S2014 Peru Stater

Spring 2014 Vol. 59, No. 1

Lee Sapp Awarded Honorary Doctorate at Peru State College 2014 Commencement Ceremony Story on page 4

The Stater

1

Greetings from Peru State Dan Hanson Peru State College President

Dear Friends, This issue of the Peru Stater is filled with wonderful stories of student and faculty successes. These achievements, along with increasing enrollments and campus renovations, make this a great time to be at Peru State College. I am especially thankful for the role the Peru State College Foundation is playing in these successes.

A large part of the Foundation’s focus is funding educational programs and scholarships. In each of the past four years the organization has provided more than $350,000 to the College for programs and scholarships and has budgeted more than $400,000 for College programs for 2013-14, not including funds for campus improvements.

This year they are helping fund a trip to the Phi Beta Lambda national competi-

tion in Nashville, Tenn., for a group of 26 students who qualified. The generosity doesn’t stop there. It goes further by funding lunches for potential students and their families who come for a campus visit.

In addition to the educational programs and scholarships it funds, the Foundation has been working to raise money for capital improvement campaigns, including the Oak Bowl and Park Avenue Projects. The Foundation has been instrumental in raising funds to supplement those allocated by the Nebraska Legislature for the Oak Bowl renovation and is now focused on raising much-needed funds for a new Fieldhouse.

The Bobcat football program includes roughly 120 student athletes, approximately 12 percent of the total student population. The current Fieldhouse facility is too small and outdated to accommodate a growing, competitive athletic program. It doesn’t come close to meeting the needs of our student athletes, coaches, or trainers and leaves a negative impression on those who visit and use the facility.

Park Avenue is a critical byway for everyone entering the community, but

College President Dr. Dan Hanson PSC Foundation Board of Directors SaraBeth Donovan (‘85), Chair - Vienna, VA Mike Guilliatt (‘67), Vice Chair - Fremont, NE Cindy (‘82) & Time (‘84) Hoffman, Treasurers - Lincoln, NE Larry (‘71) & Sue Green, Secretaries - Miramar Beach, FL Rod Vandeberg - Falls City, NE Dennis Wittmann - Auburn, NE Al Urwin (‘73) - La Vista, NE Jim Desbien (‘73) - Plainville, KS Joyce Douglas - Lincoln, NE PSC National Alumni Association Board of Directors Paul (’67) and Arlene (Borcher, ’67) Fell, Co-Presidents - Lincoln, NE Carlos Harrison (’51), Vice President - Shenandoah, IA Ed Ankrom (’91), Secretary - Beatrice, NE Kim (’90) and Kris (Kubert, ’94) Vrtiska, Co-Treasurers - Falls City, NE Elton (’88) and Connie (Sims, ’87) Edmond - Lincoln, NE Dan (’76) and Cheryl Cotton - Peru, NE Nick (’87) and Laurel (Smith, ’87) Harling - Falls City, NE

2 The Stater

the route poses a significant safety hazard for students, employees, community members and visitors. While the Foundation Board of Directors is coordinating the fundraising effort, the project is a true partnership involving the City of Peru, Nemaha County and Peru State.

Not only will the project ensure a safe byway for students, employees, community members and visitors, it will also go a long way toward improving the image of the College and the town, contributing to increased admissions, employee recruitment, town pride, campus pride and alumni relations.

The College appreciates the great working relationship we have with the Foundation and its board. Their financial support plays a critical role in the success of the institution and our students. We look forward to working together to build a vibrant future for the college.

As alumni, we hope you will engage in these important initiatives and consider contributing financially. Student scholarships, an improved campus entrance or an Oak Bowl Fieldhouse – there is no shortage of important projects from 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 have a great summer!

All the Best,

Dan Hanson, Ph.D. President

Chuck (’69) and Alice (Massoth, ’69) Mizerski - Lincoln, NE Fritz (’74) and Char (Lutz, ’74) Stehlik - Omaha, NE Angelia Rohwer Steiner (’90) - Sabetha, KS Al Urwin(’82) - La Vista, NE 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 Rebecca Jewell, Advancement Officer, PSC Foundation 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)

Oak Bowl Update

The Bobcats have the ball on the 20 yard line.

The student athletes will relish the experi- ing staff, team meeting rooms, and appropriate Thanks to Nebraska’s commitment to high- ence of playing on the new field, surrounded space for athletic trainers who work to prevent er education and the efforts of then-State Sen- by cheering fans and the natural beauty of the injuries and conduct important health assessator Lavon Heidemann, the State of Nebraska Oak Bowl. ments that keep young athletes healthy and Todd Simpson has provided $7,500,000 in funding to support However, at halftime, these dedicated stu- help them recover from injuries. These necCFRE the Oak Bowl renovation. That support has dent athletes will rest and adjust game plans essary structures will lend vital support to the Executive Director been matched by $1,600,000 in contributions in an old, very outdated locker room. The football program and to year-round intramural Peru State College from alumni and friends, as well as facility coaches will too, sharing the space with a 140 sports as well. These two structures are the Foundation improvement funding made available through -member team, and planning strategy for the remaining 20% of the renovation. $2.1 million Peru State College. To date, we have secured second half in a cramped, uncomfortable, and is needed to finish these two very important about 80% of the total cost of this project. uninspiring setting. Athletic trainers will use elements of the Oak Bowl Complex.

If we do nothing more, the Oak Bowl will temporary stations to assess players, apply tape When the score is tied and the Bobcats are Much progress has been made on the reno- be ready to host games this fall, but the renova- and other treatments, and prepare athletes to standing on the 20 yard line, do they decide vation of Peru State’s beautiful Oak Bowl. As tion will be only 80% complete. return to the game. that 80% toward goal is good enough? The one person observed, during the gray days of When you come to the Oak Bowl this fall, The Peru State College Foundation contin- Peru State College Foundation thanks each of winter, the field of vivid green turf, accented you will walk new sidewalks, find a seat in the ues to seek contributions to complete two key you who has helped us get this close to the goal here and there with Bobcat blue and white, ap- brand new stands, buy something to eat from support facilities at the Oak Bowl Complex. line. If you are considering supporting the new peared like a welcoming oasis. a new concessions area, hear the play-by-play The first is the interior renovation of the home Oak Bowl by making a financial contribution, While the campus is looking forward to a and announcements from a new press box and locker room building. It is currently in substan- or if you are considering a second contribution, ribbon cutting ceremony on September 6th, announcer’s booth, perhaps even enjoy the dard condition and barely adequate to meet the now is the time. A gift today will benefit Peru 2014, to kick off the 2014-2015 season, the Oak game from one of two new hospitality suites. needs of the 140 student athletes of the Bobcat State College, and our student athletes, coachBowl renovation contest is not yet over. It is, You might come to a night game, and enjoy the football team. The second is the expansion of es, athletic trainers, and the many other people metaphorically speaking, in the third quarter. action on the gridiron under the glow of new an existing building into a field house that in- working behind the scenes, day after day, to The game is tied, but momentum is with us. lights. cludes offices and locker space for the coach- make us proud to call ourselves Bobcats.

2014 Alumni Events National Alumni Association Omaha Chapter Dinner & Auction

ered at Lazlo’s in the Haymarket in Lincoln on April 3, 2014 for the first alumni ediWith the loss of great Omaha PSC Alum, tion of the Bobcat Buzz. Excited Bobcat Jack Hallstrom, the National Alumni Asso- fans listened to updates on all of the Bobcat ciation’s Omaha Chapter faced a great void sports from team coaches and Athletics Inin their annual Dinner & Auction event, but formation Specialist, Ted Harshbarger and they pushed on, as this event is the chapter’s Athletic Director, Steve Schneider. largest fundraiser of the year. The OmaPSC vs. UNO Basketball/Alumni ha Alumni Chapter provides scholarships Coffee Gathering as well as funding for activities and orgaNot even a blizzard could keep the nizations at Peru State College each year. Bobcat fans from coming out and showing The 2014 event did make some additions, their Peru State spirit as the Cats took on such as a new theme, “Big Blue Thursday.” the UNO Mavericks in an exhibition game The theme allowed for attendees to come on February 5, 2014, at the Ralston Arena. dressed in Bobcat Casual.

Peru State alum, Fritz Stehlik (’74), with his Alumni Chili Feed

February 15, 2014, marked the day of the annual PSC Alumni Chili Feed. Bobcat fans filled the stands in the Al Wheeler Activity Center; where close to 350 guests were treated to hot chili, served by members of the PSC Student Senate and National Alumni Association Board. The Bobcat basketball teams took on the Missouri Valley College Vikings. Half-time entertainment was provided by Gary’s Tumbling.

law firm Gross & Welch, provided coffee for all PSC alumni attendees.

Lincoln Alumni Reception

The Peru State College National Alumni Association hosted its annual Lincoln Alumni Reception at the HiMark Golf Course on Thursday, December 5, 2013.

Alumni and guests had a chance to reconnect with Peru State College and other Bobcat alumni during the reception. PSC President Dan Hanson gave a presentation on all Bobcat Buzz: Alumni Edition of the success and progress currently taking Peru State alumni and sports fans gath- place on the Campus of a Thousand Oaks.

Above: Student Senate members Jessica Merrill, Chloe Langford and Melissa Pollard help serve chili at the annual National Alumni Association Chili Feed.

Peru State Needs Your Opinion!

Please take a minute and complete a short survey (10 questions) by navigating your internet browser to

http://foundation.peru.edu/survey2014

The first 50 responders will receive a Peru State palm held pizza cutter!

Your opinions are important and will help us better engage and connect with our friends and alumni. All responses are confidential. Go ‘Cats!

The Stater

3

Lee Sapp Awarded Honorary Doctorate at 2014 Commencement Ceremony “Lee has left a legacy in the hearts and minds of all those he has helped over the years and is deserving of the highest recognition Peru State College can bestow.”

Above: Lee Sapp receiving recognition during the 2014 Commencement Ceremony.

President Dan Hanson Receives Alumni Achievement Award “Renaissance Man,” is the term affectionately used to describe Peru State College (PSC) President, Dr. Daniel Hanson.

You don’t have to be a PSC student, staff or faculty member to know what an impact Dr. Hanson has had on Peru State and the surrounding communities in his short five years as college president.

Throughout his career, Hanson has had an impact on several educational institutions, not only as an educator and administrator, but also as a student, and his positive success reaches far beyond the hills of Peru.

Iowa State University (ISU) announced their decision to award Dr. Dan Hanson with its College of Human Sciences’ Alumni

4 The Stater

Achievement award to honor all of his accomplishments, past and present.

The Iowa State College of Human Sciences’ Alumni Achievement Award is presented to recognize meritorious service and or distinguished achievements of College of Human Sciences’ graduates in such areas as business, industry, education family and consumer sciences and health. The recipients of this award must have received national or international recognition for his or her service or achievements, with a recognized positive impact.

Long before his college presidency, Dr. Hanson was a student. Hanson received his Bachelor’s degree in education from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, his Master’s degree in education and computer sciences from Mankato State University in Mankato, Minn., and his Ph.D. in Instructional Technology from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa.

During his completion of the doctoral program at ISU, Dr. Hanson served as a research assistant in the Research Institute for Studies

Peru State College and the Nebraska State College System honored Lee Sapp with an Honorary Doctorate of Pedagogy (Ped.D.) in recognition of his life-long commitment to and investment in education during the institution’s annual commencement ceremony Saturday, May 10.

President Dan Hanson said, “Despite the fact that he was not able to attend college, Mr. Lee Sapp and his late wife, Helene, quietly funded four years of higher education for more than 110 Nebraskans. They have done this, in part, to honor Lee’s mother, Emilie Hubka Sapp, and sisters Veloura Sapp Barnard and Zelma Sapp Drake, all of whom attended Peru State and taught in Nebraska country schools.

Lee has left a legacy in the hearts and minds of all those he has helped over the years and is deserving of the highest recognition Peru State College can bestow. We look forward to honoring him at Saturday’s ceremony.”

Sapp, the fifth of seven children, was born near Auburn, NE., during the Great Depres-

in Education and as a teaching assistant in the Department of Curriculum and instruction.

Dr. Daniel Hanson became Peru State’s 33rd president August 1, 2009, after working more than 30 years at Waldorf College in Forest City, Iowa. While at Waldorf, Dr. Hanson held various positions (some simultaneously), such as Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dean of the college, Counselor and Assistant Director of Admissions, Associate Professor in the Division of Social Science and Chair of the Management Information Systems Department.

Although he has worn many hats as a student and educator, his most treasured role has been that of husband and father. Dan and his wife Elaine have been married for 38 years, and they have two daughters: Heather, 28, who graduated in December 2010 from the University of Iowa with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, she and her husband, Armando live in Chicago; Abby, 26, who graduated with a Masters in occupational therapy at Colorado State in May of 2012. Abby and her husband Shane,

sion. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1948, serving in the Korean War with the U.S. Marine Corps before returning to Nebraska in 1952.

Sapp and his brothers started the Sapp Bros.

Company in 1960, opening a Ford dealership first in Ashland and later in Blair and Omaha.

The Sapp Bros. Travel Centers and Petroleum Company followed, as well as numerous truck stops. In 1977, Sapp opened Sapp City Bank in Ashland and insurance businesses.

A successful businessman and civic-minded individual, Sapp has made many generous contributions to the State of Nebraska, students, higher education institutions and communities.

He has built facilities in the Nebraska communities of Filley, Pawnee City, and Virginia and has made generous contributions to the Pawnee City Historical Society and Brownville Community Foundation. He has also been a strong advocate for Mahoney State Park, Henry Doorly Zoo, Strategic Air Command Museum, Westside Wrestling Club and the Teammates mentoring program.

Most impressive is Sapp’s individual support and passion for higher education. He has invested in much needed infrastructure improvements for colleges and universities across Nebraska. He and his brother, Bill, made significant contributions to help fund the renovation of Peru State’s historic Oak Bowl. The brothers also co-authored a book in 2010 titled The Sapp Brothers’ Story: Tough Times, Teamwork & Faith.

a Peru State graduate, live in Nebraska City where he teaches 5th grade and she works at the Ambassador Wellness Center.

His commitment to everything he is involved in has prompted Dr. Hanson’s success and recognition for his tireless work.

In a letter of support for Dr. Hanson, one of his former Waldorf College colleagues, Richard A. Hanson, Ph.D., now the president of Bemidji State University and Northwest Technical School, describes Dr. Hanson with three specific themes, “competent, committed, and caring.”

