, which places them in MNU’s Cornerstone Society, is designated to the general scholarship fund for future students.
community leaders and contacted high school guidance counselors. All the while, he worked to raise money for the newly formed team, while raising two young sons with his wife, JoAnn. That fall MNU’s first football team played four games. The DeGraffenreids stayed up late after games to get everything done.
“Although I’m partial to the football program, we couldn’t have done the program without the student body behind it,” DeGraffenreid explains. “We want to in some way show our respect and appreciation to the students by making our gift go to the general scholarship fund.”
“For the first two years, the school did not have any way to wash the equipment. A lot of times we would be washing uniforms clear up to midnight. I think we went through two sets of washing machines and dryers during that time,” DeGraffenreid says, laughing as he remembers those late nights.
Of his former athletes DeGraffenreid says, “I’ve always tried to be a Christian example as a coach to the football players and to all the students. Hopefully when they see that I’m interested in giving back to the school, they will get involved because they see their old coach getting involved.”
In 1982 the fledgling Pioneers beat William Jewell University, which kindled the rivalry that existed until Jewell changed athletic associations. The successful win against Jewell garnered MNU the exposure the college sought, resulting in features in the Kansas City Star and even Sports Illustrated.
The couple’s two sons and daughter-inlaw graduated from MNU. Their oldest son Jeff (’90, MED ’99) is Olathe’s Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Services and has three children. Son Jed (’99) works for the Johnson County Library System.
In addition to starting the football program, DeGraffenreid also founded and coached the first women’s basketball team, coached one year of cross country, 11 years of track and 13 years of football. During the course of 15 years at MNU, DeGraffenreid says many professors and students profoundly touched his family’s life.
COACH MIKE COCHRAIN
For additional information on how you can include MNU in your estate plans, please contact Roger Alexander at (913) 971-3274.
COACH JED STUGERT HAAC CHAMPIONS
2001 - 2005
COACH JONATHAN QUINN HAAC CHAMPIONS
2006 - 2008 2002 & 2003
HAAC CHAMPIONS
2009 - 2013 2008
COACH BRIAN WILLMER
2014
2010 & 2011
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PHOTO S
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SPREAD
Wayfinding signage on the newly opened campus circa 1968. 19 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
Dorm Life
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Then and Now
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$10,00 ENDOWMENT
17% ACADEMIC SUPPORT
18%
CAREER, COUNSELING & WELLNESS
13% IT NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE
10%
ADMINISTRATIVE/ OPERATIONAL
20% FACULTY DEVELOPMENT
22%
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00,000 “Once again God has provided yet another example of His ability to do more than we can even ask or imagine. We are grateful for this most recent miracle, the affirmation of God's provision and the faith of those who believed that through Jesus Christ, the impossible is still possible.” President David Spittal
MNU Earns $10 Million Federal Grant It takes persistence, organization, years of documentation and a focused vision to write a grant application for any significant amount of funding. For MNU’s recent $10 million award it took several tries, the combined effort of more than 50 individuals, and most importantly, God’s timing. In November, MNU received the first installment of the five-year Title III Department of Education Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP) grant. Grant funds will go to strengthen and create programs and services that increase academic rigor, recruitment and retention at MNU. Among the items and areas funded are network infrastructure, career services and faculty development. Plans include the creation of a Center for Academic and Professional Success to be developed over the next five years. Components of the Center include the following:
• Comprehensive Career Services including a counseling and health-wellness component • Enhanced Academic Support Services to improve opportunities for student achievement and success • An enriched Professional Development Program for faculty and staff • Expanded technology with major improvements on campus including the replacement of the network infrastructure, computer hardware and the addition of instructional technology for students and faculty • An opportunity for an endowment match of up to $1.5 million Grant project co-director Dr. Linda Alexander ('84) says this grant will “revolutionize” the way MNU fulfills its mission. “It will catapult us into the future,” Alexander says. “It will allow us to dream God-sized dreams and fulfill them as God leads us into the future.”
