S2016 peru stater

Summer 2016 Vol. 61, No. 1

Plans Underway for College Theatre Renovation Story on page 10

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Greetings from Peru State Dan Hanson Peru State College President

Dear Friends, This spring, I was asked to speak on the subject of leadership to the Nebraska LEAD class. In the hopes of inspiring them, I began my speech by quoting Robert Kennedy: “. . . each time a (person) stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others . . . he (or she) sends forth a tiny ripple of hope and, crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can . . . change the world.” I hope that the quote and speech was meaningful to them, because I know it was meaningful to me.

The end of my speech focused on how the works of a few women and men created ripples felt more than a hundred years in the future. As a former coach and professor, I hope that I caused a few ripples in the lives of students. As the president of a college, I know that the college benefits tremendously from the work and beliefs of others. As we consider the upcoming sesquicentennial, it is clear that the ripples from 1867 can still be felt today.

One way Peru State College continues to benefit from “ripples” is in our effort to maintain and improve the campus. Thanks to the generous support of alumni and friends of the college, like you, we have done tremendous work restoring and remodeling several campus buildings including our most recent work on the Oak Bowl and the campus entrance. Also, thanks to excellent planning and policies by the State of Nebraska, we are better able to maintain and finance ongoing facility needs.

Peru State College is still working to improve the campus. You will be hearing from me, Todd Simpson and the Peru State Foundation about the Theatre and Event Center Project. The college is working to continue its role as a cultural center for southeast Nebraska and the closest corners of Iowa, Kansas and Missouri. We are also working to

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restore Delzell Residence Hall this fall and to rework the Peru Elementary School into a field house for the football team this summer. These projects are already benefiting from your generosity and I thank you.

With so much changing at Peru State College, I am glad to say the purpose and spirit of the college remains intact. The day-to-day ripples maintain the currents benefiting the state and region. The college continues to help students engage with faculty excelling in their fields. Like you did, our students are actively seeking to connect with professors and staff that are well regarded in their field, so that they, in turn, may connect with other industry professionals. In fact, Forbes is reporting that potential students are more concerned with networking opportunities than coursework while in college.

Students are seeking these professional relationships because they know those relationships lead to academic and career success.

For this reason, in Making the Most of College, Dr. Richard Light advises first-year students to get to know one faculty member well each semester. Gallup also reports that students with encouraging and engaged mentors are more likely to succeed professionally.

Peru State College has a legacy of faculty and staff being recognized in their prospective fields. This year’s recognition of the innovation and expertise of Peru State employees stretches from the arts to science to teaching and coaching in general. I have included here a short list of awards, appointments and other recognitions received by Peru State College faculty and staff since June of 2015.

Please join me in congratulating the faculty and staff of Peru State College for their continued engagement in the fields they teach and represent. Their efforts allow our students to learn and achieve more, better preparing them for effective careers. Connecting college and careers provides a return on investment that students will collect for years to come. The ripples started here are the true legacy of Peru State College.

Dr. Mike Barger, professor of biology, was named President-Elect for the Southwestern Association of Parasitologists and will serve as President in 2018. The Association works to advance the disciplines of parasitology; to promote parasitological research and teaching; to allow informal discussion of research

and teaching in parasitology; and to provide fellowship among workers in parasitology and allied fields.

Dr. Richard Clopton, professor of biology, received the Helminthological Society of Washington’s Anniversary Award. Clopton was recognized as the world’s leading authority on gregarines; for loyal and dedicated service to the Society; for his contributions to the journal Comparative Parasitology, including serving as editor from 2002-2006 and that he has written the most cited paper in the journal’s history. The Anniversary Award is the highest honor that can be bestowed by the Helminthological Society of Washington.

Ted Harshbarger, assistant athletic director and sports information director, is the state advisor for Nebraska FBLA-Phi Beta Lambda. Nebraska PBL can be found in over fifteen Nebraska two-year and fouryear colleges and universities.

Matt Hill, assistant professor, was named 2015 Young Conductor of the Year by the Nebraska Choral Directors Association.

Qualifications for the award include ten or fewer years of teaching experience; consistent American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) or Nebraska Choral Directors Association (NCDA) membership; high performance and literature standards; and participation in ACDA and NCDA activities.

Dr. Dan Holtz, professor, received the Addison E. Sheldon Memorial Award from the Nebraska State Historical Society. The award recognized Holtz for his outstanding contributions to the preservation and interpretation of Nebraska History including his teaching, public programs, scholarship, and service on the Nebraska State Historical Society Board of Trustees and the Nebraska 150 Foundation.

Kristi Nies, assistant professor and Peru State Times faculty advisor, was named President of the Nebraska Collegiate Media Association for the 2016-2017 academic year. Nies will work with Nebraska’s small colleges to nurture and facilitate media and journalism experiences for students.

Sheli Petersen, assistant professor, was awarded the bronze award for children’s book illustrations “The Scarf” and “The Nest” in the 2015 American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Nebraska “Show.” The juried exhibition was displayed at KANEKO in

Omaha and the Metropolitan Community College Gallery of Art and Design.

Dr. Kyle Ryan, assistant professor, has been recognized with both the 2015 Excellence in Community Based Teaching and Scholarship award from Nebraska Campus Connect and as an “E-Learning Innovator in Education” by the University of Nebraska Medical Center for his role in the creation of the online course, Principles of Community Engagement in Public Health: Service Learning, Community-based Participatory Research, Leadership, and Civic Engagement.

Lou Varley, assistant football coach, was one of three national finalists for NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year. The criteria for the award included on-the-field success; service to the community; participation in AFCA activities; participation in other professional organizations and over-all impact on student-athletes.

Cassandra Weitzenkamp, instructor, was named to the Nebraska Board of Public Accountancy Educational Advisory Committee. Weitzenkamp was named to the advisory committee in late November under the Public Accountancy Act. The appointment was made by Nebraska Board of Public Accountancy (NBPA) members who were in turn appointed by the Governor of Nebraska.

All the Best,

Dan Hanson, Ph.D. President

Impact Todd Simpson CFRE Chief Executive Officer, Peru State College Foundation

The Peru State Foundation works hard to make certain our friends and donors understand the impact of their gifts. Even so, the true measure of that impact may not always be clear.

Certainly, you understand how scholarships help students manage the financial challenges of higher education. But are you aware that sometimes scholarships can actually change the direction of a life? Not long ago a young woman wrote to thank the Foundation for the

scholarship she received. “I wouldn’t have completed my degree without the scholarship I received. I don’t know where I’d be today if Peru State hadn’t been there for me.”

You also understand how Foundation support helps fund educational programs. But did you know without Foundation support Peru State might not be able to bring nationally recognized speakers like Wes Moore or Arun Gandhi to campus to engage with students and broaden horizons? Further, without Foundation support the College might not be able to help send students to national competitions – like the recent Phi Beta Lambda National Leadership Conference in Atlanta where 12 Peru State students placed in the top 10 including one national champion!

There is no doubt we all understand

the importance of how Foundation funding for building projects provides facilities appropriate for a state institution of higher learning. But did you know that without Foundation leadership and funding, projects like the Oak Bowl renovation or the new Peru State College entrance would not have been possible?

The impact gifts to the Foundation have can be measured every day, not only in the quality of Peru State’s education (the College enjoys the highest possible education accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission), but also in the future outlook for the Campus of a Thousand Oaks.

This past year I worked with a number of donors who understand the importance of their gifts to our students and programs, and want to make an

even deeper impact for Peru State. Donors like the Jud Douglas family, who have continued their dedicated support to Peru State through their family bank, Farmers Bank of Cook, and ensured that the new campus circle drive entrance became a reality. Or the family of Rod Vandeberg, who, knowing Rod’s vision for student safety, provided significant funding to support the new student walkways from Casey’s to the Complex and on to the campus.

The Foundation hopes all our friends and donors will understand and appreciate the true impact your gift has on Peru State and our students. If, however, you would like to know first-hand, feel free to drop by the campus and visit with a student, or call the Foundation, to get a feel for the difference your gift makes.

Upcoming 2016 Alumni Events August 19: Freshmen Move-In Day Hospitality Tables Hosted by the National Alumni Association on Peru State College’s Campus.

September 3: Douglas Plaza and Vandeberg Walkway Dedication on Peru State College’s Campus.

September 22: Fort Collins Alumni and Friends Brewery Tour and Reception at Fort Collins Brewery in Colorado.

September 30 - October 1: Homecoming and special reunions for the classes of 1966 and 1986 on Peru State College’s Campus.

PSC Foundation Board of Directors Larry Green (‘71) Chairman - Miramar Beach, FL Jim Desbien (‘73) - Plainville, KS SaraBeth Donovan (‘85) Vice-Chair - Pierre, SD Joyce Douglas, Secretary - Lincoln, NE Mike Guilliatt (‘67) - Fremont, NE Cindy (Plantenga, ‘82) & Tim (‘84) Hoffman, Treasurers - Lincoln, NE Al Urwin (‘82) - La Vista, NE PSC National Alumni Association Board of Directors Paul (’67) and Arlene (Borcher, ’67) Fell, Co-Chairs Lincoln, NE Ed Ankrom (’91), - Beatrice, NE Dan (’76) and Cheryl Cotton - Peru, NE Elton (’88) and Connie (Sims, ’87) Edmond - Lincoln, NE Nick (’87) and Laurel (Smith, ’87) Harling - Falls City, NE Carlos Harrison (’51), - Shenandoah, IA

October 21 - 22: Athletic Hall of Fame Dinner and Induction Ceremony on Peru State College’s Campus.

October 22: Virtual Bobcat BLUE Game Viewing Day with Bobcat football on ESPN3 nationwide.

October 29: Peru State Football Game Viewing and Bowling in Omaha, Neb. November 15: Lincoln Alumni and Friends Reception in Lincoln, Neb. For additional information on each of these events, including times and ways to RSVP – go to foundation.peru.edu.

Chuck (’69) and Alice (Massoth, ’69) Mizerski Lincoln, NE Fritz (’74) and Char (Lutz, ’74) Stehlik - Omaha, NE Angelia Rohwer Steiner (’90) - Sabetha, KS Kim (’90) and Kris (Kubert, ’94) Vrtiska, - Falls City, NE College President: Dr. Dan Hanson Editor: R. Todd Simpson, Chief Executive Officer, PSC Foundation Managing Editor/Writer: Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, PSC Foundation Graphic Design: Chelsea Allgood (’08), Graphic Design Artist

Contributing Writers: Jason Hogue, Director of Marketing Ted Harshbarger (’77), Associate Athletic Director/ Sports Information Director Rebecca Jewell, Advancement Officer, PSC Foundation Rebecca Johnson (’04), Graphic Designer Photography: Dr. Bill Clemente, Professor of English Promise DeBilzan, Office Manager, PSC Foundation Ted Harshbarger, Associate Athletic Director/Sports Information Director Rebecca Johnson (‘04), Graphic Designer

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The year in photos 1. Alumni and friends of Peru State College gathered during Commencement for the dedication of the Park Avenue and Campus Entrance Project made possible by generous donors. The Foundation Board of Directors took a leadership role in this project and current and former directors are pictured from L to R: President Dan Hanson, Elaine Hanson, SaraBeth Donovan (’85), Chuck Niemeyer (’65, ’70), Mike Guilliatt (’67), Larry Green (’71), Tim Hoffman (’84), Al Urwin (’82) and Joyce Douglas.

2. Peru State College and its President, Dr. Dan Hanson, under the authority of the Nebraska State College System granted degrees to 426 graduates on Saturday, May 7. More than 2500 people attended the ceremony in the Al Wheeler Activities Center.

Pictured L to R: Dan Hanson, President, and Kharisa T. Salberg (‘16).

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3. President, Dr. Dan Hanson, addressed the graduating class and said, “A degree is only worthwhile if it is used to benefit others; it does not matter if it only benefits you.

Choose to use your degree to build a better community, a better country and a better world. Serve often and serve well.”