“Obviously Dan is a renaissance man. He is committed and ethical, he is empathic and supportive, and he is a pragmatic leader. I support him strongly for his recognition.”

Dr. Hanson will accept his award during Iowa State’s homecoming celebration October 9-11, 2014, with his lovely wife Elaine by his side.

Dr. Kyle Ryan Named 2014 Teacher Excellence Award Winner Peru State College Associate Professor of Exercise Science, Dr. Kyle Ryan has been named as the 2014 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 positive record of service to students as an academic, professional or personal advisor.

Candidates must also have demonstrated involvement in faculty development programs, a superior level of teaching effectiveness and a record of public service.

Recipients of the campus award from each of the colleges are finalists for the Nebraska State College System’s George Rebensdorf Teaching Excellence Award.

President Dan Hanson said, “Among Dr. Ryan’s many strengths is his creative approach to enhancing the learning environment for our students through the development of creative programming and partnerships that are often supported by his successful work with grants. Consequently, he creates opportunities for our students to apply what they learn and really make an impact by engaging with our surrounding communities. The community benefits and our students are better prepared for their

Above: Dr. Kyle Ryan poses with his wife and 2013 Teacher Excellence Award recipient, Dr. Sheri Grotiran-Ryan.

professions. I congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.”

Ryan, who joined the Peru State faculty in 2009, serves as the college’s coordinator for the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s (UNMC) Public Health Early Admissions Student Track (PHEAST) program and co-director of the Children’s Health, Activity & Nutrition Community Engagement (CHANCE) Initiative with Associate Professor of Business Dr. Sheri Grotrian-Ryan.

PHEAST is a cooperative program between the Nebraska State College System, UNMC’s College of Public Health and the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Its purpose is to create a pipeline and cadre of public health professionals who will practice in Nebraska. Once admitted, PHEAST students can select one of 10 concentrations, including biostatistics, community oriented primary care, environmental and occupational health, epidemiology or public health administration.

The CHANCE Initiative is a grant-funded partnership between Peru State faculty, Auburn Public Schools, Johnson-Brock Public Schools, the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and Auburn Family Health Center, P.C. The longitudinal service learning study seeks to provide nutrition education and extracurricular activities for elementary-aged children in an effort to address pediatric rural obesity.

The goal is to encourage healthier lifestyles among area children and their families by creating awareness and educating them about better choices.

The CHANCE Initiative has been funded by Youth Serve America, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Nebraska, Michelle Obama’s “Let’s Move” campaign, and the Rural Futures Institute to further solidify the pre-existing partnerships between the campus and community. Most recently, the Initiative was honored by Nebraska Campus Compact with the organization’s Outstanding Community and Campus Collaboration Award and by the Auburn Chamber of Commerce with its 2013 Youth Development Award.

Ryan is lead faculty for the sport and exercise science curriculum at Peru State and was awarded the 2012-13 Health Educator of the Year Award for the State of

Above: 2014 Teacher Excellence Award Winner, Dr. Kyle Ryan, accepting congratulations from PSC President, Dr. Dan Hanson.

Nebraska by the Nebraska Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. He serves as chair of the advisory committee for Nebraska Campus Compact, an entity committed to providing meaningful experience for students to become active, engaged leaders in their communities, furthering the civic and public purpose of higher education and strengthening communities. Ryan also serves on the advisory group for Partners in Health, a group tasked with formalizing stakeholder involvement, communication, and shared planning to develop, implement, and evaluate the Nebraska Physical Activity and Nutrition State Plan. He was named a Great Plains Public Health Leadership Institute Scholar for 2013-14.

Ryan is a veteran of Navy and Marine Corps combat units and has served his country on four separate continents. He is a graduate of Humboldt State University (HSU), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and a master’s degree in kinesiology. He earned a Ph.D. in sport and exercise science with a minor in statistical research methods from the University of Northern Colorado.

Certified as a strength and conditioning specialist, Ryan served as assistant strength coach at HSU while completing his mas-

ter’s degree and was named the University of Northern Colorado’s first strength and conditioning coach while pursuing his Ph.D. He was also the first strength and conditioning coach at Peru State.

Ryan coached the University of Northern Colorado to the Rugby National Championship in 2003 and served as strength and conditioning consultant for USA Rugby from 2000 to 2004. After earning his Ph.D., Ryan served as a faculty member in the Division of Kinesiology at the University of Michigan and in the College of Health at the University of Utah.

Ryan’s current research interests include neuromechanics, community-based participatory research with regard to obesity intervention and prevention, and the effectiveness of academic service learning.

Ryan said, “It truly is an honor to be mentioned in the same breath as the previous recipients of this award. On those days when the career I value so much threatens to become ‘just another job,’ I look at those award winners still serving in the classroom and realize how fortunate I am to be counted among them. While I am thankful for the opportunities afforded me and appreciative of the support of my peers, my true gratitude extends to those students who willingly rise to the occasion and meet the bar, no matter how high I have set it.”

The Stater

5

Peru State Students Venture on the College’s First PeruQuest International Field Experience By: Dr. Julie Taylor - Costello – whitewater rafting, hiking to a local waterfall, This spring break ten students stepped snorkeling, and dance lessons with the students outside of their comfort zones and traveled to from the school. It was a fantastic trip. Every Jarabacoa in the Dominican Republic. Before student who participated in this PeruQuest they left they had an eight-week class which International Field Experience did so with the helped them learn about the country, its cus- help of the Omaha Alumni Scholarship donatoms, the people, history, politics, and culture. tion – thanks to this donation, students who Each student was able to select and present on otherwise may not have been able to go, were a topic that interested them and related to their able to have an experience of a lifetime! major. The trip lasted eight days and over the Left: PeruQuest students experienced course of four and a half days students put in the trip of a lifetime and made many over 30 hours of service working at an eco- connections while working in the Domintourism school and national park. Students dug ican Republic. Back Row L to R: Kirsten holes, planted trees, built decks, painted, raked, Peterson, Lexi Neeman, Ellen Larsen, Tour planted seeds, pulled weeds, dug up invasive Guide, TJ Bekcert, Zach Kliegl, Lauren plant species, all while working closely with lo- Stewart, Maggie Robertson. Front Row L cal people and students. They also had the op- to R: Devin Hart, Angela Zarybnicky, Julie portunity to present ideas for making the park Taylor-Costello, Brooke Earnest. and its services better. There was time for fun

Senior Megan Brown published in The National Social Science Journal Megan Brown, a senior special education major from Syracuse, Neb., along with Peru State Associate Professor of Education Dr. Judith Ruskamp, were recently published in The National Social Science Journal.

Brown and Ruskamp’s research project, titled “Common Core State Standards: Opportunities, Challenges, and Professional Disposition,” began as a directed study course in summer 2013. Their work focused on Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and issues such as equity, excellence and the transition process to this new accountability paradigm. The duo included research, information and conclusions on the current system of assessment in the state of Nebraska and the opportunities, challenges and professional dispositions unique to this state. Nebraska is one of only four states that have not adopted the CCSS. The National Social Science Journal accepts only 12-15 percent of all articles submitted.

The article is available at www.nssa.us.

Brown and Ruskamp presented their work at the National Social Science Association Fall Professional Development Conference in New Orleans, La., last fall.

Ruskamp said, “Providing our undergraduate students an opportunity to submit their work to professional journals and present at conferences is an example of Peru State’s efforts to create unique opportunities for student engagement while also opening doors that

6 The Stater

will benefit their future careers. We are so proud of Megan and all of her accomplishments. She will be an outstanding educator.”

Brown has participated in and led numerous local, state, and national outreach projects that focused on education or community enrichment. She was honored by the National Education Association (NEA) with its Jeffrey “J.D.” Miller Outstanding Underclassman Award in 2011. She was selected for the honor from more than 60,000 members involved in 1,100 college and university chapters. The award recognized her dedication and leadership skills as Peru Student Education Association (PSEA) president.

The NEA honored Brown in 2012 with its Outstanding Local Leader Award and the Nebraska State Education Association honored her with its Capitol District Leader Award the same year.

Brown was selected as one of only 20 students by the Global Campaign for Education – U.S. Chapter (GCE-US) to participate in the organization’s 2013 Fall Youth Advocacy Training in Washington, D.C. The GCE-US is a broad-based coalition of U.S. organizations including non-profit organizations, teachers’ unions, foundations, faith-based groups and think tanks dedicated to ensuring universal quality education.

Brown spent four days learning about education as a right around the world and how she can mobilize her community to help the nearly 132 million youth worldwide that are unable to access their right to a quality education due to barriers such as poverty, child marriage, lack of a trained teacher or gender-based violence.

Peru State College’s Online Degree Program Ranks in National Top Ten In February of 2014, GetEducated.com ranked Peru State College a Top 10 Best Online Business School for its Master of Science in Organizational Management degree.

GetEducated.com released its biennial rankings of the best online business schools associated with cost conscious consumers seeking quality online management and leadership degrees.

Peru State College earned its number 8 ranking as a Best Buy among regional accredited online business schools for its online master’s of Science in Organizational Management (MSOM) degree.

Peru State’s 36-credit-hour, online Master of Science in Organizational Management program is designed for individuals who want to acquire advanced education as a change agent to facilitate growth in organizations and communities. The specialization in entrepreneurship and economic development directly addresses successful business growth and economic development strategies. Students can complete the MSOM program in two years studying part-time.

“Peru State College’s Top 10 ranking as a Best Buy among online master’s programs rec-

ognizes the institution as a national leader in the field of online education. Its online executive program offers a high-quality, affordable education not just to the residents of Nebraska, but to executives nationwide. Peru State is a laudable model for how public universities with forward-thinking educational teams are combining the credibility of a traditional university experience with cutting-edge technology to better serve America’s working executives,” said Vicky Phillips, founder of GetEducated. com.

Founded in 1989, GetEducated.com publishes independent reviews and rankings of the best online universities in the USA along the consumer dimensions of affordability and student satisfaction. GetEducated.com builds free tools that help online students compare online learning programs for cost and quality before they enroll.

The Get Educated online learning affordability project brings transparency and choice to the process of helping consumers find the best online degree programs in the USA among 3,400+ competing accredited degree programs.

For more information about the organization’s online college rankings, visit http:// w w w.geteducated.com/online-college-ratings-and-rankings.

CONTACT: Vicky Phillips, CEO, GetEducated.com, Burlington, VT. 05451. 802-8994866. Website: http://www.geteducated.com For more information about Peru State’s MSOM program, visit http://www.peru.edu/ graduate/msom/index.htm or contact the Office of Graduate Programs at 402-872-2314 or graduateprograms@peru.edu.

Headlines Around Campus • Seven Peru State College students were selected to be part of the Nebraska State Bandmasters Association Intercollegiate Honor Band. Honor band delegates were selected from private and public colleges and universities throughout the state to perform in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Kimball Recital Hall. PSC’s delegates were Emily Engels (Beatrice)-Tenor Saxophone, William Gleason (Lincoln)-Trumpet, Thomas Horky (Fairbury)-Percussion, Yusheng Li (Shenyang, China)-Clarinet, Jill Peterson (North Platte)-Baritone Saxophone, Jeremy Rudder (Louisville)-French Horn.

• Twyla Hansen visited PSC for her first reading following her induction as Nebraska’s State Poet. A reception at the home of President, Dr. Dan Hanson, where students were allowed to visit with the poet before her reading.

• The 41st annual high school business contest was held on the Campus of a Thousand Oaks, and brought record attendance numbers. Students from 22 high schools in at least three surrounding states journeyed to PSC to compete for scholarships and awards. Competitions were held in 15 different disciplines related to business, such as computer concepts, accounting and keyboarding skills.

• During Black History Month, the PSC

Black Student Union and Phi Alpha Theta • The Peru State English Department teamed up with the Mayhew Cabin to co-spon- sponsored Co-authors, Pilot Brian Thomsor a Black History month program. The groups as and PSC Alum, Lisa Kovanda, to come hosted a film showing of Freedom Seekers: to Peru State College and share Brian’s story Stories from the Western Underground Rail- and the book that the two wrote to detail road. The film’s director, Gary Jenkins, partic- his harrowing experience. Published in 2013, ipated in an after-film discussion.

Modified Flight Plan tells how Thomas left • In January of 2014, Nathan Baker began work one day in April 2009, thinking he had his new position as the Peru State women’s the flu. Four hours later he was comatose volleyball coach. Baker has 12 years experi- and on life-support. ence as head or assistant coach at the collegiate When he awoke after 10 days in a coma level. Baker takes pride in his players excelling with his hands, feet and face developing ganin the classroom as much as on the volleyball grene, he faced the prospect of becoming a court. Welcome Coach Baker. quadruple amputee. Surgeons saved his left • Kathryn Bolkovac, international speaker hand, but Thomas, who has had a private and author, came to PSC to speak about her pilot’s license since he was 16, also faced the work regarding human trafficking, ethics and reality that he might never fly again. anti-corruption issues. Bolkovac is a former Undaunted, Thomas battled through Lincoln police officer, who joined the United a long recovery and regained not only the Nations Police Task Force. The critically ac- ability to lead a normal working life but also claimed movie, The Whistle Blower, is based his pilot’s certification. on Bolkovac’s experiences during her interna• Peru State’s PBL received honors for tional work. She now provides consultancy on Student Excellence and Career Education whistleblower protection and codes of conduct from Governor Dave Heineman and the and advocates for legislative policy reforms for Nebraska department of Education Deputy government accountability.

Commissioner.

• PSC basketball coaches participated in the • Megan Brown, a senior special edu11th annual Coaches VS. Cancer Suits and cation major from Syracuse, was selected Sneakers weekend. Suits and Sneakers is a na- as one of the only 20 students by the Globtional Coaches vs. Cancer event to raise aware- al Campaign for Education-US Chapter ness about the fight against cancer. PSC’s ad- (GCE-US) to participate in the organizaministration supported the event by allowing tions 2013 Fall Youth Advocacy Training in free-will donation instead of charging admis- Washington, D.C. sion to the PSC basketball game against Baker University.