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Homecoming Chapel speaker Lisa (Smith ’80) Clements, Carry the Torch Award 2014, gave a poignant presentation about God’s faithfulness through tragedy. Alumna of the Year, former math professor Dr. Kathy Buxie (’72), accepts her award from Dr. Spittal. The beloved professor taught at MNU from 1974-1992 and now resides in Ohio.
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Pioneer Pete greeting alumni and friends under the Big Tent.
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Many of the 5K runners formerly on Coach Gordon DeGraffenreid’s team joined in the fun. Row one, left to right: John Blunt (’84), Paul Wieczorek (’84), Kirk Keller (’81), Dan Preston (’82). Row two: Linda Elliott (’83), Coach Gordon DeGraffenreid, Blake Wieczorek, Dan Jackson (’83), Charlie Hayes (FS ’84), Mark Morton (FS ’83), Jim Coburn (’78).
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You better be a good catch at the Pancake Breakfast.
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Chris Cakes is always a hit on Saturday morning.
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Dan Neal (’98), team captain for the Holy Smokers BBQ team, prepares an entry for the cook off. His team finished second in the beef brisket category. Homecoming spirit was evident for eight sporting events at Homecoming 2014. Pitcher Tino Luna (’14) and Outfielder Michael Gorze (’14) at the alumni baseball game. Alumni Award winners Kevin (’12) and Ashley (Mackey ’12) Liddle, Lisa (Smith ’80) Clements and James Amos (’85). Read their bios at mnu.edu/alumni-awards. 24 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
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Pioneers defeat Baker University 34-27.
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Students showing their team spirit.
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The 2014 Homecoming Court. Freshmen Div Tasinglo and Hannah Bostic; Sophomores Austin Petellin and Jazmine Parra-Navarro; Juniors Cy Pana and Caitlin St. John; King Jorge Gabriel San Jose and Queen Samantha Moore.
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Athletic Hall of Fame inductees; Matt Keeley (’04), Eric Walser former faculty/athletic trainer, Doug Antilla (’07), Ron Hill former faculty/athletic director, Paul Wieczorek (’84), Mark Wieczorek (’07).
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Men’s soccer gives a valiant fight but loses to Missouri Valley, 0-3. Lori (Cunningham ’84) Wegley received the School of Education Experto Crede alumni award for 2014-2015.
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Dr. Mike Gough, professor of business, Derek Kandt and Sophia Stockton (’13) enjoy the Alumni basketball game.
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And the Pioneers win it! Alumni basketball.
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Pioneer cheerleaders ramp up the enthusiasm at the football game.
See results of Homecoming contests at mnu.edu/alumni/ alumni-events/homecoming and athletic outcomes at mnusports.com.
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MNU ATHLETICS
Women's Soccer Qualifies for Post Season
Men’s Soccer No. 2 Going Into Tourney
Pioneer women’s soccer finished the regular season 8-10 (3-4 in conference play) and qualified for the HAAC post-season tournament for the third straight year. With a program-record two victories over Top 25 teams, the squad is headed in the right direction under third-year Head Coach Skelly Kellar. All-Conference honors go to Forward Kalyn Pfaff (first), Midfielder Misty Olsen (second) Midfielder Kara Collins (second), Defender Sarah Schmidt (second) and Midfielder Kelli Reid (third).
Men’s soccer achieved a 12-2-2 regular season record (5-1-1 in conference play) and earned a No. 2 seed in the HAAC Post-Season tournament. Coach Kevin Wardlaw won his 200th career game and the team achieved the highest ranking in program history with a No. 2 slot late in the year. Aurelien Norest (first team, HAAC Defensive Player of the Year, HAAC Co-MVP), Eddie Morales (first), Jeremie Koffi (first), Lucas Machado (second), Yann Passet (second), and Stephane Philippe (third) earned All-Conference honors.
