F2013 Peru Stater

Peru Stater Fall 2013

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Fall 2013 Vol. 58, No. 2

The Oak Bowl Renovation The Oak Bowl construction is progressing at Peru State. Since the last update, many of the buildings have been completed, including the press box, ticketing booth, the lower level ticketing/restrooms/storage building, the concourse restroom building and the concessions building.

The additional stadium seating risers have been poured and the stadium seats have been installed – and they look great.

The path from the AWAC parking lot to the concourse has progressed with retaining walls for the sidewalk. The Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees voted to approve the use of up to $70,000 of Capital Improvement Fee Funds toward new sidewalks and accompanying lighting along 5th Street near the new Oak Bowl entrance.

These improvements were not a part of the Oak Bowl project budget. They will provide a lighted sidewalk from the AWAC to the Oak Bowl keeping pedestrian traffic off of the street.

The field itself has undergone some changes with drainage installation, final grading, and the base being built and the new colored turf installed.

You can mark your calendars for the Oak Bowl Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, scheduled to be held on September 6, 2014 when the Bobcats play Midland University.

“This field is an ever-present reminder of what grit and hard labor will accomplish.”

-Mattie Cook Ellis 1902 Golden Rod Above: The aerial view of the nearly complete Oak Bowl renovation project breathes new life in to this more than hundred-year old quote, making it as true today as it was when the original Oak Bowl was completed.

Left: A historical photograph shows what the original Oak Bowl looked like in 1901.

The historical Oak Bowl was dedicated on Thanksgiving day in 1901, and has served as the pinnacle of Bobcat sporting events since then.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Greetings from Peru State

Our growth is the direct result of dedi- fit his or her interests. This approach takes cated faculty and staff who are committed the concept of personal attention to a new to the success of each and every student. level.

In order to build a vibrant future it’s Each day they strive to ensure that stuDan Hanson dents have opportunities for unique learn- critical that we “get the word out” about Peru State College ing experiences inside and outside of the the exciting things happening at Peru President classroom, whether it’s a trip to a Presiden- State. Gaining prominence is critical to tial Inauguration, a class with inmates in future growth. That’s why we are investthe Tecumseh State Correctional Institu- ing more than ever in our marketing and tion, harvesting and analyzing algae from admissions efforts. Our creative, talented farm ponds or creating a food distribution staff is leveraging social media, digital adDear Friends, center for people in need. These hands-on, vertising and mobile communication in As the holiday season draws near, we engaging learning experiences give our exciting new ways. You can see for yourcan’t help but reflect and be thankful for students the tools and experiences they self by liking us on Facebook, following us the opportunity to work at a place that has need to think critically which helps to en- on Twitter or visiting our You Tube chana profound impact on the lives of others. sure they can compete successfully. While nel. And be sure to check out our 360-deWe are fortunate to be able to play a role they are building knowledge and honing gree virtual tour via our mobile app. In the in the lives of our students as they pursue skills they are also making lasting memo- coming months you will see a complete their dreams and prepare for exciting fuoverhaul of our website, which for the first ries. tures. time will be mobile-friendly, allowing proStudent engagement at Peru State now Just as our students prepare for their spective students the ability to apply via future, the college too is positioning for starts from the moment a prospective stutheir smart phone or tablet. dent requests information.

With the implea vibrant future by investing in student While these initiatives are exciting recruitment. Establishing strong enroll- mentation of a new software system in the and critical to achieving our goals, we Department of Admissions, we are able to ments is critical to our success. The college continue to need your support as alumni. had a very large freshman class this fall – create personalized content for each stuPlease consider contributing financially to dent during the recruitment process.

This the largest in recent history. Perhaps even the institution. Student scholarships, new more exciting is the fact that more than tailored material ranges from automated residence halls, an improved campus ene-mails to personalized brochures to a 10 percent of those students are among trance or an Oak Bowl Fieldhouse – there unique webpage, all of which allow the Nebraska’s best and brightest as Board of student to view customized content that is no shortage of important projects from Trustees Scholars.

College President Dr. Dan Hanson PSC Foundation Board of Directors SaraBeth Donovan (‘85), Chair - Vienna, VA Mike Guilliatt (‘67), Vice Chair - Fremont, NE Judson Douglas III (attended ‘56), Treasurer - Lincoln, Neb. Chuck Niemeyer (‘65) - Secretary - Ashland, NE Larry (‘71) & Sue Green - Miramar Beach, FL Cindy (‘82) & Tim (‘84) Hoffman - Lincoln, Neb. Fred (‘73) & Pam Robertson - Westlake Village, CA Rod Vandeberg - Falls yCity, Neb. Dennis Wittmann - Auburn, Neb. PSC National Alumni Association Board of Directors Paul (’67) and Arlene (Borcher, ’67) Fell, Co-Presidents - Lincoln, Neb. Carlos Harrison (’51), Vice President - Shenandoah, Iowa Ed Ankrom (’91), Secretary - Beatrice, Neb. Kim (’90) and Kris (Kubert, ’94) Vrtiska, Co-Treasurers - Falls City, Neb. Elton (’88) and Connie (Sims, ’87) Edmond - Lincoln, Neb. Dan (’76) and Cheryl Cotton - Peru, Neb.

which to choose. You can also help us by telling your friends, families and prospective students about the great things happening at Peru State.

Thank you for your continued support of Nebraska’s first college and happy holidays!

All the Best,

Dan Hanson, Ph.D. President

Nick (’87) and Laurel (Smith, ’87) Harling - Falls City, Neb. Chuck (’69) and Alice (Massoth, ’69) Mizerski - Lincoln, Neb. Fritz (’74) and Char (Lutz, ’74) Stehlik - Omaha, Neb. Angelia Rohwer Steiner (’90) - Sabetha, Kan Al Urwin(’82) - La Vista, Neb. Editor: R. Todd Simpson, Executive Director, PSC Foundation Managing Editor/Writer: Brooke Ashford (‘12) Graphic Design: Kellen Sailors (‘12), Graphic Design Artist Copy Editor: Promise DeBilzan (‘11) Contributing Writers: Regan Anson (‘11), Director, PSC Marketing & Public Affairs Photography: Dr. Bill Clemente, PSC Professor of English PSC Foundation Staff Rebecca Johnson (‘05), Graphic Design Artist, PSC Marketing & Public Affairs Kellen Sailors (‘12), Graphic Design Artist Ted Harshbarger (‘77)

Peru Stater Fall 2013

Student Engagement Todd Simpson CFRE Executive Director Peru State College Foundation

Engagement has been the buzzword around Peru State for the last several years.

Administrators and faculty talk about engaging our students, engaging our community and engaging our alumni. Engagement is a key element of the Peru State Sesquicentennial Strategic Plan (which can be reviewed at http://www.peru.edu/ about/president.htm). And engagement is the cornerstone of the College’s new Institute for Community Engagement (ICE).

At Peru State, enhancing student engagement is about providing real-world experiences that better prepare students for success after graduation.

The mission of the Institute for Community Engagement is to foster a greater understanding of the leadership role students can play in community development by creating opportunities for students to engage with society and apply what they have learned in meaningful ways. Research shows that college students who participate in civic engagement learning activities not only earn higher grade point averages, but also have higher retention rates and are more likely to complete their college degree.

Some of Peru State’s engagement initiatives through the Institute for Community Engagement include: • An investigation of social norms marketing conducted by seventeen students

studying children’s health, activity and nutrition at Calvert Elementary School in Auburn.

• Last spring’s Sociology 395 Community Development class working with the City of Auburn to identify strengths and opportunities, and to establish a town vision statement and a logo.

• A History of Nebraska class conducting the historical research needed for the City of Auburn to apply to become recognized by the National Historic Registry.

Learning opportunities like these give Peru State students a competitive advantage when it comes time to interview for a job. A student who is able to share handson experience working with a local community will be much more attractive to potential employers.Peru State’s Institute for Community Engagement is just one more way the Campus of a Thousand Oaks is preparing students for future success.

Peru State invites you to engage with the College, by sharing a new idea, by stop-

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ping by the campus, by attending an alumni event, or just by keeping in touch. As an alumnus or friend of the College, you know how many wonderful opportunities Peru State offers to help our students learn and grow. With your engagement, through your advocacy, volunteer efforts and support, Peru State will continue to prepare students for the new challenges of a changing world.

Your support, through a gift to the annual fund, for example, or through an estate gift like one recently contributed by an alumnus, will help ensure programs like the Institute for Community Engagement continue to be available for students today and in the future.

Engagement continues to be the buzzword at Peru State. Engaged faculty; engaged students; engaged communities; and engaged alumni. Through our engagement, the College, and our students, will continue to prosper and grow.

2013 Alumni Events PSC Alumni Day in Brownville On August 10th, more than 60 alums ventured out to beautiful Brownville, Nebraska for Peru State Alumni Day. The afternoon was spent exploring Historic Brownville’s many shops and attractions.

A reception was held at Whiskey Run Creek Winery for all of the guests before they set out on the town in horse-drawn trolley rides. The event culminated with a dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Brownville.

New Student Move-In Day When the Fall 2013 Peru State freshman arrived on the Campus of a Thousand Left : Peru State College’s Alumni Relations Associate, Brooke Ashford, is all smiles as she serves chili to the eager Oaks, they were greeted by members of guests of the 2013 PSC Alumni Chili Feed. Right: Student Senate member, Jessica Johansen helps serve chili at the the National Alumni Association. Carlos Alumni Chili Feed. Johansen makes sure that PSC Professor, Dr. Dan Holtz doesn’t get away without dessert.

Harrison, Paul and Arlene Fell, Lee ArelMembers of the NAA Board will put Upcoming Events lano, and Kathy Kelley all stationed them- Alumni Receptions on their aprons to serve Chili and all the selves at dorm entrances and handed out The annual Lincoln Alumni RecepAcrobats, basketball and chili…that’s fixins’ to anyone in attendance at the cookies and refreshments, as well as some tion was held on December 5th at the Hi what you will get on February 15th in the games.

