1999 The Peru Stater (Nebraska)

Nebraska's new Governor, Mike Johanns (left), visited with PSC Interim President Richard B. Flynn during the Governor's appearance at an economic development forum in nearbyAuburn in January. Johanns, making his first public appearance after his inauguration, noted "I'm committed to Peru State College" and told the large assembly he was "proud of this area of the state" for its efforts with the highly-charged PSC issues. Johanns was the first candidate for Nebraska governor to pledge his support to the Peru State campus, a stance he held.firm to throughout the primary and the general election.

(Photo

Coordinating Commission Votes On Peru State College

by Darrell Wellman ('82) Managing Editor Auburn (Neb.) Newspapers

(Editor's Note: The following is reprinted with permission of the author. It deals with the decision by the Nebraska state body conducting an intensive study of Peru State College this past year to recommend to state lawmakers the continuation and improvement of the college).

During a Nov. 30 meeting in Grand Island (Neb.), the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education voted 8-1 to recommend an improved and more visible Peru State College that would remain in Peru with learning centers to be set up in up to three southeast Nebraska communities.

Dr. David Powers, executive director of the Commission, told The Auburn Newspapers that the board approved the document referred to as Option 1.

Specifics of Option 1

*Option 1 also proposes appropriating $12.2 million (in state funds) for needed renovation and repair projects to existing PSC facilities. Of this amount, the State has already approved $5 .5 million for Hoyt Science Hall renovation, some deferred maintenance projects, and for other projects funded through LB 1100 deferred repair bond funds. Approximately $6.55 million additional appropriation from

Leonard Skov Takes The Helm

Dr. Leonard Skov, a retired professor and administrator from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, was name Interim President of Peru State College in January.

Skov replaces Dr. Richard Flynn, the Interim President at Peru State since July, who in December accepted a post as President of Springfield (Mass.) College.

Skov began what is planned as a three-month appointment on March 1. During that time,

a search committee hopes to hire a permanent President for Nebraska's first college.

"I'm flat-out excited about the way some opportunities are coming together for Peru State College," Dr. Skov said. "The campus has an opportunity to almost 're-invent' itself, and people are lining up to help.

"We're really looking forward to being there," he said of himself and his wife, Dee.

(Continued on Page 2)

Dr. Leonard Skov

the State would be required.

*Up to three collaborative learning centers would be created in southeast Nebraska. They could include the use of existing facilities in Nebraska City and at Southeast Community College-Beatrice campus as well as new centers in communities such as Tecumseh and Falls City.

The cost of construction and Legislature to consider 3 bills regarding PSC, See article page 3.

operation for the new facilities for learning centers would be the responsibility of the community where they are located. The state would incur costs related to assisting with lease fees for institutional participation and assisting to provide equipment for distance learning classrooms.

*The State College Board of Trustees and PSC administrators, faculty and staff, working in cooperation with the CCPE, would establish benchmarks (see related story) and appropriate time lines for accomplishment of needed improvements at Peru State College. The proposed benchmarks would be submitted to the Commission by April 1.

(Continued on Page 3)

.It's Almost Time For The May Reunion!

The Class of 1949 will be featured at the upcoming May Reunion, so let this be "first call" for that celebration.

The '99 May Reunion scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 7-8 is coming up quickly. Along with the 50-year Class of '49, special·guests will be members of the Class of'SO,invited to come see those upperclassmen they looked up to half a century ago.

But· remember: all who finished their days at Peru State prior to 1949 are encouraged to attend ·and recall th()se happy days on campus.

Details will be sent soon, but don't wait until· then to start planning for. the May Reunion. Get on the ph-0ne and call some friends and meet them at the May Reunion!

JFJfCOJm

Fare Well, Peru State!

bv Richard B. - Flvnn Iiiterim President

It's hard to imagine a more exciting time in the long and rich histOlJ' of Peru State College than right now. And though my time as your interim president is at an end, I wanted to pause a moment to both reflect and to look fonvard on what has been one of the most fascinating

Richard B. Flynn Interim President

and personally and professionally rewarding times of my life.

When I accepted the interim presidency last spring, I wasn't sure what to expect. Much of what I knew about the college was what I had gleaned from media accounts of the trials and tribulations involving Peru State in the last I 8 months. It wasn't a pretty picture.

But to my great joy, I found a college fiercely proud of its past and its present. I discovered a faculty and staff of genuine, caring, dedicated individuals who go beyond the call of duty to assist students. I found a physical plant in some need of modernization and repair (as is the case with every college campus) but in far better condition than had been alleged in some quarters.

In short, I found a beautiful small college that does its level best to deliver a quality education and personal seroice, all within the constraints of a budget that falls well short of its needs.

Benchmarks to be set

As you may know, the state Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education has approved a plan for keeping Peru State College open and in Peru.

The Commission has developed a set of expectations or "benchmarks" they want the college and the region to commit to; these benchmarks will be reviewed annually and the entire matter will be revisited in six years. Progress is not optional, it is essential to this college's future.

Some have expressed that these benchmarks are "roadblocks," or obstacles thrown at Peru State College. I strongly disagree. To me they represent an opportunity for this college to once and for all reaffirm the college '.s viability. When Peru State achieves these benchmarks, critics will have little if any opportunity to say Peru State isn't living up to expectations.

Every one of Peru State's alumni and supporters can and must play a part in this process. There really is no in between; we'll either emerge from this process stronger than ever, or we will fade into the history books. This is too fine a place and does too much good to allow that to happen.

Don't rely on others

You must not count on other alums and friends to carry the torch. YOU must do your share, and you must do more than you've ever done. I should point out that there are those who do not think our alumni and friends will

step fonvard. They believe that alumni support will be a benchmark which won't be met and thus a justification to close PSC.

Those people are in for a shock. In my interactions with PSC alums, I have discovered a loyalty unlike anything I have in my over three decades in higher education. I believe others have underestimated Peru State alumni.

I am confident that alums will come through; the stakes this time are simply too high. The opportunity is real, and so is the threat if we cannot deliver.

In the very near future, the Peru State College Foundation will for the first time in many years have an Executive Director who will be involved directly in working with you to secure the future of Peru State.

Announcements ahead

In a few months, Peru State College will have a new President who also will be in touch with you about the future of this college. That person will have an exciting announcement or two that I'd love to tell you about but that I want to leave for him or /;er to unveil.

My time at Peru State has been challenging, but it also has been richly rewarding. I will never forget the students, the new friends on campus and throughout the region, and the dedicated and loyal alumni.

Since this is my last letter to alums, I would be remiss if I did not mention two individuals who have seroed Peru State alumni particularly well - Senator Floyd Vrtiska and Kent Propst.

Everyone in southeast Nebraska is fortunate to be represented in the legislature by Senator Vrtiska. He is a person with great compassion for people and a great passion for his work. He understands the important role Peru State College plays in developing and sustaining southeast Nebraska, and he appreciates the quality of alumni that have graduated from PSC. Given all that he has done on behalf of your college, it would he appropriate for PSC alums to send him a note of thanks for his continuing efforts.

More thanks

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank and commend Kent Propst for his tireless efforts as Director of College Advancement and Alumni Affairs. Kent has been a great benefit to me this past year, and is a great asset to Peru State College on a daily basis.

Again, all alums and others who care about PSC are fortunate to have Kent H1orking on the college '.s behalf: I have found him to have a strong sense of commitmellf, dedication, and loyalty to the college, to the area, to Nebraska, and to higher education in general. His work ethic is unsurpassed, and he wears his "seroice to alums" role on his sleeve each day of his life! Be sure and take time to thank Kent also for his labors on beha(f of your alma mater!

In a short time I have come to understand why you love Peru State College; it is deserving of your love and your continued support.

It has been my privilege and pleasure to seroe Peru State.

I'll be watching its progress closely. I nm confident that each one of you will do your part in securing and building aji1turefor your alma mater.

Go Bobcats!

Teacher education

He joined the then-Kearney State .College in 1968 and served until 1994 as the Dean of the College of Education and Professor of Educational Administration.

Skov was UNK's Interim Vice Chancellor for University Relations from 1991-93, then returned to the classroom as Professor of Educational Administration from 1994 until retiring in I 997.

He worked for the Nebraska Department of Education from 1962-68. Skov began his career as a teacher and principal at Red Cloud, Neb. (195659) and was Superintendent of Schools in Wilcox, Neb. for the next three years.

Skov has bachelors and masters degrees from Kearney and an Ed.D. from the University of Nebraska.

Flynn lauded

He replaces Dr. Flynn, widely credited for moving Peru State College forward during one of the most turbulent periods in its history.

"I have enjoyed my work at Peru State College, and it's been a privilege to get to understand ancl appreciate southeast Nebraska," Dr. Flynn said. "It is an area with close knit communities and genuine people, and an area with a great need for accessible, affordable, quality fouryear residential college opportunities as offered by Peru State."

"This man has certainly given his all toward rebuilding

Benchmarks Examined

When Nebraska's Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education in November voted to endorse the option of keeping Peru State College open and based in the community of Peru, it came with provisions.

Foremost among the provisions were a set of I 0 "Benchmarks for Improvement" that Peru State will be called upon to address over the next six years.

The College is to report annually on progress toward these benchmarks, and the Coordinating Commission plans to re-evaluate Peru State's progress toward the goals at the end of the six-year period.

(Continued on Page 8)

an esprit de corps on this campus," said Russell Beldin, a Peru State College faculty member since 1970.

Though excited about his new appointment, Flynn noted he will leave Peru State with mixed emotions. He first was contacted about the opportunity at Springfield last April, well before he was asked to serve Peru State as its interim leader.

"I will always remember and cherish my time at Peru State College," Flynn said. "The friendships that have been established will remain particularly important to me. I will continue to follow the Peru story after my departure and know I can count on hearing great things."

Expanded academic programming, state funds for facility improvements, nonstate funding for improvements in campus residence halls, all have been called for in recent action by various state agencies.

All bode well for making a good college even better, Flynn said, and should give the next permanent PSC president the resources necessary to move the college forward at a pace perhaps unparalleled in the college's 130+-year history.

I.

The JPrem SIJOJIJte If \ President

Dr. Leonard Skov

Editor

Kent Propst (' 81)

Assistants

Carolyn Bredemeier

Jackie Baker Williams (' 81)

Sports

Chris Erickson

Photography

Tony Koso ('99)

Elizabeth Olsen ('02)

The Peru Stater is published three times per year by Peru State College with the suppport of the PSC Foundation. The Stater is printed at the Beatrice (Neb.) Daily Sun. Send comments, news items and address changes to: The Peru Stater, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Nebraska 68421-001 0. The Peru State College phone number is (402) 872-3815. Send e-mail to: propst@bobcat.peru.edu

Three Bills Are lntroauc d llege Regarding Peru State

by Martha Stoddard Lincoln (Neb.) Journal Star

(Editor's Note: The following article appeared in the Sunday, Jan. 24 edition of the Lincoln Journal Star. It is reprinted with permission of the author).

Until last week, Sen. Floyd Vrtiska thought the sun might finally come out for Peru State College.

The senator from Table Rock had convinced lawmakers to take the first step toward renovating the aging campus, appropriating $4 million toward it.

The Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education had endorsed a plan to keep the college open, make renovations and add off-site learning centers.

The State College Board of Trustees had dropped plans to move the college to Nebraska City, and even Nebraska City backers had reversed course and now supported the historic campus at its oak-lined setting in the Nemaha County town.

Legislative clouds

But two legislative clouds have appeared on the horizon.

This first is a proposal introduced by Sen. Doug Kristensen of Minden and co-signed by Sen. Ernie Chambers of Omaha. LB 63 l would make a sweeping revamp of the state's higher education system.

It would fold the State College Board in the University of Nebraska Board of Regents and eliminate the coordinating commission altogether. It would make Chadron and Wayne state colleges into campuses of the university.

And it would turn Peru State College into a campus of Southeast Community College (thus making it a two-year college).

The second cloud, LB 714, was introduced by Sen. Ron Raikes of Lincoln and co-signed by Sen. Don Pederson of North Platte. This bill would close down Peru State College by 2004 and set up learning centers around southeast Nebraska. A task force created by the bill would study the educational needs of the area and plan the new learning centers.

Shock, anger

Vrtiska was shocked and angry.

"I never had any idea," he said. "I thought the issue was resolved when the coordinating commission and the board of trustees said the only option was to renovate."

But Raikes said he wasn't convinced.

The coordinating commission raised some troubling questions about whether Peru State was meeting the educational needs of the area and whether it was attracting students from the area it was meant to serve.

Lawmakers should have the chance to look at all the options themselves, especially in the context of how Nebraska should be spending its higher education dollars, Raikes said.

"The issue here isn't necessarily Peru State," he said. "The issue is what is the best way to serve the higher education needs of southeast Nebraska? If we have $20 million to invest in higher education in southeast Nebraska, is Peru State the best way to invest it?"

Chambers believes the answer is "no."

Abolish state colleges

In fact, if he had his way, state colleges would be abolished altogether. He said LB 631 represents a compromise for him because it keeps two

state colleges open and maintains Peru as a community college.

Chambers said his skepticism about state colleges was not a reaction to his conflicts last spring with the former president of Peru State College and a former professor after racist incidents came to light. Both men have now left the system.

But, he said, the incidents drew his attention to the state college system, and he has concluded Nebraska doesn't need those institutions.

Peru State's value is especially questionable because its buildings need more work and its student base is smaller than the other two colleges.

"It's impractical to think the Legislature is going to continue putting in money for a long period of time when the return is not there," Chambers said. "We have a hydra-headed higher education system that is not logical. The discussion has to be initiated and in a broader context than just Peru State."

Studies already done

Vrtiska argues and David Powers, executive director of the coordinating commission, agrees that the studies and discussions about Peru State's future already have been done.

And those studies and discussions all wound up concluding the college was needed and renovating its buildings would be a \vise investment for the state.

"It's not an expensive campus," Powers said. "It costs less to education people at Peru than at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Omaha, University of Nebraska at Kearney or Chadron State."

Closing down the state colleges would accelerate the trend of young people leaving rural areas, he said. Many students don't come back to small-town Nebraska if they go to college in Lincoln or Omaha, but those who go to smaller, regional state colleges are more likely to be willing to stay in rural areas.

Some prefer atmosphere

In addition, Peru and the other state colleges serve students who prefer a small-college atmosphere or who can't afford the university, Powers said. "Don't you have to have some of these small regional institutions?" he asked.

The coordinating commission gave its blessing to a plan to spend $6.6 million now to renovate the old gymnasium and the library, in addition to about $4 million appropriated last year to renovate Hoyt Science Hall. Those projects are embodied by LB 650, introduced by Vrtiska and co-signed by 24 other legislators.

The commission's plan would not allow additional renovation projects during the following six years, while the college and community show whether they are making progress toward meeting goals set by the commission.

Becki Propst, a Peru State alumna and president of the Peru Chamber of Commerce, said college and community leaders were working on a plan to meet those goals and measure progress along the way.

Also required are the creation of off-site learning centers, set up with money from host communities. Nebraska City is working on the first such center. The second likely will land in Beatrice through an exchange agreement with Southeast Community College.

Powers is confident Peru State can meet the goals and maintain its value. "We think they can make a success out of it," he said.

V-5N... 12 Sports Reunion Planned

During the second World War, the arrival on campus of the Navy V-5 and V-12 Officer Training personnel was a major boost to the campus, and undoubtedly kept the Peru State sports programs alive during that era, too.

Plans are now being made to host a reunion of former V-SN-12 Bobcat sports stars next fall. The trick is, finding them.

A Reunion has been scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 4 (Labor Day weekend) at Peru State. The Bobcat football team will host arch-rival Doane College that day, too.

If you participated in both the Navy program and Bobcat sports, please contact Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010.

Likewise, if you are willing to help organize the reunion (primarily by contacting fellow V-5N-12ers to encourage their participation), let Kent know.

Most of all, begin making plans to attend and salute this great group of people!

Neb. visited with an old friend andfellow Nemalw County native, Robert Jones ( '56) now of Omaha, during a program at Peru State this past December. Jones is the cel/istfor the Metropolitan Strings Quartet, which presented a special holiday petformance at the college. (Photo by Kent Propst)

Coordinating Commission .. From Page 1

*Existing dormitories and the. Student Center would be improved through a $6.75 million investment, of which $2 million should come from the local area communities, the PSC Foundation and other donors. The remaining $4.75 million would be repaid by student dorm fees.

*Peru State College would undertake through various measures to improve student recruitment, retention and graduation rates, as well as to possibly expand academic programs and to improve its operating efficiency.

*If it is determined that the benchmarks have not been accomplished nor has there been sufficient progress toward their achievement, other options, such as phasing out the college while leaving some learning centers in place, would be considered.

Three options explored For several months, CCPE staff conducted .a comprehensive study regarding postsecondary education needs of southeast Nebraska and the future role of Peru State in meeting those needs.

The three options explored were:

*Improve the existing Peru State College and establish collaborative learning centers (Option 1, which was approved).

*Relocate the campus to a new community and establish collaborative learning centers (Option 2).

*Phase out the campus at Peru and create a series of collaborative learning centers in southeast Nebraska (Option 3). By its vote the Commission expressed the belief that Option I is the most worthy of consideration.

Now Is The Time To Show Support

by Dr. Les Russell ('51) President, PSC Foundation

For the past 18 months the Peru State College Foundation has provided the leadership and support to oppose any effort to move or close Peru State College.

From the early report of rumors of recommending the move unti I the final report of the Coordinating Commission on Postsecondary Education, the Foundation has worked determinedly ond provided resources to keep the college in Peru and to obtain state support to improve programs andfacilities which will enable it to provide excellent educational opportunities into the 2 !st century as it has for the past I 32 years.

