W2019 Peru Stater

Winter 2019 Vol. 64, No. 1

Alumni Profile: Celebrating the Life of Larry Green (‘71) See story on page 20

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

Building on a Tradition of Excellence – Student Satisfaction Peru State College has a 150-year tradition of transforming student lives through personalized and engaging education experiences. This hallmark of a Peru State education was noted again in recent strategic planning. When students, faculty, staff and alumni were asked, “What are you proud of at Peru State College?” the responses were resounding. Students, faculty, staff and

alumni are most proud of the strong oneon-one relationships that develop between faculty, staff and students.

In a latter part of the evaluation and planning process, Peru State students participated in a national survey on student satisfaction. Using surveys developed by Ruffalo Noel-Levitz, online and on-campus undergraduate students were asked about their experiences at the College. In this national survey, Peru State students report higher satisfaction in every category than both the national average and their Midwest cohort, which typically gives higher ratings than the national cohort.

The survey measured not just a student’s satisfaction with their experience at Peru State but whether the College met or exceeded their expectations. When measuring the differences between satisfaction and expectations, Peru State again exceeded the average results of its national and Midwestern peers.

I was especially pleased that some of the highest ranked categories were consistent with our tradition of a personalized and engaging educational experience, highlighting the pride in personal relationships between students and faculty we heard earlier.

Included in the top five ratings were “Faculty care about me as an individual” and “Campus staff are caring and helpful.” Faculty and staff are committed to the College’s tradition of personalized education, a tradition that continues to benefit our students.

I am glad to share with you that the 150year tradition of transforming student lives endures at Peru State. While the sheer scope of success found by the Ruffalo Noel-Levitz surveys is incredible, the College continues to identify areas for improvement in student service. Our work continues, but so does the amazing efforts of our alumni, donors and friends. I see on campus every day just how the sustained commitment to scholarships and strategic initiatives have been key to

assisting more incoming students navigate higher education and break down barriers to success.

Thank you for your continued support of Peru State College.

In closing, in this issue of the Peru Stater you will read about the passing of Larry J. Green, Chairman of the Peru State College Foundation, former President of Ball Plastics and a 1971 graduate from Peru State. Larry’s leadership and dedication will be greatly missed here at the Campus of 1,000 Oaks. If you are able, I hope you will join us in May for the grand opening of the Performing Arts Center and Commencement where Larry will be honored.

All the Best,

Dan Hanson, Ph.D. President

Students rated their satisfaction with Peru State highly in all areas, including: • Academic Advising • Academic Services • Campus Climate • Campus Life

• Campus Support Services • Concern for the Individual • Institutional Perceptions • Instructional Effectiveness

PSC Foundation Board of Directors SaraBeth Donovan (‘85) Chair - Rapid City, SD Joyce Douglas, Vice Chair – Lincoln, NE Jim Desbien (’73) – Plainville, KS Elton (‘88, ‘16) and Connie (Sims, ‘87) Edmond - Lincoln, NE Mike Guilliatt (’67) – Fremont, NE Cindy (Plantenga, ’82) & Tim (’84) Hoffman, Treasurers – Lincoln, NE Pat Mertens (’86) Secretary – 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 Dan Cotton (’76) – Peru, NE Mark Czapla (‘87) - Unadilla, NE Rich Daly (’68) – Lincoln, NE

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• Instructional Services • Recruitment / Financial Aid • Registration Effectiveness • Responsiveness to Diverse Populations

Elton (’88, ‘16) & 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 Tyler Nutsch (‘13) - La Vista, NE Mark Shively (‘79, ‘93) – Omaha, NE Fritz (’74) & Char (Lutz, ’74) Stehlik – Omaha, NE Kim (’90) & Kris (Kubert, ’94) Vrtiska – Falls City, NE Ivan Wineglass (‘94) - Bellevue, NE College President: Dr. Dan Hanson Editor: R. Todd Simpson (‘15), Chief Executive Officer, PSC Foundation

• Safety and Security • Service Excellence • Student Centeredness • Student Services

Managing Editor/Writer: Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, PSC Foundation Graphic Design: Rebecca Johnson (‘05, ‘18) 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 Neiman Sneed, Marketing Intern

Taking the Long View worker programs and more.

With your help – • More than 280 students received Todd Simpson Foundation scholarships to attend CFRE Peru State College.

Chief Executive • A $7.5 million renovation of the Officer, Peru State College Performing Arts Center was completed.

Foundation • More than 500 prospective students and their families were hosted on campus.

• More than 180 students were employed on campus; allowing them to stay on New Year’s Message from the Peru campus and participate fully in Peru State College Foundation CEO State College activities.

As I reflect on 2018, I am thrilled by I truly believe that Peru State College has the outstanding support of Peru State the best alumni, donors and friends. Thank College alumni, donors and friends. With you for your time, passion and philanthropic your generosity, the Peru State College support.

Foundation was able to commit more than $1 In the New Year, the Foundation is million to the College in scholarship support, identifying additional ways to support the funds for the Performing Arts Center College and faculty, staff and students. renovation, admissions support, student The Peru State College strategic plan

has set aggressive goals to emphasize engagement in the classroom, outreach in southeast Nebraska, increasing prominence of the institution and enhancing oncampus facilities. Your support is needed to reach these goals – whether through your philanthropic generosity or your gifts of time and talent – Peru State College needs your help.

How you can continue to help – Consider a charitable donation. Donate to scholarships, the general fund (a fund that supports programs like admissions and the Peru State College areas of greatest need).

Answer surveys and provide your input during this exciting time.

Participate in alumni events and activities and share your view with the College President.

Consider including a gift in your estate

plan and leaving a legacy at Peru State.

As the Foundation staff looks ahead to another successful year, we are privileged to work with Peru State College during this exciting time. Our goal is to increase Foundation support to Peru State College and increase engagement with alumni and friends. I look forward to partnering with each of you as we work to reach these goals.

Finally, on a somber note, this issue of the Peru Stater includes a farewell to long-time Foundation Board member and Chairman Larry Green. Larry’s influence on the Foundation was significant, and his “focus on what matters” approach helped move projects like the Performing Arts Center from imagination to reality. His passing is a loss for us all.

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 year will be packed with fun events for the whole family.

Learn more at foundation.peru.edu and click on EVENTS. February 28: Cat in the Hat Statue Dedication March 23: Tucson, AZ Alumni and Friends Gathering March 24: Royals at Rangers Spring Training Game in Phoenix, Arizona April 2: Distinguished Speaker Series on Peru State’s campus: Megan Phelps-Roper April 4: Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence Awards Celebration April 7: Peru State College Volleyball Alumni Quads & Social April 20: Bobcat Football Blue and White Scrimmage April 27: Baseball Reunion and Community Picnic April 29: Peru State College Faculty and Staff Appreciation Luncheon May 3: Performing Arts Center Ceremonial Grand Opening May 4: Peru State College Commencement June 6: Omaha Alumni and Friends Celebration Additional important dates: Homecoming – September 27 and 28 Peru State College Giving Day – October 24 Athletic Hall of Fame – October 25

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Peru State Today... Year in revie

Alumni celebrating milestone reunions gathered at the President’s House prior to the All-College Dinner during Homecoming. Pictured L to R: Jason Wunderlich, Christina (Wusk) Wunderlich (’08), Sherry (Kvasnicka) Clarkson (’08) and Brandon Clarkson.

Softball alumnae water a magnolia tree planted in memory of Coach Mark Mathews.

The All-College Dinner during Homecoming hosted alumni and friends. Pictured L to R: Betty (Neil) Barrett (’57), Dr. Clyde Barrett (’56), Arlene (Borcher) Fell (’67) and Paul Fell (’67).

Current men’s basketball players join alumnus Ivan Wineglass (’94), Becca Jewell, Foundation, and President and First Lady Hanson for a night of fun and networking in Omaha.

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Nettie Sikyta (’94) and her daughter Athia Sikyta (soon-to-be-PSC alumna) attend the Lincoln alumni and friends gathering.

ew

Peru State alumni gather in Kansas City for a tailgate and Royals baseball game.

President and First Lady Hanson pose with Lincoln Alumni and Friends guest speaker Je’Kerra Hopper (‘18) and her father.

Women’s basketball team participates in 2018 Homecoming parade.

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Homecoming 2018: Roadtrip Thousands of alumni traveled to Peru State College’s campus for the 2018 Homecoming festivities.

“Alumni, students and friends showed their Peru State spirit during Homecoming this year,” said Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. “The weather forced many activities indoors, but it didn’t dim the smiles or excitement of everyone in attendance.”

Due to rain and cooler temperatures, the annual outdoor tailgate was held inside the Al Wheeler Activity Center. Activities included face painting, balloon artistry, a spirit table to make your own Bobcat gear, the Cat Cave featured new apparel and the jazz band played music to fit the spirited mood.

Homecoming featured a variety of activities including a building decorating contest amongst faculty and staff, the selection of Homecoming Court and the King and Queen, honoring of members of the 1867 Society, and a celebration of milestone reunions, music majors and Carlos Harrison (’51), Grand Marshal.

Grand Marshal:

The Peru State College Student Senate selected Carlos Harrison (’51) of Shenandoah, Iowa, as the Grand Marshal of the Homecoming Parade held on October 6. Harrison is a 1951 graduate and longtime supporter of Peru State College.

“I’m very, very honored and thrilled to have served as the Grand Marshal for Peru State College Homecoming,” said Harrison.

“Peru State means a great deal to me and I’ve enjoyed volunteering and being a part of the College throughout the years.”

Harrison started attending Peru State College in 1949 and was involved in chorus, band and was a member of the Music Educators Conference, now known as the National Association

for Music Education. Graduating in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science in Education, Harrison went on to obtain a master’s degree in education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

He then served in the U.S. Army for two years, before eventually taking a position with Air Products and Chemicals Inc. and moving to California where he spent the next 39 years in the airline industry.

Even while living in California, Harrison maintained his connection to Peru State through multiple organizations, including the Northern California Alumni chapter, where he served twice as president, and the Southern California PSC Alumni chapter, where he served once as president.

In 2000, Harrison retired from United Airlines and returned home to Shenandoah to be near family and friends once more. However, he still travels extensively throughout the United States, taking five to seven trips per year.

Harrison never forgets his Peru State roots. He’s established not just the Walter and Lillian Harrison scholarship in memory of his parents, but also the C. Carlos Harrison alumni fund to create a usable, effective alumni house and assist with alumni activities.

Harrison has assisted with calling legislators and constituents to raise awareness of Peru State College and assisted the Foundation work, with other alumni, to keep Peru State in Peru when there was once the possibility of moving to Nebraska City.

Harrison is also a member of the Peru State 1867 Society and the PSC National Alumni Association Board of Directors. He regularly volunteers to help with Freshman Moving Day, alumni activities such as the Chili Feed, Homecoming and student projects like the Phi Alpha Theta Oral History Documentary.

Alumni and friends celebrating reunions from the classes of 1968, 1978, 1988, 1998 and 2008 gathered throughout Homecoming weekend.

Carlos Harrison (’51) served as the 2018 Homecoming Grand Marshal and led the Homecoming parade.

Homecoming Grand Marshal Carlos Harrison (’51) poses with his nephew Bill Annan at the Homecoming tailgate party.

The Homecoming Court was presented on the Oak Bowl field during halftime with President and First Lady Dan and Elaine Hanson. Emily Whipple and Dan Boshart were crowned Queen and King of the 2018 homecoming court.

Children and adults waited for their face to be painted during the Homecoming tailgate and party.

The Homecoming Parade featured many entries including the band, local residents, cheerleaders and the Bender family dressed as dinosaurs’ road tripping to Peru State.

President and First Lady Dan and Elaine Hanson were inducted into the 1867 Society ensuring students have a sound education and a way to a better life. Joyce Douglas, PSC Foundation Board Secretary, presents them with a gift.

Music reunion attendees sang the National Anthem prior to the Homecoming football game with members of the Peru State chorale led by assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, Matt Hill.

Alumni and friends gathered during Homecoming to celebrate the 1867 Society and their membership. The 1867 Society was created to enable Peru State alumni and friends to give back to the College through their estate plans.

Performing Arts Center Update Performing Arts Center Rescheduled to May 3 Mark your calendars and plan to spend spring in Peru. The Performing Arts Center grand opening was postponed due to weather and construction delays and will now be held on May 3.

“We wanted to celebrate this facility when we could enjoy the splendor of the entire completed project,” said Dan Hanson, Peru State College president. “By moving the grand opening to May we ensure the completion of all aspects of the project and combine this great event with Commencement – allowing faculty, staff, alumni and parents of our graduating students to participate.”

The Performing Arts Center grand opening will include tours of the newly renovated facility, performances

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showcasing the acoustics and space and a reception celebrating donor support.

Those who purchased paving stones in the Sesquicentennial plaza will have an opportunity to view their engravings as part of the reception activities.

“Support from alumni and donors were an important and necessary component of the Performing Arts Center renovation,” said Todd Simpson, CEO, PSC Foundation.

“Without their support, we wouldn’t have this beautiful facility.”

Invitations by email and mail will be sent out with additional information by early March.

Contact the Peru State College Foundation with questions, (402) 872-2304.

Alumni Profiles

Faith Nelson (’15)

Jimmy Johnson (’18)

Jimmy Johnson (’18) graduated from Peru State College with a degree in Music Marketing. After graduation his goal was to pursue work as a sound technician and to work in a recording studio.

During his time on Peru State’s campus, Johnson served as the light and sound technician for a variety of theater productions, concerts and events.

“Peru gave me the opportunity to run lights and sound for the College which opened my eyes to a passion I didn’t even know I had,” said Johnson.

Following graduation, Johnson is working at Best Buy and interning at Fusion Recording studio in Lincoln, NE along with serving as the sound director at the Brownville Concert Hall in Brownville, NE. Favorite PSC memory: So many favorite memories, but if I had to choose, it would be all the trips I took with show choir and jazz band.

Faculty member with greatest impact: Dr. Kyle Ryan was a huge impact on me with my health and perseverance to push through road blocks in life (even if he didn’t know it).

Karen (Coover) Gay (’84)

Karen (Coover) Gay (’84) graduated from Peru State College with a degree in Speech and Theatre. Following graduation, Karen spent much of her 30-year career in roles ranging from Marketing Director to Box Office Manager, Usher to Props Master, Musician and Music Director, Company Manager and Site Manager.