Peru State’s Allie Buesing Named 2014 Newman Civic Fellow The Campus Compact named Peru State national coalition of more than 1,100 college lic Schools, Johnson-Brock Public Schools, College sophomore Allie Buesing, an exercise and university presidents—representing some the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and Auscience major and business administration mi- 6 million students—who are committed to ful- burn Family Health Center, P.C. The goal nor from Cozad a 2014 Newman Civic Fellow. filling the civic purposes of higher education is to encourage healthier lifestyles among Buesing makes the third PSC student to be to improve community life and to educate stu- area children and their families by creating named the Newman Civic Fellow, in as many dents for civic and social responsibility. awareness and educating them about better years. Jamie Theye, a senior business, marketThrough service-learning courses and oth- choices. ing and information technology major from er opportunities for community engagement, President Dan Hanson said, “Allie exOdell, earned the honor in 2013. Kesha Beethe, colleges are developing students’ public prob- emplifies the characteristics of the Newman a junior sport management and exercise science lem solving skills, such as the ability to analyze Civic Fellow Award. Only a sophomore, major from Tecumseh, was honored in 2012. community needs, the willingness to partici- Allie has already assumed an important The award honors 197 student leaders an- pate in public processes and debate, the com- leadership role in community outreach and nually from across the country. Through ser- mitment to raise awareness about challenges, engagement. She clearly demonstrates her vice, research and advocacy, those selected and the ability to inspire others to become part motivation and propensity for long-term have demonstrated a personal commitment to of solutions. leadership in civic engagement through her understanding the root cause of social issues Buesing’s honor is directly attributed to her work with the CHANCE Initiative and her and finding lasting solutions for challenges fac- work with the Children’s Health, Activity & Nu- other educational and career commitments. ing communities. trition Community Engagement (CHANCE) She understands how to work with others The Newman Civic Fellow Award is named Initiative. Developed by Associate Professor and will be a wonderful resource and colfor Dr. Frank Newman, one of the founders of Education Dr. Kyle Ryan and Associate league for other Fellows with the capacity to of Campus Compact, who dedicated his life to Professor of Business Dr. Sheri Grotrian-Ry- develop life-long professional relationships. creating opportunities for student civic learn- an, the CHANCE Initiative is a grant-funded I congratulate Allie on this well-deserved ing and engagement. Campus Compact is a partnership between Peru State, Auburn Pub- honor.”

Nemaha County Gives Back Raises More than $9,000 After a year absence, the Nemaha County Gives Back (NCGB) fundraiser was given new life at Peru State College. The local fundraiser was created by Bob and Bobette Guenther in 2007 to give aid to families who are struggling during the holiday season.

The Campus Club Council and Southeast Nebraska Community Action (SENCA) sponsored the 2013 event that brought more than 60 attendees to the Student Center on The Campus of a Thousand Oaks. Chelsea Allgood, Athletic Department Project Coordinator and Sasha Rightsell, SENCA family services coordinator took the lead on organizing the event.

Allgood and Rightsell had a team of committee members, Elaine Hanson, Peggy Groff and Julie Taylor-Costello. By reaching out to students, employees, organizations, community members and students, Allgood was able to spark a movement in the desire to give back at Peru State.

First Lady of Peru State, Elaine Hanson, who played a vital part in coordinating and executing NCGB, had this to say about Allgood.

“She empowered students, businesses, churches and community members to pick up the baton and carry on. We’re thankful for Chelsea, because of her energy, time and talents a lot of people will have a brighter Christmas.”

The evening included a formal dinner, provided by Peru State Creative Dining, as well as musical entertainment from guitarist and Auburn High School student Ian Miller and pianist David Norris of Peru. A live auction featured items like hunting access on the Buck Creek Dam and Lake, season tickets from the Peru State Theatre Company, decorated Christmas trees, and many other donated items from local residents and businesses.

A total of $9,050.46 and 15 decorated Christmas trees were donated this year, surpassing the goal of $5,000 and 10 decorated trees. NCGB was able to assist 78 households, including 137 children, as well as contribute to the SENCA Emergency Assistance program.

This program provides basic needs and support services to families in crisis who are unable to provide for themselves. Support may include, but is not limited to, food, clothing, emergency shelter, rent and utility assistance, basic essentials, landlord-tenant mediation, and crisis intervention. Households received assistance in the form of gift cards to SunMart, Glenn’s Corner Market and Shopko of Auburn to help provide gifts for all the children and put a holiday meal on the table.

The Stater

7

Ron Kelley Earns Spot in Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame

Ron Kelley Ron Kelley (’63) began his baseball career as a child in Falls City, on a sandlot near the south end of Stone Street, playing on weekends

Jack Hallstrom “He inspired students with his actions, his professionalism, and his willingness to treat all fairly.”

On February 9, 2014, at age 85, Jack Hallstrom’s life ended peacefully after experiencing declining health in his last few years. He was a life-long educator who left a great legacy for students, colleagues, and his family. Throughout his 48 years in education, he was known for his energy, his integrity, his generosity, his attention to detail, and his love for students...encouraging them to fulfill their dreams through education and extra-curricular activities.

Jack was the youngest of four children born to Elmer and Vera Hallstrom of Avoca, Nebraska. Jack learned to play basketball at a young age. Jack and his brother, Tom, had originally planned to attend Doane College. However, after playing in a high school basketball tournament at Peru State College, (PSC) where their team won, Jack received a $50 scholarship of-

8 The Stater

even before he was old enough to enter the Creighton University hitting both a double PeeWee league. Speaking with the Falls City and a home run from the plate while, from the Journal, Kelley recalled, “Baseball was always mound, holding the Bluejays to just three hits. so much fun to play. It’s not like football where In 1962, the Bobcats won the Nebraska you wake up the next morning and you’re stiff College Conference championship, thanks in and sore. You can play every day and there are large part to Kelley’s 7-0 conference record and so many skills involved.” his conference earned run average of 1.85.

February 9, 2014, Kelley was inducted in Kelley’s name is still present in the Bobthe Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame for his cat baseball record books. Among the top ten baseball career in Nebraska and beyond. Kel- pitching single season records, Kelley’s ERA’s ley earned his reputation as a hard-throwing rank in spots number 4 (1962, 1.48), 6 (1963, left-handed pitcher and first baseman play- 1.78) and 7 (1960, 1.89). Among the top ten sining for teams in Falls City, including the Elks gle season strikeouts, Kelley holds the number Midgets and American Legion. Kelley pitched two and three spots, for 82 strikeouts in 1962 his first career no-hitter at age 15 in a 1956 and 77 strikeouts in 1963. game against Talmage, leading his team to a In Peru State’s baseball pitching career re10-0 victory. He ended his 1957 summer season cords, Kelley’s name can be found among the with the Midgets with 150 strikeouts in 79 in- top ten in five of seven categories. He is ranked nings pitched, allowing only 45 hits that season. number three in career ERA (2.71), number By the time Kelley started his freshman year two in career victories (20), number six for caat Peru State in 1959, he had earned the nick- reer games started (31), number nine for career name “Machine Gun” and left a trail of victo- innings pitched (186) and he still holds the top ries for his Elks Midgets and Legion teams in spot for career strikeouts, at 256. ball fields throughout southeast Nebraska and In 1963 Kelley was presented with Peru southwestern Iowa.

State’s Bert Swenson Award, which at that At Peru State, Machine Gun Kelley contin- time was awarded to one outstanding athlete ued his baseball career under Coach Al Wheel- each year on the basis of character, personalier. Memorable games include a 1961 match- ty, scholarship, loyalty to school traditions and up, where Kelley pitched a two-hitter against athletic participation. Kelley lettered in baseWayne State while also hitting three home runs ball all four years. Many in Bobcat nation will to gain a 7-0 victory. That same spring, Kel- recall that Ron Kelley also played football, but ley was instrumental in a 3-1 victory against that side of his athletic career will have to wait

for another article, perhaps one that will share news of another Hall of Fame induction.

Following his graduation from Peru State, Kelley signed with the Boston Red Sox organization and played in their minor league Class A affiliate in Waterloo, Iowa. He played for another minor league team in North Carolina, trained with the Pacific Coast League, and played in the Red Sox affiliated New York-Pennsylvania League. By this time, he had started a family with his wife Nancy, and he felt that a career in professional baseball was not in his future.

Kelley left the big leagues but continued to play on town and semi-professional teams in Nebraska. Those experiences still had some highlights, including his third career no-hitter in the 1969 Nebraska State Tournament, and a game-winning 380-foot home run to win the 1971 Nebraska State Championship tournament for Garland.

Following his baseball career, Kelley shared his passion for athletics as a teacher and coach, including three years as an assistant coach at UNO. He then served as principal of Lewis Central Elementary School in Council Bluffs for 24 years, before retiring to Falls City, back where his journey into the record books began.

Several Bobcats were on hand to celebrate Kelley’s induction into the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame, including classmates Charlie Caverzagie of Plattsmouth and Ken and Jane Rhodus of Lincoln. Current Peru State head baseball coach Wayne Albury also attended, to cheer for this Bobcat one more time.

fer to attend PSC. Jack and Tom both decided to attend PSC instead of Doane College (the night before they were supposed to arrive at Doane).

Peru State College is where he met Nancy Hardy. They married and had five wonderfully accomplished children, three girls and two boys. The youngest, Jerry Hallstrom, passed away in November of 2010.

Jack started his teaching career as a math teacher and coach in Lewiston, NE. He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean Conflict then came home to teach at Monroe Junior High in Omaha for six years while also working summers at the Omaha Home for Boys. Jack spent three years as principal of Mount View Elementary, two years as assistant principal and athletic director at Benson High School, and eight years as principal of Monroe. In 1971 he became the first principal of Northwest High School where he remained for 18 years. In 1991 he was elected Douglas County Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Jack knew all of the students in his buildings and made his mark on their lives. Students remember that he was always quick to provide

state president and District II president of Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals; president of Phi Delta Kappa, and Douglas County Superintendent of Schools.

Jack and Nancy were members of St. Paul United Methodist Church for over 50 years.

Jack lost Nancy in 2009 and in her honor, he arranged for memorial benches to be placed around the the PSC campus...11 total.

Jack leaves behind daughter Ann Hallstrom of Keller, TX; daughter Jane and Roger Roenfanz of Hudson, WI; son John and Donna Hallstrom of Indianola, IA; and daughter Linda and Tom Harman of Blair, NE; 14 grandchildren: Joseph and Merritt Bartley, Anika Cooper, Emily and Luke Duenser, Lindsey and Travis Nixa, Parker Roenfanz, Jon and Brandi Hallstrom, Jordan Hallstrom, Will Harman, Eileen Harman, and Cal Harman; 9 great-grandchildren: Joseph Bartley, Aiden Wallace, Noah Duenser, Kennedy Duenser, Bode Nixa, Tyler Hallstrom, and Addison Hallstrom; brother Bob and Ethel Hallstrom; brother Tom and Dorothy Hallstrom; brother-in-law Francis Garcia; brotherin-law Andy and MaryRose Hardy; nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

guidance, or sometimes needed discipline and direction. He inspired students with his actions, his professionalism, and his willingness to treat all fairly.

Throughout his career, Jack was a member or an officer in a number of organizations including: the Nebraska Association of Secondary School Administrators, Omaha School Administrators Association, Nebraska North Central Accreditation Committees, Nebraska State PTA, Peru State College Foundation, the Omaha-Area Peru Alumni chapter, Peru State College Hall of Fame, Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame, and the Omaha Public Schools Hall of Fame. He was named “Nebraska Principal of the Year” in 1988 and received a Distinguished Service Award from Peru State in 1995. The Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals Friend of Education (NSASSP) “Jack Hallstrom Friend of Education” award was established in his honor for his exemplary dedication to students and leadership in the association. Jack also served on the board of directors of several organizations: founder and state president of Nebraska Association of Retired School Administrators;

John Hahn “Although slight of build, a true giant among men.”

The rolling hills of Peru State College have seen their fair share of residents through the years, but very few of those residents have touched the lives of the entire Peru community.

Dr. John Hahn was born in Korea on November 2, 1922, but at the young age of 14, Hahn went to Japan to finish his education. He received a law degree from Chuo University in Tokyo and soon began a career as a reporter for a daily newspaper, back in his home country of Korea. When the Korean War began, Hahn was hired as a correspondent and managing editor for a news agency back in Tokyo, Japan.

In 1956, Hahn traveled to the United States, to further his education. He received an MA in journalism from the University of Minnesota, followed by a PH.D. in political science from the University of Cincinnati. After being in the United States for 18 years, Dr. Hahn even-

Jud Douglas

tually became a naturalized American citizen in 1974.

1968 began Dr. Hahn’s 25 year career at Peru State College. His courses included American National Government, American Constitutional Law, State and Local Government, Comparative Government and American History, just to name a few. Dr. Hahn developed unique relationships with his students.

His teaching methods and genuine respect for the students made him a favorite among Peru State’s faculty.

You could not find a more devoted sports fan than John Hahn. Calling him a true blue Bobcat would be an understatement. If any of the Peru athletic teams (especially baseball) had a game, you could almost always count on Dr. Hahn to be cheering them on from the stands. . His friends and neighbors became more like family to Hahn, being so far away for his own family.

Dr. Hahn retired from Peru State College in 1993, as Professor Emeritus, and he remained a citizen in his beloved little Nebraska town until his death. Hahn was very proud of his involvement with his community. Being so far away for his own family, Hahn forged lifelong relationships with his friends, colleagues

and fellow Peruvians, even after many of them moved on to other places. After his retirement, it was not uncommon for Dr. Hahn’s former students, neighbors or fellow faculty to correspond with him from all over the world.

Hahn cherished the little things about his life in Peru, like the regular coffee gatherings with his fellow retired teachers, or his vegetable and flower gardens, or the gorgeous view of Peru’s landscape from his apartment windows and his occasional trips to the boats for one of his favorite past times of playing the slot machines. But most of all Dr. Hahn cherished the people who had made his life special.

Dr. Hahn passed away on August 25, 2013, leaving behind a sister and several nieces and nephews in Korea, as well as many beloved friends, colleagues and former students, here in the United States. The hills of Peru will never quite be the same with Dr. Hahn no longer marveling at the their beauty, but everyone who knew him, will forever remember the impact that he had on Peru, not only on the students he taught, but anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

“Although slight of build, a true giant among men.”- Nebraska State College System board member, Bob Engles, of Dr. Hahn.