As President of the Foundation I wish to extend appreciation and thanks to Sen. Floyd Vrtiskafor his untiring efforts and political acumen in his legislative efforts; to SBW and American Communications for their leadership, organization and lobbying abilities; to 0 'Hara and Associates for a ve1y effective lobbying effort; and to D1: Richard Flynn, the Interim President of Peru State College, for his outstanding leadership ability and determination to bring about needed changes and bringing factions together to work for the advancement of the college.

Thanks, too, to the Board of Directors and Trustees of the Foundation for their guidance and support; and to the thousands of alumni and friends who gave o.f their time, effort and resources to bring us to our present position. I feel a great amount of progress has been made as a result of this united effort.

Challenges, changes

The Foundation work is certainly not finished. Many challenges remain, and your support is solicited in bringing about the changes recommended by the Coordinating Commission on Postsecondary Education to ensure quality programs and an infrastructure lo support them i11 the years ahead.

The first major step in this process is securing the services of a Director of Development for the Foundation. This person will be given the responsibility to develop, coordinate and direct the annual fund drive, planned giving, corporation and.foundation giving, and the conduct o.f capital campaigns.

The PSC Foundation is committed to providing increased support for the college. We believe this appointment will assist in achieving this goal.

A rededicated effort by the Trustees, alumni and.fl-iends of the college will be necessary to accomplish this mission. The Foundation

Foundation To Hire Executive Director

office has received numerous notes during the time of vigorous discussions and debate indicating that individuals would not contribute until the move issue was settled and administrative changes were made.

Time for progress

Others said they were changing their wills Dr. Les Russell and removing a11y bequests to the Foundation for the college.

THOSE DAYS ARE PAST.

The legislature and Gov. Mike Johanns have given strong i11dications that the college has a hrightfllfure. The Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges is now committed to improving the structures and curriculum o.f the college.

At the direction of the legislature the CCPE has studied the educational needs the area and determined there should be a four-year college in southeast Nebraska, indicated the best solutio11 for the state was to renovate the PSC campus, and recomme11ded changes to improve buildings and programs. A change in administration of the college has occurred.

Now it is timefor us to.follow through.

If you changed your will, contact your attorney to again include the PSC Foundation. lfyou have not included Peru State in your will, consider the possibility. You may find your generosity ma_v provide even more for your heirs as well as supporti11g the college.

Let us know

In the next few years the Foundation has a critical need to knovv (f you have included PSC in your bequests in order lo document progress in the benchmarks set by the CCPE. May we hear.fimn vour'l

While you are living, consider making a substantial annual investment rdyour time and resources to support Peru State College through the Foundation.

Time are changing. The strength and wellbeing of the college is going to he increasingly dependent on the united e.ff"ort of all of us who are alumni and .fi-iends Peru State to see that it continues to provide excellent educational opportunities for the next 132 years.

May we depend upon your support!

Foundation Annual Meeting April 1O

The Peru State College Foundation Annual Meeting is scheduled for Saturday April 10, 1999.

Detaib for the meeting had not been finalized at press time, but chis will be an important meeting as the Foundation

plans for the future and the role it will take in providing assistance to Peru State College.

Invitations will be sent to Trustees the first week of March. In the meantime, if you would be interested in

The Peru State College Foundation has announced plans to hire an Executive Director to raise private funds to support Peru State College.

The announcement was made Jan. 21 by Dr. Les Russell, President of the nonprofit PSC Foundation, and by Dr. Richard B. Flynn, Interim President of Peru State.

'Tm extremely pleased with the recent, unanimous vote of the Foundation Board of Directors to approve the hiring of an Executive Director," Dr. Flynn said. "Our plans are to move rapidly in advertising this position and filling it with a person with experience and expertise in fundraising."

"The PSC Foundation is committed to providing increased support to improve the College," noted Dr. Russell. "We believe this position will assist us in achieving this goal."

The new position marks a more aggressive approach on the part of the Foundation and the college in acquiring private funds to support Nebraska's first college. The Foundation has approximately $6 million in assets and contributes approximately $200,000 per year to Peru State for scholar-

ships and other support.

The Foundation is a nonprofit, private corporation dedicated to assisting Peru State College. Established in 1957, it is governed by a Board of Trustees of 56 supporters from across the country.

The need is increasing for more private funding to augment state support for Peru State, Dr. Flynn said. In addition, Peru State and the Foundation have been challenged to raise $2 million over the next several years to supplement state funding for campus improvements.

The Executive Director position is being advertised regionally and nationally. A search committee will begin reviewing applicants in February, and Dr. Russell indicated the appointment will be made as expeditiously as possible.

"I've had an opportunity to meet with Peru State alumni from throughout the country and have found them to be very supportive of the college," Dr. Flynn said. "I believe the new Executive Director will find them very willing to offer substantial financial support."

Memorial Gifts Make A Difference

Memorial gifts to the Peru State College Foundation are a great way to pay tribute to both the person being memorialized, and to Peru State College.

These tributes typically take the form of scholarships (established, ongoing funds also called endowments) or memorials (one-time gifts).

Following is a list of such gifts received by the PSC Foundation during a period from mid-October to midJanuary.

Merle Bauer Scholarship

Margaret Lewis Bauer

Bernard & Elaine Juilfs

Bliefernich

Jack & Shirlee George Nance

Adelaide Prokop Bernica Memorial

Irene Prokop

Annabelle Wells

Al Brady Scholarship

Barbara Brady Beatty

Robert Eichenberger

John & Gail Ankrom

Mason brink

becoming a candidate for Foundation Trustee or would like to nominate someone for that role, please send the name to: Dr. Les Russell, Peru State College Foundation, c/o Peru State College, P.O. Box I 0, Peru, Neb. 68421.

If you see a scholarship or memorial fund to which you would like to add a gift, please send it to: Peru State College Foundation, c/o Peru State College, P.O. Box I 0, Peru, Neb. 68421-00 I 0.

Alma Ashley Scholarship

Diane Morrison Lukas

Doug & Jean Colbert Wymore

George & Iva Seid Brown Scholarship

Sid Brown

Samuel Cashman Memorial

Mary Reschke Cashman

(Continued on Page 5)

Northern Californians Getting Ready for '99

Who says there is no such thing as a "free lunch"?

The Northern California Chapter of Peru State College Alumni are so anxious to make nnv friends that they are offering a free meal to firsttime attendees when they get together on Saturday, April 17 at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield.

We need some new faces to get involved in the chapter, so please respond when you get your invitation.

For more information, contact:

Rex ('42) & Hope ('42) Floyd 417 Begonia Boulevard Fairfield, Calif. 94533

Carlos Harrison ('51) 724 Laurel Ave. #201 San Mateo, Calif. 94401

Bob "Red" Wilson ('51) 1650 Glenville Drive San Jose, Calif. 95124

NorCal Ringleaders

Carlos Harrision ( '51) and Bob "Red" Wilson ( '51 ), pictured here this past.fall when they returned to PSC for Homecoming, are among the ringleaders of the Northern California Alumni Association 1Fhich is gearing up for its April 17 reunion in Fai1field, Cali( (PSC photo by Kent Propst)

Omaha Group Thinking Big

Peru State's biggest alumni chapter will be hard pressed to top last year's event when over 100 people attended. But officers and other planners intend to give it a try!

The '99 Reunion will be held on Thursday, April 22 at the GermanAmerican Society Club in Omaha. If you haven't been to one of the Reunions in a few years, or have never been, give it a try and show your support for PSC.

News about people you know 1910s

Myrtle Weatherhogg Kuster ('17) was honored upon her l OOth birthday this past November. She is a resident of Hickman, Neb., where she has lived since 1907. She taught for several years near Hickman and later farmed with her late husband.

1920s

Minnie Edgington Bennett ('25) also celebrated her I OOth birthday in November in Hastings, Neb., where she has lived for the past half century. She attended Peru during summers and taught for many years.

The honors continue to be accorded to Marion Marsh Brown ('27), one of Peru State's most illustrious graduates and former faculty members. The Omaha resident was included in the "I 999 International Who '.Y Who of Authors and Writers" and in "Guide to Nebraska Authors," published this past fall.

1940s

For more information, contact one of the Chapter Officers listed below.

Lynn ('61) & Pauline ('59)

Osterholm 1636 S. 136th St. Omaha, Neb. 68144

Myrt ('47) & Dee ('42) Hall

9212 California Pl. Omaha, Neb. 68114

Erik ('61) & Jo ('59)

Torring 9024 S Circle

Omaha, Neb. 68127

78th Annual Homecoming

Peru State College's 78th annual Homecoming celebration for alumni and friends has been scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 2.

Plans are in the early stages. Traditional highlights such as the All-Alumni Reception, Homecoming Parade, and of course the Homecoming Football Game are expected. Please make note of the date on your calendar and plan to enjoy the days' festivities'

It's Not Official, But It's A Blast

Peru State's largest ''unofficial" alumni reunion will undoubtedly take place this summer in that town that yielded so many Peruvians, Worcester, Mass.

Every odd-numbered year since 1995 a group of 1960sera grads has been getting together at Chuck Colebrook's ('66) place, Colebrook's Cove in Worcester.

Colebrook and company have let it be known that they are planning for the next bash, set for July 23-25. Colebrook said, "Our '97 party was better than '95; 1999 shall be the best!"

And it's not just some of the east coast alums who take in the celebration. Many midwesterners go back for the fun, too.

If you want to be on the list

for an invitation, call or write:

Colebrook 's Cove

2 Hastings Avenue Worcester. MA 01606

(508) 856-7469

One other note. There have been rumblings that this group has given some thought to holding its 200 I reunion back in the Peru area. We aren't sure whether to notify the, PSC Alumni Office or the authorities ...

Noreen Liesveld Crawford (attd. summer '44) of Roca, Neb. was featured in the Syracuse (Neb.) Journal-Democrat this fall. Noreen is a very active Senior Citizen who did not enjoy retirement from Goodyear. Noreen now works three days a week at the Community Blood Bank in Lincoln, and in her spare time does a variety of projects. Last summer she qualified for the National Senior Olympics in Orlando, Fla. in the l 500 meter Race Walk and the Shot Put. She also enjoys gardening, flower arranging, singing in the Lancaster Chorus, bird watching, and her family to name just a few of her interests. Noreen says "I consider it a wasted day if I don't accomplish something special each and every day."

1950s

Jerry Grancer ('58) and his wife recently moved back to Nebraska from South Carolina. They are working at Linorna Beach & Restaurant, owned by their daughter and son-inlaw. Jerry retired from teaching and coaching in 1995.

Jack Hallstrom ('50) of Omaha was presented the Distinguished Service Key Award by the Omaha chapter of Phi Delta Kappa this past January.

Frances Stilwell Jolly ('58) retired in January after 39 years in the Magnolia School District in Anaheim, Calif. She was honored by the district at a celebration shortly after her retirement.

1960s

Regina Kreifels Barrett ('68) of Syracuse, Neb. plans to retire from teaching this spring after 32 years in the profession. The past 20 years she has been an elementary teacher for the Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca School System.

Joan Riggle Kunde ('62) of Beatrice, Neb. was recognized as Employee of the Year by the USDA Rural Development. Joan has worked for Rural Development for 19 years and held several positions prior to becoming the rural development technician.

(continued 011 page 9)

Arizona's Annual Alumni Assembly

Spirits were high as a diverse group of Peruvians held its 1999 Arizona Alumni Reunion in Chandler in late January.

Not only were alums from the 1930s, '40s, '50s, '60s, '70s and '80s represented, but the Reunion featured a mix of "permanent" Arizonans and a smattering of northern "snowbirds" as well.

As always, the tie that binds was the warm memories of "school days" at Peru State College.

Chapter President Annie Billings Berkheimer ('79) presided over the Reunion, ably assisted by SecretaryTreasurer Alan Shipley ('66) and Planning Committee stalwarts Ansel ('S2) and Barbara Bragg ('51) Clayburn, Carmen Gerstenschlager Sterner ('80), Charles Ferguson ('81), Al Linder ('49), George Peterson ('89), Dennis Robertson ('73), and Butch and Barb Lasko Miller ('65).

Chapter Vice President Jerry Laflin ('67) also assisted with preparations but illness forced him to miss the big event.

The Wyndham Gardens Hotel in Chandler made a fine setting for the Reunion.

Following the registration/social hour and lunch, Pres. Berkheimer welcomed the group and introduced Erma Brown Miller

('34), who reminisced about her days at Peru State and her early career as an educator.

The Clayburn's presented an excellent slide show with campus scenes from the 1 940s through the '70s. That trip down memory lane was followed by Barbara Lasko Miller's memories of an East Coast girl coming to Peru in the 1960s. Each of the presentations were both humorous and heartwarming.

College President Richard Flynn, making his farewell appearance at a PSC alumni function, spoke extensively of the expectations which the college faces in the years ahead. He emphasized the roll Peru State alumni can and must play in meeting these expectations, or "benchmarks."

He spoke of his own positive experiences with PSC alumni across the country, and expressed his optimism that the college's brightest days are yet to come.

The Chapter next re-elected Annie Berkheimer as President for 1999-2000. Jerry Laflin and George Peterson will serve as Co- Vice Presidents, and Alan Shipley was re-elected Secretary- Treasurer.

A new position, a "social secretary" who would handle some of the chapter's correspondence and goodwill initiatives, was discussed and Barbara Clayburn was appointed to the post.

Participants discussed ideas for the 2000 annual reunion and strategies to encourage even greater participation. The officers and planning committee members will be responsible for setting the date and determining the place for the next get-together.

The group plans to survey Arizona alums to get additional information and ideas about what they seek in a Reunion. Pres. Berkheimer will lead the effort to develop the survey.

Dr. Flynn presented gifts to the officers and to Erma Miller as Earliest Alum in Attendance and George Peterson as Most Recent Graduate in Attendance. He also bestowed bronze 50-year medallions upon Mrs. Miller, Ernest Strauss ('47) and Al Linder.

The meeting was adjourned with the singing of the Color Song.

For more information, contact one of the chapter officers listed below.

Annie Billings Berkheimer ('79)

6408 S. Pine Tempe, Ariz. 85283

Jerry Laflin ('67) HC Box 204 Sells, Ariz. 85634

Alan Shipley ('66) 8647 B. Cambridge Ave. Ariz. 85257

Peru Tales

Capitol City Chapter

The Lincoln Alumni Chapter is still some months away from its fall reunion, so a date and place haven't yet been determined.

Chapter officers include Bob Kelly ('69) as President, Vince Henzel ('86) as Vice President, and Cindy Hoffman ('82) as Secretary/Treasurer.

If you want to get involved in the Lincoln Alumni chapter,

contact one of the

below.

Bob Kelly ('69) 6601 Teton Drive Lincoln, Neb. 68510

Vince Henzel ('86) 530 I NW Third Lincoln, Neb. 68521

Cindy Hoffman ('82) 4921 Elk Ridge Road Lincoln, Neb. 68516

Kansas City-Area Chapter

The Kansas City-Area Alumni Chapter is waiting patiently to set a date for its 1999 reunion, held in the fall. Because the group meets on a Sunday, it must wait until the hometown Kansas City Chiefs football team unveils its schedule before setting a date, to avoid traffic and other schedule conflicts.

Randy Hansen ('74) is Chapter President, with Jim Lyons ('66) Vice President, Nancy Larson Lyons ('67) Secretary, and Bob ('SO) and Elaine Beethe ('SO) Roberts

as Co-Treasurers. If you want to be involved in the chapter, contact any of these officers listed below.

Randy Hansen ('74) 13700 W. 81 st Terrace

Jim ('66) & Nancy ('67) Lyons 275 SW 2001 Kingsville, Mo. 64061

Bob ('SO) & Elaine ('SO) Roberts 1341 S. Mulberry Ottawa, Kan. 66067

Rocky Mountain Sets Aug. 14

The '99 Reunion of Peru State College's Rocky Mountain Alumni chapter is heading back to the Denver metro area after several successful reunions in Ft. Collins.

The group has announced plans for a Saturday, Aug. 14 reunion at The Old Neighborhood Restaurant, located in Arvada, Colo. It will be a luncheon gathering according to Chapter President Ellen Hunzeker Hajek ('62).

The chapter encompasses Colorado, Wyoming, western Nebraska and western Kansas. For more information contact

any of the officers listed below.

In the meantime, alums in that area should note the date on their calendars.

Ellen Hajek ('62) 12750 W. 6th Place Golden, Co. 80401

Mick ('Sl) and Pat ('S2) Bornemeier 1923 26th Avenue Greeley, Co. 80631

Carol Duerfeldt ('S2) 261 Mt. Alice Court Livermore, Co. 80536

lee ('55) and Peggy Eickhoff ('56) Norris share old war stories with Curt lindell('54, right) during the '99 Arizona Alumni Reunion. They were among a contingent of Peruvians who spend part of their winters in Arizona and took advantage of the late-January reunion to catch up on developme.11ts >vith one another and at Peru State. (Photo by Kent Propst)

Ansel Clay/mm ( '52, left) and George Atwood ( '43) told tales out of school during the recent Ari;:.ona Alurnni assembly, held in January in Chandler, Ariz.. Each decade from the 1930s to the 1980s was represented at the get-together. (Photo by Kent Propst)

chapter officers listed

Presidential Search Committee, Process

The search is on to find the 27th President of Peru State College.

A 17-member committee has been entrusted with the task of determining the next President for Nebraska's first college. The committee, appointed in early January, will work toward filling the vacancy sometime after May I.

Committee members represent the students, faculty, professional and support staffs of the college, plus area citizens and representatives of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State

Colleges.

Faculty and staff members on the committee include Dr. Rich Clopton, Dr. Dan Cox, Dr. Dan Holtz, Peggy Jones, Eldon Kistner, Tara Kreklau, Lisa Parriott, Dr. Kathryn Rempp, Erin Sayer, and Dr. Jim Thomas.

PSC students Julie Bixler and Russell Crouch, area residents John Chaney, Bob Engles and Carla Patterson, along with Dr. A.O. Gigstad and Dr. Carrol Krause, round out the group.