Football Tops HAAC MNU football is back after a disappointing 2013. First-year Head Coach Brian Willmer’s Pioneers captured the HAAC with an 8-1 conference record (9-1) overall. MNU is ranked No. 9 nationwide going into the NAIA Football National Championship Series. This will be MNU’s ninth playoff appearance. Javon Taylor leads the offense with 113.7 rushing yards per game, and a stout defense is in the Top 10 nationally in several categories.
28 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
MNU ATHLETICS
Cross Country & Track Return MNU Director of Athletics Kevin Steele announced in August that he has hired Nate Wiens ('01) as the new head Cross Country and Track & Field coach. Wiens is an MNU grad
and spent last year as the associate head coach at University of California - Riverside after five years as the coach to the sprinters and hurdlers at Iowa State. MNU will compete
in the ’15-’16 season after a 5-year hiatus. (Photo: Vintage MNU track meet) For information contact Coach Wiens at nawiens@mnu.edu.
Want to learn more? Visit mnusports.com
VOLLEYBALL HAAC CHAMPS Pioneer volleyball captured the regular-season HAAC championship for the third straight season and earned the No.1 seed in the HAAC post
season tournament. The team went 2014 (7-2 HAAC) and was ranked in the Top 25 most of the year. Coach Kristin Steele won her 100th career match at
MNU early in the season. The Pioneers advanced to the tourney final but lost to Evangel.
29 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
Executive Mentor Program Launched By Carol (Knight ’81, MA ’08) Best
N
ew university graduates benefit from an experienced professional’s guidance to land that first job, make smart career moves and navigate the business world. To help them achieve success and put their education to work, MNU's Office of Alumni Relations and School of Business launched an Executive Mentor Program this fall.
board to help create the program. The board researched other university programs, such as the one at Kansas State, and then tailored the ideas to fit MNU. The program already has more than 50 mentors in place from professions such as banking, finance, advertising, technology and accounting. Professors and program organizers matched students to mentors.
The program pairs seniors with successful business professionals. Mentors assist students by advising them on interpersonal skills, the job search and networking opportunities. Alumni Relations Director Kevin Garber (’89) says the program is being piloted with the School of Business this year with plans to expand into other disciplines in the future.
MNU Professor Dr. Yorton Clark thinks the program will help students in their transition to the job market.
“I would have benefitted from having a mentor when I graduated,” Garber says. “I also know the joy of helping others network and achieve their goals. A mentoring program is a win-win for both parties.” With help from MNU friend Dave Warner, retired executive from Ryan, LLC, Garber assembled an advisory 30 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
“We spent just about two hours together talking life, careers, college and growing up,” “This program allows the students to increase their self-confidence and assertiveness by obtaining information and personal support from a proven and qualified professional,” Clark says. “It’s a wonderful platform for developing meaningful relationships. Mentors share valuable advice and the mentees learn things that assist them in a smoother transition into their next stage in life.”
Alum and mentor Steve Miner (’14), a performance operations manager at Ericsson, anticipates a synergistic relationship through the mentoring program. “We spent just about two hours together talking life, careers, college and growing up,” Miner says. “I am really going to enjoy helping his growth but also learning from him. I think it is an incredible thing MNU is doing for the students. I really hope that the professionals get as much out of it as the students do. It’s a great opportunity to mold the future.” Mentors should have 10 years of professional business experience, the interest and ability to nurture a student’s professional development and access to a network of professional and personal contacts to draw on as a resource to assist students. A mentor does not have to be an alumnus of MNU. For more information on the program go to mnu.edu/mentoring, email mentoring@mnu.edu or call Alumni Relations at (913) 971-3275.