The chili feed will be located on inspiring words of advice to the incoming Mark Country Club. There are PSC Alum- Al Wheeler Activity Center when the Nathe East end of the AWAC and there will students and their families. ni Receptions held in different locations tional Alumni Association hosts its annual be a free will donation box to collect funds The NAA participates in Freshmen throughout the year, so if you couldn’t Alumni Chili Feed. Not only will you get for the Peru State College Foundation.

Move-In Day every year, so if you are a make it to Lincoln, keep an eye on the up- to watch the Bobcat basketball teams take PSC alum and would like to help welcome coming events on the Peru State College on the Missouri Valley College Vikings, the new students to campus, contact the National Alumni Association Facebook but during half-time of both the men and page for updates on all of the events. women’s games, you will be treated to a PSC Foundation at 402-872-2395. show by Gary’s Tumbling.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Peru State Student Earns 2013 Newman Civic Fellow Award Peru State senior Jamie Theye, a busi- Activity and Nutrition Community Enness, marketing and information technol- gagement (CHANCE) Initiative. The ogy major from Odell, Nebraska, has been CHANCE Initiative began in 2012 as honored by the Campus Compact as a 2013 a partnership with Calvert Elementary Newman Civic Fellow. The award honors School in Auburn focused on improving 181 student leaders from 36 states who children’s health through nutrition and exhave demonstrated a personal commit- ercise education. It has since grown to inment to find solutions for challenges fac- clude area middle school students. Theye’s ing communities throughout the country. work with the CHANCE Initiative has inThrough service, community-based cluded instructing weekly classroom activresearch, and advocacy, the 2013 class of ities, participating in community kick-off Newman Civic Fellows work to better events, helping lead a culminating event understand themselves, the root causes of for the first year, and giving presentations some of the country’s most pressing social locally, regionally and nationally. issues and effective mechanisms for creatSome of Theye’s other civic engageing lasting change. As these students tack- ment activities include serving as president le community challenges, they provide of Phi Beta Lambda and as treasurer and fresh energy and perspective, inspire and media officer for the Peru State Educamobilize others, and develop their own tion Association. She has served on many Peru State’s President, Dr. Dan Hanson and Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) advisor, skills and potential. committees that have had an impact on Dr. Shari Grotrian-Ryan, present Jamie Theye with the 2013 Newman Civic Newman Civic Fellow awards are the Peru State campus and the surround- Fellow Award. made in memory of Dr. Frank Newman, ing community, including working for the Campus Compact is a national coali- forge effective community/campus parta founder of Campus Compact, who dedi- Scholastic Book Fair, presenting at the tion of almost 1,200 college and university nerships, and provides resources and traincated his life to creating systemic change annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Bash, serving presidents who are committed to fulfilling ing for faculty seeking to integrate civic through education reform. At the core of project, and volunteering with commu- the public purposes of higher education. and community-based learning into the Dr. Newman’s leadership was a belief in nity programs such as Valentines for Vets, As the only national higher education as- curriculum. Campus Compact’s memberthe power of individuals to make a differ- Adopt-a-Highway and the Good Samari- sociation dedicated solely to campus-based ship includes public, private and two- and ence and in the power of connection with tan Center. civic engagement, Campus Compact pro- four-year institutions across the spectrum others.

The Newman Civic Fellow Awards are motes public and community service that of higher education. For more informaTheye’s honor is directly attributed made possible through the generous sup- develops students’ citizenship skills, helps tion, visit www.compact.org. to her work with the Children’s Health, port of the KPMG Foundation.

Beusing Selected to Represent Nebraska as Youth Ambassador

Allie Buesing

Peru State College sophomore, Allie Buesing, (Cozad, Nebraska) has been selected to represent Nebraska as a National Child Awareness Month Youth Ambassador by Youth Serve America and the Festival of Children Foundation.

Buesing, an exercise science major and business administration minor, is one of 51 Youth Ambassadors selected from a nationwide pool in a competitive application process. She will receive funding and training to lead a large-scale service initiative in an effort to combat childhood obesity in Nebraska.

In its sixth year, National Child Awareness Month is a program spearheaded by the Festival of Children Foundation to raise awareness about issues affecting children and encourages the nation’s youth to take action.

Ms. Beusing began working with the Children’s Health, Activity & Nutrition Community Engagement (CHANCE) Ini-

tiative as an AmeriCorps Service Scholar. tion), a Residence Life assistant, student Developed by Associate Professor of Edu- ambassador and AmeriCorps Services cation Dr. Kyle Ryan and Associate Profes- Scholar. She plans to apply for the Public sor of Business Dr. Sheri Grotrian-Ryan, Health Early Admittance Student Track the CHANCE Initiative is a grant-funded (PHEAST) at the University of Nebraska partnership between Peru State, Auburn Medical Center to pursue a Master’s dePublic Schools, Johnson-Brock Public gree in public health upon graduation from Schools, the Auburn Chamber of Com- Peru State. merce and Auburn Family Health Center, Buesing is part of a three-person team P.C. The goal is to encourage healthier life- who recently won a national championship styles among area children and their fami- at the PBL National Leadership Conferlies by creating awareness and educating ence in Anaheim, California. The competithem about better choices. tion focused on a wide range of business Her work as an ambassador has already and leadership-related tests, including begun having taken a trip to Washington, subjects ranging from financial analysis D.C., to meet with Nebraska U.S. Senator and economic concepts to human resource Mike Johanns where she attended leader- management and business ethics. Buesing ship training. and her counterparts won first place in Buesing serves as president for the the Community Service category for the Physical Education, Activity & Kinesiol- presentation The CHANCE (Children’s ogy Students (PEAKS) organization, and Health, Activity & Nutrition Community historian of Phi Beta Lambda (a state and Engagement) Initiative. national business and leadership associa-

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Amanda Volksen Wins Top Honor at Leadership Conference “We are proud to have had two PSEA members earn this national award in the past three years. It is a testament to the caliber of student enrolled in our teacher eduction program and the exceptional faculty who mentor them every day.”

Peru Student Education Association (PSEA) President-Elect Amanda Volksen, (Fort Calhoun) a junior early childhood and elementary education major, has been honored by the National Education Association (NEA) with the Jeffrey “J.D.” Miller Outstanding Underclassman Award at the organization’s National Student Leadership Conference in Atlanta.

Volksen received the same honor earlier this year from the Student Education Association of Nebraska (SEAN).

Associate Professor of Education and PSEA Advisor Dr. Judith Ruskamp said, “We are proud to have had two PSEA members earn this national award in the past three years. It is a testament to the caliber of students enrolled in our teacher education program and the exceptional faculty who mentor them every day. It’s exciting to see Amanda become so actively engaged in the PSEA organization, replicating the enthusiasm and passion for education of those who have come before her. We are very proud of her accomplishments.”

Volksen is a member of Peru’s Individual Leaders of Today (PILOT); the Physical Education, Activity & Kinesiology Students (PEAKS); vice president of Red Cross Club; chair of the annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Bash for PSEA; and organizer of Outreach to Teach at the Peru Daycare. She is a TeamMates Mentor, Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees Scholar and has been named to the Peru State Dean’s List.

Volksen is the daughter of Kelly and

Updates Around

Thomas Volksen of Fort Calhoun.

For additional information about the awards or PSEA, contact Ruskamp at jruskamp@peru.edu or 402-8722301.

Campus • Because of the student’s overwhelming feedback, the Bob Inn is now open for Bob@Nite on Thursdays. Friday will now offer brunch and dinner but continental breakfast will still be available between 9 and 11 a.m.

– Brunch will begin at 11 a.m.

• PSC is doing their part for the environment with tray-less dining in the Cafeteria. The new dining style will help the environment by preserving water resources, releasing fewer detergents, and reducing food waste.

Amanda Volksen

Peru State Criminal Justice Instructors, Students Win Honors at Regional American Criminal Justice Association Conference Two Peru State College criminal justice to the school that scores the most points the 26-35 age group.

Jacob Wiers, Senior (Pawnee City, students and their instructors won honors in relation to the number of members parat the Chapter of the American Criminal ticipating in the competition. Peru State Nebraska) Criminal Justice AdminisJustice Association - Lambda Alpha Epsi- had five students and two instructors par- tration Faculty participants included lon (ACJA-LAE) Regional Conference in ticipate.

Garden City, Kansas.

Students representing Peru State in the Criminal Justice Instructors Danny Hayes and Ronicka Schottel. Hayes and Students competed in written exami- competition: nations, a physical agility course and a Heather Black Eagle, Senior (Peru, Schottel won first place and second crime scene investigation scenario. They Nebraska) Criminal Justice Counseling & place, respectively, in the physical agilalso attended seminars by criminal justice Psychology- first place in the juvenile jus- ity course in the 26-35 age group. In professionals on topics such as homicide tice exam category for the upper division. the professional division, Hayes won Tairi Ferguson, Senior (Hamburg, second place in the police administrainvestigation - cadaver exploration, forensic wounds - moulage, interview and inter- Iowa) Criminal Justice Administration & tion exam, second place in Lambda Alpha Epsilon knowledge exam and third rogation, fingerprinting, critical decision Psychology Jacob Hedden, Senior ( Johnson, Ne- place in the corrections exam. making - firearms simulator, tactics and For more information about Peru entry techniques, CSI - evidence collec- braska) Criminal Justice Administration & State’s criminal justice program, conCounseling tion and trauma first aid.

Andrew Horn, Senior, (Verdon, Ne- tact Hayes at 402-872-2307 or dhayes@ Peru State’s Kappa Omicron Rho chapter took home the High Percentage braska) Criminal Justice Counseling- sec- peru.edu.

Sweepstakes Trophy, which is presented ond place in the physical agility course for

• The residence halls are now leaping in to the 21st century with new cable television and free laundry accommodations. The updates have been a welcome addition to Bobcat dorm life on the Campus of a Thousand Oaks.

• Additional weight lifting platforms in the fitness center have allowed for more access and diversity in the Bobcat fitness regime.

• The campus has also seen the much needed addition of new bike racks, so that more students have safe reliable places to store their bicycles.