Harshbarger to Head PSC Student Services

Ted L. Harshbarger ('77), a Peru State College administrator for the past I 0 years, has been named Interim Dean of Student Services at the college.

Harshbarger began the appointment on Feb. 15. He replaces Lou Levy, who accepted a vice presidential post at Austin, Texas, Community College.

"Since I came to Peru State I've been impressed with the work of Ted Harshbarger," said Dr. Richard Flynn, Interim President. "He is an individual who is strongly committed to Peru State College, and he has a vast array of experiences within the college and the educational field.

"His administrative background and expertise prepare him well to provide leadership to the student services area," Dr. Flynn added.

Harshbarger, who lives hear his native Humboldt, is currently the Director of Cooperative Education and Career Services at Peru State. He' II continue with those responsibilities.

He also teaches classes at the college, and was PSC's

Director of Athletics in the early 1990s. He also is the State Advisor to Phi Beta Lambda national business honorary.

Harshbarger was Manager of Vocational Student Organizations for the Colorado Community College and Occupational Education System prior to joining Peru State in 1989. From 1978-87 he was a teacher, adviser and coach in the Tecumseh (Neb.) Public Schools.

"I expect a smooth transition," Harshbarger said. "We have good people on our student services staff, people who are fully capable of running their own operations and who believe in keeping students uppermost in their inind."

Harshbarger earned his bachelors degree from Peru State and has a masters degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He is pursuing a doctorate from UN-L.

As Dean of Student Services he' 11 oversee operations of Peru State's admissions, financial aid, student support services, student programs, residence life, intramurals, and health center areas.

Stars Enshrined

The 1998 class o(Nehmska Hif!,h School Sports Hall of Fame inductees had a great representation from Peru State College during ceremonies held this past fall. Honored due to their contributions as athletes, coaches, administrators or ofji"cials were (from left) Jack Hallstrom ('50) of Omaha, Cecil Walker ( '41) Fremont, Jon Appleget (

Bench marks

The I 0 areas for which benchmarks were established include:

*Improved retention of students

*Improved academic assessment processes

*Improved community amenities

*Improved facilities utilization

*Renovation of key campus facilities

*Improved faculty, staff and student diversity

*Improved support from the community & surrounding area

*Improved Foundation & alumni support

*Development of "learning centers" in other communities

*Improved recruitment of students, especially those students from urban areas who could benefit from Peru State College's admission policies

............................ From Page 2

and ability to provide more individualized attention to students; and transfer students, particularly students from the two community colleges in Peru State College's service area (Metro and Southeast).

Peru State has been asked to help develop the benchmark levels by April I.

The College isn't the only body on which expectations are placed. The State of Nebraska is expected to appropriate $12.2 million "for needed renovation and repair projects to existing Peru State College facilities," according to a Commission report.

However, Nebraska government already has approved $5.5 million for Peru State projects, leaving the difference at a little over $6.5 million in new funding expectations.

Dormitories and the PSC Student Center - which are

not state-owned buildings but instead are funded by revenue bonds - were identified by the Commission as in need of approximately $6.75 million in renovations.

Of that amount, the Commission expects $4.75 million to be repaid by the issuance of new bonds, and $2 million from private funds (such as donations).

The Commission wrote: "If it is determined that the benchmarks have not been accomplished nor has there been sufficient progress toward their achievement, other options, such as phasing out the campus would be considered."

The challenges clearly have been laid before the College and its supporters. Everyone must play their part in writing the successful conclusion to this chapter of Peru State College's history book.

Ted L. Harshbarger

'59) of Fremont, and Jim Mather ( '47) of Arapahoe.

Veteran Professor Leaves For Utah

Though Vic Ferre lived in Utah for several years and received two of his three college degrees there, the Peru State College educator didn't feel I ike he was going home when he moved to Salt Lake City recently.

In some respects, Dr. Ferre considers Nebraska more of his home, noting: "I've lived in Nebraska for most of my adult life."

The veteran Professor of Education left Peru State after over 20 years on the PSC faculty. A desire to be closer to family living in Utah was behind the decision.

Dr. Ferre "would like to have left before the start of the school (1998-99) year, but I wanted to give Peru State time to find my replacement," he said. "I didn't want to leave Peru State high and dry."

That's not a surprise considering the time and energy he has invested in Peru State College. Ferre joined the college in 1978 after two years at Southeastern Louisiana University and two years at Lenoir-Rhyne College in North Carolina.

Diverse background

Ferre also had experience as an elementary school principal in Sterling, III. and as an elementary school teacher in Weber County, Utah. That diverse background was the perfect preparation for his job educating future teachers at Peru State.

His doctorate is from New Mexico State University, his masters from Utah State, and his bachelors degree was earned at Weber (Utah) State College.

When Ferre learned of the opening at Peru State through a trade journal over 20 years ago, he already had some knowledge of Nebraska's first college. An administrator he knew at New Mexico State had worked at PSC, and he had met and discussed PSC with several Nebraska college professors at a conference.

"When I came for the interview, the faculty was friendly and I didn't mind the rural area at all," he said. Ferre said he "never gave it a thought one way or another" that he'd still be at Peru State 20 years later.

Ed booster

Though Ferre has left the field of education to work in Salt Lake City for an internet service provider, he remains an unabashed fan of the education profession.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed it," he said. 'The thing I've enjoyed most, of course, has been the association with students and faculty.

"Teaching is a job where you continue learning," he said. "It's challenging; you work with educated people; it offers a lot of variety; it's not stale and changes constantly; and you associate with a lot of different types of personali-

ties. It's a lot of fun.

"There are negatives, of course, just as there are with any job," he added. "The salary for beginning teachers is poor, and there are more problems for teachers to deal with due to changing social conditions, single-parent families and things like that."

Little change

In general, though, Ferre feels changes in the teacher education profession during his nearly 30 years in the business have been relatively minor.

"Computers, of course, represent a change, but we've always dealt with technology in the classroom," he said. "It used to be audio-visual equipment instead of computers.

"I don't see much change in the learning style or in teaching technique," he added.

Reflecting back on his years at Peru State, Ferre said one thing stands out in his mind. "The students who come to Peru State have been particularly personable and sincere, moreso than any other university or college I attended or taught at," he said.

"It's been good here (at Peru State)," Ferre said. "I'll miss it; after this long, you're bound to!"

Peru State Criminal Justice Project Gains National Honor

The American Correctional Association has given its Award of Excellence to Peru State College and the Nebraska Department of Corrections for a joint program aimed at helping keep inmates out of prison after their release.

A book just published by the Association contains a chapter dedicated to the

Nebraska Life Skills program, too, according to Dr. Joel Lundak, a PSC Professor of Psychology and who designed much of the program.

The Nebraska Life Skills program, funded by a threeyear grant from the U.S. Department of Education, was a collaborative effort by Peru State and the state Corrections Department.

1960s (continued)

Boyd Mattox ('65) moved to his hometown, Tecumseh, Neb., after retiring from the State of Nebraska Department of Roads where he had worked for over 36 years.

Wayne Miller ('69) was featured in an October article in the Hamburg (Iowa) Reporter newspaper. He is in his second year teaching special education and physical at Hamburg. Miller also serves as assistant football and basketball coach.

Chuck Mizerski ('69) of Lincoln, Neb. led his Class A football team to another state championship this fall. The Southeast Knights ended their season with a 12-1 record.

David Pratt ('68), an art teacher in the Perry (Iowa) school system, has been named Iowa's Outstanding Secondary Art Educator for 1998-99. He has been a member of the Art Educators of Iowa for the past 30 years.

1970s

Gale Bly ('74) of Tilden, Neb. led his Elkhorn Valley volleyball team to the Class C-2 state volleyball tournament this fall. They were defeated in the semifinal round and ended the season with a 22-6 record and number five ranking in the state.

Inez Brettmann ('70) of Auburn, Neb. was selected to the 1998 edition of "Who's Who Among America's Teachers." Inez retired from the Humboldt School System last spring after teaching many years there.

Aline Jones Bryson ('71) was honored this past fall for her work at Echo Hills School in Millard, Neb. She is a special education instructor there.

Terry Dennis ('70) of Bloomfield, Neb. was assistant football coach for the Bloomfield Bees this season. They reached the finals of the Class C-2 playoffs and ended their season with a 12-2 record.

Bob Garcia ('78) was the subject of an extensive feature in the Omaha World-Herald this past November. Garcia, remembered as a standout runner at Peru State, now commutes the over six miles to his teaching job at Omaha South High by running, and gets home the same way. Garcia teaches math and coaches cross country at South High. He still runs competitively as well.

Teresa Kracke Hahn ('77) of Johnson, Neb. was selected for the 1998 "Who's Who Among America's Teachers."

Denise Coupe Kurpgeweit ('79) and husband Lee of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of an adopted son born in August. He has been named Aaron Daniel.

Its goal was to help reduce, through educational programs and mentoring in state correctional facilities, the rate of recidivism (inmates later sent back to jail) by inmates after parole. The aim was to provide inmates with the skills to succeed in society after their release.

(Continued on Page JO)

Rod Montang ('71), Superintendent of Schools in Maquoketa, Iowa, was featured in a December issue of the Maquoketa Sentinel-Press. Montang is active in community affairs such as Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, and Optimists, and is pursuing his educational doctorate from Illinois State University. He and his wife the former Janie Riepe ('76) have two daughters.

Nancy Herrick Schulenberg ('79) of Table Rock. Neb. was selected to the fifth edition of "Who's Who Among America's Teachers, 1998." Nancy teaches in the Humboldt School System.

(continued on pnge I 0)

Dr. Vic Ferre

Pe State Adds Weekend Courses in Omaha

The 1rogram isn't new, but the method of ends" when scheduling the classes. deliver1 Peru State College business classes in the rnetropolitan area is a new one.

As of January, Peru State began offering classes on Friday evenings and Saturdays at the Nebrack:\ College of Business, 3350 North 90th Street. The effort is designed for adult learners, especially those with weekday commitments to family and/or work.

Alumni looking to update their business skills :dso might want to investigate the program.

For vc.ars PSC has offered business classes during the week at Ralston High Schooi and at Offutt ir Force Base. according to Jack Hamilton, chair of PSC's Division of Business.

According to Dr. Bob Smallfoot, Director of Peru State's Continuing Education (off-campus) program, it was NCB Executive Director Ken Sigmon and Director of Education Stan Hendricks who "suggested we look into week-

Peru State's reasonable tuition, three area locations, and the choice of days of the week and times of the day when the courses are offered make the program extremely accessible, both Hamilton and Smallfoot said.

Options available within the business administration degree include management, accounting (NCB site only), and management information systems (MIS), Hamilton said.

Two-year degree grads from NCB, Metro Community College, Iowa Western Community College and even from Southeast Community College can move into the Peru State program without a hitch, Smallfoot said. A number of SCC grads living in the Omaha area have expressed interest, he said.

For more information about the program. call Peru State's Office of Continuing Education at (402) 872-2241 or toll free at 1-800- 742-4412.

Criminal Justice ...................... FromPage9

Affects hundreds

Over 630 inmates at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, the Lincoln Correctional Center, and the York-based Nebraska Center for Women were involved in the effort, Dr. Lundak said.

But inmates weren't the only ones who benefited from the Nebraska Life Skills program, Dr. Lundak was quick to emphasize. Nearly 130 Peru State students who participated gained an incredible education and experiences that they aren't likely to forget, he said.

"The benefit was mutual," Dr. Lundak said. "One of the most important ones for Peru State is that it created interest on campus that led to our establishing the criminal justice program.

Jr <eJfl!Jl VJl Ulit

1970s (continued)

Gayle Swisegood ('74) of Falls City, Neb. was elected president of the Nebraska Association of County Officials at their annual meeting in December. Gayle is a County Commissioner in Richardson County.

Peggy Williams ('77) of Brownville, Neb. was selected to the 1998 edition of "Who's Who Among America's Teachers." Peggy is an English teacher at Southeast Consolidated at Stella, Neb.

1980s

Bob Baker, the Dean of Continuing Education at Peru State from 1982-92, has retired as Associate Dean of Community Education at Central Community CollegeHastings (Neb.). He retired to Brunswick, Ga.

Mike Bird ('81) and wife Carla of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Nathan Michael, born in December. He was welcomed home by a brother Terry, and sisters Ashley and Jenna. Bob Baker

Billie Kay Bodie ('84) has been appointed as manager and principal lending officer of The First National Bank of Summerfield, Kan. She had been working with American National Bank at branches in Tecumseh and Elk Creek, Neb.

Candace Cotton ('88) has been named activities director at Camp Catron in Nebraska City.

Paul Crawford ('84) received a doctorate in Medieval History from the University of Wisconsin this past May. He is an adjunct faculty member at the University of WisconsinMilwaukee this year.

"Our students gained experience in the correctional system, and they learned to see inmates as individuals," he added. "They experienced firsthand both the benefits and occasionally the problems associated with correctional programs."

The students combined to spend nearly 2,500 hours tutoring inmates, he noted.

Various topics

Some of the tutoring was in practical areas like using computers. Much of it was in more abstract fields, such as improving inmates' selfesteem; learning leadership and team-building skills; learning to control anger; learning to think positively; and learning better parenting skills, Dr. Lundak said.

"The program gave our students wonderful background with which to interview for jobs in the field," he noted. "Many of them went on to positions in corrections."

Inmates involved in the Nebraska Life Skills project showed a 58 percent decrease in involvement in violent incidents within six months, and a 50 percent decline in nonviolent disciplinary incidents, he said.

The program lapsed a few months after the Department of Education grant ended, Dr. Lundak said. He hopes that other states reading about the Nebraska Life Skills program in the book "Best Practices: Excellence in Corrections" might adapt it to their own needs.

Tim ('89) and Jill Blankenship ('91) Dejonge of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Jenna Katherine, born in October. Jenna was welcomed home by Jamie 8, Erin 5 and Eric 3.

Judith Thompson Dorste ('87) of Auburn, Neb. has been promoted to financial advisor with Waddell & Reed Financial Services. She had previously been a substitute teacher.

Diane Keane Eason ('86) of Tucson, Ariz. has received her Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Arizona. She is the Director of Education at Chaparral College, a private four year college in Tucson.

Mary Gail Beccard Farris ('81) has completed a masters degree program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and now is a certified teacher of the visually impaired. She and her family live in Nebraska City.

Dean Filipi ('82) of Milligan, Neb. led his Milligan football team to the Class D-3 (six-man) state championship this fall. The Roosters ended their season with an 11-1 record.

(cominued on page I 5)

The PSz Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. Thomas L. Ediger has been entertaining audiences both on and. campus this academic year. The Concert Choir is one of three vocal music groups, which also include rile Madrigal Singers and the Misty Blues Show Choir. (Photo by Elizabeth Olsen)

Peru State College and the PSC Foundation thank the following benefactors who gave gifts totaling $200,617 during its calendar year 1998. If your name isn't on the list, make certain it is in '99!

Send your tax-deductible gifts to: Peru State College Foundation, P.O. Box 10, Peru, NE. 68421-0010. For information call the Foundation office at ( 402) 872-2304.

Foundation Trustees $11,205

Clyde Barrett (' 56)

John Chaney

Rhonda Ahl Chomas ('77)

Lois Christensen (' 48)

Barbara Bragg Clayburn(' 51)

Esther Divney

Brenda Rausch Douglas ('83)

Judson Douglas III ('56)

Bob Engles ('73)

Harvey Fraser (' 65)

Marvin Gerdes ('53)

Richard Good (' 48)

Michael Guilliatt ('67)

Dr. J C Hauserman

Bob Hemmingsen

Russell Hicks ('63)

Ken Hutton ('50)

Jim Krajicek ('86)

Bradley Lockhart ('83)

Lyle McKercher

Tom Morrissey

Dwain Myers

James Oestmann

Dela Polston (' 55)

LeRoy Redfern (' 41)

R. Wiley Remmers ('38)

Lester Russell (' 51)

Gary Schaffer ('68)

Leland Sherwood (' 57)

Duane Stehlik

Annie Thomas

Floyd V rtiska

Carol Wheeler ('74)

Ron (' 58) and Fran Larson (' 58) Witt

Armon Yanders (' 48) Alumni

Classes of 1915- 25 $245

F.L. Stoddard

Neva Nutzman Pickwell

Steve Stastny

Class of 1927 $100

Gertrude Hansen

Leone Pierce Krikac

Grace Reeve Stansbury

Gladys Harshbarger Taylor

Class of 1929

$200

Ralph Chatelain

Mona Lyon Coffman

Margaret Clineburg Jones

Walter Naiman

Claire Codington Warman

Mary Gray Ziegenbein

Class of 1930 $60

Margaret Grafft Dickey

Margaret Majors Mclninch

Pauline Lyle Scott

Class of 1931

$300

Velma Fulton McMullen

Irene Cole Mills

Frances George Tewell

Class of 1932

$31,891.59

John Bath

Donna Delzell Fink

Jean Blankenship Morgan

Helen Nauman Murphy

Marjorie Arn Speece

Class of 1933

$262.50

Dale Dyke

Harold E. Fisher

Belva Carder Garst

Lela McCann Peck

Eva Kimsey Perry

Doris Vance Stauss

Mildred Jodry Vanderford

Mary Hervey Wolf

Class of 1934

$820

Mathilda Barisas Brown

Burdett Cowel

Edna Maystrick Fitch

Pearl Doig Foose

Marietta Goding

Joyce Grubb

Moras Shubert

Helen Gilbert Smith

Beatrice Stoft Vossler

Class of 1935

$330

Harriett Leach Burch

Lelia Frazer Helms

Elizabeth Bartling Kahler

Max Kerns

Robert Sayer

Willard Shumard

Herbert Wall

Class of 1936

$340

Rachel Adamson Kerns

Chloe Pate Lehman

Elinor Majors McGee

C. Dana Nixon

Adele Penterman Reed

Lucille Bicknell Smith

Class of 1937

$320

Elsie Perry Ellington

Willes Ludington

James Perdue

Luceen Maag Schmelke

Dorothy Cawthorne

Shumard

Class of 1938

$41,344.81

Merlyn Wittler Arends

Vera Eschen Cox

Wilma Lichty Duey

Tom & Edus Hahn

Goldenstein

George Grafton

Joe Halterman

Lloyd Heim

Merna Jensen

Harold Johnson

Eugene & Mary Murphy

Miller

Arlene Heinke Mitchell

Gwen Decker Mullins

Maxine Metcalf Pankonin

Charles Parnell

Wiley Remmers

Ralph Scholl

Marjorie Stevenson

Frederick Wolter

Class of 1939

$1,242.50

Ingrid Johnson Alexander

Eleanor Hemphill Brooks

Maxine Randall Clarey

Roberta Cowell Gerber

Genevieve Parriott Gergen

Margaret Nusbaum Gerlt

Paul Hallenbeck

Mary Grush Hove

Glema Meier Mahr

Alice DeVore Organ

Maxine Aufenkamp Remmers

Helen Larson Seiger

Mary Matthews Solie

Hazel Wall

Robert & Mildred Knoflicek Weber

Dorothy Coatney Wolter

Marjorie Hull Zink'