“I credit my career to the teaching of Dr. Royal Eckert,” said Karen. “He had many connections to theater in Omaha and beyond, and served as the set designer for the first play where Jane Fonda appeared with her father Henry Fonda. He brought that experience to the classroom and taught us to be ready to tackle any job in the theater.”

Karen worked for Cirque de Soleil for

Faith Nelson (’15) graduated from Peru State College with a degree in Music Marketing. Following graduation Faith moved to Branson, MO to put her music marketing degree to work in the vibrant music community.

“I am now the Executive Assistant and Group Sales Manager for two shows in Branson, The Bretts Show and Prince Ivan. I do sales, marketing, accounting and anything else that is needed to make the show run.”

Faith moved to Missouri directly following graduation and has worked with many talented musicians. She credits her success with her time at Peru State.

“Peru’s small classroom provided opportunities for professors to get to know you individually and tailor projects to meet your needs,” said Faith. “I was able to study the music industry and do projects that involved marketing music in different areas of the industry.”

Favorite PSC memory: My favorite memories of Peru involve show choir. Rehearsals were always filled with laughter, performances were rewarding, and the choir became my family.

Faculty member with greatest impact: Dr. Jake Bartlett had a huge impact on me. He always challenged me and encouraged me to test my limits and become my best.

16 years, eventually serving as the Global Citizenship Director. She was a member of Cirque’s Senior Management group and was responsible for implementing Cirque’s public, social and cultural affairs policies and programs in the United States.

Faculty member with greatest impact: Dr. Royal Eckert was a professional and personal mentor to me during my time at Peru State

College and after I graduated. I credit him with much of my success.

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

Peru State Foundation Would like to Thank these Supporters of the Performing Arts Center Advocate Van Allen Ken & Jean Anderson Mildred Appleoff Loren & Elsie Argabright Roland Barrett Paul Bodtke Thomas & Leta Bosworth Betty Brackhahn Hilary Bradford David Bremer Harry Bryant Kevin & Karen Caverzagie Yvonne Chandler Rhonda Chomos Darrell Christensen Larry Cotton Denise Daake Donna Damme Spencer Davis Linda Dickeson Ruth Dietrich Janet Dingman Jack Dodge Dorothy Duerfeldt Ben & Carol Duerfeldt Barbara Easley Rudolph Eichenberger Ralph Etter Gertrude Ettleman Jean Everhart

Glaura Falk Mary Findeis Joan Fink Kay Fish Jayne Fredrickson Russ Freitag Carlene Frenzel Alicia Fricke Fred Gfeller Terry & Carolyn Glathar Janice Godinez David & Linda Gomon Virginia Good Ilene Good Judy Gravell De Ann Hanson Don Hardekopf Patsy Harpster Margaret Harrold John & Nancy (Green) Hawley Robert Heng Carol Henning Sharon Hersemann Sandra Hilding Phyllis Hoffman Patricia Holmes Max & Janice Hosier Lonnie & Nancy Houchin Christy Hutchison Jeffrey Jacob

Vicki & Tom Jacobitz Mary Ellen (Green) Jennings Laura Johns Stanley Johnson Mary Kellogg William Kerins Julia Kern Janet Kirkendall Sharylin Knock David Koll Joseph Kotnik JoAnn Krause Dick Kunde Calvin Kunze Deborah Larson Sheryl Larson Richard Linder Stanley & Gay Longfellow Randy Luther Carol Martin Darlene McCord Lois McMullen Ray & Myrna Meister Gary & Stephanie Mercer Ronald & Susan Meyer Virginia Meyerkorth Roger Michaelis Lee & Mary Miller Haney & Karen Milstead Pamela Mitchell

Jack Moles Richard & Romona Moore Janet Moore Maxine Moore In memory Robert D. Moore Janet Mortimore Nancy Nealon Craig Neddenriep Donna Nenneman Ruth Nixon Edith Norris Sharon Ocker Russell & Stephanie Olsen Lisa Osborne Jerry Payne Nelda Peterson William Peterson Charles & Vickie Pickering Lois Pietzyk Gordon Pilmore Wayne & Gloria Pressnall Lonn & Mary Pressnall Joseph Primm Harold Rasplicka Marjorie Rider Elaine Roberts Dennis Robertson Michael Roddy Marvene Rogers Darlon Rohlff Donald & Ardith Rut

Russell Ruth David Sackles Ralph Schawang Kevin Schlange Wanda Schmidt Ronald Schulte Beverly Schwab Mary Scott Marjorie Scribner Curtis & Mary Sederburg James Selk Dennis Sherman Chuck Shores Carolyn Sipes Janice Smith Richard & Margaret Smith Jeff & Robin Smith Dianne Springer Jack Stanley Joe Stehlik Dave & Kim Stemper Michael & Danni Stoddard Gaylin & Carol Sudik William Swenson In honor of Bert Swenson Larry & Ramona Swett Gayle Swisegood Brenda Teleen Dean Teten Jean Thayer

Diane E. (Coover) Thomas Marilyn Van Groningen Tracy VanDyke Sara Veigel Barbara Vogel Shirley Wach Don Wagner Richard & Ann Watson John Wear Donald Wendt Shirley Wenzel Carol Whitcomb Fran Whited Dennis Williams Robert Williamson Dorothy Willis Karen D. Wolken Russel Workman Alexander Zambrano Champions Stacy & Barb Applegate Dr. Bob & Mary (Riley Bohlken Tim Borchers & Susanne Williams Evan Coe In memory of Rose Marie (Pfeifer) Coe Nadine I. (Knople) Danielson-Cusack SaraBeth Donovan

Jesse & Kim Dorman Elton & Connie (Sims) Edmond Paul & Arlene Fell Dr. Richard B. Flynn Ilma (Gobber) Gottula Mary Jane Green Jay & Michel Grotrian Sheri Grotrian Mike & Jan (Remmers) Guilliatt Dr. Daniel & Elaine Hanson Carlos Harrison Tammie Hart The Lyle McKercher Family Dean & Marilynn Meisinger Butch & Barbara (Lasko) Miller Gene & Rita (Green) Neddenriep In memory of Senator Wiley & Maxine Remmers Jean & Dick Rottman Lloyd & Betty (Painter) Russo Dr. Bill & Janice Schulte Michelle & Todd Simpson Al & Kristin Urwin In memory of Adam Urwin

Dr. Al Wheeler Jr. In memory of Alan Glen Wheeler Danny & Debbie White Directors In memory of Dr. Royal Eckert Karen (Coover) & Stephen Gay Mary Lu (Hicks) McCoy Pat & Cathy Mertens Omaha Alumni Association Bill & Shirley Snyder Patrons Garth & Gloria (Bean) Adams Tim & Cindy Hoffman Mainstreet Bank The Sunderland Foundation Eldon Teten In memory of Betty (Whipple) Teten Benefactors Larry & Sue Green Judy (Green) & Charles Grotrian C.W. “Butch” & Dobey (Falter) Haws

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Bobcat Athletics Bobcat Cross Country

The 2018 cross country team was one of the largest in Peru State’s history as there were 13 runners participating. Junior Julia Zurek (Louisville) led the team in every race in which she competed. Four individuals earned Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition at the end of the season. Always a highlight, the team also hosted its “Nebraska’s Toughest Mile” which drew over 60 runners in late October.

Bobcat Football

The 2018 version of the Bobcat football season came to a disappointing close with a 41-23 loss at Benedictine. Peru State finished its year with a 3-8 overall mark and a 1-4 mark in the Heart of America Athletic Conference North Division. Seven Bobcats received all-conference recognition at the end of the season while five players will be named Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes. The team dedicated its season to Justin Haystrand, a teammate who was killed in a car accident in February. On Senior Day, Haystrand’s heart recipient, Chris Jones, was in attendance and presented all team members with a special coin memorializing Justin and his heart transplant.

Bobcat Volleyball

The Peru State volleyball team finished with a 12-21 overall mark and an 8-10 record in the Heart of America Athletic Conference North Division. In the North, the Bobcats finished as the third seed and eventually fell in the conference’s postseason quarterfinals. Three players earned all-conference recognition while seven were named as Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes.

Save the Date

Athletic Hall of Fame Induction

October 25-26, 2019 10 The Stater

Profile: Wayne Albury, Peru State College Athletic Director Wayne Albury was named the athletic director for Peru State College in July 2018.

In his role, Albury oversees nine NAIA Division I sports, coaches and studentathletes.

“Peru State College and athletics both have tremendous administration, faculty and staff,” said Wayne. “I am very excited about working with them and anxious to continue building on the solid foundation of Bobcat Athletics.”

Wayne has worked with administrators and athletic directors throughout his professional career and had the opportunity to see all aspects of the position including fundraising, directing athletic activities, managing athletic budgets and serving as a liaison with sports conferences or division administrators.

Dr. Dan Hanson, president of Peru State, said, “Wayne brings a strong commitment to character-driven athletics, a history of success as a coach, effective experience in fundraising, and a commitment to student

Albury presents an award to a student athlete.

athlete success.”

Wayne’s philosophy is student-centered and focused on academics.

“Student success is important on and off the field,” said Wayne. “During the past few months, one of the things I’m proudest of is our Champions of Character event held this past October. We highlighted the importance of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership” Wayne’s goals include improving on the Champions of Character achievements and achieving even more.

“I believe you can have character, be a good citizen and be champions on the field,” said Wayne.

Over the next 6-12 months, Wayne plans to listen and learn from his coaches, fellow administrators and the students. Starting next year he will also oversee the addition of four junior varsity programs, which will help Peru State College grow enrollment through athletics.

“This is an exciting time for athletics at

Peru State College,” said Wayne. “With the addition of new programs and the approval of a new indoor practice facility for all sports, we continue to see growth and investment in athletics.”

Professional History

Wayne is Peru State’s coach with the most wins and has more than 700 career wins in baseball. He returned as head coach of the baseball team in 2016.

Previously Wayne served as head baseball coach at Peru State from 2011 to 2015. His other collegiate coaching experience includes Lambuth University, University of Rio Grande (Ohio), Union College (Kentucky), and Pikeville College (Kentucky). He also managed the Portsmouth (Ohio) Explorers in the independent Frontier League.

Wayne holds a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Union College and a master’s in health, physical education and recreation from Morehead State University (Kentucky).

Albury and his team pictured after his 700th career win.

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Foundation Giving Update Dr. Sara Crook: Planning Ahead to Leave a Legacy

A few years ago, Dr. Sara Crook, Professor of History, and her husband John, went through a process to formalize and complete their estate plan. At the time, Sara said, “We clarified for ourselves the legacies we wanted to leave for the entities that are important to us. For us, that included Peru State College.”

Sara Crook has been a faculty member in the Social Sciences Department for nearly 35 years. Her areas of expertise include the U.S. Congress and Nebraska politics.

For many years, she has led tours for students and others Dr. Sara Crook, Professor of History to historic sites in Nebraska and throughout the country.

For Sara, sharing her love of history – and of Nebraska history in particular – has been her passion as well as her profession.

As Sara and John were completing their estate planning process, Sara approached the Peru State College Foundation with a question: Could she determine how her future estate gift would be used before the gift arrives at the Foundation?

The answer was a firm “Yes.” Sara and Foundation staff created an agreement outlining the Dr. Sara B. Crook Endowed Fund for Nebraska History. This endowed fund, to be funded at some point in the future, will provide financial support for the Social Sciences Department to conduct activities that support the study and teaching of Nebraska history at Peru State College.

It will provide support for activities such as bringing speakers to campus, field trips for students in the History of Nebraska class and other things that promote the teaching and learning of Nebraska history.

If you are considering including Peru State in your will, or as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement account, and would like to explore your options for supporting a specific area of study or campus activity, please contact the Peru State College Foundation at (402) 872-2304 or pscfoundation@peru.edu to discuss your interests.

By planning ahead, you can leave a permanent legacy at Peru State College.

AD Albury and a member of the Bobcat Baseball team deliver canned goods to a food bank in Auburn, NE.

Save-the-Date: Peru State Giving Day October 24, 2019

For 24 hours on October 24, all Bobcats are invited to GIVE BACK to Peru State College. This is a day dedicated to Peru State College philanthropy, volunteerism and history.

How you can help: • Donate and support Peru State College on October 24 – help the College reach their fundraising goal!

• Sign up to be a social media ambassador!

• Volunteer in your community or on-campus and promote the Bobcats!

Dr. Sara Crook, Dr. Kathi Nehls, Arlene (Borcher) Fell (‘67), Paul Fell (‘67) and Dr. Paul Hinrichs at an alumni event.

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

Share Your Story with Current Peru State Students

Two weeks in spring and two weeks in fall, current Peru State College students call to hear the stories of alumni and friends and share updates on the College.

“My favorite part of working the Phonathon was speaking to alumni and friends, and learning about their experiences on campus,” said Valyn Sterns, current student and past Phonathon caller. “It’s awesome to know that Peru State alumni and friends are passionate about the College.”

Current students from the Schools of Education, Arts and Sciences, and Professional Studies are hired each semester to share current College happenings, ask for updated contact information to ensure alumni receive event invitations and the Peru Stater, and ask for philanthropic support to help students on campus now and in the future.

“The Phonathon program is an important way we stay in touch with the Bobcat family,” said Todd Simpson, PSC Foundation CEO. “The money raised during Phonathon is spent on things important to students like scholarships and supporting student activities.”

Alumni and friends are invited to pick up the phone and enjoy a conversation with these talented students.

Pick up the phone and speak with a Peru State student this March!

Spring Phonathon is scheduled to kick off March 16.

Students spend time connecting with alumni and friends of the college while updating alumni information, and soliciting support for scholarships and development during the annual Phonathon.

IRA Gift Means “The help is always there if you need it” Senior Myles Hicks has enjoyed three great years as a student at Peru State. After attending another school for one year, he transferred to Peru State following the recommendation of a friend back home in Independence, Missouri.

Hicks has played football for the Bobcat’s defensive line for three years. This year, as a senior, he was elected by his teammates as a team captain. He been happy with his decision to transfer. “I like that the teachers and everybody are always available when you need them. The help is always there if you need it.”

This year, Myles got some unexpected help, thanks to a new endowed scholarship fund established by alumni Paul and Arlene (Borcher) Fell.