• MyPSC is now mobile. Students can now check out the new mobile friendly version of myPSC to update their schedules, view their grades and register for classes through their mobile device. You can find the link on the front page of the Peru State website.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Student Spotlight: Rachel Henry A first year transfer student to Peru applied for and was awarded a $500 SoState, Rachel Henry (Auburn) is a sopho- dexo Foundation Youth Grant. One-hunmore business administration manage- dred grants of up to $500 were awarded by ment major and the daughter of Todd the Sodexo Foundation to youth-led projand Shawna Henry. Rachel has dedicated ects that aim to reduce childhood hunger countless hours to her many projects fo- in local communities throughout America. cused on improving the health and well- At the same time, grant winners educate being of southeast Nebraskans, and her and mobilize their peers around the isefforts have certainly not gone unnoticed. sue, expanding the pool of people actively In September, it was announced that searching for solutions to ending childRachel was accepted into the University of hood hunger.

Nebraska Medical Center‘s (UNMC) Pub“Feeding 44,” began with a small food lic Health Early Admissions Student Track drive in conjunction with Peru State’s In(PHEAST) program. stitute for Community Engagement (ICE) PHEAST is a cooperative program the week of April 22-27 to commemobetween the Nebraska State College Sys- rate Global Youth Service Day and raise Rachel Henry carries boxes of food in to the Al Wheeler Activity Center, for tem, UNMC’s College of Public Health awareness about childhood hunger. Now the “Feeding 44,” food pantry. Rachel is the driving force behind the creand the University of Nebraska at Kear- the monthly distribution supplies food to ation and implementation of, “Feeding 44.” ney. Its purpose is to create a pipeline and more than 75 families in Nemaha County. cadre of public health professionals who Henry said, “I plan to earn a Master’s team that placed first in the national Phi The CHANCE Initiative has been will practice in Nebraska. Once admit- degree in public health, so this project Beta Lambda (PBL) competition for their funded by Youth Serve America, Blue ted, PHEAST students can select one of has allowed me to explore the field on a presentation about Children’s Health, Ac- Cross/Blue Shield of Nebraska, and the 10 concentrations, including biostatistics, much larger scale than I had ever imag- tivity, & Nutrition Community Engage- Rural Futures Institute to further solidify community oriented primary care, envi- ined. The process of starting the Feeding ment (CHANCE) Initiative. the pre-existing partnerships between the ronmental and occupational health, epi- 44 initiative has taught me a lot about civic The CHANCE Initiative is a grant- campus and community. The CHANCE demiology or public health administration. involvement and reaching out to faculty funded partnership between Peru State, Initiative was also recognized at the state Students selected for the program and administrators. Working closely with Auburn Public Schools, the Auburn and national level as the community serpay no tuition and are assigned a mentor community members and service agen- Chamber of Commerce and Auburn Fam- vice project of the year by PBL, the world’s at the UNMC College of Public Health. cies to help people struggling to feed their ily Health Center, P.C. The longitudinal largest and oldest business student organiPHEAST students must maintain a 3.3 families is incredibly rewarding, and the service learning study seeks to provide zation. grade point average, have earned qualify- opportunity to take on a leadership role nutrition education and extracurricular Henry’s campus involvement includes ing scores on the ACT or SAT, and partici- at Peru State and in the community is a activities for elementary-aged children in membership in Club Council, Wellness pate in on-campus activities that enhance unique experience for which I am very an effort to address pediatric rural obesity. Coalition, CHANCE Initiative and Rotaleadership development and profession- grateful. I hope our efforts make a differ- The goal is to encourage healthier life- ract. She is vice-president of Peru State’s alism. Off-campus activities promoting ence in the lives of our Nemaha County styles among area children and their fami- chapter of PBL, as well as being active in leadership and professional development neighbors long into the future.” lies by creating awareness and educating the Physical Education, Activity & Kinesiare also encouraged.

Henry is also part of a three person them about better choices. ology Students (PEAKS) organization.

“I am passionate about helping others maintain good health and improve their overall well-being, whether it be through exercise and proper nutrition, ensuring adequate/sufficient nutrition and food availability, or simply raising awareness and educating the community on how to constantly better themselves and prevent potential health related issues. I’m excited about my career prospects and can’t wait to make a difference in the lives of people in my community.”

Rachel’s biggest project this year has been her establishment of the “Feeding 44” initiative. The initiative is a partnership with Peru State and the Food Bank of Lincoln and Catholic Social Services of Southeast Nebraska to create a rural mobile food distribution center for one of Nebraska’s most food insecure areas, Nemaha County.

Rachel started “Feeding 44,” when she Volunteers gather around to help unload the truck of food for the “Feeding 44,” distribution.

Peru Stater Fall 2013

Rural Health Opportunities Program Expanded “Peru State is proud to be a part of this prestigious program, which not only benefits our students but all of southeast Nebraska.”

care by UNMC. Peru State is proud to be a part of this prestigious program, which not only benefits our students but all of southeast Nebraska. The quality and strength of our science program and our faculty, as well as the support of area health care providers, have been instrumental in securing these nursing RHOP seats. We look forward to building an even stronger relationship with UNMC and bringing more RHOP seats in more health care fields to southeast Nebraska.”

Students must meet the following criteria to be accepted for admittance into the nursing RHOP: • Minimum 3.2 high school grade point average and score of 24 or higher on the ACT or 1270 or higher on the SAT.

Peru State College and the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) have expanded their partnership in the • Must be from a rural area defined Rural Health Opportunities Program as living outside an “Urbanized (RHOP) to include four seats in nursArea” as designated by the U.S. Cening. Peru State has offered three seats in sus Bureau (less than 50,000 people).

UNMC’s pharmacy program since 2012.

RHOP, which began in 1989, is de• Graduate of a Nebraska High signed to address the special needs of School. rural Nebraska by encouraging rural resi• Committed to practicing in rural dents to pursue health care careers.

The agreement between the colleges Nebraska. will allow up to two eligible students to be accepted into the Lincoln division of the If selected, students will receive a full tuUNMC College of Nursing and up to two ition waiver while enrolled at Peru State in the Omaha Division for a total of four and acceptance into the UNMC College of Nursing. Students also must maintain a students annually.

President Dan Hanson said, “The minimum 3.5 grade point average.

Rural Health Opportunities Program is For more information about the RHOP an important commitment to rural health program, visit www.unmc.edu/rhop.

Peru State Honored with Governor’s Workplace Wellness Award Peru State College is one of 50 Ne- award included the level of support for the braska employers honored for successful program by company leaders, assessment workplace wellness programs. of employee needs, wellness plan design, “These awards recognize employers for outcomes and benefits and policies suptheir serious commitment to employee porting healthy behaviors. Wellness prowell-being,” Gov. Heineman said. “Pre- grams typically provide employees with vention and wellness efforts in the work- health education, health screenings and place have produced higher productivity, opportunities for exercise better employee satisfaction and helped Nebraska’s workplace wellness procontrol healthcare costs. Wellness works gram offers two categories. The Grower every time and these programs are helping Award division honors businesses and ormore Nebraskans lead healthier lives.” ganizations demonstrating significant imThe award was created to recognize provement in employee health behaviors, Nebraska employers that have developed while the Sower Award division recognizsuccessful models for encouraging well- es workplaces with quality wellness proness at work. Factors considered for the grams. Peru State received a Sower Award.

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Institute for Community Engagement Launches International Travel The Institute for Community Engagement (ICE) is launching international travel in 2014. Spring trips are scheduled to the Dominican Republic and Europe. In March 2014 students can travel to the Dominican Republic to participate in service learning experiences, and in May, students have the option of studying the business practices and culture of Europe.

Each trip will allow students to customize their academic credits so that either trip could count towards general studies and/or academic major requirements.

The ICE web page gives four reasons from Vistawide.com why students should study abroad: • Study abroad enhances employment opportunities. Only 4% of U.S. undergraduates ever study abroad. Through an employer’s eyes, a student who has studied abroad is self-motivated, independent, willing to embrace challenges and able to cope with diverse problems and situations.

• Study abroad will help develop skills and give experiences a classroom setting will never provide. Being immersed in an entirely new cultural setting is scary at first, but it’s also ex-

citing. It’s an opportunity to discover new strengths and abilities, conquer new challenges and solve new problems.

• Study abroad helps you to learn about yourself. Students who study abroad return home with new ideas and perspectives about themselves and their own culture. The experience may perhaps strengthen those values or it may cause students to alter or abandon them and embrace new concepts and perceptions. The encounter with other cultures enables students to see their own culture through new eyes.

• Study abroad expands world-view.

In comparison with citizens of most other countries, Americans tend to be uninformed about the world beyond the nation’s boundaries. Students who study abroad return home with an informed and much less biased perspective toward other cultures and peoples.

ICE has partnered with Education First, one of the world leaders in International Education, (http://www. ef.com/us-home/) to help arrange trips. For more information on the Institute for Community Engagement or the Study Abroad program, contact ICE Director, Julie Taylor-Costello.

Peru State President Dan Hanson Professor of Health and Physical Educasaid, “I want to thank Governor Heine- tion Dr. Ellie Kunkel, the Wellness Coaliman and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joe tion seeks to educate the campus commuAcierno for recognizing Peru State’s com- nity about ways to live healthy lifestyles. mitment to healthy living for our employ- Under Kunkel’s leadership as chair, the ees. Our enthusiasm for educating others coalition established an annual Health about health and wellness doesn’t stop on and Wellness Fair, a collaborative effort campus. Through a variety of faculty-led between students in the college’s health/ and student-led initiatives, members of physical education and sport/exercise sciour campus community are reaching out ence programs and area healthcare proto southeast Nebraskans in an effort to fessionals. Throughout the semester, stucombat childhood obesity, bolster blood dents involved in the initiative select an bank donations, feed the hungry – the list area of health and wellness for which to goes on. I look forward to continuing to advocate, conduct research and develop engage our surrounding communities in informational booths that are both eduthese and more initiatives.” cational and interactive. Some of the topPeru State is a member of the Employ- ics have focused on healthy eating habits, ee Health Alliance (EHA). Additionally, drug abuse, stress and suicide, secondthe campus established a Wellness Coali- hand smoke, artificial energy and more. tion in 2011.

