S2018 Peru Stater

Summer 2018 Vol. 63, No. 1

Commencement 2018 See story on page 14

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Engaging the Future Dan Hanson, Ph.D. Peru State College President

Peru State College – Engaging the Future

Almost nine years ago, I joined the Peru State College community as president and one of the first large projects the College undertook was to write a strategic plan titled “Essential Engagement.” After a year of planning, the vision this plan shared focused College energy on creating engaged learning opportunities for students, outreach in southeast Nebraska, increasing the prominence of the institution, and enhancing facilities.

The most noticeable outcomes for people outside the institution are the many impressive facility enhancements. These include the renovations of Morgan Hall, Delzell Hall, the Oak Bowl, TJ Majors, the

Park Avenue campus entrance project and the current Theatre/Event Center renovation and addition.

However, the focused attention on engaged learning created a student-centered educational approach that immerses students in active learning environments on campus and throughout the region. This has become a part of the Peru State culture and a key to our distinctiveness as an institution.

Thousands of students have benefitted from this approach, with many students earning national awards demonstrating its effectiveness.

This focus on engaged learning is rooted in sound educational research. That research has found that institutions can arrange their curriculum and other student experiences to engage students, resulting in greater motivation and effort by students (Kuh et. al, 2005).

The focus on engaged learning also fits the College’s 150-year tradition of transforming student lives through personal educational experiences possible only in a small-college environment. Finally, focusing on engagement in the region highlights the important role the College plays in

the area, giving students relevant learning opportunities and increasing prominence.

Beginning the fall semester of 2016, Peru State College embarked on another comprehensive strategic planning process.

The new plan, “Engaging the Future,” extends the College’s vision for six more years. It builds on the culture emerging from the last plan and continues to emphasize engagement in the classroom, engagement across campus and engagement in the region and beyond.

The College community participated in an extensive conversation about this new vision, and, while it is an aggressive plan, the College community is committed to its priorities.

The creation of this new six-year plan was led by a strategic planning committee composed of faculty, staff, students, alumni and area community members and a member of the Peru State College Foundation Board.

The new strategic plan is both a recommitment to the themes of the previous strategic plan and a new formulation of what it means to learn, work and engage at Peru State College. The themes of creating engaged learning opportunities for students, outreach in southeast Nebraska, increasing

the prominence of the institution, and enhancing facilities are clearly continuing to shape the future of the College. Moreover, new perspectives and new solutions were found in the planning process, culminating in a continued promise to serve and educate southeast Nebraska and the region.

The strategic plan builds on the recent and historic success to create a narrative about the institution’s direction and the priorities to achieve this vision. Extensive conversations with campus and community constituents brought the campus together in a common vision and drove the formulation of a new vision, new values and new strategic plan. There is some work yet to do in this process, but I am pleased to share the results of the planning process here.

Learn more on page 19.

All the Best,

Dan Hanson, Ph.D. President

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July Bob PSC Foundation Board of Directors Larry Green (’71) Chairman – Miramar Beach, FL Jim Desbien (’73) – Plainville, KS SaraBeth Donovan (‘85) Vice-Chair - Pierre, SD Joyce Douglas, Secretary – Lincoln, NE Elton (‘88) and Connie (Sims, ‘87) Edmond - Lincoln, NE Mike Guilliatt (’67) – Fremont, NE Cindy (Plantenga, ’82) & Tim (’84) Hoffman, Treasurers – Lincoln, NE Pat Mertens (’86) – Hastings, NE Dr. Bill Snyder – Auburn, NE Al Urwin (’82) – La Vista, NE PSC National Alumni Association Board of Directors Paul (’67) & Arlene (Borcher, ’67) Fell, Co-Chairs – Lincoln, NE Ed Ankrom (’91) – Beatrice, NE Dan (’76) & Cheryl Cotton – Peru, NE Rich Daly (’68) – Lincoln, NE

Adam (’11, ’17) & Promise (Nelson, ‘11) DeBilzan Nebraska City, NE Elton (’88) & Connie (Sims, ’87) Edmond – Lincoln, NE Carlos Harrison (’51) – Shenandoah, IA Mary Lu (Hicks) McCoy (’68) – Omaha, NE Chuck (’69) & Alice (Massoth, ’69) Mizerski – Lincoln, NE Mark Shively (‘70, ‘93) – Omaha, NE Fritz (’74) & Char (Lutz, ’74) Stehlik – Omaha, NE Kim (’90) & Kris (Kubert, ’94) Vrtiska – Falls City, NE College President: Dr. Dan Hanson Editor: R. Todd Simpson (‘15), Chief Executive Officer, PSC Foundation Managing Editor/Writer: Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, PSC Foundation

Graphic Design: Rebecca Johnson (‘04, ‘17) Contributing Writers: Kelly Cole, Business Manager, PSC Foundation Jason Hogue, Director of Marketing Ted Harshbarger (’77), Associate Athletic Director/ Sports Information Director Rebecca Jewell, Advancement Officer, PSC Foundation Annie Neveau, Program Specialist, PSC Foundation Photography: Dr. Bill Clemente, Professor Emeritus Ted Harshbarger (’77), Associate Athletic Director/ Sports Information Director Brandi Hull (’14), Graphic Designer Tereza Kamenar, Campus Services Neiman Sneed, Marketing Intern

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Taking the Long View

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Todd Simpson CFRE Chief Executive Officer, Peru State College Foundation

Taking the Long View

For several reasons, I keep being reminded of the phrase, “taking the long view.”

No, I’m not making trips up to Mount Vernon Cemetery, although the view from that hilltop certainly offers the best – and longest – view around.

It is because I have had the opportunity recently to work with many people who have a confidence in and enthusiasm for the future. They keep reminding me to look beyond my weekly and monthly calendar to a more distant future.

Reason number one: By the time you read this, Peru State’s sesquicentennial

commemorations will have officially concluded with the celebration of Commencement on May 5. I can’t help but ask myself this question: where will the College and the Foundation be when it is time to celebrate the next big anniversary, the bicentennial or tri-centennial? What is happening today to position the College for that next major milestone?

President Dan Hanson is truly forwardlooking. His leadership throughout the College’s recent strategic planning initiative have pressed all of us on the planning committee to imagine the future we want to see, and then put pen to paper and plan the steps that will take us there.

Reason number two: Recently I have had an opportunity to talk with an alumna who is including the Peru State College Foundation in her estate plan. I know that I am really asking her to take the long view. Her eventual gift to the College will arrive at some uncertain point in the future.

Because it is designated as a portion of her estate, the eventual amount of this gift is even uncertain. However, that uncertainty

is perfectly acceptable. Whenever this gift other people with lengthy relationships to arrives, and whatever its final amount will be, Peru State: Ted Harshbarger (’77), devoted it will support students, faculty and staff who staff member and our campus expert in dining will be a part of this College in 10, 20 or even etiquette; and Mary (Wilson) Oestmann 30 years in the future. She is excited by that (’67), daughter of faculty members Gil and idea, and feels good knowing that she has Mary Ruth Wilson, and a licensed financial made plans to give back in a way that reflects planner. her gratitude for what she feels she has been Ted, Mary, Daryl and Peggy all have deep given by her education at Peru State. roots in Peru and nearly life-long connections Reason number three: I have had the to the College. They came together to share honor and great pleasure of working with information with students that would Dr. Daryl and Mrs. Peggy Long for several prepare them to do well in a job interview, months to develop a program to prepare to make good financial decisions with those students for professional and financial first “real” paychecks, and to set themselves success. Daryl Long, a professor and a farmer, up for a lifetime of future success. Hopefully, is a master of long-term thinking. Perhaps some of these students, well-prepared for his two occupations have taught him this their futures, will give back to their alma skill, semester after semester, from planting mater. In their turn, they will help the next to harvest. generation of students gain education, skills, Last semester, with Daryl and Peggy’s friendships, and fun at Peru State College. encouragement and financial support, Investing in education is all about taking the College and Foundation hosted an the long view. So many of our Peru State informational luncheon for students that College alumni and friends have made the shared the rules of professional dining decision to give back to Peru State, investing etiquette and provided advice on financial in students today and positioning Peru State planning. The program was given by two College for a bright future. Thank you.

Upcoming Alumni and Friends Events

Plan the rest of your year with PSC events! Mark your calendars today.

From regional activities to Homecoming and the Performing Arts Center Grand Opening – the summer and fall will be packed with fun events for the whole family. Learn more at foundation.peru.edu and click on EVENTS. July 20: Kansas City Royals Tailgate and Game Bobcat alumni and friends are invited for food, fun and baseball under the lights with a tailgate and game (Royals vs Twins).

August 25: Bobcat Football Tailgate and Game Bobcat alumni and friends are invited for food, fun and football with a tailgate before the Hastings College vs Peru State College football game in Hastings, NE. September 21 and 22: Athletic Hall of Fame Four individuals and one team will be inducted into the PSC Athletic Hall of Fame with a Friday banquet and Saturday induction.

October 5 and 6: Homecoming and Reunions 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50-year milestone reunions will be celebrated during Homecoming. All alumni and friends are invited to participate in the family-friendly events throughout Friday and Saturday.

October 25, 26 and 27: Performing Arts Center Grand Opening The newly renovated, and renamed, Performing Arts Center will be officially re-opened with a variety of music and entertainment for the whole family.

November 13: Lincoln Alumni and Friends Gathering Alumni and friends in the Lincoln area are invited for food, fun and an update from PSC President, Dan Hanson.

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Peru State Today... Year in review

A true blue Bobcat family enjoyed the PSC Chili Feed! Will Jackson (’13) and Madilyn Jackson (’14), with their two children Samuel (2 years) and Annie (5 months old).

Food, fun and hoops highlighted the chili feed.

Pictured from L to R: Ilma (Gobber) Gottula (’65) and Arlene (Borcher) Fell (’67).

Alumni and friends gather throughout the year!

A mini 70s reunion was held in Lincoln. Pictured with their Bobcat bags from L to R: Evey (Heebner) Lesoing (‘74), PJ (Schultz) Criger (‘74), Kay (Nutzman) Gerdes (‘73), Peggy (Kreifels) Groff (‘76), Bobbi Thiesfeld (‘75), Denise (Beaumont) Mabie (‘74).

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eview

More than 100 alumni and friends gathered prior to the men’s basketball game during the DI NAIA men’s basketball tournament. Pictured from L to R: Kevin Mowery (’89), Cindy (Walla) Mowery (’92), Bonnie (Mick) Henzel (‘86), Vince Henzel (’86).

Peru State fans of all ages gathered during the Chili Feed including Jacquelyn Douglas (granddaughter of Joyce Douglas, PSC Foundation Board of Director treasurer) and her friend.

Retirees from Peru State College were honored this spring at an employee appreciation luncheon. Pictured from L to R: Bill Clemente (Professor of English, School of Arts and Sciences), Pat Rippe (Director of Field Experiences, School of Education), Liz Kearney (Assistant Professor, School of Education) and Hal Eltiste (Maintenance Repair Worker III, Campus Services).

Following spring commencement, Peru State alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends gathered to place items of significance in a time capsule to be opened in 2067. The time capsule will be buried under the new Sesquicentennial Plaza outside the remodeled theatre and event center. Ron Nolte (’70) places a print of the sesquicentennial painting featuring the PSC campus.

More than 400 alumni and friends gathered to celebrate Peru State College basketball. Pictured L to R: Mary Lu (Hicks) McCoy (’68), Chuck Mizerski (’69).

Chili, toppings and cinnamon rolls were the food of choice during the Chili Feed on February 3. Pictured L to R: Barb (Fritz) Jones (’73) and Dallas “Larry” Jones (’72).

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Alumni and friends gathered in Tampa, Florida to hear an update on the College from President Dan Hanson and reminisce about their time at PSC. Pictured L to R: Dan Hanson, Marvin Campbell (‘81), Alvin Holder (‘82), Johnie Stewart (‘81), Jerry Joy (‘64), Terrell Williams (‘83), Bob Bowman (‘85) - all members of the 1980 Hall of Fame football team.

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Peru State Performing Arts Center Save-the-Date: Newly Renovated Theatre and Plaza Opens October 2018 Voices raised in harmony, stages set for theatre productions and the Hoyt Street Jazz Band poised to entertain a crowd. Thanks to the generosity of alumni, family and friends these activities and many more will be heard in the newly renovated College Theatre this fall. A renovation and expansion of the theatre is underway and the building will reopen in October as the Peru State College Performing Arts Center.

“Quality facilities reflect a quality education. A renovated theatre will be a more accurate reflection of the quality education students receive at Peru State,” said Dan Hanson, PSC President. “This fall we invite all alumni, friends and community members to commemorate the renovation with Grand Opening events scheduled for October 25, 26 and 27.”

With more than $800,000 raised, the

renovation includes a grand piano, stage lighting, flooring, rigging and curtain, an audio/video projection system, new green room, expanded dressing rooms and more.

“Peru State donors are incredibly generous and with their help we were able to fully fund the renovation project and provide better, safer accommodations for audiences and performers, a new event space on campus and support continued growth of music and theatre programs,” said Todd Simpson, CEO, PSC Foundation. “This space will be used by the local community and become a regional event center.”

The renovation budget also included funding for a plaza adjacent to and south of the theatre. The plaza will commemorate Peru State’s sesquicentennial and feature an opportunity for alumni and friends to leave their mark on campus

Sesquicentennial Plaza Program Leave your mark on Peru State College’s campus.

Peru State College is celebrating a 150-year tradition built on a passion for student-centered education with strong relationships between students and dedicated faculty and staff.

through an engraved paving stone initiative. Additional information on the paving stone program may be found at www.peru.edu/foundation/pavingstone.

With the scheduled grand opening of the Performing Arts Center, the community, donors to the project, alumni and friends are

invited to celebrate this historic renovation.

Below is a tentative schedule of events.

For additional information and up-to-date details, visit www.peru.edu/pac.