Paul and Arlene Fell met on campus as students and graduated in 1967. They both became teachers, including spending time as faculty members at Peru State. They both have had successful careers as small-business owners. Paul Fell is a syndicated cartoonist.

Arlene Fell owned and operated an alterations business. Together, they have co-chaired the National Alumni Association and have remained loyal Bobcats since graduation.

Recently, the Fells became interested in establishing an endowed scholarship. For Paul and Arlene, it made financial sense to establish the scholarship by making a direct contribution of money held in their Individual Retirement Accounts. By making a contribution from their IRA to the Peru State College Foundation, they were able to avoid paying income tax and increasing their adjusted gross income. The gift also counted toward the annual mandatory minimum distribution requirement. Most importantly, they created a scholarship that will support students likes Myles in perpetuity.

What lies ahead for Myles Hicks? He will graduate in May with a degree in Criminal Justice. He looks forward to pursuing a career in juvenile probation because he is fascinated by the law and the legal system, and he likes working with kids.

Hicks has benefited from the best Peru State has to offer: caring faculty and staff, coaches with character and commitment, and generous alumni who are paying it forward and making the dream of a college education just a little bit easier to manage.

For information on how you can make a contribution from an Individual Retirement Account or to inquire about the Foundation’s scholarship program, please contact the Peru State College Foundation, 402-872-2304 or via email at pscfoundation@ peru.edu.

Bobcat Alums Arlene (Borcher) Fell (‘67), Paul Fell (‘67)

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Leave Your Mark on Peru State College’s Campus for Generations to Come Many Peru State alumni and friends have chosen to leave their mark on Peru State College’s campus through the Sesquicentennial Plaza engraved paving stones.

“This was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate what Peru State College has meant to our family,” said Danny Hayes (’02). “Many members of our family have attended classes, games and events at PSC. The College is an important part of our lives and now we will be a permanent part of campus.”

Two sizes of paving stones will be engraved starting in February and March of 2019 (weather dependent) located in the Sesquicentennial Plaza directly south of the newly renovated Performing Arts Center.

“Donations to the Sesquicentennial Plaza Program and engraving a paving stone go to support Peru State College students,” said Todd Simpson, CEO, PSC Foundation. “Investing in Peru State College through this fund allows you to truly make a difference and offer students opportunities they may not otherwise afford.”

Learn more about the paving stone and donation options below:

Paving Stone Information: 12”x12” - $1,000 5 lines with 15 characters/spaces/punctuation at 1″ font 6”x12” 3 lines with 15 characters/spaces/punctuation at 1″ font Donation Options: 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.

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 b. $250 in year 1 and $250 in year 2 for 6”x12” paving stones 3. Monthly giving over 24 months (amount determined based on donation – for example a 6”x12” would be $20.83 per month).

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

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

Daryl and Peggy Long Inspire New Gifts through Matching Challenge Long-time faculty member Daryl Long and his wife Peggy are deeply committed to supporting Peru State College. This year, in celebration of Daryl’s 50-year teaching career, he and Peggy offered a special challenge to the Peru State community. Daryl and Peggy have made a gift of $50,000 to the Peru State College Foundation. They will contribute an additional $50,000 if alumni and friends of the College match that with gifts totaling $50,000.

In case it’s been awhile since you have been in a math class, that adds Daryl and Peggy Long at Daryl’s retirement up to $150,000, another number celebration in April, 2017. the Campus of a Thousand Oaks has been celebrating recently.

Daryl and Peggy hoped to encourage new donors to join them in supporting Peru State College, so the matching gift opportunity was initially offered to first-time donors who have

14 The Stater

not made a gift to the Foundation in previous years.

Throughout the year, the matching opportunity was gradually expanded to also include people who had not made a gift for a period of years, and then to people to have given in previous years, but had not yet made a contribution in this current year.

So far, the results have been very exciting. Many people have responded with great enthusiasm. One donor said he was among Dr. Long’s first students, and he just could not pass up the offer to “get some of Dr. Long’s money.”

The matching opportunity has inspired more than 240 people to make their first gifts to the Foundation.

To date, because of the wonderful support of the Bobcat family, $25,000 has been raised through this special matching opportunity.

Through the original contribution plus the matching fund of $50,000, Daryl and Peggy are establishing the Bicentennial Fund. This endowed fund will be invested today to provide support to the College beginning with the College’s Bicentennial. The Long Bicentennial Fund is planting seeds for a bright and successful future for Peru State College.

Stay tuned to future issues of the Peru Stater to follow the Long Bicentennial Fund as it grows and flourishes through the magic of compound interest!

State and International Award-Winning Peru State College History Book

Jason Hogue, Director of Marketing at Peru State, accepts the award.

Peru State College’s history book, Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future since 1867, has been honored multiple times since its publication in 2017 – both at the Nebraska state level and internationally.

“These awards are a tribute to the rich history of Peru State College,” said author, Dan Sullivan.

Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future since 1867 was recently honored by the Nebraska Center for the Book for best cover/design and illustration. The book was created in collaboration with the Omaha World Herald, author Dan Sullivan and designer, Christine Zueck-Watkins.

According to the Nebraska Center for the Book, their stated purpose is to “bring together the state’s readers, writers, booksellers, librarians, publishers, printers, educators, and scholars to build the community of the book, supporting programs to celebrate and stimulate public interest in books, reading, and the written word.”

Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future since 1867 was also selected for national recognition by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE).

“CASE is the preeminent association for higher education foundations and alumni programs in the world,” said Todd Simpson, CEO of the Peru State

Peru State College 150th Anniversary Book Foundation. “Receiving the 2018 Gold Award in the Circle of Excellence in the Institutional Relations Publications Books category from CASE for Peru State’s 150th anniversary history book “Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future since 1867” is a tremendous honor.”

The international awards program honors outstanding work in advancement services, alumni relations, communications, fundraising and marketing at colleges, universities, independent schools and affiliated nonprofits. Peer professionals at schools, colleges and universities as well as professionals from outside of education judged the entries.

Nebraska’s First College: Shaping the Future since 1867 may be purchased through the Peru State College Foundation for $39.95 (+$5.00 shipping).

Learn more and order online at www.peru.edu/ foundation/book.

Order the special edition book, Nebraska's First College: Shaping the Future since 1867 by Dan Sullivan today! Books available for pick up or delivery.

Written by Dan Sullivan of the Omaha World Herald, the book details the founding of Peru State College and its growth over 150 years. Learn more about the book and order yours today at www.peru.edu/foundation/book.

Thank You 2018 Fall Event Sponsors

• More than 420 alumni and friends of Peru State College returned to campus this fall for the Athletic Hall of Fame induction and Homecoming. The Peru State College Foundation would like to recognize the following sponsors who generously supported our 2018 fall alumni events.

• Sponsorships allow us to highlight alumni-owned and

alumni-affiliated businesses and the business community throughout southeast Nebraska.

• If you would like to have information about serving as a sponsor for 2019 events, please contact Becca Jewell at the Peru State College Foundation, (402) 872-2304

Guilliatt & Associates

Financial & Retirement Planning 402-727-4845

Broker/Dealer: Intervest International Equities Corp.

1980 Dominion Way, Suite 202 Colorado Springs, CO 80918 • Ph# 719-592-9299 Member FINRA/SIPC

Jerry & Christina Joy The Stater 15

Bobcat Family Tree: Anderson Family

In this issue of the Peru Stater and in upcoming issues, true blue Bobcat families will be profiled – highlighting their family tree of Peru State attendees and graduates.

Peru State College has made an impact on families for more than 150 years. This series highlights the passion families feel about their Peru State experience and the generations impacted by the College.

The Anderson Family

PICTURED: FROM L TO R – Gary Anderson (’60), Marian (Schmidt) Anderson (’60), Tawny Anderson (’16) and Spencer Anderson (’94)

Gary Anderson (’60) and Marian (Schmidt) Anderson (’60) stopped in the PSC Foundation office and shared their true blue Bobcat story. They met in speech class and found love on Peru State’s campus. They married between their sophomore and junior years. Gary majored in secondary education and Marian majored in elementary education.

After graduation both taught with Gary working 40 years in education with 33 as a principal and Marian teaching for 29 years.

They had four children who all attended higher education with their son Spencer (’94) and granddaughter Tawny (’16) attending Peru State College.

Their extended family also attended Peru State College. Gary’s sister, Eula (Anderson) Nook (’55) and her son, Roger Nook also attended Peru State (Fr. 1975).

“Education was very important to our family,” said Gary. “My parents weren’t able to go on to college, but they encouraged their

Peru State Alumni Notes:

Throughout the year, the PSC Foundation receives notes and updates from alumni. Thank you for keeping the Foundation updated! Many of the updates we receive are located in the back of the magazine (Look at those Bobcats go!, Bobcats we will miss and Bobcat love). But, a few notes fall outside these categories and we would like to share them with readers:

Dave Stoller (’85) encourages everyone to consider a graduate degree from Peru State College. Due to his encouragement, the next Peru Stater will feature an article on PSC graduate programs. In the interim – learn more at www. peru.edu/graduate.

kids to attend. Peru State was the right fit for us.”

Marian’s Aunt Fern (Russell) Schmidt (‘1911) attended Peru State. Also Marian’s cousins graduated from Peru State including Lucille (Christensen) Rawson (‘65) and her husband Keith Rawson (‘65), Wayne Christensen (‘67) and Faye (Christensen) Lessner (‘72) and her husband Bob Lessner (‘73).

“Peru State has been a very special part of our lives,” said Marian. “We continue to come back for activities including the sesquicentennial celebrations.”

Gary and Marian Anderson and their family are a wonderful example of many true, blue Bobcat families. Next issue will highlight profiles of the Sayer family and Bohlken family.

Have a story you’d like to share? Contact the PSC Foundation at pscfoundation@peru.edu or (402) 872-2304.

Janet (Barton) Vermeer (’74) sent a letter telling us of her freshman year living in Delzell Hall. With all of the history shared about Delzell Hall due to the recent renovation, we failed to mention in 1970-1971 Delzell Hall was a women’s residence hall. Janet shared, “I’ll always have fond memories of my freshman year in Delzell Hall, including freshman orientation, wearing beanies and memorizing the Peru State fight song.”

Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence Awards: Showcasing Alumni Success Peru State College has outstanding alumni making a difference in their profession, communities and positively impacting Peru State. To honor these individuals the Peru State College Foundation and the College created the Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence Awards in 2018.

These awards recognize outstanding alumni from the School of Arts and Sciences, Graduate Programs, School of Professional Studies and School of Education, and the inaugural awards will be presented in 2019.

16 The Stater

“We are excited to recognize our alumni and their achievements,” said Dan Hanson, PSC president. “These awards provide an opportunity to engage our outstanding alumni with current students. Peru State students will benefit from interacting with alumni and hearing their success stories.”

The awards will be presented in April 2019 in conjunction with the first Undergraduate Research & Creativity Day. Recipients will be announced via email.

For additional information on the awards and nomination process, visit www.peru.edu/foundation/awards.

From Peru State to the Houston Texans: Jake Mertens (’12) Takes on the NFL Why did you choose PSC? Peru State gave me the opportunity to continue my football career past high school. My two older brothers and dad also played football at Peru State. This allowed me to visit the campus multiple times a year and see its beauty. The community around campus is what makes Peru State special and I experienced this on many Saturday afternoons in the Oak Bowl.

Please describe your current position. Where have you worked previously?

I am currently a Sports Performance Intern for the Houston Texans. My job is to make sure our athletes and coaches have everything they need from a nutrition aspect to perform at the highest level. This includes working with other departments including sports performance and sports medicine to provide a multidisciplinary approach.

Dr. Kyle Ryan and Jake Mertens at a Houston Texans Game

My main responsibility is to support the day-to-day operations of the Performance Nutrition program. This includes anything from managing inventory to researching new items and protocols. I also assist with various others jobs that include menu ideas, nutrition consultations and practice hydration. The fun part about working in sports, especially the NFL, is that it keeps you on your feet and no day is ever the same.

I started my career as a strength and conditioning coach and completed internships at the University of Idaho, University of Washington, and Iowa State University. I was an assistant strength coach at Monmouth University before becoming a graduate assistant strength coach for the University of Akron football team. That is when I fell in love with nutrition and returned home to study at the University of Nebraska. While at UNL, I was a strength and conditioning intern with the men’s basketball team.

Jake Mertens graduated in 2012 with a degree in sports management and exercise science. Currently, he works for the NFL team the Houston Texans and can be seen under the lights on primetime television holding signs and helping on the sidelines. To the right is an interview with Jake about his career path and the impact Peru State College had on him:

My first work in nutrition was during my dietetic internship, which is a requirement to become a registered dietitian. I did rotations in athletics at the University of Oregon and the University of Alabama with their football team. After my dietetic internship, I worked for the Iowa Cubs, the Chicago Cubs Triple-A affiliate and IMG Academy as a Nutrition Coach for their NFL combine and NFL pathway programs. These experiences were amazing!

Overall, I have worked with over a dozen sports including male and female teams.

This variety is one of the main aspects that have allowed me to grow as quickly as I have in my career. There are brilliant people in every field and each student needs to take advantage of today’s technology to connect with potential peers.

What are your career goals?

My goal as of right now is to become a director of sports nutrition for an NFL team.

Football has been a passion of mine since high school and the NFL allows me to work with some of the best athletes in the world.

The world is always changing along with my priorities. Working with the Texans has been my favorite job, so I plan on staying in the NFL for as long as possible.

Preventative health is also a passion of mine with the increased prevalence of chronic disease. Down the line, I would love to own a non-profit and help those living in the inner city focus on their health from a nutrition, exercise, and mental aspect.

How has Peru State helped you with your career path?

Peru State provided me three things: friendships, leadership and determination.

As I mentioned before, the community surrounding Peru State is its best quality. I left the campus with best friends that I will have for my entire life. This includes those that I played football with and a professor.

I was fortunate enough to be named a captain on the football team my senior year.

Leading others is a valuable trait to have especially when dealing with a group of athletes. I now have to do the same with the athletes here in Houston.

The professor I mentioned earlier was Dr. Kyle Ryan. He came in my sophomore year and realized the potential I had but was not utilizing. Kyle pushed me to see that education is not something to take lightly and goals can come true to those that work hard.

One of my favorite sayings is “nobody owes you anything.” Peru State has a lot to offer every student and Kyle made me determined to get the maximum of what the campus provides. I have taken this lesson with me to every job that I have had and believe this determination is what helped me achieve my dream of working in the NFL.

