2019-2020
roundUP Magazine
The Faces of Our Heroes From Ideas to Market Ranger Events
Contents 04 05 R O U N D U P 2019-2020
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ALUMNI DIRECTOR LETTER ALUMNI BOARD PRESIDENT LETTER
O U T S TA N D I N G G R A D U AT E S 2 0 2 1
08 18 20
O U T S TA N D I N G SENIORS 2020
RANGER EVENTS
HOMECOMING 2019
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T H E FA C E S O F O U R HEROES
Northwestern faculty and alumni make a difference during COVID-19. Three teachers and six healthcare professionals are featured for their dedication and compassion during the 2020 pandemic.
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22 23 26 28
SPORTS HALL OF FA M E 2 0 2 0 THANK-A-THON 2019
L I L’ R A N G E R S IN REMEMBRANCE & CLASS NOTES
FROM IDEAS TO MARKET
Two Rangers turned entrepreneurs share their stories about how they achieved their goals.
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2019 – 2020
roundUP MAGAZINE
University President: Dr. Janet Cunningham Official Publication Published annually by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Editors: John Allen & Kat Lunn Art Direction/Designer: Kat Lunn Writer: Caitlin Hofen Change of address notices and other correspondence may be sent to: John Allen Director, Alumni Relations Northwestern Student Center 709 Oklahoma Blvd. Alva, OK 73717 580-327-8593 nwalumni@nwosu.edu For information about making a contribution to Northwestern Oklahoma State University, contact: Allen E. “Skeeter” Bird Chief Executive Officer 709 Oklahoma Blvd. Alva, OK 73717 580-327-8593 aebird@nwosu.edu Alumni Association Board Officers President: Donna Anderson Vice President: Jeremiah Campbell Secretary/Treasurer: John Allen Recording Secretary: Kandee Almgren Visit us online at: my.nwfoundation.com NWOSUAlumni @NWFoundationAlu nwfoundationalumni NWOSUAlumni
roundUP magazine is published by the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association office. It is mailed to more than 2,000 alumni, parents and friends of Northwestern throughout the country and world. To change your mailing address, send an email to NWalumni@nwosu.edu; write the roundUP magazine, 709 Oklahoma Blvd., Alva, Oklahoma 73717; or call 580-327-8593.
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R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Dear Ranger Family, Welcome to the 2019-2020 issue of roundUP, which once again celebrates the journeys of our alumni and the ever-growing legacy of Northwestern. We have always considered, without saying it, that each issue is dedicated to every single alum. This year, however, we have taken a different approach and stepped out of our “routine.” In February we said our “see you laters” to Allison (Cunningham) Zimmerman, ‘09. At the age of 33 her life on earth ended, but the beautiful spirit and the optimistic essence of Allison left an imprint on our hearts. This remarkable woman of grace remains a blessing and her story continues. I first met Allison as a colleague when I began working at the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association office in December 2013. Allison shared with all of us a calming presence that included perseverance, loyalty to the mission, concern for others and natural class. Her contributions were noteworthy, and she was a joy to work with. She left our group to move full-time into the mass communications classroom as an instructor in August 2014. Allison’s passion for helping her students succeed went far beyond the classroom and video labs. In one-on-one conversations, she dispensed advice, encouragement and – as I have heard from several of her students – the “push” students needed to believe in themselves and to raise their ambitions to new levels. Allison made a difference. It was noted in her obituary that Allison’s greatest joy was dancing with her children – Brooklyn and Zane – in the kitchen of their home. This was not surprising to me. Her strength to press on, set aside life’s obstacles and appreciate her blessings with unfettered happiness is undeniable. As I wrote earlier, Allison’s story continues. It is within the hearts and souls of her many students who will take Allison’s lessons, her kindness and her encouragement with them to share with another generation. Her story continues in her children and her family who experienced her enormous capacity to love. And her story lives in all of us who knew her and loved her; knowing Allison made all of us better people. Allison’s zest for life fills me with hope. I hope that every educator – here at Northwestern and across the globe, even those with “tough-as-nails” reputations – will have Allison’s determination to do all they can to help their students be successful. I hope that all of us, like Allison, can share kindness. And like Allison, I hope that every single one of us will enthusiastically, without reservation, dance…with our children, our family and our friends. Kick off the shoes, throw on the laughter, and dance. Feel blessed. Share joy. Make a difference. Allison, this one is for you.
John Allen Director, Alumni Relations Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association
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Dear Ranger Nation, Life has taken a different direction since my last letter representing the Northwestern Alumni Board. What has not changed is our ability to come together as Rangers and help one another through tough times. At Northwestern Oklahoma State University, we take care of each other and our community. Through the lowest lows and COVID-19, we have a unified presence of leadership in a storm of an unknown future. Leadership is the cornerstone of successful transition from pandemic to prosperity. As we learn who we are at our core through adversity, we also see glimpses of who we will be when this uncertain time is over. History is being written all around us. When it is in print for the future generations of Rangers, they will know we endured, we stood strong, and we were leaders. I dedicate my welcome to all the leaders making the tough decisions on shifting sand. You are our future; thank you for your service. Ride, Rangers, Ride.