The brainchild of Peru State Associate

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Five Inducted in to Athletic Hall of Fame 2013 marked the biennial induction in to the Peru State College Athletic Hall of Fame. Five individuals were selected for this esteemed honor. The inductees were nominated for excelling in different aspects of their respective sports, but all showed strength and commitment to Bobcat athletics, and will forever be remembered in Bobcat history.

Bonnie (Rutz) Carlile:, (Meritorious Service) considered the modern-day founder of women’s athletics, re-started intercollegiate athletics for women at Peru State College and coached the volleyball team. In addition, Carlile secured coaches and started the women’s basketball and softball programs. While coaching the Bobkittens volleyball team, she started and promoted intercollegiate volleyball in Nebraska by organizing a group of referees with money from concessions to work area high school volleyball games. Carlile also organized the annual volleyball tournament held at PSC and expanded it. The tournament reached 40 teams by the 25th year and it was the longest-running high school tournament in Nebraska at the time.

Tamir (Anderson) Riley: ’94, (Basketball) a 6’1” forward/center from Omaha, Nebraska. Riley was the seventh player in Peru State college history to reach the 1000-point plateau. She was named ’93-’94

President Dan Hanson, Bonnie Rutz Carlile, First Lady Elaine Hanson, Shari Paczosa Kucera, Brad Smith, Tamir Anderson Riley, Chuck Mizerski

First Team All-District basketball player, College. and First Team All-American by the NAAs a coach, Chuck replaced Frank SoIA’s Division II selection committee. This lich, in 1979, at Lincoln Southeast. He made Riley the first woman in the Col- oversaw a football powerhouse at Lincoln lege’s history chosen to the All-American Southeast from 1979 to 2006. In that time, first or second teams. the Knights won 230 games, six state As a senior, Riley led the NAIA Mid- championships, and three state runnerwest Region in field goals and free throws. up trophies. Before coaching at Lincoln Through 17 games, she made 127 of 217 Southeast, Mizerski coached in Plattsshots for 58.5% accuracy, and 37 of 44 free mouth and Granite City, Illinois, compilthrows for 84.1% accuracy. In addition, ing a combined 274-81-1 record. His teams Tamir was third overall in scoring with were always well prepared, competed with 17.1 points per game average. At the end of great intensity, and exhibited the highest her career, Riley was named to the Omaha levels of sportsmanship. Six of his players World Herald’s All NAIA women’s team went on to play in the National Football and she was honored on the Lincoln Jour- League. nal Star’s All-State College First Team.

Mizerski earned nominations twice for Chuck Mizerski: ’69, (Football) As a the National Coach of the Year honors. student-athlete, Mizerski was a four year, He also coached in two Nebraska Shrine two-way starter at tackle for Peru State Bowls and earned Coach of the Year recognition from three Nebraska media Outlets. In 2011, Mizerski was inducted into the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame.

Shari (Paczosa) Kucera: ’85, (Cross Country/Indoor and Outdoor Track/ Cheerleading) While at Peru State College, Kucera set several individual and relay team records. Some of the records include: Indoor 500-meter run in 1:23.61, indoor 800-meter run in 2:19.63, and outdoor 3200-meter relay. During all four years, Shari qualified for the NAIA Nationals in Indoor Track in the 800-meter run. In 1984, her team placed seventh at the NAIA National Indoor Meet in the two-mile relay with a time of 9:52.39.

Since graduation from Peru State, Shari has continued to run and has conPSC Hall of Famers and former educators, Dr. Wayne Davidson and Louis Fritz tinued winning at all levels of competition, enjoy reminiscing with each other at the 2013 Hall of Fame Banquet.

from the Omaha Corporate Cup to USA Masters Track and Field competitions.

At the end of the 2009 season, Kucera’s 5,000-meter time was the top time in the United States for her age division.

Brad Smith: ‘89, (Football) an offensive lineman at Peru State College. Smith became the first lineman to receive back-toback All-American recognition as a Bobcat. During his time at Peru State, Brad started 29 of 30 games for the Bobcats.

Smith earned NAIA Division II AllAmerican Second Team honors in 1987 and NAIA Division II First Team honors in 1988. In addition, he earned Tri-State Athletic All-Conference Team honors.

After graduating from PSC, Smith played professionally for the Pittsburgh Gladiators in the Arena Football League.

The Hall of Fame weekend kicked off on October 14th, with a formal reception and banquet with over 100 guests attending. Each of the inductees was given a replica of the plaque that will hang in the Al Wheeler Activity Center (AWAC) in honor of their induction.

On Saturday, October 15th, during half-time of the Peru State football game, a brief ceremony was held to officially induct the newest members of the Athletic Hall of Fame.

If you know someone that you would like to nominate for the Athletic Hall of Fame, please visit the Peru State College Athletics home page at http://www.pscbobcats.com/ for a link to print a nomination form. The next induction will be held in 2015.

Peru Stater Fall 2013

2012 - 2013 Swenson Award Winners Preston Bruss (Bennet, Nebraska) and Emily Maresh (Central City, Nebraska) were recognized as the 2012-13 Bert Swenson award recipients. The awards were announced at halftime of the Peru State College (PSC) football game against Dakota State University.

Each year since 1925, outstanding student athletes have been presented with the Bert Swenson award in recognition of their participation in athletics, outstanding character, personality, service and loyalty to Peru State College. The award

was created in memory of Bert and Stella Swenson’s 13-month old son, Bert Jr. One female and one male studentathlete receive the Swenson award each year. The winners are nominated by their head coaches and then selected by the Peru State College athletic department through secret ballot. The winners are each presented with a watch provided by the Swenson family through the PSC foundation.

Bruss is a 2008 graduate of Palmyra High School and is the son of John and

Lori Bruss. Last December, Preston graduated from Peru State with a degree in criminal justice - administration with a minor in business.

Emily Maresh is a 2009 graduate of Central City High School and is the daughter of Gary and Lisa Maresh. In December, Emily will graduate with honors from Peru State with a degree in K-12 health and physical education and a minor in business administration.

Maresh presently serves as a Bobcat assistant softball coach.

Peru State in Top Third of Champions of Character Since 1937, the NAIA has adminisThe Peru State athletic department card listing. The 77 points puts Peru was recognized by the National Associa- State as the fourth-highest institution in tered programs and championships in tion of Intercollegiate Athletes (NAIA) the Heart of America Athletic Confer- proper balance with the overall educaon the Champions of Character Five-Star ence (HAAC) and third among the NAIA tional experience. In 2000, the NAIA schools in the state of Nebraska. reaffirmed its purpose to enhance the Institution list.

Peru State athletic director Steve character-building aspects of sports.

The Champions of Character Scorecard measures each institution’s commit- Schneider stated, “Over the past few Through the Champions of Character ment to the NAIA Champions of Charac- years, our student-athletes, coaches, and program, the NAIA seeks to create an ter program. Points are earned in five key the entire department have supported the environment in which every studentareas: character training, conduct in com- Champions of Character program. There athlete, coach, official and spectator is petition, character recognition, academic is a commitment to striving to achieve committed to the true spirit of compethe status each year. Part of the direction tition through five core values: integrity, focus and character promotion.

This year, Peru State scored 77 points of how we, as a department, achieve this respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and was in the top third of all institutions recognition is through our Student-Ath- and servant leadership. by placing in a tie for 63rd in the score- lete Advisory Council (SAAC).”

President Dan Hanson, Bonnie Rutz Carlile, First Lady Elaine Hanson, Shari Paczosa Kucera, Brad Smith, Tamir Anderson Riley, Chuck Mizerski

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Bobcat Buzz Luncheon The Bobcat Athletic Department and Peru State professional staff/senate have begun hosting “Bobcat Buzz Luncheons” in the Live Oak Room of the Student Center.

The luncheons allow head coaches to give a short update about their program to the campus community, including studentathletes, recruiting, and upcoming events.

Each luncheon will spotlight a different, non-athletic department on campus.

The first spotlight was on the Peru State Theater Department. Josh Young, Assistant Professor of Communications Arts, gave a brief look in to all of the things happening in the theatre and their upcoming productions.

Future Bobcat Buzz Luncheons are planned for February 5th, and April 9th, in the Live Oak Room of the Student Center from 12:00-12:50 p.m. Guests are invited to buy or bring their lunch and desserts will be provided by professional staff/ senate.

This is a great opportunity for the Peru State campus community to be engaged not only in athletics but in other department’s successes and upcoming events.

Four Peru State Athletic Programs Named NAIA Scholar-Teams The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has announced that four Peru State athletic teams have been named 2012-13 NAIA ScholarTeams.

Earning the Scholar-Team designation for the 2012-13 academic year were the Bobcats’ women’s cross country, women’s golf, softball, and volleyball teams. The Bobcat volleyball team had the highest grade point average among the athletic programs finishing with a 3.51 grade point average (gpa). The golf team finished with a 3.39 gpa, the softball team completed the year with a 3.16 gpa, while the cross country team earned their honor by finishing with a 3.05 gpa.

For a team to be considered for the NAIA Scholar-Team award, it must have a minimum 3.0 grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale) as defined by the institution.

The team grade-point average includes all eligible varsity student-athletes.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Peru State Volleyball Earns Team Academic Award

2013 Bobcat Football Season Wrap Up

The American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) announced that the Peru State volleyball team was among 622 teams to earn the AVCA Team Academic Award for the 2012-2013 season. This number once again breaks the previous year’s total of 536 and sets a new all-time high for this award.

The award, which was initiated in the 1992-93 academic year, honors collegiate and high school volleyball teams that displayed excellence in the classroom during the school year by maintaining at least a 3.30 cumulative team grade-point average on a 4.0 scale or a 4.10 cumulative team GPA on a 5.0 scale.

Coach Steve Schneider watches as his team tries out the Oak Bowl’s new turf.

Bobcat Women’s Golf 2012-2013 Season The Bobcat Women’s Golf team finished their 2012-2013 season in fourth place, in the 2013 Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) Tournament.