Performing Arts Center Grand Opening Thursday, October 25, 2018 TBD Master Class Artist taught class with current PSC students 7 p.m. Sneak Peek Concert: PSC and High School Performances Showcase PSC student talent and engage area high school students - Performing Arts Center Friday, October 26, 2018 TBD Master Class Artist taught class with current PSC students 6 p.m. Performing Arts Center Ribbon Cutting and Gala Reception Sesquicentennial Plaza, Performing Arts Center Lobby 6:15- 7 p.m.Performing Arts Center Tours. Depart from Performing Arts Center Lobby 7:30 p.m. Gala Performance Featuring Nebraska Brass and PSC Students - Performing Arts Center 10:30 p.m. Performing Arts Center After Hours Featuring CAB speaker/act for current students - Performing Arts Center Saturday, October 27, 2018 8 a.m. Toughest Mile Run ending at the Performing Arts Center 10-11 a.m. Live Music Yoga - Sesquicentennial Plaza 11 a.m. Theatre Improv/Workshop - Performing Arts Center 12 p.m.-2 p.m. Performing Arts Center Tours - Depart from PAC Lobby 2 p.m. Phi Alpha Theta Oral History Documentary Premier and Panel - Performing Arts Center

Alumni and friends have a unique opportunity to celebrate the College’s sesquicentennial and recognize their experiences on campus, as well as support future generations of students.

The paving stones will be placed in the plaza, south of the newly renovated Performing Arts Center east of the Administration Building, where they may be enjoyed by all who walk through campus for generations to come.

When you make a donation through the Sesquicentennial Plaza Program, you will leave a permanent mark on the Peru State College campus and support the College’s areas of greatest need.

Two sizes of paving stones are available to recognize donations at these levels: 6”x12” – $500 12”x12” – $1,000

Donations to the Sesquicentennial Plaza Program may be made using three different options: 1. Pay the full amount outright by check or debit/credit card.

b. $250 in year 1 and $250 in year 2 for 6”x12” paving stones

2. Two-year pledge (pay 50% of donation each year). a. $500 in year 1 and $500 in year 2 for 12”x12” paving stones

3. Monthly giving over 24 months (amount determined based on donation).

Paving stones will be engraved once full payment has been received by the PSC Foundation.

Peru State College Foundation P.O. Box 10, Peru, NE 68421 402-872-2304 foundation.peru.edu/plaza pscfoundation@peru.edu

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A rendering of Sesquicentennial Plaza.

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Two murals are part of the renovation Peru State College Theatre (to be renamed the Peru State Performing Arts Center) depicting Old Main and Professor Hoyt at his telescope. Pictured are the murals as they were installed by sculptor Jay Tschetter and Images in Brick. To learn more about the murals and the renovations, visit peru.edu/services/projects.

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Criminal Justice at Peru State Inside-Out Program – A transformative educational experience

Daniel Hayes, Instructor of Criminal Justice

Grateful. Bittersweet. Excited. Thankful.

Honored. Humbled.

These are only a few of the words shared during the final class of the Inside Out program, a partnership between Peru State College and the Nebraska Department of Corrections, as students reflected on their experience over the past 15 weeks.

These expressions of gratitude may be surprising to some when they learn the source. The Inside Out program is an international program started in 1997 that brings together campus-based college students with incarcerated students for a semester-long course held in a prison.

“Peru State College is the only higher education institution in the state of Nebraska to collaborate with the Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program and hold a course like this,” said Daniel Hayes (’02), Instructor

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of Criminal Justice and Inside Out teacher.

“Over the last semester we brought together students from Peru State and students from within the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution to discuss the criminal justice system and how race, class and gender affect an individual’s experience with that system.”

The theme for the spring 2018 Inside Out course was developed throughout the semester culminating with a presentation to prison and Peru State College administrators with recommendations on how to transform the public perception of incarcerated persons and correctional institutions - Tecumseh State Correctional Institution specifically.

Peru State students and incarcerated students partnered to present recommendations to educate and inform the public about positive development made by incarcerated persons within the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services facilities.

A quote taken from the final paper developed by both inside and outside students, shares the thesis behind their recommendations. “The purpose of our final project is to give a voice to those of us, on both sides of these prison walls, who are doing all that we can to transform lives. We that are here, guilty of some crime, some harm, wish to be different. Strive for change and desire daily an opportunity to return to society and live a good life. Those of us that come in, seeking to help with this change, want a safer society, better returning citizens and a more welcoming community.”

Over the course of the semester, inside and outside students are asked to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zone and talk about difficult subjects.

“College is an important time for students

to stretch themselves beyond their comfort zone,” said Dan Hanson, president of PSC. “This class is an example of engaged learning that positions our students to be leaders in their fields.”

By the end of the last class, there was laughter and tears as the inside and outside students said goodbye – knowing they had learned from each other, gained experiences that would help them in the future and that they would not see each other again.

PSC Students and Incarcerated Students Recommendations

Developing a Tecumseh State Correctional Institution Facebook page monitored by the prison’s Public Information Officer for incarcerated persons to share their story with weekly updates about the activities and achievements happening within the prison Developing a Tecumseh State Correctional Institution podcast to share the stories of inmates – engaging incarcerated persons in a positive project, educating the public about positive strides made by incarcerated persons.

Updating the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services to reflect courses and seminars taken by incarcerated persons to better themselves.

These recommendations were presented to the Warden Brad Hansen of the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution during the final presentation.

What is the Inside-Out program?

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did the Inside-Out program get started at Peru State College?

A: The Inside-Out program was brought to Peru State’s campus by Kelly Asmussen, professor of criminal justice.

He attended training through the Inside-

Out Prison Exchange Program and made the necessary contacts with the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and Peru State College to implement the program. After his retirement in 2016, Danny Hayes, instructor of criminal justice at PSC, completed the Inside-Out program training and became the local program facilitator.

Q: Is it safe to teach a class in prison?

A: According to the Inside-Out program website, teaching in prison is actually quite safe. The administrators would never allow the class to happen at all if they thought there was a safety concern. For another, incarcerated participants tend to value highly the opportunity to participate in an InsideOut course, and would be unlikely to do anything to jeopardize it. Also, those who might have a higher potential to cause a safety problem are screened out of participating in the course by corrections staff.

Finally, even though bonds between and among students inevitably form throughout the semester, Inside-Out is not a vehicle for developing relationships that will exist outside the parameters of the program. Only first names are used and no other identifying information is shared. Parameters are critical to this program, as it exists within a very clear-cut, black and white environment.

Q: Who is an inside student and who is an outside student?

A: Inside students are students incarcerated in the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services. Outside students are college students participating in the program.

For additional information about the Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program, visit www.insideoutcenter.org.

Students and staff gather for a presentation at the graduation ceremony.

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Marty Allgood Scholarship Shares Law Enforcement Legacy

Marty Allgood was born in Peru to Clyde and Ellen (Applegate) Allgood, the fourth of nine children. His father was the town police officer, and Marty followed in his father’s footsteps and began his own career in law enforcement in 1967 when he joined the Nebraska City Police Department. He was the father of seven children and spent most of the next four decades working in law enforcement, retiring in 2008 from the NCPD. 0Marty died August 1, 2017, and his family has chosen to honor his memory and his commitment to law enforcement by establishing the Martin E. Allgood Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Scholarship.

This new scholarship will be awarded to a Peru State junior or senior Criminal Justice major who is planning a career in law enforcement.

When establishing the scholarship, Carey Allgood, one of Marty’s daughters, said, “My dad was committed to his community and to law enforcement. He would go out of his way to help people, and he devoted himself to making Nebraska City a safe and caring community.”

Criminal Justice is a popular area of study

for a variety of careers. The traditional path leads to careers in law enforcement, including pathways to federal careers with the Department of Justice. Criminal justice majors also find careers with the courts and corrections. Students with a Criminal Justice degree also have access to business and corporate jobs, such as loss prevention specialists, fraud examiners, and private security.

Dr. Greg Galardi, Dean of the School of Professional Studies and a former police officer himself said, “Students seeking a career in law enforcement are typically dedicated to public service first before all other benefits associated with this career field. This scholarship will be of substantial benefit to them and Peru State College.”

Establishing a scholarship with the Peru State College Foundation is a simple process, and a powerful way to celebrate a legacy in a career field, a commitment to education, a connection to Nebraska, or an interest in investing in the lives of young people.

To explore the many options for supporting scholarships at Peru State College, contact the Foundation at 402-872-2304.

Marty Allgood, Nebraska City Police Department

at Peru State. The major prepares students

The spring 2018 Inside-Out class.

at the mony.

A small group gathering during Inside-Out class time .

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Bobcat Athletics: Honoring Coach Mathews

On April 21, 2018, President Dan Hanson declared the day Coach Mathews Day with a special proclamation expressing appreciation to Mark Mathews and honoring him for his distinguished 25-year career with Peru State College. Renee Mathews (Coach Mathews’ widow) presented a holiday ornament to each player, which had been an annual tradition of the Mathews for many years. Pictured: Senior Rachel Carlos presented Renee Mathews with a lei after receiving her holiday ornament.

Mark Mathews: Coach. Mentor. Friend.

August 13, 1963 – December 24, 2017

The Peru State family lost a devoted Bobcat December 24, 2017 – Coach Mark Mathews. Few can boast the career Coach Mathews had, which impacted hundreds of students, his co-workers, his family and friends.

Close friend and colleague, Ted Harshbarger (’77), associate athletic director and sports information director for Peru State, gave a eulogy at Coach Mathews’ funeral and at the on-campus tribute.

Below is an excerpt:

In 1994, Mark took over the softball program at Peru State. He is the longest-serving coach in softball and is also one of the longest-serving coaches ever at the College. His 584 career wins – which he would deflect back to being team wins – put him as 15th in the NAIA in active coaches.

While he was proud of all of his teams’ efforts, obviously, the 1996 national tournament team and the 2006 regularseason and tournament champs were highlights.

There were numerous comments on social media from softball players and others, including umpires, about how Mark cared about his field.

As many of you know, Mark cared for his field like no other. If someone would come by his or my office and if he wasn’t there, I would just say, “I bet he is out at the field.”

Many players wondered why he spent so much time there,

but most finally realized he was doing it for them because he wanted the field to be in the best shape it could be whether for a game or for practice.

And don’t even get me started about trees – he learned a lot about trees from his family and was a true believer in preserving and planting more trees. For those who didn’t know, prior to each senior day he planted a tree for each senior player. That was something he was very proud to do.

Several former players commented about how he cared for them after they were injured – even when it was a season-ending one. I can tell you that if one of his players was injured, it injured him as well.

Everyone – that was the epitome of Coach Mathews – he really did want the best for everyone he came into contact with while here on earth. Whether you were a player of his or some other student-athlete or whether you were in the show choir or you were the leader of an organization on campus, Mark wanted everyone to do the best they could and he would be there to support them if he could.

And that can be said about how he cared for his colleagues as well. And the same could be said about his immediate and extended family.

Coach Mark Mathews’ PSC record:

Mark started working at Peru State in 1993 as an assistant football coach and maintenance worker. He was an assistant football coach for six years.

In 1994, he became the head softball coach and had just begun his 25th season at the helm of the Peru State softball program. Through his 24 seasons, his teams had won 584 games, which is over 70% of all of the wins in Bobcat softball history. Heading into the 2018 season, Mark was 15th in the NAIA as a winningest coach.

The 1996 season was a Peru State first as Mark led the Bobcats to a school-best 42-23 mark and took them to their only NAIA National Tournament. The 1996 team was inducted into the Peru State Hall of Fame in 2015.

In 2006, the Bobcats won the MCAC regular season and tournament titles. These were the first MCAC championships in softball for the College. That year, Mark was awarded the MCAC and Region IV “Coach of the Year” titles.

As many of his colleagues know, not only did his teams experience success on the field, but the women were successful in the classroom. Forty-eight of his players earned NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors, while many others were NFCA Scholar-Athletes, and CoSIDA All-District honorees. In addition, numerous Bobcat softball teams were named as NAIA Scholar Teams.

In September 2018, Coach Mark Mathews will be inducted into the 2018 PSC Athletic Hall of Fame for his service to Peru State College, athletics and softball.

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hews

The 2015 Hall of Fame Induction

The 2006 Softball Team

Quotes from some of the individuals Coach Mathews impacted during his time at Peru State (as shared on social media):

Coach, you were such an amazing man who impacted and inspired so many people in your life. You were more than a coach to us. You truly cared for each and every one of your players. I am so glad that I got to come to the alumni softball game a few months ago and spent some extra time with you.

-Michelle Wedge Eutsler (’04)

Coach truly was one of a kind and had such an impact on anyone and everyone he met. From the day he recruited us to our graduation, you guys were so welcoming and willing to help us whenever. Coach Mathews will be missed.

to your family for sharing you with us. You were an incredible man; you will always have a special place in my heart. Once a Bobcat, always a Bobcat.

-Amy Shotts (’08)

Won’t find a more true and dedicated Bobcat. -Randall “RJ” Wollenburg (’02) His passion for the game and the amount of blood, sweat, and tears he put into that field to bring it up to his high standards are nothing short of impressive.

-Jiree Wilson

He was always so upbeat, friendly, and positive. He never changed, he loved Peru and was a part of it. He touched so many people not just the girls he Thank you for the life lessons you taught me, thank you for allowing me to play coached. I will always remember him for what he did for everyone else. softball at the collegiate level, thank you for pushing me to become a better -Brent Strittmatter (’94) student, thank you for my sisters I have gained because of you and thank you -Chelsea Reznicek (’17) and Nicole Reznicek

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Bobcat Athletics Joan Albury returns to Peru State as Head Women's Basketball Coach

2018 Peru State Athletic Hall of Fame Announced The Peru State Athletic Hall of Fame committee has announced its 2018 Hall of Fame class which includes four individuals and one team. This will be the 27th group to be inducted into the College’s select group since its start in 1986.

On behalf of the committee, Peru State President Dr. Dan Hanson and Foundation Chief Executive Officer Todd Simpson have announced that Dr. Tom Hallstrom (Omaha), Mark Mathews (posthumously) (Peru/St. Paul), Kent Propst (Fayette, Mo.), Brett Richards (Papillion), and the 1988-89 Bobcat women’s basketball team are being inducted.

A reception, followed by a banquet, will begin at 5:30 p.m., on Friday, Sept 21, in the Student Center. Reservations for this event must be made in advance. For more information, contact the Foundation Office at 402-872-2304 or email Deborah Solie at dsolie@peru.edu.

The honorees will also be recognized at halftime of the football game versus Missouri Valley on Saturday, Sept. 22. The game begins at 1 p.m. and will be held in the Oak Bowl.