Donna Anderson President Northwestern Alumni Board
Allison with her children, Brooklyn and Zane.
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Outstanding Graduates 2021 Ranger Spirit will not give in to COVID-19.
Given the cancellation of Spring Alumni Reunion 2020 due to the Pandemic, the Northwestern Alumni Board voted in its June meeting to recognize the Outstanding Graduates – originally named for distinction in 2020 – at the Northwestern Spring Alumni Reunion 2021, scheduled for Saturday, April 24, 2021. Please mark your calendars now and plan on celebrating these individuals and their outstanding achievements with us next spring.
Alexandria Carmon, Arts Category Oklahoma City, Okla. 2016; Vocal Performance
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Alexandria Carmon was cast in her first professional performance in 2016, performing the role of Mercedes in the opera Carmen by Georges Bizet. She has since performed various roles in productions with several opera venues. Carmon is currently pursuing two master’s degrees in Vocal Pedagogy and Vocal Performance. Her passion for the arts goes beyond the stage as a performer and the classroom as a student. As a teacher and a vocal scientist, Carmon instills a firm basis of technique in her voice and piano students. She teaches all styles ranging from musical theatre to contemporary commercial music. In another role as the Education Outreach Coordinator for Painted Sky Opera, Oklahoma City, Carmon serves to establish an appreciation of the arts in school-aged children by bringing live opera into the Oklahoma City metro schools.
Rich Cantillon, Business/Professional Category Blackwell, Okla. 1981; Business Administration
Rich Cantillon serves as a major player in promoting not only Ponca City, Okla., but also the State of Oklahoma. As the President and CEO of the Ponca City Chamber of Commerce since 2004, Cantillon’s passion for his home state has been recognized with several awards of distinction, including the Executive Leadership Award – State Chamber of Oklahoma (2000) and the Oklahoma Chamber Executive of the Year (2008). Cantillon’s enthusiasm for service and leadership has benefitted a number of organizations. He has served on the board of the University of Oklahoma Center for Chamber of Excellence, as well as an instructor. Cantillon also serves as an instructor for the Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce Executives. He is currently a member of the U.S. Chamber Institute Board.
Tommi Leach, Education Category
Stillwater, Okla. 1976; Elementary Education/1981; Master of Education Tommi (Earnheart) Leach is grateful for Northwestern’s influence in her career as an educator. Her career accomplishments have been many, but her greatest reward from a career as an educator is seeing the success of her students. “I have seen my former students become successful in all walks of life… and think ‘Wow, I taught them how to read!’ It is so amazing.” Leach recently retired as the Academic Coordinator for the Oklahoma Department of CareerTech Education. Her support for and participation in excellence in education have been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including OKACTE Guidance Division McCharen Award (2018) and the Women in CareerTech Leadership, Making a Difference Award (2018).
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Outstanding Graduates 2021 Patricia Mitchell, Humanitarian Category Enid, Okla. 2013; Business Administration
Between 2001 and 2006, Patricia Mitchell served as a court advocate for the YMCA of Enid, (Okla.), assisting more than 1,500 victims of domestic violence. During part of this time and beyond, Mitchell also served in more than 10 organizations handling the issues of domestic violence and sexual abuse. In 2010, she became the Executive Director for the 4RKids Foundation in Enid. The 4RKids Foundation provides multiple job opportunities and services to individuals with disabilities. To better serve her community and non-profit organizations, Mitchell continued her education through Northwestern, online, while working full time. Mitchell’s community involvement covers several organizations, including Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Social Work Advisory Board and the Women in Business Advisory Board of Enid. Her most recent accomplishments include Leadership Greater Enid (2013), Vance AFB Honorary Commander (2015) and Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year (2019).
Clay Reed, M.D., Ranger Recognition Category North Bethesda, Md. 2013; Biology and Chemistry
Dr. Clay Reed, a third-generation graduate of Northwestern, credits the university and the Northwestern community for giving him the opportunities to follow his dream. “My favorite memory of Northwestern are the close connections I made with the professors and the other students.” After graduation, he was selected in the University of Oklahoma’s College of Medicine program. Dr. Reed is convinced that the exceptional education received at Northwestern helped him excel in medical school. He graduated as the number one ranked medical student from a class of almost 200 students. With these credentials, Dr. Reed obtained a residency physician position with the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. In July 2020, he began his Hematology Oncology Fellowship at the National Cancer Institute within the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Md.
Greg Bowman, Ranger Spirit Category Alva, Okla. 1982; Economics
His constant smile, the energetic “welcome” and his unmistakable pride for the Ranger Nation are some of the traits of this year’s Ranger Spirit honoree. Greg Bowman brings enthusiasm to every Northwestern event he attends. For years, he has carried the torch of tradition for the Rowdy Rangers in supporting Northwestern students, alumni, and the Northwestern community by providing great food and loud encouragement. Bowman leads the preparation of the smoked meat and side dishes for Northwestern’s Ranger Lunch on the Square, served after the annual Homecoming Parade. In the spring, he and his wife, Sarah, help feed baseball fans by preparing the “special recipe” hot dogs for the annual Baseball, Hot Dogs and Apple Pie event in Enid, Okla. Bowman also served on the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association Board as a trustee and the Northwestern Alumni Board as a member and president.