The highlight of the ’12-’13 season was when Senior golf captain, Jordan Schaardt (Humboldt) was crowned the HAAC medalist after a sudden death playoff. By winning the HAAC Championship individual title, Schaardt received an automatic bid to play in the NAIA National Championship held at Wilderness Ridge golf course in Lincoln, Nebraska. Schaardt finished in a tie for 99th in the national tournament having a three-day total of 254.

Following the HAAC championship tournament, two Bobcat golfers, Schaardt and Courtney Musgrave (Omaha, Nebraska) were tabbed as HAAC All-Conference selections. For both golfers, this was their second year in a row receiving all-conference honors. In addition, Schaardt was named to the all-tournament team as well.

Two Bobcat golfers received academic recognition; Schaardt and Katie Potter (Omaha, Nebraska) were selected as Capital One Academic All-District 6 First Team. Their selection to the all-district team allowed Schaardt and Potter to be in consideration for All-America honors.

Schaardt was named as a 2013 Capital One Academic All-America First Team selection while Potter earned third team honors. In addition, both were chosen as Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

The 2013 season marked a banner coaching staff, Schneider tordinators Lou year for the Bobcat football team in Varley and Peru State alum and member the Heart of America Athletic Con- of the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame, ference (HAAC). With more than 60 Chuck Mizerski. Derek Derr, a 2010 Peru returning lettermen and 60 newcom- State graduate and a four-year letter winers, the Bobcats had their best record ner for the Bobcats, will be responsible for since 2009, finishing the season with the outside linebackers. Other defensive a 7-4 overall record and 5-4 record in coaches include Jeff Reed, Brian Maher the conference. and David Gregory.

Head Coach Steve Schneider looked On offense, Schneider continued his at his second year leading the Bobcats role as offensive coordinator with assisas an opportunity to make some noise tance from coaches Andrew Kohls, Doug in the conference. With some newcom- Lanik and Marc Randle. The football ers and several familiar faces on the graduate assistants are Bill Chaffin and

Jared Olive.

Due to the construction on the historic Oak Bowl, the Bobcats played their home games in Peru’s surrounding communities. The team played two home games in Auburn, two in Nebraska City and the final two were held in Falls City.

For the first time since the 2005 season, the Peru State Bobcats cracked the NAIA Football Coaches’ Top 25 Poll.

Throughout the season the Bobcat’s ranking rose all the way to number 9, but after some tough losses, they finished the season at 24th.

Boshart Wins the NAIA A.O. Duer Award

Mitch Boshart

In May, 2013 The National As- Council of Faculty Athletics Representasociation of Intercollegiate Athletics tives selects the two winners, one male (NAIA) named PSC’s Mitch Boshart and one female. Both winners this year as the male winner of the Duer award. were nominated by the Heart of America Boshart is a student-athlete and social Athletic Conference (HAAC). science education major from Central This is the first time in PSC history City, Nebraska. that a Bobcat has won the Duer Award.

The award is named for A.O. Duer, Boshart is a Peru State Board of Trustees who served as executive secretary of scholar, a member of the college’s honors the NAIA for 26 years and was well program and a Daktronics-NAIA Scholarknown for his strong opinions that Athlete award winner. He is also the threethe NAIA and its member institutions year letter winner and has been a two-year should strive to effectively balance starter on special teams, and a Bobcat Footacademics and athletics. The award is ball Elite Team Leader. Boshart serves as presented to an outstanding NAIA ju- a TeamMates mentor and as the sports innior student-athlete who maintains an formation department’s radio interviewer overall grade-point average of at least in conjunction with KNCY’s Bobcat Buzz a 3.75 (on a 4-point scale). The NAIA pre-recorded halftime segments.

Peru Stater Fall 2013

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2013 Bobcat Women’s Softball Season The 2013 women’s softball team had a roller coaster season, filled with close losses and exciting wins. The Bobcats ended their regular season with a win loss record of 15-26.

The women earned a 9-9 record and finished fifth place in the Heart of America Athletic Conference, (HAAC) gaining them a spot in the post-season tournament.

Mother Nature caused the first two days of the tournament to be cancelled forcing the tournament to move from double elimination format to single elimination. When the Bobcats were finally able to play, Evangel University defeated them 12-0, knocking them out of the tournament.

Two Bobcats ended the season ranked in the top 50 in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletes (NAIA) Division I national rankings. Laruen Johnson (Seward, Nebraska) is currently ranked 30th in walks allowed per nine innings (1.35). Junior, Devon Massengale, (Elkhorn, Nebraska) currently ranks 31st in innings pitched per game (5.926). The team is currently ranked 46th in triples per game (0.244).

Several Bobcat Players moved into the Peru State Softball record books this season. Emily Maresh (Central City, Nebraska) ended her career tied for fourth all time in career home runs (20), fifth in career RBI (112), eighth in career batting average (.354), ninth in career doubles (32), and tied tenth in career hits (151).

Kristin Bodyk (Paris, Ontario, Canada)

set one single season record and is in the career top ten record books for two categories. She is now tied for tenth in Peru State history for most home runs in a season as she hit six this season. Career-wise, Bodyk is ranked seventh in career home runs (14), and tenth in career doubles (31).

Massengale is now ranked in four Peru State career pitching categories. She ranks

third in career innings pitched (419.0), third in career strikeouts (261), fifth in career victories (35), and sixth in career complete games (37).

With 11 returning players and 15 new recruits, for 2014, the Bobcats are looking forward to a successful season ahead.

2012-13 Bobcat Baseball Season

Senior catcher, Jake Wright, received 2013 Omaha World Herald All-Nebraska NAIA Baseball Honorable Mention, 2013 HAAC All-Conference 1st Team.

Reigning as the Heart of America Ath- enough for a first place finish in the Westletic Conference (HAAC) post-season ern Division and a second place finish champs, the Bobcat baseball team had their overall in the HAAC. With the conclusion of the season, a sights set on repeating their triumph in the 2012-2013 season. Unfortunately, that was few Bobcat players were able to make their not the case. After going 1-1 in the HAAC mark in the Peru State record books. Ryan tourney, and being in the running to get Grabowski (Omaha, Nebraska) now ranks a bid into the national NAIA tournament, ninth all time in Peru State history in highcold and wet conditions caused the HAAC est on-base percentage in a single season administrators to cancel the tournament. (.474). He also is tied for second in career This put Central Methodist University and batting average (.398). Tyler Croushorn Avila University into the NAIA national (Omaha, Nebraska) is tied for tenth in catournament, as they were both 2-0 in the reer triples (5). Aubrey Dezarn (Las Vegas, Nevada) is tied for third in single season HAAC tourney at that point.

The Bobcats still had an outstanding triples (4).

The ‘Cats once again look to be a season finishing with a 27-16 record. The team finished the regular season on a 13 strong team in the HAAC and NAIA in game winning streak giving them a con- the 2013-2014 season. ference record of 18-8, which was good

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

nology until her retirement in 1995.

1930s Geneva (Ullsperger, ’31) Pratt of Utica passed away December 20, 2012. She and her husband, Elvo, had their own business, a grocery store, cream station and feed store for 40 years in Cook. Geneva enjoyed working in the grocery store, square dancing, ceramics and textile painting. She especially enjoyed family activities.

Charles Stites (’31) of La Habra, California passed away July 11, 2007.

Gladys Kruse (’34) of Syracuse passed away April 16, 2013. She taught in rural schools for 45 years. After retirement she enjoyed doing volunteer work at the museum, traveling, knitting, needlepoint and china painting.

1940s Marcella “Sally” (Schaefer, ’42) of St. Edward passed away July 14, 2013. She taught at Cedar Rapids for over 50 years. In 1992, she retired from teaching but continued to substitute at Cedar Rapids for 10 more years.

Winnie (Buman, ’49) Krontz of Tecumseh passed away on December 25, 2012. She worked for the Campbell Soup Company for 26 years, retiring in 1991. Winnie had a positive attitude and found good in every situation. She was always finding ways to help family and friends and put their needs above her own.

1950s

Jack Pennington (’58) of Humboldt passed away July 26, 2013. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served his country from 1951 until 1955 when he was honorably discharged. Following his service, he moved back to Nebraska and began his teaching career.

1960s Raymond Plankinton (’61) of Columbus passed away May 3, 2013.

Ray taught mathematics for 25 years at Platte Community College before his retirement. During his teaching career, he was honored by his students as Teacher of the Year and Platte Person of the Year.

Zelda Elaine Current (’66) of Stockville passed away July 31, 2013.

She taught grade school for 29 years and then went back to college for her massage therapy license. She worked as a massage therapist for 15 years in McCook.

Marjorie (Williss, ’69) Borgerding of Lincoln passed away August 7, 2013. She served as an English teacher, restaurant owner and lover of breweriana and other collectibles.

1970s Vesta (Bletscher, ’70) Linderman of Falls City passed away September 10, 2013. She was a member of the Bethel United Methodist Church, which she joined in 1933 and was an active member her entire life.

Mildred Marguerite (Mackoy, ’71) Teachout of Shenandoah, Iowa passed away May 9, 2013. As a teacher, she enjoyed challenging her students and made learning a priority. Marguerite took ordinary items and transformed them into teaching tools.

Dolores (Porr, ’50) Painter of Casper, Wyoming passed away January 27, 2013. She taught elementary and 9th grade English for over 40 years. After her retirement she took up another job of teaching calligraphy and retired again at the age of 80.

Betty Kathleen “Kathy” (Cummings, ’78) of Plattsmouth passed away April 23, 2013. She was a loving and devoted special education teacher, teaching both junior high and high school.

Lawrence Webb (’51) of Geneva passed away on August 2, 2013. He was drafted into the Army following his graduation from PSC. Lawrence started as a cryptography specialist and rose to the rank of Sergeant with an honorable discharge in November 1953.

Paula (Kite, ’82) Winkelman of Auburn passed away August 27, 2013.

She enjoyed journalism and photography and pursued both interests professionally and as hobbies.

Doyle Gump (’52) of Lincoln passed away November 7, 2012. He entered the Navy during World War II where he served in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.