The Stater 17

Hall of Fame Review 2018 Peru State College Athletic Hall of Fame

In September 2018, Peru State College inducted four individuals and one team into the Athletic Hall of Fame. Learn more about these outstanding individuals and team.

Dr. Tom Hallstrom (’49) – Basketball/ Meritorious Service

Dr. Tom Hallstrom demonstrated outstanding athletic ability during his Dr. Tom Hallstrom time at Peru State and is part of the Hall of Fame as a team member for the 1947-48 men’s basketball team. Hallstrom was inducted as an individual member to the Hall of Fame for his contributions to athletics throughout his career as an educator and administrator.

After graduating from Peru State in 1949, Hallstrom taught, coached, supervised and coordinated physical education and athletics for the Omaha Public Schools (OPS) for 30 years. He was considered to have been one of the nation’s early leaders in high school athletic administration.

Hallstrom had major roles in recruiting minority basketball and football officials, was instrumental in implementing high school girl’s gymnastics in Nebraska, and was one of the founders of the national AAU Junior Olympic Track and Field program.

Hallstrom is a member of the Omaha Public Schools Sports Hall of Fame and the Nebraska High School Sports Hall of Fame.

He was very instrumental in moving the Nebraska High School State Track and Field State Championship to Omaha and created the organizational blue print that remains in place today.

Mark Mathews (posthumously) – Coach

The longestserving and most victorious coach in Peru State softball history is Mark Mathews. His 24 seasons as the head Mark Mathews coach produced 584 wins that currently account for more than 70% of the total wins in Bobcat softball history. In addition, at the

18 The Stater

time of his passing, Mathews was 15th on the all-time winningest list of active coaches in the NAIA. Mathews was twice named as the conference coach of the year – in 1996 and in 2006. The 2006 team won the conference regular season and tournament titles – a first for Peru State while participating in the Midlands Collegiate Athletic Conference (MCAC). The only Bobcat softball team to ever make it to the NAIA National Championships was his 1996 team which finished with a 42-23 mark.

Truly an advocate of the student-athlete, 48 of Mathews’ players were named NAIA Scholar-Athletes while others earned NFCA and CoSIDA academic and athletic honors.

In addition, most of his teams earned NAIA or NFCA scholar team status.

Mathews will always be remembered for his love of conservation and for planting a tree for each of his seniors.

Kent Propst (’81) – Meritorious Service

Kent Propst served the College as editor of the PSC student newspaper and became Sports Information Director late in Kent Propst his freshman year.

The 1981 graduate returned in 1983 as Director of College Relations and eventually as Vice President of College Relations – positions he held for 20 years.

In his roles, Propst produced countless articles promoting Peru State College and athletics regionally and nationally. In addition to his regular duties, he teamed up with Hall of Fame member Randy Gottula and others as the color commentator for many Bobcat football games and other athletic contests.

Propst was the initial instigator for the Peru State Hall of Fame which started in 1986. He spent countless hours of research to help ensure many individuals and/or teams would eventually be enshrined and properly recognized. His initial planning and work for not only the selection, but the rest of the Hall of Fame activities, are

followed to this day. Propst also served as Executive Director for the Peru State College Foundation.

Brett Richards (’92) – Basketball

A 1992 graduate, Brett Richards, is being inducted into the Peru State Hall of Fame due to his prowess on the basketball court.

Nearly 30 years after he played, Brett Richards Richards is listed in numerous single-season and career record categories. During the 1989-90 season, he attempted 281 three-point field goals and made 125 – both still records for a single season. In addition, he owns the career marks for both categories as he made 260 out of 621 attempts making nearly 42% of his three-point tries – which is second-best all-time.

In other career-record categories, Richards is second in assists with 347, third in scoring with 1,493 points, and seventh in steals with 113.

Richards’ other top single-season marks include: third in points with 663, third in three-point field goal percentage with 44.5%, seventh in assists with 148, eighth in single-season three-point field goals made with 80, tenth in single-season three-point field goal attempts with 201, and 11th in scoring average at 21.4 points per game.

1988-1989 Women’s Basketball Team

The 1988-89 Bobcat women’s basketball team was the first Peru State team to gain state and national attention. Under the direction of Coach Wayne Davidson (a member of the Hall of Fame himself), the

Bobcats matched the College’s most wins in a single season with 23 – a mark which still stands today. In addition, they set a record with 17 consecutive straight home wins.

The team was the NAIA District 11 finalist and had victories over such teams as Kearney State College (now University of Nebraska at Kearney), Chadron State, Wayne State, Doane, Hastings, Midland Lutheran, and many other teams.

Team members Connie Viner and Carrie Menges were both unanimous choices to the 11-member All-District squad Peru State finished as the district runner-up to the Doane Tigers. In addition, four players were recognized as members of the All-District Scholar-Athletes.

The 1988-89 team still holds the highest three-point field goal percentage mark of 38.1% while numerous individuals still hold spots in various top ten career categories.

2019 Nomination Process

• To nominate an individual or team for induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame, please print and complete the nomination form available at pscbobcats.com/ hof. Completed forms and supporting documentation should be submitted to the Peru State College Foundation by email at pscfoundation@ peru.edu or by mail at PO Box 10, Peru, NE 68421.

Nominations for consideration in 2019 should be submitted

by April 1, 2019.

• A committee of alumni make the selections annually each spring. For more information about the Athletic Hall of Fame, contact the Foundation at pscfoundation@peru.edu or (402) 872-2304.

Bobcat Women’s Basketball

After an offseason which was focused heavily on recruiting, the 2018-19 Peru State women’s basketball team is nearly triple the size it was the previous year – both in number and in height! Early in the season, the Bobcats broke a 25-game losing streak and scored the most points in a contest in over two years.

Peru State will be looking to fool many of the teams in the conference which had picked them to finish last in the Heart.

Bobcat Men’s Basketball

Trying to match the outcome of the 2017-18 season, the 2018-19 Bobcat men’s basketball team worked hard in the pre-season and is off to a good start this year. Peru State is looking for a repeat trip to the NAIA DI National Championship. This year’s version of the team features 14 newcomers working with four returners to seek their ultimate goals.

The Stater 19

Celebrating the Life of Peru State Leader: Larry Green (’71) perseverance he learned while traveling with his teammates and Coach McIntire heading to the next basketball game.

“It’s amazing what I learned about life in that old station wagon,” Larry shared.

After college, Larry worked in manufacturing sales and management. He rose through the ranks and in 1980 became the Senior Vice President of Constar International, at the time the largest provider of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic containers in the United States.

In 1994, Larry was recruited by Ball Corporation to serve as President of the Ball Plastic Container Operations, a Fortune 500 company. Under his leadership, Ball entered the market for PET plastic containers and in less than four years, Ball grew its plastic container division from a strategic idea to five manufacturing facilities around the country.

Larry’s longtime friend and co-worker, Al Lepper shared that “(w)hen the going would get tough, and we were around the table trying to drag out just one more dollar of profit (or one less dollar of loss), Larry would say “We need to live to fight another day.” He never ever gave up - never. And he taught us to do the same.” Al worked with Larry for 25 years in Tennessee, Arizona, South Carolina, Texas and finally, Colorado.

FROM L TO R – Larry Green on campus in 2018 and his photo from the 1970 yearbook, his junior year at Peru State.

The name Larry Green is well known in southeast Nebraska and around the world.

He grew up in Brock helping on his family farm, but always knew he would pursue a different path – eventually becoming a leader in the business industry after graduating from Peru State College.

“Larry often expressed his gratitude that education took him from his farming home in southeast Nebraska to a career that took him literally around the world,” said Todd Simpson, Foundation CEO. Larry attended Peru State College in the late 1960s and early 1970s, graduating in 1971 with a degree in business administration. While at Peru State, Larry was a recognizable member of the Bobcat basketball team.

“There aren’t many 6’ 8” guys walking around southeast Nebraska,” Larry used to joke.

Larry often mentioned the many life lessons of leadership, diversity, teamwork and

Upon his retirement in 2011, Larry oversaw an increase in sales for the Ball Plastic Container Operations division from $300 million to more than $3 billion.

“Larry Green was a leader on the world stage for his work at Ball Corporation,” said Dan Hanson, President of Peru State College. “But he never forgot the importance of education and how Peru State College prepared him for success.”

In 2002, Larry joined the Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors. Larry served on the Foundation’s Executive Committee from 2005 to 2008, and again from 2013-2019. In 2015 he was elected Chairman of the Foundation and continued in that role until his death.

As Chairman, Larry led a clarification of the Foundation’s Board and committee roles at the Peru State College focusing on high level direction resulting in an efficient and engaged Board of Directors. His efforts have included establishing or reestablishing the Audit Committee, Investment Committee and Prospect Research Committee as well as reenergizing the Nominating Committee.

“He believed in supporting other students at Peru State with the gift of education and he demonstrated that repeatedly through his leadership on the Foundation Board of Directors and in his contributions to Peru State,” said Todd Simpson.

Peru State Bobcat Basketball team, 1970-71. Green is pictured in the center holding the basketball.

20 The Stater

As an integral part of the Foundation’s efforts for more than 15 years, Larry and his wife, Sue, began the Green Family Scholarship at Peru State (which provides more than $4000 in scholarships each year to deserving students). They were also significant contributors to the campus entrance project and were the lead donors for the theatre/performing arts center project.

In October 2018, Peru State College President Dr. Hanson notified Larry that the Nebraska State College System had awarded him with the Peru State College Distinguished Service Award.

“The Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor Peru State can bestow on an alumnus,” said Dr. Hanson. “Larry is a most deserving recipient. His success in the business world fueled his desire to ensure students have an opportunity to be transformed by education.

His impact on Peru State College will be felt for generations to come.”

Larry was scheduled to be presented with the award in May in conjunction with the College’s 2019 commencement exercises.

On January 5, 2019, Larry J. Green, ‘71, Chairman of Peru State College Foundation, passed away following a private battle with cancer.

Larry is survived by many friends and a loving family including his wife, Sue Green, sister, Dr. Judy Grotrian (‘72 graduate and Professor of Business at Peru State College) and husband, Charles (‘71), sister, Mary Jane Green (‘74), nephew, Jay Grotrian (‘96) and wife Michel, and niece, Dr. Sheri Grotrian (’02 graduate and Professor of Business at Peru State College), and great nephew, Ian. A private service is being planned by the family for the spring.

Donovan Takes the Reins

With the passing of Foundation Chair Larry Green in January, 2019, Vice Chair SaraBeth Donovan has stepped up to again lead the Foundation as Chair.

Donovan has served on the Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors since 2008. She previously served as Chair of the Board from 2011 to 2015, and as Vice Chair from 2015 until February 2019.

“I plan to continue with Larry Green’s vision for the Foundation and his dedication to providing funding for scholarships and educational programs for Peru State College,” Donovan said.

Originally from Lincoln, Nebraska (Northeast HS), Donovan graduated with distinction in 1985 from Peru State, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Education (Mathematics) and a coaching endorsement.

However, Donovan’s relationship with Peru State is deeper than her attendance.

Her grandparents, Glenn and Verda Frary

Foundation Board of Directors: FROM L TO R – Joyce Douglas, other, other (’xx), other (’), other (’xx), Larry Green (‘71), other (’xx), other (’xx), Dr. William Synder, other (’xx), other (’xx),

both graduated from Peru State in 1927. She also has a brother who graduated from Peru State in 1993 and a niece who received her Bobcat degree in 2017. You might call her relationship with Peru State a family affair!

After teaching and coaching for several years, Donovan continued her education receiving a law degree from the University of Nebraska in 1992. She became a trial attorney with the Voting Section, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice, in Washington, D.C. A few years later, she returned to the Heartland, becoming an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Nebraska in Omaha.

From 2001 to 2005, she took a break from the legal profession, developing and implementing a planned giving program for the Peru State College Foundation and later providing full-time care for her recently widowed brother and young niece in California.

In 2006, she returned to the Voting Section in Washington, D.C., becoming a Deputy Chief in 2009. In 2015, Donovan relocated with the U.S. Department of Justice to South Dakota where she continues to serve as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.

In 2013 Donovan was selected to serve as Peru State’s Homecoming Grand Marshall and she gave the commencement address to the graduating class of 2015.

With Donovan’s ascent to the Chair, the Board elected current Secretary Joyce Douglas to serve as Vice Chair and Board member Pat Mertens (’86) to serve as Secretary for the rest of 2019.

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Help Re-Connect the Bobcat Family!

Receiving updated contact information is one of the biggest challenges alumni associations and foundations face. Starting with this issue, the Peru Stater will feature a list of alumni from each decade that the Peru State Foundation and National Alumni Association are missing contact information.

If you know someone on the list, please contact them and ask them to update the PSC Foundation or contact the Foundation directly at pscfoundation@peru.edu or (402) 872-2304. Many alumni don’t realize they are missing issues of the Peru Stater, event invitations and more – help them and help your alma mater to reconnect.

This Issue: Alumni Who Graduated in the 1940s.