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R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Outstanding Seniors 2020
TOP: Megan Brown, Colton Budy, Julia Buckingham and Aleysa Franz. MIDDLE: Alondra Galindo, Chanel Martin, Aaron Pierce and Katelyn Pierce. BOTTOM: Jacqueline Ruhl, Alysson Stewart, Joni Welch and Tiffany Willson.
Other 2020 Award Winners T.C. Carter Award – Alondra Galindo, Morgan Morris, Katelyn Pierce and Isabella Reyes DeSERVING Ranger Award – Ethan Sacket John F. Kennedy Award – Tiffany Willson Joe Dollins Merit Award – Riley Wakefield John Ted Meier Student Teaching Award – Trenton Harmon Newman Civic Fellows Award – Landry Gaddy Sabin and Pearl Percefull Scholarship Award – Mary Catherine Berntsen and Caitlyn Marie Shortnacy John Sheffield Teacher of the Year Award – Mistie Kline, Lecturer of Psychology, Psychology Department
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SAVE THE DATE
APRIL 24, 2021
Spring Alumni Reunion
Classes to be honored: 1950, 1951, 1960, 1961, 1970, 1971, 1995, 1996, 2010, 2011, 2015 and 2016
Honored Guests:
Outstanding Graduates 2021 Outstanding Seniors 2020 and 2021
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The Faces of Our Heroes by Kat Lunn
The Ranger community makes a difference in the midst of a global pandemic. Leading with Empathy
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
When Northwestern classes went online in the spring semester due to COVID-19, Dr. Steven Maier, Professor of Physics and Department Chair of Natural Sciences, knew he needed to teach in a way that would ensure students would not fall through the cracks. Maier set out to engage his students with fun and, most important, empathy.
With “dad jokes” and background music, Maier recorded himself doing experiments and visually explaining concepts. He did more video work for one specific class, Inquiry Based Physics, which is set primarily in a lab. “I felt like the students needed to see the equipment being utilized and, as concretely as possible, the data that would be generated from their experiments,” said Maier. “A lot of little things I did in the videos I did knowing some might never watch it. Even though I was putting time into them, I wasn’t losing sleep trying to get them done. I tried to make them informative and rewarding.” Maier demonstrated physics concepts like contact forces and freefall using lab equipment and fun props. He said students seemed to enjoy the videos. “Dr. Maier did an excellent job of reinventing his way of teaching when Northwestern went online,” said Liberty Bird, Northwestern sophomore. “He made sure everyone understood the material by creating step-by-step videos. He made these videos enjoyable to watch by adding a quirky joke or funny theme song. Dr. Maier outdid himself and made my quarantine time more enjoyable while completing my classes online.” His other classes met over Zoom, where he lectured and worked problems on his shared computer screen. At the end of class, Maier would record a short video summarizing what content was discussed in class. The Hard Part? “Not knowing whether or not the students were with me,” said Maier, responding to what was most difficult for him. “I wondered if some students really were engaged and if they were getting anything out of the course. As a teacher, you want to make sure the students are there with
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you and that they are learning the content as we go along. “There wasn’t a way for me to know what everyone’s circumstances were. I gave them the resources and the tools to get the content, in hopes the students would benefit from them.” One thing Maier emphasized in his classes and the entire Science Department was being empathetic. “Ordinarily, we would impose hard deadlines; you don’t hit the deadlines, there are consequences,” explained Maier. “There was a huge shift with the movement to remote instruction. The shift for me was encouraging people to reconsider what ‘deadline’ means. Additionally, another consideration was whether or not there should be the same consequences and expectations for participation. I really tried to open the doors in terms of what’s acceptable by not reducing the rigor, but trying to be more open about how we can get things done in the class.”
Dr. Maier with two students viewing a solar eclipse in 2017.
The Silver Lining A sudden boot into the unknown - isolation, fear of exposure to the virus, crumbling plans and new expectations - was the experience of many when COVID-19 shutdowns began in spring 2020.