Curtis Lindell (’54) of Omaha passed away March 15, 2013. Curt was proud when his championship Peru State College football team was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame. Since retiring, he enjoyed extensive traveling and spending the last 19 winters in Arizona.

Geraldine (Corn, ’55) Allen of Marine City, Michigan passed away April 13, 2013. She worked within the East China School District for 39 years as a teacher and 15 years as a principal. Geraldine retired in 1994.

Dolores (Smith, ’55) Stoltenberg of Lincoln, formerly of Rock Port, Missouri, passed away April 12, 2013. Dolores loved her family and enjoyed playing bridge and making jewelry.

Ruby Anna Emma (Mueller, ’56) Heinke of Bennet passed away April 13, 2013. Ruby served as the executive vice president of Heinke Tech-

1980s

2000s Connie Folsom (’01) of Bellevue passed away April 27, 2013. She was a dedicated teacher with the Bellevue Public School system for 28 years.

Robert McKim (’06) of Aldie, Virginia passed away April 20, 2013. He joined the U.S. Government as an investigator and his career advancement included two tours in the Middle East and most recently as a Special Investigator in Virginia/Washington D.C. Rob was an accomplished student, musician and athlete.

Friends Kathryn Bartek of Falls City passed away June 23, 2013. Kathy was a former nurse at Peru State College. She was serving her seventh term on the District 56 school board, a total of over 25 years of service. Kathy earned the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association School Board Member of the Year in 2013.

Continued on top of next page...

Peru Stater Fall 2013 Dr. James Pilkington of Ozark, Missouri passed away March 6, 2013.

Dr. Pilkington was a former PSC professor and coach. He also coached and taught at Central Missouri State University for 29 years. He started the Mule Relays and the women’s track and field program which produced many NCAA All American athletes and several Olympic prospects.

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Jeremy Kirkendall (’09) of Nebraska City is now the curator of the Kregel Windmill Factory museum in Nebraska City. The Factory had closed down in 1991, but reopened in April 2013.

Leslie Fattig (’11) has been named executive director of the Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation. She will oversee the foundation’s operations and fundraising effforts.

Megan Boyle (’12), originally from Plattsmouth, is the new K-12 Art instructor at West Holt Public Schools.

1940s Josephine (Citta, attended ’41) Godown and her husband, Leonard, celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary on July 3, 2013.

1950s Charles Smith (’51) of Murrieta, California was nominated for and awarded the California Wrestling Federation Life-Time Service Award in 2013. He was given this award for his contribution to the sport of wrestling as a coach and contributor promoting the California Wrestling Federation.

Phil Fahrlender (’59) of Minden won “Best of Show” for his paintings “Origins” at the 2013 Kearney Art Guild Exhibit. His wife, Nadine (Adcock, ’59), had a cast iron sculpture, “Approaching Congruity,” featured in an article in the Kearney Hub in April 2013.

1970s

Mallory Lempka (’12) of Cook is the Nemaha County deputy assessor.

She helps with homestead exemptions, personal property tax, real estate tax and valuations.

Friends John Chaney of Auburn was appointed by Governor Dave Heineman to serve on the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees.

Jay Johnson (’07) and Jordan Rieker were united in marriage on June 1, 2013.

Daniel Ross and Jacklyn Martinez (’10) were united in marriage on September 28, 2013. Jacklyn is employed at Lortscher Animal Nutrition.

Daniel is employed at MAC Process.

William Peterson (’72) will be retiring on December 29, 2013. He is retiring from his position as a United States Immigration Judge. William joined the U.S. Department of Justice as a trial attorney in 1988. From 1995 until 2000, he served as Deputy District Counsel for the INS in San Francisco. In 2000, William was appointed to the bench in New York by the Attorney General at that time, Janet Reno.

Arthur Rose (’11) and Emily Holmes were united in marriage on August 10, 2013. Emily is a kindergarten teacher at Gering Public Schools. Arthur is a special education teacher at Gering Public Schools.

1980s Jeff Slagle (’86) serves as legal counsel for the Air Force Safety Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Miles Koso (’11) and Kaylie Frederick (’11) were united in marriage on September 21, 2013. Kayle works at Marvin E. Jewell & Co. in Lincoln.

Miles is employed by Commercials Investment Properties.

Brent Yaw (’88) of Kearney has been promoted to vice president, international at Baldwin Filters. He will be responsible for the operation of Baldwin’s international business.

Madison Farris (’12) and Rebecca Boshart (’13) were united in marriage on June 29, 2013. Rebecca just finished her student teaching.

Madison is teaching at Aurora Middle School.

1990s

Andrew Driever (’12) and Carrie Vanderbeek were united in marriage on June 29, 2013. Andrew is employed with the State of Nebraska Department of Corrections. Carrie is currently a student at PSC and will be student teaching in the spring.

Dr. Joel Bohlken (’92) of Palmer is the new Superintendent/Principal at Palmer Public Schools.

Clayton Waddle (’99) of Stapleton has been hired to be a halftime superintendent and halftime 7-12 principal at Stapleton Public Schools.

Nathan Soto and Julia Simon (’11) were united in marriage on May 25, 2013. Julia is a fifth grade teacher for Elkhorn Public Schools. Nathan is currently a brand logistics manager for the GAP.

2000s Rebecca (Schlamann, ’01) Slick of Beresford, South Dakota is the new Registrar at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa.

Ryan Odle (’06) of Spokane, Washington enlisted in the U.S. Air Force a couple of years after college and was in the USAF for just over four years doing one tour in Iraq and getting out as a Staff Sergeant. Ryan now works for Kelly Brady Advertising and helps do interactive advertising for colleges.

Kristin (Delaney, ’06) Tynon of Syracuse has been promoted to manager with BKD’s Nebraska practice unit.

2000s Shane (’08) and Danielle (Metzler, ’08) Ryan welcomed their third child, Charlotte Elise, on May 24, 2013. She weighed 9 pounds 4 ounces and was 21 inches long. She joined big sister, Addison (3) and big brother, Jackson (1).

Trent (’08) and Kayleigh (Baker, ’09) Whisler of Auburn announced the birth of their son, Elliott Jerald, on December 14, 2011. He weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces and was 21 inches long.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Grotrian-Ryan Earns 2013 Teacher Excellence Award

Ted Harshbarger Elected to National FBLA-PBL Board of Directors

Peru State Associate Professor of Business, Dr. Sheri Grotrian-Ryan has been named the institution’s 2013 Teacher Excellence Award Winner.

The Teacher Excellence Award is given annually to one outstanding full-time faculty member at each of the three state colleges, Peru, Wayne and Chadron. To be considered, a faculty member must have a minimum of four years consecutive employment at the college, have taught a minimum of 15 credit hours during the previous academic year, and have an active and Dr. Sheri accepting her award at from Dr. Hanson at the May, 2013 Graduation positive record of service to students as an academic, professional or personal advisor. Advisor of the Year. a peer reviewer for textbooks and journal Candidates must also have demonstrated Grotrian-Ryan led and assisted several manuscripts. Her experience has further involvement in faculty development pro- community engagement and service-learn- been demonstrated by the multiple pregrams, a superior level of teaching effec- ing efforts during her tenure at the college. sentations and workshops given on a vativeness and a record of public service.

One such notable project is the ongoing riety of topics across the nation.

Recipients of the campus award from CHANCE (Children’s Health, Activity & Grotrian-Ryan earned a Bachelor’s each of the colleges are finalists for the Nutrition Community Engagement) Initia- degree from Peru State in business adNebraska State College System’s George tive. She serves as co-director of this inter- ministration with an emphasis in marRebensdorf Teaching Excellence Award. disciplinary, longitudinal endeavor and is keting and management before continuGrotrian-Ryan joined the Peru State instrumental in introducing a social norms ing her education at the University of faculty in 2006. She currently instructs marketing campaign to area youth.

Nebraska - Lincoln where she earned courses in the School of Professional StudOutside of teaching, Grotrian-Ryan has an MBA with a focus in strategic manies and Graduate Programs. In addition to served as managing editor for the Human agement. Most recently, Grotrian-Ryan teaching, Grotrian-Ryan serves as faculty Resource Development Review journal, a completed a Ph.D. at the University of advisor for Phi Beta Lambda, a business global publication devoted to theoretical Nebraska - Lincoln. For her dissertaand leadership organization. Under her insights advancing the understanding of tion, Grotrian-Ryan researched the conmentorship, Phi Beta Lambda students human resource development. She has also cept of mentoring and its application to continue to excel in intercollegiate compe- assisted with the publication of the Na- leadership development; the study was titions at both the state and national levels, tional Council of Instructional Adminis- conducted with the American Council earning five national championships in the trators’ Exemplary Initiatives. Additionally, on Education Fellows Program in Washlast two years. Grotrian-Ryan is a two-time Grotrian-Ryan has spent extensive time as ington, D.C. honoree as Nebraska’s Phi Beta Lambda

Seay Appointed to Professional Practices Commission Peru State’s Darolyn Seay, M.Ed., School of Education, has been appointed

by Gov. Dave Heineman to the Nebraska Professional Practices Commission.

The Professional Practices Commission holds hearings and makes recommendations to the State Board of Education concerning alleged violations of standards or professional ethics and practices by holders of public schools certificates. Seay will serve a three-year term and is eligible for reappointment for one additional term.

Seay, a native of Edmond, Okla., joined the Peru State faculty in 2008 where she serves as an undergraduate student advisor and teaches courses in educational psychology, teacher education-principles and prac-

tices and teaching science in elementary and non-traditional students, and worked middle schools. She represents the college as an adjunct instructor for Northwestat both the state and regional level, particu- ern Oklahoma State University teaching larly in the areas of elementary education, classes in the educational psychology guidance and counseling. Seay is an active field while serving as a student teacher community volunteer, currently serving supervisor. as vice-president for Project Response, an Seay earned a Bachelor’s degree in organization that provides free services to elementary education and a Master’s dedomestic abuse and sexual assault victims. gree in education - guidance and counPrior to joining the Peru State faculty, seling from the University of Central Seay taught grades two, four and five, as Oklahoma. Seay is currently a doctoral well as middle school language arts and candidate at North Central University reading, for 13 years at Putnam City and and contributes research in the area of Edmond Public School Districts in Okla- Teacher Dispositions: A Study of Prohoma. She also taught classes for the Uni- cesses Used and Potential Outcomes versity of Phoenix’s on-campus site in Anticipated by Accredited Institutions Oklahoma City, working primarily with When Assessing Teacher Candidates.