Hanson said, “We are thrilled to be able to honor Peru State College’s outstanding studentathletes and administrators in this way. Each of these individuals has made a significant and lasting impact on our athletic programs that will not be forgotten. Their talent and determination have greatly contributed to the College’s long and proud tradition of athletic

excellence. We look forward to honoring more Peru State athletic standouts in the future.”

The following honorees:

are

the

2018

Dr. Tom Hallstrom – 1949 – Meritorious Service Mark Mathews – 1993-2018 – Coach and Meritorious Service Kent Propst – 1981 – Meritorious Service Brett Richards – 1992 – Athlete 1988-89 Women’s Basketball Team

Athletic Hall of Fame – 27th Year When the Al Wheeler Activity Center was dedicated in 1986, the Peru State College Athletic Hall of Fame was established. The purpose of the Hall of Fame is to recognize, honor and preserve the memory of those individuals and teams whose contributions have greatly enhanced Nebraska’s first college.

The Hall of Fame gallery resides in the lobby of the Wheeler Center, named after the first inductee into the Hall of Fame, Alfred G. Wheeler. A candidate can be nominated in one of four categories: coach, player, team, or meritorious service.

A committee of alumni makes the selections annually each spring.

For additional information on this year’s planned activities and previous inductees go to alumni.edu/foundation/events.

Nominations are welcomed and can be submitted to PSC Athletic Hall of Fame, c/o Alumni Office, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, NE 68421.

For additional information, call (402) 872-2304.

In addition to previously serving as coach for two seasons, Albury has been interim head coach for the program since the beginning of the second semester. Steve Schneider, former athletic director at Peru State said, "Joan is a person of integrity, understands the game, is organized, is a team player and is certainly an individual who models the values of the champions of character. She will be an excellent role model for our student-athletes. We look forward to her leadership of the program."

Thomason Joins Bobcats

Peru State former athletic director Kirk Kelley announced the hiring of J.L. Thomason to serve as the Bobcats’ head softball coach. Thomason had been serving as the interim head coach after taking the place of long-time Peru State head coach Mark Mathews. In making his announcement, Kelley noted, “J.L. did an outstanding job in the interim role this past spring. He displayed a ton of ownership in the program and had lots of support from the players. J.L. has hit the ground running and we look forward to many good things to come from him.”

PSC athletes excel in the classroom and on the field – nearly 40% of the Bobcat studentathlete contingency were honored by making the Peru State’s spring 2018 dean’s list.

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A record Peru State crowd was on hand to cheer on the Bobcat men’s basketball team during the NAIA Division 1 Men’s Basketball Tournament opening round. Above, the men’s basketball team celebrates after defeating the top-seeded team, The Master’s, during the first round of the NAIA Division 1 Men’s Basketball Tournament. This was Peru State’s 15th time in the NAIA Division 1 championship, including the second time in three years. It was the first time since 1962 that the Bobcats advanced out of the first round in Division 1.

Peru State baseball team celebrates with head coach, Wayne Albury (in center front) after securing Albury’s 700th career win this past season. The team advanced to the Heart of America Baseball Conference Tournament this year and ended with a 30-20 overall record.

Recent graduate, Gunnar Orcutt (’18) was honored during halftime of the Sugar Bowl as part of the 2017 Allstate®/American Football Coaches Association Good Works Team® on national television.

Orcutt is the first football player ever from Peru State to be named to the prestigious honor which recognizes athletics, academics, and has an emphasis on community service.

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Commencement 2018

Graduates attending the May 2018 commencement ceremony decorated their hats to reflect their hopes and plans for the future.

Looking to the Future See the ability not the disability.

And so the adventure begins.

Off she went to change the world - Proverbs 22:6 Graduation caps said it all during the 2018 Peru State College Commencement ceremony.

These graduates are fired with a passion to change the world – whether it’s through their classroom, in a science lab or in the business world.

Chemistry professor, Dennis Welsh, was named Peru State College’s 2018 Teaching Excellence Award winner. He was honored at the graduation ceremony and gave a short address, ending with a chemistry experiment that created a small, contained explosion on stage reflecting that life, with the right ingredients, can be explosive.

In total, Peru State College granted 278 bachelor’s degrees and 124 graduate degrees for the 2017-2018 academic year. Keynote speaker, Mike Johanns a former senator and governor of Nebraska, encouraged this passion with a speech highlighting the importance of service.

With his encouragement, the guidance of their professors and mentors – these graduates will make a difference in future generations and represent their alma mater proudly – wherever they choose to go.

Bill Clemente, professor of English, was honored during commencement as a retiree from Peru State and given the status of emeritus faculty.

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Sen. Floyd Vrtiska Honored with Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award was established by the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees. It authorizes each college to nominate a graduate or someone who has made significant contribution to the College or to an alumnus who has achieved distinction and recognition in his or her field. Recipients are nominated by the college

president and approved by the NSCS Board of Trustees.

Peru State awarded its first Distinguished Service Award in 1960 to Dr. Alexander Stoddard, a 1910 graduate who went on to a career in education. Dr. Stoddard was an early proponent in the use of television as an educational tool, and his educational plans

Former Govenor and Sec. of Agriculture Mike Johanns, Sen. Dan Watermeier, President Hanson and Elaine Hanson gather with Sen. Vritska at the reception following Commencement.

contributed to the development of public educational television.

Since that first award, Peru State has recognized 52 people with the Distinguished Service Award, last awarded in 2002.

President Dan Hanson is resuming the Distinguished Service Award and is pleased to honor Senator Floyd Vrtiska as the 2018 recipient.

Floyd and his late wife Doris, a 1947 graduate of Peru State, have supported the College for decades by contributing to many campus priorities, including the CATS academic support center, the Oak Bowl renovation, scholarships, and more.

Many will recall Vrtiska’s influential support of Peru State College in the late 1990s and early 2000s as questions of moving or closing the campus surfaced in state government. Through his legislative leadership, Senator Vrtiska also wrote and sponsored a bill to secure state funding for the renovation and expansion of Hoyt Science Building. In 2005, the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees recognized this legislative support by naming the new addition in honor of Floyd and Doris.

Vrtiska has a long record of public service. He served three terms as the District

1 representative in the Nebraska Legislature, 24 years as a commissioner for Pawnee County, and on many other local, regional and statewide boards. He also served on the Nebraska State College Board of Trustees and on the Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors.

“Floyd has devoted himself to his family and to the wider community. His life of diligent work and devoted public service has benefited many people in the region and the state of Nebraska. His service provides a positive example for the lives we hope our students lead at Peru State College and beyond,” said Hanson.

Recently, Vrtiska created the first endowed internship at Peru State College Foundation, providing permanent support for a paid internship for one student per session at the Nebraska Legislature. The Senator Floyd and Doris Wagner Vrtiska Unicameral Internship will give students paid work experience and direct knowledge of state government through this internship.

Vrtiska was recognized with the Distinguished Service Award during the College’s Commencement ceremony on May 5.

Sen. Vrtiska and his family were all on hand for the May 5th event.

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Once A Bobcat, Always A Bobcat

Locker Room Initiative Reaches Goal Last April, 2017, family and friends of former coach and administrator Jerry Joy surprised him with an announcement of a special fundraising initiative to raise $100,000 in gifts honoring Joy to

name the football home locker room the Jerry Joy Home Locker Room. This initiative would also complete Phase I of the renovation of the Bobcat football field house.

This April, one year later, the initiative has exceeded its fundraising goal, raising more than $130,000. In conjunction with the Bobcat Football Spring Scrimmage held on April 20, new signage was unveiled and the facility officially adopted its new name.

More than 100 contributions were received to support the naming initiative, and enough money was raised to provide seed money for Phase II of the facility renovations. Approximately $235,000 in contributions is needed to complete Phase II. The football field house is located in the former Peru Elementary School.

Peru State College Foundation thanks the following donors who contributed to the Jerry Joy Home Locker Room initiative: Timothy and Jolene Alvis Donny and Catherine Anderson Hobert Anderson Stephanie Banks Steve and Carlie Banks Bob and Susi Beaver Ken and Rebecca Boatman Tim Bowen Carolyn Bredemeier Ron and Shelly Brockhaus Blaine Brown Nancy Brown Gerald Carnes Charles and Mary Caverzagie Daniel and Carol Coffey Patricia Collins Mark Czapla Jim and Paula Desbien Cathy and Jim Donahoe Richard Duponcheel Elton and Connie (Sims) Edmond

Ray Ehlers Robert and Judy Eichenberger Barbara and Bill Ely Blake and Gina Faulkner Paul and Arlene Fell Jeffrey and Teresa Frields Thomas and Linda Froehlich William and Doris Galbraith Jerry and Shirley Gallentine Mike and Stephanie Gerdes Rob and Kristy Gerweck Lamarr and Mary Gibson Randy and Lori Gottula Mark and Kim (Fetters) Hahn Judi Haney Mick and Katherine Haney Dan and Elaine Hanson Marty and Catherine Haverty Larry andMarian Henderson Russell Hicks Tim and Cindy Hoffman

Merry Holliday-Hanson Thomas Irvin Vicki and Tom Jacobitz Dean and Marian James Becca and Andy Jewell Scott and Amy Jones Jim Joy Jerry and Christina Joy Mark and Susan Joy Paulette and Kent Joy Richard and Dorothy Joy Cristy Joy Jackie Joy-Eoff Family Don and Nancy Kasbohm Merlin Kastens Ronald & Nancy Kelley Janet Kirkendall Stephen and Diane Krajicek Barry and Anne Lockard Stanley and Gay Longfellow Bruce and Linda Mau

Mary Lu McCoy Bob McKelvey Leonard McLain Pat and Cathy Mertens Jack Moles Rodney and Janie Montang Ritchie Nelson Beverly Parrish Neal Parsons Tracey Joy Plympton Mary Ann Privatt Kent and Becki Propst Max Propst Dave Rosell Todd Ross Garland and Darlene Shafer Forrest and Peggy Shores Jeffrey Slagle Todd and Michelle Simpson Janice Smith Jeff and Robin Smith

Bill and Shirley Snyder Kevin and Carmen Sterner The Tom Stevenson Family Carl and Kay Stukenholtz Diane (Coover) Thomas Charles and Kathleen Todd Al and Kristin Urwin Vandeberg Family Foundation Heather Waring Linda Warren Darrell and Tami Wellman Joseph Wildinger Carole Williams Lanny and Mary Williams Bob and Lucy Winter Neil Wolfe Donald Wright JoAnn Wullschleger Susan and Jerry Wurtele Harlan Zentner

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Bobcat Love Stories:

Peru State has brought together many happy couples over the years. This past year, during the sesquicentennial, visitors to campus were asked to mark the spot where they first met the love of their lives. In the winter Peru Stater edition, alumni and friends were asked to share their Bobcat love stories. Below are stories submitted and some photos from the markers found on campus.

Paul McKay ('95) and Heather (Layson) McKay ('97) met via mutual friends Stephanie (Nedrow) Swanson ('95) and Heather (Nedrow) Rubenking ('96). Heather remembers the first time she saw Paul, who regularly wore his PSC football jacket with bib overalls, Harley Davidson t-shirt, black biker boots and a lil' slugger hat, when he was a customer at the Dairy Chef in Auburn. The two had an immediate connection but remained friends until the summer of '93. Twenty-five years later, the two are still together, happily married (22 years) and have two extraordinary sons, Zachary (16) and Devin (14).

Merritt Jensen (‘40) roomed at the Collin House while he went to Peru State where Mary (Collin) Jensen (‘42) waitressed for her cousins who owned the place. A Christmas dance was planned at the Collin House and Mary told her cousin she wanted to go with that Jensen boy. Her cousin was shocked and told her no - he was wild and wore plaid shirts - but Mary said she wouldn’t go without him. They ended up going together to the party during a cold and icy night where he had to hold her close to keep her warm. They married in 1941 and almost made it 60 years before Mary passed away. Her letter sweater is on display on PSC’s campus.

PSC Road Trip: Homecoming and 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50-Year Reunions

All alumni and friends are invited back to Peru State’s campus this October to celebrate Homecoming. The campus will be decorated to reflect this year’s theme – Road Trip.

During Homecoming weekend of 2018 the Peru State Foundation will be hosting reunion celebrations for the 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 -year reunions. Alumni from the graduating classes of 1968, 1978, 1988, 1998 and 2008 are invited back to campus to celebrate their graduation milestone! Members of the classes from the years before and after each milestone anniversary are also invited to celebrate with their friends and classmates.

The event will include tours, dinner and mingling with classmates on Friday, October 5 and Homecoming festivities on Saturday, October 6, members can choose to take part in the parade if they wish. If you would like more information contact the PSC Foundation at (402) 872-2304 or PSCFoundation@peru.edu.

Special events:

Everyone is invited to the All-College Dinner on October 5!

Alumni of the pep band are invited to participate again this year.

Participate in the parade and show your Peru State spirit!

The Steamboat Trace Bike Ride and Festival coincides with Homecoming on October 6!

Learn more at www.peru.edu/foundation/events.

Homecoming Schedule of Events Friday, October 5

3:30-5 p.m. - Reunion registration in library 3:30-4:30 p.m. - Guided group campus tours 4:30-6 p.m. - Reunion reception at President’s home 6 p.m. - All-College Dinner with special reunion recognition 8 p.m. - Bonfire and Pep Rally

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“It seems as though “it” happened yesterday actually it was seventy years ago – Sept, 1947 at Peru State Teachers College. The first day’s activities started with a convocation for freshman. At the conclusion of the meeting a group of students were asked to meet at the front of the auditorium by the stage. That was the moment I caught my first glimpse of the person I would fall in love with and eventually marry, Jack Tillman. All of the students were informed about the English class we would be assigned. Incidentally my husband majored in English and became an extremely proficient English teacher. He inspired many students into the teaching field.

He played football and I led the cheers and help when naming our pep club “The White Angels.” After receiving my two year teaching certificate, I left Peru to teach school. Jack continued his education until graduating May 1951. In the mean-time we married and started our family. After 64 ½ years of love and marriage, my love passed away. My memory filled love letters (172) are yellow with age. They have helped sustain me while traveling this lonesome journey without him. My children and grandchildren have been my rock. The love of my life selflessly donated his body to science and education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. My plans are to follow. Someday our children and their families will scatter our remains in the hills of Peru. This beautiful love story that began 70 years ago on the Campus of a Thousand Oaks will someday end there.”