Tara Woodmansee, ’11, Arkansas City, Kans., high school English teacher, experienced feelings of shock as the whole state of Kansas shut down. “The rug had been pulled out from underneath us all,” said Woodmansee. “As a teacher, I had no idea that the last day prior to our spring break would be the last time I’d ever see my students for the 2019-2020 school year. I wasn’t ready. None of us were.” Students and teachers responded to the pandemic in many different ways. The unknown led to people shutting down emotionally or being incredibly bored, while others didn’t have access to technology or other necessities. Students who worked at grocery stores were deemed “essential workers” and became exhausted at the amount of hours they had to endure. Pushing On Weeks of curriculum had to be reworked for use in Google Classroom or via paper “take home” packets. Normal teacher duties became complicated with weekly attendance check-ins through persistent phone calls to students and parents. Woodmansee knew that with tensions and emotions rising, she needed to engage her students to break up the monotony both she and her students were feeling. “I started posting nonsense in Google Classroom as creative writing prompts. It was meant to be a distraction, and it worked. My honor students really loved the absurdity of the prompts, and we started reconnecting over email and Google Classroom commentary to reestablish the relationships we’d built in person. It became a bridge to help close the gap between all of our bubbles of isolation, and it provided a normality for us to latch onto. This back-and-forth gave us all something to look forward to each week. Now, thanks to the creativity of my students, I know several ways to conquer the globe using pineapples.” (see samples of student writing, in inset box, at right) The creative writing prompts were just the beginning of what led Woodmansee to continue to
strengthen relationships with her students during the lockdown. “The relationships that had already been built became even more important when we realized we were going to have to sustain each other. Weekly check-ins, memes, and sanctioned social media contact were lifelines for all of us in isolation.” Ultimately, the students are the “push” educators like Woodmansee need to continue. The Opportunity During the summer break, Woodmansee continued to focus on her students. She is excited about the opportunity to streamline her efforts to meet the needs of her students. “I’m trying to ensure my classroom is prepared for a safe return to face-to-face learning, my curriculum is aligned to the new state recommendations, and my collaborative efforts with other departments continue through the uncertainty of the future.” COVID-19 has given many individuals a new resilience for life and an appreciation for their profession.
The Prompt:
Explain to me your plans for world domination. Plans must somehow include pineapples. Student Answers:
1) “It’s pretty simple if you think about it. Just have enough pineapples on standby so you never run out of them when you chuck the pineapples at your enemies (aim for the neck).” 2) “I’m going to start a pineapple selling business and advertise that the pineapples extend the life expectancy of people. We’re going to put out a lot of propaganda and fake science experiments.
Once a lot of people are eating my pineapples, I’ll activate the nanobots we planted in the pineapples that control people’s brains. Then I, being head of the company, will have control of the people who ate my pineapples and use them to gain control of the people who didn’t eat my pineapples.Soon everybody will bend to my will.”
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The Faces of Our Heroes continued
Now that the school year is over, I have time to reflect on how my first year in teaching had its successes, failures, and its early unexpected ending. “Furthermore, I have taken the time to celebrate that I am living my dream of being an English teacher. COVID-19 might have put a damper on that dream by ensuring that I never got to say goodbye to my students, but it did not take away how much I cared nor the relationships we formed, how much they learned, or how much I learned from them.” R O U N D U P 2019-2020
-Caitlin Evans, ’19, English Teacher, Enid, Okla. High School
Heroism does not define what educators do. Heroism reveals who educators are.” -Dr. Christee Jenklink, ’76, Associate Dean, School of Education
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Northwestern Alumni in Healthcare
Those who put their lives at risk to take care of the sick are our heroes. Healthcare workers are among the many working on the frontlines, serving us in this public health crisis. All over the country, Northwestern alumni in healthcare are working tirelessly to treat those who have contracted COVID-19, and also to prevent the spread of it. We recognize them for facing this crisis with bravery and selflessness. These interviews originally took place in March 2020.
“The time we are going through has really opened my eyes wider to what is expected of me and my fellow nurses working in this field. “It is a difficult time with changing protocols and managing family primarily over the phone while doing my best to fill their role at the bedside of their loved one, all while taking care of my own well-being. Regardless, it has strengthened my love for what I do and the patients I care for.” Kelsey Hammock, BSN, RN St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, ICU Class of 2017
“I have gained the experience of greater flexibility during these unprecedented times. There are now specific restrictions on treatments we are accustomed to performing, due to the risks to the patient. “I have a big heart for my patients and their families. Compassion goes a long way. With my career as both an ICU and flight nurse, the patient’s immediate family is another important focus. Taking time to answer their questions eases their pain with what is most likely the worst days of their lives.” Drew Lancaster, BSN, RN Air Evac Lifeteam; Flight Nurse Class of 2007
“It is very difficult when we have to tell family members that they are not allowed in to see their loved one. It is heartbreaking when they realize that hug or kiss might have been the last one they will ever get from their loved one. “This is a critical time to show both professionalism and compassion. I have been reminded often how blessed I am to serve others.” Megan Middleton, BSN, RN Mercy Hospital, Oklahoma City; Emergency Room Class of 2017
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“One of the hardest parts about being an ICU nurse during this time is that we are having to have difficult conversations with families about end-of-life plans and care over the phone. Their loved one is not able to see them, and they are often scared and confused. I always try to imagine myself on the other side of the phone call and what I would want to hear. I know that I can’t fill their shoes completely, but I do my absolute best to make sure every patient feels that I am fully invested in their care and they are not alone. I am right there to hold their hand every step of the way. “At the same time, one of the greatest opportunities is being able to be a part of nursing during a time where research and exploratory treatment is changing almost daily. We are all learning so much as new research is being released.” Shalyn Monsees, BSN, RN St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center; ICU Class of 2019
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
“One of the hardest parts of this is that patients’ family members are not allowed to visit their loved ones. Being in isolation has made our patients feel very lonely, but this is the best practice at this time in order to keep everyone safe. “We do our best to keep family members up-to-date regarding their loved one’s condition.” Lauren Miller, BSN, RN Norman Regional Healthplex; Post Coronary Care Unit Class of 2019
“This pandemic has provided the opportunity to learn. With any new disease entity, we find ourselves clamoring for knowledge. What has been an inspiration to all of us practicing has been the fact that those same individuals who have been throwing out disease revelations and research findings with amazing rapidity have also given us hope. They have presented an incredible amount of new information that has been very helpful in our management. “I also have been truly inspired by the people I work with, including other physicians, advanced practice providers, nurses, aides, administration people, maintenance workers, housekeeping staff and central stores people. None of them are shirking their responsibility and they are fearless.” Mark Myers, M.D., F.C.C.P., Pulmonologist Jane Phillips Medical Center; Ascension Medical Group St. John Pulmonology, Bartlesville, Okla. Class of 1982
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Homecoming, originally scheduled for Oct. 8-10, has been postponed. All GAC sports competitions are suspended until at least December 31, 2020. The league will announce revised schedules at a later date.