UPCOMING EVENTS 2015 EVENTS JAN 17 JAN 23-24
Alumni Day at MNU Basketball
Cook Center, MNU Campus connect.mnu.edu/alumni/alumnidaybasketball
Great Wolf Lodge Family Weekend Great Wolf Lodge, Kansas City, KS connect.mnu.edu/greatwolflodge
FEB 6-9
Young Alumni Ski Trip
FEB 10
MNU Tuesdays: All Things Pioneer
FEB 21
Alumni Gathering
MAR 13-18 APR 10
Winter Park, Colorado connect.mnu.edu/alumni/ski
Featuring MNU Winter and Spring Coaches Bell Center, MNU Campus - www.mnu.edu/MNUTuesdays
New Theatre Restaurant, Overland Park, Kansas connect.mnu.edu/alumni/newtheatre
Colorado Young Alumni Mission Trip
March 13-18, 2015 • connect.mnu.edu/alumni/goldenbell
Golden Bell Camp, Divide, Colorado www.connect.mnu.edu/alumni/goldenbell
President’s Honors
Cook Center, MNU Campus www.presidentshonors.org
APR 14
MNU Tuesdays: Featuring Dr. Carla Sunberg
MAY 8
Leadercast
JUNE 20-27
COLORADO MISSION TRIP
connect.mnu.edu/leadercast FRIDAY, MAY 8, 2015 • 7:45 AM - 3:30 PM A one-day leadership development event hosted at MidAmerica Nazarene University
Bell Cultural Events Center, MNU Campus www.mnu.edu/MNUTuesdays
Bell Cultural Events Center, MNU Campus connect.mnu.edu/leadercast
The Footsteps of St. Paul
THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST. PAUL TOUR & CRUISE JUNE 20-27, 2015 www.pioneeradventures.com
Tour & Cruise www.pioneeradventures.com
For more event details, visit www.mnu.edu/alumni
31 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
ALUMNI & FRIENDS
ALUMNI NEWS an international training network devoted to coaching and training pastors and church leaders.
Rev. Steven Hoffman (’85) was elected superintendent of the Prairie Lakes District Church of the Nazarene.
Michael Barton (’81) serves as a board certified hospice chaplain for St. Joseph Health System in Southern California.
Michele (Knoblich ’88) Stroh was awarded Sanford Health Employee of the Year from Sanford South University.
Dr. Barbara Moore (’91) pastor of global outreach at Bethany (Oklahoma) First Church of the Nazarene, received the Doctor of Humane Letters from Southern Nazarene University at its 2014 commencement.
Bryan Porter (’96) was appointed chief technology officer at DataBank Holding, Ltd. Dr. David (’75) and Lisa (Jacobson ’78) Frisbie have written Managing Stress in Ministry, published by Beacon Hill Press. The Frisbies have published more than 20 books on the topics of marriage and family life.
Alicia Hilton (’98) is serving as missionary in Zambia. Read her blog at myanythings.weebly.com Rev. Don (’83) and Diann (Sullivan fs ’83) Diehl accepted the assignment to pastor Marion (Ohio) First Church of the Nazarene.
Rev. Tom Taylor (’75) was elected superintendent of the Southern California District of the Church of the Nazarene.
Paul Young (’88) was featured in a Kansas City Star article titled, “The teachers we look up to.” Young teaches history in Spring Hill, Kansas. He was one of six teachers from the Kansas City metro featured.
Dr. Larry McKain (’78) was appointed superintendent of the Chicago Central District of the Church of the Nazarene.
Dr. David D. Durey (’79) is now the director of worship ministries at Trinity Evangelical Free Church in Lakeville, Minnesota. He also serves as vice president for administration at T-NET International,
Rev. David (’84) and Carol (McCollough ’84) Sharpes have relocated to Olathe, Kansas where he is now senior pastor at College Church of the Nazarene.
32 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
Doug Smith (’90) accepted a pastoral assignment at Hope Point Nazarene Church in Yuba City, California.
Stephanie (Tayloe ’99) Dulin published a children’s picture book titled Fearful Frannie.
John Booth (’04) is now head football coach at Manatee High School in Bradenton, Florida.
Christopher Paul Manbeck, MD, (’04) graduated from the University of Kansas Medical School. He and his wife, Heather BullardManbeck, DO, are in residency in Little Rock, Arkansas. Paul is the son of the late Rev. Chris Manbeck (‘72).