Ted Harshbarger, Associate Athletic Director/Sports Information Director at Peru State College, has been elected to the Future Business Leaders of AmericaPhi Beta Lambda (FBLA-PBL) National Board of Directors for a three-year term.

Harshbarger began his involvement in the association in 1974 as a PBL member at Peru State College. Since then, he has served the organization actively in numerous capacities including his current role as the Nebraska PBL State Adviser, a position he’s held since 1997. He also served on the FBLA-PBL National Awards Committee for nine consecutive years, and was the Colorado FBLA-PBL State Adviser from 1987-1989.

Harshbarger received several state honors for growing membership in the Mountain Plains Region during his tenure as state adviser in Nebraska and Colorado.

He was adviser to nine national student officers, and was inducted into the National FBLA-PBL Adviser Wall of Fame in 2003.

Long-Time PSC Professor Starts Little Free Library Bill Snyder, former business professor at Peru State College, and his wife Shirley, a former reading teacher in the Auburn Public Schools, installed a Little Free Library outside of their home in Auburn, Nebraska.

The Snyders first heard about Little Free Libraries from their daughter in Minnesota, who knew her parents love of reading. Shirley researched the program online, and then after attending a conference for the Nebraska State Reading Association, where they showed examples of the libraries resembling large birdhouses that could be placed right outside your house, Shirley decided this would be the perfect opportunity to share her and Bill’s love of books.

The Little Free Library is stocked with free books for all ages and the Snyders try and rotate out the selection regularly.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Little Free Library Organization, and its mission to promote literacy, can visit their website at www.littlefreelibrary.org.

Anyone interested in visiting the Snyder’s Little Free Library, it is located just west of 820 14th St. in Auburn, and readers have the option of reading a book and returning it or leaving a donated book in its place.

Peru Stater Fall 2013

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GRADUATION 2013

Above: Joseph Davidson and Dr. Wayne Davidson standing proud together as Joseph receives his master’s of science in organizational management. AboveRight: Joseph Boyle, of Sutherland, NE, accepts his bachelor’s degree while adding some character to his cap and gown attire. Below: In May, 459 graduates march through the Al Wheeler Activity Center on their way to take their seats for the graduation ceremony.

President Hanson present Jake Acers with his diploma during the May graduation ceremony.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Homecoming 2013

Black Student Union (BSU)- third place. candy, prizes and games gave entertainHonorable mention went to the Peru State ment for all ages, including professional caricatures by renowned cartoonist and Support Staff.

2013 marked the 93rd Homecoming trated by the Peru State College Student The Classic Car category: LaHood Peru State College’s National Alumni Ascelebration at Peru State College. “Color Senate. Leading the parade as the 2013 Windsor- first place, Larry Stevenson- sec- sociation President, Paul Fell.

Me Bobcat,” was the theme that inspired Grand Marshall was SaraBeth Donovan. ond place with his 1971 Cutlass, and Cliff The Peru State Bobcats took on the all of the vibrant colors in the décor and Donovan is a native of Lincoln and a 1985 Cooper- third place with his 1953 pickup.

Missouri Valley College Vikings on the events that filled Homecoming week. Stu- Peru State graduate. Donavon now serves Anticipation was high in the weeks Nebraska City High School football field, dents participated in colorful activities as an attorney with the U.S. Department leading up to Homecoming, in hopes that where the Bobcats lost 14-21. such as a photo booth, petting zoo, arts of Justice in Washington D.C., and is the the Oak Bowl Renovation Project would PSC’s first couple, Dr. Dan and Elaine and crafts, a dance, pep rally and fundrais- current Chair of the Peru State College be completed in time for the football game. Hanson, assisted in the coronation cereFoundation Board. ers.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature did not al- mony held during halftime of the football Parade participants were judged on low that to happen, but Homecoming game. Ellen Larsen, a Senior K-12 special Saturday, November 2nd, the day of the Homecoming Football game, began form and appearance of their transporta- guests were invited to tour the Oak Bowl education major and Student Senate Presiwith Nebraska’s Toughest Mile, sponsored tion, and the winners were: and see its progress. dent was crowned the 2013 Homecoming Float category: Student Senate - first by the Peru State College Cross Country A tailgate festival was held on the cam- Queen, and senior social science education Team. Competitors began in front of the place, Peru Theater Company- second, pus quad. The celebration featured a free major, Mitch Boshart was named HomePeru Fire Station and finished in front of and third place was Phi Beta Lambda. lunch, provided by Peru State’s Campus coming King.

Honorable mention was given to the Class Dining, and musical entertainment from the TJ Majors building on campus.

Mark your calendars for the 2014 The activities continued as spectators of 1963. the Hoyt Street Jazz Band.

Homecoming, which will be held in the came from all over southeast Nebraska to Decorated vehicles category: Peru State Activities scattered the campus. A New Oak Bowl Stadium on October 11. line up on Peru’s Main Street and watch Softball Team- first place, Peru State Edu- carnival that included inflatables, cotton Be sure to make plans to journey to Peru the annual Homecoming Parade, orches- cation Association (PSEA) - second place, and join in the festivities.

Closewise from top-right: Peru State’s first lady, Elaine Hanson, crowns the 2013 Homecoming King, Mitch Boshart, during the halftime coronation ceremony.

PSC’s unofficial sprit squad, Hayden Kusy, Chance Bruggeman, Natasha Bradley, Jake Hedden and Tyler Nutsch, cheer on the Bobcats during the 2013 Homecoming football game.

Blake Lofing leads the Hoyt Street Jazz Band during their performance at the Pre-Homecoming Tailgate on the campus quad.

Residents of south east Nebraska gathered with the campus community to enjoy the lunch and festival on the quad.

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The 2013 - 2014 Distinguished Speaker Series Kohl Crecilius, social entrepreneur cle of Success, details the quest he and and co-founder of Krochet Kids Inter- his friends are on to revolutionize what national, kicked off Peru State College’s it means to do business and to do good.

2013-14 Distinguished Speaker Series on Their mission began when Crecelius’ oldMonday, Oct. 7. er brother taught him how to crochet in Crecelius’ presentation, Sustainable high school. Soon he began teaching his Social Entrepreneurship: Creating a Cy- friends to make hats. Dubbed the “Kro-

Kohl Crecelius, distinguished speaker, spent time on the Campus of a Thousand Oaks, sharing his mission of social entrepreneurship with PSC students.

chet Kids” by their local newspaper in Spokane, Washington, the friends began selling hats in their hometown for a little spending money. Crecelius never imagined the hobby would blossom into a global movement.

Today, KKi employs more than 100 people in northern Uganda through the production of their handmade headwear and fashion accessories. The organization has recently started a new program in Peru, South America. Now spanning three continents, KKi connects the producer with the customer through a hand-signed label that accompanies every product.

The next Distinguished Speaker will be Jessica Jackley, the founder and former Chief Marketing Officer of KIVA, the world’s first peer to peer micro lending website. Jackley is scheduled to appear in the College Theater on April 7, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.

KIVA lets users lend as little as $25 to poor entrepreneurs around the world, providing affordable capital for them to start or expand microenterprises. Named one of the top ideas of 2006 by The New York Times Magazine, and praised by Oprah, Bill Clinton and countless others, KIVA is one of the fastest-growing social benefit

Kohl Crecelius

websites in history.

Since its founding in 2005, KIVA has loaned more than $400 million from lenders to entrepreneurs across 206 countries.

For all its success, KIVA remains focused on a simple mission to connect people through lending to alleviate poverty, one person at a time.

For more information on the Distinguished Speaker Series, visit www.peru. edu/speakerseries or contact Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Michaela Willis at 402872-2224 or mwillis@peru.edu.

Headlines Around Campus • Mr. Kristiaan Rawlings, Dean of Students, was awarded the 2012-2013 Barb Lewellen Award. This award is designed to honor an outstanding faculty, staff member or administrator who has distinguished him or herself through betterment of students and student life at PSC. • The Scroll of Service Award recipient for the 2012-2013 year is Ms. Lexi Fudge. Lexi is a Junior elementary education major. Lexi is President of Peru State Rotaract, Student Ambassador, Resident Advisor of Morgan Hall, and member of Wellness Coalition. The Scroll of Service Award is designed to honor any full-time PSC student for dedication and service to the student body and college.

• The Fall 2013 freshman class enroll- quilts and “wall hangings” for the past 50 ment is 266, up 28 percent since 2012. years. Much of the materials she uses she The number of on-campus students has denotes as recycled. Some of the fabrics games, snacks and a chance to have photos increased 28 percent in the past five years used in her compositions are more than taken with Bob the Bobcat. with 1,008 students currently enrolled. 100 years old.

Over 12 percent of freshman class mem• Peru State English Professor Dr. Bill bers are Board of Trustees Scholars, the • Three Peru State College students Clemente was elected vice president of earned first place at the Phi Beta Lambda the Alpha Chi National Council, the chief most prestigious scholarship offered by (PBL) National Leadership Conference in governing body of the coeducational aca- the Nebraska State College System for Anaheim, California. Peru State’s national demic honor society. Major responsibili- high academic achievement. champions in the Community Service ties for the vice president of the National • Two staff members of The Peru State category who presented The CHANCE Council include serving as chair of the Times earned Golden Leaf Awards in the (Children’s Health, Activity & Nutrition annual convention committee - selecting Newspaper Category at the Nebraska Col- Community Engagement) Initiative inspeakers, setting themes, planning activi- legiate Media Association Spring Confer- clude Allie Buesing, (Cozad, Nebraska) ties and otherwise assuring the success of ence, held April 20 at Doane College: Ama Rachel Henry, (Auburn, Nebraska) Henry the society’s event.