Class of 1940

$2,030

Marjorie Wareham Akers

Helen Janecek Clark

Beunice Doty

Marcella Redding Goerke

Ellen Evans Greenwald

Gladys Grush

Rita Russell Hanna

Mary Parker Hutton

Lloyd K. Johnson

W. Hubert & Winifred Hall Johnson

Kenneth Knapp

Margery Adams Mason

Leora Libhart Muck

Frances Wrightsman

Rarick-Grant

Eula Redenbaugh

Mary Todd Rogers

Marvin Schacht

Walter Watkins

Class of 1941

$2,660

Marjorie Birkmann

Janet Ebers Blue

Fletcher Cline

James Crawford

Elvera Schacht Desmond

Bernice Neddenriep Evans

Ruth Marshall Filmer

Jack Gabus

Josephine Citta Godown

Delton Goerke

Russell Gorthey

Melvin Gottula

Thelma Mayfield Grafton

Carolee Garver Heim

Mary Schutz Holter

Marlin Krug

Woodrow Lambelet

Harold Lantz

Frank C. Larson

Donna Duerfeldt Pryor

LeRoy Redfern

Ross Russell

Grace Boevink Stark

Wilma Parnell Stevens

Margery Evans Teel

Class of 1942 $1,655

Ellis & Corinne Whitfield

Adams

Maurice Anderson

Edwin Argabright

Mac Jane Young Bergeron

Oscar Bretthorst

Max Burroughs

C.Thomas & Marjorie

Kennedy Dean

Vincent Drcczen

Dorothy Armstrong Elliott

William Fankhauser

Rex & Hope Carter Floyd

Dec Leonard Hall

Ralph Hays

Virginia Stepan Hunt

Max & Wilma Miller

Jackson

Melvin B. Larsen

Helen Mastain Moody

Edith Wiley Norris

Evelyn Hacker Read

Nancy Jones Redfern

Grace Muenchau Russell

Hilda Freeze Stahly

Bertha Clayburn Sutton

Dennis Wehrmann

Betty Collins Wharton

Robert E. Williams

Class of 1943 $1,290

Marjorie Weiler Byers

Frances Hoagland Cw;sel

Leona Bertwell Cline

Maxine Tucker Drcezcn

Margie Neddenriep Eloc

Norma Albrecht Fisher

Margaret Applegate Fitch

Luther Hutton

Nina Kane! Klaudt

Betty Miller Knoll

Lydia Vosicky Lewis

Robert & La Vara Oakley

McAlexander

Mary Mannschreck Mills

Marjorie Moore Rider

Sophie Bohling Rizor

Gilbert Schreiner

Iva Armstrong Shaw

Margaret Gardner Skoog

Lucille Bricker Tackett

Carl Wirth

Class of 1944 $635

Elaine Juilfs Bliefcrnich

Freddie Drexler

Evelyn Slagle Garrett

Betty McArdle Harouff

Arnold Hector

Wallace Horton

Robert James

Wilmetta Taylor Leslie

Margaret Dressler McKie

Virginia Mobley Lawrence

Hazel Palmer

Rogene Rose Rachow

Virgie Lee Johnson Shaw

Don Stark

Depke Andres

Larrie Bell

Mary Reschke Cashman

Gerturdy Nicholson Finley

Ilene Thiltges Good

Leonore Larson Graf

Richard Hanson

Maijorie Rogers Hunzeker

Andrew Lakey

Max Magwire

Jack Mast

Richard Mastain

Marilyn Hoberg Puckett

Esther Merritt Renner

Patrick Rooney

Patricia Carmine Russell

Hayes Schoenbohm

Schreiner

Barbara Dressler Stratis

John & Virginia Altaffder

Stuhr

Lois Mercer Ursdevenicz

Betty Berger Weirick

Class of 1946

$620

Louella Tiemann Adams

Ruth Eschen Beatty

Una Mac Leech Biaggi

Ardys Hunt Brugman

Joan Thickstun Buhmiann

Phyllis Winkle Chance

Wilma Rhinehart Handley

Willard Hunzeker

John Lawrence

Evelyn Stepan Neve

Delores Schreiner Pedersen

Alverta Rehm Wells

Class of 1947

$1,910

Elsie Williams Arbuckle

Wanda Nicholas Brown

"Buzz" Byers

Hester Friedly Clark

George Coupe

Shirley Barkhurst Haith

Myrton Hall

Margaret Spellman Harrold

Ernest Horacek

Frances Finkle McQuinn

William Rachow

Dorothy Shiveley Sierks

Dorothy Stepan

Doris Wagner V rtiska

Neva Russell Walker

Anna Pfister Watkins

Robert Webber

Class of 1948

$3,595

Murvel Annan

Margaret Lewis Bauer

Ralph Beatty

George Blocher

Lois Christensen

Melvin Doeschott

Wm. B. Edmondson

Elaine Brier Gleason

Richard Good

Ralf & Aileen Wheeldon

Graham

Charles Henning

Gail S. Miller

Ruth Emigh Nixon

Percy Schmelzer

Donald & Betty Johnson Smith

Yanders

Class of 1949

$670

Darlene Brown Auer

Bernard Bliefernich

Arthur Brophy

Stanley Cameron

Beverly Hauptman Dea

Roger Freet

Erma Ehlers Gobber

Ruby Ebert Grundman

Amber Dougherty Highfield

Ruth Walker Howe

David Lang

Al Linder

Joan Johnson Marfice

John McQuinn

Rozellen Ballard Norstadt

Robert Paap

Opal Nyland Rawson

Phyllis Steever Redemann

Mary Todd Rogers

Wilson Sigerson

Martin Svoboda

Robert Trail

Class of 1950

$922.50

Marvin Brown

Trudy Toggweiler Budlong

Robert Clark ·

Dona Peterson Doeschot

Noeline Ficke

Phyllis Rogers Finkle

Orville Gobber

Shirley Stanley Hall

Jean Lloyd Howland

Ken Hutton

JoAnn Adams Jones

Bill Kinman

Hazel Rohrs Knippelmeyer

Roy Laue

Bobby Dean Livingston

Louise Scott Luttman

Donald R. McKim

Ed Mincer

Janice Krueger Niedfeldt

Jean Krueger Niedfeldt

Fred Norstadt

Verla Nincehelser Perry

Robert Rawson

Robert Resz

Bob and Elaine Beethe

Roberts

Russell Ruth

Robert Utermohlen

Class of 1951 $2,362.50

William and La Vonda

Aufenkamp Abernathy

Belva Jean Hahn Albert

Evelyn Boseck Brown

Barbara Bragg Clayburn

Charles Coatney

Katherine Lutton Eagle

Robert Eilers

James Finkle

Floyd & Marjery Heim

Fithian

Margie Herold Fleskoski

Ellabeth Lotspiech Gleason

Carlos Harrison

Mary Hinrichs Kellogg

Art Majors

Teddy McCartney

Jess Ray

Class of 1945 $1,025

Marian Stover Alfrey

Edith Straube Sykes

Arlene Whisler

Armon & Evelyn Gatz

Annabelle Eis Rumbaugh

Lester & Esther Holmes

Russell

Joyce Kennedy Hutfon

Robe11 Kaiser

Robert K. Davis

Marvin & Ruth Johnson

Gerdes

Duane Grady

Tom & Patricia Sailing

Harvey Ideus Fred & Karen Fisher Braun

Leslie Armstrong James Sidney Brown LeRoy Keyt

Sharon Freeman Johnson Virginia Ferguson Burke Joseph Kirby

Janet Christensen Joyce

Floyd Kreifels

Gayle Gerber Callan Bette Coulter Knauss

Marlene Behrens Damme

Class of 1964

Hanks

Hunzeker

Stanley E. Johnson

$552.50 Julia Kreuzburg Kern

Thomas D. Aitken Robert Krofta

Jean Webb Avery Dominick Larocca

Wilma Nofsger Beer

Norma Loew

Norman Doran

Ben Duerfeldt

Marion Pratt Eilers

Mary Moore Gress

Rosina Schacht Harvey

Wendell & Patricia Lincoln

Holmes

Lee Hopp

Norma Boyer Johnson

Jean Birdsley Jones

Jerry Joyce

Marilyn Stoehr Meisinger

Mervil Miller

Carol Stutheit Minchow

Janet Kalasek Moore

Margaret Christy

Curtis Sederburg

Piper

Madge Casey Broady

Gary & Marian Schmidt

Gerald Carnes - Anderson

Margaret Ulbrick Cotton

Darrell Fischer

Janice Wiles Freeburg

Ray Handley

Deanna Thomas Humphrey

Alice Grush Johnson

Claude Johnson

Dale Johnson

Nancy Rinne Kasbohm

Wayne Minchow

Tom Moen

Marie Antalek

James Axt

Marlene Allgood Ballance

Raburn & Dixie Benton

Harry Bryant

Ronald Case

Edna Zabel Dennis

Ruth Georges Dietrich

Mildred Beamer Dry

Nora Eichenberger

Charles R. Francis

Donald Niemeier David & Rae Henry Fulton

Harlan Oestmann

Lee Ogle

Myles Pilch

Lucill Russell Hicks

Memorial

Dennis & Linda Ehlers

Leland Sherwood Hilfiker

Kay Parli Farwell

Mary Graham

Carol Buell Grote

Larry Hausman

Glenn 0. Irwin

Joan Riggle Kunde

Jerry Lunsford

Leonard McLain

Mildred Fritch Meier

Ray Meister

Lester Nelson

Sandra Pearson Ramirez

Jean Ast Rydherg

Blanche Ohering Sand

Roger Smith

Gaylin Sudik

Bruce Sweenie

James Thompson

$2,030

James Agnew

John Barton

Dan Coffey

T. Ellie Frandsen Cross

Janet Beemer DeMott

Penelope Hays Edwards

Harvey & Maddie Bleach

Fraser

Donald Glaesemann

David Gomon

Ilma Gobber

Gottula

Alvin Henrichs

Judith Beran Hetherington

Dorothy Rink Higgins

Michael Janis

Dan Leunberger

Lyle Hegendersen

Martin

Leona Ebbers Burd

Dolores Lee Clark

Jeanne Cummins

Gayle Ellison

Paul & Arlene Borcher Fell

Kay Hayes Fish

Lois Kreitzer Grote

Michael Guilliatt

Ceci Evangelist Harmon

Carol Henderson Henning

Louise Scholl Howe

George Kalil

Dermis Kennedy

Roger Lucas

Nancy Larson Lyons

Ruth Forney Marshall

Eoma Hill Masonbrink

Ron McCoy

Ann Scheitel Severin

Class of 1987

$460

Bonnie Adcox

Diana Dyer Behrends

Joni Bennett Berg

Daniel Casey

Amy Goering Clark

Jack Frary

Genelle Grossman

Nick & Laurel Smith Harling

Tedd Lamprecht

Kathie Mercure

Kristin O'Hern Miller

Mari-Ann Henry Pesek

Kevin & Theresa Tietz

Rahner

Susan Balfour Rice

Sharon Miller Van Ert

Mark Williams

Walter Williams

Class of 1988

$565.87

Jeannie Thomas Becker

Judy Vaughn Bennett

Elliot Berg

Robbin Broz

Luke Galardi

Juliann Moerer Gauchat

Robert & Tracy Grothe

Grimm

Darwin Gushard

Guy C. Herrmann

Anita Downing Hueftle

Bruce Knaak

James Larsen

Scott Vanderveen

Maxine Swett Ward

Pam Reid Williams

Mike Yates

Class of 1989

$688

Mark Bartholomew

Charles Chittum

Jon R. Clark

Robert D. Cook

Diane Beckman Denniston

Jack Dickerson

Janelle Wendelin Eastman

Leslie Mcintire Goering

Mary Shaffer Grimes

Kathie Bohling Grotrian

Patricia Haughton

Ruth Kirchhevel

Kim Klostermeier

Peggy Hall Kuser

Anne LaHood Larsen

Tracy Turner Morton

Patty Dickenson Musil

Darren Oestmann

David & Mary McAdams

Plummer

Cheryl Sejkora

Julie Dunker Tubbesing

Cherie Schreiner Welter

Vanessa Wheeler

Pamela Robison Williams

Class of 1990

$555

Ellen Wenzel Arthur

Susan Arnold Baylor

Kevin Caverzagie

Mark Gleason

Amy Henzel

Judy Mullins Hughes

Ronde! & Stephanie

Bischoff Korhclik

Bradley Martin

Bernice Jones Patterson

James R. Rains

Angelia Rohwer

Diane Miller Sands

Steve Sayer

Tina Wise Schmidt

Alan Vervaecke

Kim Vrtiska

John Welter

Class of 1991

$262.50

Ed Ankrom

Tony Anville

Jodi Hytrek Becker

Catherine Cave English

Jodene Glaesemann

Sandra Hilding

Lisa Urbauer Kuenzi

Carrie Lawrence-Guraedy

Michael Martin

Cary Petersen

Erin O'Grady Sayer

Class of 1992

$518.50

Wei Chong

Melissa Bellows Decker

Jana Ramsey Fink

Cindra Goodrich

Daryl Janicki

Todd & Cindy Wennihan Matthes

Steve Sims

Mark Stockstell

Beverly Stokebrand

Christina Stover

Dana Hughes Thompson

Cathy Wiles

Class of 1993

$1,575

Ann Jeanneret Alden

Toni Lynn Bartlett

Theresa Schuster

Baumgartner

Rodney Beyke

Susan Cade

Joanne Catlett

Diana Conradt-Mullen

Janet Lyons Cook

Jeff Cullison

Trudy Carsh Fankhauser

James Florence

Scott Hahn

Joan Hazard

Merri Johnson

Jeffrey Junker

Garrett Mann

Rebecca Martin

Deana McAlexander

George F. Olson

John Sayer

Rebecca Staley

Lynn Hicks Steinkamp

Rose Suggett

Sara Johnson Veigel

Mary Jane Williams

Class of 1994

$372.50

Robin Anderson Billings

Angela Bischoff

Peter Dennis

Larrienna Eisenbeisz

Joan Rinne Fink

Jason Fortik

Darrin Goering

Kristine Meeske Kapustka

Robert Kuhlberg

Julie Parde

Darcy Bohling Schultz

Thomas Sudik

James D. Thompson

Susan Lunzmann Unruh

Kristine Kubert Vrtiska

Class of 1995

$215

Machelle Arends

Julie Ramsey Bauman

Kimberly Beebee

Timothy Chard

Jeannettia Ford

David Gibbons

Tricia Goodman

Robert Koeneke

Jolene Scholl

Susan Urban Vint

Toni Vollmer

Troy Weil

Class of 1996

$525

Cheryl Bartels

Brad Clapper

Galen Gaddie

John Genge!

Rhonda Johnson

Susan Meyer

Thomas Proudfit

Carl J. Quijas

Mary Wenz

Class of 1997

$250

Eric Jurgensen

Jean Gibbons

Lynn Caldarulo Gibson

Holly Humm Riley

Dick Strittmatter

Callie Young

Bequests Received

$20,425.81

Alma Ashley

Helen Parker Hanika (' 17)

Clifford Harding (' 44)

Businesses

$8,853.29

Aliant Communications

American National Bank of Tecumseh

Auburn Consolidated Industries

Auburn Ford

Auburn Insurance Center

Auburn Realty

Auburn State Bank

Auburn Theater

Dr. William Bucy

Carson National Bank

Casey Witzenberg Funeral

Home

Dettmer Farm Service

Drs. Crotty & Wright

Egger Brothers, Inc.

Farm Bureau Insurance

Farmers Bank of Cook

First National Bank of Johnson

Hemmingsen Funeral Home

Hinky Dinky Pharmacy

Humphrey Motors

Jones Jewelry

Magnolia Metal

Midwest Business

UtiliCorp

Schneider OK Tire

Dr. Steve Schulte

Sixth Street Pharmacy, Inc.

The Flower Shoppe

The Machinery Station

The Wheeler Inn

Town & Country Veterinary Clinic

Triangle Pacific, Inc.

Union Bank & Trust

Faculty and Staff

$8,772.35

Anonymous

Phyllis Adams

Carolyn Bredemeier

Yvonne Chandler

William Clemente

Dan Cox

Sara Crook

Phyllis Davis

Tom Ediger

David & Malinda Edris

Richard Flynn

Peggy Groff

Judy Grotrian

Jack Hamilton

Ted Harshbarger

Janet Hawley

Jay & Linda Jacobsen

Todd & Robin Jensen

Joe Kincaid

Margareta Knopik

Daryl Long

Joel Lundak

Sharon Mccaslin

Mary Mokris

Patty Musil

Bea Patterson

David Pippert

Kent Propst

Erin Sayer

Donald Schwartz

Don Seger

Steve Sims

Dick & Nancy Strittmatter

Kathy Tynon

Ross & Susan Udey

Pam Reid Williams

Foundations/Matching Gifts

$27,934.03

Ageon USA Inc.