Jud’s life: his family, his work, Husker football, Jud’s passion for his career is what led him his friends and fellow army comrades, and of to be, what Joyce calls, “a visionary,” in the course, education. banking industry. As leader of the Farmers Jud Douglas III was born on May 29, 1937, State Bank of Cook, Jud grew the single office in Tecumseh Neb., to parents, Judson Douglas of $6 million to an $88 million bank, serving Jr and Helen (Naeve) Douglas. He graduated all of Southeast Nebraska in eight office lofrom Tecumseh High School in 1955. After cations. As co-author of a banking method attending two years at Wentworth Military known as “Phantom Banking,” Jud was able to Academy in Missouri, Jud came to Peru State help other small banks across Nebraska reach College (PSC) for two summers, eventually their potential and allow for statewide branch earning his degree from The University of Ne- banking. braska Lincoln (UNL).

Jud Douglas’s success was not limited to his During his military service, Jud rose to the work. Jud served as a member of the board rank of Colonel, serving both in active duty of directors for several organizations, includand the reserves as an armor officer. Upon his ing the Peru State College Foundation and retirement Colonel Douglas was awarded the the Brownville Village Theatre. Jud was also Legion of Merit in recognition of his 30 years a member of Delta Upsilon Fraternity out of of military service.

UNL. He was a 50 year member of MasonEven as a child Douglas loved the banking ic Lodge 23 in Pawnee City. Jud was also inindustry and developed an understanding of volved with the Sesostris Shrine and served as the importance of a bank in rural communi- a deacon and elder of his church. ties, by watching his grandfather in their family Jud worked to create scholarships opporowned, Farmers Bank of Cook, so it was no tunities at Peru State College, even personally surprise that Jud chose to go into banking him- funding a scholarship, which he named in honself. or of his mother, Helen Naeve Douglas.

Jud Douglas Early in to Jud’s career, he was employed On top of everything, Jud was a devoted On January 13, 2014, the Peru State College by the Nebraska Department of Banking, and family man, who leaves behind his wife, Joyce; Foundation said goodbye to a long-time friend in 1971, he became the chief of loan guaran- his son and daughter-in-law, Justin and April; and board member, Judson ( Jud) Douglas. Jud ty at the Veterans Administration (VA) office. and two granddaughters, Alexandra and Jacwas laid to rest after a battle with epiglottis can- While working at VA, Jud met his future wife quelyn; along with many other relatives who Joyce, and they were married on August 20, adored him. cer.

There were many things that brought joy to 1977.

Bob Gulland Earns His Degree and a Whole Lot More From Peru State College When Bob Gulland walked on to the Campus of a Thousand Oaks for his first class, he was not a baby-faced eighteen-yearold fresh out of high school. Instead, Bob was an established middle-aged man with a wife and a job. A serious injury at his job left Bob with severe mobility issues in his lower back and neck and also pulverized the arch in his right foot.

After a lot of thought, it was decided that getting his degree would be the best way to get Bob back in the work force.

With the assistance of Social Security/ Disability payments, Bob was able to enroll at Peru State College.

“I went to Peru State and found the school not only accepted me as a student, but actually welcomed the life experiences I brought with me. With wonderful teachers, and perhaps above all, tutors who were able to help and to reassure me about my ability to keep up with others. I found new interests and new abilities, such as the ability to write. Who knew I would actually like writing?”

In December of 2013, Bob Gulland graduated with honors with a double major in marketing and systems management and human performance. Right away, Gulland began his employment search, so he could put his education to use. The search ended quickly when he was selected from a pool of more than fifty applicants to become the Richardson County Deputy Registrar of Deeds. Because of his relevant college education from Peru State College, Bob was able to rejoin the workforce. Once Bob was sworn in by the Richardson County Clerk, he called to remove himself from the Social Security/Disability recipient list.

“You could have heard a pin drop as I talked to the lady on the other end of the line that represented the Social Security/ Disability department. I told her I was holding a full time position and I wanted to stop receiving disability.”

Congratulations to Bob Gulland, the definition of a true blue Bobcat.

The Stater

9

Peru State Alum, Dorothy Rieke Visits The Campus of a Thousand Oaks and Returns to the Center School

Above: Dorothy Rieke standing infront of The Little Red School House.

The Little Red Schoolhouse is dedicated to all of the teachers that taught rural school children there throughout the years. This little building has come full circle for Dorothy Rieke. She received her teaching education from Peru State College and then she began her teacher career in this one room School when it was located near Julian, Neb.

A Lasting Impact Through this scholarship fund, the legacies of Dr. Lois Christensen and Phyllis Davidson will continue to pave the way for future students working to achieve the dream of a college education.

Dr. Lois Christensen began her college career in 1942. World War II and her need to work quickly interrupted it. She returned in 1946 and graduated in 1948 with a degree in history. Lois also worked her way through a master’s degree at Peru State, but then was told by several doctoral programs that they did not accept women.

Lois persevered and earned her Ph.D. in history from the University of Nebraska.

Dr. Christensen was hired by the histo-

10 The Stater

Dorothy (Wilberger) Rieke grew up on a farm near Julian, Neb., and from a very young age, Dorothy knew she wanted to be a teacher.

Both Dorothy’s mother and grandmother had been teachers, earning their educations at nearby Peru State College (PSC). Education was something Dorothy’s family valued highly.

At the age of just 16, Dorothy graduated from Nebraska City High School and immediately began her education to earn her teaching certificate. In 1947, teachers were not required to have a bachelor’s degree, so after twelve hours of college courses from Peru State College (PSC) and a passing score on her Teachers’ Examination, Dorothy received her third grade teaching certificate.

Dorothy would soon find herself entering the front door at her first teaching assignment in the Nemaha County District 65, or commonly known as the Center School, which was located only 3 miles south of her family farm.

Her first class contained 14 students, two students for each grade except 8th.

Full of anticipation and confidence from the start, Dorothy embarked on her 44-year career as a teacher: two years as a rural schoolteacher at The Center School, nine years teaching high school english and thirty-three years

teaching english in the Auburn Middle School, more than 50 magazines and publications such where she was awarded teacher of the year in as Farm and Ranch Living, Country Woman, 1985.

Miami Police Chief Magazine Midwest OutDorothy worked hard and was able to doors, Creative Classroom, The Nebraskan, continue her education. She saved her earn- Teacher of Vision… ings and took out small loans from a bank in Although writing is what brought Dorothy Nebraska City. In 1960 she received the AK- a new creative flow after her retirement, it is SAR-BEN scholarship. Dorothy eventually her historical presentations of oral traditions, earned her bachelor’s degree in english educa- that has allowed her to experience many new tion and her master’s in education, both from things and fill the small void left without stuPeru State College. dents to teach everyday. Dorothy works for The Center School was a small brick struc- the Nebraska Humanities, traveling all over ture built in 1905 for the rural children of Ju- Nebraska to give her oral interpretations of lian, Neb. In 2001, the state of Nebraska did historic experiences and stories. Her presentaa project to widen Hwy. 75, where the school tions have allowed her and her husband, Kenny was located. It was clear that the Center School to visit new places and to create some fun stobuilding would not survive the construction. ries of their own. Dorothy’s presentation tales Instead of letting it be demolished, the whole include, “Nebraska Farm Families During the building was disassembled brick by brick and Great Depression” and “Ghosts Ghouls and brought to Peru State College’s Campus of a Goblins.” Dorothy is entertaining and teachThousand Oaks and reassembled just south of ing all while passing down the importance of the TJ Majors building, where it still stands to history through the oral tradition. this day and has been renamed, The Little Red It was Dorothy’s unique career, and histoSchoolhouse. The building is dedicated to all ry with Peru State College and the Little Red of the teachers that taught rural school children Schoolhouse, that brought her and Kenny for a there throughout the years. This little building recent visit to the Campus of a Thousand Oaks. has come full circle for Dorothy Rieke. She re- First stop was, of course, the Little Red Schoolceived her teaching education from Peru State house. The emotional experience of reuniting College and then she began her teacher career this seasoned educator with the place that startin the Center School. ed her career was enough to bring chills.

After retiring from teaching, feeling a little To Dorothy Rieke, Peru State College is lost, Dorothy began writing. Dorothy opted more than just an educational institution, it is to take several professional and creative writ- where she began her career in education, it is ing courses from Universities in Nebraska, where her family has earned their educations Wisconsin and Oklahoma. Twenty-Nine years for generations, and it is home to the place that of writing about a variety of topics has left her her love of the classroom was born. Dorothy is with an outstanding list of published works in definitely, “living blue.”

ry department of California State University, writing “Because there was, by law, no intercolChico in 1957, eventually rising to the rank of legiate competition for women while she was at full professor. She also served as Dean of the Peru, her abilities as a coach will go unrecogSchool of Humanities and Fine Arts at Chi- nized.” However, thanks to Lois’s nomination, co. In 1968, she was recognized with a cam- Davy is recognized in the athletic Hall of Fame pus-wide distinguished teaching award. She is for her meritorious service to the college. remembered by some of her former students In an even more powerful tribute, Lois as an inspiring teacher and one of only a few helped to create the Phyllis Davidson Memofemale faculty members at Chico State in those rial Scholarship in 1983. It is awarded to a volearlier years. Lois’s career lasted nearly 30 years, leyball player majoring in physical education and she retired in the 1980s. with a financial need. Lois faithfully supported Perhaps because of her status as one of a this scholarship with regular contributions for few female faculty members, during her life- the rest of her life. In 2003, Lois became a time, Lois chose to honor one of Peru State’s charter member of Peru State’s 1867 Society. female faculty members, Phyllis Davidson, The 1867 Society recognizes people who have known by many as “Davy.” Davy taught at included the Peru State College Foundation in Peru State from 1927-1959. During her three a will or estate plan. After becoming a member decades at Peru State, Davy pioneered women’s of the 1867 Society, Lois had an accident. She athletics and founded the long-running High expressed a fear that her savings were being School Girls’ Volleyball Invitational. In 1985, diminished by medical expenses, and that she Lois led the nomination of Phyllis Davidson would be unable to make the final contribution to the athletic Hall of Fame. Lois was not at she had planned. all certain her nomination would be successful, In May 2013 Dr. Christensen passed away,

but through her estate she made a generous contribution to insure that the Phyllis Davidson Memorial Scholarship will continue. Students at Peru State will experience Lois’s lasting impact for decades.

Through this scholarship fund, the legacies of Dr. Lois Christensen and Phyllis Davidson will continue to pave the way for future students working to achieve the dream of a college education. Lois would be gratified to know that she was able to make a contribution after all. And, if she were still with us today, Phyllis Davidson would be so pleased to read in Lois’s obituary that along with her many professional accomplishments, Lois also enjoyed “playing golf, bowling, tennis” and “watching football, baseball, golf and tennis on TV.” An athlete and a sports fan until the end. Thank you, Phyllis Davidson. Thank you, Lois Christensen.

If you would like to learn about how to make a lasting impact by including Peru State in your will or estate plan, please call the foundation office at 402-872-2304.

2014 Peru State Commencement Peru State College (PSC) held its annual commencement ceremony Saturday, May 10 in the Al Wheeler Activity Center, where 390 students earned degrees.

The ceremony honored several individuals such as, Associate Professor of Exercise Science Dr. Kyle Ryan who was honored as Peru State’s 2014 Teacher Excellence Award winner.

Businessman Lee Sapp was awarded an honorary Doctorate for his support of education in Nebraska.

Two posthumous degrees were awarded to PSC students who passed away before they could receive their degree. Adam (Red) Gene Urwin passed away on July 29, 2013, at the age of 24. Adam was a criminal justice/justice counseling major. Adam’s diploma was accepted by his brother, Michael Urwin. Debra Lynn Lear passed away on November 12, 2013, at the age of 54. Debra was a criminal justice/psychology major. Debra’s diploma was accepted by her husband, John Lear.

Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to a reception on the Campus Quad. The Hoyt Street Jazz Ensemble provided entertainment.

Above: 2014 graduates along with their friends, family and Peru State Faculty and staff members enjoy the annual post commencement ceremony reception and celebration on the Peru State campus quad.

Above: Graduates in their caps and gowns walking to the Al Wheeler Activity Center sporting ear to ear grins as they prepare to receive their degrees.

Phi Beta Lambda Headed to National Competition

President Hanson awarding a diploma to Brenden Whitted (‘14)

Brooke Earnest (‘14)

At least 25 members of Peru State’s chapter of Phi Beta Lambda (PBL), a state and national business and leadership association, will represent Nebraska at the association’s National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tenn., in June.

The students earned a trip to nationals after placing in a variety of competitive events at the 2014 Nebraska PBL State Leadership Conference in Kearney. The Peru State chapter of PBL as a whole was honored at the statewide conference with the Gold Excellence Award for their commitment to the organization by participating in various community service projects and other activities.

Peru State Associate Professor of Business and PBL Advisor Dr. Sheri Grotrian-Ryan, who was named Nebraska PBL Advisor of

the Year, said, “The Peru State students had another phenomenal year with Phi Beta Lambda! Our past successes have resulted in an increased interest in our local chapter and I look forward to that trend continuing. The success of these students is not only demonstrated by their efforts at the State Leadership Conference, but also with their service to the campus and neighboring communities.”

The competition focused on a wide range of business- and leadership-related tests, including subjects ranging from financial analysis and economic concepts to human resource management and business ethics.

Typically, the top three places in objective testing events automatically qualify for national competition; the top two places in performance events qualify for national competition.

Since national participants can only compete in two events, other Peru State students who placed in the statewide competition have an opportunity to move up in the rankings and compete at nationals.

For a list of finishers visit www.peru.edu/ media/news/14/5/13-1335.html.

The Stater 11

Eric Behrens to lead Peru State Men’s Basketball Program

Above: Peru State College Athletic Director Steve Schneider, coach Eric Behrens, and President Dr. Dan Hanson address questions at the press conference announcing Coach Behrens appointment as head men’s basketball coach at Peru State College.

Eric Behrens comes to Peru State College after spending the last 13 years as head boys’ basketball coach at Omaha Central High School where his teams have captured seven state titles.

During those seven championship seasons, the Eagles’ combined record was 17325. Behrens’ overall record as head coach is 283-58.

President Dan Hanson said, “I want to welcome Coach Behrens to the Peru State family. His energy, enthusiasm and passion for the sport of basketball are exactly what we need to take Bobcat basketball to the next level.”

Athletic Director Steve Schneider said, “Coach Behrens’ success as a coach speaks for itself, but I am most impressed with his character, ability to build relationships and his commitment to excellence. Peru State is positioned well for success and Eric Behrens is the right person for the job. We are eager to welcome him to our team and look forward to supporting him as he works to achieve the goals he sets for the men’s bas-

Bobcat Volleyball Players Named to Capital One Academic All-District Team Two Bobcat Volleyball players earned National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) District 28 honors for the fall of 2013. Junior, Carrie Leirz, was named first team; and senior, Brittany Peterson, was named second team. Both exemplified many of the requirements needed to be nominated for this honor.