Peru Staters Forever,

Colleen “Coke” Williams Tillman, Class 1947-1949 Jack Tillman in spirit, Class 1947-1951 “p.s. I still have the pink dress (70 years old) that I was wearing the first time we met.”

An additional Bobcat love story may be found on page 23.

Saturday, October 6

8 a.m.-2 p.m. - Reunion registration in library 8:30 a.m. - Parade line-up 10 a.m. - Homecoming Parade 10:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. - Tailgate and games with Jazz Band 1 p.m. - 1867 Society Reception 2 p.m. - Football, Halftime Coronation and Pep Band performance

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A Year in Review: PSC Sesquicentennial Peru State College has spent the past year celebrating 150 years of educational excellence. The yearlong celebration kicked off at commencement on May 6, 2017 and ended at commencement on May 5, 2018. There have been many exciting events held throughout the year including an All-College Reunion, Charter Day and Homecoming.

The All-College Reunion was held on the PSC Campus June 16, 17 and 18. Generations of alumni gathered in Peru for a fun-filled weekend to commemorate and reminisce on their time spent at PSC. Friday activities included campus tours, the recently renovated Delzell Hall was opened for touring, the President’s All-College Dinner held in the Student Center along with the launch of Dan Sullivan’s book, Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future since 1867. Friday evening’s dinner was capped off by a tornado warning that brought everyone to the Student Center basement. What started as a potentially scary event became a weekend highlight with the sharing of stories from the past times, friendships made, pranks played and love that was found.

On Saturday during the day, various workshops were held on Campus such as History of the College, Peru State Legacy, Genealogy of Nebraska, amongst several other

presentations. At lunch, everyone gathered back at the Student Center for a hot meal and further stories from alumni. In the afternoon, the workshops continued along with a film viewing from athletics and PSC archives. A Bobcat Block Party was held on the quad Saturday night that included wine and beer tasting along with live music and inflatables for children to enjoy. At the end of the night, alumni and friends gathered at Sapp Plaza for mingling and s’mores.

The State of Nebraska and Peru State College were both established in 1867 leading to the intersecting of celebrations. On June 20, PSC hosted the Charter Day Celebration - the date that Nebraska’s first territorial legislative session signed the charter authorizing a statesupported college to be established in Peru.

Events included Pioneer Day, where children dressed as they would have in 1867, ate lunch out of tin buckets, performed music from that era and did arts and crafts using items from that time.

In the evening, rag time music welcomed guests to Campus where Chautauqua speakers rode in on a horse-drawn buggy and held a presentation. Following the presentation, everyone was invited to dinner at the Student Center where the program for the evening highlighted Peru’s past, present and future.

On October 27, during Homecoming the new All-College Banquet was held on campus with special recognition for 10, 30 and 50 year graduates. Following dinner, guests were welcome to attend a bonfire and pep rally held at Sapp Plaza or the fall choir concert performed by PSC choral students.

The activities from Friday evening led everyone into the excitement of Saturday, October 28th. It was a frigid morning but that did not slow down the enthusiasm for the Homecoming parade, all the participants and those that gathered along the streets of Peru to watch. Lunch was held on the Campus, where folks enjoyed live music, a warm meal, comradery and the Delzell Hall Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. The excitement of the morning led everyone to the Oak Bowl to cheer on the Peru State College Football Team. During the game, former cheerleaders were invited back to perform with the current cheer team and pep band alumni were able to perform with the band.

Past kings and queens, along with former Student Senate Presidents, were recognized on the field during halftime.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the year a success!

Lori (Speckman) Broady ('90, '03) helps children who participated in the Charter Day daytime activities.

Dr. Dan Hanson is joined by Humanities Nebraska’s 2017 Chautauqua presenters portraying Woodrow Wilson, Jane Addams, Edith Wharton and William Jennings Bryan in celebration of Peru State’s Charter Day.

Retired professor, Dr. Bill Snyder, shares a memory with the All-College Reunion attendees. The sesquicentennial celebration brought many alumni and friends to campus. Throughout the year, alumni events had record attendance.

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Peru State College – Engaging the Future Continued from page 2.

Vision: Peru State College will be renowned for

transforming student lives through personal and engaging educational experiences.

Values: Peru State College lives its mission and vision through engagement in the classroom, engagement across campus, and engagement in the region and beyond while valuing: Pride: We proudly celebrate our history as Nebraska’s first College, our heritage of educating all students, and our tradition of achievement by students, alumni, faculty, and staff. We cherish the stately Campus of a Thousand Oaks entrusted to us.

Excellence: We pursue excellence through best practices and innovation in scholarship, teaching, research, and student development. We commit to providing exceptional facilities and resources supporting an engaged collegiate experience Resilience: We recognize resilience as a key factor in success. We provide support and encouragement to achieve high standards by cultivating passion and perseverance.

Unity: We embrace unity as a diverse and inclusive community. We believe in creating a culture of respect,

Goal One: Academic Excellence through Engagement

The academic mission of the College is at the core of the strategic plan. This goal has strategies that focus on academic distinction, building partnerships in the region and with alumni, enhancement of proven engaged learning strategies and investing in our faculty members.

Goal Two: Transformative Student Experience

Enriching student lives through opportunities and support is the emphasis of the strategies supporting Goal Two. The strategies for this goal address expansion of campus activities, student leadership opportunities and community service. In addition, preparing to serve the state’s changing student demographics and enhance the safety of the campus are highlighted. Perhaps most important for the campus community are strategies that emphasize career

development opportunities tailored to a student’s academic progression.

Goal Three: Sharing the Peru State Story

Goal Three continues the College priority to increase the prominence of the institution. Strategies outline efforts to communicate the many accomplishments of the campus community, remain dedicated to developing strong alumni relationships, communicate the distinctiveness of Peru State’s engaged learning and bring more visitors to our beautiful campus.

Goal Four: Excellence for the Future

Goal Four strategies focus on investment in students, human resources of the College, facilities, and enrollment.

This includes finding ways to fund additional scholarships for students. Key strategies include investing in the City of Peru and finding ways to fund a new Student Center for the campus. One strategy focuses on enrollment growth implementing a data driven process to identify programs or activities that could enhance enrollment.

To keep up-to-date on Peru State College’s strategic plan, its implementation and to find additional information, visit www.peru.edu/strategicplan.

Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future Since 1867 Cost: $39.95 per book | Shipping and handling: $5.00 per book

1867-2017

U T U R E SI NC E 18 6 7

ates its 150th year in 2017. a rich tapestry of innovation, nd the pursuit of educational entennial with a look back through with a vision on a hilltop in Peru.

N E B R A SKA’S F I R S T C OL L E G E

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SHA P I N G T H E F U T U R E SI N C E 18 6 7

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mutual support, and understanding. We lead and model this culture on campus, in the region, and around the world.

Four goals support the vision. For each goal, outcomes and key performance indicators with targets are identified.

These key performance indicators will be tracked and reviewed annually. Several strategies to achieve each goal are presented and steps to accomplish each strategy are listed.

Commemorate your graduation and time at Peru State College with a special edition book celebrating the college’s dynamic history and impact on the region. Written by the Omaha World Herald’s Dan Sullivan, the book details the founding of Peru State College and its growth over 150 years.

1867-2017

“Peru’s first students planted trees around a single school building with a tarpaper roof. Today stands the Campus of a Thousand Oaks. Just down the road, satellite-guided tractors till Missouri River bottomland where teams of horses once pulled plows. Countless changes have occurred over 150 years. But in 2017, as in 1867, a beacon of learning shines brightly on a hilltop in Peru.”

– Dan Sullivan, Author, Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future Since 1867

Order your copy today! Pay online or send in this registration form with check payable to the Peru State College Foundation.

Name:

Nebraska’s First College

City:

Street:

Phone:

Email:

Number of Copies: Order online! Go to peru.edu/foundation/alumni-association from peru.edu/150 peru.edu/foundation/alumni-association to learn more.

SHA PI NG T H E F U T U R E SI NC E 18 6 7 DA N S U L L I VA N

Send registration form and check to Peru State College Foundation, P.O. Box 10, Peru, NE 68421

$39.95 © 2017 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

4/28/2017 11:37:29 AM

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Address:

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Bobcats Giving Back Ken Boatman (’66): “I believe you should give back”

Ken Boatman describes his college career like this: “I graduated, but it was not a typical path.” Boatman received his education from a variety of schools, including the one-room Boatman School near Nemaha, Nebraska, other schools in Shubert, Nemaha, and Auburn, and four colleges including Clemson University, where he received his Master’s degree.

Boatman graduated from Peru State College with a business degree in 1966, even though he had what he calls “a few academic bumps” along the way. “It was a wonderful experience.

Peru State gave me a chance, and I have appreciated it since the day I graduated.”

Known to classmates as “Kenny,” Boatman is one of the newest members of the 1867 Society which recognizes people who have included the Peru State College Foundation in a will or estate plan. Boatman has included Peru State College Foundation as a designated beneficiary of a portion of his retirement funds.

Retirement assets make a convenient gift to charitable organizations. Retirement assets gifted to heirs through a beneficiary designation are typically subject to taxation. By designating one or more charitable organizations as a beneficiary of an IRA or other retirement fund, a donor gets to direct more of his or her assets toward favorite causes instead of to taxes.

Boatman is involved with three charities and actively supports them. “I believe you should give back to the community you live in at some level,” says Boatman. “Peru State gave me a quality education, and continues to give a quality education to thousands of students in the area.” For Boatman, giving back has included making charitable contributions, coaching youth sports teams, and taking active roles in service organizations including the Lions and the Military Order of the World Wars. Boatman added, “My children have succeeded and do not need all of my inheritance.”

Following his graduation from Peru State, Boatman served for eight years in the U.S. Army with posts in Hawaii, Vietnam, Germany, Fort Meade and Fort Sill and achieved the rank of Captain. He then joined the Army Reserves and retired as Lieutenant Colonel. He has been married for 32 years and had a successful 30-year career in sales. Ken resides in Dallas, Texas and is enjoying a very active retirement making art in ceramics, sculptural welding, and photography, and traveling throughout the United States and internationally.

To inquire about making a beneficiary designation or other estate gift to the Peru State College Foundation, call 402-872-2304 or email PSCFoundation@peru.edu. If you have already included the Peru State College Foundation in a will, estate plan, or as a beneficiary of retirement funds or life insurance and would like to be recognized as a member of the 1867 Society, please notify the Foundation. 1867 Society members like Ken Boatman are paving the way toward a bright future for Peru State College.

Ken and Rebecca Boatman

To explore the many options for supporting scholarships at Peru State College, contact the Foundation at 402-872-2304.

Ken and Rebecca Boatman joined by friends at the All-College Reunion. L to R: Melanie (Gould) Bouton ('66), Rebecca Boatman, Ken Boatman ('66), Bruce Mau ('65), Todd Simpson ('15), Jimmy O'Donoghue ('68).

President Dan Hanson and Ken Boatman

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National Alumni Association (NAA) FAQs: Q: How do I become a member of the National Alumni Association?

A: Membership is free and automatic for Peru State alumni and friends!

Q: What is the definition of alumni and friends?

A: Alumni Members – Those who have attended the College. Graduating is not a requirement to be considered an alumnus or alumnae.

Friends –Those who have given to or supported the College, including PSC faculty and staff and Peru Prep graduates, and have not attended Peru State College.

Update your contact information with the PSC Foundation to receive NAA benefits and event invitations by emailing pscfoundation@peru.edu or calling (402) 872-2304.

Interested in giving to support Peru State?

Donate online at peru.thankyou4caring.org or by contacting the PSC Foundation at (402) 872-2304 or pscfoundation@peru.edu.

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2017 Donor Honor Roll 1930s

Dorothy Blount*, 1937 Mildred Weber, 1939

1940s

Merritt Jensen, 1940 Phyllis Hoffman, 1941 Lois Adams, 1942 Max Burroughs, 1942 Max & Wilma Jackson, 1942 Melvin Larsen, 1942 Helen Moody, 1942 Edith Norris, 1942 Nelda Peterson, 1942 Nina Klaudt, 1943 Marjorie Rider, 1943 Wanda Schmidt, 1943 Virginia Stuhr, 1943 Densel Fankhauser, 1944 Mary Cashman, 1945 Paul Henry, 1945 Shirley Wenzel, 1945 Dick & Mary Mastain, 1946 Alverta Wells, 1946 Margaret Harrold, 1947 Max ('47) & Janice ('47) Hosier Ruth Lienemann, 1947 Nelle Pfister, 1947 George Blocher, 1948 Wanda Conradt, 1948 Lura Herr, 1948 Ruth Nixon, 1948 Evelyn Yanders, 1948 Bernard Bliefernich, 1949 Thomas & Dorothy Hallstrom, 1949 Duane Jones, 1949 David Lang, 1949 Joan Marfice, 1949 Robert ('49) & Lorene ('78) Trail Don Wagner, 1949 Helen Wilkinson, 1949

1950s

Gertrude Ettleman, 1950 Orville ('50) & Erma ('49) Gobber Mary Koetke, 1950 Bobby Livingston, 1950 Babette Marten, 1950 Jean Niedfeldt, 1950 Elaine Roberts, 1950 Russell Ruth, 1950 Bob Utermohlen, 1950 Lewis & Darlene Weick, 1950 Kenneth Wolford, 1950 William ('51) & Lavonda ('51) Abernathy Joseph Gillispie, 1951 Carlos Harrison, 1951 Ruth Leslie, 1951 Grace Pfister, 1951 Otto Rath, 1951