American Express Foundation

AmerUS Group

Becton Dickinson

The Boeing Company

Caterpillar

Eaton Charitable Fund

Enron Corporation

First Data Resources, Inc.

Harris Foundation

Mutual of Omaha

Sprint Foundation

State Farm Insurance Co.

The Principal Financial Group Foundation Inc.

Union Pacific United Parcel Service

U.S. West

Friends, Former Students, Faculty and Staff

Deb Adams

Virgil Adams

Raymond & Barbara

Baldwin

Cathy Catlett Berger

Karen Beyke

Bernadine Bixler

David Bixler

John & June Bobb

Glenna Bohling

Everett & Laurel Browning

Roger & Diane Buck

Joe & Sandra Busing

Hugh & Marcia Carman

Allan & Meredith Casey

Darrell Chandler

Mary Ann Chaney

Mr & Mrs Robert Chvatal

Alynn Cory

Don Coslor

Nancy Cox

James & Donna Damrow

Jo Davis

Gary & Marcia Ehmke

David & Jeanne Emken

Wendy Engles

Shelli Eyman

Mark & Michelle Ferguson

Jim & Marilyn Findlay

Jani Flynn

Mr & Mrs Roger Fricke

Michael & Teresa Fritz

Pamela Gerweck Frost

Bill & Lana Fulton

Roy Gfeller

Jean Gibson

Donald Glaze

Shirley Gottula

Rodney Groff

David & Debra Harders

Scott Harpster

Jeanne Hauserrnan

Margaret Hausheer

Chuck Hawley

Robert & Jeanette Heacock

John Heenan

Joe Herian

Dan Hill

Lucy Hovey

Ramonyca Howard

Danny & Linda Jackson

Mr & Mrs Steve Jacobsen

Burl & Kay Janzen

Darla Johns

Carolyn Johnson

Rick & Joyce Johnson

Sandra Kaiser

Connie Kasi

James Kearney

Mr & Mrs Mike Kemling

Mr & Mrs Paul Kemling

Harlan & Barbara King

Travis Knippelmeyer

Pamela Koch

Dennis & Pam Koso

Robert & Ruth Kratzer

Dennis & Donna

Krolikowski

Mr & Mrs John Krolikowski

Leo Krolikowski

Paul & Loretta Kruse

David Lanik

Mr & Mrs Godfrey Lanik

Nancy Steck Lavigne

Robert Leahy

Donald & Caryl Leslie

Cynthia Buss Liewer

Mardell Lind

Teresa Lockner

Wilbur & Sybil Magnuson

JoAnne Majors

Robert & Roxane Matousek

LindaMann

Paul & Charlotte Mason

Emil & Mary Mayberry

Donald & Patricia McGhee

Shelly McHugh

Letha Mcintosh

Maxine Mebus

Mr & Mrs Lloyd Mill

Joseph & Mary Millard

Mason Miller

Bud Moore

Ronald & Carol Morin

Mr & Mrs Ed Mundil

Dale Mundil

Jim Mulder

Janet & Carl Nuzman

JaNay Oestmann

Jerry & Linda Olson

Lester Pankonin

Louise Pate

Jeanne Pecha

Harold & Edna Patterson

Pawnee City Chamber of Commerce

Kathleen Pecha

Kenneth & Susan Pitz!

Mr & Mrs Thomas Pitz!

Wilma Pilger

Ralph Plihal

Mr & Mrs Gary Pope

Fred Raybourn

Janet Mastin Read

John & Peggy Reier

Don & Linda Reiman

Mr & Mrs Randy Robbins

Guy Rosenberg

Frieda Rowoldt

Ed & Joan Ryan

John Sanders

Mr & Mrs David Scheel

Mr & Mrs Eric Schepers

Mike & Marsha Schneider

Betty Schroeder

Mr & Mrs Kevin Schroder

David & Evone Schuetze

Steve Schulte

Virgil & Charlene Schultz

Bill & Bonnie Shanks

Ray & Robin Shanks

Robert & Nancy Shively

Jolene Siebels

Edwin 0. Simon

John H. Smith

Helen Sorenson

Dery! & JoAnn Sorgenfrei

Joe & Kelly Souder

Elsie Stemper

Roger & Sue Studebaker

Larry Suggett

Gary & Sharon Sullivan

Mike and Pat Taylor

Gerald D. Tharp

Tim & Lucinda Vashon

Kent Yan Zant

Ruth Van Zant

Mildred Watton

Donald Webster

Mr & Mrs Lloyd Weis

John & Suzanne Whorlow

Gil Wilson

Ardith Wininger

Phillip Wright

Doug Wymore

Arthur & Catherine Zech

lfyou gave a gift to the Peru State College Foundation in 1998 and your naine was inadver· tantly omitted, please let us know and we will. honor you in the next issue of The Peru Stater.

Don't Toss That Peru emorabilia

Each year many thoughtful alumni, or members of their families, will offer to send us Peru State memorabilia.

Yet we know that lots of Peru "treasures" find their way to the attic, the garage sale, or an even worse fate.

If you have items that you think we might make use of, please let us know. Old yearbooks, letter sweaters, pins, plates, pennants, and lots of other items may make a welcome addition either to our collection or to the local

Study Tour

Peru Historical Foundation.

Before you send something, please contact us first - we may have the same item, like that 1970 yearbook, in oversupply. But please don't throw your Peru-phernalia away without checking with us first!

Call or write Kent Propst at (402) 872-2225, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Nebraska 68421-00 I 0. We do not purchase items, but we gladly accept gifts.

1980s (continued)

Randy Fisbeck ('88) and wife Debbie of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a son born in December.

Lori Kimball Gottula ('87) of Falls City, Neb. was elected president of the Falls City Arca Chamber of Commerce for 1999.

Wendy Groves ('82) of Auburn, Neb. has adopcd a son. Dakota James. He was welcomed home by sisters Jamie, Paige and Patrice and brother Dana.

Lisa Moody Hale (attd. '87-'88) of Glenwood, Iowa received a masters degree in business administration from Creighton University in December.

Nancy Rafert Heine ('86) and husband Karl of Waco, Neb. are proud parents of twin boys, Justin and Mitchell, born in October.

Kathryn Nolte Keithly ('87) and husband Jon of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Michael Joseph, born in October. He was welcomed home by three brothers and a sister.

Craig W. Martinosky ('83) of Falls City. Neb. has been appointed an agent to represent Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, which provides insurance for auto. home. life and commercial needs.

Peg Moore ('81) of Trumbull, Neb. graduated from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in December with a bachelor of science degree in criminal justice. During the summer of l 998, Peg researched and compiled a 75 page monograph focusing on the history of alcohol. She is presently preparing for the GRE, and plans to pursue a masters in criminal justice.

Keith Mullins ('81) of Waterbury, Vt. is the new President-Elect of the Vermont Drivers Education Association.

'59ers Wanted

If you attended Peru State on or around 1959, you may recognize some of the names on the attached list. That's the good part.

The bad news is that these Peruvians all are on our "lost alumni" list. With your help, maybe we can "find" them.

We'll mail them a copy of this Peru Stater if you can provide us with a current, home address. Send it to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box I 0, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or by e-mail at propst@bobcat.peru.edu or by phone at (402) 872-2225.

Benton, Roger M. Bohn, Arva! Wendell

Bottcher, Judy (Carman)

Boyer, Keith D. Brown, Charles D.

Casey, Janet Sue

Cole, Esther M.

Dollen, Gerald J.

Eickhoff, Ervin D.

Fritch, Charles D. Gerdes, Karen (Remmers) Gibson, Diana

Gray, Donald L.

Hakel, Agnes

Heebner, Mary (Raben)

Hervey, William D. Hinds, June (Duncan) Holdorf, Peter Jr.

(Photo courtesy Dr. Kelly Asmussen)

Peru State College sponsored a criminal justice study to11r to the Central American nation o{ Costa Rica in December and Jan11ary. Here the group is shown gettillg a tour of the President's Mansion in San Jose by the First Lady of Costa Rica, Lorena Clair de Rodriguez.. At the right is former Peru State math teacher and administrator Clarence Eash, now a Costa Rica resident, who helped coordinate stops on the tour. PSC Professor Kelly Asmussen coordinated the tour, which included over 20 PSC students as well as students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Nebraska at Kearney, and Washburn University of Kansas.

Hooper, Carol A. (Tubach) Hughes, Kathryn Bullis, Elsie E. Kettman, Julia Lippold, Donald V. Head, Mary A. Moore, William H. O'Harra, Susan (Schneider) Phillips, Alice Reynolds, May Royer, Velma (Rhinehart) Schmidt, Lavelle Schreiner, Anna May Shallenberger, Dorothy Shorb, Alma Thompson, Marjorie (Thomas)

Udell, Georgianna (Quinn) Walker, Kenneth Weidenhaft, Lonnie A. Wiig, Olive J. Wineinger, Edward E.

Norma Burns Orton ('87) of LeMars, Iowa was promoted to vice president of the contract packaging sales group for Wells' Dairy. She oversees that division of Wells', including negotiation of contracts, development of new products in the area of packaging, etc. She has worked for Wells' Dairy since 1989.

Rochelle Rohlfs ('89) of Omaha led her Marian High volleyball team to the state tournament again this fall. They advanced to the semifinal round and ended the season with a 29-10 record. They finished as the number four rated team in Class A.

Scott Schmidt ('84), a Major with the U.S. Army and stationed at its U.S. European Command Headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany, has been involved in its Joint Contact Team Program. Schmidt, whose PSC degree was in accounting and business administration, manages funds for the $20 million program. That program was the subject of an extensive feature in the Washington Post this winter. Scott is married to the former Tina Wise ('90).

Loren Schrier ('87) completed a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Missouri-Columbia last summer. He has accepted a position with Cargill as a Project Chemist. He and his wife, Kelly and children Jordan, 7, and Caleb, 4, live in Fremont, Iowa.

(continued on page I 6)

Karen Burger ('83) and Robert Sinn were married in November in Lincoln, Neb. Karen works for the Ameritas Corp. there.

Patty Collins ('76) and David Gulseth are planning an April wedding in Fremont, Neb. They both reside in Overland Park, Kan. and Patty is employed with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals.

Victoria David ('96) and Daniel Sauser are planning to be married in October in Tarkio, Mo. Victoria works for the Tarkio Academy and is pursuing a Masters degree from Nova Southeastern University.

James Daubendiek ('94) of Omaha and Kay Mausbach were married in February. Jim is a sales and service representative with Interactive Communications.

Kerry Brandt ('97) and Travis Evans ('98) were married in October in Tecumseh, Neb. Kerry works at the Tarkio (Mo.) Academy.

Stacy Fitch ('98) and Jamie Stinson ('98) are planning to be married in June in Tecumseh, Neb.

Brenda L. Huber ('95) and Bobby Adkins were married in April of 1998. They live in Sabetha, Kan. Brenda is the Staff Accountant for the Sac and Fox Casino in Powhattan, Kan.

PSC students Eugene Krier and Ryan West plan to be married in April. Eugene is majoring in industrial technology education and Ryan is a

music education major.

Dan LaRose ( '97) and Dane! Heidelberg were married in October in Utah. He is teaching fifth graders at Plattsmouth, Neb.

Mark McGuire ('91) and Kimberly Blann were married in November. Mark has completed his masters degree in chemical engineering from the University of Kansas and has worked for US Filter/Davis Process Products as a sales engineer for the last five years.

Eric Musil (attd. '96-'98) of Kearney, Neb. and Kelly Donoghue were married in December. Eric is employed by Crystal Clean Carpet Care in Kearney.

Wendy Oliver ('96) and Daniel Vice ( '96) both of Auburn, Neb. were married in November. Dan is a systems analyst for Cooper Nuclear Station.

Jeff L. Reed ('97) and Danelle Pedersen are planning to be married in May. He is a probation officer working in

Play Alumni Trivia!

As more and more Peruvians log on to the World Wide Web, we want to remind you that it's not only a tool for work and study. (As if you didn't already know that).

Be sure to check out the Peru State College website (www.peru.edu). Scope out the "Alumni & News" section, post a message in the guestbook, and take a few moments to play the Alumni Trivia Contest.

Each month we post a new multiple-choice question pertaining to Peru State. From each correct answer, we draw one winner who gains a prize compliments of the Bobcat Bookstore.

It's easy and it's fun. Play it today!

Lincoln for the State of Nebraska.

Jaclyn Pingel ('98) of Peru, Neb. and Scott Anderson were married in December. Jaclyn received a BS degree in Biology, and Scott is employed by Sodexho Marriott Services at Peru State as an Assistant Manager of the campus food service operation.

PSC . student Mickala Svatora and Ryan Sjulin of Hamburg, Iowa were married this past November.

Brian Wiechmann (attd. '95-'96) of Beatrice, Neb. and Julie Petracek were married in February. Brian is employed by the Union Pacific Railroad.

Bookstore

On-Line

Quite often alumni of Peru State College express an interest in buying PSC sweatshirts, t-shirts, caps and other items carried by the Bobcat Bookstore, but they aren't able to come to campus to shop.

Deb Adams, manager of the Bookstore, reminds Peruvians they can call or e-mai I for more information and Bookstore staff will be happy to handle the order.

They'll describe items currently available in the Bookstore in the size and style you want. Have your credit card handy.

The phone number for the Bobcat Bookstore is (402) 872-2254, or e-mail them at: bookstore@ bobcat. peru .edu

Happy shopping, and wear your Peru gear with pride!

1980s (continued)

Ann Scheitel Severin ('86) of Falls City, Neb. was elected President of the local Jaycees chapter for 1999. Ann is a teacher at Falls City Sacred Heart Public Schools.

Julie Nanninga Showalter ('88) and husband Jonathan of Oakland, Iowa are proud parents of a daughter, Morgan Elizabeth, born in December. She was welcomed home by a sister Victoria.

Randy Svoboda ('89) has been appointed Personal Banker at the U.S. Bank facility in David City, Neb., his hometown.

Mike Voigtman ('85) and his wife Shaye of Plattsmouth, Neb. are proud parents of son Connor Joseph, born this past December. Connor has two brothers.

Kurt Wiedel ('87) of Hebron, Neb. led his Class C-2 volleyball team to the state tournament this fall. Although they were defeated in the first round of the tournament, they ended the season as the sixth ranked team with a 19-8 record.

Teresa Bohling Zulauf ('87) and husband Douglas of Pickrell, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Andrea Maree, born in October.

1990s

John Ballue ('95) has been appointed building inspector for the community of Nebraska City, where he lives with his wife the former KelJey Combs ('85) and their family.

Laura Bando ('98) is working as a treatment counselor for Orchard Place in Des Moines, Iowa.

Julie Ramsey Bauman ('95) of Falls City, Neb. placed first at the District Convention for Business and Professional Women's Young Careerist competition this fall. Julie presented a speech on the advancement for women in the workplace and the importance of mentors. She will compete at the State Convention in April.

Tonia Boller ('98) is teaching science at Hays, Kan. this year.

Cheryl Mellage Brown ('97) and husband Bruce of Shubert, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Brandee DeAnn, born in December.

John Carlson ('95) is teaching social studies and in the at-risk program at Mishicot (Wis.) High School. He had been teaching in Green Bay, Wis.

Kent Chase ('97) is now working for Structural Components Systems in Fremont, Neb.

Lisa Connolly ('94) and Roger Abrahams of Chesterton, Ind. are proud parents of a daughter, Jessica Kay, born in October.

Melissa Lytle Creek ('94) and husband John of Wymore, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Luke Raymond, born in January.

Jaime R. Davila ('98) is a satellite operator for the United States Air Force at its Buckley ANG Base in Aurora, Colo.

(continued on page 17)

Peru Loses Two Former Professors, Coaches

Dr. Erv Pitts Leaves Legacy

One of the most beloved figures in Peru State College sports and physical education history, Dr. Erv Pitts, passed away in January. He had been retired and living in Bella Vista, Ark. and was 78.

Pitts actually served two stints at Peru State. During the 1953-54 year he was assistant football and basketball coach, head track coach, taught, and directed the intramural program.

He left after that year to teach and coach on the collegiate level in South Dakota for several years. He later served his alma mater, the University of Missouri, and worked at Southeast Missouri State University before returning to Peru State in 1964.

Pitts came back as Head of the PE Division, Athletic Director and Head Football Coach. From 1964 until his retirement in 1982, he contributed to the college in a variety of capacities.

He was at one time or another Vice President for Business and Public Affairs, head and assistant football coach, head track coach, head golf coach, head cross country coach, interim head men's basketball coach, and interim head women's basketball coach, along with teaching and division chairmanship duties.

A Kansas native who served in the Pacific Theater with the U.S. Navy during World War II, Pitts was born in Kansas and attended Coffeyville Junior College where he was a standout foot-

JPeJflfilvii 1ID;n

1990s (continued)

Derrick Dea ('91) and wife Sherry of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter born in January.

Steve DeFreece ('93) and wife Paula of Tecumseh, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Schyler Ashley, born in November. Steve works at the Johnson County Hospital in Tecumseh where he is an assistant in surgery as well as doing maintenance work.

Spencer Duncan ('97) is a graduate assistant at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville, Mo.

Jennifer Dunn ('98) is a substitute teacher in the Raymore-Peculiar and Lee's Summit school districts, both in Missouri.

ball player. He was recruited by the University of Missouri, and quarterbacked the Tigers in 1941 and '42, leading them to a berth in the Sugar Bowl.

Pitts also played baseball and track at Missouri, where he received bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees.

Erv Pitts is survived by his wife, longtime Peru elementary school teacher Harmony of Bella Vista, Ark. They had two sons, Dr. Tom ('72) of Brookfield, Mo. and Dr. Terry of Lincoln. He is warmly remembered by his colleagues and former students.