Mary Purucker Anderson, Class of 1940 Sylvia Deay Anderson, Class of 1940 Eva Tucker Boyer, Class of 1940 William Boyer, Class of 1940 Edwin Brecht, Class of 1940 Bill Cain, Class of 1940 Dean Crouch, Class of 1940 Frank Dall, Class of 1940 Dorothy Ewin, Class of 1940 Corliss Fowler, Class of 1940 Viola Parret Grunwaldt, Class of 1940 Ruth Schwartz Hain, Class of 1940 Marion Snell Harder, Class of 1940 Mildred West Hilla, Class of 1940 Drucilla Webster Hoover, Class of 1940 Maxine Smallwood Jarden, Class of 1940 Maxine Pershing Johnson, Class of 1940 Carroll Jones, Class of 1940 Felista Handley Killeen, Class of 1940 Neva Frain Kuhr, Class of 1940 Ralph Lyon, Class of 1940 Lena Bouse MacNeill, Class of 1940 Doris Braaf McPheteridge, Class of 1940 Ruth Neil McQuin, Class of 1940 Bernice Wersman Meyer, Class of 1940 Robert Meyer, Class of 1940 Bernice Wensman Myers, Class of 1940 Margaret Hesemann Powell, Class of 1940 Betty Gard Schmidt, Class of 1940 Marie Stych Schuk, Class of 1940 Larue Bausch Seitz, Class of 1940 Jean Jelinek Thompson, Class of 1940 Hope Renz Totsch, Class of 1940 Elda Hamel Vejraska, Class of 1940 W. G. Allgood, Class of 1941 Betty Jones Beatty, Class of 1941 Robert Bland, Class of 1941 Virginia Nelson Bobbette, Class of 1941 Shirley Purcell Bowman, Class of 1941 Elaine Briley, Class of 1941 Tom Christion, Class of 1941 C. L. Cline, Class of 1941 Lucille Coyle, Class of 1941 Buck Dougherty, Class of 1941 Frances Hart Duckworth, Class of 1941 Irma Rawlins Esparza, Class of 1941 Bernice Neddenriep Evans, Class of 1941 Vivianne Sims Frost, Class of 1941 Norris Gerber, Class of 1941 Norma Barnhouse Helms, Class of 1941 Connie Todd Hill, Class of 1941 Virginia McLain Hughes, Class of 1941 Lynn James, Class of 1941

22 The Stater

Robert James, Class of 1941 John Kean, Class of 1941 Alice Trayer Keedy, Class of 1941 Helen Klasek, Class of 1941 Helen Dreunt Kramer, Class of 1941 Helen Rhodes Lovell, Class of 1941 Eva Pedersen Martin, Class of 1941 Neal McCrory, Class of 1941 Carolyn Fleming Mill, Class of 1941 George Norton, Class of 1941 Alveen Gillespie Perry, Class of 1941 Gale Randall, Class of 1941 Florence Craig Schappaugh, Class of 1941 Margy Sczepkowski, Class of 1941 William Shepherd, Class of 1941 Nelson Shimonek, Class of 1941 Alice Druba Sladek, Class of 1941 Dorothy Beckman Spohr, Class of 1941 Margaret Hart Velvick, Class of 1941 Evelyn Christiancy Volf, Class of 1941 Ethel McClune Woosley, Class of 1941 Ruth Clare Wunderlich, Class of 1941 Dewayne Aden, Class of 1942 Helen Wylie Adrian, Class of 1942 Marjorie Moore Baker, Class of 1942 Lorraine Dall Bishop, Class of 1942 Ruth Dodge Cary, Class of 1942 Patricia Waggoner Castro, Class of 1942 Virginia Chamberlain, Class of 1942 Margaret Bryan Clark, Class of 1942 Nedra Shafer Clay, Class of 1942 Merwin Coad, Class of 1942 Lois Fulton Crawford, Class of 1942 Rosemary Stukenholtz Crumbakes, Class of 1942 Peggy Link Daniel, Class of 1942 Janet Reagan Engles, Class of 1942 Frances Bierl Fellingham, Class of 1942 Robert Franson, Class of 1942 Edwin Fruehling, Class of 1942 Darlene West Gerdes, Class of 1942 James Gibbs, Class of 1942 Russell Hobbs, Class of 1942 Lillian Thomas Holmer, Class of 1942 Leo Jones, Class of 1942 Virginia King, Class of 1942 Erna Steffen Knight, Class of 1942 Margaret Mansfield, Class of 1942 Lauretta Toft Mountford, Class of 1942 Catherine Adams Nauroth, Class of 1942 Irma Nispel, Class of 1942 Sophie Antholz Petersen, Class of 1942 Betty Sugden Pittman, Class of 1942 Dorothy Lavigne Rhodes, Class of 1942

Helen Ulrich Schneider, Class of 1942 Alma Shuey, Class of 1942 Theodore Strasburg, Class of 1942 Lucille Mohr Stroh, Class of 1942 Waveta Baker Taylor, Class of 1942 Mary Thomas, Class of 1942 Bette Schneider Tominac, Class of 1942 Edward York, Class of 1942 Edith Harms Akers, Class of 1943 Annetta Bruce, Class of 1943 Madge Williams Butcher, Class of 1943 Mervin Carmen, Class of 1943 Dorothy Carpenter, Class of 1943 Nettie Hanlon Coon, Class of 1943 Margaret Balfour Faris, Class of 1943 Ethel Gross Francis, Class of 1943 Jessie Jones Halbrook, Class of 1943 Lola Woehrle Hanenkamp, Class of 1943 Ruth Kennedy Haney, Class of 1943 Mary Stevenson Hodges, Class of 1943 Anna Rears Kuhlmann, Class of 1943 Ollie Fredrickson Mann, Class of 1943 Richard Monroe, Class of 1943 Howard Morris, Class of 1943 Beulah Owens, Class of 1943 Iola Donley Parker, Class of 1943 Lucille Weber Pengelly, Class of 1943 Jennie Poe, Class of 1943 James “Doc” Sandin, Class of 1943 Mary Drexler Sellenrick, Class of 1943 Mary Hammers Skahill, Class of 1943 Doris Parrish Sporhase, Class of 1943 Mary Hacker Threnn, Class of 1943 Frank Andrews, Class of 1944 James Burkey, Class of 1944 Mary Danoff Ciembar, Class of 1944 Frank Conklin, Class of 1944 Aileen Doeden Eaton, Class of 1944 Opal McFadden Frisbie, Class of 1944 Homer Gould, Class of 1944 William Hancock, Class of 1944 Joseph Hohlfeld, Class of 1944 Leroy Hoover, Class of 1944 Izola Holt Kopf, Class of 1944 Ruth Almquist Kreisa, Class of 1944 L Elaine Foster Leicester, Class of 1944 Lorraine Vandertook Lesoing, Class of 1944 Opal Lisenby, Class of 1944 Elaine Miller Nelson, Class of 1944 Eleanor Biere Parish, Class of 1944 Charlene Bargstadt Patton, Class of 1944 Robert Schweighardt, Class of 1944 Frances Wright Swanson, Class of 1944

Thomas Vernon, Class of 1944 Kathryn Urish Vogler, Class of 1944 Wm Donald Adams, Class of 1945 Leroy Albert, Class of 1945 Doris Weaver Bell, Class of 1945 Robert Bohacek, Class of 1945 Robert Brabant, Class of 1945 Ida Brackney, Class of 1945 Charles Bryant, Class of 1945 Donald Bykerk, Class of 1945 Jack Downum, Class of 1945 Daniel Escritt, Class of 1945 James Fuhrman, Class of 1945 Alice Swenson Giesecke, Class of 1945 Marybell Groff Gleason, Class of 1945 Patricia Garrett Hanson, Class of 1945 L. Dean Jones, Class of 1945 Leslie Kagey, Class of 1945 Harley Mayfield, Class of 1945 Ed McElroy, Class of 1945 Arthur Montagne, Class of 1945 Joyce Snodgrass Moore, Class of 1945 Lois Norton, Class of 1945 Richard O’Brien, Class of 1945 Frederick Owens, Class of 1945 Douglas Peterson, Class of 1945 Erma Messinger Peterson, Class of 1945 William Potter, Class of 1945 Gifford Ruede, Class of 1945 Gunther Schnabl, Class of 1945 Helen Richardson Smith, Class of 1945 Dick Sullivan, Class of 1945 M. Carolyn Snider Tackett, Class of 1945 Bernice Bush Trudo, Class of 1945 Richard Ward, Class of 1945 Lois Duensing Achtemeier, Class of 1946 Lawrence Anderson, Class of 1946 Margaret Faris Anderson, Class of 1946 Dorothy Baldwin, Class of 1946 C. E. Boatman, Class of 1946 O. R. Brewer, Class of 1946 Hazel Chastain, Class of 1946 Duane Coad, Class of 1946 Rees Dee, Class of 1946 Kenneth Doermann, Class of 1946 Janet Sherman Dorn, Class of 1946 Frances Laseur Halverson, Class of 1946 Emma Howard, Class of 1946 Evelyn Kasten, Class of 1946 Ruth Kroese, Class of 1946 Donald Krup, Class of 1946 Dorothy Goolsby McKinsey, Class of 1946 Glenda Cornelius Murray, Class of 1946

Doris Gann Niemira, Class of 1946 Shirley Penney, Class of 1946 Alvin Pierce, Class of 1946 Orlen Rice, Class of 1946 Norman Ritterling, Class of 1946 Pauline Papez Schneider, Class of 1946 Alta Schutte, Class of 1946 Ann Thoren, Class of 1946 Joseph Weber, Class of 1946 Marian Weber, Class of 1946 Helen Howlett Widger, Class of 1946 Helen Williams, Class of 1946 Blenda Anderson, Class of 1947 Robert Anderson, Class of 1947 Frances Grossoehme Andrews, Class of 1947 John Beetem, Class of 1947 Nadene Lang Bergman, Class of 1947 Hilda Sparks Burmood, Class of 1947 Mildred Stamm Calkins, Class of 1947 Clifford Coburn, Class of 1947 George Coupe, Class of 1947 Mary Freed, Class of 1947 Lorene Goodman, Class of 1947 Sharon Brown Hall, Class of 1947 Lila Foster Hughes, Class of 1947 Betty Jensen, Class of 1947 Shirley Joerger, Class of 1947 Francis Guy Klassen, Class of 1947 Vergil Kreifels, Class of 1947 Thelma Wright Kuehl, Class of 1947 Sarah Lincoln, Class of 1947 H. F. Morrissey, Class of 1947 Joann Copley Neift, Class of 1947 Clifford Parsons, Class of 1947 Wilda Fulton Parsons, Class of 1947 Catalino Arrocha, Class of 1948 Phyllis Maxwell Becker, Class of 1948 Robert Brammer, Class of 1948 C Raymond Carter, Class of 1948 Robert Cole, Class of 1948 Paul Crawford, Class of 1948 Robert Dana, Class of 1948 H. C. Davis, Class of 1948 Robert Draney, Class of 1948 Hazel Hosfelt Dyer, Class of 1948 Giles Floyd, Class of 1948 David Graham, Class of 1948 Joan Hadley Graham, Class of 1948 Marjorie Remmenga Graham, Class of 1948 Joann Gustafson, Class of 1948 P. R. Hillman, Class of 1948 Oleta Mueller Hobson, Class of 1948

Shirley Balfour Johnson, Class of 1948 Eleanore Jakub Kobza, Class of 1948 Jubal Koenig, Class of 1948 John Lester, Class of 1948 Leo Livengood, Class of 1948 George Luce, Class of 1948 Roy Meinen, Class of 1948 Melvyn Meister, Class of 1948 Enid Tankersley Morton, Class of 1948 Alice Preston, Class of 1948 Marvin Richards, Class of 1948 Virginia Reagan Riches, Class of 1948 James Sugden, Class of 1948 Eva Hainline Sweetland, Class of 1948 Janet Watkins Taylor, Class of 1948 Hilda Krueger Vortman, Class of 1948 Oscar Weidler, Class of 1948 Glen Wendt, Class of 1948 Clarel Wishart, Class of 1948 Bryce Adkins, Class of 1949 Barbara Garrison Boeriger, Class of 1949 Neva Zook Buchenau, Class of 1949 Ralph Clevenger, Class of 1949 Wesley Cornwell, Class of 1949 Charlotte Rankin Cowden, Class of 1949 Helen Rowell Doll, Class of 1949 Betty Johanns Downey, Class of 1949 Mable Gawart Elya, Class of 1949 Jim Engh, Class of 1949 Donna Gerdes, Class of 1949 Anita Traub Glaze, Class of 1949 Loren Gore, Class of 1949 Annette Hawley, Class of 1949 Elsie Cowell Hegge, Class of 1949 Ruth Walker Howe, Class of 1949 Lela Edmonds Hron, Class of 1949 Esther Meints Huls, Class of 1949 Gloria Wright Jacobson, Class of 1949 Jean Jurgens, Class of 1949 Phyllis Langston, Class of 1949 Mildred Lotter, Class of 1949 Martin Nelms, Class of 1949 Betty Hennings Noell, Class of 1949 Lawrence Pientka, Class of 1949 Donita Robinson, Class of 1949 Ernest Robinson, Class of 1949 Janice Watton Rose, Class of 1949 Beverly Edmisten Roush, Class of 1949 Don Seeba, Class of 1949 Harry Sokolsky, Class of 1949 Lavae Urbauer Wight, Class of 1949 Thomas Womack, Class of 1949

Recent Alumni Engagement a Priority for Peru State College and the Foundation In fall 2018, under the direction of the National Alumni Association, the Foundation conducted a survey of Peru State College graduates from 2008 through 2018.

“The survey was conducted to better understand how recent graduates prefer to be engaged, what types of communication methods and topics are of interest, and their philanthropic giving philosophy,” said Deborah Solie, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving.

More than 840 recent alumni responded.

“The response was overwhelming and much appreciated,” said Solie. “This information will guide the National Alumni Association and Foundation next steps.”

Demographics

Engagement

Special thanks to the Peru State College’s Office of Assessment and Kristin Buscher, who helped draft the questions, conducted the survey and assisted with the analysis.

Next steps for Recent Alumni:

Based on the survey results, the National Alumni Association is creating a sub-committee to focus solely on recent alumni engagement. This group will be comprised of graduates from the years 2008 through 2018 and led by current National Alumni Association board member, Tyler Nutsch (’13).

“Our goal is to develop programming that intentionally engages with our most recent graduates throughout the year,” said Nutsch.

Giving

The sub-committee will be formed over the next few months based on recommendations from faculty, staff, alumni and friends. After the group has formed and bylaws created, recent alumni will have the opportunity to apply to be on the board.

“I am excited that we are creating something completely new for Peru State College alumni,” said Nutsch. “Our first meeting will be held in conjunction with our first recent alumni event on June 22.”

The first recent alumni programming scheduled for 2019 is a tailgate prior to a Stormchasers game on June 22.

“We are excited about the new programming and committee,” said Solie. “Our goal is to re-connect alumni with Peru State College and this group of recent alumni will lead the way.”

The Stater 23

Look at those Bobcats Go! Tiffany Anderson is teaching yearbook, photography, web page design and an intern/ mentoring class in Marysville, KS. She taught at Manhattan High School from 2001 to 2018 before joining her new school.

Jack Cook, who enlisted in the Navy his junior year at Peru, was featured in an article in the Goshen News in Indiana. Jack recounted his year-in country in Vietnam in 1968.

The Duder Family received the 150 year Heritage Farm Award. John Duda left Bohemia in 1865 and eventually settled the farm, which has been passed down through the generations.