4. The Annual Bobcat Golf Classic was held in May 2016 to benefit Peru State athletics.

Pictured L to R: Jim Wehenkel, Rick Janssen, Mike Gerdes (’88) & Dave Allen.

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5. Wes Moore, a youth advocate, Army combat veteran, author, social entrepreneur and host of Beyond Belief on the Oprah Winfrey Network, spoke on Peru State College’s campus in March to alumni, faculty, staff, students and regional community members.

6. Clarence “Chick” Stessman (’61) and Becca Jewell, Advancement Officer, enjoy the men’s and women’s basketball games during the NAA Annual Chili Feed.

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7. Bob the Bobcat at the NAIA tournament in March where Peru State College played against Caroll College of Montana. This was PSC’s 14th overall appearance in the NAIA tournament.

8. Peru State College bid a fond farewell to retiring faculty and staff during the recent Spring Employee Recognition Luncheon.

Pictured are 2016 retirees in attendance for the lunch from L to R: John Fettig, Dan Holtz, Kelly Asmussen, Linda Moody, Clifford McMann, Nancy Hawley and Gayle Martin.

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9. More than 400 alumni and friends gathered for the annual National Alumni Association Chili Feed held in conjunction with Peru State College men’s and women’s basketball games. Pictured from L to R: Arlene (Borcher) Fell (’67), Paul Fell (’67), Dennis Curtis, (’70), Tim (Sarge) Gilligan (’67), Louis Fritz (’66), Judy Fritz.

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10.. Dan Hanson, President, welcomes visitors to campus during the Nebraska State Court of Appeals, which was in session April 12 on Peru State College’s campus.

The Court of Appeals’ primary courtroom is in the State Capitol in Lincoln, but for the convenience of citizens it travels to other Nebraska cities to hear appeals.

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11. The Nebraska Court of Appeals is the state’s intermediate appellate court. There are six judges who sit in panels or divisions of three judges each. The Court of Appeals seeks to provide Nebraska with clear, impartial and timely resolution of appealed orders and judgments. Peru State invited area high schools to bring students to campus to observe court proceedings.

12. More than 80 alumni and friends gathered in Omaha at Anthony’s Steakhouse for a night of fun, fellowship and fundraising.

An auction was held following dinner to raise funds for student scholarships and support.

Pictured from L to R: Otto Rath (’51) and Carlos Harrison (’51).

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Peru State College enrollment at historic high, Cammack joins Admissions Peru State College released its final spring 2016 head count and the results are a historic high enrollment for the college. A total count of all graduate and undergraduate students brings enrollment up 4.15% from last year to 2,682. The previous high was 2,545 in the spring of 2015.

Dr. Michaela Willis, former vice president for enrollment management and student affairs, said, “The College has enjoyed steady growth during the last few years. We have had particularly strong growth in our graduate programs.”

Dr. Dan Hanson said, “I want to thank everyone involved in recruit-

ing, enrolling and serving our students.

The success of the College depends on the work of faculty, staff and students.”

As Peru State College continues to grow, a new Director of Admissions was named to Peru State College, Cindy Cammack. Cammack is a twenty-nine year veteran of college recruitment Dr. Dan Hanson said, “Cindy brings incredible experience and a wealth of knowledge to our growing college.”

“Students have a lot of choices to make about college and I think Cindy will do a great job helping students know that Peru State is the right college for them. She’s also going to help more parents realize Peru State is an incredi-

ble value for the price.”

Hanson adds, “I am very happy to welcome Cindy to Peru State.”

Cammack has spent the majority of her career recruiting for the University of Nebraska – Lincoln where she served as associate director of admissions for fourteen years. Cammack has also held positions focusing on the exclusive recruitment of freshmen, transfer students, international students, agricultural sciences and natural resources students and engineering students.

Cammack said, “Recruiting students is my passion. I enjoy developing relationships with students as well as high school and college counselors.”

Cindy Cammack

Students engage in learning through study abroad

about educational systems in another country. During the trip students participated in projects that helped a local school – they helped teach English, played games with the local school children, painted buildings, and talked with local teachers about education.

“The Center for Engaged Learning offers student scholarships to help offset the costs of studying abroad and ensure more students can participate in these valuable programs,” said Taylor-Costello.

“These scholarships are awarded based on an application process that is reviewed by an advisory board of faculty, staff and students.”

our areas of study.”

“I believe that the best way to learn something, is to experience it; you can learn so much more about a country or culture by actually going there and witnessing it,” said Alyssa Welna, junior majoring in elementary education.

“From a criminal justice and history perspective – we are seeing history in action,” said Paige Meyer, senior in psychology and criminal justice. Meyer presented on the Anne Frank house during the class, which was one of the stops on the trip to Europe.

Engaged learning at Peru State College means many things – community based serving learning, global learning, internships and more.

“Our students develop and apply their leadership, critical thinking, project management and communication skills while engaging in learning opportunities – like study abroad trips,” said Julie Taylor-Costello, Director for the Center for Engaged Learning at Peru State College.

This year students traveled to Costa Rica and Europe to learn about different communities, governments, cultures and the challenges countries face in the changing global landscape.

The European trip specifically focused on the study of the social sciences (psychology, sociology, art, and criminal justice) and included faculty from criminal justice, psychology, and art. Students from all majors traveled to London, Paris and Amsterdam.

The service learning trip to Costa Rica offered students the opportunity to learn

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Thoughts from study abroad students “I couldn’t miss the opportunity to see different cultures and study psychology where it began,” said Alaina Henzel, senior psychology major planning to work in social work and child counseling.

“This is an incredibly important educational opportunity for me,” said Ethan Fricke, junior double majoring in social science and psychology. “As part of the study abroad trip we take a course that provides an in-depth look at each stop we’ll be making and how it ties back to

“It’s important that alumni and others know we have these opportunities at Peru State College,” said Evan Davies, junior in criminal justice and psychology. “Students are taking advantage of these opportunities to grow.”

“By traveling to new places and experiencing things first hand, I have truly begun to develop an appreciation for learning. I’ve been able to understand what methods of learning work for me, and have really started to enjoy the learning process,” said Hannah Chubbuck, junior at Peru State College.

Celebrating 150 years of shaping Nebraska’s future Peru State College has a birthday milestone approaching – 150 years! Peru State’s founding charter was signed on June 20, 1867, the same year the State of Nebraska became the 37th state.

“After two years of planning, the founders of this college and the fledgling state of Nebraska named Peru, Nebraska, the home of the state’s first college. In 1867 this college was created as a normal school focusing on the training of teachers,” said Dan Hanson, President. “The Nebraska State Normal School is now our home, Peru State College, and to better serve the region it has combined the School of Education with a School of Professional Studies and a School of Arts and Sciences as well as offering graduate degrees.”

To celebrate this important anniversary, the College plans to host a year of special events from May 2017 through May 2018. Events include a Charter Day Celebration on June 20, 2017; monthly workshops and projects hosted by faculty, staff and students, and an All-College Reunion for alumni and friends. The College has also commissioned a book detailing the history of Peru State including memories from alumni, faculty and staff.

The All-College Reunion is a unique celebration offering a full weekend of special activities for alumni and friends, June 16-18, 2017. Attendees will have the opportunity to stay on campus in the residence halls, participate in reunion gatherings and special activities.

“The All-College Sesquicentennial Reunion will be a fun time for classmates to gather together, share Peru State memories and catch up with each other,” said Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund. “There have been incredible changes to the campus and this is a wonderful time to revisit Peru State College.”

To learn more about the College’s Sesquicentennial plans and share your Peru State memories, go to www.peru.edu/150.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

to help plan and promote the upcoming All-College Reunion! · Co-signing a letter mailing to alumni by graduation decades · Emailing and/or calling classmates to encourage them to attend the weekend · Serving on the All-College Reunion advisory committee through emails and conference calls beginning in August 2016 · Helping during the reunion with registration, greeting and other identified volunteer roles Email or call Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, at dsolie@peru.edu or (402) 872-2304 to volunteer or ask for additional information.

Kunkel named Dean of the School of Education Dr. Ellie Kunkel was named Dean of the School of Education at Peru State College. Kunkel began working at Peru State College in 2003.

Dr. Dan Hanson, president of Peru State College said, “Dr. Kunkel has demonstrated excellence in the classroom and as Interim Dean. She has a tradition of focusing on student success and a vision for building an even stronger education program. This past year, as Interim Dean, she led the School’s exceptional accreditation review by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.”

We are very pleased to appoint Dr. Kunkel as Dean of the School of Education at Peru State College.”

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve Peru State College and the School of Education in this capacity. The quality of teacher preparation at PSC is excellent. I am privileged to have the opportunity to work alongside faculty and staff to prepare our students for successful careers serving others,” said Kunkel.

Most recently, Dr. Kunkel served as the Interim Dean of the School of Ed-

Dr. Ellie Kunkel

ucation after returning from a hiatus where she was the Interim Coordinator of Teacher Education at Fortune School of Education in Sacramento, California.

Kunkel’s career includes over 35 years in education including fifteen years teaching physical education in Missouri high schools and more than ten years of teaching at the collegiate level. Kunkel has also worked in college administration with service to the University of Central Missouri as the Director of NCAA Compliance and as Interim Director of Athletics at Peru State College.

Peru State College receives Legacy of Nebraska painting as part of Sesquicentennial celebration Artist Todd Williams delivered his own work to the Peru State College campus on Friday, March 18. The painting was his Legacy of Nebraska piece for Nemaha County and Nebraska’s 150th anniversary.

Williams’ impressionistic painting is based on a photo of the Peru State campus quad in 1924. The painting features a Model T Ford, students and iconic campus buildings including the current library with its original roofline. The

painting is done in oil and the tabernacle frame is covered in 24k gold gilt.

The painting is now on display inside the Library. It can be found to the north of the main desk after entering the west doors on the main level.

Williams is a native of Central City, Nebraska and will paint a picture of every county in Nebraska for the 150th Anniversary of Nebraska’s Statehood. This project is known as the Legacy of Nebraska series.

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Albury returns to Peru State as baseball coach After a year of teaching in Florida, former Peru State head baseball coach Wayne Albury will return to the helm of the Bobcat program. Peru State athletic director Steve Schneider recently announced Albury’s return to the head coaching position.

Schneider commented, “We are very pleased to have Coach Albury returning to Peru State College. He is a man of integrity, a proven builder of character and quality teams. This was demonstrated at Peru State during his first tenure here. We welcome him back and look forward to him leading the team to success in a short period of time.”

Albury, who had been at the helm for the previous five seasons, returns as the winningest head coach in Bobcat history. In his first five years, Albury’s teams went 155-92-1 for a 625 percentage.

Albury is only the third coach in Peru State baseball history to have a winning percentage.

Two of Albury’s teams qualified for the NAIA’s Baseball National Championship Opening Rounds – the only two teams to do so in Peru State history. The 2012 team finished the season 37-18 and qualified by winning the Heart of America Athletic Conference Tournament. That team went 2-2 in

Brewer named Head WBB Coach for Peru State Bobcats

Coach Wayne Albury

the opening round games in Paducah, Ky. The 2015 squad was 39-16 overall and had won both the regular season and conference tournament titles. The ‘Cats finished 1-2 in the national opening round in Grand Rapids, Mich. Both squads were among those receiving votes in the final coaches’ polls.

Albury will enter his 23rd season of collegiate coaching with a 666-452-1 mark with an overall percentage of .595.

He and his family are excited to return to Peru State. Albury noted, “I want to thank the college administration, including AD Schneider, for allowing me the opportunity to return to Peru State.

The College provides excellent support for the athletic programs and I plan to utilize that support again while working with some fine student-athletes.”

Albury began working at Peru State on June 1.

Chuck Brewer joined the Peru State athletic department staff as the permanent women’s basketball coach for the Bobcats. Brewer served this past season as the interim coach for the ‘Cats.

Schneider said, “Coach Brewer has a proven record of successful recruitment and leadership experience. In a coaching career, one aspires to get to a national tournament. Coach Brewer previously led his prior team, the College of St. Mary (CSM) Flames, to the nationals his last four years there.”