ALUMNI & FRIENDS
Beau Carlson (’05), owner of Honest Carry Goods, was recently featured in Capital Style, an Ohio women's fashion magazine, and on Good Day Columbus, the Fox affiliate's local morning show. Beau designs and handcrafts his leather goods and many are made to order. He and his wife Suzie (Moessner ’07), live in Columbus, Ohio, with their two daughters. Philip White (’04) tells the unlikely tale of how Harry Truman overcame a double split in his party, a Republican "dream ticket" and the Berlin Blockade to win the 1948 campaign in his latest book Whistle Stop: How 31,000 Miles of Train Travel, 352 Speeches, and a Little Midwest Gumption Saved the Presidency of Harry Truman.
Aaron Bennett (’05) is now public relations and special events manager at SAFEHOME, an organization for survivors of domestic violence in the Kansas City area.
Josh Klekamp (’10) is completing a Master of Design at University of Washington where he is also a teaching assistant. He was one of seven accepted to the program this year. Jordan (Hobson ’11) Klekamp is a youth and family counselor at Friends of Youth.
Angie Groff (’14) was promoted to Wellness Coordinator at Quest Diagnostics.
Amber Rhoades (’10) was promoted to the position of recruiter for the University of Kansas School of Business.
Britt Dowd (’11) is now owner of Green Again Lawn, a lawn service in the Greater Kansas City area.
Rachel Hindman, RN, BSN, (’06) won the Clinical Excellence Award for Nurse as Teacher from Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Andrew Yates (’12) is now manager of public affairs for Bott Radio Network.
Megan Roberts, RN, BSN, (’11) recently joined the U.S. Navy Reserves as a critical care nurse.
David Nelson, RN, BSN, (’14) won the PREMIER Nurse of the Year award from Miami County Medical Center.
Brian Huther (’12) performed in Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s production of “Our Town.”
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33 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
ARTICLE TITLE
The University Fund
Give.
So our students can prepare to change the world.
Make a difference.
Give today.
MNU students are working actively to transform the world through service and Christ-centered career preparation.
www.mnu.edu/give-online 877.496.8668
Be part of the transformation by giving to the University Fund. Your dollars go directly to equip students to change the world, both now and in the future. Be part of the change. Support the University Fund.
→ BIRTHS - Help us welcome our newest Pioneers
→ MARRIAGES
1) Andrew (’06) and Cori (Quistad ’06) Ballew, a son: Quinn Manu, born September 3, 2014.
14) Jeremy and Margaret (Frei ’05) Latchaw, a son: Daniel Thomas, born September 11, 2014.
Corey and Dr. Heather (Attig ’00) McLaughlin, Oct. 11, 2014.
2) Daniel (’10) and Lisa (Koehn ’05) Berg, a daughter: Rylee Harper, born November 12, 2013.
15) Carson and Lindsay (Johnson ’09) Lucas, a daughter: Lillian Mae, born November 23, 2013.
Zach and Alyssa (Chisam ’12) Madden, Nov. 8, 2013.
3) Jason and Jana (Potter ’05) Burnham, a daughter: Madelyn Hope, born January 21, 2014.
16) Jeffrey (’11) and Jocelyn (Seifert ’10) Myers, a daughter: Bristol Sloan, born September 19, 2014.
4) Jordan and Kelly (Lawler ’11) Chesley, a daughter: Rowan Jones, born August 26, 2014.
17) Zach and Danielle (Rhoades ’08) Nash, a daughter: Finley Noelle, born June 22, 2014.
5) Brandon (’06) and Brooke (Dye ’03) Coffey, a daughter: Ellen Mae, born May 29, 2014.
18) Jeff and Kelsi (Thorton ’06) Pio, a son: Weston James, born September 1, 2014.
6) Dane (’10) and Shayna (Smith ’09) Conant, a son: Daxton Steel, born September 4, 2014.