Those future family members included Peru State alumni Ruth Ann Finck (’58), Lawrence “Larry” (67), and John (’68).

Kim Farrar began the 2018-19 school year as a new fifth grade teacher at Arbor Park Intermediate School in the Blair Community Schools.

Kris Farris retired from the education field after finishing out the 2017-18 school year. She had just completed four years of service to Johnson County Central Schools. In addition to her work at JCC, she also taught at Auburn Public Schools for 15 years and Peru State College for two years.

Chris Maher and two other Auburn residents have been operating Airstream Heating and Colling. He worked for eight years in the heating, ventilating and air conditioning field before relocating to Auburn.

Emanuel Maldonado is starting at the Blair Community School for the 2018-19 school year. Emanuel will be a Spanish teacher at Blair High School.

Debra Neighbors retires as math teacher at Elkhorn High School. She taught for nearly 25 years and spent her entire career at Elkhorn since 1993.

Adam Quintana played his first season with the Gary (IN) Southshore Railcats. Adam spent the 2017 season pitching for the Lake Erie Crushers in the Frontier League.

Tom Ridenour was inducted into the Nebraska Prairie Museum’s Sports Wall of Fame. Tom lettered in three sports in four years of high school, all-conference for two years, and all-state honorable mention for three years.

Randy Santiesteban played in his third season with the Gary (IN) Southshore Railcats.

Prior to joining the Railcats in 2016, Randy played with the Sonoma Stompers of the Pacific Association (Independent).

Susan Sisco opened an art show at the Schoolhouse Art Gallery in Brownville on August 2, 2018. It ran through August 26, 2018.

Jan Wright had poetry feature in the Kimmel Gallery at the Morton-James Public Library in Nebraska City in April 2018.

24 The Stater

1950s Bill Cummins (‘51) was honored for his time served in the US Navy by Jefferson County.

After serving in the Navy, Cummins taught and was coach at Fairbury High School, was the Fairbury Junior High principal, then the junior/senior high assistant principal and activities director, and lastly was on the Cemetery board.

Dorothy Rieke (Willberger, ‘51) created a Collection Connection program called Nebraska Farm Families During the Depression.

This program reveals both the sad and the humorous experiences of a Nebraska farm family in the Great Depression and was shown at the Museum of Nebraska Art in Kearney.

Bob Bohlken (‘59) was inducted into the “Stairway of the Stars’. Bohlken was recognized for his writings, his years of teaching as well as listening, and his military experience. The recognition is given to Bohlken after a 65-year career spanning multiple fields and organizations.

Phil Fahrlander (‘59) has been inducted into the Nebraska Music Educator Hall of Fame.

He started teaching instrumental and vocal music in North Loup Scotia and Diller school districts, then went on to serve as the Minden Nebraska High School Band Director from 1967 to 1997, where his bands were renowned for their unique marching style and high quality of music.

1960s Al Nelson (’62) has been “doing art” his whole life. Starting in 1962, he taught for 5 years at Bellevue East High School and then was offered to come to Red Oak to work for the Learning Resources Center. Along with working with the Learning Resources Center, he also did some side jobs drawing for customers.

Phyllis Hicks (Mosley, ’63) received the Community Impact Award on May 18, 2018.

This award was given in recognition of her longtime commitment and contributions to youth and the North Omaha community, and for stepping up to meeting a critical need by serving as the Publisher of the Omaha Star.

1970s Merlyn Saathoff (‘70) was honored by the Adams VFW Post 10042 with its annual Community Service Award.

Ivan Miller (’71) was inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame on April 19, 2018. This hall of fame honor was Ivan’s second of the spring as he was inducted into the Iowa High School Golf Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame in early March 2018.

Lou Grasso, Sr. (’73) was inducted into the New Jersey Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame on June 25, 2018 for his 25-season head coaching career at Roselle High School from 1979 to 2003. Lou led the Roselle Rams to more than 100 wins and three appearances in the state championship games, including a championship victory in 1989.

Doug Kingery (’75) and his 1998-99 undefeated (32-0) State Championship Tarkio, MO girls basketball team were inducted into the KMA (Shenandoah, IA) Radio Sports Hall of Fame. The team was recognized as being perhaps the most dominate girls basketball team in the history of the KMA listening area.

Terry Graham (’89) was inducted into the KMA Sports Hall of Fame for his success as a track athlete. Terry won back-to-back 400-meter hurdle championships in 1983 and 1984 as a member of Sidney’s (IA) track team. He was also on the two championship relays in 1984, the 4x200 meter and 4x400 meter.

Joan Christen (’96) was named the winner of the Rick and Linda Clabaugh Outstanding Educator award November 12, 2018. A key factor in the award is the ability to inspire, promote and sustain intellectual development of students. Dr. Christen is a teacher at Beatrice High School.

Galen Kronhofman (’75) retired from Alma Public School at the close of the previous school year this past May. Galen has been involved in teaching for 43 years. 32 of those years were as a coach and 11 as an administrator.

Beth Pieters (Roney, ’89) is a teacher for the visually impaired and an orientation and mobility specialist hired by the Iowa Educational Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired and was also contracted by the Green Hills Area Education Agency. She travels to nine different counties visiting school districts to serve students who could benefit from vision services.

Travis Dunekacke (‘99) turned his hobby of pig farming into a career. Today, he is a hog farmer, a direct marketer, a chef in his own right, a public relations person, and all-around passionate about homegrown, quality pork.

Michael Davis (’76) recently organized the national commemoration of the USS Abner Read and Crew. He was in Washington, DC for the November 1, 2018 ceremony at the United States Navy Memorial.

Tom Casey (’78) was recognized as a future inductee into the Iowa Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place sometime in February or March. Tom has put together a 40-year coaching career.

Denise Kurpgeweit (Coupe, ’79, ’97) received the Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year award from the Falls City Education Foundation. Denise is in her 40th year as an education and her 32nd at Falls City Public Schools.

1980s Suzanne Whisler (North, ’83, ’91) returned to Auburn Public Schools as the director of school improvement and curriculum.

Joyce Stallbaumer (Henry, ’85) retired after nearly 32 years of teaching at Wetmore Academic Center. She hopes to spend more time with her grandkids and build her business, Chalk Couture.

Dave Stoller (‘85) was a physical education teacher and a coach from 1971-2011. “Best job in the world is teaching the joy of physical fitness and activity. Education should begin as delightful discovery and end in wonder.”

Steve Dingman (’86), director of the online M.S. in Kinesiology and coaching program and chair of Health, Kinesiology & Recreation at Southern Arkansas University, was named the 2018-2019 Honor Professor. This is the highest accolade bestowed upon faculty at SAU. Steve also spoke at the Fall Commencement ceremonies for SAU. Tamera “Tami” Texley (Tyson, ’87) became the new Pre-K through 12 music instructor at St. Edwards Public this school year.

Alan Baldwin (’88) was honored as the last of the Seward’s Law Enforcement Officer Extraordinaire. This award was presented to recognize and thank the local law enforcement officers for their volunteer service above and beyond their daily duties.

1990s Tami Barrett (’99) was appointed as the Better Business Bureau’s new Lincoln branch manager. She will be maintaining the Lincoln office, supervising its staff, serving as BBB’s liaison to Lincoln and greater Nebraska businesses and coordinating the annual BBB Integrity Awards Event in Lincoln.

Terri Hogue (Miller, ’90, ’03) received the Outstanding Secondary Teacher of the Year award from the Falls City Education Foundation. Terri is in her 29th year as a Middle School Mathematics Teacher.

Sandy Hilding (’91, ’94) retired at the end of the 2017-18 school year after a decade as Shenandoah (IA) High School Principal, although she began teaching in 1991. She looks forward to time with her husband, reading, and gardening.

Scott Gerdes (’92) was inducted into the 2018 class of the Metro Omaha Softball Hall of Fame on November 9, 2018.

Michele Hendrickson (’93) became a Charles E. Lakin Outstanding Teacher award recipient May 8, 2018. Michele has worked at Marnie Simons Elementary in Hamburg for 24 years.

Charles Humphrey (’93) began teaching at the alternate school for Beatrice Public Schools this fall. Charles has been teaching for 20 years.

Julie Diers (’94) was featured in a Women’s Edition article in June 2018. The article showcased her heart for community and her work as a successful realtor.

Joan Fedoris (Fergus, ’94, ’07) is the new Technology Coordinator at Lourdes Central Catholic in Nebraska City starting in the fall of 2018. This gives her the opportunity to teach some computer and media classes as well as help manage available technology at Lourdes.

Mark Kolterman (’95) retained his seat in the Nebraska Legislature in the November 2018 election and will continue to represent District 24 during the next four years.

Joy Huber (’99) received her master’s degree in health communication from Boston University in Boston, MA in May 2018.

Genelle Wissing (Czirr, ’99) has been hired as the supervisor for clerical staffing for Elite Staffing, a career placement firm.

2000s Brian Daniell (‘00) will be the next High School principal at Yutan High School. Before coming to Yutan, Brian worked for 10 years at Boys Town High School where he taught and was assistant coach for basketball and football and then spent 8 years at Waverly High School as assistant principal.

Steve Jirsa (’00) has a new position with Dorchester Public Schools for the 2018-2019 school year. He’ll be teaching music along with leading one act and the spring play/musical.

Sasha Rightsell (Kuker, ’00) is the new manager of the Johnson County SENCA (Southeast Nebraska Community Action) office in Tecumseh. She began her duties July 9, 2018. She has been employed with the SENCA outreach office for 17 years. Sasha will be now serving as manager for Nemaha, Pawnee, and Johnson counties.

Darin Garfield (’01, ‘16), former Bison head coach, returns to the sidelines after a six-year absence. During his absence, he continued teaching and was the head coach for the wrestling team.

Ryan Hogue (’01) left his position as Assistant Principal and activities director in Broken Bow and was hired as the Kearney High School Assistant Principal and activities director.

Becki Deisley (Wetjen, ’02) was named the 2018 Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Nebraska Society for Health and Physical Education.

Sheri Grotrian (’02) was named the Nebraska Advisor of the Year at the 2017-2018 Phi Beta Lambda State Leadership Conference. This is her fourth year to be recognized with this award. Sheri is a Professor of Business at Peru State and has advised its PBL chapter for 12 years.

Paul Davis (‘04) has been hired to serve as pitching coach for the Seattle Mariners for the 2019 season.

Clint Jones (’04, ‘17) has been the head football coach for Meridian, and the boys head track and field coach for the Mustangs for the past 16 years. Clint has taught physical education for the past 12 years at Meridian and in his tenure he has coached junior high football, junior high girls’ basketball, junior high boys’ track and field, and was the girls’ varsity track and field coach.

Matt Blevins (’05) headlined a comedy show at Prairie City Chophouse in Nebraska City, September 15, 2018. He has also been nominated for a comedy award from the Omaha Entertainment awards. Along with performing comedy, Matt also works at Peru State College as an IT Administrator.

Rebecca Johnson (Oetjen, ’05, ’18) was hired to serve as Director of Marketing by Highland Community College in Highland, KS. Darren Tobey (’05) has been announced as a new member for the Broken Bow Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. He will start in 2019. Darren currently works as Superintendent of the Broken Bow Public Schools.

Dan Ackland (‘06) is the new principal at St. George Elementary. His goals are to make a positive difference anywhere and Ackland has been implementing good things into the Elementary school.

Evi Wusk (’06, 08) will be teaching English for 5th, 6th, and 9th grades for the 2018-19 school year at Sterling Public Schools. She will also serve as Sterling’s National Honor Society Sponsor.

Rusty Fuller (’07) started his fifth season, this fall, as head coach of the St. Paul (NE) Wildcats football team.

Shelby Gewinner (Lewis, ’07, ’09) started a new teaching position at Hayward Elementary in Nebraska City. She is teaching fourth grade.

Prior to coming to Nebraska City, she had been at Lincoln Public Schools and Conestoga Elementary.

Danny Hayes (‘07) a professor at Peru State was the keynote speaker at the 2017-2018 Nemaha County Leadership Class where he spoke with kids about connecting with everyone in society and how it can be hard to connect in certain situations.

Danny (‘07) and Nikki (Moody, ‘04) Hayes were named volunteers of the year at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce banquet.

Danny and Nikki are the co-founders of Aunt Bea’s Apiary.

Mary Robison (Corey, ’07, ’09) is teaching 7th and 8th grade math at Johnson County Central starting the 2018-19 school year.

Amanda Ackley (Stuckemeyer, ’08) is the new director of Kids of His Kingdom daycare in Auburn. Ackley stated that after a month into the job she felt settled in and was really enjoying the job.

Dena Beck (Peterson, ‘08) is the new affiliated fund development coordinator for south-central Nebraska for the Nebraska Community Foundation. Dena works with volunteer leaders to build community awareness, conduct successful fundraising efforts and increase community impact through grant making and citizen engagement.

Monica Blank (Lockard, ’08) started a new job teaching kindergarten at Ceresco Elementary at the start of the 2018-19 school year.

Fr. Justin Fulton (’08) was appointed the assistant director of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska.

Megan McGown (Stillwell, ’08) became the new marketing manager at Great Plains Health in North Platte in August 2018.

Matt Carlson (’09) began his first year at Grand View University as an Assistant Coach in their football program. Matt is in his third year teaching physical education at Central Campus High School in Des Moines, IA. Lindsey Harders (Husen, ’09) was named the Head Volleyball Coach at Northwest High School in Grand Island for the 2018 season.

Max Kathol (’09, ’11) joined the faculty at Peru State College as an Instructor of Business.

The Trecek sisters, Mary (’09), Becky (’12), Carrie (’12), and Debbie (’12), have all enjoyed and have been involve in theater for many years and are still continuing their joy of theater today. These four sisters performed ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ at the Omaha Community Playhouse.

Jayson Tynon (’09) served his first year as principal at Axtell High School in Axtell, KS during the 2017-18 school year.

2010s Adam Blaylock (’10) was hired to be the new assistant coach of the Purdue Fort Wayne men’s basketball team. Before joining Purdue Fort Wayne, Adam was the top assistant at Panola College, the top assistant at Northeast Community College, and was a student assistant at Peru State College in 2010.

Wellington Ferguson (‘10) was recently named as one of the 30 most prominent business people under 30 by a magazine in the Bahamas. After graduation, Wellington returned home to the Bahamas.