Continuing, Schneider noted, “We have high expectations that he will do the same here at Peru State. His teams have excelled in the classroom as well and this past season his current team improved their grade point average significantly.” Concluding, Schneider added, “We offer Coach Brewer administrative support and look forward to watching the team improve over the next few years.”

Brewer served this past year as the interim coach for Peru State taking over the program late in the summer.

The Bobcats finished 6-25 on the year.

Prior to coming to Peru State, Brewer served as the head basketball coach at

Logan Paben named CoSIDA Academic All-American® of the year Senior defensive back Logan Paben highlighted the 2015 CoSIDA Academic All-American® College Division Football Team by being recognized as the CoSIDA Academic All-American® of the Year. The selection is made by the College Sports Information Directors of America.

The CoSIDA Academic All-America® College Division football team honors student-athletes from NAIA, Canadian and two-year institutions.

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This was Paben’s second CoSIDA Academic All-America® College Division nod in a row. In 2016, the Columbus, Nebraska, native was selected as the NAIA’s A.O. Duer Scholarship Award winner recognizing academics, character and citizenship by junior student-athletes in any sport. Paben participated in the TeamMates Mentor program for two years where he served as a role model and made a positive difference in the lives of children.

In addition, Paben was one of 135 semifinalists for the 2015 William V. Campbell Trophy, which recognizes an individual as the absolute best football scholar-athlete in the nation. Paben was also nominated for the 2015 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®, which recognizes college football players from across the country who exemplify superior commitment to community service and volunteerism.

Paben has been a second team All-

Coach Chuck Brewer

College of Saint Mary for the previous seven seasons. The Flames made four straight NAIA Division II National Tournament appearances, including a Sweet 16 appearance in 2014.

Coach Brewer is ready to begin his now permanent assignment. He commented, “I am both humbled and enthusiastic about being named as the head women’s basketball coach at Peru State College. I would like to thank our administration, athletic staff, and the Peru community for their confidence and support on my appointment.” In conclusion, Brewer noted, “Our coaching staff will continue to work hard to bring the women’s program to become a power at the national level.”

Heart of America Athletic Conference selection and twice earned honorable mention. In his Peru State career, Paben has amassed 186 tackles, 112 solo tackles and 12 interceptions. Paben has also been twice named a Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete.

Peru State athletic director and head football coach Steve Schneider noted, “Logan is the epitome of a true student-athlete. He takes his work, whether on the football field, in the classroom, or as a servant leader, very seriously.”

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Liewer Earned AVCA/ NAIA All-America Honorable Mention

Shannon Liewer

The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) announced its women’s volleyball All-America teams for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), selected by the NAIA Volleyball All-America Selection Committee.

Among those receiving honorable mention recognition was Peru State senior libero Shannon Liewer of Imperial.

It is believed Liewer is the first Bobcat volleyball player since Jill (Parker) Scanlon of Auburn was named All-American Second Team in 1995.

Liewer was named to the AVCA/ NAIA Midwest Team which made her eligible for consideration for All-America status. Liewer was also named as the Co-Defender of the Year for the Heart of America Athletic Conference while earning First Team recognition in the Heart. She earned the Heart’s Defender of the Week on three occasions this season.

At the end of the entire season, Liewer ranked 12th in the NAIA with 752 total digs and 15th in digs per game at 5.570. Her 752 digs on the season places her third on the Bobcat all-time dig list behind Jaisa (Kappas) Poppleton who had 884 digs in 1997 and 789 in 1996.

Liewer was also among six individuals named to the CoSIDA All-America® First Team on Monday. The Academic All-America program honors academic and athletic excellence. Liewer transferred to Peru State after playing two years at North Platte Community College.

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PSC Pep Band – Making Music that Moves As you think about crisp fall air, football and tailgating – no memory would be complete without the sounds of the Peru State College Color Song performed by the PSC Pep Band.

The Pep Band is an important part of the College band – the second oldest existing band in Nebraska established in 1889. Membership is open to any student interested in music and committed to practice with the group twice a week. The College band is one of two instrumental ensembles on campus and is an integral part of the campus life for students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends.

“By having a College band that wears many hats – pep band, marching and concert band - the College gains a culture enhanced by music that entertains, expresses and supports the community,” said Pat Fortney, Dean, School of Arts and Sciences and Director, College Band.

“While our students gain experiences with a broad repertoire of music, they also gain camaraderie, friendship and fun when they are part of Pep Band.”

The Pep Band plays 13-15 athletic events per year and this year traveled to Kansas City to play during the men’s basketball team’s appearance in the NAIA tournament.

Fortney has been working with pep bands since 1976 and sees their role as integral for any athletic event. Said Fortney, “I love sports; I love the spectacle of sport and music is an important part. Music helps with timing, inspiration and encouraging the crowd.”

Many students over the years have participated in the College band and their passion doesn’t dim after graduation. Many band alumni stay connected through Facebook and try to meet during Homecoming. Future engagement plans for band alumni include an alumni pep band that performs during the Homecoming half time.

“My favorite part of pep band is cheering on your team and entertaining the crowd that’s watching,” said Zayra Flores, recent PSC graduate in music marketing and member of pep band since 2009. The College band will continue to cheer on the Bobcats, engage fans and share their music for years to come.

Opportunities to support the College band:

Above: NAIA Tournament: More than 100 alumni and fans gathered in Kansas City for a pre-game event prior to the men’s basketball game in the NAIA tournament.

Above: For the first time since 19961997, the Peru State men’s basketball team participated in the NAIA basketball championship tournament against Carroll College.

• Off-campus travel • Shirts and band uniforms • Instruments • Band scholarships To learn more, contact the PSC Foundation at pscfoundation@peru.edu or (402) 872-2304

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Plans Underway for

C ollege T heat re Renovat ion

Above: Auditorium picture from 1953 prior to the last theatre renovation completed in 1968.

The stage has been set for a major renovation of the College Theatre.

During the 2016 session, the Nebraska Legislature approved a bonding extension bill that will give Peru State access to most of the funding needed to fully renovate the College Theatre. All told, bonding and other state funding will provide $7 million for the renovation project.

“While this will not provide all of the funding necessary for the renovation, I am very appreciative of and excited about the state’s commitment to this project,” said President Dan Hanson.

Peru State’s College Theatre was built in the early 1920s and opened for the 1923-1924 school year.

The 1924 yearbook, The Peruvian, boasted of the new theatre’s many fine qualities. “The interior decorations are in the nature of slabs of Grecian art taken from the Parthenon. No higher type of sculpture has ever been produced than that from which these casts were taken. The scenery and stage hangings are all in place. The stage curtains are especially admired for their richness and beauty. A lantern slide and motion picture machine complete the equip-

10 The Stater

receive at Peru State,” said President Hanson.

Staging theatrical and musical productions in the theatre requires an elaborate set of workarounds.

Pat Fortney, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and Director of Bands, said, “We perform in our home theatre almost as if we are on tour because of the significantly reduced functionality of the space and its support systems. We run a big electrical cord down the main aisle because the electrical grid does not support productions.”

Stage rigging is unsafe and unusable.

The dressing rooms are far too small for a cast of any size and are not wheelchair accessible.

The layout of the theatre also presents challenges to performers needing access between the stage, sound booth, and dressing rooms during productions. Crew members are required to be on their cell phones throughout productions to allow for communication between the director, stage manager and assistant stage manager. Students needing to move between the stage and house during productions must go outside and around to the front entrance.

Amanda Burk, a senior from Oswego, Illinois, served as President of the Peru Theatre Company for the 20152016 academic year and is also the first chair flute in the college band. She

mentions the dangerous fly system and very limited space for dressing rooms, scene shop, costume shop and storage as key challenges. “We just make do,” said Burk, adding, “That is just what you do when you love theatre.”

While Burk will be gone from Peru State before the renovations are complete she said, “I’m excited that other students will have a much easier time to make art in the future.” Burk said she will have good stories of hardship to tell future students. “I’ll be able to come back and tell students, ‘In my day it was much more difficult. You all have it so easy.’”

In spite of the many drawbacks to the building itself, Burk speaks very highly of her theatre experience at Peru State. “Being involved in theatre has taught me about art, teamwork, the human condition and human emotions. A lot of students at Peru State don’t go out of their way to experience theatre, so it is great to have it available here in southeast Nebraska.”

The project is still in the planning phases, but construction could begin in the next year. Significant donations will be needed to complete the project.

However, in this early phase, it is not clear how much money will be needed to supplement state funding and create a facility that can serve the campus and region long into the future.

ment which adapt this building to the fullest use.”

The Peruvian concludes, “It is one of the best college buildings of its kind in the state.”

In 1968, the building was renovated, but has remained largely untouched and unimproved for decades. It is the only academic building on campus that has not had significant renovations since 2002, and it is one building that every student on campus uses during their time at Peru State.

The College Theatre is a hub of campus and community life, hosting speakers, large classes, theatrical and musical performances, new and prospective stu- Below: Holocaust survivor, Elane Norych Geller, addressed a packed auditorium as part of dent orientations, and a wide variety of the celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in 2010. community events, like dance recitals and conference presentations.

In its current state, the College Theatre has serious problems and deficiencies. For example, the restrooms are inadequate for a public facility, and much of the seating is broken and in poor repair.

“To have a high profile building in such poor condition creates a negative image of the college and does not reflect the excellent education students

Dr. Ediger’s Passion for Music Still Felt at Peru State College

Above: Students and guests mingle outside the auditorium in 1953.

Below: 1945 high school band gathers in the auditorium - one of the many communityfriendly events held in the theatre throughout the years.

Dr. Thomas Ediger impacted students, fellow faculty and staff, and Peru State College through his teaching, his love of music and the importance he placed on students.

“He positively influenced the lives of thousands of students throughout his tenure at the college,” said Dan Hanson, President. “He was an accomplished musician whose talent, kindness and commitment to the institution and students were inspiring.”

Ediger’s presence continues to be felt on Peru State College’s campus even after his passing in 2014 with a gift designated through his estate to the Peru State College Foundation for the Choral Fund. The Choral Fund supports faculty and students teaching and studying music, including vocalists participating in the choral ensembles like concert choir and show choir.

“Estate gifts like Dr. Ediger’s make a significant impact on students, faculty and Peru State College,” said Todd Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of the Peru State College Foun-

dation. “These gifts connect future generations with Dr. Ediger’s work and his love of music.”

Estate gifts enable Peru State alumni and friends to give back to the College through their estate plans, to ensure that future students have the same educational opportunities that the College made available to them.

The 1867 Society was created specifically for alumni and friends planning to remember Peru State College in their estate. Society members ensure the College continues to provide students with a quality education and way to a better life.

In Ediger’s own words from the 2013 Peru State Times, “I hope that my passion, enthusiasm and expertise will help to motivate and possibly even inspire my students to be truly excellent musicians.”

Ediger’s gift ensures his passion is felt throughout the Peru State College community for years to come. To learn more about gift and estate planning go to foundation.peru.edu.

Save the Date for the Do you have a theatre ghost story to tell?

Dr. Chet Harper, retired speech and theatre faculty member, never saw for himself the famous ghost that is said to haunt the College Theatre. He said that others reported being on stage and seeing, up in the balcony, a seat being pulled down as if someone was taking a seat to watch the activity on stage.

For reasons unknown, today’s students have given the ghost the name “Steve.”

Steve gets credit for slamming the costume shop door and making ghostly appearances of movement in the dressing rooms. Student Amanda Burk said, “Sometimes I will be on stage and think I see someone passing in front of the costume shop door up in the balcony, but when I look again, no one is there.”

Do you have a good theatre ghost story to tell? Please share your ghost stories and other memories of the College Theatre at peru.edu/150 and click on the “share your stories” link.

All-College Sesquicentennial Reunion

June 16-18, 2017 The Stater 11

s w e N s Campu

Michaela Willis Moves to South Dakota State University

Michaela Willis, vice president for enrollment management and student affairs at Peru State College, began a new position as vice president of student affairs for South Dakota State University this July.

Willis served as vice president since 2009, but began working at PSC as an admissions counselor 16 years ago.