Stay up to date on the latest Homecoming news here: https://www.nwosu.edu/news/northwestern-announces-2020-homecoming-postponed. The QR code at right also can be used.
Open your smartphone camera, tap the screen to focus and click the pop up to open the website.
New Foundation & Alumni website to be unveiled in Fall 2020 Follow our social media pages for updates
ournorthwestern.org 15
FROM IDEAS TO MARKET
by Caitlin Hofen
Surrounded by countless numbers of ingredients, measuring cups and multiple test batches, famous chefs to at-home cooking enthusiasts have a dream to make new food creations to feed the hungry public. Following hours of preparation, revisions and even perspiration, ideas become reality and new products are born.
Two Rangers followed the actions of other culinary artists and, with hard work, turned their ideas into products on the shelves.
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Ryan Hintergardt JR Okie Smokie Gourmet BBQ Sauce A native of Ponca City, Okla., Ryan Hintergardt, ’99, ’01, holds deep ties to both Northwestern and Alva. “I graduated high school in 1995 and continued my education at Northwestern, where I played baseball from 1996 to 1999,” said Hintergardt. “I coached there until 2002, then took the job as the Sports Information Director from January 2003 until I left in September of 2011. “I received a bachelor’s degree of physical education with a minor in business. I then turned the business minor into a master’s degree in business administration two years later.” Hintergardt believes his Northwestern education helped him establish his own business from the ground up. With that education and the guidance of a friend, Hintergardt created his own recipe for barbeque sauce named JR Okie Smokie Gourmet BBQ Sauce. “After being cut back in hours working in the oil and gas industry, I found my own side business. Initially, I wanted slow growth. Working full time makes it hard to balance both jobs, so all I asked for was slow, steady growth for this business.” As with most business ventures, obstacles happen. “The distribution company we initially went through continued to raise their prices the longer we used them. We have since found a company that I work closely with to help in distributing our products at a more affordable rate.” Hintergardt says exposure of a product is crucial to startup businesses. “We wanted as many people to try our product as we could when we were first starting out. We think it’s good. We wanted it in the hands of as many consumers as possible, hoping they would think the same and then reorder. With our original barbeque sauce, we have one specifically for Northwestern called Ranger BBQ Sauce. It is distributed to businesses in Alva.”
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Today, JR Okie Smokie Gourmet BBQ Sauce can be found in multiple states and locations. Steadfast Connections After living in Alva for 16 years, Hintergardt still feels the impact of this small town in northwest Oklahoma. “I talk to or run into somebody with Northwestern or Alva connections what seems like every day. I still talk to my friends who I made while living there. Northwestern has made a tremendous impact on my life.” Family Support Support and understanding are critical for any small business, and Hintergardt credits his family for helping him make his business possible. “My family was 100 percent behind me to begin production of JR Okie Smokie Gourmet BBQ Sauce. While I was working in the oil and gas industry in Oklahoma City and was cut back in hours, the idea became a reality. “After mentioning it to my mom (JoAnn Hingtergardt, ’70 graduate), my wife Christie and immediate family, everyone got behind me and continued to support me. I can’t thank them enough.”