To be nominated, student-athletes must be a starter or important reserve with legitimate athletic credentials and have at least a 3.30 cumulative grade point average (on a 4.0 scale) in undergrad or graduate work. Information regarding a nominee’s academic and athletic accomplishments is considered, as are any career highlights.

Junior, Carrie Lierz, Holton, Kan., was named to the District’s First Team. Lierz’s list of accomplishments that led to her nomination included Dean’s List, Honors Program member, a Dr. LeRoy Walker Conference Nominee, a member of the Student Senate, a member of the Rules and Judiciary Committee, elected Residence Hall Association President, part of the Administrative Hearing Board, two time Letter Winner, part of the John Brown All-Tournament Team. With her team,

12 The Stater

Lierz received the AVCA Team Academic Award, the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) Sportsmanship Award and the NAIA Scholar Team Award.

Lierz and her team participate in volunteer and community programs such as: Peru Clean Up Day, Nemaha County Gives Back, Vacation Bible School, Feeding 44, CRU, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Lierz was also named as a 2013 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete.

Senior Brittany Peterson Orem, Utah has also been on the Dean’s list at PSC. Peterson was 2010 Central Valley Conference Second Team All-Conference, 2011 Central Valley Conference First Team All-Conference, Central Valley Conference All-Tournament Team, four time starter, four time letter winner, 2011 Vice President of Associated Student Body, Claws Out All-Tournament Team, American Volleyball Coaches Association Team Academic Award.

Peterson was also a member of the Bobcat volleyball team that received the HAAC Sportsmanship Award. Additionally, she was named as a 2013 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athlete.

ketball program.”

Behrens said, “I’m excited to accept the position of head men’s basketball coach at Peru State. It’s not easy to walk away from the incredible program we have built at Omaha Central, but the opportunity to coach at the collegiate level is one I can’t pass up. What impressed me most about Peru State is the passion that President Hanson, Athletic Director Schneider, Vice President (Michaela) Willis and their teams have for the Peru State community, their students and the men’s basketball program.”

Behrens was named 2007 Boys High School Coach of the Year by the Omaha World Herald and 2008 Boys High School Coach of the Year by the Lincoln Journal Star. He was also named Metro Basketball Coaches Association’s Class A Boy’s Coach of the Year in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2013.

Behrens earned a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) in 1999 and a master’s in secondary education from UNO in 2005.

Join us for the

Brittany Peterson

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Bobcat football season opener vs Midland University in the newly renovated Oak Bowl Stadium Saturday, September 6, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.

Carrie Leirz

Bobcat Cross Country

Katy Billings The 2013 season was a challenging one for the Peru State College (PSC) Cross Country team, beginning with a new coach starting late in to the season, and struggling to fill the roster, but the season ended with great momentum. Now the 2014 season brings another brand new coach and a very positive outlook to the future.

Katy Billings, (Auburn) began her work as the new coach on January 2, 2014. Billings,is a 2007 Peru State honors graduate with a degree in criminal justice administration. Billings began running when she was 12 years old and has continued to do so throughout her life. Her passion for running has allowed

her to compete in several contests and in October of 2013, she completed the Market to Market 50K Ultramarathon in Lincoln.

Coach Billings is working closely with the 2013 coach, Leah Wehenkle, who stepped down as head coach to return to college herself.

Even though she had a hard road in front of her, Coach Billings was optimistic about the future of the team.

Nearly all of the 2013 runners will graduate in May 2014, leaving Billings, with the task of recruiting a full squad.

In April, Coach Billings met her goal when she recruited 5 ladies to join the squads only returning runner, Christa Scott (Geneva).

The incoming freshmen recruits are, Samantha Carlson and Rachel Loecker. Carlson, a senior at Cozad High School, is a three-time state cross country championship participant. Loecker, a senior at Hartington Cedar Catholic, is a two-time Nebraska state cross country championship participant.

Both Carlson and Loecker have received many accolades throughout their high school careers.

Other runners who will be joining the 2014 roster are current PSC student, Leslie Kirkland, along with Rebecca Geib and Hannah Olson, who will be transferring from Highland Community College.

Billings will bring her extensive training and diversified experience to the cross country training schedule. Practices are scheduled to begin the first week of classes and the opening meet will be the Spoofhound Invitational in September. For more information about the Cross Country team and their schedule visit www.pscbobcats.com

Student Spotlight: Tyler Ford Named Capitol One All-American “Tyler has worked hard to achieve this success and has now set the bar high for himself and his Bobcat teammates.”

Tyler Ford is a junior offensive lineman and a criminal justice administration major with a 3.65 G.P.A. This Lincoln native helped pave the way for Peru State to lead the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) in rushing offense for the 2013 football season.

Ford was named to the 2013 Capital One Academic All-America® College Division Football Team. Ford is the only HAAC football player to earn the recognition for the 2013 season.

Several key aspects led to Ford’s selection for the Capital One honor, including maintaining a spot on the Dean’s list, serving as a Bobcat Elite leader and earning previous HAAC honors, as well as, being named to the 2012 Omaha World-Herald All-Nebraska First Team.

To be eligible for Academic All-America® consideration, a student-athlete must be a varsity starter or key reserve, maintain a cumulative G.P.A. of 3.30 on a scale of 4.00, have reached sophomore athletic and academic standings at his/her current institution and be nominated by his/her sports information director.

Ford was also named to the 2013 American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) All-America Team. Ford becomes the first Bobcat to receive this honor since 2006.

In addition, Ford was named Daktronics-NAIA Scholar Athlete, Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) First Team Offense and 2013 Beyond Sports Network (BSN)

Tyler Ford All America Second Team. He was also selected as 2013 NAIA USA Football News Small College Preseason All-American Honorable Mention.

Ford and his Bobcat offensive line teamates were the nation’s third-best rushing offense in the NAIA which was the best in the HAAC. In addition, the team had the NAIA’s fifth-highest total rushing offense.

Bobcat head coach Steve Schneider was pleased with Ford’s selection. Schneider noted, “Tyler has worked hard to achieve this success and has now set the bar high for himself and his Bobcat teammates.”

Now and then! Calling Peru State College Alumni...

Peru State College is seeking testimonials from PSC Alumni to share with future students, Marketing efforts, and use in publications. If you are willing to share your career success story, please submit a picture from your time at PSC and one current professional photo, along with a paragraph about your experience at Peru State. Please make sure to include when you graduated and what degree program you were in at PSC. The primary purpose of this is to make future and current students aware of the successes we share…

Send to: Peru State College Foundation, 600 Hoyt Street, Peru, NE 68421 -or- email: ggalardi@peru.edu

The Stater 13

Peru State College Foundation Honor Roll of Donors 2013 1930’s Mildred Jodry Vanderford (1933) 1940’s Lois Zwiebel Adams (1942) Frances Black Alcorn (1949) Alvina Steinmann Blaikie (1948) George Blocher (1948) Janet Ebers Blue (1941) Marcille Fass Bohling (1946) Delbert & Jean Bowers (1949) Rosa Weatherfield Brooks (1945) Joan Thickstun Buhrmann (1946) Mary Reschke Cashman (1945) Lois Christensen (1943) Wanda Shrader Conradt (1948) George Coupe (1947) Beunice Doty (1940) Dorothy Armstrong Elliott (1942) Densel Fankhauser (1944) William Fankhauser (1942) Rebanis Frankforter Gloye (1944) Josephine Citta Godown (1941) Richard Good (1948) Ted Graves (1942) Myrt Hall (1947) Thomas & Dorothy Hallstrom (1949) Margaret Spellman Harrold (1947) Ralph Hays (1942) Charles Henning (1947) Lura Arnold Herr (1948) Sara Lyons Hippe (1949) Phyllis Benson Hoffman (1941) Jackson Howard (1944) Virginia Stepan Hunt (1942) Lloyd & Mary Hunzeker (1949) Willard Hunzeker (1946) Max & Wilma Jackson (1942) Merritt Jensen (1940) Sidney & Patricia Johnson (1946) Nina Kanel Klaudt (1943) David Lang (1949) Verna Hahn Lang (1949) Melvin Larsen (1942) Pauline Millet Long (1946) Bob Luedke (1946) Harold Macomber (1943) Joan Johnson Marfice (1949) Richard Mastain (1946) Evelyn Stepan Neve (1946) Dorothy Moody Parks (1946) Nelda Lynch Peterson (1942) Nelle Runyan Pfister (1947) Marie Niemeyer Pupkes (1947) Willard Redfern (1949) Eldon Reutter (1947) Helen Wilberger Schacht (1940) Ruth Crook Steele (1948) Virginia Altaffer Stuhr (1943) Beulah Spoor Widga (1947) Evelyn Gatz Yanders (1948) 1950’s William & Lavonda Abernathy (1951) Jacqueline Pebley Adcock (1958) Larry Apel (1958) Ralph Aranza (1959) Loren Argabright (1954) Phyllis Heinke Atchison (1954) Clyde & Betty Barrett (1956) Grace Seeba Bentzinger (1953) Lois Harms Blinde (1955) Bob & Mary Bohlken (1959)

14 The Stater

Thomas & Leta Bosworth (1954) Clyde Broadston (1953) Gerald Carnes (1957) Larry Chambers (1953) John Christ (1955) Barbara Bragg Clayburn (1951) Fred & Marilyn Clements (1956) Rose Pfeifer Coe (1958) Lavon & Gleora Covault (1953) John & Ramona Crookham (1955) Nadine Knople Danielson-Cusack (1959) Bob Davis (1953) Pat Craney Davis (1952) Muriel Rieke Docker (1958) Jack Dodge (1959) Marlan & Marea Downey (1952) Ben & Carol Duerfeldt (1954) Dorothy Hawxby Duerfeldt (1952) Loren & Marilyn Dyke (1957) Ray Ehlers (1958) Ruth Hunzeker Elwell (1950) Gertrude Metzger Ettleman (1950) Phillip & Nadine Fahrlander (1959) Anna Lollman Falsken (1952) Vernal Faller (1955) Joan Schneider Gabrielle (1959) Wilma Bohling Geyer (1951) Donald Gibson (1958) Lois Wilton Giles (1958) John Gilmore (1957) Ilene Thiltges Good (1953) Ray & Gwen Graves (1953) Lorrain Haack (1958) Jack Hallstrom (1950) Carlos Harrison (1951) Rodney Heim (1958) Bob & Carolyn Henry (1959) Kenneth & Mary Hoag (1954) Patricia Lincoln Holmes (1954) Greta Evers Holscher (1955) Walter & Peggy Huff (1959) Gary Hull (1959) Norma Boyer Johnson (1954) Claude Johnson (1957) Janet Christensen Joyce (1956) Jo Colby Kaffenberger (1953) Mary Hinrichs Kellogg (1951) Wilma Klein Kelly (1959) Monica Zack Kelso (1957) Margaret Svoboda Kilibarda (1959) Donna Kunc Knoche (1951) Elaine Stevenson Koenig (1956) Shirley Stutheit Krejci (1956) Lorain & Joan Krueger (1953) Chuck & Elaine Krumme (1957) Richard Kumpf (1958) Phyllis Gess Lamb (1955) Gene & Mary Leber (1956) Bobby Livingston (1950) David Longfellow (1958) Gerald Ludwig (1958) Kenneth Majors (1959) Gary Mayfield (1958) Edith Wetenkamp McCaw (1954) Lois Puppe McMullen (1956) Shirley Buchholz Meinzer (1955) Dean & Marilynn Meisinger (1955) Janice Johnson Moen (1956) Maurice Moran (1952) Rosemary Kyle Morrill (1952) Marilyn Meyer Naggatz (1958) Sharon Ocker (1953) Lee Ogle (1957) Duane Overgaard (1956)

Nels Overgaard (1956) Ronald & Lila Paap (1955) Wesley Paap (1956) Dolores Porr Painter (1950) Jerry Payne (1958) Franklin Pedersen (1959) Grace Pfister (1951) Charles & Vickie Pickering (1956) Margaret Christy Piper (1954) Wayne & Gloria Pressnall (1959) Harold Rasplicka (1953) Otto Rath (1951) Dale Rexilius (1959) Elaine Beethe Roberts (1950) Ardith Patton Rockeman (1951) James & Joyce Rosenquist (1959) Jean & Dick Ruyle Rottman (1959) Annabelle Eis Rumbaugh (1951) Verlan & Gladys Rumbaugh (1957) Lester Russell (1951) Russell Ruth (1950) Robert Ryan (1952) William & Laverna Sayer (1955) Leroy Scheele (1959) Marjorie Peckham Scribner (1958) Bill & Janice Schulte (1953) Louise Marshall Searcey (1958) Curtis & Mary Sederburg (1954) Carolyn McFadden Sipes (1951) Charles Smith (1951) Carol Vogele Sparr (1958) Jean Higgins Thayer (1952) Dean & Eilene Thiesfeld (1952) Bob Utermohlen (1950) William Voegtli (1951) Marvidene Shown Warwick (1958) Anita Vanderford Webster (1955) Paul Weinert (1956) Donald & Vivian Wendt (1959) Carol Duerfeldt Whitcomb (1952) Fran Heim Whited (1953) Corinne Libal Wilkinson (1954) David Williamson (1952) Samantha Williamson (1959) Gayleen Wilson Zentner (1957) Ron & Fran Witt (1958) Kenneth Wolford (1950) Norma Thompson Wood (1951) 1960’s Velma Adam (1967) Garth & Gloria Adams (1967) Jim Agnew (1965) David Albert (1964) Monty & Judy Allgood (1963) Gary & Marian Anderson (1960) Steven Anderson (1969) Lee Arellano (1968) Rolan Axt (1960) Marlene Allgood Ballance (1960) JoAnn Hauptman Barry (1965) Jerry & Virginia Beckmann (1960) Linda Bertram Bell (1962) Mr. Benton Benton (1960) Glen & Patsy Beran (1962) Marvin Bergsten (1960) Diane Kennedy Berlett (1966) Arlan & Carolyn Biere (1964) Oliver & Janet Bierman (1966) Connie Erisman Biggers (1961) George Bleich (1965) Kenneth Boatman (1966)