“I really fell in love with the work I was doing with students,” Willis said in an interview in late April. “I feel fortunate that I found my passion in higher education.”

Willis’ last day on the PSC campus Above: Michaela Willis and her family at the Annual Peru State College Chili Feed. was June 30.

Above: The Peru State Women’s Basketball team picked up trash during the city-wide clean-up day in Peru.

Participate in 2016 Nebraska Passport Program and Stop at Peru State College The Nebraska Tourism Commission announced that the Peru State College Library is one of 80 featured attractions in the 2016 Nebraska Passport program. The Peru State College Library sits on a hill above the Missouri River and serves as one stop on the “Rise Above” tour.

The beautiful building currently hosting the library was dedicated in 1905 and has served a number of functions including a gymnasium and theatre. It has even housed an indoor swimming pool! The building was transformed into a library in 2002 and the gym-to-library transformation was featured in an article of American Libraries magazine.

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The “Rise Above” tour features stops at Chimney Rock; Gavin’s Point Dam Visitor’s Center in Crofton; Lake McConaughy Visitor Center in Ogallala; Mansion on the Hill in Ogallala; Massacre Canyon in Trenton; Mignery Sculpture Garden in Bartlett; Peru State College Library in Peru; and Ponca State Park in Ponca. The Nebraska Passport program features seven more tours with themes devoted to topics as varied as state parks, Nebraska film locations, food and shopping.

Start the Passport program today and make your first stop Peru State College. More information can be found at http://nebraskapassport.com/2016-nebraska-passport-stops-announced/.

Above: More than 130 Peru State College students, faculty and staff helped remove 95 truckloads of trash from the city of Peru. Students also participated in the Brownville Arboretum Clean-up that afternoon. Coach Lou Varley and President Dan Hanson kicked off the morning by welcoming volunteers.

Dr. Kelly Asmussen receives 2016 Teaching Excellence Award “I would start my entire career over again and repeat the process;...”

- Dr. Kelly Asmussen

Peru State College Criminal Justice Professor, Dr. Kelly Asmussen, was named the institutions 2016 Teaching Excellence Award winner. Asmussen was honored during the college’s commencement on May 7 on the historic Campus of a Thousand Oaks.

President Dan Hanson said, “Dr. Asmussen has served an incredible role in Peru State College’s academic development during his twenty-two years of service. His efforts to found the Criminal Justice major and its associated programs have culminated in hundreds of graduates including more than thirty graduates this spring.

“Dr. Asmussen’s teaching excellence will leave a lasting legacy at Peru State College and in the law enforcement and corrections offices of this state and region.”

Asmussen said, “I am particularly honored to receive the Teaching Excellence Award as a culmination of my teaching career at Peru State College. For the past twenty-plus years, I have been richly rewarded watching the careers of many students at all levels of the Criminal Justice System excel through research, community service, and unique educational engagement opportunities.

“I would start my entire career over again and repeat the process; I loved the challenges and the successes I was able to achieve.”

Asmussen joined the Peru State faculty in 1994 and teaches criminal justice in the Peru State College School of Professional Studies.

Shortly after joining the faculty, Asmussen was instrumental in establishing Peru State’s criminal justice program. He also arranged the Provisional Alcohol Drug Addiction Counseling (PLADC) program allowing criminal justice and psychology majors to attain provisional certification to treat persons with alcohol and other addictions.

Asmussen developed, coordinated and supervised six international study tours to Australia, Costa Rica, and England for over 150 students from Peru State and other colleges.

Students traveled and lived in these countries while comparing the host country’s criminal justice system to the U.S. system.

Dr. Asmussen also established the Inside-Out course, “Searching for Justice.” The course engages 15 “outside” college students and 15 “inside” persons in a classroom at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, a maximum-security prison. The course examines the intersection of class, race, gender, crime and status relating to the search for social justice. Students report the experience was transformative and “the class has been their best educational experience in college.”

Plans to demolish Peru State’s Neal Hall The Nebraska State College Board of Trustees voted to follow the advice of Peru State College and architects to demolish J.F. Neal Hall.

Dr. Dan Hanson, president of Peru State College, said, “We consulted with architects about how to move forward with renovating Neal Hall. Their response included a strong recommendation to demolish based on the shape of the building and the cost of renovation.”

Named for Dr. J.F. Neal, Neal Hall was built in 1967 as part of the Centennial Complex Residence Hall. Neal was a member of the original committee to start a college in Peru. Ernest Longfellow, author of The Normal on the Hill, writes that when Neal was asked to contribute financially he responded, “he would give as much as any man.”

Neal Hall was originally used as a cafeteria, but has seen a number of uses in its almost fifty years of existence.

Meet Leonard Greathouse He was a member of the 1938-39 championship basketball team, football captain and in 1940 received the Bert Swenson award for outstanding performance in and out of the classroom. Greathouse won eleven letters in four years, all-conference and all-state honors; all this and yet “there’s not a molecule of self-satisfaction in his entire six-foot-one frame.”

Peru State will celebrate 150 years of shaping Nebraska’s future in 2017 and we need your help keep the story and history of Nebraska’s first college alive.

Visit www.peru.edu/150 to share your memories.

Nebraska’s First College • Established in 1867 • Peru, Nebraska • 1-800-742-4412 Member Institution of the Nebraska State College System Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1915 • Accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) • A member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

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Alumni Spotlights

1

Paider named Outstanding New Elementary Principal of the Year Peru State College congratulates 2005 graduate Sara (Holcomb) Paider on being named the 2016 Outstanding New Elementary Principal of the Year by the Nebraska State Association of School Administrators (NSASA).

Paider studied elementary and early childhood education at Peru State College and student taught at Loup City.

Her first teaching position was at Loup City and she is currently the principal of St. Paul Elementary in St. Paul, Nebraska.

The Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) is an umbrella organization of 2,100 current and former school administrators (NSASA). The Outstanding New Elementary Principal of the Year award cites “demonstrated outstanding leadership in their school, their region and at the state lev-

Sara (Holcomb) Paider (‘05)

el” and “demonstrated . . . enthusiasm for the principalship by support from students, parents, teachers, and peers.”

Shaffer named Outstanding Student Teacher Nathan Shaffer graduated in May and his career in education is already award winning. The Nebraska State Council for the Social Studies has chosen Peru State’s Nathan Shaffer as one of only two Nebraska Outstanding Student Teachers for 2015-2016.

Shaffer did his student teaching at Johnson County Central. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History Education.

The Nebraska State Council for the Social Studies is affiliated with the National Council for the Social Studies.

The National Council has grown to be the largest association in the country

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M M D M

Broady named State History Teacher of the Year Lori (Speckmann) Broady, (‘90, ‘03), was named State History Teacher of the Year: Nebraska Department of Education is an award sponsored by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. The award comes with a $1000 honorarium and the Johnson-Brock Public Schools Library will receive an archive of history books and educational materials.

“I work at a building with educators who have a high level of expectation for their students (and themselves). This award is not so much about me but about the quality of education at Johnson-Brock,” said Broady.

Broady studied Social Science Secondary Education for her bachelor’s degree and received her Master’s in Education. Both degrees were earned at Peru State College.

She has taught at Johnson-Brock since 1995.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History is a nonprofit or-

Lori (Speckmann) Broady (‘90, ‘03)

ganization devoted to the improvement of history education. The Institute has developed an array of programs for schools, teachers, and students that now operate in all fifty states, including a website that features more than 60,000 unique historical documents in the Gilder Lehrman Collection.

Each year the Institute offers support and resources to tens of thousands of teachers, and through them enhances the education of more than a million students. The Institute’s programs have been recognized by awards from the White House, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Organization of American Historians.

It’s time to celebrate!

Nathan Shaffer (‘16)

devoted solely to social studies education. NCSS serves as an umbrella organization for elementary, secondary, and college teachers of history, civics, geography, economics, political science, sociology, psychology, anthropology, and law-related education.

The Classes of 1986 and 1966 are celebrating 30 and 50-year reunions during Homecoming, September 30 - October 1, 2016

Learn more at foundation.peru.edu

B C P D L M M N B N M W V D R M J S M W D J A M C D N M E W R M E B G J E T S V J W D H

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Peru State College Foundation Honor Roll of Donors 2015 1930’s Mildred (Jodry) Vanderford, (1933) Madeleine (Migot) Schmucker, (1934) Dorothy (Allen) Blount, (1937) Maxine (Aufenkamp) Remmers, (1939)

1940’s Beunice Doty, (1940) Carolee (Garver) Heim, (1941) Phyllis (Benson) Hoffman, (1941) Dora (Wissler) Wissler, (1941) Lois (Zwiebel) Adams, (1942) Max & Wilma (Miller) Jackson, (1942) Melvin Larsen, (1942) Nelda (Lynch) Peterson, (1942) Blanche (Hunzeker) Rogers, (1942) Nina (Kanel) Klaudt, (1943) Marjorie (Moore) Rider, (1943) Wanda (Jacka) Schmidt, (1943) Virginia (Altaffer) Stuhr, (1943) Densel Fankhauser, (1944) Rosa (Weatherfield) Brooks, (1945) Mary (Reschke) Cashman, (1945) Jack Mast, (1945) Shirley (Schlauker) Wenzel, (1945) Marcille (Fass) Bohling, (1946) Willard (Rogers) Hunzeker, (1946) Dorothy (Moody) Parks, (1946) Janet (Mastin) Read, (1946) Alverta (Rehm) Wells, (1946) Margaret (Spellman) Harrold, (1947) Charles & Jane Henning, (1947) Donal-Deen (Parriott) Lewis, (1947) Nelle (Runyan) Pfister, (1947) Marie (Niemeyer) Pupkes, (1947) Eldon Reutter, (1947) Wanda (Shrader) Conradt, (1948) Ruth (Emigh) Nixon, (1948) Myra (Peterson) Roddy, (1948) Evelyn (Gatz) Yanders, (1948) Bernard (Juilfs) Bliefernich, (1949) Gerald Clayburn, (1949) June (Suhr) Dillon, (1949) Erma (Ehlers) Gobber, (1949) Tom & Dorothy (Maynard) Hallstrom, (1949) Sara (Lyons) Hippe, (1949) Verna (Hahn) Lang, (1949) Joan (Johnson) Marfice, (1949) Willard (Meister) Redfern, (1949) Don Wagner, (1949) Helen (Clutter) Wilkinson, (1949)

1950’s Ruth (Hunzeker) Elwell, (1950) Gertrude (Metzger) Ettleman, (1950) Ed & Betty (Rademacher) Hanna, (1950) Elaine (Beethe) Roberts, (1950) Russell Ruth, (1950) William & Lavonda (Aufenkamp) Abernathy, (1951) Joan (Thickstun) Buhrmann, (1951) Barbara (Bragg) Clayburn, (1951) Jim & Phyllis (Rogers) Finkle, (1951) Carlos Harrison, (1951) Laurine (Clayburn) Johnson, (1951) Leon Joy, (1951) David Lang, (1951) Verne Meier, (1951) Grace Pfister, (1951) Otto Rath, (1951) Annabelle (Eis) Rumbaugh, (1951) William Voegtli, (1951) Alta (Rodgers) Dakolios, (1952) Marlan & Marea Downey, (1952) Dorothy (Hawxby) Duerfeldt, (1952)