Ardith Rockeman, 1951 Annabelle Rumbaugh, 1951 Carolyn Sipes, 1951 Evelyn Spence, 1951 William Voegtli, 1951 Alta Dakolios, 1952 Marlan* & Marea Downey, 1952 Dorothy Duerfeldt, 1952 Anna Falsken, 1952 Dorothy Farrow, 1952 Cecil McKnight, 1952 Don Ogle, 1952 Barbara Rawson, 1952 Robert Ryan, 1952 Ronald Schulte, 1952 Darlene Spilker, 1952 Jean Thayer, 1952 Carol Whitcomb, 1952 Anna White, 1952 Lavon ('53) & Gleora ('75) Covault Bob Davis, 1953 Ralph Etter, 1953 Ilene Good, 1953 Jo Kaffenberger, 1953 Sharon Ocker, 1953 Harold Rasplicka, 1953 Bill ('53) & Janice ('52) Schulte Marilyn Van Groningen, 1953 Fran Whited, 1953 Loren & Elsie Argabright, 1954 Phyllis Atchison, 1954 Thomas & Leta Bosworth, 1954 Regina Colbert, 1954 Ben & Carol Duerfeldt, 1954 Kenneth & Mary Hoag, 1954 Dale ('54) & Ann ('56) Moore Janet Moore, 1954 Curtis & Mary Sederburg, 1954 Jeanne Wall, 1954 John Christ, 1955 Marilyn Clements, 1955 John ('55) & Ramona ('55) Crookham Vernal Faller, 1955 Virginia Good, 1955 Mary Gorden, 1955 Greta Holscher, 1955 Dean ('55) & Marilynn ('86) Meisinger William ('55) & Laverna ('61) Sayer Henry ('55) & Marcia ('59) Schwartz Anita Webster, 1955 Donald Wendt, 1955 Bertis ('56) & Georgia ('56) Adams Clyde ('56) & Betty ('57) Barrett Darrell Christensen, 1956 Betsy Diehl, 1956 Junior* ('56) & Virginia ('58) Karas Elaine Koenig, 1956 Shirley Krejci, 1956 Lois McMullen, 1956 Nels & Kathryn Overgaard, 1956

Charles ('56) & Vickie ('71) Pickering Jim Porter, 1956 John ('56) & Gera ('55) Stilwell Paul Weinert, 1956 Marlene Alberts, 1957 Betty Brackhahn, 1957 Gerald Carnes, 1957 Ray & Gwen Graves, 1957 Keith Johnson, 1957 Richard Kapperman*, 1957 Chuck Krumme, 1957 Margaret McConnaughey, 1957 Wayne ('57) & Carol ('54) Minchow Norman Nelson, 1957 Karen Nichols, 1957 Lee Ogle, 1957 Kermit Overgaard, 1957 Fred Rothert, 1957 Doris Wuster, 1957 Lois Bemiss, 1958 Ronald Brock, 1958 Muriel Docker, 1958 Ray Ehlers, 1958 Norman ('58) & Carol ('53) Frerichs Donald Gibson, 1958 Rod & Sharon Heim, 1958 Richard Kumpf, 1958 Jerry Ludwig, 1958 Robert Norvell, 1958 Jerry Payne, 1958 Donna Ressell, 1958 Marjorie Scribner, 1958 Louise Searcey, 1958 Carol Sparr, 1958 Fran Witt, 1958 Gary Adams, 1959 Bob ('59) & Mary ('66) Bohlken Leroy Buchholz, 1959 Nadine Danielson-Cusack, 1959 Jack Dodge, 1959 Arnold ('59) & Sharon ('58) Ehlers Bob ('59) & Carolyn ('58) Henry Margaret Kilibarda, 1959 Virginia Meyerkorth, 1959 Maxine Moore, 1959 Donna Nenneman, 1959 Lynn ('61) & Pauline ('59) Osterholm Wayne ('59) & Gloria ('66) Pressnall Jean Rottman, 1959 Raymond ('59) & Rose ('58) Ruzicka Henry ('55) & Marcia ('59) Schwartz Lucille Sharp, 1959 Marvin Thomsen, 1959 Marilyn Todsen, 1959 Samantha Williamson, 1959

1960s

Gary ('60) & Marian ('60) Anderson Marlene Ballance, 1960 Jerry ('60) & Virginia ('60) Beckmann Marvin Bergsten, 1960

Lon Bottcher, 1960 Harry Bryant, 1960 Ruth Dietrich, 1960 Chuck Francis, 1960 David ('60) & Rae ('60) Fulton Dennis ('60) & Linda ('60) Hilfiker Donald Jackson, 1960 Carroll ('60) & Martha ('60) Johnson Donald ('60) & Nancy ('57) Kasbohm Delynn Kienker, 1960 Jere* ('60) & Jan ('60) Krakow Dick Kunde, 1960 Carolyn Law, 1960 Ernie Madison, 1960 John McCracken, 1960 Janet Mortimore, 1960 Ronald Stoltenberg, 1960 Wanda Arnold, 1961 Stephen Banks, 1961 Karen Bethel, 1961 Connie Biggers, 1961 Marilyn Borgerding, 1961 Norman Catlett, 1961 Lee Dostal, 1961 Lamarr Gibson, 1961 Alyce Green, 1961 Robert Heng, 1961 Luanne Lindquist, 1961 Stanley & Gay Longfellow, 1961 Darlene McCord, 1961 Haney ('61) & Karen ('73) Milstead Rose Parli, 1961 Gordon Pilmore, 1961 Robert Raper, 1961 Michael Roddy, 1961 Donna Schwertley, 1961 Gary Scoggin, 1961 Alan Wheeler, 1961 Judy Allgood, 1962 Linda Bell, 1962 Ronald Carnes, 1962 Katherine Domingo, 1962 William ('62) & Doris ('63) Galbraith, 1963 John Greene, 1962 Ellen Hajek, 1962 Jon Iverson, 1962 Ruth Johnson, 1962 Leonard McLain, 1962 Ray ('62) & Myrna ('62) Meister Allen Nelson, 1962 Gordon Ohnoutka, 1962 Kenneth ('62) & Jane ('64) Rhodus Dorothy Rydberg, 1962 Richard ('62) & Kay ('62) Stock Gaylin ('62) & Carol ('63) Sudik Roger Wellensiek, 1962 Paul Bodtke, 1963 Anita Cox, 1963 Lee Haeberlein, 1963 Mel Hamel, 1963

Larry Hennerberg, 1963 Russell Hicks, 1963 Ronald & Nancy Kelley, 1963 Milan Kloepfer, 1963 Sharylin Knock, 1963 Michael Leahy, 1963 Charlotte Lunsford, 1963 Linda Moree, 1963 Steve Parker, 1963 Joseph ('64) & Susan ('63) Perina Mary Ann Privatt, 1963 Larry Rathe, 1963 Robert Reitz, 1963 Gary ('63) & Mary ('63) Schlange Enoch Shepherd, 1963 Dean Stapleton, 1963 Larry ('63) & Ramona ('61) Swett Russel Workman, 1963 Janice Bradbury, 1964 Laurel Brewer, 1964 Thomas Buchholz, 1964 Charlie ('64) & Mary ('66) Caverzagie Robert & Judy Eichenberger, 1964 Rudolph Eichenberger, 1964 Ginny Janis, 1964 Jerry ('64) & Christina ('88) Joy JoAnn Krause, 1964 Linda Kreimeyer, 1964 Bonnie Kreshel, 1964 Mike ('64) & Sandy ('61) Ramirez Lloyd ('64) & Betty ('64) Russo Donald ('64) & Ardith ('63) Rut Frances Steinbrook, 1964 Gary Strange, 1964 Carl Stukenholtz, 1964 Beverly Weiss, 1964 Carole Williams, 1964 David Albert, 1965 JoAnn Barry, 1965 Janet Bierman, 1965 Don ('65) & Marcia ('65) Cobb Daniel ('65) & Carol ('68) Coffey Gene D'Allemand, 1965 Alfred Eickhoff, 1965 Glaura Falk, 1965 Richard ('65) & Beverly ('63) Floerchinger Ronald Foreman, 1965 Larry Giesmann, 1965 David ('65) & Linda ('64) Gomon Ilma Gottula, 1965 Duane Haith, 1965 Judy Hetherington, 1965 Merlin Kastens, 1965 Dan Leuenberger, 1965 Edwin ('65) & Marilyn ('66) Loontjer Bruce ('65) & Linda Mau ('66) Norma McKercher, 1965 Marion ('65) & Barbara ('65) Miller Larry Morrissey, 1965 Mariedith Pagel, 1965

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Lonn Pressnall, 1965 Channing Redfield, 1965 Frank Spizuoco, 1965 George ('65)& Barbara ('66) Weiss Donald Wright, 1965 Kenneth Boatman, 1966 Linda Carlson, 1966 Alicia Fricke, 1966 Louis Fritz, 1966 James Hanks, 1966 Anne Hill, 1966 Mary Hilt, 1966 Lonnie ('66) & Nancy ('63) Houchin Barry Kennedy, 1966 Julia Kern, 1966 Robert Leander, 1966 Larry ('66) & Margaret ('66) Lines Norma Loew, 1966 Harold Marshall, 1966 Michael McCormick, 1966 Verona Neumann, 1966 Katherine Nunnery, 1966 Loren Penkava, 1966 Marilyn Ryan, 1966 Jerry Sayer, 1966 Alan Shipley, 1966 Brenda Teleen, 1966 Shirley Wach, 1966 Joseph Wildinger, 1966 Dorothy Willis, 1966 William Witty, 1966 Velma Adam, 1967 Rodger ('67) & Joan ('68) Bassett Lon Bohling, 1967 Ray ('67) & Connie ('67) Cain Richard Duponcheel, 1967 Paul ('67) & Arlene ('67) Fell Kay Fish, 1967 Timothy Gilligan, 1967 Phyllis Greedy, 1967 Mike & Janice Guilliatt, 1967 Carol Henning, 1967 Virginia Jones, 1967 Vernon Krenzer, 1967 Roger Lucas, 1967 Nancy Nealon, 1967 Darrell Plumb, 1967 Frank Ruecker, 1967 Carol Schmucker, 1967 James Stanosheck, 1967 Leonard Tomlyn, 1967 John Witler, 1967 Lee Arellano, 1968 Donald ('68) & Carolyn ('61) Bedea Charles Bowman, 1968 Eston Clarke, 1968 Douglas Cramer, 1968 Richard Daly, 1968 James Harris, 1968 Antoinette Faulkner, 1968 Stanley ('68) & Barbara ('68) Johnson

William Kerins, 1968 Tim ('68) & Jean ('69) Logsdon Carol Martin, 1968 Mary Lu McCoy, 1968 Jack McVicker, 1968 Teresa Minard, 1968 Romona ('68) & Richard ('69) Moore Larry* ('68) & Charlotte ('68) Nedrow James O'Donoghue, 1968 Marvene Rogers, 1968 Ralph Schawang, 1968 James Selk, 1968 Chuck Shores, 1968 Kennard Stoner, 1968 Donald ('68) & Donita ('67) Stuart David Tickner, 1968 Bruce Vickrey, 1968 Michael Wallis, 1968 Richard Zaparanick, 1968 Mildred Appleoff, 1969 John Bernadt, 1969 James Butts, 1969 Ken Carnes, 1969 John Creamer, 1969 Judy Gravell, 1969 Patsy Harpster, 1969 Bruce Haughton, 1969 Butch & Dobey Haws, 1969 Larry ('69) & Marian ('93) Henderson Lavelle Hitzemann, 1969 Mary Kanter, 1969 Larry Landwehr, 1969 Richard Linder, 1969 Chuck ('69) & Alice ('69) Mizerski Anita Norman, 1969 Richard Ogle, 1969 Nick ('69) & Cheri ('68) Petrillo Lois Pietzyk, 1969 David Rainforth, 1969 Robert Ridenour, 1969 Marilyn Scheinost, 1969 Richard ('69) & Margaret ('70) Smith

1970s

Van Allen, 1970 Robert Beran, 1970 George Bleich, 1970 Larry Cotton, 1970 Dennis Curtis, 1970 Don ('70) & Claudia ('71) Dougherty Barbara Easley, 1970 Stanley Johnson, 1970 Ronald Jones, 1970 Linda Morris, 1970 Chuck Niemeyer, 1970 Dennis ('70) & Carole ('73) Obermeyer Gary Rosso, 1970 David Sackles, 1970 Elaine Stuck, 1970 Barbara Vogel, 1970

Dennis ('70) & Janet ('70) Watts Donald Wiechec, 1970 Patti Will, 1970 Evelyn Buethe, 1971 Jody Bukacek, 1971 Steven Drake, 1971 Rose Duncan, 1971 Eldonna Forrest, 1971 Jayne Fredrickson, 1971 Larry & Sue Green, 1971 Dennis Hammer, 1971 Patricia Holmes, 1971 Michael Johnson, 1971 Robert Kiser, 1971 Robert Lisec, 1971 Daisy Malcom, 1971 Maynard ('71) & Dianne ('71) Martin Darwin McHugh, 1971 Robert ('71) & Glenrose ('70) Meier Ronald (71) & Susan ('72) Meyer Rodney ('71) & Janie ('76) Montang Gary ('71) & Glenda ('70) Nelson Thomas Pitts, 1971 Willa Jean Stutheit, 1971 Joseph ('71) & Joyce ('72) Tackett Lanny ('71) & Mary ('93) Williams Helen Aufenkamp, 1972 James Bailey, 1972 Roger ('72) & Linda ('74) Behrns Earl Brown, 1972 Maureen Carpenter, 1972 Paul & Linda Chatelain, 1972 Nancy Crook, 1972 James ('72) & Dianne ('73) Dickson Dale Duensing, 1972 Daniel Eichenberger, 1972 John Furlong, 1972 Jay Hagerman, 1972 Larry Humphrey, 1972 Patricia Hunsberger, 1972 Danny Jeanneret, 1972 Larry ('72) & Barbara ('73) Jones Mary Kellogg, 1972 Charles Klingler, 1972 Douglas Kottich, 1972 Mary Lade, 1972 Kennard Larson, 1972 Sharon Maynard, 1972 Sandy Miles, 1972 Ed Myers, 1972 Robert ('72) & Judy ('71) Peterson Joan Shurtliff, 1972 Dianne Springer, 1972 Steve Stemper, 1972 Esther Tegtmeier, 1972 Dean Teten, 1972 Robert Tipton, 1972 Charles Trailer, 1972 Jon Tritsch, 1972 Dominic Vitticore, 1972 Raymond Waters, 1972