Paul Geisinger Flying G Jerky Growing up on a farm near Seiling, Okla., Paul Geisinger, ’03, worked with his family to raise wheat, alfalfa and high-quality beef. During his high school years, his family sold the farm and opened their own restaurant, Flying G Steakhouse, in Seiling. “I put myself through college at Northwestern by joining the Army National Guard,” said Geisinger. “I was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005. I graduated from Northwestern in December 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. Following my time there, I primarily worked in the oil and gas industry from late 2004 until September 2018.” Northwestern still holds a special place in Geisinger’s heart. “The people I met at Northwestern have definitely made an impact on me. They are some of my best consumers today. I hope to be able to sell my product in Alva soon, and reach a new generation of Rangers.” Focusing on improving his own diet gave Geisinger the idea and motivation to develop his own beef jerky recipe, later becoming Flying G Jerky. “Back in 2018, I was doing the Keto diet with low carbs and no sugar. I could not find any Ketofriendly beef jerky that was free of the ingredients I couldn’t eat. I started to work on my own recipe, trying several different things. Finally, I got it right where I wanted it. “Before I knew it, friends and family members were asking me for large bags of jerky for different events. I wanted to see how far this could go. My wife, Nicole, and I talked about it, took some money from savings and found a co-packer in Yukon, Okla.” With the help of the co-packer – a company that helps multiple clients package their products – Geisinger was able to produce multiple test batches while still working in the oil and gas industry. In his spare time, he would get his product out to the public and then note any feedback. Opportunities Continue “After being laid off last year, I felt it was a sign to focus on the jerky and distribute it across Oklahoma. I buckled down and concentrated on it, going into the smokehouse where it’s made and helping produce the jerky so I could get it out to other shows. As I gained experience, the head co-
packer decided he wanted me there full-time. He is now training me to take over his business one day as he is wanting to slow down and retire.” Today, Flying G Jerky can be found in more than 300 independently-owned convenience and grocery stores across multiple states. Quality Family Time The process of starting a business is no simple task, and family life is impacted as the business changes and grows. “The biggest thing that has affected my family involving my business would be the amount of time we spend together. When we were getting it off the ground, I spent many evenings after work doing all my research, time meeting with my copacker and hours working weekend shows. Now that we have moved to a different season of the business and I am actually working side-by-side with my co-packer, many of my evenings are still taken up with several different aspects of growing the business. “We have learned that certain things in our lives are going to have to be sacrificed. We have to prioritize and spend more quality time together rather than quantity.” –– Hintergardt and Geisinger know what it takes to turn an idea into a reality. Still holding deep-seated ties to Northwestern and the people with whom they made connections, these two proud Rangers show that creating one’s own opportunities produce rewarding results.
What do Geisinger’s daughters think of his jerky?
Sloan (7) - “It is AMAZING!” Brynn (9) - “I don’t just like it…..I LOVE IT! I could eat it every day.”
Geisinger with his daughters Sloan (left) and Brynn (right), and wife Nicole.
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Ranger Events 2019-2020 Ranger Wake Up R O U N D U P 2019-2020
2019 August 19, 2019 Each year, on the first day of school, the Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association hosts “Ranger Wake Up.� Donuts, apples, bottles of water, coffee and encouragement are offered to students on their way to morning classes.
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The speakers Keynote Speaker: Keith Ballard, Ed. D. (right) is a 1975 graduate. Ballard shared that his extensive career as an educator and administrator afforded him the opportunity to continously learn, while putting students first. Student Speaker: Ethan Sacket (below), fourth generation Ranger and junior business dministration major, also spoke at the event. His humor and personal experience made for an entertaining speech.
Photo captions: 1. Richard Ryerson and daughter, Julia Witherington. 2. Deb Corr (center) visits with Harvey and Barbara Reeg.
Donor Dinner 2019 October 1, 2019 The Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association hosted its annual Donor Dinner in the Student Center Ballroom. Donors were joined by President’s Leadership Class students, Northwestern Scholar Ambassadors and Northwestern senior staff as they celebrated Northwestern.
1. 2.
From left: Briley Yunker, Riley Beeler, Keith Kisling, Darrell Wessels, Grace Wessels and Marlene Kisling.
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Homecoming 2019 R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Paint The Town Red The Ranger community came together for Northwestern’s Homecoming celebration on Saturday, October 26. Runners and walkers started the day with the annual Ranger Run at 8 a.m. Alumni and friends gathered around the Alumni Tent on the Alva Downtown Square to reminisce before Thelma Crouch led the parade as grand marshal. Northwestern cheerleaders encourage runners at the Ranger Run.
The Ranger Lunch on the Square – boasting the mouth-watering smoked pork prepared by the legendary Rowdy Rangers – followed. Alumni band members met to rehearse for the football game, while the Lady Rangers volleyball team played against Henderson State. The Massed Band, composed of area high school bands, performed before the Rangers took the field to battle the Harding University Bisons. Ranger Spirit…you just can’t beat it.
Todd Benway,‘95, and Jason Bryant, ‘95, finishing the Ranger Run 5K.
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Rangers attend a packed Lunch on the Square. Former Northwestern employees and friends prepare to celebrate Homecoming. From left: Linda Tutwiler, Vada Parker and Carla White.
Raye Lyn Bird paints a young Ranger fan’s face at the Alumni Tent at Ranger Field.
Thelma Crouch,‘60, Parade Marshal, prepares to lead the parade.
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From left: Ramon Byndom, Dana Gandolfo Mitrovic and Steve Gale. Not pictured, M.L. Sharp.