Anna (Lollman) Falsken, (1952) Lee (Stoddard) Ferguson, (1952) Maurice Moran, (1952) Barbara (Miller) Rawson, (1952) Ronald Schulte, (1952) Jean (Higgins) Thayer, (1952) Carol (Duerfeldt) Whitcomb, (1952) Anna (Kreifels) White, (1952) David Williamson, (1952) Grace (Seeba) Bentzinger, (1953) Lavon & Gleora (McCage) Covault, (1953) Ralph Etter, (1953) Ilene (Thiltges) Good, (1953) Harold Rasplicka, (1953) Bill & Janice (Redfern) Schulte, (1953) Marilyn (Epley) Van Groningen, (1953) Regina (Stander) Colbert, (1954) Ben & Carol (McKee) Duerfeldt, (1954) Rosina (Schacht) Harvey, (1954) Patricia (Lincoln) Holmes, (1954) Norma (Boyer) Johnson, (1954) Edith (Wetenkamp) McCaw, (1954) Curtis & Mary Sederburg, (1954) Marilyn (Hawxby) Clements, (1955) John & Ramona Crookham, (1955) Charles Ebel, (1955) Virginia (Patrick) Good, (1955) Mary (Trussell) Gorden, (1955) Dean & Marilynn (Stoehr) Meisinger, (1955) Erma (Cox) Pharaoh, (1955) William & Laverna (Roos) Sayer, (1955) Anita (Vanderford) Webster, (1955) Bertis & Georgia (Bauer) Adams, (1956) Clyde & Betty (Neil) Barrett, (1956) Keith Gilliland, (1956) Elaine (Stevenson) Koenig, (1956) Shirley (Stutheit) Krejci, (1956) Nels Overgaard, (1956) Wesley Paap, (1956) Charles & Vickie (Lecure) Pickering, (1956) John & Gera (Powers) Stilwell, (1956) Paul Weinert, (1956) Bill Beck, (1957) Dale & Sharon (Freeman) Johnson, (1957) Chuck & Elaine (Spier) Krumme, (1957) Lee Ogle, (1957) Fred Rothert, (1957) Nancy (Taggart) Winseman, (1957) Gayleen (Wilson) Zentner, (1957) Rose Marie (Pfeifer) Coe, (1958) Muriel (Rieke) Docker, (1958) Ray Ehlers, (1958) Donald Gibson, (1958) Jerry Grancer, (1958) Richard Kumpf, (1958) Gerald Ludwig, (1958) Gary (Montz) Mayfield, (1958) Jerry Payne, (1958) Wayne & Kay (Ward) Rydberg, (1958) Marjorie (Peckham) Scribner, (1958) Carol (Vogele) Sparr, (1958) Eldon & Betty (Whipple) Teten, (1958) Ralph Aranza, (1959) Marjorie (Leenerts) Biehl, (1959) Leroy Buchholz, (1959) Phillip & Nadine (Adcock) Fahrlander, (1959) Bob & Carolyn (Schacht) Henry, (1959) Walter & Peggy (Robinson) Huff, (1959) Franklin Pedersen, (1959) Wayne & Gloria (Epps) Pressnall, (1959) Jean & Dick (Ruyle) Rottman, (1959) Marcia (Hinton) Schwartz, (1959) Samantha Williamson, (1959)

1960’s Virginia & Jerry (Garton) Beckmann, (1960) Marvin Bergsten, (1960) John Bookwalter, (1960) Harry Bryant, (1960) John Christ, (1960) Edna (Zabel) Dennis, (1960) Chuck Francis, (1960) Rae (Henry) Fulton, (1960) Dennis & Linda (Ehlers) Hilfiker, (1960) Sue (Moore) Johnson, (1960) Delynn Kienker, (1960) Jere & Jan (Lillethorup) Krakow, (1960) Carolyn (Wing) Law, (1960) Ernie Madison, (1960) Sharon Ocker, (1960) Ronald Stoltenberg, (1960) Ronald & Mary Ann (Nutzmen) Wenninghoff, (1960) Connie (Erisman) Biggers, (1961) Marilyn (Glynn) Borgerding, (1961) Marilyn (Mueller) Dyke, (1961) Ruby (Taylor) Eschen, (1961) Alyce (Roberts) Green, (1961) Robert Heng, (1961) David Hoffman, (1961) Joyce (Kennedy) Hutton, (1961) Gerald Jeanneret, (1961) Joseph Kirby, (1961) Stanley Longfellow, (1961) Darlene (Critel) McCord, (1961) Lynn & Pauline (Kish) Osterholm, (1961) Robert Raper, (1961) Kent & Connie Wichman, (1961) Linda (Bertram) Bell, (1962) Mary (Dickman) Carlson, (1962) Ellen (Hunzeker) Hajek, (1962) Drexel (Miller) Harvey, (1962) Patricia (Rathe) Isaac, (1962) Jon Iverson, (1962) Jerry & Charlotte (Wheeler) Lunsford, (1962) Sandra (Craig) Mathews, (1962) Leonard McLain, (1962) Ray & Myrna (Bohling) Meister, (1962) Gaylin & Carol (McLain) Sudik, (1962) Larry Vice, (1962) Joyce Able, (1963) Loren Argabright, (1963) Galen Conn, (1963) Anita Cox, (1963) Kenneth & Leona (Christen) Dostal, (1963) Doris (Kresak) Galbraith, (1963) Lee Haeberlein, (1963) Larry Hennerberg, (1963) Russell Hicks, (1963) Margaret (Beard) Hormel, (1963) Ronald Kelley, (1963) Milan Kloepfer, (1963) Sharylin (Vrtiska) Knock, (1963) James Meacham, (1963) Linda (Beery) Moree, (1963) Clifford Murray, (1963) Steve Parker, (1963) Margaret (Kuenning) Pilch, (1963) Mary Ann (Graham) Privatt, (1963) Robert Reimers, (1963) Dean Stapleton, (1963) Larry & Ramona (Grindle) Swett, (1963) Laurel (Elscher) Brewer, (1964) Thomas Buchholz, (1964) Robert Eichenberger, (1964) Rudolph Eichenberger, (1964) William Hunsaker, (1964) JoAnn (Frerichs) Krause, (1964) Linda (Jeffers) Kreimeyer, (1964)

Joseph & Susan (Hulbert) Perina, (1964) Michael & Sandy (Pearson) Ramirez, (1964) Samuel Rankin, (1964) Gary Richey, (1964) Lloyd & Betty (Painter) Russo, (1964) Mary Ruzicka, (1964) Bonita (Kite) Steinback, (1964) Frances (Sanders) Steinbrook, (1964) Gary Stover, (1964) David Albert, (1965) JoAnn (Hauptman) Barry, (1965) Janet (Beemer) DeMott, (1965) Richard & Beverly (Quinn) Floerchinger, (1965) Ronald Foreman, (1965) Davis & Karen (Remmers) Gerdes, (1965) Larry Giesmann, (1965) David & Linda (Stephens) Gomon, (1965) Ilma (Gobber) Gottula, (1965) Alvin Henrichs, (1965) Judy Hetherington, (1965) Merlin Kastens, (1965) Bruce & Linda (Renz) Mau, (1965) Norma (McIntosh) McKercher, (1965) Marion & Barbara (Lasko) Miller, (1965) Fred & Linda (Moore) Regnier, (1965) Joe & Kathleen (Martin) Ward, (1965) George & Barbara (Thompson) Weiss, (1965) Donald Wright, (1965) Kenneth Boatman, (1966) Linda (Goodin) Carlson, (1966) Alicia (Andrews) Fricke, (1966) Louis Fritz, (1966) Lee Garrett, (1966) Michael & Cecilia (Evangelist) Harmon, (1966) Mary (Jones) Hilt, (1966) Lonnie & Nancy Houchin, (1966) John & Gloria (Carpenter)Hunzeker, (1966) Bernard Jarecke, (1966) Stanley Johnson, (1966) Julia (Kreuzburg) Kern, (1966) Norma Loew, (1966) Peter Lynch, (1966) Michael Malone, (1966) Michael McCormick, (1966) Katherine (Francis) Nunnery, (1966) Paul Oliphant, (1966) Robert Ruff, (1966) Margaret Slayter, (1966) Samuel Smith, (1966) Gerald Strecker, (1966) William Witty, (1966) Velma Adam, (1967) Garth & Gloria (Bean) Adams, (1967) Rodger & Joan (Bretthorst) Bassett, (1967) Donna (Dankof) Boren, (1967) Ray & Connie (Rademacher) Cain, (1967) Gerald Carnes, (1967) Paul & Arlene (Borcher) Fell, (1967) Mike Guilliatt, (1967) Carol (Henderson) Henning, (1967) Roger Lucas, (1967) Marleen (Koehler) Mehlin, (1967) Dennis Michal, (1967) Nancy (McCullough) Nealon, (1967) Gary & Verona (Borcher) Neumann, (1967) Darrell Plumb, (1967) Carol (Hawley) Schmucker, (1967) James Stanosheck, (1967) Sylvia Stokes, (1967) Daniel Strecker, (1967) Leonard Tomlyn, (1967) Barbara (Behrns) Vaughn, (1967) Lee Arellano, (1968) Rita (Russell) Bolinski, (1968) Charles Bowman, (1968)

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Buzz Burling, (1968) Dee (Rice) Campbell, (1968) Eston Clarke, (1968) Douglas Cotner, (1968) Douglas Cramer, (1968) Antoinette (Martin) Faulkner, (1968) William Kerins, (1968) Carol (Crabtree) Martin, (1968) Mary (Hicks) McCoy, (1968) Teresa (Hummel) Minard, (1968) Janet (Weers) Reed, (1968) Ralph Schawang, (1968) Mary Lou Schriner, (1968) James Selk, (1968) Chuck Shores, (1968) Kennard Stoner, (1968) Donita (Speckmann) Stuart, (1968) Bruce Vickrey, (1968) Ronald Yates, (1968) Richard Zaparanick, (1968) Gary Ahlin, (1969) Mildred (Hinton) Appleoff, (1969) John Bernadt, (1969) Bob & Mar (Riley) Bohlken, (1969) Patsy Harpster, (1969) Bruce Haughton, (1969) Butch & Dobey (Falter) Haws, (1969) Larry & Marian Henderson, (1969) Lavelle Hitzemann, (1969) Eleanor Jenkins, (1969) Larry Landwehr, (1969) Richard Linder, (1969) Chuck & Alice (Massoth) Mizerski, (1969) Richard & Ramona (Ogle) Moore, (1969) Lois (Marrs) Pietzyk, (1969) Robert Ridenour, (1969) James Rowe, (1969) Marilyn (Sugden) Scheinost, (1969) James Watson, (1969)

1970’s Van Allen, (1970) Gary & Marian (Schmidt) Anderson, (1970) Robert Beran, (1970) Larry Cotton, (1970) Dennis Curtis, (1970) Don & Claudia Dougherty, (1970) Lynn (Sailors) Harris, (1970) James Head, (1970) Dennis Heng, (1970) Kathryn (Rockemann) Hill, (1970) Stanley Johnson, (1970) Ronald Jones, (1970) Mary Kloepping, (1970) Linda Morris, (1970) Gary Rosso, (1970) David Sackles, (1970) Vernyce Schmidt, (1970) Larry Schwan, (1970) John Seeba, (1970) Margaret (Lutt) Smith, (1970) Barbara (Lampe) Vogel, (1970) Roger Borgman, (1971) Jody Bukacek, (1971) Steven Drake, (1971) Rose (Maloy) Duncan, (1971) Eldonna (Gobber) Forrest, (1971) Larry & Sue Green, (1971) Charles & Judy (Green) Grotrian, (1971) Jayne Hlavac, (1971) Judith (Warren) Irvin, (1971) Michael Johnson, (1971) Darwin McHugh, (1971) Janet (Warrick) McMullen, (1971) Mildred (Gilliland) Rieschick, (1971) Judith (Spiker) Seitz, (1971) Willa (Sodmann) Stutheit, (1971) Joseph & Joyce (Colgrove) Tackett, (1971) Brian & Patricia (Neumeister) Trottier, (1971)