James Wilson, 1972 Bob & Susi Beaver, 1973 James & Paula Desbien, 1973 Kay Eickhoff, 1973 Bob Engles, 1973 Susan Foster, 1973 Steven ('73) & Nancy ('98) Gage Mary Givehand, 1973 Mark ('73) & Kim ('74) Hahn Rena Hall, 1973 Allison & Martin Hayes, 1973 Bonnie Hiykel, 1973 David Koll, 1973 Fred ('73) & Trudy ('74) Lainson Randy Luther, 1973 Roger Michaelis, 1973 William Peterson, 1973 Terry Ratliff, 1973 Dennis Robertson, 1973 Fred & Pam Robertson, 1973 Patricia Sheehan, 1973 Ernie Templeton, 1973 Jay Van Housen, 1973 Richard & Ann ('73)Watson Jeffrey ('74) & Mary ('75) Barker Thomas Froehlich, 1974 Mary Green, 1974 Charles Heim, 1974 Patricia Hopp, 1974 Janet Kirkendall, 1974 Stephen Krajicek, 1974 James Landwehr, 1974 Lee ('74) & Mary ('77) Miller Terry ('74) & Marlene ('72) Neddenriep Judy Souder, 1974 Jack Stanley, 1974 Gayle Swisegood, 1974 Bob ('74) & Lucy ('76) Winter Arnold & Kimberly Allgood,1975 Russell & Julie Barnes, 1975 David Chatelain, 1975 William Collins, 1975 Robert Craig, 1975 Terry ('75) & Carolyn ('78) Glathar Kathy Kelly, 1975 Doug Kingery, 1975 Deborah Larson, 1975 Bob McKelvey, 1975 Debra Stinn, 1975 John Trayer, 1975 Dennis Williams, 1975 John Chatelain, 1976 Anne Collingwood, 1976 Patricia Collins, 1976 Michael ('76) & Janet Davis Linda Dickeson, 1976 Peggy Groff, 1976 Gail Harmon, 1976 Jeanne ('76) & Dave ('92) Helms Annie Jones-Rucker, 1976

Lennie & Dianne Lahman, 1976 Ann Martinez, 1976 Scott ('76) & Laurita ('76) McKercher Alan Seybert, 1976 Jim Winkelman, 1976 Janet Barlow, 1977 Roland Barrett, 1977 Ray & Nancy Boeche, 1977 Rhonda Burbach, 1977 John ('77) & Phyllis ('14) Dierking Ray Dierking, 1977 Ted Harshbarger, 1977 Dale Hoepker, 1977 Joseph Kotnik, 1977 Colleen Kreifels, 1977 Dave ('77) & Kim Stemper Carolyn Bednar, 1978 Steve & Mary Jo Chatelain, 1978 Rhonda Chomos, 1978 Dan Ehmke, 1978 Robert Garcia, 1978 Ed ('78) & Debra ('80) Harris Butch & Penny Kimball, 1978 Helen Pugh, 1978 Mary Scott, 1978 Bill & Shirley ('78) Snyder Karen Spracklin, 1978 Richard Vollertsen, 1978 Rod White, 1978 Cindy Bangert, 1979 Jeffrey Jacob, 1979 Larry Joe, 1979 Phyllis Kreutzer, 1979 Calvin Kunze, 1979 Jeffrey & Mary Pease, 1979 Virginia & David Pippert, 1979 Sharon Russell, 1979

1980s

Stacy Applegate, 1980 Joni Davis, 1980 Don Hardekopf, 1980 Loretta Johnson, 1980 Jack Moles, 1980 Joseph Primm, 1980 Kevin & Carmen Sterner, 1980 David ('80) & Susan ('86) Thomas Kathleen ('80) & Charles ('97) Todd Timothy & Jolene Alvis, 1981 Keith Mullins, 1981 Kent ('81) & Becki ('80) Propst Virginia Schlender, 1981 Mark ('71) & Kathleen ('81) Weiler Verdell Bohling, 1982 Janet Dingman, 1982 Jeffrey ('82) & Teresa ('77) Frields Mick ('82) & Katherine ('82) Haney Martin Haverty, 1982 Alvin & Renee Holder, 1982 Karen Koehler, 1982 Dave Rossell, 1982

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2017 Donor Honor Roll John Teten, 1982 Al & Kristin Urwin, 1982 Darrell ('82) & Tami ('81) Wellman Polly Clark, 1983 Russ Freitag, 1983 Barbara Froeschl, 1983 Thomas Irvin, 1983 Mark Joy, 1983 Mary Martin, 1983 Laurie Schulte, 1983 Garland & Darlene Shafer, 1983 Jeff & Robin Smith, 1983 Suzanne Whisler, 1983 Jeff Wignall, 1983 Natalie ('84) & Eugene ('83) Applegate Sharon Clelland, 1984 Curtis & Lisa Cogswell, 1984 Twila Fickel, 1984 Karen Gay, 1984 Tim ('84) & Cindy ('82) Hoffman Julia Martinosky, 1984 Pamela Mitchell, 1984 Roselyn Shaffer, 1984 Stephanie Shrader, 1984 Carl Stevenson, 1984 Neil Wolfe, 1984 Karen Wolken, 1984 Robert & Jody Bowman, 1985 Christopher Cerveny, 1985 Susan Coonce, 1985 Wayne Dolezal, 1985 Rob Gerweck, 1985 Lee ('82) & Rebecca ('85) Kohrs Rodney Reuter, 1985 Todd Ross, 1985 Kevin Schlange, 1985 Todd Slagle, 1985 Donny & Catherine Anderson, 1986 Todd & Brenda Anderson, 1986 Brian Bradley, 1986 Carol Chappell, 1986 Lori Cook, 1986 Julie Gottula, 1986 Robert Graham, 1986 Jim ('86) & Theresa ('85) Krajicek Anthony Markey, 1986 Pat & Cathy Mertens, 1986 Steven & Kristen Miller, 1986 Ritchie Nelson, 1986 Jeff ('86) & Nancy ('88) Reed Christopher ('86) & Michelle ('86) Salberg Jeffrey Slagle, 1986 Valorie Zentner, 1986 Daniel Casey, 1987 Amy Clark, 1987 Mary Comstock, 1987 Mark Czapla, 1987 Tedd Lamprecht, 1987 Billie McGough, 1987

Mark Paneitz, 1987 Mari-Ann Pesek, 1987 Kevin Rahner, 1987 Mary Rathe, 1987 Randy Reeves, 1987 Susan Rice, 1987 Vicki Beilke, 1988 Ron Brockhaus,1988 Anita Downing-Hueftle, 1988 Elton ('88) & Connie ('87) Edmond Michael & Stephanie Gerdes, 1988 James ('88) & Anne ('89) Larsen Beverly Schwab, 1988 Max Ward, 1988 Roxann Coudeyras, 1989 Janice Dawson, 1989 Janice Godinez, 1989 Mary Grimes, 1989 Ruth Larsen, 1989 Lisa Osborne, 1989 Susan Pease, 1989 Cindy Peterson,1989 Anne Stribling, 1989 Julie Tubbesing, 1989 Jay Wiechmann, 1989

1990s

Kevin & Karen Caverzagie, 1990 Kory Lind, 1990 Barry Lockard, 1990 Kaylee Michalski, 1990 Steven ('90) & Erin ('91) Sayer Alan Vervaecke, 1990 Cherie ('89) & John ('90) Welter Tony Anville, 1991 Cathie English, 1991 Mary Findeis, 1991 Sandra Hilding, 1991 Merry Holliday-Hanson, 1991 Scott ('93) & Amy ('91) Jones Heath & Judy Miller, 1991 Janice Smith, 1991 Heather Waring, 1991 Angela Antholz, 1992 Susan Cade, 1992 Wei Chong, 1992 Denise Daake, 1992 Melissa Decker, 1992 Jean Everhart, 1992 Carolyn Krack, 1992 Linda & Garrett Mann, 1992 Robert Nelson, 1992 Jeanne Speckmann, 1992 Miriam Werner, 1992 Tim Bowen, 1993 Diana Conradt-Mullen, 1993 Jeffrey Cullison, 1993 Michelle Manes, 1993 William Raftery, 1993 Mark Shively, 1993 Dana Stovall, 1993

Bryan & Stacy Sullivan, 1993 Lori Tibbs, 1993 Tony ('93) & Mary ('92) Uhlir Tracy VanDyke, 1993 Sara Veigel, 1993 Robin Billings, 1994 Peter Dennis, 1994 Joan Fink, 1994 Jason Fortik, 1994 Daniel Gauchat, 1994 Dee Hannaford, 1994 Julie Holthaus, 1994 Paulette Joy, 1994 Richard Marcoux, 1994 Betsy Reed, 1994 Tony Rieschick, 1994 Kurt Schlange, 1994 Nancy Vogt, 1994 Ivan Wineglass, 1994 Alexander Zambrano, 1994 Susan Abrahams, 1995 Julie Bauman, 1995 Bing Bender, 1995 Brandy Feighner, 1995 Dewey Fingar, 1995 Lisa Parriott, 1995 Benjamin ('95) & Jamie ('96) Royal Jeffrey & Audra Schawang, 1995 Barbara Beatty, 1996 Joan Christen, 1996 Joe ('96) & Jennifer ('97) Dunn James Endorf, 1996 Jay Grotrian, 1996 Pat ('08) & Deanna ('96) Haverty Renae Oswald, 1996 Diane Thomas, 1996 Lou & Cindy ('96) Varley Teri Stukenholtz, 1997 Monica Yankus, 1997 Ed Ankrom, 1998 Tiffany Gauchat, 1998 Susan Johnson, 1998 Kimberly Oliver, 1998 Russell & Stephanie Olsen, 1998 Shirley Parde, 1998 John Sayer, 1998 Heath ('98) & Lindsay ('05) Stanley Jason ('98) & Ronda ('99) Stinson Deborah Breuer, 1999 Joan Brown, 1999 Teri Dorn, 1999 Cathy Fugleberg, 1999 Scott ('99) & Erin ('98) Hochstein Carrie Jeanneret, 1999 Celeste Jones, 1999 Jason Ross ('99) & Laura Bando-Ross ('98) Jamar Williams, 1999

2000s

Tammie Hart, 2000

Steven Heine, 2000 Dennis Kennedy, 2000 Ann Severin, 2000 Tamara Westhart, 2000 Jenifer Busing, 2001 Sheryl Gaston, 2001 Karen Horky, 2001 Frank Kostal, 2001 Darlene Merz, 2001 Kelly Price, 2001 Michael Wilson, 2001 Donna Damme, 2002 Sheri Grotrian-Ryan & Kyle Ryan, 2002 Danny ('02) & Nikki ('04) Hayes Darlon Rohlff, 2002 Tonya Volk, 2002 Lori Broady, 2003 Austin Budden, 2004 Conni Charles, 2004 John Esplen, 2004 Clinton Pebley, 2004 David Turner, 2004 Kevin Wegener, 2004 Suzanne Ackerman, 2005 David Bremer, 2005 Sally Ford, 2005 Becky ('05) & Tony ('05) Johnson Gary ('05) & Stephanie ('04) Mercer Aaron ('05) & Rebecca ('05) Thumann Wendy Brennan, 2006 Joanna Cielocha, 2006 Jowan Collins-Remmenga, 2006 Thomas ('06) & Jari ('07) Dunekacke Timothy Hahn, 2006 Joseph ('06) & Kristin ('06) Tynon Jean Anderson, 2007 Wende Bergmeier, 2007 Nate Lygrisse, 2007 Michael ('07) & Danni ('09) Stoddard Belle Williams, 2007 Megan Howe, 2008 John Korthals, 2008 Leighton Michaelson, 2008 Donna Neeman, 2008 Jacob Thompson-Krug, 2009 Jamie Wolbert, 2009

2010s

Michael Swigert, 2010 Adam ('11) & Promise ('11) DeBilzan Krista Kreifel, 2011 Melissa McLaughlin, 2011 Wilbert Williams, 2011 Caroline Gathright, 2012 Stephanie Holdsworth, 2012 Robert Williamson, 2012 Amanda Drier, 2013 Seph Fauver, 2013 Devon Roesener, 2013

Jake Schaben, 2013 Paul Schlorholtz, 2013 Justin Schomerus, 2013 Jeremy Crump, 2014 Brooke Earnest, 2014 Travis Enlow, 2014 Margarita Gurrola, 2014 Matthew Novak, 2014 Kristine Vacha, 2014 Joshua West-Lesher, 2014 Susan Witt, 2014 Stephanie Fekkers, 2015 Beau Godwin, 2015 Laura Johns, 2015 Gregory Moran, 2015 Kathleen Robertson, 2015 Todd ('15) & Michelle ('15) Simpson Taylor Dankleff, 2016 Carlene Frenzel, 2017

Friends

David Bierman Cathy Donahoe Karen Krofta Jan Passmore Wayne & Joan Albury Ellen Ambroz Carol Anderson Teresa Anderson Virginia Argabright Darlene Bahensky Aaron Banuelos Sheila Barleen Phyllis Beam Gene Beardslee Patricia Beazley Mark Beischel Carrie Bence Laura Berthelsen Marvin & Evelyn Biere Hilary Bradford Carolyn Bredemeier Roger & Judy Breed Martha Brestel Charles Brewer Grace Brooks Monte Brouillette Blaine Brown Nancy Brown Everett & Laurel Browning Carol Brumfield Eulanda Cade Cindy Cammack Judy Carver Yvonne Chandler Joan Chapin Jane Cheek Jeff Christensen Jim Christensen Donna Cianfichi Anthony Citrin Clinton Clark

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Bill & Linda Clemente Evan Coe* Kristen Cohen Dan Cooper Jack Cooper Diane Cornelius Janna Cornelius Gerald Craig Carol Crook John & Sara Crook Kelly Curry Wayne Davidson Spencer Davis Bob & Kathy Dawson Helen Dixon Daniel Dorszynski Robert Dougherty Joyce Douglas Judy Douglas Ronald & Jan Douglas Timothy Duester Diana Duncan Donna Dunlop Betty Dvorak Karen Dvorak Larry Ebner Thomas Eckley Zachary Ehresman James Elworth Barbara & William Ely Mike Ely Kathy Ensz Duwayne & Jackie Eoff Gail Erickson Michelle Eutsler Lisa Faaborg Blake Faulkner John Fettig Jeanne Fielder Richard Flynn Pat Fortney Carolyn Foster Joyce Foster Susan & Scott Fritz Ken & Donna Frohlich Jerry & Shirley Gallentine Barbara George Fred Gfeller JoAnn Goethe Glade Goings Juanita Goings Gary Goldfish Stacey Golding Alcides Gomez Terry Gorecki Martha Graves Reese Susanne Guyette Colleen Haack Kathleen Hahn Donna Hamilton Jack & Ronda Hamilton