PSC Bids Farewell To Tom Fitzgerald

Dr. Tom Fitzgerald, a longtime physical education professor and coach at Peru State, died of cancer in November. The Omaha resident was 68. Fitzgerald held a variety of positions at Peru State from 1967-85, including Professor

of Physical Education, Athletic Director, Chair of the Physical Education division, intramural director, head baseball coach, assistant football coach, and assistant track and cross country coach.

After leaving Peru State, he worked in the crop insurance field for the rest of his career, but maintained close contact with many of his fellow Peru State faculty and staff and with many former students.

Fitzgerald received his bachelors degree from the University of Missouri, a masters from Emporia (Kan.) State, and an Ed.D. from the University of NebraskaLincoln.

Survivors include wife Joan, a former member of the PSC support staff; son and daughter-in-law Bill ('78) and Anne Oestmann ('78) Fitzgerald of Louisville; and daughters Kim and J. Kent ('79) Knoll of Omaha, Peggy and Bill Clark of Dothan, Ala., and Cindy and Scott Allgood of Lincoln.

Tifill Memorilcatm

lShirley Rhineshart Ach (attd. '59-'60) of Friend, Neb. passed away in December.

Sandra West Allgood (twoyear '57) of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in November. She was a retired receptionist for Family Physicians in Nebraska City. Family members include a daughter, Dara Kirkbride ('81), of Medicine Lodge, Kan.

V. Edward Arnold (attd. '38-'40) of Falls City, Neb.

passed away in January. After moving back to Falls City in 1946, he worked for Armbruster Motors and Edde Motors. He became the owner of Eddy Motors in 1979. Ed was active in many organizations in Falls City.

Adelaide Prokop Bernica ('22) of Pleasant Hill, Calif. passed away in December. She enjoyed attending the California alum meetings with her sister, Irene Prokop ('25).

Paul W. Blount ('35) of

Yakima, Wash. passed away in October.

Mary Reschke Cashman's ('42) husband Samuel passed away in September. They were both educators in the Kansas City area. Mary resides in Merriam, Kan.

Connie Duncan (attd. '89'91) of Unadilla, Neb. passed away in November. She was employed in customer relations at Carol Wright in Lincoln, Neb. and also was a paralegal.

(Continued on Page 18)

Diane Durman ('98) and John Motto of Topeka, Kan. are proud parents of twin sons, Tanner Anthony and Chase Alan, born in October.

Yalana Edelman ('98) is teaching six grade at Sts. Peter & Paul School in Seneca, Kan.

Brandi Ellis Erickson ('98) is working at Peru State College as an Admissions Counselor.

Linda Estes ('95), the former PSC college nurse, is the new program director for the Greene House assisted living facility in Seward, Neb.

Michael Everley ('98) is Information Systems Manager for National Crane Corp. in Waverly, Neb.

Tim Friese} ('93) and wife Dawn of Pawnee City, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Abby Mae, born in December.

Jill Grancer ('91) is working for Gold's Fitness at a facility in North Carolina.

December '98 grad Stefanie Grewe is the assistant girls' basketball coach at Southeast Consolidated in Stella, Neb.

Jennifer L. Hamann ('97) is assistant customer accounts manager for On Campus Manager in Fairfax, Va.

IJeff Hebner ('90) recently moved to Wichita Falls, Texas where he is teaching heating/ventilation/air conditioning to National Guard students. He is still in the U.S. Air Force.

Frank Lawrence Hollier ('97) is residential case manager for The Restitution Center in Greeley, Colo. He was honored as their Employee of the Quarter for the third quarter of 1998. Lawrence joined the Center in June 1997.

Jerome F. Hopkins Jr. ('97) is a management trainee for First National Bank of Omaha.

Lori Land ('93) is now teaching first graders at the Culbertson (Neb.) Elementary school.

Chad Larson ('98) is an insurance salesman for Palmtag Inc. of Nebraska City, Neb.

Trevor Longe ('98) is teaching geography at Millard (Neb.) South High School.

(continued on page J8)

Dr. Erv Pitts

Dr. Tom Fitzgerald

Standout Educator Dr. Jim Perdue Dies in Colorado

Dr. Jim Perdue, who enjoyed a long, illustrious career in education, passed away in November at his home in Fort Morgan, Colo. He was 82.

Perdue was born and raised in nearby Auburn and graduated from Peru State in 1937. He later earned a Masters degree from the University of North Colorado and his Ph.D. frQm Stanford.

He taught in Nebraska and Colorado early in his career, served in the U.S. Navy during the second World War, and then spent 19 years at the University of Denver.

At U.D. he held a variety of teaching and administrative posts, the last being Dean of

the College of Arts and Sciences.

From there Dr. Perdue was named President of the State University of New YorkOswego, a post he held for 12 years. Dr. Perdue was later promoted to Vice Chancellor fot Academic Programs, Policy and Planning, for the State University of New York system and remained there from I 977-81 until retiring from full-time work.

Dr. Perdue was a 1966 recipient of Peru State College's Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor the institution can present. It was one of a lengthy list of awards accorded to Dr. Perdue.

Kim Mceme0>ricamml

(From Page 17)

Marie Parli Elmore (attd. summers '27 & '29) of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in December. She taught in elementary schools in Richardson County (Neb.), and worked in the Otoe · County treasurer's office for l 6 years. A son, Richard ('64), lives in Nebraska City.

Frederick J. Fankhauser (attd. '34-'36) of Humboldt, Neb. passed away in November.

Eddie Garner (attd. '33'35) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in December. He was founder and president of Gamer Industries. He taught at Milford Trade School and was also a band leader from 1940-1980.

Harriett Kingsolver Goshorn ('34) of Neligh, Neb. passed away in December. She was a retired teacher and taught English and history for many years in Brock, Shelby and Stanton - all in Nebraska. She was also active in community organizations.

Word has been received of the death of Elizabeth Collings Grant ('13) of Herman, Minn.

William "Bill" Hauser ('34) of Bedford, Ind. passed away in November. He was retired from the Prentice-Hall Co. after enjoying a teaching career for many years.

viui!l

1990s (continued)

Rhonda Lotter ('98) is a document control analyst for the Nebraska Public Power District's Cooper Nuclear Station near Brownville Neb.

Monta A. Mackey ('98) is working for Omni Behavioral Health in Omaha as an intensive family preservation specialist.

Kevin and Juliane Lee ('98) Miller of Pella, Iowa are proud parents of a daughter, Evin Elizabeth born in December. She was welcomed home by a sister Madison. Kevin is a former assistant football coach at PSC.

Lisa Barrett Miller ('98) is working for Leach Camper Sales in Lincoln, Neb. as a purchase agent and assistant financial manager.

Karen Mullen Palazzola ('98) is working in the Gretna (Neb.) Public Schools. She plans to attend graduate school this summer.

Fern Ellen Ahrens Hay ('36) passed away in December in Trenton, Neb. She was a teacher and school administrator in southwest Nebraska.

Harriett Beattie Hondros ('36) of Tabor, Iowa passed away in November in that community. She taught in several Iowa communities.

Leahdora Bovey Hunsberger ('31) of Round Rock, Texas passed away in October. She was a former school teacher in the Grand Island, Neb. area. She was also director of child welfare departments in Lincoln, Hastings and Grand Island. Her twin sister, Doraleah Hyland ('28), lives in Lincoln, Neb.

Ruby Pickens Kirkman ('14), one of Peru State's oldest surviving alums, passed away in January. She had lived in Benkelman, Neb. since 1916. Her funeral services were conducted by Rev. Michael Davis ('76).

Letha Gentry Keri' (attd. '28, diploma '31, cert. '35) of Pawnee City, Neb. passed away in November.

Georgia Klasek ('50) of Phoenix, Ariz. passed away last July. Georgia was an education major and very interested in phonics and improvement in the teaching of readmg.

Vera Nash Larson ('35) of Syracuse, Neb. passed away in November. She taught in rural schools and also elementary school at Palmyra and Bennet (Neb.).

Ruth Bateman Linscott (attd. '26-'28) of Beatrice, Neb. passed away in October.

LeRoy Loew (attd. summers '60, '61) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in November. He was a business education teacher and taught at Diller and Tecumseh (Neb.) High Schools. His wife, Norma, is a 1966 grad.

Bernard Lorimor ('64) of Tabor, Iowa passed away in December. He farmed near Tabor for many years.

Louise M. Bogott Lovitt (attd. summers '23 & '26) of Hebron, Neb. passed away in December. She taught in Johnson County, Wauneta (Neb)., and Crab Orchard (Neb.). A daughter, Ruth ('50) and LaVern ('SI) Poppe live in Hebron.

Evelyn Hurley Mather (summers '50s and '60s, bachelors '66) of Sidney, Iowa passed away in December. She was an elementary school teacher for many years in schools in southwest Iowa, northwest Missouri and in Bellevue, Neb.

(Continued on Page 22)

Shirley Ann Parde ('98) is working for Southeast Community College in Beatrice, Neb. as a Continuing Education coordinator and nursing secretary.

Amber Hypse Schuetz ('97) is substitute teaching for a school district in Sabetha, Kan.

Ken Sillman ('90) of Beatrice, Neb. was NATE-certified last October. Ken is owner of Custom Climate Control in Beatrice and the certification program tests technicians in the areas of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration.

Dan Sinkhorn ('98) is now teaching in the Fairfax, Mo. school district. -

William "Robbie" Sipple ('98) is working for Communication Construction, Inc. of Hamburg, Iowa.

Chuck Smith ('94) of Falls City, Neb. has accepted a position as Lifeskills aide in the Falls 'City Elementary Schools. Chuck also works part-time as a radio announcer for KTNC in Falls City.

Patricia Stucky ('98) is working as an economic specialist for the State of Kansas, and is based out of an office in Hiawatha.

Aaron Taylor ('98) is teaching physical education for the Bellevue (Neb.) Public School system.

Marty Thomas ('98) is an International Marketing specialist for the Hach Co. in Loveland, Colo.

John Tiedt ('97) is employed by the Nebraska State Department of Revenue as a revenue operations clerk.

Tait Whorlow ('98) of Norfolk, Neb. was an assistant coach for the Norfolk Catholic Knights Class C-1 football team which earned a berth in the football playoffs this fall. They ended their season with a 13-0 record and ranked number one in Class C-1.

IDr. Jim Perdue

'Mystery Picture' Sleuths Clean Up; Who Can Determine Our 'May Fete'?

We cleaned up on our last "Mystery Picture."

Response to the photo of the Basketball Bathing Beauties was outstanding. And while not every detective was I 00 percent correct as to the identification of these 1949-50 cagers, all of our guessers got at least one person correct.

Those who guessed correctly on all of the players (note: several of our sleuths said this photo can be found on page 57

Be Mysterious!

We are interested in and would welcome submission of new candidates for our "Mystery Pictures." The names of the participants need not be a mystery to you. If you would like to submit a photo for consideration as a Mystery Picture, send it to Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 684210010.

Be sure to put your name & address on the back of the photo. We'll return it if you request it, but bear in mind it may be awhile before we get to it (we only use tqree per year).

18 from '74

Of all of the classes listed in our alumni roster, the Class of '74 is a distinguished one.

It has among the fewest "lost alumni" on that dreaded list.

Just 18 Peru Staters were once on our mailing list but have fallen by the wayside.

Odds are, we won't find all of them and therefore make '74 the only class to be all present and accounted for - but we would like to trim the list even farther if possible.

Do you have a current, home address on any of the following?

If so, send the information to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O.

Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421 or e-mail him at propst@bobcat.pern.edu or call (402) 872-2225.

Anstey, Dean Christman, Ronald W. Craft, Roger Doxon, Joanne (Grosserode) Griffin, Penny Hillman, Cindy Hunter, William Jackson, Charles Jubinville, David Kelly, Michael L. McLaughlin, Patty Montague, Ananias Nather, Ziyad Rakes, Merle K. Schofield, William A. Siems, Dennis V. Stukenholtz, Anna M. Symancyk, Jerome D.

of the 1950 "Peruvian") include:

Don Bornschlegl ('53) of Scottsbluff, Neb.; Sid Brown ('59) of Batavia, III.; Phyllis Parriott Comstock ('53) of Ralston, Neb.; Bill Cummins ('51) of Fairbury, Neb.; Dr. Paul Gilbert (Coach 1949-53) of Ft. Collins, Colo.; Elaine Brier Gleason ('48) of Lincoln, Neb.; Don Gress

('52) of Lenexa, Kan.; Jack Hallstrom ('50) of Omaha; Carlos Harrison ('51) of San Mateo, Calif.; WiHard Redfern ('49) of La Mirada, Calif.; Wilbur Scheitel ('52) of Nashville, Tenn.; Ken Sipes ('52) of Osceola, Neb.; Bill Thurman ('51) of Nebraska City, Neb.; and Fran Heim Whited ( '53) of Newport, Ore.

Many players

Other detectives who were able to ID one or more of the Bobcats were Keith Albers ('47) of Red Cloud, Neb.; Loyd "Bitzie" Buettgenbach ('51) of LaPine, Ore.; Dave Duey ('51) of Silverdale, Wash.; Mary Hinrichs

Kellogg ('51, '72) of Nebraska City; Ernest Strauss ('47) of Prescott Valley, Ariz.; August

"Augie" Thomas (attd. '49'51) of Western, Neb.; and Arlene Lindsay Whisler of Peru, Neb.

The identity, of course, of these members 1949-50 NCC champions coached by PSC Hall of Farner Newt Kyle is the late Merle "Hoot" Bauer, Omer Meeker of Carson City, Nev., George "Bob" Eilers of San Diego, Calif., Don Bornschlegl of Scottsbluff, Neb., and Bill "Vossen from Dawson" of Falls City, Neb. Wins & fun

That squad posted a 22-6 record and took part in the national tournament in Kansas City, Mo. As Bornschlegl noted in a recent letter, "We had a lot of wins and a lot of t " un.

Special thanks to Norris Hale ('51) of Pella, Iowa for submitting the photograph!

For this month's '"Mystery Picture," we came up with this photo of a group of co-eds identified only as a part of the May Fete in the 1960s.

If you can ID them, please forward the information to: Kent Propst, c/o "Mystery Picture," Peru State College, PO Box I 0, Peru, Neb. 68421, or call (402) 872-2225, oremail him at: propst@bobcat.peru.edu

Women's Hoops Still Aimed For National Tournament

With aspirations of a national tournament berth. the Peru State women's basketball team knows the remaining path looks tough. They feel they are prepared to finish the season strong.

The Bobcats were 13- 7 through the first 20 games this season. But coach Tara Kreklau hopes the tough scheduling pays off in the end.

"This team is beating the teams it should beat but for us to achieve our goal to be a Top 20 basketball team we need to secure a few wins against some of the well established Top 20 teams we play."

The Bobcats have come close to nailing down some key wins. They lost to NAIA Division I No. 8 Montana State-Northern 72- 70 at the Bahamas Shootout earlier this season. They also lost 78- 71 to Hastings, which has been ranked as high as No. 9 in Division II.

Senior Celeste Nolte (Falls City, Neb.) has Jed the Bobcats on the floor. Her 16.7 points and 7 .3 rebounds a game are

among the best in the region. She is also shooting 57 percent from the floor and if continued will set the record for career field goal percentage.

Against Grand View earlier in the season she became only the tenth Bobcat to score 1,000 points in her career. Junior DeeAnn Richardson (Tecumseh, Neb.) is giving the Bobcats a boost from the outside. She is averaging 12.2 points and 3.0 assists a contest.

Now the Bobcats are focused on the remaining regular season. "I believe the remainder of the regular season will prepare us for the post-season tournaments. We have some key games in our final stretch," Kreklau said.

"We know when we play the regional tournament we have to go through three teams ranked in the Top 20. This group will not be satisfied with just making it to the regional championship game," Kreklau added. "They want to win it."

Driving Hard

As the women's basketball team drives toward a hoped-for spot

are using a balanced attack from the inside and the

leader for the squad. She is averaging about five points

Softball looks to use experience, attitude

The Peru State softball preseason is filled with three things: excitement, optimism and attitude.

Excitement because six of the eight defensive positions are filled by returners. Optimism because the Cats know if they perform strong all season they can reach the regional tournament.

And attitude because, according to Coach Mark Mathews, the first step in achieving is believing.

Mathews said this year's squad is more athletic than last year's 18-21 Bobcat team, and in fact "This is the most athletic team I have ever had at Peru."

On the pitching rubber the Cats return senior Melanie Tramp (Lincoln, Neb.). She appeared in 27 games a year ago and led the Cats with a 138 record. Her 13 victories is the fourth highest in school history while her 81 strikeouts last season is the second highest single season mark.

Mathews said Tramp brings lots of experience and a combination of power and control. "Melanie has the ability to control a game. If she wants

to she can be the best NAIA pitcher in the state. She can be overpowering but is learning to be a total pitcher."

Three others will likely see time on the rubber for the Cats. Sophomore Krystal Northouse (Norfolk, Neb.) transferred to Peru and will give the Bobcats more experience. Freshmen Stacie Sell (Glenwood, Iowa) and Tara James (Omaha) will fill the staff. Mathews said the trio doesn't rely on power.

"Krystal, Stacie and Tara depend on the defense behind them. All three work the plate well," he said.

The pitchers will have experience behind the plate to work with. Sophomores Selene Cotton (North Platte, Neb.) and Sommer Miller (Omaha) split time in the gear a year ago and look to be solid offensively for the Cats.

"Both Sommer and Selene are very steady behind the plate and their offense will be a positive," he said.

Freshman Becky Fletcher (Grant City, Mo.) will supply the Cats additional backup when she joins the squad after basketball season.

Around the infield the Bobcats look solid. At first base sophomore Ann Mornin (Omaha) returns. She led the Cats in batting average and fielding percentage a year ago. Mathews said she may be one of the best he has ever coached at that position.

"She is outstanding defensively," he said. "She is a team leader with her bat and glove. But according to her standards her batting is still sub-par. I am excited to see what she brings this year."