Abigail Stark (’10) the legal assistant for the city of Beatrice will become the new city attorney as of April 30. Stark was voted to her new position unanimously by the Beatrice City Council.

Jenny Wagner (‘10) is going to be teaching physical education classes and be the activities director at Centennial Public School. Before Centennial Public School, she taught fifth and sixth grade at Wilber-Clatonia and was also the head girls’ basketball coach.

Tyson Wessels (’10) is now working with the Falls City Sixpence program. Prior to this position, Tyson was a Services Coordinator for The Early Development Network in Lincoln.

Dania Freudenburg (‘11) was recommended to be the new principal at Thomas Jefferson High School. She was the principal at Roncalli Catholic High School in Omaha and has served as the dean of students at Burke High School, taught business and technology classes, coached volleyball and was an academic coach, as well as wrote curriculum for Omaha Public Schools.

Shane Myers (’11) was promoted by West Gate Bank of Lincoln to the title of vice president, mortgage underwriting manager for the West Gate Bank Mortgage division.

Gregory Verraneault (’11) was named a 2018 Alice Buffett Outstanding Teacher Award winner. He is a third-grade teacher at Fullerton Elementary School and has worked 11 years for Omaha Public Schools.

Kesha Beethe (’12, 17) spoke at the annual Board of Trustees Scholarship luncheon held by the Nebraska State College System. Her message focused on her love of helping others live the life they want.

Emilie (Baber, ’12) and Logan (’11) Merz have expanded their business, Merz Ink, to two locations, adding Nebraska City to their existing site in Auburn.

KT Saathoff (’13, ’15) is a new special education teacher at Sterling Public Schools starting in the 2018-19 school year.

Jake Schaben (’13) has been a part of Wright County Conservation for five years. He was hired to the job at the end of May 2013, just weeks after graduation.

Rebekha Dostal (’14) graduated on May 5, 2018 from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Law. She was sworn in at the Cheyenne, WY Federal District Court on September 28, 2018. She is practicing law at the Slow and Steady Law Firm in Saratoga, WY. Rachel Eberly (’14) is teaching Special Education and Resource at Lourdes Central Catholic in Nebraska City starting in the fall of 2018.

Zach Lempka (’14) has returned to his high school alma mater, Sterling Public Schools, to teach fourth grade for the 2018-19 school year.

Matt Novak (’14) is a new Social Studies teacher at Blair High School, starting the 201819 school year. He is also coaching track and basketball this year at BHS. Wendi Buggi (’15, ’17) is the new 7th and 8th grade Reading and Writing teacher as of fall 2018 at Lourdes Central Catholic in Nebraska City. She also took on the role of National History Day Sponsor and High School Head Speech Coach.

Brian Burr (‘15) has been promoted to sports and fitness director at the Grand Island YMCA. He will supervise the fitness instructors as well as more than 80 fitness classes and be a personal trainer.

Jessica Grasmick (’15) is serving as North Platte Community College’s interim dental assisting instructor.

Rachel Henry (’15) was hired by UNANIMOUS as a senior marketing consultant. She has also been announced as this year’s winner for the Inspire Award of Excellence in Business.

Greg Conry (’16) was named as the Champions Indoor Football League Special Teams Play of the Year. In addition, he was also named as a North Division First Team Selection. Greg has played two seasons with the Sioux City Bandits as Kicker.

Heather Heble (’16) started the school year at a new school district, Beatrice Public School.

Prior to going to BPS, Heather worked at Marysville Elementary School in Marysville, KS for two years.

Abigail Meyer (’16) will be joining Good Shepherd Lutheran School as a third and fourth-grade teacher. Abigail taught for 10 years at Marysville Elementary School before joining Good Shepherd.

Courtney Striegel (Bryant, ‘16) recently accepted a new position at the Pentagon. She will be working remotely for the pentagon’s financial services fraud division.

Mallory Siebold (Seay, ’17), Director of Community Health Partnership of Nemaha County, presented at the Auburn Leadership Summit in April in front of 45 individuals from across Nebraska.

Nicole Wilken (’17) was hired as the Family Development Associate for Southeast Nebraska Community Action Outreach in Pawnee, Johnson and Nemaha Counties. Her job will be to promote public awareness about the various services SENCA offers with a goal to increase clientele in Pawnee County.

Marisa Zornes (Pribnow, ’17) started her first official year of teaching for Lincoln Public Schools as an English teacher at Lincoln High School this fall.

Amanda Antholz (’18) is the newest face at Shining Stars Preschool in Blue Springs. Amanda will be teaching two classes of three-year olds at the preschool. She says that she is excited to get to know the families and the community.

Michele Capps (’18) started her new position as warden of the Nebraska State Penitentiary on June 4, 2018.

Haevyn Hug (’18) was hired as the fourth through sixth grade special education teacher at Fort Calhoun Elementary School.

Jocelyn Kuncl (’18) is one of the new teachers at St. Edward Public this year. She is teaching Preschool in the mornings and helping with Special Education in the afternoons.

Calvin Nichols (‘18) is the new 7-12 History teacher at Fairfax and will also be an assistant coach for junior high boys’ basketball, high school boys’ basketball, and an assistant coach for baseball.

Friends Spencer Davis, former Peru State history professor, was the guest speaker for a Chautauqua event held at the Cheyenne County Community Center in June 2018. Dr. Davis spoke about WWI’s impact on today. He also was the keynote speaker at the Neihardt Day event on August 5, 2018. This time, his topic was “Nebraska’s Role in WWI.” Thomas Ediger, former Peru State director of choral music, was posthumously inducted into the Aurora (High School) Alumni Association Hall of Fame.

Ryan Held, former PSC head football coach, took the role of Running Backs coach for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Huskers football team. Prior to joining the Huskers, Ryan was the Running Backs coach at the University of Central Florida.

Matt Hill, current director of choral students at Peru State College, was named one of Midlands Business Journal 40 Under 40 award winners.

Matt founded Sing Omaha, a non-profit, choral music organization, in 2007. It started to provide a curriculum-based children’s choral program but soon expanded to adults. Sing Omaha currently serves more than 500 singers across all ages groups.

Dan Holtz, a retired Peru State Professor, spoke at the Memorial Day service in Carroll.

CJ Killin comes to Idaho State after his time as assistant coach at Odessa College, New Mexico Junior College, assistant coach at Peru State College, assistant coach at Central Community College- Columbus, assistant varsity and junior-varsity basketball coach at Grand Island Central Catholic, and undergraduate student assistant at Nebraska-Kearney.

Patty Kramer, Peru State College adjunct professor of voice, returned for her fourth year as a voice coach to the Allegro Wolf Broadway Academy.

Bob Ludwig, Bobcat men’s basketball coach, was named as a finalist as one of the top small college coaches in the state of Nebraska by the Omaha World-Herald. After just his first year at Peru State College, he is in the running to be the sixth coach from Peru State to receive the paper’s top honor.

Maddie Kohrs (’18) is teaching 4th through 8th Special Education at Johnson County Central Schools starting the 2018-19 school year.

The Stater 25

Bobcats we Miss Mary Ellen (Barkley) Boyden of Woodbine, IA passed away October 17, 2018 at the age of 94. In addition to her teaching and nursing career, Mary Ellen was an active volunteer. When she found free time she enjoyed gardening, traveling, sewing and quilting. However, she always had time to spend with her family.

Sophie Rizor (Bohling, ’43) of Tecumseh, passed away October 25, 2018 at the age of 94. Sophie enjoyed flowers, reading, and for many years, volunteered for BINGO with the residents at Belle Terrace. After her retirement, Sophie enjoyed many organized tours in the lower 48 and Alaska.

Thelma (Ward) Domingo of Weeping Water passed away April 13, 2018 at the age of 99.

Thelma has an extensive volunteer history and was named as Weeping Water Ambassador for Limestone Day and as a Distinguished Alumni of Weeping Water High School. Thelma was a woman well loved by family and all with whom she met and worked.

Irma Grundman (Badbert, ’44) of Nebraska City passed away May 12, 2018 at the age of 99.

She enjoyed hosting and attending family birthday parties and other family and community events. Irma and her husband Vernon lived in the same farm house from 1949 until 2010 when they moved to the Ambassador due to mobility issues.

Margaret (Radil) Homolka of Wilber passed away June 8, 2018 at the age of 96. She enjoyed her flowers, garden, pets, family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved visiting with family, friends, neighbors and all those she met.

Andrew “Andy” Lakey (’45) of Fall River Mills, CA passed away February 23, 2018 at the age of 93. Andy was happiest when he was on his horse or in his plane, with his wife, Milly, by his side. His kindness towards others was part of his gentle spirit and his endearing smile and twinkle in his bright blue eyes will not be forgotten.

Kenneth Kreifels of Nebraska City passed away September 26, 2018 at the age of 90.

Kenny served in the US Air Force for four years during the Korean War and later worked at American Meter for 37 years, retiring in 1991.

He was very active in his community.

Art Porter of Chicago, IL passed away September 1, 2018 at the age of 63. Art worked as a Chicago radio producer and show booker where he met many famous celebrities. He also helped organize and host the NAACP awards events. Outside of work, he was devoted to his family.

Ruth (McCormick) Wilhelm of Syracuse passed away August 7, 2018 at the age of 97. She enjoyed being on the farm, having a garden, tending her flowers and documenting her family history. She played piano and organ for over 70 years and volunteered for many years entertaining the residents at Good Sam in Syracuse.

Ruth Marlene (Roe) Yelkin of Papillion, formerly of Humboldt, passed away April 5, 2018 at the age of 82. Marlene enjoyed spending time with all her family. She also enjoyed a variety of hobbies, such as bowling, reading, gardening, canning, and baking, especially cinnamon rolls and cheese cakes, family favorites.

1920s Martha Fish (Jameson, ’29) of Omaha passed away September 30, 2018 at the age of 106. Martha was recently interviewed for Peru State oral history documentary.

1940s Marjorie Rider (Moore, ’43) of Colorado Springs, CO passed away August 30, 2018 at the age of 93. Marjorie loved teaching and was involved in teaching and giving instructions her whole life. She also loved her family, cooking and travel.

26 The Stater

Evelyn Christie (Siemoneit, ’46) of Lincoln passed away October 11, 2018 at the age of 89.

She was a life-long, loyal Husker fan, enjoyed working on word search puzzles and playing solitaire on her iPad. She also took pleasure in listening to Elvis and Johnny Cash.

Ethel Nieveen (Prange, ’46) of Adams passed away April 23, 2018 at the age of 89. Ethel enjoyed baking, playing cards, being outside, attending grandchildren’s activities, supported Adams and Freeman High School at ball games, and collected thimbles.

Zola Albers (Mahoney, ’47) of Red Cloud passed away April 21, 2018 at the age of 93.

Zola enjoyed traveling, reading and her many friends. Her family was the foundation of her life and she especially loved her grandchildren.

She was active in her church and was always willing to help with community activities.

Teresa Brandt (Royal, ’47) of Syracuse passed away April 25, 2018 at the age of 82. She was a member of the CMH Hospital Aux., American Legion Aux. #360 in Cook, ladies extension club and TOPS. Teresa was also active at St. Paulinus Catholic Church and in the Altar Society.

Orthello “Buzz” Byers, Jr (’47) of Portland, OR passed away March 4, 2018 at the age of 97. Buzz loved to travel to visit his children who were living in various places around the US and the world. Throughout his life, he never complained but accepted and faced life’s challenges with courage, strength and good humor.

Cecil D. Johnson (’47) of Fairfax, VA passed away April 24, 2018 at the age of 93. Cecil trained in the Navy V-12 program at PSC. After WWII, he worked in the Army Research Institute for over 30 years. He retired as Director of the Manpower and Personnel Research

Laboratory, but continued as a consultant and authored or co-authored three technical books and chapters in several other books. Along with the impressive career, Cecil was a much beloved family man, married over 68 years with three children.

Hazel Weible (Leeper, ’52) of Nebraska City passed away September 30, 2018 at the age of 85. She was known to most as Joan and formerly worked at Joe’s Café and JC Penney’s.

Hazel loved traveling and enjoyed card games with family and friends.

Virginia Harms (Lienemann, ’48) of Beatrice passed away August 29, 2018 at the age of 88.

She was an accomplished seamstress, sewing her daughters’ wedding attire. Virginia also crocheted many projects and quilted; she handed out 13 full or queen size quilts one Christmas.

She always had a huge garden and always had African Violets.

Ramon “Ray” Koubek (’53) of Omaha passed away July 6, 2018 at the age of 85. Ray was an army vet who proudly served in the Korean War. He later worked as a mechanical engineer and was involved in the design and implementation of several attractions at the Henry Doorly Zoo.

Willa Rabstejnek (Rickman, ’49) of Table Rock passed away February 12, 2018 at the age of 88. Willa was employed at the Pawnee County Veteran Service Office for 45 years.

She was a member of Brown-Hays Unit 289 Legion Aux., VFW 5289, Eastern Star, and the Jolly Workers Club.

1950s Rosalind Cameron (Juilfs, ’50) of Dunbar passed away August 25, 2018 at the age of 86.

She enjoyed the moments most when she was surrounded by the love and laughter of her family. Her example of faith, her loving and caring heart, her gentle spirit, her beautiful smile and her love for family and friends will be her legacy.

Marion “Hank” Henry (’51) of Bettendorf, IA passed away September 26, 2018 at the age of 97. Hank enjoyed traveling with his wife, Louise, family and friends. He was an avid reader of westerns and there was not a Louis L’Amour or Zane Grey title at the Bettendorf Library that he had not read.

Eleanor Irons (Lindsey, ’51) of Weeping Water passed away August 14, 2018 at the age of 85.

Thomas Wilkie (’53) of Green Valley, AZ, formerly Sidney, IA, passed away October 1, 2018 at the age of 86. Tom began his teaching career in 1953, finally retiring in 1992. In 1998, he and his wife, Jean, moved to Arizona.

Rosina Harvey (Schacht, ’54) of Santa Barbara, CA passed away July 23, 2018 at the age of 96. Her first teaching job earned $45/ month, teaching all eight grades. After college they eventually moved to Santa Barbara where she worked for Hope District a total of 52 years.

Robert J. Thomas (’54) of Kaneohe, HI, passed away December 6, 2017 at the age of 83.

Robert was a veteran of the Vietnam War doing two tours. He retired from Hickam AFB in 1979 after 25 years of service. He was a Mason and Shriner.