Colene Hance Judi Haney Dan & Elaine Hanson De Ann Hanson Sally Hanson Ardys Hansum Elaine Harvey Karen Hasch Lavern Hauptmann Janet Hawley Pam Heier Ann Hendrickson Sharon Hersemann Paul Hinrichs Joann Hoffman James Horky Betty Horton Marilyn Huetson Jean Husing Coleen Ingerle Judith Ivey Vicki & Tom Jacobitz Samantha Jackson Dean James Jennifer James Lisa Jensen Lisa Jerabek Becca Jewell Judy Johnson Russell Johnson Cristy Joy Richard & Dorothy Joy JoAnn Joy Wullschleger Pat Kavanaugh Elizabeth Kernes Krause Joe Kincaid Eileen Kowalski Judy Kudym James Lambeth Robert Langenhan Lynn Larson Helen Lassen Craig Latscha Rae Lee Jean Lindell Daryl & Peggy Long Mary Lou Long Patricia Longley Trisha Ludemann Randy Lukasiewicz Tracey Lukasiewicz Helen Lundak Paul Lundy Dayla Mamot-Sack Barbara Masters Maurice & Maedean Mathews Sharon Matzke Michael McCann Elaine McClellan Michelle McConnell Sara Mcferrin

Mary McKee Larry & Kay McKinzie Ruth McMaster Raydelle Meehan Maxine Mehus Ned Meier Marie Meland Marshall Meritt Fred Meyer Paul Miller Gary Milstead Amy Mincer Doc & Betty Moller Connie Moody Sheryl Mortimer Margaret Mosley Virgil & Joann Mulligan Maria Munoz Carolyn Murphy Jim & Kathi Nehls Adam & Annie Neveau Kendall Neiman Dan Nielsen Pamela Nielsen Lois Northrup John Nyberg Daryl & Jacqueline Obermeyer Darren & Amy Oestmann Doug Olson Beverly Parrish Neal Parsons Kristin Petersen Cap Peterson Robert Peterson Max Propst Gene & Verta Pugh Mary Quick Erma Rasmussen Francine Rasmussen Father Raybourn & Susan Raybourn Mary Redelfs Don & Linda Reiman Jerry & Linda Renner Kimberly Rerucha Stephanie Retzlaff Leeding Mary Ritchie David Rogers Javier Rosario Jose Rosario Luis Rosario Becky Rose Carol Rosendahl James & Walta Ruff Kyle & Sheri Ryan Barbara Sack Lee Sapp Nancy Savery Paul Scarborough Linda Schacht Jacquelyn Scheer Steve Schneider

Barbara Schultz Douglas Schultz Gregory & Darolyn Seay Charles Seibert Timothy Shada Dennis Sherman Pamela Short Kim Smith Martha & George Smith Joanne & Anthony Sokalsky Deborah Solie Bette Spath M. Forbes Sprague Joe Stehlik Leo Stenka Alyceann Stevenson Elizabeth Stukenholtz Connie Stunkel Ethel Svoboda Darold & Beverly Swanson William Swenson Marlys Swenson-Waller Ken Swinarski Annie Thomas Dennis & Deborah Thomason Dodie Thompson Marjorie Townsend Jennifer True Mike & Kathy Tynon Richard & Wanda Utecht Connie Van Wie Helen Vanderwall Adelene Vock S.R. Vogt Douglas Vyhlidal Fredrick & Susan Wachtler Marilyn Wagner John Walker Linda Warren John Wear Lyman Wear Camellia Weatherly Al Wheeler Eric & Laurie Whipple Rick Whitaker Kendra Wojtalewicz Nancy Wood Susan & Jerry Wurtele Esther Wyant Bev Young Harlan Zentner Pam Zimbelman Bockmann Auto Sales Elev8 Marketing LLC Gary Bader & Sons' Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Jacobs Ford M.M.M. Bridge Club O'Connor & Associates, INC Southeast Nebraska Development District

Acosta Electrical Contractor Aegon Transamerica Foundation Ball Corporation Beta Electric Corp.

Casey's General Store Engles Agency Evans, Lipka & Associates, Inc. F&M Bank FBL Financial Group Inc First National Bank of Johnson First State Bank Nebraska Heartland Nuts 'N More Hospicio Plena Serenidad Humanities Nebraska INSPRO Inc. J & T Distributing J.J. Palmtag Inc Kropp Charitable Foundation Mainstreet Bank Merck Partnership for Giving Nebraska Arts Council Nebraska Community Foundation Nelson Family Foundation, Karl H. & Wealtha H. Peters Funeral Home, Inc. Phi Alpha Theta Reznicek Engineering Inc. Rixstine Trophy The Sunderland Foundation Taco Naco Bar & Grill The Richardson Foundation Troy A Kanter Family Foundation Union Bank & Trust Universal Tire Service Inc

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Look at those Bobcats Go! 1960s Michael “Mike” Harmon (’66) was named to the 2016 class of the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in the Career Coaching category.

1970s Gale Bly (’74) is in his first year as coach the Palmer Boys Basketball team. He has 44 years of coaching experience.

1980s Sheryl Larson (Schultz, ’81) retired as an elementary school teacher in 2017. She is now a student teacher coordinator for the University of Northern Iowa.

Sandra Behrends (Rogge, ’82) received the 2018 Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association Outstanding Elementary Teacher Award. Sandra currently teaches first grade at Johnson-Brock Public School.

Elaine Wood (Cecetka, ’85) was inducted into the Livingston (TX) ISD Apple Corps.

Employees inducted into LISD Apple Corps have exemplified a positive attitude in their workplace and a desire to excel in their department or on their campus.

Steven Dingman (‘86) is in his 28th year at Southern Arkansas University and has served as the department chair of the Health, Kinesiology and Recreation department since 2003. Additionally, he serves as the Director of the Online M.S. in Kinesiology-Coaching degree program. This fall Steven was notified that the Online M.S. in Kinesiology-Coaching program had earned national accreditation, becoming one of only three online master’s programs in North America to receive this accreditation.

Doug Goltz (’86) achieved his 600th win as coach of the boys’ basketball team at Sacred Heart in Falls City on December 16, 2017.

James “Jim” (’86) and Theresa (Polsley, ’85) Krajicek were honored March 3, 2018 with the Spirit of St. Columbkille Award at the St. Comumbkille Church’s annual Columb’s Ceili fundraiser. The Rev. Dave Reeson praised the Krajicek family for its continued service and leadership and example of strength and perseverance.

1990s Julia Harney-Stamps (’92) has been named as a finalist in the Romance Novella category of the 2018 RITA awards. Winners of the awards will be announced Thursday, July 18, 2018.

Margo LaBrie (’92, ’96) was nominated by the Nebraska Coaches Association for the National High School Athletic Coaches Association national coach of the year.

Curt VanLaningham (’96) has a goal of running 50 marathons in 50 states before he turns 50 years old. He has competed in 26 marathons (at the time of the article in November of

26 The Stater Summer 18 Peru Stater.indd 26

2017) and is 43 years old. To add to this goal, he also has to complete each marathon in less than 4 hours.

Heather Layson-McKay (’97) Atlantic (IA) High School Principal was presented the ATHENA Leadership Award by the Atlantic, IA Chamber of Commerce during its January 13, 2018 annual banquet. ATHENA Leadership Award recipients are individuals who: have achieved the highest level of professional excellence; contribute time and energy to improve the quality of life for other in the community; actively assist other, particularly women, in realizing their full leadership potential.

2000s Jill Johnson (‘00) was recognized by the Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals as the 2017 Assistant Principal of the Year. Jill works at Seward High School.

Nikki Hayes (‘04) opened Earth and Owl Yoga Studio and Coffee Bar in Auburn. She obtained her 200 hours certification and plans to continue her training. Nikki also operates Aunt Bea’s Apiary.

Darren Tobey (’05) will be the next superintendent for Broken Bow Public Schools.

Alec Gorynski (‘07) was listed as one of Ten Outstanding Young Omahans for 2017 by the Omaha Jaycees. Presently, Alec is the Vice President of Community Development and Corporate Philanthropy for First National Bank of Omaha and President of the First National Community Development Corporation.

Heather Steiner (‘07), teacher at Schoo Middle School in Lincoln, was named Teacher of the Month, in December 2017. Heather has been teaching since 1995, spending the last eight years at Schoo Middle School.

Sherry Clarkson (Kvasnicka, ’08) is recently married and going on 12 years of working for Nebraska Public Power District in York, which started as an internship at Cooper Nuclear Station while at PSC.

Elaine Karel (’12) is a new staff member for the Tecumseh Chieftain newspaper. Elaine will be working in the area of advertising sales and design.

Tim Oehring (’14, ’16) was one of five teaches chosen from 550 entries to be honored as part of Nebraska Teacher Recognition Day. He was honored with the Thank You Teacher Award in March.

Jamie Aue (‘15) recently launched Aue and Company. Jamie’s company provides accounting and payroll services in collaboration with Peggy Kuser, CPA. Jamie Ascherl (’17) will teach seventh-grade math at McCook Junior High. Prior to this, he has been the seventh and eighth-grade math teacher at Johnson-Brock Public School.

Friends Ken Anderson, Dr. Spencer Davis, and Dr. Dan Holtz were all named to Peru State’s Emeritus Faculty by the Nebraska State College System Board.

Ryan Held, former PSC Head Football Coach, will take on the role running backs coach at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Matt Hill, PSC Assistant Professor of Music was named to the Midlands Business Journal 2017 “40 Under 40”.

Dr. Vincent Monseau, former PSC professor, and his wife, Kathleen “Kay”, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 17, 2017.

Dr. Darolyn Seay, PSC professor, was reappointed by Governor Pete Ricketts to a second term on the Nebraska Professional Practice Commission (NPPC). The Commission has chosen her to be Chair. The goal of NPPC is to develop, promote and enforce standards of professionalism for Nebraska educators.

Deborah Solie, Peru State College Foundation Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Fund, presented on PSC’s sesquicentennial planning at the CASE (Council for Advancement and Support of Education) Conference.

Adam Perry (‘08) spoke to about 50 third-graders at Shell Creek Elementary School in November. Adam, a U.S. Army veteran, has eight years of military service.

Bobcats We Miss

2010s

1930s

Derek Derr (’10) was recently announced as the defensive coordinator for the Wroclaw Panthers Football team in Poland. The Panthers began play in March.

Ruth Boese (Rocke, ’34) of Liberty, MO passed away November 30, 2017. After many years of teaching, Ruth retired in 1981, though her love of teaching never ended. She loved being with family and enjoyed traveling, cards, bingo, shorts and visiting with friends.

Lisa Laun (Sierks, ’11) was promoted to Assistant Vice President of Lending at State Bank of Table Rock, DuBois Branch.

Crystal Richey-Scrivens (’11) was the honored speaker for the Veterans Day program at the Falls City High School on November 10, 2017. Before even graduating from high school, Crystal enlisted in Nebraska City’s National Guard 173 Chemical Unit in 2002.

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Edna Grundman (Bohlken, ’39) of Lincoln passed away on May 9, 2017. After receiving her teaching certificate, she taught in country schools for five years before returning home to help her parents farm. Edna, along with her husband of 57 years, enjoyed dancing, traveling, and playing cards.

1940s Aileen Hargens (Tobiassen, ’40) of Lincoln passed away September 7, 2017.

Patricia Brittain (Rockwell, ’42) of Ventura, CA passed away March 8, 2018.

Rose Mary Fischer (Staack, 43) of Elmwood passed away November 9, 2017.

She worked beside her husband, Francis, on the farm and was a devoted mother. She also enjoyed quilting, playing cards and attending sporting events. Most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jean Hill (Bond, ’44) of Gadsden, AL passed away September 11, 2017. Jean served 44 years in federal service with 37 years of that at Anniston Army Depot as Chief of Position management and classification. She was awarded the highest decoration in AMC, the Civilian Meritorious Service Medal and a tree dedication ceremony. Upon her retirement, Jean taught GED classes.

Ruby Grundman (Ebert, ’45) of rural Talmage passed away on December 23, 2017.

She taught in rural schools for a number of years. Her and her husband of 70 years raised 6 children. She was active in St. John’s Evangelical church (McWilliams), an Otoe county 4-H leader, active member of Syra-Mc-Dels extension club, and band parent president. She will be remembered for her homemade bread, her large garden and canned produce, and her quilts she made for each family member.

Ruth Lienemann (Meister, ’47) of Omaha passed away February 9, 2018. She gave piano lessons, accompanied Papillion choral groups and soloists and the choir at Trinity Lutheran church. Ruth frequently wrote to the World Herald’s Public Pulse, participated in setting Nebraska K-12 school standards, circulated petitions for ballot issues and testified to the Nebraska legislature.

Martha Brinkman (Straube, ’48) of Tecumseh passed away November 19, 2017. Martha enjoyed watching her children perform in music and sports. She liked to bowl, golf and still played cards once a month. Martha and her husband, Don, liked to travel, visiting all 50 states, many Caribbean Islands, and five continents.

1950s Richard Tjersland (’50) of Skagit Valley, WA passed away November 19, 2017. Richard served in the US Navy during the Korean War. He enjoyed his travels to Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Israel, Panama Canal, Hawaii, and Alaska.

Patricia Bornemeier (Benford, ’52) of Greeley, CO passed away October 5, 2017. Patricia was an elementary school teacher for over 30 years and was involved in many teacher organizations over the years. Music and the Greeley Chorale was always a big part of her life.

B Dorothy Farrow (Meister, ’52) of Long Beach, CA passed away on February 5, 2018.

Dorothy taught in rural schools and attended Peru State Teachers College concentrating in music studies. She pursued teaching for many years. Her passion for music was apparent throughout her entire life.

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Gail Godbersen (Gilliland, ’52) of Wayne passed away February 17, 2018. Gail taught and substituted most of her life until retiring from Dodge Public School in 1994. Gail and her husband traveled extensively, visiting every county fairground in Nebraska. She was very proud of her family and enjoyed attending all of her grandchildren’s activities.