Sports Hall of Fame 2020 R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Ja nua r y 1 8 , 2 0 2 0
M . L . (M e l) Shar p Basketball
Ram on Byndom Basketball
Dana Gandolfo Mitrovic Softball
S teve G al e Football
L E FT: John Alle n, Dir e c tor of Alumni Re la tions, p r e s e n ts Mel S ha r p with his honor a r y pla que a t Sha r p’s ho me in souther n Ca lif or nia . MI D D L E: B rad F ranz, A thletic Dir e c tor, r e c ogniz e s Br idge r Ande r son a s th e 2 0 2 0 S p o r t s H all of Fam e S cholarsh ip r e c ipie nt. R I G H T: Mitrovic and G ale sig n Spor ts Ha ll of Fa me poste r s.
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Thank-A-Thon 2019
Students play a game to pass the time in between writing thank you cards.
The Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association promotes a culture of gratitude and the Thank-AThon event is a part of this initiative.
Students on the Thank-A-Thon leadership team pose with Relationship Manager, Rachel Kraus (second from the right). From left: Juliette Chaloupek, Riley Beeler, Carys Delaplane, Kaylea Brown, Kraus and Ethan Sacket.
Thank-A-Thon is an annual event where students come together to write thank you cards and make phone calls to donors, thanking them for their generosity. In November, the Alva, Enid and Woodward campuses hosted Thank-A-Thons. The combined efforts of 316 students produced 1,880 thank you cards and 746 phone calls to donors.
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Class of 2009
Jodie Bradford R O U N D U P 2019-2020
PROUD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION MEMBER
“I’m a proud member because... I have the opportunity to further cultivate lifelong friends and mentors. “Northwestern is one big family. We are all connected, in some way or another. You go anywhere and somehow you are connected to somebody from Northwestern. “My membership has given me a chance to give back, discover what Northwestern needs and how I can be a resource for current students.”
Be like Jodie. Give back to Rangers. Lifetime membership fees go directly to student scholarships. Annual membership fees support Rangers In The Community (RITC). RITC brings together alumni, students, faculty, staff and community membersfor a day of service to selected communities.
Join today:
https://my.nwfoundation.com/alumni-membership?tab=1
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Open your smartphone camera, tap the screen to focus and click the pop up to open the website.
Updates to the Student Center
Students in front of the Student Center in 1967.
Before
Construction on the west side of the Student Center began in May 2020. The flowerbed, steps and glass facade are being replaced with a new look. A new wheel chair ramp provides ADA accessibility into the building.
September ’20
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Lil Rangers
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
Madelyn Louise Davis, born January 5, 2020, to Dakota and Erin (Hopkins), ’17, ’19.
Sofia Haltom, born January 2, 2020, to Seth and Claudia (Vazquez), ’12.
Elliot Frederick Pixler, born January 19, 2019. Grandchild of Jeff and Sherry Ward, ’86.
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Trinity Avon Eddy, born November 1, 2019, to Thomas,’06, and Tiffany (Smith), ’05.
Jeremiah Kent Fuller, born January 19, 2020, to Kyle and Brooke, ’10.
Ira Wayne Hill III, born January 20, 2020, to Ira Hill II, ’18, and Madison Hofen, ’19.
Kasen Don Misak, born June 21, 2019, to Trent, ’17, and Tiffany (George), ’12.
Tyler James Severn, born December 12, 2019, to Nathan and Corina (Gift), ’12.
Kobe Charles Kelley Stephens, born on February 20, 2020, to Joshua, ’13, and Ashley.
Maddux Burditt Stratton, born March 5, 2020, to Matt and Megan (Burditt), ’13.
Bonnie Jane Sutter, born April 1, 2020, to Matt and Naicee (Gugelmeyer), ’16.
Evangeline O’Hara Wilson, born September 10, 2019, to Evan, ’17, and Luci, ’15.
Gentry Yarger, age 4 daughter of Randy, ’ 96, and Michelle.
Bays Tate Thomas, born August 15, 2019, to Derrick, ’ 08 and Chesnei (Zehr), ’07, ’14.