Paul Bodtke (1963) Lonnie Bohling (1967) Raymond & Donna Boren (1966) Marilyn Glynn Borgerding (1961) Charles Bowman (1968) Thomas Bresnahan (1968) Laurel Elscher Brewer (1964) Lowell Brown (1967) Thomas Buchholz (1964) Buzz Burling (1968) James Butts (1969) Ken Carnes (1969) Norman Catlett (1961) Charles & Mary Caverzagie (1964) John & Dolores Clark (1967) Eston Clarke (1968) Larry & Norma Clinton (1963) Michael Chu (1965) Daniel & Carol Coffey (1965) Douglas Cotner (1968) Ron Cotton (1964) John Creamer (1969) Gene D’Allemand (1965) Jon Davis (1966) Janice Tucker-Rains Dawson (1964) Larry Eden (1966) Alfred Eickhoff (1965) Gayle Ellison (1967) Paul & Arlene Fell (1967) Richard & Beverly Floerchinger (1965) Diane Freet (1969) Gary Fritch (1966) Louis Fritz (1966) Doris Kresak Galbraith (1963) Roger & Janice Gardner (1963) Lee Garrett (1966) Lamarr Gibson (1961) Richard & Martha Gibson (1969) Larry Giesmann (1965) John Greene (1962) Dorothy Hajek Grell (1960) David & Linda Gomon (1965) Mike Guilliatt (1967) Duane Haith (1965) Pat & Karen Hamm (1963) Caroline Bliss Hatfield (1969) Carol Henderson Henning (1967) Mary Jones Hilt (1966) Margaret Beard Hormel (1963) Ellen Hunzeker Hajek (1962) James Hanks (1966) Clarence Haws (1969) Alvin Henrichs (1965) Lavelle Hitzemann (1969) Lonnie & Nancy Houchin (1966) Lee Haeberlein (1963) Mel Hamel (1963) Drexel & Mardell Harvey (1962) Larry & Marian Henderson (1969) Russell Hicks (1963) Larry & Palma Holding (1968) James Hall (1964) Michael & Cecilia Harmon (1966) Charlotte Rankin Heidelberger (1964) Judy Harrison/Beran Hetherington (1965) David Hoffman (1961) William Hunsaker (1964) Glenn Irwin (1962) Donald Jackson (1960) Gerald Jeanneret (1961) Eleanor Jenkins (1969) Stanley & Barbara Johnson (1968) Jerry & Christina Joy (1964)

Don & Nancy Kasbohm (1960) Ronald Kelley (1963) Barry Kennedy (1966) William Kerins (1968) Milan Kloepfer (1963) Jere & Jan Krakow (1960) JoAnn Frerichs Krause (1964) Linda Jeffers Kreimeyer (1964) Robert Krofta (1966) Sharylin Vrtiska Knock (1963) Daniel & Judith Knudsen (1966) Leroy & Linda Koehler (1969) Vernon Krenzer (1967) Richard & Joan Kunde (1960) Rodger Langemeier (1966) Carolyn Wing Law (1960) Robert Leander (1966) Harry Leth (1965) Dan Leuenberger (1965) Richard Linder (1969) Stanley Longfellow (1961) Roger Lucas (1967) Jerry & Charlotte Lunsford (1962) Sherry Seibert Marks (1969) Harold Marshall (1966) Sandra Craig Mathews (1961) Boyd Mattox (1965) Bruce & Linda Mau (1965) Darlene Critel McCord (1961) Michael McCormick (1966) Ron & Mary Lu McCoy (1967) Norma McIntosh McKercher (1965) Leonard McLain (1962) James Meacham (1963) Ray & Myrna Meister (1962) Norma Pugsley Meyer (1960) Haney & Karen Milstead (1961) Teresa Hummel Minard (1968) Chuck & Alice Mizerski (1969) Richard & Ramona Moore (1969) Linda Beery Moree (1963) Nancy McCullough Nealon (1967) Allen Nelson (1962) Gary & Verona Neumann (1967) Don Niemann (1961) Chuck Niemeyer (1965) Katherine Francis Nunnery (1966) Ronald Oestmann (1963) Gordon Ohnoutka (1962) Paul Oliphant (1966) Lynn & Pauline Osterholm (1961) Mariedith Greenlee Pagel (1965) Steve Parker (1963) Rose Clancy Parli (1961) Joseph & Susan Perina (1964) Terry Petsche (1968) Lois Marrs Pietzyk (1969) Mary Ann Graham Privatt (1963) Larry Poessnecker (1968) David & Pearl Rainforth (1969) Michael & Sandy Ramirez (1964) Samuel Rankin (1964) Robert Raper (1961) Keith & Lucille Rawson (1965) Robert Reitz (1963) Kenneth & Jane Rhodus (1962) Alan & Martha Bock Richard (1964) Gary Richey (1964) Robert Ridenour (1969) John Riley (1966) Dennis Rinne (1968) Bonnie Vanderford Robbins (1963) Michael Roddy (1961) James Rowe (1969) Lloyd & Betty Russo (1964) Mary Ruzicka (1964)

Ralph Schawang (1968) Marilyn Sugden Scheinost (1969) Elaine Bath Schlange (1963) Gary & Mary Schlange (1963) Carol Hawley Schmucker (1967) Mary Lou Schriner (1968) Donna Francis Schwertley (1961) Stephen Sellergren (1963) Tom Sewell (1963) Chuck Shores (1968) Margaret Slayter (1966) Albert & Louise Smith (1969) Richard & Margaret Smith (1969) Tim & Sharon Smulling (1969) James Sprague (1966) James Stanosheck (1967) Dean Stapleton (1963) Bonita Kite Steinback (1964) Frances Sanders Steinbrook (1964) Kennard Stoner (1968) Gary Strange (1964) Carl Stukenholtz (1964) Allan Sullivan (1967) Larry & Ramona Swett (1963) Leonard Tomlyn (1967) Barbara Behrns Vaughn (1967) Joe Verbeek (1960) Bruce Vickrey (1968) Joe & Kathleen Ward (1965) William Witty (1966) Donald Wright (1965) 1970’s Van Allen (1970) Robert Applegate (1976) Helen Klein Aufenkamp (1972) Virginia Ottemann Baack (1979) James Bailey (1972) Jeffrey & Mary Barker (1974) Janet Vance Barlow (1977) Bob Beaver (1973) Vicki Hall Beilke (1972) Annie Billings Berkheimer (1979) Robert Bethel (1978) David Bierbaum (1971) Lora Lunzmann Black (1977) Leon & Renee Bose (1971) Joyce Gadeken Boslau (1979) Neal Bower (1971) Shari Olderog Briese (1972) Earl Brown (1972) Rodrick & Wanda Bruce (1972) Evelyn Erhart Bruns-Seybert (1972) Jody Bukacek (1971) Rhonda Gobber Burbach (1977) John Chatelain (1976) Paul Chatelain (1972) Rhonda Ahl Chomos (1978) Larry Cotton (1970) Robert Craig (1975) Dennis Curtis (1970) James Desbien (1973) Linda Doty Dickeson (1976) James & Dianne Dickson (1972) John Dierking (1977) Don & Claudia Dougherty (1970) Donald & Ruth Gottula Doxon (1977) Rose Maloy Duncan (1971) Barbara Richard Easley (1970) Elizabeth Lovitt Ebeler (1970) Cheryl Bruns Edmisten (1979) Bob Engles (1973) Berton Faulkner (1970) Gene Finke (1970) William & Anne Fitzgerald (1978) Susan Foster (1973) John Furlong (1972)

Larry & Sue Green (1971) Mary Green (1974) Peggy Kreifels Groff (1976) Jay Hagerman (1972) Mark & Kim Hahn (1973) Rena Meritt Hall (1973) William Hallock (1975) Susan Hanley (1972) Gail Harmon (1976) Lynn Sailors Harris (1970) Ted Harshbarger (1977) Bonnie Stemper Hiykel (1973) Jayne Hlavac (1971) William Hosack (1975) Mary Hill Howery (1974) Danny Jeanneret (1973) Essie Jefferson (1971) Michael Johnson (1971) Annie Jones Jones-Rucker (1976) Ronald Jones (1970) Kenneth Kamman (1973) Kathy Gregory Kelly (1975) Richard & Penny Kimball (1978) Doug Kingery (1975) Janet Nixon Kirkendall (1974) Robert Kiser (1971) Charles Klingler (1972) Mary Kloepping (1970) David Koll (1973) Douglas Kottich (1972) Denise Coupe Kurpgeweit (1979) Harriett Smith Leech (1972) Randy Luther (1973) Steve & Shirley Lewis (1979) Robert Lisec (1971) James Landwehr (1974) Maureen Duffy Losee (1977) Daisy Berry Malcom (1971) Maureen Stutheit Marshall (1970) Darwin McHugh (1971) Bob McKelvey (1975) Dorothy Hild Meisinger (1976) Ronald & Susan Meyer (1971) Roger Michaelis (1973) Sandy McCord Miles (1972) Rodney & Janie Montang (1971) Elaine Grundman Moore (1970) Linda Morris (1970) Terry & Marlene Neddenriep (1974) Gary & Glenda Nelson (1971) Dennis & Carole Obermeyer (1970) Jeffrey & Mary Pease (1979) Robert & Judy Peterson (1972) William Peterson (1972) Beverly Pietzyk-Hardy (1979) Thomas Pitts (1971) Jon & Debra Pugh (1979) Terry Ratliff (1972) Kathleen Hoemann Rattell (1972) Lois Rieschick (1970) Dennis Robertson (1973) Gary Rosso (1970) Robert & Beth Rut (1973) David Sackles (1970) Jeffrey Scanlan (1978) Larry Schwan (1970) Mary Priefert Scott (1978) Irene Rogge Seeba (1974) Alan Seybert (1976) Patricia Sheehan (1973) Joan Bachenberg Shurtliff (1972) Jodi Siegner (1974) Melissa Ross Sis (1972) Janice Henning Smith (1974) Susan Wenzel Snodgrass (1975) Jack Stanley (1974)

Holly Barter Steffens (1979) Dave Stemper (1977) Steven Stemper (1972) Debra Anderson Stinn (1975) Gerald Stukenholtz (1972) Willa Sodmann Stutheit (1971) Gayle Swisegood (1974) Theresa Krontz Symancyk (1975) Sherry Taylor (1978) Esther Preston Tegtmeier (1972) Ernie Templeton (1973) Dean Teten (1972) John Trayer (1975) Jon Tritsch (1972) Richard & Lisa Tynon (1978) Ricki Fictum Valentino (1972) Julie Bane Vasey (1977) Lois Vavra (1976) Sara Johnson Veigel (1971) John Vickers (1973) Dominic Vitticore (1972) Roger & Linda Vogel (1972) Don Walford (1972) Rod Wartman (1974) Raymond Waters (1972) Mark & Kathleen Weiler (1971) Kathie Cummings White (1978) Rod White (1978) Donald Wiechec (1970) Lanny & Mary Williams (1971) James Wilson (1972) Kent & Nancy Wilson (1972) Lance Wilson (1978) Lonnie Wing (1970) Raymond & Carol Woerlen (1976) Mary Wenzl Wolfe (1971) Nancy Pease York (1971) Wayne & Dee Young (1979) 1980’s Todd & Brenda Anderson (1986) Stacy Applegate (1980) Lonnie Bane (1980) Mark Bartholomew (1989) Leroy & Diana Behrends (1985) Colleen Krzycki Belitz (1989) Judith Vaughan Bennett (1988) Timothy Boerner (1983) Ron Brockhaus (1988) Daniel Casey (1987) Ronda Schroeder Chab (1984) Carol Wilton Chappell (1986) Carolyn Siske Christen (1984) Amy Goering Clark (1987) Polly Clark (1983) Sharon McCorkle Clelland (1984) Curtis Cogswell (1984) Janelle Wendelin Comer (1989) Shelley McAdams Cygan (1981) Janet Dunn Dingman (1982) Wayne Dolezal (1985) SaraBeth Donovan (1985) Barbara DuBois (1983) Mary Rademacher Findeis (1980) Jack & Mary Frary (1987) Russ Freitag (1983) Naomi Leakey Furnas (1985) Michael Gerdes (1988) Mary Shaffer Grimes (1989) Ronda Hamilton (1981) Don Hardekopf (1980) Rev. Harrison Harrison (1984) Krystal Bors Hays (1988) Martin Haverty (1982) Vince & Bonnie Henzel (1986) Sherry Biere Heskett (1982) Tim & Cindy Hoffman (1984) Anita Downing Hueftle (1988)

The Stater 15

Carol Isaac (1986) Mark Joy (1983) Kenneth Juhl (1986) Mary Kenady (1986) Dara Allgood Kirkbride (1981) Karen Britt Koehler (1982) Lee & Rebecca Kohrs (1982) Shari Paczosa Kucera (1985) Peggy Hall Kuser (1989) Tedd Lamprecht (1987) Michael & Cynthia Liewer (1981) Daryl Meints (1987) Kathi Flanagin Mercure (1987) Patrick Mertens (1986) Barbara Miller (1988) Jack Moles (1980) Patricia Garton Moon (1988) Ritchie Nelson (1986) Ricky Neubauer (1981) Delwinn & Ginny Novell (1980) Kimberly Kuhlman Oliver (1983) Dale Ossowski (1989) Mark Paneitz (1987) Georjean Schimke Perez (1985) Mari-Ann Henry Pesek (1987) Elizabeth Roney Pieters (1989) Joseph Primm (1980) Kent & Becki Propst (1981) Kevin Rahner (1987) Kathy Reierson (1989) Randy Reeves (1987) Susan Balfour Rice (1987) Dave Rossell (1982) Ward & Melissa Ruge (1986) Virginia Hazen Schlender (1981) Scott & Tina Schmidt (1984) Stephanie Mowry Shrader (1984) Loren Schrier (1985) Beverly Hawkins Schwab (1988) Ann Scheitel Severin (1986) Roselyn Burd Shaffer (1984) Jeffrey Slagle (1986) Teresa Ebeler Smith (1984) Diane Coover Thomas (1984) Al Urwin (1982) Scott VanderVeen (1988) Mark & Diana Watton (1982) Darrell & Tami Wellman (1982) Jeff Wignall (1983) Karen Gerking Wolken (1984) Valorie Zentner (1986) 1990’s Brenda Huber Adkins (1995) Ed Ankrom (1991) Tony Anville (1991) Christopher & Alicia Aue (1998) Carrie Barbaglia (1996) Julie Ramsey Bauman (1995) Theresa Schuster Baumgartner (1992) Susan Arnold Baylor (1990) Jodi Hytrek Becker (1991) Lori Alexander Bellar (1990) Jennifer Berck (1995) Joe Boman (1994) Brian Boyce (1991) Kimberly Horsham Brigham (1992) Deborah Larson Breuer (1999) Jason & Nancy Brewer (1992) Gregory & Penny Brewer (1999) Joan Brown (1999) Shane & Amy Buresh (1997) Susan Den Cade (1992) Kevin Caverzagie (1990) John & MaryAnn Chaney (1991) Wei Chong (1992) Terry & Anita Clark (1992)