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Rosemary Morrill (Kyle, ’52) of Edmond, OK, formerly Tulsa, OK, passed away January 18, 2018. For a short time, Rosemary was an elementary school teacher before staying home to raise and take care of her children.

Music was another important part of her life, as she was a proficient violinist and appreciated beautiful music.

Mary Ann Weber (Smejdir, ’54) of Friend passed away December 17, 2017. In later years, Mary Ann and her husband, Robert, enjoyed short vacation trips to Estes Park, CO every year and attend the Peru College homecoming football games. The also loved going to the Flying V for dances.

Donald L. Balderson (’55) of Elk Grove, CA passed away on June 5, 2017. Don joined the US Marine Corp and served in the Korean War from 1951-1953. In 1960, he began his career teaching in the middle school until his retirement in 1984. Don enjoyed woodworking, fishing, camping and playing cards.

Mary Mullens (Vanderford, ’55) of Beatrice passed away March 10, 2018. Mary’s teaching career spanned over 35 years, touching the lives of thousands of students. She always said teaching was never boring or dull-it was always interesting with new challenges and opportunities and that sometimes she learned things along with her students.

Marilyn Heywood (Tucker, ’58) of Reno, NV passed away September 9, 2017. Marilyn enjoyed working as a teacher and especially enjoyed the time off it gave her in the summers to spend in the garden. Her family would spend time camping and exploring remote, interesting sites in Nevada. Marilyn will be remembered as a funny, generous, religious, intelligent and family-loving person.

Gary Mayfield (’58) of Marquette, KS passed away November 10, 2017. Gary served in the US Navy during the Korean War. After the war, he got his degree and because teaching and coaching. He retired in 1991. Gary was a lifelong Boy Scout; he was honored with a Silver Beaver lifetime achievement award by the Quivira Council of the Boy Scouts of America.

Jack Gibson (’59) of Reeds Spring, MO

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Bobcats We Miss passed away August 10, 2017.

Willadean Kaufman (Spier, ’59) of Lincoln, formerly Tecumseh, passed away January 7, 2018. She worked as a teacher for several years and then retired from teaching to raise her family. Willadean later went back to college and received her LPN degree in nursing.

Jerry Whitney (’59) of Niangua, MO, formerly of Topeka, KS, passed away February 20, 2018. He taught and coached at various schools throughout Kansas and Nebraska.

Jerry was active in Topeka Civitan as well as in several churches in and around Topeka and Springfield, MO. In later years, he was an ardent supporter of and participated with the Greene County Prison Ministry and Gideons International.

1960s Jerry Carlson (’60) of Omaha passed away July 20, 2017. He was a US Navy Veteran and served in the Korean War. After graduating from PSC he began his teaching career as well as coaching high school football in Iowa. He later worked in real estate and sales. Jerry was an avid Husker fan who loved to travel, dance and golf.

to the community. Most recently, Judy had served as a member of the Gage Co. Red Cross Society, Extension Board, and the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Ruth Detert (Stahnke, ’66) of Freeport, IL passed away November 12, 2017. She was an active member at her church and her community in Freeport. Ruth loved her family and friends and hearing about their lives.

William “Andy” Anderson (’67) of Carmel, IN passed away September 16, 2017. He worked in retail sales for Volume Shoe Corporation and later as a senior leasing representative for Simon Property Group for over 20 years.

Larry Nedrow (’68) of Waverly passed away November 30, 2017. Larry was born and raised in Falls City. After graduating from Peru, he went on to obtain a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Billie Brown (’69) of Weeping Water passed away March 17, 2018. Bill served in the US Navy after graduating from high school.

He went on to teach in the Weeping Water Schools for 16 years and worked as a self-employed painter until his retirement.

Barbara Higgins (Hill, ’60) of Tekamah passed away December 28, 2017. Barbara was an accomplished musician who played the clarinet, piano, organ and accordion. She loved to paint and draw. Barbara is best known for her work as the manager of Lundstroms Furniture in Spirit Lake.

Allison “Buck” Dougherty, Jr. (’69) of York passed away on February 28, 2018. Buck worked for Sundstrand Aviation, retiring in 2013. He enjoyed playing softball for the company league and also enjoyed golfing.

Buck liked to travel to see his daughters and spending time with his grandchildren.

Jere Krakow (’60) of Albuquerque, NM passed away on November 3, 2017. His life was devoted to service in the National Park Service, which he joined in 1983. He also served as historian at Ozark National Scenic River Ways, the Denver Service Center, and then as Superintendent of National Historic Trails for the Intermountain Region that administered nine national historic trails and the Route 66 preservation program. Jere had friends throughout the country and rarely met a stranger.

1970s

Betty Teten (Whipple, ’60) of Bridgeport, formerly of Nebraska City, passed away March 2, 2018. Betty worked for many different schools as a teacher and retired in 1993. Betty was a member of the Methodist Faith and enjoyed being with family and friends.

Alyce Green (Roberts, ’61) of Plattsmouth passed away January 4, 2018. Alyce helped many people with remedial reading and GED courses throughout the years. Even in retirement, she was involved in her community, spending hours teaching GED courses at various location including the Cass County Jail.

Judith “Judy” Libal (Shuey, ’63) of Virginia passed away November 22, 2017. Judy loved the banking industry. Her career included many positions and many banks until the fall of 2017. She also had a passion for service

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Bonnie Goodman (’71) of Nebraska City passed away on March 5, 2018. Aside from many years of teaching, Bonnie served on the Morton James Public Library Board and was a member of the Otoe County Historical Society. She enjoyed playing bridge and golf and was an avid reader.

Patricia Sheehan (’73) of Aurora passed away March 4, 2018. Pat taught in the Aurora School District for 37 years before retiring in 2013. She was very active in her church, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, as a member of the Altar Society and the funeral committee. Pat was also a CCD teacher for several years. She especially loved to care for her dog, Grady.

Barry Silverstein (’73) of Gilbert, AZ passed away January 15, 2018. Barry served in the US Air Force, then went on to work for USPS for 25 years. Barry served as the announcer for football, baseball, and basketball at Creighton Prep, as well as Marian High School. In 2013, he was inducted into the Creighton Prep Hall of fame.

Judith “Judy” Schwartz (Donahue, ’79) of Greenfield, IA passed away March 17, 2018.

1980s Judith Dorste (Thompson, ’88) of Auburn passed away December 26, 2016. After graduation from PSC, Judith worked as a

substitute in six different counties in southeast Nebraska, until she passed. Mrs. Dorste was best known as “the candy lady” by her students and teachers. Everyone was always happy to see her. She always said “when it stops being fun, I will retire.” That part never happened; she loved the job and the kids.

1990s Timothy Batterson (’94) of Bloomfield, IA passed away December 10, 2017. Tim served nine years with the US Air Force as an imagery interpreter and computer programmer. As a civilian, he worked as a computer programmer for Principal Financial Group.

Saundra Jodry (Holland, ’98) of Plattsmouth passed away December 21, 2017. Saundra worked for 20 years for the Omaha Public Schools as a Special Educator and was recognized as “Teacher of the Month” in Omaha.

She and her husband, Terry, loved spending time near water and watching sunsets at the lake.

Carmen Ukele (Baumgartner, ’98) of Sabetha, KS passed away November 25, 2017. Carmen was a dedicated, well-loved and respected substitute teacher in the Sabetha school system. Her hospitality and kindness was felt by many and her home was always open to anyone. Carmen’s joyful personality was contagious.

2000s Wade James (’07) of Lincoln passed away February 5, 2018. Wade worked for the City of Lincoln for 21 years. He served in the finance department as a system software integrator. He enjoyed golfing, computers, his dog Max, and game nights with friends.

2010s Justin Haystrand of New Port Richey, FL passed away February 26, 2018. Justin was junior at PSC majoring in kinesiology. After graduation, he had plans to attend grad school to become a chiropractor. Justin had played the past two seasons as a running back on the Bobcat football team.

Alumni Shelley (Berry) Cooper of Nebraska City passed away February 18, 2018. She always extended a helping hand to others and frequently helped with fundraisers around town.

Shelley and her late husband, Gary, were the co-owners of Boo’s Pumpkin Patch for nine years on their farm.

Joyce (Funke) Blumel of Lake Andes, SD passed away January 8, 2018. Joyce worked many years as a bookkeeper. She enjoyed crafts, creating things, crocheting, fishing with her late husband, Bill, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Georgia (Lockard) Duell of Estes Park, CO passed away January 9, 2018. Georgia enjoyed bowling with her husband, Lloyd in a mixed bowling league. She loved watching

her children play sports as well as watching the Colorado Rockies, Denver Nuggets, and Denver Broncos.

Brian Hall of Stella passed away December 7, 2017. Brian retired in 2017 from Cooper Nuclear Station after 40 years of service. He was a member of the Nemaha Volunteer Fire Department and Kirkman’s Cove Golf Club.

Brian was a huge Husker fan and enjoyed sports of all kinds.

Verna (Parriott) Hall of Auburn, formerly Pawnee City, passed away November 10, 2017.

She was a fine pie baker, beautiful seamstress, gracious hostess, enthusiastic traveler, and an avid bridge player. She was a dedicated member of the United Methodist Church in Pawnee City for over 60 years.

Dorothy Huls of Beatrice, formerly of Cortland, passed away January 29, 2018. She was a very active member of Christ Lutheran Church of rural Pickerell, where she spent many years teaching Sunday School and Confirmation classes. She also enjoyed traveling, writing poetry, short stories and family history.

Nina (Andresen) Mathis of Tecumseh passed away November 22, 2017. Nina worked at the Bank of Peru and as a secretary at Peru State College, among other vocations. In her spare time, she enjoyed camping, fishing and reading.

Patricia “Pat” (Dannecker) Parks of Hiawatha, KS passed away January 16, 2018.

After getting her teaching certificate, Pat taught for a few short months. She went to work for the war effort, then met and fell in love with her husband of almost 73 years. Pat gave her best always and expected the same from those around her.

Fern (Kirkendall) Schawang of Falls City passed away January 17, 2018. After teaching in country schools for 13 years, Fern became a farm wife and homemaker. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church at Arago, NE and Catholic Daughters, BPO Does and the Retired Teachers Association.

Friends Clayton Evans of Des Moines, WA passed away December 30, 2017. He worked for the Milwaukee Railroad for 14 years and then the US Postal Service for 17 years. Clayton and his late wife Beulah traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada and parts of Europe. He continued travel and trailer camp well into his 90s.

Beverly (Sherman) Kieler of Peru passed away November 11, 2017. Beverly was a 1957 graduate of Peru Prep. She was a warm and loving woman who was a stranger to no one.

She crocheted afghans for many and made socks for girls.

softball program. His 1996 team was inducted into the Peru State Hall of Fame in 2015. Practicing what he learned on his parent’s tree farm, Mark planted hundreds of trees in his life.

He planted dozens of trees on campus with a particular emphasis on the areas around the softball and baseball fields. Mark also served as a member of the Peru City Council and spent the last 12 years on the Peru Volunteer Fire Department.

Mary Morrissy of Ralston passed away December 15, 2017. Mary and her husband, Willard “Bud”, opened a variety store in Peru in 1952 and owned it for over 15 years.

Through the years she became an accomplished seamstress and put those skills to good use sewing for her daughters as well as for many church projects and fundraisers.

Richard “Red” Reeves of Nebraska City passed away March 19, 2018. Red was a 1960 graduate of Peru High School. He worked at the former Brickyard in Nebraska City and later for the Nebraska City Street Department where he served as Foreman. He then went on to work at Concrete Industries for several years.

Red was also a farmer and livestock producer and did snow removal for various businesses in the Nebraska City area.

Arlene (Demarest) Ritter of Johnson passed away March 6, 2018. After marrying her husband, Herbert “Dick”, she proudly added farm wife to her list of talents as an artist, seamstress, gardener, and cook. Arlene remained active in her church, in her school district and in her community. Over the course of her 107 years of life, Arlene experienced countless, remarkable events.

Dick Stich of Brock passed away January 13, 2018. Dick was a 20-year resident of Peru, serving multiple terms as mayor. He also owned and operated Krazy Dick’s Grocery in Peru and Krazy Dick’s Too in Brownville.

After closing those stores, he worked as an auctioneer for many years before opening Dick Stich Realty in Auburn.

Edna (Allgood) Wheeldon of North Highlands, CA passed away August 29, 2017.

Edna was a stay at home mom who went back to school at age 43 to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse. She worked 12 years before retiring in 1984.

Mary (Applegate) Winingham of Solomon, KS passed away February 20, 2018. Family always came first whether it was her children, siblings or grandchildren. She was a housewife until 1974 when she went to work in the dry cleaning business until she retired in 2003.

Mark Mathews of Peru passed away December 24, 2017. Mark had just begun his 25th season as the head coach of the Peru State

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The Peru Stater

Bobcat Love!

David Kramer (‘69) and Marilyn Sasse were married on June 12, 2017 at St. John Lutheran Church (LCMC) of rural Athol, Kansas. Both David and Marilyn had suffered the death of their previous spouses and are so thankful to God for the love that He has given them for each other.

Marilyn is a long-time member of St. John Lutheran Church of Athol where David has served as pastor since the fall of 2011.

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

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ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Download the PSC Alumni App! ► Search for Peru State College Bobcat Life in the Apple or Android stores to download the app. ► Be sure to allow location and notification settings for the app when installing. ► Click on the tile Create Account followed by Alumni and Friends Registration. ► Create a login. Once created you will remain logged in to the app. ► Enjoy! Use the app to learn about upcoming events, read the Peru Stater and plan your next visit to campus!

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Inside this Peru Stater you’ll find…

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Alumni Photos

Pg. 6

Performing Arts Center Update

Pg. 10

Honoring Coach Mathews

Pg. 14

Commencement 2018 and Distinguished Service Award

Pg. 16

Jerry Joy Locker Room Reaches Goal

Pg. 17

Bobcat Love Stories

Pg. 22

Donor Honor Roll

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The Peru Stater is published twice each year by the Peru State College Foundation. Send your comments, news items and address changes to: The Peru Stater PSC Foundation PO Box 10 Peru, NE 68421-0010 For more information about Peru State College, Nebraska’s first college, visit www.peru.edu or find us on Facebook.

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

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