Michael Treat (’54) of Omaha passed away June 23, 2018 at the age of 82.

Ila Chatfield (Stander, ’55) of Omaha passed away June 18, 2017 at the age of 86. She was a member of the Narcissus Chapter of the Eastern Star (#369).

Donna Knoche (Kunc, ’51) of Beatrice passed away August 15, 2018 at the age of 89. Donna enjoyed working in her flower garden, reading, Christmas, Husker sports (especially football and volleyball), and spoiling her grandsons.

Lila Paap (Windle, ’55) of Charleston, IL passed away December 17, 2017 at the age of 81. Lila was the matriarch of her family and a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother who was extremely organized and worked hard at making her home filled with warmth, love and deliciously prepared family meals.

Marjorie Holt (Seeba, ’52) of Rochester, MN passed away July 27, 2018 at the age of 86.

Marge taught for 24 years and upon retirement enjoyed volunteering and traveling the world.

She was “Supermom,” a gifted cook and baker, an avid gardener, a consummate list-maker and planner, a compassionate listener and so much more.

Virgil “Skip” Skipton (’57) of McPherson, KS passed away April 22, 2018 at the age of 85. As an educator he served as a teacher, principal, and Superintendent. Skip also served on the USK 418 Board of education for 22 years, was a member of the American legion, enjoyed motorcycling, camping, golf and later cards and cribbage with family and friends.

Russell Ruth (’52) of Lee’s Summit, MO passed away June 29, 2018 at the age of 87. Russ served his beloved country from January 1951 to September 1954. He was active in many civic organizations. He was a kind, respectful, humorous man who will be missed dearly.

Eugene McMullen (’58) of Frisco, TX passed away July 7, 2018 at the age of 85.

Patty Niebrugge (Colby, ’58) of Indianapolis, IN passed away January 6, 2018 at the age of 86. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, reading, and was an avid Jeopardy fan. She adored her family and especially loved spending time with her daughter and son-in-law for Sunday Dinner.

William Tempelmeyer (’58) of Lincoln passed away August 8, 2017 at the age of 85.

Margaret “Marg” Kilibarda (Svoboda, ’59) of Council Bluffs, IA passed away July 5, 2018 at the age of 80. Marg was a 4th grade teacher for the CB Lewis Central School System for 41 years, retiring in 2000 and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2015. She was an active volunteer with many organizations and societies.

1960s Paul DeVries (’60) of Lincoln passed away September 5, 2018 at the age of 80. Paul loved his family, their extended families, and many friends. Often offering his lake home for many gatherings, any reason to celebrate. He was active all of his life, enjoying lake activities, sporting events, traveling and being with his family.

Patrick Cooper (’62) of Twinsburg, OH passed away September 7, 2018 at the age of 78.

Patrick was an American History buff, who not only enjoyed reading history, but also enjoyed taking vacations to historical places. He was a talented artist, wood carver, and builder of jigsaw puzzles.

James “Jim” Agnew (’65) of West Des Moines, IA passed away August 2, 2018 at the age of 74. He started his teaching career in the Hamburg, IA Public School before moving on to the Urbandale IA Community School District. In 1973 he resigned his teaching assignment and founded his tax and accounting business. He continued in this line of work until his final retirement in 2015.

Richard Ferron (’65) of Maitland, MO passed away April 29, 2018 at the age of 75. New to the Maitland area, he and his wife Brenda looked forward to beginning a new chapter in life together. Richard was a devout Christian, avid outdoorsman, and loving and caring father and husband.

Letha Bayes (Monk, ’66) of Spokane, WA passed away May 13, 2018 at the age of 92.

No matter where Letha lived, she was active in her church and an active volunteer in her community. She loved to look at cookbooks and to cook. Anyone who visited her house was always fed and encouraged to eat a little more.

Bobcats We Miss Vivian Houts (Dooley, ’66) of Kansas City, MO passed away September 28, 2018 at the age of 94. Initially, Vivian attended Peru State College after graduating high school in 1943, but had to return home to help with the farm.

She was able to return to teaching and finally complete her degree. She was active in her church and enjoyed solving the Word Jumble in the daily newspaper. She was a devoted KC Royals fan.

John Chasse (’67) of Rutland, MA passed away July 28, 2018 at the age of 73. John taught history for 37 years and also coached multiple sports. As an outstanding athlete himself, he was a member of the Worchester Public School Hall of Fame, Leicester Junior College Hall of Fame and the New England Basketball Hall of Fame! John was also a proud Vietnam veteran, earning many commendations.

Marian Terry (Mulvihill, ’68) of Grand Island passed away October 16, 2018 at the age of 101. Marian received her normal training certificate and once her children were all school age, returned to college and achieved her BA in Education. Marian lived her life by the Golden Rule: “Treat others as you would want to be treated.”

Jane Glover (Givehand, ’69) of New London, CT passed away October 13, 2018 at the age of 71. She taught for a year in New Long public schools before serving as president of the Connecticut Education Association. She also worked for many years as a children’s librarian.

Jane was very civic minded and served on the Board of Education and City Council.

James “Jim” Kleveland (’69) of Glenwood, IA passed away July 1, 2018 at the age 71. Jim had a vast array of hobbies and truly enjoyed gardening, bee keeping, raising border collies, collecting coins, knives, and patriotic memorabilia.

Albert Smith (’69) of Braymer, MO passed away April 14, 2017 at the age of 75. He taught school for three years then was a corrections officer and assistant case worker at UMCC in Cameron.

1970s Gregory Maguire (’70) of Lincoln passed away August 11, 2018 at the age of 70. Greg retired after 38 years as assistant director of housing for the University of Nebraska Lincoln. He enjoyed watching all types of sports, especially the Huskers.

Frank Mikos (’70) of Seward passed away August 28, 2018 at the age of 73. Frank loved watching Kim and Kory play in their ball games. He also like to golf and fish and really enjoyed puttering around in the barn and doing yard work. Frank was a true family man, and his wife, children and grandchildren were everything to him.

1980s

Catherine “Cathy” Crose (’72) of Lincoln passed away November 16, 2018 at the age of 70. Cathy lived and taught in smaller Nebraska communities and substituted in Lincoln and surrounding area schools, tutoring students in need through Southeast Community College.

She was an active member of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church.

Danny Harvey (’85) of Mount Tabor, WV passed away February 7, 2018 at the age of 68.

Danny was retired from the US Air Force after 20 years of service. He enjoyed fishing, soccer, and loved gardening.

Rev. Tyrus Gilliam (’72) of Bellevue passed away October 17, 2018 at the age of 69.

Nyla Akin (Bartholomew, ’73) of Bolivar, MO passed away June 11, 2018 at the age of 73. After achieving her degree from PSC, she received an MBA from Wyoming State University and went on to work as a Registered Social Worker for 25 years.

Eleanor Hill (McMullen, ’73) formerly of Stella passed away July 12, 2018 at the age of 86.

Eleanor managed and taught at a preschool for years. She was a member of the Stella Community church, Eastern Star, Stella Research Club, and a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Janis Winter (’74) of Ankeny, IA passed away August 16, 2018 at the age of 66. Janis was a member of the Des Moines Astronomical Society, serving as president for several years. She also contributed to the Girl Scouts of America.

Janis enjoyed listening to music and loved star gazing in one of her many telescopes.

Lois Minford (Sporer, ’77) of Louisville, formerly of Murray, passed away September 29, 2018 at the age of 85. All told, Lois taught for 50 years. She was a lifelong member of Murray Christian Church and a member of Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority.

Robert Bethel (’78) of Tucson, AZ passed away October 1, 2018 at the age of 86.

Gary Allis (’78) of Columbus passed away June 4, 2018 at the age of 66. He enjoyed doing crafts, hunting, fishing and spending time with his family and friends. Gary was actively involved with his faith, attending the Church of Christ in Columbus.

Rebecca “Becky” Perkins (Rossell, ’84) of Atlantic, IA passed away August 22, 2018 at the age of 57. Rebecca worked as the children’s librarian in Atlantic but then left the workforce to raise her children, only going back after they were grown. She enjoyed sharing time with her family and her beloved dachshunds.

Christine “Chris” Overkamp (’88) of Papillion passed away September 6, 2018. Chris served as principal at St. Columbkille Catholic School for 15 years, retiring in 2010. She truly loved being around her family, including her three children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was always a great supporter.

1990s Stacy Berringer (Montgomery, ’90) of Lincoln, passed away March 22, 2018 at the age of 49. Stacy was active and involved at Westminster Presbyterian Church of Lincoln.

She loved traveling with her family and just spending time with them. Stacy was loved for her kindness and gentle heart to all those that knew her.

Jeffrey Hinz (’91) of Beatrice, passed away April 2, 2018 at the age of 51. Jeff was very creative doing all kinds of art, posting short films online and enjoyed gaming. He was a cook at Woody’s Diner.

Kim Brigham (Horsham, ’93) of Wahoo passed away June 14, 2018 at the age of 48. She began her 21-year career as an art teacher at Mead and joined the faculty at Wahoo High School in 2005. In addition to teaching, she loved coaching track and especially working with the hurdles.

2000s Randy Siepmann (’02) of Goodyear, AZ passed away May 23, 2018 at the age of 71.

He was commissioned a 2nd Lt. in the US Air force in 1969 and began a 29-year career that took him all over the world.

Mary Larsen (Morrow, ’04) of Wahoo passed away April 29, 2018 at the age of 73. Mary taught home economics/family and consumer sciences for 27 years. She also worked in foster care as a teacher, case manager and placement specialist.

2010s Rachel Curry (McMann, ’10) of Auburn, passed away October 21, 2018 at the age of 32.

Rachel loved animals of all kinds, and her work interests followed that love, most recently working at Town and Country Veterinary Clinic in Auburn. She made jewelry in her spare time and also enjoyed hunting mushrooms and deer antlers in the spring. She was also very proud of the fact she was an “8 Gallon Donor” to the American Red Cross.

Jordan Murphy (’17) of Pawnee City, formerly of Wymore, passed away September 15, 2018 at the age of 24. Jordan loved anything related to sports and was a huge KU basketball fan along with being a fan of the Huskers, Dallas Cowboys and the Lakers. He enjoyed coaching, camping, boating and being surrounded by his friends.

Friends Rex Allgood of Auburn, formerly of Peru, passed away August 2, 2018 at the age of 82.

Rex was born and raised in Peru, graduating from Peru Prep in 1953. He was a member of the Peru Volunteer Fire Department and belonged to the Peru Kiwanis Club. Rex served as Mayor for several years and was also employed

by Peru State College for 20 years.

Harlene (Palmer) Bradley of Louisville, KY passed away December 31, 2017 at the age of 75. Harlene was a 1960 Peru Prep graduate.

As a natural caretaker, she chose a career as a Registered Nurse, completing Nursing School in Lincoln, then moving to Louisville, KY where she specialized in surgical nursing for over 40 years.

Dr. David Kyle of Davis, MO passed away Sept 16, 2017 at the age of 85. David was a 1950 graduate of Peru Prep. In September 1954, he entered the US Army and proudly served his country for two years during the Korean War.

Bob “Duffy” McAdams of Peru passed away June 15, 2018 at the age of 80. Bob was born and raised in Peru, graduating from Peru Prep in 1955. Bob opened his own service station in town until starting up Duffy’s Inn which gave way to Ruboshke’s. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and was a big Husker football and Peru State College sports fan.

Miriam (Newton) Vencil of Fort Calhoun passed away November 15, 2017 at the age of 83. Miriam was a 1952 graduate of Peru Prep. She then attended nursing school and retired from nursing after 66 years. Miriam and her husband, Bob, enjoyed many trips to Wyoming, Colorado and South Dakota in retirement.

Bobcats in Love Brooke Sayler and Thomas Horky (’14) wed May 19, 2018 at The World Theatre in Kearney.

Tess Messman (’17) and Shane Bloom were married on May 5, 2018.

Marisa Pribnow (’17) and Fletcher Zornes were married on October 12, 2018. Marisa is an English teacher at Lincoln High School.

Rebecca Smallfoot (’17) and Adam Liess wed on June 16, 2018 at the Auburn Presbyterian Church. Adam is a long time employee of Dwane and Joni Bressler in Rock Port, MO. Sara Meyer and Jacob Fedorchik (’18) wed on June 30, 2018 at the Hills Event Center in Omaha. Sara is a preschool teacher at Kellum public school in Omaha and Jacob is currently employed with National Indemnity in Omaha as a desktop analyst.

Anna McCord (’18) and Joel Johnson wed October 13, 2018. Anna is currently employed

by Peru State College as a Coordinator of Admissions Services.

Anna Naber (’18) and Hayden Johansen (’18) were married on July 14, 2018. Hayden is working as a technical services manager at Buildertrend Solutions in Omaha.

Emily and Arthur (’11) Rose welcomed a baby, Maize May Rose on March 24th, 2018.

Shirley Majors of Ericson passed away May 9, 2018 at the age of 95. Shirley worked in the registrar’s office at PSC and lived in Peru. She enjoyed playing Scrabble, working crossword puzzles and traveling.

Do you have something to share?

Let the Peru State College Foundation know!

Visit foundation.peru.edu, email pscfoundation@peru.edu or call 402-872-2304.

The Stater 27

The Peru Stater

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

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

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED The mission of the Peru State College Foundation is to provide assistance and support for Peru State College, and through the National Alumni Association promote the unique legacy of Peru State College through lifelong involvement.

The PSC Foundation tasked with meeting these objectives is pictured from L to R: Annie Neveau (Program Specialist), Kelly Cole (Business Manager), Todd Simpson (Chief Executive Officer), Becca Jewell (Advancement Officer) and Deborah Solie (Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving). Contact the Foundation today at (402) 872-2304.

Like Peru State College National Alumni Association on Facebook facebook.com/PeruStateCollegeNationalAlumniAssociation

Inside this Peru Stater you’ll find…

Pg. 4-5

Alumni Events and Photos

Pg. 6-7

2018 Homecoming Review

Pg. 8-9

Performing Arts Center Update

Pg. 16

Bobcat Family Tree

Pg. 17

Jake Mertens Alumni Profile

Pg. 18

Bobcat Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

Pg. 20

Celebrating the Life of Peru State Leader: Larry Green (‘71)

Pg. 21

Donovan Takes the Reins

Pg. 23

Alumni Engagement Survey

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.