16 The Stater

Amy Russell Clark (1997) Sharilyn Sanner Cole (1990) Diana Conradt-Mullen (1993) Chan Crooker (1998) Denise Meyer Daake (1992) Melissa Bellows Decker (1992) Steven DeFreece (1993) Peter Dennis (1994) Delores Diaz (1994) Teri Dorn (1999) Scott & Amy Douglas (1999) Michael Ervin (1994) Jason & Kimberly Esser (1995) Jean Everhart (1992) Trudy Carsh Fankhauser (1993) Dewey Fingar (1995) Bret Fritch (1990) Cathy Fugleberg (1999) Stephen Gaines (1995) Jeffrey Hammer (1997) Dee Hannaford (1995) Katherine Hilgenfeld Heim (1997) Troy & Michele Hendrickson (1992) Dee Henry (1991) Sandra Hilding (1991) Merry Holliday Holliday-Hanson (1991) Julie Olberding Holthaus (1994) Michael Hubert (1994) Merri Kolb Johnson (1992) Susan Slama Johnson (1998) Tina Johnson (1995) Celeste Nolte Jones (1999) David Jones (1992) Scott & Amy Jones (1993) Toby Julian (1996) Brett & Toni Landenberger (1994) Michelle Coates Manes (1993) Garrett & Linda Mann (1992) Holly Baumgartner Meyer (1990) Debra Morris Neely (1993) Lauri Jilg Novacek (1991) Marlene Oaks (1996) Julie Jobman Parde (1994) Thomas Proudfit (1996) Larry Rahe (1990) Korey Reiman (1995) Andrea Tee Rice (1997) Rachel Duede Richardson (1997) Tony Rieschick (1994) Jason Ross (1999) Benjamin & Jamie Royal (1995) John Sayer (1992) Steven & Erin Sayer (1990) Jeffrey & Audra Schawang (1995) Cynthia Sellers (1991) Scott Shepard (1991) Beth Ely Sickel (1992) Christopher Stangl (1994) Susan Marshall Steinkruger (1994) Jamie & Stacy Stinson (1998) Jason & Ronda Stinson (1998) Lori Lowe Tibbs (1993) Ross & Kelli Tomjack (1997) Tony & Mary Uhlir (1993) Alan Vervaecke (1990) Janice Volker (1990) Stephanie Lane Ware (1996) Miriam Graham Werner (1992) Tressa Whittington (1997) Ivan Wineglass (1994) Monica Alba Yankus (1997) Alexander Zambrano (1994) 2000’s Amanda Lindinger Adams (2005) Barbara Vech Anderson (2003)

Regan Anson (2010) Charles Benson (2005) Wende Olson Bergmeier (2007) Emily Boisseree (2012) Todd Bonnes (2010) David Bremer (2005) Wendy Brennan (2006) Cynthia Burki (2004) Jenifer Busing (2001) Kenneth Chmielewski (2009) Joanna Hays Cielocha (2006) Wade Coulter (2008) Harold Davis (2000) Nancy Woods Davis (2004) Stephanie Shandy Dearmont (2008) Adam & Promise Nelson DeBilzan (2011) Mandy Deters (2005) Bryan Doke (2004) Sarah Dorrel (2001) Laura Streffler Drake (2011) Jari Wehmeier Dunekacke (2007) Jeffrey Ely (2003) Jodi Evans (2010) Kent Freiburghouse (2011) Jeff Friedman (2009) Glenda Eaken Fralin (2006) Janice Frank (2007) Kyley Kidwell Gatz (2007) Charles Genuchi (2002) Raedeahna Gerdes (2010) Shontelle Gillespie (2003) Brad Griffin (2004) Colton Harris (2011) Amanda Hegge (2007) Matt Hill (2006) Robert Hollandsworth (2008) Karen Weber Horky (2001) Marnie Huschak (2004) Jeff Jedlicka (2008) Kitt Jenkins (2005) Steven Jirsa (2000) Tammy Kamin (2011) John Korthals (2009) Kelly Kurz (2011) Kristine Beverly Lajoie (2006) Nicole Larsen (2012) Robert Lopez (2010) Nathanial Lygrisse (2007) Sara Glathar Martin (2001) Gary & Stephanie Mercer (2005) Leighton Michaelson (2009) Jon & Beth Mierau (2000) Adam & Denise Miller (2000) Frankie Mossa (2011) Christine Nyffeler (2008) Charles Owen (2002) Lisa Parriott (2010) Clinton Pebley (2004) Kelly Scheel Price (2001) Sagrario Rangel (2004) Susan Binns Reynolds (2010) Darlon Rohlff (2002) Nathan Rolofson (2004) Carol Blex Schulte (2009) Whitney Sisco (2011) Montgomery Stanback (2004) Michael & Danni Stoddard (2007) Roger Virost (2004) Jamie Liberty Vonderschmidt (2000) Robert Williamson (2012) Friends Agricultural Services, Inc. Wayne & Joan Albury Virginia Argabright Vickie Arntt

Kelly Asmussen Assurity Life Insurance Company Ball Corporation Jeanyne Bang Edward & Margaret Bates Sally Becker TJ Beckert Valerie Bedell Amy & Andrew Behrends Friedmar Bendrat Michael Beveridge Kenneth Bias Black Hills Energy Sandra Blair Bob & Betty Blaser Hilary Bradford Gerry Brady Duane & Elaine Brand Carolyn Edwards Bredemeier Mike Brekke Martha Russell Brestel Angela Bridgmon Kristi & Ronald Briel Linda Brooke Everett Browning Sharon Bowen Patrick & Karen Boyd Chris Buethe Eulanda Cade Hugh Carman Diane Carpenter Kathy Carroll Casey’s General Store Caterpillar Foundation Central City Family Dental Lorrie Cerminara Yvonne Chandler Jane Brownell Cheek Janice Cherin Colleen Christensen Clinton Clark Donald Clark Bill Clemente ConAgra Foods Foundation Colleen & Monroe Conway Adrian Cotton Geraldine Coufal Sara Crook John Crotty Beverly Croushorn Lori Crump Steven Curran Wayne Davidson Helen Dixon Robert & Lesa Dixon Double D Plumbing And Heating Inc. Robert Dougherty Todd Drew Thomas Ediger Donna Edmondson Gregory Elliott Kathy Ensz F&M Bank Farmer’s Bank of Cook Barbara Farrow Seph Fauver FBL Financial Group Inc Leon Ferrari John Fettig First National Bank of Johnson First United Methodist Church Eric Franke Dorothy Freeland Dawn Friesel Ken & Donna Frohlich Richard & Sandra Fruehling

Janice Ford Mr. & Mrs. Foote Lisa Ford Pat Fortney Lexi Fudge Patricia Fuhrmann Michael Gabree Greg Galardi Jerry Gallentine General Electric Foundation Agnes & Michael Gesch Fred Gfeller Paul Gilbert Norma Gilmore Robert & Betty Gleason Juanita Goings Glade Goings Bill Graves Claude & Margaret Griffith Wendy Grimsley H & H Data Services, Inc. Gary Hahn Karen Hand Dan and Elaine Hanson De Ann Hanson Harold W. and Lois D. Struve Foundation Harris Foundation Bob Harsh Robert & Donnese Harsh Sue Harsh Janet Hawley Jake Hedden Bob & Carol Hemmingsen Mileidy Hernandez Robert Hess Ruby Higgins Calvin & Marlene Hinde James & Sheryl Holscher Dan & Alice Holtz Home Lumber Company Betty Horton Mose Howard David & Sheila Hull Linda Hull Lindsey Hull Mary & James Huettner Marlene & David Hunt Christy Hutchison John Jacobsen Rick Janssen JD Mobile Service & Repair Becca Jewell Derby Johnson Galen Johnson James and Donna Jorgenson Della Jurek Kathy Kidzville Inc Joe Kincaid Linda Kleven Bob Klontz Mary Jo Klusmire Chantell & Heath Koenig Kenneth Kohrs Ann & Thomas Korecky Catherine Kruse Paul & Loretta Kruse Tim & Cindy Kruse Brian Kurz Marc Kurz Kirk Kuwitzky Larry Smith & Associates Karen Larsen Guy & Debra Lewis Liberty Property Management Company Jeff & Jolene Lies Jean Lindell John Lindsay

Daryl Long David & Cindy Long Jennifer Long Patricia Longley Kathy Love Larry & Kayleen Lukasiewicz Carolyn Lyndes Maryam Lynch-Tate Shirley Majors Gary & Lisa Maresh Scott Massengale Maurice and Maedean Mathews Veronica McAsey Angela McAtee Mardy McCullough R.W. and Bonnie McEwen Marilyn McKinsey Chuck Mears Jean Medow Maxine Mehus Marie Meland Mike Mulvaney Foundation Johnny Mills Minter Funeral Chapel Linda Moody Marcia Muncy Nationwide Nebraska Community Foundation Greg & Shawn Nelson Pamela Nelson Robert & Kari Nelson Karen Neuman Robert Niedringhaus Kristi Nies Tyler Nutsch Janet Steck Nuzman Mrs. O`sullivan

Ervin & Karen Paben Troy & Lisa Paben Donald Page Perry & Joan Parks Deborah Parmer Morden Patterson Wyouida Patterson Teresa Perez-Howell Kristin Petersen David & Virginia Pippert Ralph & Phyllis Prewitt Monte Rasmussen Father Raybourn & Susan Raybourn Rodney & Brenda Reed Richardson County Bank Guy Rosenberg Kyle & Sheri Ryan Ronley & Lori Schultz Steve Schneider Greg & Darolyn Seay Shell Companies Foundation Robert Shively Todd Simpson Leonard Skov Christina Smith Kim Smith Bill & Shirley Snyder Antonia Spangler Theresa Speidel State Bank of Table Rock State Farm Companies Foundation Joe Stehlik Donald Steinmeyer Kim Streeter Faith Stuart

The Sullivan Agency Alan Sutton Cynthia & Joseph Svoboda Marlys Swenson-Waller Donna Tanner Rodger & Nancy Tognazzini Lindsey Toman Nancy Toner Keizaburo Tsuji Ryan Twehous Kathy Tynon Union Bank & Trust Union Pacific Company Rod Vandeberg Lou Varley Susan Volkmer Floyd Vrtiska Debbie & Wayne Watanabe Dennis Welsh Brian West Rick Whitaker Bradley & Amy White Jeffrey & Ilene Whittle Aaron & Amanda Wiegert Jackie Wilke Micki Willis Doc Wininger Cindy & Tom Witt Debbie Witt Richard & Susan Witt Brad & Donna Woodward Benjamin and Lanette Young Todd Young John Yowell Gary Zabokrtsky

Alumni Spotlight • For the seventh time, Mike Guilliatt tions and organizations in numerous indus- struction with an emphasis in technology, (Fremont, Neb.) has qualified as exclusive tries and lines of endeavor worldwide. The was named as the recipient of the 16th anTop of the Table of the Million Dollar Fellows are nominated for membership by nual William and Barbara Gerhold Family Round Table (MDRT)-The Premier Asso- current and former Fellows.

Teacher of the Year Award in the amount ciation of Financial Professionals. of $5,000: $1,500 for the teacher’s personal • Darren Tobey (Oxford, Neb.) was se- use, $1,000 for professional development Guilliatt is a 32- year MDRT member.

Top of the Table status is the highest level lected as the 2013 NSIAAA District V Ac- and $2,500 for the teacher to use to benefit of MDRT membership, and places Guilliatt tivities Director of the Year. Tobey is the the students. among the top professionals in the global 7-12 Principal/Activities Director at South• The award is funded through Barbara life insurance and financial services indus- ern Valley High School, and a 2005 graduate of Peru State College.

Gerhold and her late husband, Bill, and is try. Guilliatt was recognized for demongiven out each year to an outstanding Cathstrating exceptional professional knowl• Ruth Thies (Sterling, Neb.) was select- olic teacher. Mielak has been an educator edge, client service and ethical conduct. ed as the 2013 Sterling’s Honored Citizen.

Guilliatt is a 1967 Peru State College Thies is a lifelong citizen of Sterling and for 20 years, with 17 of those years being (PSC) graduate, and he currently serves as was chosen as the honored citizen because with St. Bonaventure Elementary School.

Vice Chair of the PSC Foundation Board. of her dedication to the people of the com• PSC graduate and Nebraska State pamunity through her career s as a cook and trolman, Mark Williams (Aurora, Neb.) has • Lonnie Bane ‘80 (New Braunfels, Texteacher.

Thies earned her teaching degree been promoted to Director of the Nebraska as) has been named as Chairman of The from Peru State College in 1960.

State Patrol training.

Captain Williams will Sierra Institute (TSI) in Houston, Texas. be in charge of the 22-week training proBane will replace Ed Dunn and Tom Hel• Lynn Mielak, (Columbus, Neb.) gradu- gram that includes basic recruit training for ton who have operated as Co-Chairmen ated from Peru State College in 2007, with newly appointed applicants and in-service since they started the institute in 2003. a master’s degree in curriculum and in- training for veteran officers.

TSI Senior Fellows represent corpora-

The Stater 17

taught at Butler Community College for 25 years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed spending time with his little dogs and working in the yard.

1930s Marjorie Riensche (’38) of Wahoo passed away January 15, 2014. She served as Johnson County Assessor for thirteen years. She enjoyed traveling with her husband in their pickup/ camper to visit family on both coasts. She enjoyed quilting, embroidering, and fishing trips.

1940s Karen M. Levasseur (’40) of Council Bluffs, Iowa passed away March 19, 2014. Karen lived her life to the fullest, her busy hands and pleasant disposition led to many friends, loving and well-cared for family. She had a full and productive life.

Marjorie (Nispel, ’41) Pohlmann passed away at Good Samaritan Society of Beatrice on March 3, 2014. She served on the Board of Directors of Martin Luther Home/Mosaic, and was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary of Plymouth for 67 years. One of her greatest joys was her grandchildren.