Bikoko: First Place, Series/Special Sec- also won fifth place in the Job Interview • Peru State senior defensive lineman, tion/Edition and Kyle Amen: Honorable category and Jamie Theye, (Odell, Nebraska).

Zach Lempka (Sterling, Nebraska) was Mention, Review Writing.

selected as a semifinalist for the 2013 • The first art exhibit in the PSC Art • Peru State College’s Children’s Health, National Football Foundation (NFF) Na- Gallery of the 2013-14 season was, “Wall Activity, & Nutrition Community Engage• The Peru State College Office of Stu- tional Scholar-Athlete Awards, presented Hangings” by Anna May Whittington. ment Initiative (CHANCE) has received dent Life hosted the fourth annual “Boo by Fidelity Investments.

The exhibit ran from August 19th through a $9,500 wellness grant from Blue Cross Bash” for area elementary school children September 19th. Whittington, a 96-year- and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) and their parents on Sunday, Oct. 27, 2013 • Peru State Associate Professor of Edu- old southeast Nebraska native, began what to promote physical activity among area on the Campus of a Thousand Oaks and cation Dr. Kyle Ryan has been named a she refers to as her “creative period” in students and reduce childhood obesity.

Peru City Hall. The event featured trick- Great Plains Public Health Leadership In- 1935, but has concentrated primarily on or-treating, crafts, face painting, outdoor stitute (GPPHLI) Scholar for 2013-14.

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Peru Stater Fall 2013

Front row L-R: Shirley (Tally) Bruhl, Susan (Hulbert) Perina, Sharylin (Vrtiska) Knock, Frankie Kan, Robert Reimers, Larry Rebuck, Larry Swett Back row L-R: Russel Workman, Kenneth Dostal, Russel Hicks, Paul Bodtke, Larry Hennerberg, Stephen Parker, Gerald Littell, Larry Rathe, Dean Stapleton, Eugene Walden, Tom Sewell

Class of 1963 Celebrates 50-Year Reunion When the class of 1963 graduated from Peru State Teachers College (PSTC), the Dallas Texans became the Kansas City Chiefs, and the Beatles released their first single in the United States, and Neal S. Gomon was President of PSTC. The Bobcat graduates went out in to the world to educate America’s youth with what they had gained at Peru.

During the 2013 Peru State College

50-Year mark. PSC Professor, Dr. Bill Clemente was on hand to take photos of the classmates to commemorate the event.

On Saturday, reunion guests braved Homecoming Celebration, members of tour of campus followed by a reception at the home of Dan and Elaine Hanson.

The the cold November air to show their Bobthe class of 1963 were invited back to Peru activities continued with a formal banquet cat spirit in a decorated float as part of the

by President Dan Hanson and the Peru in the Live Oak Room of the Student CenHomecoming Parade. For their enthuState College Foundation, as honored ter.

Dinner entertainment was provided by siasm and school spirit, the class of 1963 guests to mark their monumental 50-Year The Peru State College Madrigal Singers, won honorable mention in the decorated anniversary. The classes of ’62 and ’64 were also invited to join in the event. who wowed the guests with several a ca- float category.

Nearly 45 guests arrived on the Cam- pella selections.

Following the parade, the 50-Year pus of a Thousand Oaks Friday, NovemMembers of the class of 1963 were guests took their place at their reserved ber 1st, kicking off their celebration with a presented engraved medals to honor their seating on the campus quad to enjoy the lunch, provided by Peru State’s Creative Dining and entertainment, provided by the Hoyt Street Jazz Band. Later that day, the class was also honored with special crowd recognition and reserved seating at the Homecoming Football game.

It is 50 years later and the Beatles are still popular, and the Chiefs… well they are having a breakout season. Dr. Dan Hanson is President of what is now called Peru State College, but the PSTC class of 1963 are still, and always will be, Bobcats.

The 50-Year Reunion is a Peru State College tradition that occurs every year during the Homecoming Celebration, and honors the alumni that have reached that golden milestone in the life of a Bobcat.

If you or someone you know will be a member of our honored class in the near future, please contact the Peru State College Foundation at 402-872-2395.

Peru Stater Fall 2013

Peru Alum Helps Inspire a Movement The goal for almost any educator is to make a difference in the lives of the children they teach. Inspiring America’s youth has been a slogan for many teachers throughout the years and in a lot of cases, teachers really can inspire children to do great things in life. One such inspirational educator is Peru State College alum, Bill Hunsaker. Bill’s supportive mentoring to his student Ron Scheidt helped inspire Ron and his colleague, Brian Willis to compile a book of essays, that became a nationwide movement.

A native of Superior, Nebraska, Bill Hunsaker came to Peru State College in the fall of 1962. When he wasn’t playing varsity basketball for the Bobcats, he was courting his future wife and fellow Bobcat, Cecilia Palmer.

Bill learned the value of hard work at a young age, having held several jobs since the age of 12. He strived to achieve his dream of becoming a physical education teacher and a coach, and with the support of his own teachers, Hunsaker was able to see that dream become a reality. When Bill

married Cecilia, he added dedicated husband and father to his list of goals that he worked tirelessly to achieve, accomplishing almost 50 years of marriage before Cecilia passed away in 2010.

In the summer of 1964, when Hunsaker graduated from Peru State College, with a bachelor’s degree in education, the Hunsakers moved to Lincoln, and Bill started his thirty-five years teaching in the Lincoln Public Schools. Bill coached all sports and was athletic director for twenty-five years, and Cecilia was a long-time employee of the Ambassador Lincoln.

During his career, Bill coached and taught thousands of students, but one in particular remembered Coach Hunsaker as playing a key role in guiding him to success. Ron Scheidt hadn’t expected to do much with his future, but after his big brother, Bud, steered him to Coach Hunsaker, Scheidt started to believe that he could do more with his life, eventually becoming a successful federal agent.

Hunsaker had seen qualities in Scheidt that encouraged the student to work hard-

Remembering Peru State When you think of someone leaving lies. Ruby attended a country school in an estate gift, what kind of person comes her youth and eventually graduated from to mind? Maybe a rich oil tycoon or an Stella High School in 1930.

Religion was a big part of the Ruby’s extravagant heiress. These are unlikely life.

She was baptized in the Auburn scenarios, but that seems to be the stanChristian Church and later in life she bedard idea about estate planning. came a member of the Stella Community Ruby Arlene Higgins was not an exChurch. travagant heiress or an oil tycoon. She In 1935, Ruby married Charles Higwas a farm wife who filled her days with gins and they made their home on a household and farm chores and her free farm outside of Stella, Nebraska. The time was spent tending her garden or Higginses were a down-to-earth couple sewing. Ruby was proud of her role as who shared a love for the simple rural a farm wife and took pride in her home. lifestyle.

Charles took care of the farm Born Ruby Keyser on a farm in ruand Ruby made sure to keep things up ral Howe, Nebraska in 1913, she was no on the home-front. stranger to the rural lifestyle. Her parAfter Charles passed away in 1987, ents George Keyser and Minnie (Strole) Ruby had to take over some of the farmKeyser both came from farming fami-

er at obtaining his goals. Scheidt knew how important Coach Hunsaker had been in his life and he used his own experience to create a book. The book, Am I That Man?, celebrates people who can step up and play that life-changing role in the life of someone else by stepping in to the “hero” role.

When reflecting on his own life Scheidt asked himself, “Am I That Man?” The man that Bud and Coach Hunsaker could be proud of?” Soon this question became a mantra that sparked the nation-wide movement inspiring people to become better husbands, fathers, leaders etc.

The book itself is made up of essays written from men of many different backgrounds and professions, who have had individuals who helped change their life for the better. The goal of “Am I That Man,” is to encourage, not only men, but individuals of all ages and backgrounds to step up and be a better man.

Bill Hunsaker didn’t dedicate his life to being a great teacher, coach and father so that he could be praised in a book. Hunsaker took his rural work ethic and combined it with his desire to teach and the education that he gained from Peru State College, and he did what any teacher as-

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pires to do. What Hunsaker did was not heroic to him, it was simply doing his job, but to many of his students, such as Ron Scheidt, it was a life changing experience to have been taught by Coach Hunsaker.

Peru State College is proud to call Bill Hunsaker a Bobcat.

ing responsibilities and she rarely ven- managed their income wisely, resulting tured off of the farm. On the rare occa- in strategic plans for their estate.

Because of her love of rural living, sion that she did get out and about, it was to attend church or to have her grand- her family and her deep rooted religious nieces drive her through the rolling hills beliefs, Ruby planned to leave her estate of Peru, where she could look out upon to the institutions that she felt contribthe historical cemetery. uted to the betterment of southeast NeRuby’s mother Minnie attended Peru braska. She left sizeable gifts to several State Normal School in the early 1900s, religious organizations and charities, but and Ruby had always thought fondly of Ruby had arranged for the bulk for her the small college. Ruby would often hear estate to be given to the Peru State Colher friends and family telling stories of lege Foundation. their own experiences at Peru State. AlThough Ruby had never attended though she never showed much interest Peru State, her mother, friends, relatives in college, Ruby valued education and and other acquaintances had, and that what Peru State did for southeast Ne- was enough for Ruby to understand the braska. important role PSC plays in the educaIn 2010, declining health caused tion of students who might not be ecoRuby to move to the Good Samaritan nomically able to attend college. Ruby’s Society in Auburn, and though she was gift will fund scholarships and provide off the farm, she still lived a simple way educational and structural funding in a variety of capacities for Peru State Colof life.

Ruby was 99 years old when she lege and its students.

To find out how you can include Peru passed away. She lived a very full and happy life doing what she loved. Ruby State College in your estate plans, conand Charles had put in many years of tact the Peru State College Foundation hard work on their farm and they had Office at (402) 872-2304.

The Peru Stater

Inside this Peru Stater you’ll find …

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The Oak Bowl Renovation PSC Student Earns 2013 Newman Civic Fellow Award

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

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Student Spotlight: Rachel Henry Five Inducted in to Athletic Hall of Fame Boshart Wins the NAIA A.O. Duer Award Grotrian-Ryan Earns 2013 Teacher Excellence Award The 2013-2014 Distinguished Speaker Series

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 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.

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