19) Adam (fs ’06) and Bethani Rhodes, a son: Garrett Michael, born June 15, 2014.
7) Jason and Kara (Bachman ’99) Friedline, a son: August Henry, born August 15, 2014.
20) Matt (’07) and Diana Schneider, a daughter: Brielle Reese, born June 6, 2014.
8) Thomas (fs ’11) and Kaitlin (Fillipi ’12) Gray, a son: Landon Wayne, born August 28, 2014.
21) Clint (’06) and Keri Snyder, a son: Kingston Cody, born June 19, 2014.
9) Paul (’94) and Heidi Jo Haddix, a daughter: Maggie Mae, born September 13, 2014. 10) Mark (’88) and Karen (Adelsperger ’89) Hayse, adopted two daughters: Jennifer (age 6) and Isabella (age 4) on June 26, 2014. 11) Joe (’05) and Liz Hoffman, a son: Josiah Michael, born August 28, 2014. 12) Jeremiah (’08) and Michelle (Clark ’07) Johnson, a son: Blaise Monroe, born May 27, 2014.
22) Tanner (’11) and Elizabeth (Tader ’09) Stevens, a daughter: Charlotte Grace, born September 14, 2014.
3
Michael (’13) and Brianna (Davis, ‘13) Morrison, July 13, 2013. Mike and Jessica (Jandl, ’00) Gower, June 28, 2014. Colton (’14) and Sarah (Schmalzried ’15) Easdon, June 14, 2014. Eric (’12) and Leslie (Smith ’13) Newlin, Dec. 21, 2013. Brent (’94) and Rhonda (Tevebaugh) Myers, July 4, 2014. Rowdy and Dr. Kristin (Thornton ’05) Bolinger, Jan. 4, 2014. Jared (’12) and Karissa (Wangberg ’12) Menard, June 15, 2013.
23) Ben (’10) and Jenna (Matson ’08) Swinger, a daughter: Ellsy Lucille, born June 10, 2014.
Seongmin and Christina (Wilkins ’13) Cho, June 14, 2014.
24) Brady (’08) and Karalie (Hale ’07) Thelander, a son: Knox Benjamin, born June 17, 2014.
John (’13) and Rebekah (Wilkins ’13) Oster, June 14, 2014.
25) Montez (’12) and Quincy Willis, a daughter: Nilah Nicole, born April 10, 2014.
7
13) Nathan (fs ’05) and Melissa (Evans ’05) Kellum, a daughter: Henley Elisabeth, born June 12, 2014.
2
Kian and Jayme (Crawshaw ’04) Schnabel, July 11, 2014.
→ CONDOLENCES Ronald D. Cherry (fs ’73), Aug. 22, 2014. Bruce Wendel (fs ’82), April 18, 2014. Russell Wayne LaRue (fs ’88), Jan. 25, 2014. Charles “Rusty” Huntington (’91), Dec. 26, 2013.
4
Dr. Keith Bell, former professor and vice president for academic affairs, Oct. 6, 2014. Rev. Dr. Darrell Moore, former vice president for institutional advancement, Sept. 27, 2014. 35 ACCENT MAGAZINE / FALL 2014
University Advancement 2030 East College Way Olathe KS 66062-1899 Change Service Requested
Friday, April 10 | 6:30 p.m. MNU Cook Center Save the date for the 2015 President’s Honors. This signature event to benefit student scholarships has raised more than $1,337,000 in just three years. Join the MNU community in honoring Drs. Paul and Connie Cunningham with the Lifetime Achievement Award as we celebrate generosity and provide for future generations of MNU students. Last year’s event sold out. Be sure to reserve your tickets early!
Enjoy live and silent auctions, opening reception, live entertainment and dinner.
To learn about sponsorship opportunities, contact Todd Garrett at 913.971.3605.
LEARN MORE AND PURCHASE TICKETS AT WWW.PRESIDENTSHONORS.ORG