Theodore W. Graves (’42) of Bedford, Virginia passed away March 28, 2014. He grew up in Peru and then went to Washington, D.C. for a Civil Service career. He was a veteran of WWII, serving as a platoon commander with the Army Engineers in Africa and Italy. He retired in 1973 and was head of the Dept. of Defense Item Entry Control Office.

Bette Jenkins (’43) of Kansas City, Mo. passed away January 13, 2014. She loved people and entertaining them. She enjoyed traveling and was an eternal optimist and faced challenges throughout her life head on.

Gilbert Schreiner (’43) of Unadilla passed away March 28, 2013. He was one of the first 3 pediatric residents at the Omaha Children’s Memorial Hospital. He served his country as a Captain in the United States Air Force, was a member of the American Medical Association and was named professor of the year on numerous occasions. He enjoyed golfing with his wife and was a farmer at heart.

Donna (Hathaway, ’46) Stutheit of Beatrice passed away May 10, 2013. Donna devoted her life to her family and life on the farm where she and Norman lived for 65 years. She loved gardening, sewing and baking. She was a volunteer at Colonial Acres Home in Humboldt for many years.

Halden Brown (’49) of Beatrice passed away February 22, 2014. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was a psychologist for 21 years and had been named psychologist of the year for the state of Nebraska. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and enjoyed fishing, hunting, sports, and traveling.

1950s Virginia Jensen (’51) of Lenoir, N.C., died December 24, 2013. She was a Baton Ruritanette member and an active member of Colliers United Methodist Church. She loved flowers, gardening, animals, cooking, writing, and receiving letters from family and friends.

William E. Thurman (’51) of Nebraska City passed away April 14, 2014. He enjoyed sporting goods business most of all, so he opened Thurman’s Bike and Sport, which he owned and operated until selling it to his son in 1994. He loved sports and lettered in basketball and track at Peru State College.

Donaven Bornschlegl (’53) of Lincoln passed away April 15, 2013. He was a standout athlete in basketball and baseball at Peru and is still on the scoring record. His idea of relaxing was to remodel old homes which is what he loved to do.

Paul Carothers (’55) of Beatrice passed away January 17, 2014. He was an avid hunter and angler, high school teacher and coach. He taught history and physical education and coached football. He also farmed in Broken Bow, where he grew up.

Ruby Anna Emma (Mueller, ’56) Heinke, of Bennet, passed away April 13, 2013. She taught at a country school south of Syracuse and worked for Nebraska Vital Statistics. She also served as Executive Vice President of Heinke Technology until retirement in 1995.

Jim Jarvis (’56) of Auburn passed away January 16, 2014. He was a member of the Auburn Christian Church and served on the Advisory Board of the Good Samaritan Society. He enjoyed working on home improvement projects, golfing, and Husker and Green Bay football.

Marvin Johnson (’57) of Pawnee City passed away May 19, 2013. Marvin retired from teaching at Omaha Public Schools after 35 years. He coached baseball and wrestling at Bryan High School while teaching. He ran for a 4 year term as mayor in Pawnee City and was an avid gardener and loved jarring tomatoes and pickles. He enjoyed golfing, horse races, watching Nebraska football and girls volleyball.

David Kent Longfellow (’58) of Wichita, Kansas, passed away December 6, 2013. David

18 The Stater

June Peck (’58) of Spokane, Washington passed away November 26, 2013. June was a gifted seamstress and loved children, with these she was asked to co-coordinate the Spokane Chapter of ConKerr Cancer organization. She volunteered her time helping children with reading skills at Ridgeview Elementary.

Scott A. Schwarting (’58) of Shiprock, New Mexico passed away December 10, 2013.

He lettered in baseball four years at Peru state College and coached Elks Midgets and Legion Juniors baseball in Falls City. He taught and coached at Venango High School from 1985 to 1992.

1960s Clarice Christensen (’60) of Solvang, California passed away September 13, 2013. She was known throughout the teaching community for her inventive ideas and developing learning systems that allowed her students to have fun while studying and learning new things. She loved to travel and enjoyed participating in quilting groups.

William Tulk (’60) of Horton, Kansas passed away January 24, 2014. He was the 1st program at Death Valley High School in California. Kids were his life and he never met a kid he didn’t like or believe in. He enjoyed hanging out at the Moose Lodge and playing in a band with family and friends.

Gail Beckstead (’61) of Friend, passed away December 29, 2012. He was a member of the Pleasant View Christian Church south of Wilcox, an active member of the Volunteer fire Departments in Friend and Holdrege and spent many years as an EMS instructor.

Raymond Plankinton (’61) of Columbus passed away May 3, 2013. Ray was well known for his carpentry skills and has helped many family and friends with remodeling and refinishing of beautiful old furniture. He enjoyed playing bridge with his friends every Monday evening.

Oliver Bierman (’66) of Hastings died February 17, 2014. He was in the U.S. Army and was awarded the Bronze Star along with three battle stars. His most unforgettable journey was an eight-week Fullbright Study Tour in Pakistan with his wife Janet.

Opal (Rogge, ’66) Bohl of Hanover, Iowa passed away September 22, 2013. She taught thirteen years in rural schools in Nemaha County following another thirteen years at Southeast Consolidated Schools. She helped organize and served 12 years as Secretary-Treasurer of the Nemaha County Handi-Bus Committee.

Edythe (Brooks, ’66) McLeod of Bellevue passed away October 19, 2013. She taught bead craft and knitting after retiring. She was an avid birder and gardener and published two children’s Christmas books.

Ronald L. McCoy (’67) of Omaha, passed away March 30, 2014. He was in management for Missouri Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads until retirement in 2001.

Bill Rinne (’67) of Norwell, Mass. passed away August 31, 2013. He played basketball at Peru State under legendary coach Jack McIntire. He was a gardener and avid outdoorsman.

1970s Dorothy (Schanot, ’71) Wander of Nebraska City passed away January 9, 2013. She enjoyed traveling to 47 of the 50 states, learning to play acoustic guitar and was a member of the United Methodist Church for more than 50 years.

Merlin “Lynn” Harry (’71) of Norton, Kansas passed away June 17, 2013. Lynn loved and admired his sons and their families. He had a jovial laugh that he loved to share with family and friends while reminiscing and telling stories. He enjoyed fishing and bird watching.

Mildred Marguerite (Mackoy, ‘71) Teachout of Shenandoah, Iowa passed away May 9, 2013. She enjoyed traveling, playing bridge, and attending her grandchildren’s activities. The role she enjoyed the most was that of mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She enjoyed planning vacations with her family and her collection of cookbooks and endless search for recipes delighted family and friends.

Teresa Fink (’72) of Tecumseh passed away October 2, 2013. She worked for the Department of Health and Human Services in Lincoln for 27 years.

Tommy LeRoy Sawyer (’72) of Nebraska City passed away October 21, 2013. He served in U.S. Marine Corps, Vietnam War. He was a devoted Husker fan, and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He owned and operated Tom Sawyer Painting.

Esther Ione White (’72) of Sabetha, Kansas died February 19, 2014. She taught 3rd, 4th, and 6th grade at Dawson-Verdon School until retirement in 1998. After retirement she served as a Sunday School teacher and as a secretary for the Albany Historical Society for many years.

James S. Robinson (’73) of Lincoln, passed away May 14, 2013. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran and a former BSA leader. James enjoyed Husker games and listening to jazz music.

Ruth L. Ross (’75) of Nebraska City died February 20, 2014. She taught at Murray (Conestoga) for 32 years and then substituted for 16. She received the Ruth Stroble Award as Outstanding Teacher. Ruth was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, and was a faithful member for over 50 years to the Nehawka Methodist Church.

Anthony Lutz (’78) of Nebraska City passed away January 30, 2013. He severed in the Navy from March 13, 1969 until his honorable discharge on February 1, 1973.

Betty Kathleen White (’78) of Plattsmouth passed away April 23, 2013. She was a loving and devoted Special Education teacher teaching both junior high and high school. She was a member of the Watson Baptist Church, the National Education Association and the Red Hat Society.

1980s Jacqueline “Evie” Crawford (’82) of Plymouth passed away June 19, 2013. She was a 4-H leader and Sunday School teacher for several years. She loved going to her daughter Kelsey’s sporting events, spending time with her grandchildren, providing shelter for stray animals, gardening, cooking and traveling.

Bradley J. Sefried (’84) of Sanford, Florida passed away March 28, 2014. He was a member of the National Honor Society and the U.S. Army National Guard. He formulated various equations that were adopted by the State of Florida relating to just and impartial means of property appraisals, winning numerous awards and recognition. He loved music, art and sports.

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

1990s Don Hogue (’97) has been the Falls City High School Head Boys’ Basketball Coach since 1999 and will continue, this last winter he surpassed the legendary Jug Brown to become the winningest Tiger coach of all-time.

2000s Heath Baumann (’04) was hired as an Associate with Virginia Tech’s Center for Leadership in Global Sustainability.

Peyton Lewis (’04) was hired as the K-12 principal for Johnson-Brock Schools for the 2013-2014 school year.

Lynn Mielak (’07) of Columbus wins Catholic teacher award. Lynn teaches kindergarten and is named the recipient of the 16th annual William and Barbara Gerhold Family Teacher of the Year award.

Antonio Edwards (‘12) is a current Graduate Student at Florida Atlantic University in the School of Public Administration and is scheduled to graduate with a Master’s of Public Administration in May of 2014.

Megan Boyle (’13) is the K-12 Art instructor for West Holt Public Schools in Saint Joseph, Missouri. She is excited for this position and can’t wait for what the years have to come.

Friends Joel Lundak of Nebraska City was recently recognized as the Volunteer of the Year from the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum. Lundak has planted thousands of plants throughout the Arbor Lodge using his own time and money since 2010. He taught Psychology at Peru State College for 23 years.

Friends Warren Etter passed away March 7, 2013. He taught at Peru State College for four years. He served one year in the National Guard and four years in the Navy. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and fishing after retirement.

Tyler DeBuhr (’08) and Mindy Beedwere united in marriage on July 20, 2013. Mindy is currently a registered cardiovascular invasive specialist at the Nebraska Heart Hospital in Lincoln. Tyler teaches at Norwood Park Elementary in Lincoln.

1940s Max Jackson (’42) and Wilma (Miller, ’42) Jackson, celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary on November 27, 2013.

Tom and Dorothy Hallstrom (’49) celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on June 12, 2013. They celebrate every year by going to the Okoboji Summer Theatre.

1950s Ron Kelley (’59) was officially introduced on Sunday February 9th at the Nebraska Baseball Hall of Fame annual banquet. He led the Bobcats to the Nebraska College Conference championship in 1962 and was nominated for the World-Herald State Collegiate Athlete of the Year award.

1960s Fred Regnier (’60) retired from Purdue University after 45 years in the Chemistry Department. He is still active in two start-up companies, Perfinity and Novalytics.

Ray Meister (’62), is part of the quartet F.R.O.G. (Four Really Old Guys), they won the Central States District Seniors Barbershop Quartet Contest in 2002. Ray recently received the “Barbershopper of the year” award at the Central States District competition.

Linda Weichel (’69) retired from Kickapoo Nation School last June after 24 years teaching grades 5-12 at the tribal school in Powhattan, KS. 1970s John Winkel (’73) was one of 11 men who were ordained as permanent diaconate on July 20, 2013. He has done numerous works including serving homeless shelters and food pantries. The 11 men have been preparing for this since January 2009.

Cory Helms and Katrina VanWesten (’08) were married June 29, 2013. Katrina is teaching and coaching in Cambridge. Cory works as the assistant cattle manager for Warner Beef in Arapahoe.

Daniel Ross and Jacklyn Martinez (’10) were married September 28, 2013. Jacklyn is working at Lortsher Animal Nutrition in Bern, Kansas and Daniel is working at MAC Process in Sabetha, Kansas.

Andrew James Robert and Karli Marie Morse (’11) were married November 16, 2013.

She is currently employed with the Educational Service Unit in Wayne. He is engaged in farming near Carroll.

Brian Zech and Emily Collins (’12) had a July wedding at the Lewis and Clark Center in Nebraska City. Brian is owner/operator of Zech Tiling and Trenching.

Lee Rasmussen (’13) and Michelle Krings were married on June 29, 2013. Lee is a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honors Society of Education. Michelle is employed in the Radiology Department at Brown County Hospital in Ainsworth.

Nicole Tuma and Rex Osborne were married June 15, 2013. Nicole is working in Saint Joseph, Missouri on the National Healthy Worksite Project as a health coach and program manager. Rex is a teacher for the Helen Davis School for the disabled in Saint Joseph.

Brian Lee Shaw and Cassie Denae Gottula were married on April 26, 2014. Brian is employed as an estimator/installer for Robert Kremers Construction. Cassie works as Coordinator of Admission Services for Peru State College.

Brice Volker and Emily Jantzen (’05) were married December 14, 2013. Emily is a Project Coordinator in the Graduate Studies office. Brice is a Pioneer Seed Sales Representative.

James Wolken (’74) retired from Crew Management Services of the Union Pacific Railroad in June of 2012 and moved to New Mexico to do volunteer work for the AMP Concerts in Albuquerque.

Bill Fitzgerald (’78) was recognized by Nebraska State Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NSIAAA) with the National State Award of Merit. He is in his 37th year in education, having served the past nine years as Activities Director/Assistant Principal at Fremont High School, Fremont, Ne.

2000s Ty Becker and Rita (Martin, ’02) Becker celebrate the birth of Brett Charles Becker, born November 25, 2013 at 3:45 p.m. Weighing 8 pounds, 13 oz. and 20 1 ⁄2 inches long.

The Stater 19

The Peru Stater

Join us October 4, 2014

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

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA, NE PERMIT #36

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

• Annual Parade downtown mainstreet Peru • Tailgate festival on campus quad including food, games, inflatables, live entertainment • 50 Year Reunion Celebration • Football game against Baker University- kick off at 2pm • 1867 Society Donor Recognition Unveiling

Inside this Peru Stater you’ll find …

Page 4 Page 6 Page 6 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13

Lee Sapp Awarded Honarary Doctorate PSC Students Venture on First International Trip Dorothy Rieke Visits the Campus of a Thousand Oaks 2014 Commencement Eric Behrens to Lead PSC Men’s Basketball Student Spotlight: Tyler Ford

20 The Stater

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.