16 The Stater

Dominic Vitticore, (1971) Lanny & Mary (Kern) Williams, (1971) Helen (Klein) Aufenkamp, (1972) James Bailey, (1972) Earl Brown, (1972) Maureen (Hauptman) Carpenter, (1972) Paul & Linda Chatelain, (1972) John Furlong, (1972) Patricia (McConnell) Hunsberger, (1972) Danny Jeanneret, (1972) Larry & Barbara (Fritz) Jones, (1972) Douglas Kottich, (1972) Mary (Egger) Lade, (1972) Susan (Ritter) Meyer, (1972) Leroy & Jane (Broady) Meyer, (1972) Robert & Judy (Henning) Peterson, (1972) Kathleen (Hoemann) Rattell, (1972) Joan (Bachenberg) Shurtliff, (1972) Steven Stemper, (1972) Gerald Stukenholtz, (1972) Esther (Preston) Tegtmeier, (1972) Dean Teten, (1972) Robert Tipton, (1972) Jon Tritsch, (1972) Gary Weiler, (1972) Brent Wilcox, (1972) James Wilson, (1972) Ron & Fran (Larson) Witt, (1972) Bob & Wendy Engles, (1973) Susan Foster, (1973) Mary Givehand, (1973) Mark & Kim (Fetters) Hahn, (1973) Rena (Meritt) Hall, (1973) Randy & Kathy (Lynch) Hansen, (1973) Kenneth Kamman, (1973) David Koll , (1973) Randy Luther, (1973) Roger Michaelis, (1973) Sandra (Grivel) Papineau, (1973) Terry Ratliff, (1973) John Waters, (1973) Beth (Haller) Butts, (1974) Thomas Craig, (1974) James Hanks, (1974) Mary (Hill) Howery, (1974) Trudy (Jones) Lainson, (1974) James Landwehr, (1974) Terry & Marlene (Meyer) Neddenriep, (1974) Bob & Lucy (Giersch) Winter, (1974) Deborah (Ehmen) Anderson, (1975) Ralph Arnold, (1975) David Chatelain, (1975) Robert Craig, (1975) Marilyn (Carper) Hesman, (1975) Doug Kingery, (1975) John Trayer, (1975) Dennis Williams, (1975) John Chatelain, (1976) Linda (Doty) Dickeson, (1976) Peggy (Kreifels) Groff, (1976) Annie Jones-Rucker, (1976) Kurtis & Deborah (Jeanneret) Kent, (1976) Alan Seybert, (1976) Sheila (Wiles) Walters, (1976) Raymond & Carol (Shiells) Woerlen, (1976) Janet (Vance) Barlow, (1977) Lora (Lunzmann) Black, (1977) John & Phyllis Dierking, (1977) Ted Harshbarger, (1977) Ray Kappel, (1977) Joseph Kotnik, (1977) Colleen (Burger) Kreifels, (1977) Dave and Kim Stemper, (1977) Carolyn Bednar, (1978) Erna Blount, (1978) Steve & Mary Jo Chatelain, (1978) Rhonda (Ahl) Chomos, (1978) Susan (Henricksen) Dallegge, (1978) Robert Garcia, (1978)

Barbara (Tempelmeyer) Gardner, (1978) Penny Kimball, (1978) Mary (Priefert) Scott, (1978) Susan (Krug) Wilhelm, (1978) Lance Wilson, (1978) Mark Yori, (1978) Sherri (Bogatz) Helman, (1979) Calvin Kunze, (1979) Jeffrey & Mary (Cotton) Pease, (1979) Tom Thomas, (1979) George Weiland, (1979) Wayne & Dee (Dettmer) Young, (1979)

1980’s Stacy Applegate, (1980) Lonnie Bane, (1980) Don Hardekopf, (1980) Vanessa (Weatherly) Marisett, (1980) Dennis Marshall, (1980) Delwinn & Ginny (Aufenkamp) Novell, (1980) Joseph Primm, (1980) Becki (Young) Propst, (1980) David & Susan (Jarvis) Thomas, (1980) Bethene (Erbst) Boardman, (1981) Bill Bruhn, (1981) Shelley (McAdams) Cygan, (1981) Karen Lechner, (1981) Virginia (Hazen) Schlender, (1981) Jeffrey & Teresa (Sweeney) Frields, (1982) Mick & Katherine (Toews) Haney, (1982) Judith (Anville) Herzog, (1982) Karen (Britt) Koehler, (1982) Lee & Rebecca (Hoffman) Kohrs, (1982) Dave Rossell, (1982) Jeffrey Schiebur, (1982) Pamela (Rohrs) Slater, (1982) Al Urwin, (1982) Darrell & Tami (Snyder) Wellman, (1982) Rhonda (Gobber) Burbach, (1983) Kimberly Hill, (1983) Jeff & Robin (Nelson) Smith, (1983) Suzanne (North) Whisler, (1983) Tom Bock, (1984) Ronda (Schroeder) Chab, (1984) Sharon (McCorkle) Clelland, (1984) Tim & Cindy (Plantenga) Hoffman, (1984) Julia (Kean) Martinosky, (1984) Pamela (Otteman) Mitchell, (1984) Roselyn (Burd) Shaffer, (1984) Stephanie (Mowry) Shrader, (1984) Mary Taylor, (1984) Neil Wolfe, (1984) Robert & Jody (Johnston) Bowman, (1985) SaraBeth Donovan, (1985) Shirley (Barnes) Neddenriep, (1985) Georjean (Schimke) Perez, (1985) Brian Bradley, (1986) Carol (Wilton) Chappell, (1986) Robert Graham, (1986) Deeann (Brungardt) Ketter, (1986) Jim & Theresa (Polsley) Krajicek, (1986) Patrick Mertens, (1986) Ritchie Nelson, (1986) Jeff & Nancy (Neels) Reed, (1986) Ward & Melissa (Tietz) Ruge, (1986) Karrie (Fisbeck) Wiarda, (1986) Joni (Bennett) Berg, (1987) Brenda (Willis) Blair, (1987) Genelle (Grossman) Busch, (1987) Mary (Warnick) Comstock, (1987) Mark Czapla, (1987) Jack & Mary (Neels) Frary, (1987) John Hurst, (1987) Mark Paneitz, (1987) Randy Reeves, (1987) Patrick Rice, (1987) Susan (Balfour) Rice, (1987) Linda (Correll) Shotton, (1987) Carol Strecker, (1987)

Jeannie (Thomas) Becker, (1988) Ron Brockhaus, (1988) Robyn (Dunbar) DeJonge, (1988) Elton & Connie (Sims) Edmond, (1988) Michael Gerdes, (1988) Anita (Downing) Hueftle, (1988) Beverly (Hawkins) Schwab, (1988) Carol (Hoffman) Stukenholtz, (1988) Roxann (Dalton) Coudeyras, (1989) Janice (Tucker-Rains) Dawson, (1989) Diane (Beckman) Denniston, (1989) Janice (Crow) Godinez, (1989) Scott Hoefs, (1989) Peggy (Hall) Kuser, (1989) Elizabeth (Roney) Pieters, (1989) Anne (Walsh) Stribling, (1989) Suan (Arnold) Baylor, (1990)

1990’s Kim Klostermeier, (1990) Barry Lockard, (1990) Sheri Menold, (1990) Alan Vervaecke, (1990) Todd & Brenda (Pawling) Anderson, (1991) Jodi (Hytrek) Becker, (1991) John & Mary Ann Chaney, (1991) Cathie (Cave) English, (1991) Mary (Rademacher) Findeis, (1991) Betty (Hundley) Hecht, (1991) Merry (Holliday) Holliday-Hanson, (1991) Robert Little, (1991) Lauri (Jilg) Novacek, (1991) Jonathan Platt, (1991) Cynthia Sellers, (1991) Janice (Henning) Smith, (1991) Ann (Jeanneret) Alden, (1992) Angela (Kuker) Antholz, (1992) Theresa (Schuster) Baumgartner, (1992) Renee Eberhard) Bose, (1992) Susan (Den) Cade, (1992) Wei Chong, (1992) Melissa (Bellows) Decker, (1992) Jean Everhart, (1992) Merri (Kolb) Johnson, (1992) Kelli (Sells) Maas, (1992) Linda (Downing) Mann, (1992) Jeffrey McWilliams, (1992) Robert Nelson, (1992) Jeanne Speckmann, (1992) Miriam (Graham) Werner, (1992) Diana Conradt-Mullen, (1993) Debra (Morris) Neely, (1993) Brenda (Lampe) Schwartz, (1993) Bryan & Stacy (Landwehr) Sullivan, (1993) Sara (Johnson) Veigel, (1993) Joe Boman, (1994) Margaret Coulter, (1994) Peter Dennis, (1994) Becky (Washtak) Feagan, (1994) Zoe Harty, (1994) Julie (Jobman) Parde, (1994) Betsy (Rosenquist) Reed, (1994) Steven & Erin (O’Grady) Sayer, (1994) Vernon Thacker, (1994) Ricki (Fictum) Valentino, (1994) Ivan Wineglass, (1994) Julie (Ramsey) Bauman, (1995) Jennifer Berck, (1995) Ryan Casey, (1995) Dewey Fingar, (1995) Jeffrey & Audra (Williams) Schawang, (1995) Barbara (Brady) Beatty, (1996) Glenda (Roesch) Nelson, (1996) Marlene Oaks, (1996) Thomas Proudfit, (1996) Carl Quijas, (1996) John Roddy, (1996) Stephanie (Lane) Ware, (1996) James Hall, (1997)

Jeffrey Hammer, (1997) Katherine (Hilgenfeld) Heim, (1997) Jennifer (Hamann) Jones, (1997) Denise (Coupe) Kurpgeweit, (1997) Michael Schmidt, (1997) Ryan Seagert, (1997) Tressa Whittington, (1997) Monica (Alba) Yankus, (1997) Ed Ankrom, (1998) Chan Crooker, (1998) Linda (Berger) Isaacson, (1998) David Reilly, (1998) John Sayer, (1998) Jason & Ronda (Reiman) Stinson, (1998) Jason Ward, (1998) Teresa (Grooms) Breazile, (1999) Deborah (Larson) Breuer, (1999) Joan Brown, (1999) Jeffrey Dean, (1999) Teri Dorn, (1999) Scott & Amy Douglas, (1999) Cathy Fugleberg, (1999) Scott & Erin (Mahlberg) Hochstein, (1999) Carrie (Barton) Jeanneret, (1999) Jason and Laura (Bando) Ross, (1999) Lisa (Parde) Siegel, (1999)

2000’s Kevin Caverzagie, (2000) Cecilia Daniels, (2000) Katie (Gilbert) Foster, (2000) Steven Heine, (2000) Stacie (Morehead) Lewis, (2000) Sara (Glathar) Martin, (2000) Adam & Denise Miller, (2000) Ann (Scheitel) Severin, (2000) Tamara (Haack) Westhart, (2000) Jonathan Annin, (2001) Jenifer Busing, (2001) Karen (Weber) Horky, (2001) Darlene (Fritz) Merz, (2001) Zachariah Navrkal, (2001) Charles Genuchi, (2002) Sheri Grotrian-Ryan, (2002) Daniel & Nikki (Moody) Hayes, (2002) Darlon Rohlff, (2002) Tonya Volk, (2002) Sharon Bohan, (2003) Jeffrey Ely, (2003) Shontelle Gillespie, (2003) Renee’ (Moss) Howe, (2003) Jeffrey Weerts, (2003) Amy (Hollesen) Wynn, (2003) Cynthia Burki, (2004) Brannon Hall, (2004) Randy Rouse, (2004) Benjamin Simpson, (2004) Roger Virost, (2004) David Bremer, (2005) Gary & Stephanie (Arnold) Mercer, (2005) Joanna (Hays) Cielocha, (2006) Kent & Tanya (Rice) Crotty, (2006) Thomas & Jari (Wehmeier)Dunekacke, (2006) Timothy Hahn, (2006) Katy (Thomas) Billings, (2007) James Daberkow, (2007) Bryan & Heather (Hurst) Diekmann, (2007) Tom Doran, (2007) Michael & Danni (Montgomery) Stoddard, (2007) Belle Williams, (2007) Leslie Baker, (2008) Dusty Bell, (2008) Sheila Gray, (2008) Guy Hale, (2008) Jeff Jedlicka, (2008) Leighton Michaelson, (2008) Donna (Neeman) Neeman, (2008) Amber (Engelman) Oakes, (2008) Peter & Savannah (Wenzl) Kok, (2009)

Brenda Lutz, (2009)