At second base the Cats return sophomore Crystal Mahoney (Tecumseh, Neb.). Mahoney led the Bobcats with 23 stolen bases last season. Mathews said this position could be platooned with freshman Sammy Robinson (Omaha) and Northouse.

Sophomore Sara Roberts (Omaha) is slated to be the Bobcats shortstop after redshirting a year ago. Mathews said he was looking forward to having Sara on the field this season. "Sara is the total athlete with sound fundamentals. She has strong knowledge of the game."

Three freshman will vie for

the third base position. Tonya Waldschmidt (Littleton, Colo.), James and Fletcher will all compete for playing time.

Mathews said they are all solid. "Tonya hits well from both sides of the plate. If Tara finds her groove she can be strong offensively. Becky will be behind because she is on the basketball squad. When she starts practicing she will have to catch up but will supply us with a quality player."

The outfield is stacked with veterans. Seniors Krissy Tatum (Kearney, Neb.) and Amy Bachle (Daykin, Neb.) join sophomores Missy Miller (Omaha) and Mahoney to anchor the outfield.

Mathews will be relying on Tatum and Bachle to supply leadership. "Krissy brings years of experience and knowledge. I am challenging her to remain consistent throughout the whole season.

"Amy is an outstanding athlete and she is still learning the position. She is getting better everyday. She is a serious threat on the bases. Amy needs to become more disciplined at the plate to get her on base."

Miller will be penciled in right field for the Cats. "Missy is a very consistent ball player," Mathews said. "She can hit on both sides effectively."

Mathews said Mahoney could find her way into the outfield if someone is struggling. "Crystal has too much athletic talent to leave on the bench."

Two freshmen will fill utility roles for the Cats. Bobbie Dorou (Fort Calhoun, Neb.) and Ricki Hastings (Schuyler, Neb.) can play anywhere, according to Mathews.

The Bobcats will be challenged by a difficult qualifying process for the regional tournament. Mathews said the Bobcats must do well from the start.

"We have to have an attitude that we must win every game to get into regionals. We have to get an at-large berth to get in so we have to impress people from the start.

"Our schedule is filled with many teams that were rated in the Top 25 a year ago," Mathews said. "We are going to be challenged every time we take the field."

in the NAIA National Tournament, the 'Cats

perimter. Senior Angela Stiens (#22) has been a floor

and 2.2 assists a contest. (Photo by Tony Koso)

Basieball prepares to use experience, speed in '99

Last year's 7-40 record gave the Peru State baseball team a lot of incentive in preparation for the 1999 season. Secondyear Coach Mark Bayliss said he expects many improvements this season.

"We have worked hard this off-season to prepare ourselves," he said. "The dedication the guys gave by running and working in the weight room should give us benefits on the field. It has added to our team chemistry and has unified our squad."

The Bobcats enter the season after a successful 7-1 fall campaign. They hope to translate the confidence gained into wins this spring.

According to Bayliss, Peru's pitching staff probably has seen the most improvement. Senior Kris Mathews (Benkelman, Neb.) and junior Lance Kurz (Palmer, Neb.) return and should key the Bobcat rotation.

Mathews was 4- 7 a year ago with a 9.39 ERA. Kurz had a 1- 7 record and held a 9.80 ERA. Bayliss said they will provide stability in the rotation.

Sophomore Wes Haveman (Shubert, Neb.) returns to the diamond after taking a year off for spring football a year ago. In 1997 he appeared in 13 games and registered a 3. 77 ERA. Freshmen Derek Dallerto (St. Albert, Alberta) and Zenon Popil (Edmonton, Alberta) will also be penciled into the rotation this spring.

Other pitchers Bayliss said should give the Bobcats quality outings are sophomores Jamie Mccarville (Lincoln, Neb.) and Jim Lovely (Pacific Junction, Iowa) and freshman Derek Cockroft (Ft. Saskatchewan, Alberta).

Junior Tim Sealock (Lincoln, Neb.) returned to Peru after a one-year absence and will give the Bobcats a solid catcher, according to

Bayliss. "Tim provides leadership on the field with our pitching staff. Not only will he lead behind the plate but will be a vital part of our offense."

There will be some old faces at new positions around the infield this season. Junior Brendan Raybourn (Bellevue, Neb.) has moved to play first base this season. Bayliss said Raybourn will lead by example on the field.

"Brendan will be solid at first base, especially offensively. He will be one of our top hitters," Bayliss said.

Bayliss will establish a platoon at second base early in the year. Junior John Chess (Lincoln, Neb.) and freshman Ben Kassera (Omaha) will both see time on the right side of the infield. "Both John and Ben are sound defensive players and both handle the bat extremely well," Bayliss said.

Senior Chris Solaita (Pago Pago, American Somoa) will return to the shortstop position. Bayliss believes Solaita's success defensively will be a key for the Bobcats' success in '99. Popi! could also see action at shortstop when not on the mound.

At third base, the Bobcats are leaning on freshman Monte Scott (Calgary, Alberta). Bayliss has confidence Scott will step in and have success.

"Monte is a solid defensive player," Bayliss asserted. "He handled the bat well in the fall and has been improving since."

Senior Scott Douglas (Phoenix, Ariz.) will provide backup at any of the infield positions.

Plenty of experience decorates the outfield. Junior Ted Lipari (Bellevue, Neb.) returns to left field. He led the 'Cats with a .347 batting average a year ago. He was slowed by knee surgery in the fall but should be close to I 00 percent by the first game this spring, according to Bayliss.

"Lipari's batting and speed will be a key for us," Bayliss said. "We hope he will see the field everyday and provide us with some punch at the plate and speed on the bases."

Senior Seth Perkins (Harvard, Neb.) anchors the outfield from his center field position. Bayliss said Perkins adds a dimension for the 'Cats.

"Seth provides a lot of cov-

erage in the outfield," he not. "He is an offensive spark plug for us and will bat in the leadoff spot. He is only 26 stolen bases away from the career record so we expect him to put himself in position to break that mark."

gained last year and the successful off-season program Bayliss isn't expecting a stellar campaign. "We are still improving. In reality we will probably finish around .500 but that isn't a bad thing. We are still a young team and are getting better every day." In right field Bayliss plans Even with the experience

Hit the Diamond

to platoon sophomore Scott Macholan (Norfolk, Neb.) and freshman Scott Campau (Calgary, Alberta). According to Bayliss they both will see a lot of action in right field and will backup the other outfield positions.

The Peru State College baseball squad is anxious to hit the diamond this spring. This year the 'Cats hope to use their speed and experience to improve upon last season's 7-40 record. Junior first baseman Brendan Raybourn, pictured above with Assistant Coach Greg Wolfe, returns as part of an experienced defense that should lead the Bobcats to better things.

Men's Basketball Breaks Drought

After suffering the worst start in school history, the Peru State mens basketball squad is bound and determined to prove they aren't giving up.

After starting the season on a 17-game skid, the men's basketball team hopes to use the home court as an advantage going into the last stretch.

The youthful Cats, who don't have any player with more than one season of college basketball experience, took a while to get out of the gate. The Bobcats slow start of the season was expected by Coach John Gibbs.

"We knew going into the season this was going to be rough. I am just happy for the kids the monkey is now off their backs," he said.

The monkey jumped off on January 9 when PSC defeated Grand View (Iowa) 6968 in the Wheeler Center. The win, which broke a 23-game skid dating back to February, 1998, also gave Gibbs his 251 st career win, the most of any Bobcat basketball coach.

According to Gibbs the Cats' are feeling relieved. "With the youth on this team, we needed a boost. They weren't enjoying getting beat every night."

Gibbs said he is proucl of the desire his team has to improve. "This is the hardest working group I have ever had and the experience they are gaining each game and practice is finally paying off."

This season the Bobcats have been led by sophomore center Dan Stoakes (Omaha) with 10.3 points and 4.6 rebounds a contest. Freshman forward B.J. Winton (Jackson, Neb.) is also.knocking in 9.1 points a game. The Bobcats, who played 14 of our first 17 games this season on the road, enjoyed a nine:-game home stand. At press time, the Bobcats won two of the first three games of the stretch.

"I am still looking for us to improve this season. We are not only looking to reap the benefits the rest of this season but for the next few years," he said. "This group is going to be fun to watch."

(Photo by Chris Erickson)

lleyball ive Stud

Peru State volleyball coach Todd Jensen knows the Bobcats didn't end their volley bal I season the way his team wanted to last year. It looks like the disappointment on the court didn't affect the squad's work in the classroom.

The Bobcats squad finished the season 23-1 8 on the court but scored a 3.509 team Grade

I ntre It Count th letes Perfect

Point Average, the best since Jensen took over the program in 1996.

The varsity squad bettered the whole team, slating a 3.542 GPA. Five student-athletes found report cards with perfect 4.00 marks: senior Carrie Leong (Honolulu, Hawaii), junior ReeAnna Morgan (Lincoln), sophomore Sarah

LeGresley (Lawrence, Kan.), sophomore Randi Mayberry (Nebraska City) and freshman Amanda Kemling (Aurora). Jensen was elated to find out the squad's results. "I am very pleased the team put that commitment into academics as well as their work on the court last fall," he said.

"I think the players really

understand the importance we have stressed between academics and athletics.

"To have five players record a 4.0 GPA is an honor to the program for the effort and dedication they have put into it," Jensen said. "We need to find a way to translate the success in the classroom to the court next fall."

Alumni Football Set Again For April

After last year's exciting Alumni Football Weekend, the event has been scheduled again this spring.

On April 24-25 many football alumni will don the ol' blue and white once again as they square off in the Oak Bowl against the Bobcat varsity team.

Last year over 60 form er Bobcat players returned and many had asked for a rematch this spring.

But you don't have to play to be a part of the weekend. Everyone relished in the excitement whether as a player, a coach or a spectator.

Plan now to attend and encourage your teammates to return for a memorable event. An initial mailing was sent in January to notify former football players of the date.

Volleyball, Football Fade in the Stretch

After strong starts, both the Peru State football and volleybal I squads were optimistic about post-season play. Both saw their seasons end earlier than expected.

VOLLEYBALL

The Peru State volleyball squad looked to be hitting on all cylinders going down the final stretch. But a loss earlier in the season kept the Bobcats from hosting a regional match, a road contest that turned out to be the Cats' final match of the season.

The Bobcats won seven of their last nine games this season and finished with a 23-18 record. Winning the NAIA Independent Sectional Tournament on their home court, the Bobcats were only three wins away from the National Tournament.

But a loss to Midwest Region rival William Woods (Mo.) late in October knocked the Bobcats out of the region's top four and sent them traveling in the first round of the Regional Tournament.

The Cats visited Graceland

(Iowa) in the opening round and lost to the Yellow Jackets in three games, ending the Bobcats' season. Coach Todd Jensen characterized the season as a disappointment.

"Every year our goal is to make it to the National Tournament. If we don't make it, it is very disappointing."

Jens en was pleased with individual play of several players, but felt the squad's lack of dedication, effort and consistency led to their early ending.

"When it came to playing as a team, we were like an outhouse in mid-July. We just stunk," was Jensen's forthright assessment.

Six Bobcats gained postseason honors. Senior Kendra Jacobsen (Hampton, Neb.) was named First Team All-Independent Section, First Team All-Midwest Region and Honorable Mention AllAmerican. Freshman Janelle Findlay (Stella, Neb.) was named First Team AllIndependent Section and Second Team All-Midwest Region.

Sophomore Randi Mayberry (Nebraska City) and senior Carrie Leong (Honolulu) both were named First Team All-Independent Section. Leong was also named Honorable Mention All-Midwest Region.

FOOTBALL

After six games the Bobcats were 4-2 and receiving votes in the NAIA Top 25. Then the season turned south as they dropped their final three games to finish a disappointing 4-5.

The Bobcats lost all consistency according to head coach Dick Strittmatter. "On the offensive side of the ball, we weren't able to do anything. Our lack of depth at key positions was evident. We were missing some ingredients to get the wins.

"I don't know what those ingredients were and right now that is in the past. Now we have to get our team ready for next season."

This spring is when the Bobcats plan to rebuild for

next year. The Bobcats have begun spring conditioning which includes time in the weight room and running. They will hit the field for spring ball in March.

"We hope to come out of spring ball with more mental and physical toughness," Strittmatter said. "You get that by having hard work in the weight room and on the practice field."

The Bobcats open their '99 campaign with home games against Doane (Sept. 4) and Hastings (Sept. 11 ).

If you didn't receive information, call Kent Propst in the alumni office at (402) 872-2225 to be placed on the football alumni list.

Advance registration will be required in order to play, so call right away.

Julie Kernes New Trainer

Julie Kernes joined Peru State last fall as the head certified athletic trainer. She also teaches physical education classes.

Kernes, a Julian native, received her athletic training certificate in 1994 from the University of NebraskaLincoln.

She traveled to the University of Oklahoma for her graduate work. For the Sooners she worked with football, wrestling and men's and women's basketball. She received her Masters degree in sports management.

If the last name sounds familiar, it should. Her mother is Mary Beth Kernes ('68) of Julian and her father is the late Ben Kernes ('64).

Amanda Kemling

Carrie Leong

Ra11di Mayberry

ReeA11na Morgan

I mm I Find Them, Quickly!

(From Page 18)

Esther L. Jose Mitzner (attd. summer '45) of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in November. She taught in rural schools for a short time and then worked at Gambles Furniture Store and American Meter in Nebraska City. She was also active in many organizations in the community.

Robert W. Murphy (attd. '36-'37) of Atchison, Kan. passed away in December. He retired in 1983 as a salesman for the JC Penney Store at Atchison.

Martha Pfingsten Penry ('32) of Hebron, Neb. passed away in October. She was a retired registered nurse.

Daniel H. Pettinger ('30) passed away in September. He was a high school math and science teacher in Nebraska before becoming a chemist for DuPont Chemicals. He retired from National Cash Register in Dayton, Ohio.

Viola Brokens Pierce (attd. '25-'27) of Grover Beach, Calif. passed away in October.

Mary Schulenberg Pierson (attd. summers '26, '29 & '31) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in October. She taught in rural schools for a few years, and then worked at the Beatrice State Home for 20 years before returning to the Falls City area.

Maxine Hoffman Pivonka (attd. summer '40) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in November. She was retired from the Lincoln Public Schools.

('71) of Mesa, Ariz. Cecil taught in Nebraska, South Dakota, Missouri, and Iowa

Alfie Nicholas Redfern (attd. summers '24-'26), a long time resident of Peru, Neb. passed away in October. She had been living in the PEO Home at Beatrice, Neb. She was an elementary teacher before her marriage, and was later active in several organizations in Peru. Her daughter Janice Schulte ('52) lives in Emporia, Kan.

Helen Dahlke Robbins (one-year '40, attd. '41-'42) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in November.

Leonard W. Rosakrans (attd. '33-'34) of Tecumseh, Neb. passed away in November.

Irple Ruby of McCook, Neb. passed away in October. She was a librarian at PSC from 1980-84.

We've had good success in recent years in keeping our "lost alumni" list down by using a variety of measures.

One of the best strategies has been, including in each Stater a list of alums who just recently were added to the lost list. In most cases they are people who moved recently and forgot to send a forwarding address.

If you can provide us with an address on any of the following, we'll get them back on the roster and send them a copy of this edition of the Stater. Forward addresses to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or e-mail him at propst@bobcat.peru.edu or call (402) 872-2225.

Courtney L. Stewart - I 998

Barbara J. Fallstead - 1997

Shauna J. Morfeld - 1997

Briven Jackson - 1995

Sean McLucas - 1994

Ryan P. McSorley - 1994

Nathan G. Bradley - 1991

Janel R. Stryker - 1989

Brad J. Hesser - 1985

Richard R. Wood - J 983

M. Eleanor Preston - I 982

Mark A. Knight - 1977

Gary M. Ahlin - 1969

Randall J. Turner - 1969

Lavon Robinson - 1963

Emil L. Dobrovolney - 1952

Ethel Gross Francis - 1943

Alice Druba Sladek - 1941

William Sheely - 1935

Alberta Horstman Beckman1933

Harry D. Schmidt - 1931

Louise Farley - 1930

Nina Burdette Pierson - 1930

Kevin Clear - no year

D.J. Nabors of Eufaula, Okla. passed away in December of 1997. He was a popular theater professor at PSC from 1931to1937.

Mildred Mason "Kit" Nansel ('28) of Callaway, Neb. passed away in November. She was a retired school teacher. She taught for three years in Arnold, Neb. and 27 years in Callaway.

Opal Beason Nincehelser ('33) of Brock, Neb. passed away in December.

Bertha Bednar Pospisil ('28) of Wilber, Neb. passed away in December. She was a physical education teacher in the Wilber High School for several years.

Word has been received of the August '98 death of June Maurine Sutton Rathburn ('33) of Tacoma, Wash.

Cecil Rawson ('42) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in January. Family members include son Keith ('65) and his wife Lucille Christen.sen ('65), of Atchison, Kan. and daughter Rose ('71) and husband Raymond

Frances Wiles Schliefert ('32) of Louisville, Neb. passed away in November. She was a retired elementary school teacher.

Word has been received of the death of Howard W. Smith ('36) of Albuquerque, N.M.

Harriott Hartley

Ulmschneider ('27) of Lodgepole, Neb. passed away in November. She was an early member of Peru State's Beta Beta Beta (Tri-Beta) science honorary and taught in Nebraska and in Montana.

Alma Meier Volz ('27) passed away in Humboldt in January. She taught for a period of time near DuBois, Neb.

Alumni Sought to Aid Job Search Process

Who better to help Peru State ·students prepare for careers than PSC alumni?

Peru State's Cooperative Education and Career Services office hopes to c<>mpile a list of alums wh<> ·are willing to represent their company and give presentations to current students.

Alums can discuss opportunities within their company for students to serve internships, for example, or to talk about the kinds of employees their company needs when filling. positions.