Email us your birth announcement, and we will send you a lil’ Ranger tee-shirt. Take a photo of your child in their tee and send the photo to nwalumni@nwosu.edu. 27
In Remembrance ’49 Oleta A. Peters, 11/29/2018 ’50 Donice L. Case, 03/17/2015 Norman D. Vetter, 11/19/2015 ’51 Celestia E. (Humphreys) Williams, 10/04/2018 ’53 Lynn D. Puffinbarger, 07/31/2018 Marvin D. Weigand, 08/05/2019 ’54 Marvin J. Marsh, 06/20/2019 William E. Lowe, 02/23/2019
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
’56 Billie C. Rogers, 08/21/2018 ’58 J.C. Riekenberg, 06/16/2019 Lloyd E. George, 01/31/2019 ’59 John M. Bouquot, 08/23/2019 Roger B. Noble, 07/29/2019
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’69 Alan L. McDaniel, 06/23/2019 E. Waynell Wiebener, 03/03/2020 Leslie A. Kamas, 05/25/2019 ’70 Douglas Hininger, 01/25/2019 Gene VanFrank, 02/15/2020 Joyce E. Holland, 08/08/2019 Michael W. Mitchel, 07/01/2018 Ronal O. Stine, 08/09/2019 Samuel W. Tucker, 10/13/2015 ’71 Alan E. Corr, 07/29/2016 Anna Hulstine, 03/28/2016 Cynthia P. Selvy Nicholson, 02/20/2018 Gib Clark, 04/26/2017 Jerrel V. Woods, 12/07/2016 Kay Goldstein, 01/06/2018 ’72 B.H. McKinley, 04/07/2019 ’73 Nancy Eckhardt Leslie, 01/15/2018 ’74 Robert L. Martin, 08/30/2019
’60 Gary L. Wingard, 05/11/2015 Noma Wolfe, 02/21/2018
’76 Danny G. Lohmann, 03/28/2020 Mickey B. White, 10/06/2019
’61 Billy D. Wardrop, 01/09/2020 Harold R. “Dick” Wilkerson, 08/27/2014 Mary J. Cook Walcher, 03/16/2016 Rita M. Diel-Brown, 11/30/2019 Truman K. Crandall, 04/13/2013
’77 Charles W. Jones, 09/27/2018 ’78 Craig D. Andrews, 12/24/2019
’62 Suzanne E. Resler, 06/17/2019
’79 Jill L. Jacobs, 11/03/2018
’63 Phillip R. Kenny, 03/19/2017
’86 Craig M. Colson, 07/09/2018
’68 Glen R. Roberson, 08/25/2019 Joyce M. Dixon, 01/20/2019
’94 James D. Heald, 08/05/2019
Class Notes ’09 Allison A. Zimmerman, 02/14/2020 ’10 Amber M. Smith, 07/25/2019 -James Wadley, 10/28/2019 Former Professor
Byron Koehn,’79, 03/26/20
Larry Richey,’73, 06/18/20
Beloved Rowdy Rangers
Elmo Anderson, ’56 Anderson and his wife, Lavida, celebrated 65 years of marriage. The couple currently reside in Helena, Okla. Tony Crouch, ’86 Crouch was named Chief Financial Officer at Southwestern College in Winfield, Kans. Steve Valencia, ’88 Valencia began as the Vice President for Development at Rogers State University, Claremore, Okla., on September 30, 2019. He previously served as Associate Vice President for University Relations at Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Doug Van Meter, ’89 Van Meter was named a 2020 Path Finder by the Oklahoma Society of Certified Public Accountants. Only five Path Finders were selected. Path Finders are an elite group of Oklahoma CPAs who are successful, well respected and devoted to their communities. They are also deeply involved in mentoring new CPAs, welcoming them to the profession and showing them the way to be successful. Mike Fadenrecht, ’05 Fadenrecht joined Keller Leopold Insurance in Dodge City, Kans., to offer insurance services to area farmers and businesses. Jodie Bradford, ’09 Bradford was named the Alva Chamber of Commerce Director. She formerly served as the chamber executive assistant. Jake Phillips, ’10 Phillips became the head basketball coach for the Cushing Tigers in Cushing, Okla. Jason Priest, ’11 Priest was named Director of Safety and Security/ Campus Police Chief for Enid Public Schools in Enid, Okla.
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Marriages ’08 Jerrad Hada and ’14 Baylei (Zehr), July 27, 2019. Jerrad graduated with a degree in biology and Baylei graduated with a degree in English. ’14 Tyler Knight and Courtney (Bailey), June 8, 2019. Tyler graduated with a degree in health and sports science education. ’14 Hannah (Dirks) and Steven Begakis, March 7, 2020. Hannah graduated with a degree in history. ’16 Kaitlyn (O’Toole) and Phillip Incaviglia, October 19, 2019. Kaitlyn graduated with a degree in health and sports science education. ’17 Alex (Hayes) and Logan Porter, January 5, 2020. Alex graduated with a degree in chemistry. ’18 Tyler Bernhardt and ’19 Bailey (Cook), July 27, 2019. Tyler graduated with a degree in health and sports science education and Bailey graduated with a degree in English. ’19 Gunnar Lansden and ’18 Trista (Watson), May 30, 2020. Gunnar graduated with a degree in business administration and Trista graduated with a degree in early childhood education. ’19 Mary Elizabeth (Shaffer) and Zach Bromlow, May 16, 2020. Mary graduated with a degree in biology. ’19 Veronica (Nelson) and Brady Seidel, July 7, 2019. Veronica graduated with a degree in psychology.
R O U N D U P 2019-2020
’19 Tanner Bowman and Baylee (Sharp), June 18, 2019. Tanner graduated with a degree in natural science education. ’20 Macendrew (Brown) and Austin Eades, October 15, 2019. Macendrew graduated with a degree in psychology.
’17 Drew (Slovak) and Ethan Nelson, November 2, 2019. Drew graduated with a degree in health and sports science education.
’19 Aaron Pierce and ’19 Katelyn (Cutsinger), July 27, 2019. Aaron and Katelyn both graduated with degrees in vocal music education.
Want to be featured here? Submit your update to https://my.nwfoundation.com/whereareyounow
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Northwestern Foundation & Alumni Association 709 Oklahoma Blvd. Alva, OK 73717 580-327-8593 nwalumni@nwosu.edu
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