2010’s Regan Anson, (2010) Raedeahna Gerdes, (2010) Hope (DeBrie) Hibler, (2010) Rebecca Hoy, (2010) Hillary Maness, (2010) Dean McConkie, (2010) Gretchen McCulley, (2010) Lisa Parriott, (2010) Susan (Binns) Reynolds, (2010) Marilyn (Woebbecke) Schlake, (2010) Michael Swigert, (2010) Jennifer (Draper) Wolf, (2010) Carl Coffman, (2011) Adam and Promise (Nelson) DeBilzan, (2011) Melissa McLaughlin, (2011) Shelby Olson, (2011) Jennifer Pitzl, (2011) Mark Jones, (2012) Leslie Miller, (2012) Jo Vostrez, (2012) Rebecca Bartlett, (2014) Todd & Michelle Simpson, (2015)

Friends Mike & Kim Adams Wayne & Joan Albury Ginny Allen Maria Alonzo Harry Andersen Virginia Argabright Kelly Asmussen Beverly Atkinson E. Wylene Baker Mike Barger James and Jennifer Bartels Dorinda Beatty Glenny & Sam (Clausen) Bell Dorothy Beutler David Bierman Kimberly Blazek Jim Bohlken Hilary Bradford Carolyn (Edwards) Bredemeier Roger & Judy Breed Wayne Breyfogle Angela Bridgmon Nancy Brown Everett Browning Michael Bruce Ron Burbridge Eulanda Cade Diane Carpenter Kathy Carroll Lonnie Clark Bill Clemente Cody Closner Dick & Terri Clyde Jack Cooper Jack Crabtree Sara Crook Lawrence and Judith Curry Nadine (Knople) Cusack Karen Daly Bob Davis Joe Davis Spencer Davis Bill Davis Roger & Marcia Dawdy Saundra Deepe Karen DiPillo Bruce Doll Matt Donelson Joyce Douglas Mike Ely Bert and Virginia Engles Victor and Irene Faesser

John Fettig Richard Flynn Pat Fortney Mary French Richard & Sandra Fruehling Jerry Gallentine Sally Giittinger Paul Gilbert Michael and Janelle Grabowski James Grant Bill Graves Mavis Green Heather Greer Gary Hahn Colene (Pate) Hance Dan and Elaine Hanson De Ann Hanson Tammie Hart Janet Hawley Elroy Hefner Ronald Holmes Dan & Alice Holtz Mary Horsham Thomas Howe Joe & Rita Ingersoll Laurel Iverson Judith Ivey Rick Janssen Becca Jewell Richard & Nancy Johnson Della Jurek Jodelle Keeler Fay Killen Kyle Killen Roberta Klein Mike Koslosky Judy Kreuch Karen Krofta Paul & Loretta Kruse Janet Kurtenbach Marc Kurz Mason Lamb Craig Latscha R. Michelle Lee John Levitz Daryl Long Michael & Vicki Long Patricia Longley Cynthia Loope Eddi Lopez Nancy Luetchens Joel Lundak Michael Lutz Carla Maltas Barbara (Meritt) Masters Maurice & Maedean Mathews Veronica McAsey Larry & Kay McKinzie Maxine Mehus Marie Meland William and Angela Melton Tony Missak Doc & Betty Moller Allan Moody Bill & Helen Moore Ronald Mortensen John & Julie Moser Jeremy Mouton Kendall Neiman Iola Neumayer Kristi Nies Jay Noddle Carol Norstadt Janet Nosal Becky O’Connor Larry & Garrie Oppitz Terry Ott Ervin & Karen Paben Troy & Lisa Paben Terry Penke

Linda Perez Kristin Petersen Robert & Laura Phares Pamela Pitzer Fred Pyle Susan Quinn Father Raybourn & Susan Raybourn Anne Raynor Donna Rector Don & Linda Reiman Martin Ricks Don Ried John Roeder Kristine Rogers James & Walta Ruff Kyle Ryan Peter Sadloski Lee Sapp Steve Schneider Greg & Darolyn Seay Mary (Hamer) Simmons Kim Smith Lois Smith Marcia Smith Tim & Sharon Smulling Bill & Shirley Snyder Elaine Springfield Robert & Kimberley Stafford Doris Stanley Louis Steck Danny Stoney Esther Sullivan Kathy Tynon Rod Vandeberg Lou & Cindy Varley S.R. Vogt Fredrick and Susan Wachtler Jeff & Sue Walker Cindy Waller Rosemary Walstrom Pauline Watson Ruth Wendelin Cathy Weyand Rick Whitaker Aaron Wiegert Micki Willis Doc Wininger Robert Wirth Debbie Witt Lila Zimmerman Assurity Life Insurance Company AT&T Foundation B G Consulting BKD Black Hills Energy Brownville Christian Church Carson National Bank Casey’s General Store Caterpillar Foundation Clean Slate F&M Bank Farmers Bank of Cook FBL Financial Group Inc First National Bank of Johnson Harris Foundation Hy-Vee Jackson - Jackson & Associates, Inc. Lambda Alpha Epsilon Kappa Omicron Rho MidAmerican Energy Foundation Nebraska Community Foundation Omaha Community Foundation PSEA Red Cross Club Reznicek Engineering Inc. Shell Companies Foundation State Farm Companies Foundation The Richardson Foundation Troy A Kanter Family Foundation Union Pacific Company

The Stater 17

FRIENDS Donna Jean Beccard of Fort Collins, CO passed away March 6, 2016. She was a long time member of Heritage Presbyterian Church. She had many friends and was “Grandma Donna” to all who met her.

V. Loreen (Lindburg) Benedict-Burrichter of Shenandoah, IA passed away on January 20, 2016.

Loreen taught school, enjoyed traveling and had a love of music. She loved her friends, family and her church, and served as an active member in many local organizations.

Robert Leuenberger of Tecumseh passed away on March 12, 2016. Bob had many hobbies and interests including fishing, coon, pheasant and quail hunting and bagging deer, antelope and elk. He announced Legion baseball games in Tecumseh for over 20 years. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, sons and grandchildren.

Charlotte Katherine (Reeves) McComas of Nebraska City passed away February 4, 2016. She worked at Peru State until she retired in 1998. Her love for her family was very important to her. Her biggest pride was working as the Brownville Village Clerk for 31 years.

David Mickey of Lincoln passed away on May 15, 2016. Dr. Mickey taught at Peru State College from 1948-1951 and Nebraska Wesleyan University. Dr. Mickey authored “Sunset on the Prairie” and “Of Sunflowers, Coyotes and Plainsmen” – two historical recounts of Nebraska Wesleyan History.

Kathleen Pollard of Storm Lake, IA passed away on May 14, 2016. She was active in the community as a leader of the Cook Go-Getters 4-H Club and other organizations. Her life was filled with many adventures and she traveled extensively.

Frances Audrey Rickabaught of Tabor, IA passed away December 31, 2015. She taught school for 34 years before retiring. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Christmas was her favorite time of the year when all of her family could get together.

Randy L. Sudman of Nemaha passed away December 27, 2015. He worked for many years as a heavy equipment operator. He was an avid sports fan, coaching softball teams that his daughters played on, and enjoying watching his kids and grand-kids compete. He especially loved toiling in his garden and setting up Christmas lights every year.

Lois Richardson Wittwer of Humboldt passed away on February 1, 2016. Lois was a 4-H leader for a number of years and was involved with her daughter’s school activities. She loved to dance, play cards and go out with friends.

1930s Eleanor Hemphill Brooks (’39) of Hopkinton, MA passed away on July 29, 2015. Eleanor actively participated in her church and local organizations, and offered her head, heart and hands in any and all ways she was called to service.

Rachel May “Peggy” Kerns (’36) of Humboldt passed away April 24, 2016. Peggy was active in the Humboldt community as a private music teacher, organist and choir director for the United Methodist Church, and active in Music Club, Band Parents, Book Club and PEO. Madeleine “Mimi” Schmucker (’34) of Brock passed away on April 6, 2016. Mimi was a busy farm wife and mother. She was in active in 4-H, supporting her sons in their projects and other activities.

She was a lifelong church member, member of several organizations and a life-long sports fan and supporter.

Margaret L. (Casey) Williamson (’35) of Johnson, NE passed away May 14, 2016. Margaret was a lifetime member of the Johnson United Methodist Church, 50+ year member of Trestleboard Chapter #67, Order of the Eastern Star, and involved in the community she loved – Johnson.

1940s Glennis L. Dolan (’46) of Humbolt passed away January 13, 2016. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. She was very caring and self-sacrificing.

Verda Dykstra (’44) of Loveland, CO passed away on March 21, 2016. Verda was a Past Worthy Matron of The Order of the Eastern Star Colombine Chapter #11, President of Epsilon Sigma Alpha Sorority, Alpha Sigma Tau HighSchool Sorority, Newcomers club and Red Hats. Family meant everything to Verda.

Arthur Kermoade of Falls City (’49) passed away May 12, 2015. He served in the Coast Guard in Alaska, Korean War in 1950, and World War II. Marcelyn “Scotty” B. Nincehelser (’45) of Pickstown, SD passed away April 5, 2016. She offered inspiration, love, and support to her family and encouraged them to pursue their dreams.

Charles Rogers (’48) of Torrington, WY passed away on April 25, 2016. Chuck served in a variety of education roles, culminating in his tenure as president of Eastern Wyoming College. In the words of his colleagues, “Surely his claim to fame was his dogged dedication to an intrinsic belief in affording service to the people of his area.”

Verona L.C. Scheer (’44) of Tecumseh passed away February 13, 2016. Verona taught Math and Business for 36 years at Nebraska High Schools in Cook, Fremont, Dunbar and Harlan, Iowa.

Hayes Schoenbohm Schreiner (’45) of Omaha passed away February 9, 2016. She worked alternately as a chemist and a teacher. Golf was her passion and she was a fanatic Husker fan.

Grace Stark (’41) of Sioux City, IA passed away on April 26, 2016. Grace enjoyed camping, play-

18 The Stater

ing bridge and her Saturday morning breakfast at Hy-Vee with her friends. She liked cooking and baking, and always had homemade cookies in the cookie jar.

1950s Charles A. “Charlie” Janecek (’52) of Alda passed away on December 19, 2015. He was employed at Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant until he retired. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and could always be depended on to give service when someone was in need.

Donald Jensen (’50) of Lenoir, NC passed away on April 16, 2016. Don taught for many years, but eventually changed careers and became the owner and CEO of Western Carolina Electrical Supply Company. Throughout his life he was active in his community, church and family.

Phyllis Gess Lamb (’55) of Lincoln, NE passed away on April 12, 2016. Phyllis, originally from Syracuse, lived much of her life in Bolivar, MO and is survived by her son and his family.

Val Jean McKeever (’57) of Wymore, passed away March 2, 2016. She enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s events, and spending time with friends and family.

A. James “Jim” Stewart (’71) of Prescott, AZ passed away on January 10, 2016. Jim taught at Walker Jr High in Cypress/Buena Park, CA and served as a counselor there for 31 years. He was a very athletic guy and had a special love for hiking the many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado.

Doan Twidwell (’51) of Fargo, ND passed away March 22, 2016. He was an avid reader of newspapers and magazines. He enjoyed spending time at Otter Tail Lake, motor homing, and wintering in Florida. The greatest love of his life was his wife.

1960s Hilma Bertha (Weber) Badberg (’65) of Cook passed away on January 28, 2016. She was an elementary rural school teacher in Otoe and Johnson counties throughout her 35 year teaching career and lived on a farm for nearly 74 years.

Marlene Dodd (’69) of rural Oneida, passed away February 16, 2016. She enjoyed aerobics and spending time with her family. She especially enjoyed the holidays and having the whole family together.

Kenneth W. Dostal (’63) from Gretna passed away January 12, 2016. He worked as a teacher and founded All-Metro Driving School. He was instrumental in developing sports facilities and programs at Mary Our Queen and in Gretna. He was an avid sports fan for Gretna High School, Iowa State, Creighton Prep, UNO and UNL. He played football, basketball, and track at Peru State.

Ronald Grant (’65) of Madrid, IA passed away on June 5, 2016. He taught Social Studies and Physical Education for 28 years in the Madrid Junior High, as well as coaching Junior High football, wrestling and track.

Jerry Marks (’67) of Washington, MO passed away on March 27, 2016. Jerry always enjoyed a joke and was the center of any activity and was loved by all who knew him. He taught school, was a business owner and had varied interests following his retirement.

John Robert Okerlin (’60) of The Villages, Florida passed away February 26, 2016. He enjoyed golf and other activities that were available. Throughout his years he enjoyed painting, acting, volunteering to be an auctioneer at events as well as sports announcer.

1970s Robert “Bob” Davis (’73) of Eustis passed away February 14, 2016. He was always busy and enjoyed cooking, golfing, music, gardening, reading, cars, and motorcycles.

Larry L. Shoff (’75) of Beatrice passed away February 16, 2016. Larry was a teacher and coach for 33 years. He was involved with the Peru Alumni Association and an avid golfer.

Steve Taylor (’71) of Las Vegas, Nevada passed away January 9, 2016. He graduated from Peru State College and was in the Nebraska National Guard for six years after. He worked for thirty years with J.C. Penney and ten years with US Airways.

Ricki Ann (Fictum) (’73) Valentino of Lincoln passed away April 7, 2016. She was loved by her students, family, and friends. She lived an extremely active and productive life. She was an avid skier, loved going to her lake cabin and enjoyed traveling.

1980s Aaron B. Larson (’80) passed away of natural causes July 14, 2015. He never gave up the dream of teaching theater or founding his own theatre. His wife Sheryl Shultz Larson (’81) continues to teach in Chamberlain, SD Robin Mayer (’80) of Beatrice passed away April 7, 2016. He did a variety of work over the course of his life, but he was primarily known for his aptitude as a certified public accountant.

1990s Jill Morfeld Kueny (’99) from Louisville passed away on November 15, 2015. Jill was a child advocate and was able to live out her dreams through her career. She enjoyed traveling, golf, cooking, shopping and being surrounded by family and friends.

2000s Wendy Engles (’06) of Auburn passed away on April 30, 2016. Wendy graduated from Peru State with her Masters of Science in Education. As an educator, Wendy specialized in Remedial Reading and Remedial Math. She taught in the Nebraska City, Dawson-Verdon and Auburn public school systems. She enjoyed volunteering her time at St. Francis Gift and Thrift, reading and spending time with her family.

Hildegard Center, “Bridges: Sharing our Past to Enrich the Future” Exhibition celebrating Nebraska’s 150. More than 800 photo submissions were reviewed before final selections were made. The photo exhibit will travel the state during 2017-2018.

Friends David Klee, former faculty member at Peru Sate College, has written a book called, Finding the Boy Inside: Overcoming the Effects of Being Bullied Through the Use of God’s Gift. Dr. Klee currently teaches at Buena Vista University.

Leonard Skov, former interim president of Peru State College, was recently honored for his volunteerism and dedication to his community in Kearney with the Freedom Award. Since he retired from the University of Nebraska at Kearney where he served as dean of education for 26 years, his involvement has included stints with The Archway, Kearney Regional Airport and South Platte United Chambers of Commerce.

1960s Ken Boatman (’66) Lieutenant Colonel (retired) US Army is serving a term as Chapter Commander of the Dallas Chapter of the Military Order of the World Wars (MOWW). The MOWW chartered in 1919 by the U.S. Congress as a veteran’s organization with membership open to all officers who have served in any branch of the military. The Dallas Chapter with over 350 members is one of the largest and most active chapters in the national MOWW. Wilma Semenec Decker (’67) celebrated her 100th birthday in Ashland. Wilma is a former teacher who instructed pupils in country schools including Wann, an unincorporated village north of Ashland.

Louis “Lou” Fritz (’66) was recently featured in an article for his running career, which has included being on the first cover of “Runner’s World” magazine, competing in the Boston Marathon, and running to work during his 29 year tenure teaching at Falls City. Lou was a member of the 1965 Bobcat Cross Country team.

1970s Phillip Chapman (’74) was honored for his work at Prairie View A&M as the first volleyball coach in school history. Phillip served as an assistant men’s basketball coach under head coach Jim DuPlantier until 1985, when he was tasked with starting the varsity volleyball program.

1980s Father Patrick Harrison (’84) was honored on April 19, 2016 at the annual priest jubilee celebration where he celebrated his 25th anniversary in the priesthood. Father Harrison is the Associate pastor at St. Gerald in Ralston and duties of defender of the Bond of Metropolitan Tribunal.

Debbie Moroney (‘80) accepted a full-time teaching appointment this year teaching Kindergarten with Loup City Public Schools. Her teaching experience includes most of the elementary grades, special education, gifted and talented, and ESL. Mary Beth (Unvert) Rathe (’87) was appointed Deputy Executive Director of the National Collegiate Honors Council in January 2016. NCHC provides professional development and resources to honors college directors and staff in the United States and abroad.

Max Kathol (’09, ’11) was hired as the new president and CEO of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce. “Max is a strategic planner with a strong understanding of government policy, retail and manufacturing,” Chamber Board Chair Lori Gartner said. “He has vast experience with downtown and historic preservation, grant writing, economic incentives, business retention and expansion.”

John Kliewer (’03) of Palmyra, MO accepted the head football coach position at Cameron. Previously, John served as Palmyra High School’s varsity football defensive coordinator.

Kristopher Matthews (’00) of Omaha recently accepted the role of chief operating officer for the Decatur County Hospital in Kansas. “Kris brings quality experience for the position that includes operations director of laboratory services for Alegent Health and CHI Health,” said Jim Ulrich, Chief Executive Officer.

Darlene Merz (’01) of Falls City recently gave a special presentation, “Struggling Reader-Dyslexia”.

Darlene focuses on helping students across Nebraska with reading difficulties and dyslexia by tutoring, sharing new research presentations about dyslexia and working toward legislation in Nebraska.

Frankie Mossa (’11) of Norfolk recently passed the Certified Public Accountant exam. He joined the firm Christensen Brozek Faltys in 2013 and specializes in Taxation of Individuals, Taxation of Businesses, Business Valuations, IRS Representation and Bookkeeping.

Linda Spencer (’08) is retiring after 17 years as Sidney Elementary Principal in the Sidney Community School District. Linda received her Master’s Degree from Peru State College. For her future plans, Linda said she has always dreamed of teaching at the college level; working with students wanting to go into education.

2010s Brian Burr (‘16) joined the staff of the Grand Island YMCA as a personal trainer working with clients of all ages and fitness levels. During his time at Peru State, Brian was safety on the football team, team captain and selected the second team safety position in the north division of the HAAC. June Campbell (’16) of Grand Island started a new position with Shonsey, Placke, Maruska & Stava, certified public accountants. June has previous experience with payrolls, payroll reports, bookkeeping, bank reconciliations, financial statements and income tax returns.

Nikki Graves (’12) of Fairfax, MO was hired at the C.A.R.E. Center as an advocate. The Center acts as an emergency shelter to all victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse.

Cole Sharp (’13) joined Premier Bank as Nebraska City branch manager. Cole previously worked as a part-time teller for the former Farmers Bank & Trust and as a Peru State College admissions counselor.

Brice King (’11) is the new principal at Humphrey Public School. He previously taught at Broken Bow Public School and served as the district’s technology and integration specialist. He and his family will be moving to Humphrey in July to begin his new role as principal.

Rodney Reuter (’85) was appointed to the County Court of the Third Judicial District Court of Nebraska by Governor Pete Ricketts. Rodney has been a Deputy County Attorney at the Office of the Lancaster County Attorney since 1990.

1990s Jason Libal (’97) of Wahoo was named the new superintendent for Ashland-Greenwood public schools. He will take over for the 2016-17 school year. Jason has been secondary principal since 2010 for Wahoo Public and principal of Wahoo Middle School.

Catrina Nahayo (’99) of Fremont was one of 15 great teachers to receive the 2016 Alice Buffet Outstanding Teacher Award. Catrina has spent her entire 16-year career with OPS at Florence.

Dr. Erin (O’Grady) Sayer (’91) has been promoted to Assistant Professor of Practice for Undergraduate Education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Erin works in academic advising for biochemistry at UNL’s Beadle Center.

Steven Sayer (’90, ’94) of Dunbar has been selected as the 1st Congressional District social studies teacher of the year by the Nebraska State Council for Social Studies. He will receive the award at their state conference in Omaha.

2000s Renee Carter (’07) of Tecumseh was sworn into office as a member of the Tecumseh City Council on March 7. Carter is currently employed with Southeast Nebraska Developmental District where she is involved in helping people with developmental disabilities find jobs, buy their own homes, and accomplish everyday life skills.

Dania Freudenburg (’11) has been named the next principal at Omaha Roncalli High School. “Mrs. Freudenburg has many skills which will greatly benefit the school, including extensive experience in professional development for teachers, teacher observations and teacher evaluations,” said Roncalli President Ann O’Connor.

Nik Johanson (’01) of McCook has been accepted as a member of the Class VI of the Nebraska Water Leaders Academy, a one-year program that educates participants about the vital role rivers, streams and aquifers play in the economic sustainability of the state. Nik is a natural resources specialist with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.

Rebecca Johnson (’04) of Auburn had a photo selected to represent Nemaha County for the

Kara Bogus and Brad Florian (’11) married on July 2, 2016 in Columbus, NE. Kara is employed as a dental hygienist at Lincoln Family Dentistry and Brad will be teaching fourth grade at St. Michael’s Catholic School in Lincoln in the fall.

Danae Disney (’13) and Trevor Plessel were united in marriage on April 23, 2016 in Seward.

Danae currently works for Cline Williams Law Firm in Lincoln. Trevor currently works for Roth Aerial in Milford.

Mallory Hull (’15) and Logan Paben (’16) wed June 4, 2016 in Columbus. In the fall Mallory will be an Early Childhood Special Education teacher with the Gretna Public Schools. Logan recently graduated from Peru State College with a degree in education and was the NAIA’s A.O. Duer Award winner and was named CoSIDA’s Academic All-American Award winner.

Ashley Iwanski and Travis Klanecky were united in marriage in May 2016 near Ord. Ashley is currently working on her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction and is employed at Loup county Elementary School. Travis is employed at Country Partners Cooperative.

Alyssa Knodel (’16) and Alex Watts announced their engagement and plans to marry in October in North Platte. Alyssa is employed at NelNet Corporation in Omaha and Alex is the owner of Watts Tech LLC, IT Support.

Caitlyn Lesan (‘16) and Ryan Maitlin wed on July 23, 2016. Caitlyn is the director of admissions and assistant director of the education foundation at Southwestern. Ryan is a peace officer for the Creston Police Department.

Sarah Smith (’08) and Joseph Nedrig of Grand Island were married on June 20, 2015. Sarah is employed as an Elementary Music Specialist by the Grand Island Public School district and Joseph is employed at Case New Holland as an assembler.

The Stater 19

Save the Date All-College Sesquicentennial Reunion

The Peru Stater

PSC Foundation P.O. Box 10 Peru, NE 68421-0010

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID LINCOLN, NE PERMIT #365

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

June 16-18, 2017 Alumni, former faculty and staff and friends are welcome to attend a full weekend of unique experiences and special activities to commemorate the anniversary.

To learn more, visit:

foundation.peru.edu The Peru Stater is published twice each year by the Peru State College Foundation. Send your comments, news items and address changes to: The Peru Stater PSC Foundation PO Box 10 Peru, NE 68421-0010

Inside this Peru Stater you’ll find …

Pages 4-5

Alumni Events and Photos

Pages 6-7

Sesquicentennial Updates and College News

Pages 8-9

PSC Athletics and Pep Band Spotlight

Pages 10-11 College Theatre Renovation Pages 14-19 Alumni Profiles

20 The Stater

For more information about Peru State College, Nebraska’s first college, visit www.peru.edu or find us on Facebook.

For more information about the Peru State College Alumni Association and Foundation, visit foundation.peru.edu. or call us at 402-872-2304 or email us at pscfoundation@peru.edu.