Who knows? You might even come

across a top-notch candidate in the process. But more importantly you can give Peru State students a better feel for what they need to do to prepare for their career.

If you are interested in offering this valuable service to Peru State, contact Julia Perry, CECS Office, Peru State CoJlege, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 684210010.

You also can call her at (402)872-2250 or contact her by e-mail at: perry@bob- ·

Timothy T. Slagle - 1987

Robert K. Chappell - 1985

Thanks to those who in recent months have helped find lost alums: Mary Reschke Cashman ('45), Thelma Mayfield Grafton ('41), Amelia Harman, and Judy Werner Souder ('73).

'69 Alums Lost Along The Way

The Class of '69 is too well represented on Peru State's "Lost Alumni" roster. We're hoping some of our readers can help.

If you know of a current, home address for any of the following Peruvians, please forward the information to:

Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010 or by e-mail at propst@bobcat.peru.edu or by phone to (402) 872-2225.

Ahlin, Gary M.

Austin, William John

Bailey, Diane

Benson, Shirley J.

B lobaum, Marjorie K. (Engelman)

Borgerding, Marjorie (Willis)

Brigham, David A.

Brodersen, Steven W.

Brown, James R.

Burch, John W.

Carbone, Richard J.

Choung, Moo Young

Clark, James Edward

Fine, Ronald D.

Garcia, Charlotte (Loving)

Garcia, Rafael

Hayes, Mildred L. Hazen, Gregory A. Hitch, Stewart Hoffman, Cheryl J. (Houseman) Hutchens, Larry Hutchings, Terry M. Hutson, Maureen (Joy) Kelly, Karlynn A. (Bausch) Knight, Damon F. Koch, Daniel L. Linder, Richard W. McNew, Garry B. Nurin, Emanuel R. Pendergraft, Ronald L. Procaccini Ralph A. Racine, William E. Reineke, Leslie C. Ruge, Virginia Thompson Schoenrock, Barbara (Derrick) Schoenrock, Gary

Scribner, Margaret A. (Zeiner) Shilts, Jimmie Shipman, Lawrence R. Smith, Bill James Smith, Pamela S. (Brown) Solonkyha, Meron Turner, Randall J. Vanarsdale, Harold L. Wendt, Mark B. Woods, George K.

Gibbs Passes Mac

Men's basketball Coach John Gibbs, shown here doing a pre-game interview with John Nixon of KLZA Radio of Falls City, passed the late, great Jack Mcintire for PSC career coaching victories earlier this season. Gibbs has been the PSC coach since the 1981-82 season and broke M clntire 's 250-win record this past January.

1OYears And Already Lost

The Class of '89 has only been gone for 10 years and already they are lost.

Actually, only a handful of them are lost, as in on PSC's dreaded "lost alumni" listing. We'd like to help them find their way back onto the Peru Stater mailing list.

With your help, we can accomplish that task. Send us any current, home addresses you might have to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 684210010 or propst@bobcat.peru.edu or call (402) 872-2225. Baker, Susan (Goldenstein) Bennett, Paul A. Cellar, Russell H. Eisenscher, Edi Evans, Daryl T. Finley, Pamela J. Freerksen, Frances M. (Mayes)

Send

Godinez, Janice M. Hewer, Diane J. Hinz, Jeff Holdsworth, Deborah S. Holman, Davin B. Hom, KittD. Lanctot, Barbara E. Levsky, Diana A. Maxent, Willie McGrath, Michael J. Mittan, Kathleen (Mulcahy) Morris, Howdy L. Newman, Julie R. (Ryder) Nix, James D. Notter, John C. Osmun, Mark W. Schroeder, Cory D. Schroeder, Marita (LaHood) Sexton, Cynthia R. Sillman, Arch R. Stepanek, Alan J. Stryker, Janel R. Talbert, R. Steve Thomas, Michael A. Wilson, Kenneth E. Witmer, Lisa S. (Bull)

(Photo by Kent

Full Speed Ahead!

Pem State College is exiting a bumpy roadand headed for the high-speed highway. and expansion project.

After two tumultuous years that brought intense scmtiny to Nebraska's first college, the road to a promising future lays ahead.

A new President has been appointed and will bring stability and long-term commitment to a college that is experiencing its fourth leader in just over a year.

The Nebraska legislature in its just-completed 1999 session approved some $3.8 million for the long-awaited W.F. Hoyt Science Hall renovation

An additional $240,000 was provided by state lawmakers-, at the request of Gov. Mike Johanns, to undertake a water pipe replacement project and install a water filtration system on campus.

The college is formulating plans to spend almost $2 million to modify and modernize its residence halls. None of the money will involve taxpayer dollars. (See related story).

(Continued on Page 3)

Lewis Welcomed Aboard

Steve Lewis ('79, right) was backon campus in May, this time in a new capacity - as a member of Peru State's governing board, the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges. The Lexington, Neb. hospital administrator took a campus tour and spent some time. with one ofhis former professors, Dr. David Pippert (left). For a story on Lewis, see page ll;for a story on Pippert, who retires

PSC Has Big Plans For Residence

Plans are moving forward for the most sweeping series of improvements to Peru State College's residence halls since the construction of its Centennial Complex in 1967.

The Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges recently approved Peru State's plan to issue up to $1.5 million in bond anticipation notes for the renovations.

Those funds, coupled with approximately $400,000 in surplus cash in PSC's revenue

bond account, would pay for nearly $2 million in enhancements in PSC halls over the next couple of years.

"The objective is quick improvements that will allow us to provide the improvements needed by our students," noted Erin O'Grady Sayer ('91), Director of Residence Life.

Peru State will ask the state legislature to approve the bond anticipation notes to fund the lion's share of the projects,

25th President

first college. He brings a strong and diverse academic and administrative background to the collexe.

Dr. Ben E.. Johnson Named

25th

Dr. Ben E. Johnson has been named the 25th President of Pem State College.

The Iowa native -most recently was Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty at Thomas College in Thomasville, Ga. He began work at Peru State on June 15.

"The world doesn't know what a gem it has in Peru State College," Johnson said. "The school is poised to do some tremendous things. I told the Board that with the help of the good people here, they won't know this place in three years.

Sayer said. No taxpayer dollars are involved.

More revenue

PSC plans to pay off the bonds within five years by generating more revenue by, among other things, hosting summer conferences and camps - something that has been hard to do without air conditioned facilities, Sayer noted.

(Continued on Page 3)

"I feel tremendously pnv1leged to have this opportunity," he added.

Johnson has taught and served in a variety of administrative positions at universities, four-year colleges, and community colleges.

He spent four years as Executive Director of the Sarasota, Fla.-based The Education Foundation, a fund raising and grant making group committed to supporting and enriching education.

(Continued on Page 8)

Homecoming Is Coming!

J>eru State College's 78th annual B:omecoming celebration is coming up o.n Saturday, Oct. 2.

Traditional highlights such as the Reception, Homecoming Parade, and of course the Homecoming Football Game are in the planning stages.

foformation wm be sent to alums living in the. area; if you live.more than 150 miles or so from campus and want a schedule olevents, please contact Kent Propst in the PSC alumni office and he'U be sure to get you one.

Please make note of the date on your calendar and make plans to enjoy the celebration!

Dr. Ben E. Johnson has arrived on the Peru State College campus as the 25th President of Nebraska s

(Photo by l<ent Propst)

by Dr. Leonard Skov Interim President

I know it is impossible to reflect on all the situations on our campus after only three months time here. However, I do want to report to you on my observatiOns and impressions.

It did not take me long to see that we are blessed by many individuals who bring a total dedication to the mission of Peru State and also possess the skills and qualities necessary to help achieve our mission. I have observed individuals in all facets of the campus community who are truly making a difference in the quality of learning experiences, the quality of student life, and the quality of the campus atmosphere.

Their work and commitment truly illustrates a sense of community in its finest form and a recognition of our primary reason for being here - the consistent delivery of a quality postsecondary learning experience to each student. This level of commitment is a constant reminder that Peru State is not here for us, but that we are here for Peru State, more specifically, for the students at Peru State.

Good Things Ahead

The past months have been trying, but we have worked our way through them and have many good things to look forward to.

* The funding for the Hoyt project is now assured.

A major player in getting us to this point has been the Peru State College Foundation, which has committed the funds necessary to complete the Construction Documents. This commitment will allow the project to bid either January 2000 or April 2000. We still have some work to do to be sure the bidding is done in January (which could make a one semester difference in completion of the building). The Hoyt project will provide much needed facility support to the instructional programs in the sciences. It will also give us a street-level entrance and an elevator to provide vertical movement to the quadrangle.

* Funding has been provided to complete the Design/Development Phase of the Old Gymnasium/Library project. This project will provide much needed facility support to the Library, the Art program and the Mathematics-Computer Science program. The project is presently scheduled for construction in the 2002-2003 year. However, we are working on a plan hoping to gain the legislative approval necessary to accelerate that timing to 2001-2002.

Campus Services

* The funding for the Campus Services Building will come from LBllOO which provides for bond funds that are blended with campus funds. The Campus Services Building will be ready for bidding by late Fall, 1999. It wiil provide renovated and new space to house all the physical plant services along with the mail room, communications center and the other June-

tions that are currently scattered over the campus. This project must be completed before the carpenter shop and other services can be moved from the Old Gym, freeing that building for its renovation i'nto a new Library.

Gov. Johanns: Go Bobcats!

Dear Dr. Skov:

I am writing to address the concerns which have come to my attention from families in southeast Nebraska about the future of Peru State College. Considering the events of the past few years, it is no surprise that prospective freshmen and their families are wondering if Peru State College will continue to serve as the beacon of enlightenment in your corner of Nebraska.

Commission for Postsecondary Education. The study recommended the improvement of Peru State and the addition of collaborative learning centers.

The Commission also called for specific Improvements the college needs to make and will establish benchmarks and objectives which will be measured annually by the Commission and by the Legislature.

Dr. Leonard Skov Interim President Planning documents and the Benchmark Project documents have been approved by the Board of Trustees, accepted by the Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education and presented to the Appropriation Committee of the Legislature. This process will serve us well as we continue on the path to the reestablishment of an even better Peru State College.

*The Strategic

As I stated forcefully and repeatedly in my campaign, Peru State is not going to move, and Peru State is not going to close. I have submitted a budget for the next biennium which, if followed by the Legislature - and I have every reason to believe it will be - will appropriate sufficient money to provide the campus wide facilities planning, architectural planning, and water system renovation to begin the long-overdue improvement of the Peru State campus.

As you know, the Legislature voted in 1998 to appropriate $3.8 million for Peru State, conditioned on a study by the Coordinating

I have every confidence that the faculty, staff, and community of Peru State alumni and friends will not only meet but exceed these goals, and that the state will fulfill its commitment to providing the resources to ensure continued accessibility of sound eduQ;itional programs in southeast Nebraska.

Please reassure the students, families, alumni, and friends of Peru State College, and the citizens of Peru, of my commitment toward the continued improvement of Peru State College.

Go Bobcats!

Sincerely, Mike Johanns Governor

* Over the course of the next few summers, nearly $2,000,000 will be spent to renovate and upgrade residence halls. Specifically, these projects will provide air conditioning for the Centennial Complex, Internet access in all residence halls, new heating systems at Centennial Complex, carpeting/painting and general redecorating, roof replacements at Centennial Complex and Delzell, new furnishings at Centennial Complex and Morgan and additional parking at Oak Hill.

. Support Seen

An extremely encouraging condition is the strong support for Peru State College that has surfaced over this year. In my 40+ years of working in Nebraska, I cannot recall another example of a governor writing to affirm and expand a commitment to a college or university as occurred this year. Governors have stepped up to support after an adverse action by the Legislature or a governing board, but not prior to any such action.

We also need to be extremely thankful to Senator Floyd Vrtiska, whose unwavering support of Peru State has literally carried us over some pretty wide chasms. As 1 visit with individuals and community representatives from all of Southeast Nebraska, I hear the same solid support for Peru State.

I hope you agree that we have much to feel very good about. The physical changes and improvements will be noticed by even the casual observers. Our task is to follow with the operational, programmatic, and "people" activities that will continue to move us closer to our collective vision for Peru State College.

Working with the Peru State community has been a pleasure, an honor and a humbling experience. Dee and I will treasure our time with you forever.

Vrtiska offers assurances

Dear Dr. Skov:

This letter is submitted to provide information to individuals who are considering attending Peru State College. I am the senator who represents District #1 and have fought hard for the past few years to make sure Peru State College continues to survive and flourish.

There have been attempts to relocate the college and a bill introduced to close the school. I am pleased to report that neither measure has been successful.

It should come as no surprise to learn that recruiting efforts have been negatively affected and prospective students and their families have expressed concern about the future of Peru State College.

With this Jetter, I would like to reassure those prospective students that both the Nebraska State Legislature and Governor Mike Johanns have taken responsible actions to assure that needed improvements in such areas of facility utilization, student retention and community amenities are met through a continuing support of the appropriations and education process of the Nebraska Legislature to improve Peru State College and make it a more integral and viable member of our postsecondary education system.

I believe that the future of Peru State College has been decided. We have the commitment of $3.8 million dollars for renovation that was approved last session, additional funds in Governor Mike Johanns' budget this year as well as my priority bill (LB 650) which requests

funding for renovation of Peru State College. The commitment to these funds has strengthened the future of the college.

Sincerely,

Floyd P. Vrtiska Senator, District #1

1.· 17kit 7P:en1f$1ta1tell' I

President Dr. Leonard Skov Editor Kent Propst (' 81)

Assistants

Carolyn Bredemeier Jackie Baker Williams (' 81)

Sports Chris Erickson

Photography Tony Koso ('99) Elizabeth Olsen ('02)

Features Intern Debbie Sailors ('00)

The Peru Stater is published three times per year by Peru State College with the suppport of the PSC Foundation. The Stater is printed at the Beatrice (Neb.) Daily Sun. Send comments, news· items and address changes to: The Peru Stater, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Nebraska 68421-0010. The Peru State College phone number is (402) 872-3815. Send e-mail to: propst@bobcat.peru.edu

PSC ffers ew Residence Hall Incentive Program - Free Year

College students and their parents know that education is an investment in the future. Students at Peru State College now can invest three years in residence hall fees, and get their fourth year at no charge.

PSC students are signing up for the Fourth Year Free Residence Hall Program, according to Dr. Leonard Skov, interim President of Peru State. One year of oncampus housing is currently valued at about $1,700.

To qualify, students must have at least a 2.5 GPA and practice good citizenship. Approximately 30 Peru students have already signed up

for the program for the fall 1999 semester, said Erin O'Grady Sayer ('91), Director of Residence Life.

"We're very pleased to be able to offer this program," Sayer said. "I hope students and parents take advantage of it."

College officials also see the program as investment in a goal. They believe that upper division students who stay oncampus beyond their sophomore year can provide positive, more mature influences on younger students.

Other benefits to the college include increased residence hall occupancy and improved

Action In Delzell

Stately W N. Delzell Hall, built in 1939, and the rest of Peru Sate's residence halls are getting a lot of attention these days. PSC is planning to put nearly $2 million into residence hall improvements over the next couple of years, and is instituting a new 'fourth year free" program to attract more students to on-campus housing. (Photo by Tony Koso)

student retention rates. Sayer said that instead of the program resulting in less revenue, Peru State could increase revenue due to students paying' for their third year instead of moving off campus, and due to improved retention of freshmen and sophomores.

Kathy Chase, a junior art

and English major from Bellevue, Neb., has lived oncampus the past three years and is one of those who quickly signed on for the free housing program.

"I think it's great," she said. "I was considering living offcampus this year, but I decided to stay."

Transfer students will be considered individually for eligibility for the program, Sayer said.

Students may obtain further information from Sayer in the Office of Residence Life, Administration Building Room 309, or by phone at (402) 872-2246.

Residence Halls ....................... From Page 1

Air conditioning at the sixbuilding Centennial Complex is one of two significant, and most costly, improvements that PSC students will notice. The other big-ticket item is internet access in all halls, Sayer noted.

The new fan-forced heating/cooling units at the Complex will replace aging and inefficient radiant heat units. Adding air conditioning gives Peru State the type of facilities that have been needed for many years.

Half a million

The estimated $560,000 project affects Nicholas, Pate, Clayburn, Mathews, Davidson and Palmer Halls a few blocks south of the main campus, Sayer said.

Those same facilities, along with the on-campus Morgan and Delzell Halls, will be rewired to accommodate the internet in every room. The project is estimated at approximately $450,000.

Those projects are at the top of the list of student requests, and will allow Peru State to be more competitive in student recruitment and retention, Sayer said.

"This is the first time since I've been around that we've been able to do major work in our halls and to do what the students want," Sayer noted.

"We've gotten to a point where we can do new things that our students have identified as very important to their decision to live in the residence halls."

The rest of the bond proceeds will go for projects that are less visible but not less important, Sayer said Carpeting, painting and things of that nature are atop those lists.

Work this summer

Likewise, the $400,000 of surplus funds in the revenue bond program will fund some obvious improvements and others less apparent. Again,

Sayer emphasized, these are not taxpayer dollars.

Foremost on that list will be roof replacement projects at Davidson, Palmer, Nicholas, Pate and Delzell Halls - not glamorous stuff, Sayer admits, but essential. New furnishings and bedding at the Complex and Morgan Hall, additional parking at the Oak Hill married student complex, and other lesser projects are in the works.

The focus of these projects is the short term, but college officials are even more excited about the long-term prospects. By 2005-2006 and perhaps sooner, Peru State will have paid off not only these shortterm bonds, but also will retire the last of its long-term bonds issued in 1991.

That will put PSC in a position to issue several million dollars' worth of bonds in a couple of years, Sayer said. Planning already has begun for this additional work on Peru State residence hall facilities.

Fu 11 Speed Ahead ............................................................

Fund drive

The Peru State College Foundation has agreed to embark on a campaign to raise $2 million to support the campus. The Foundation, the private, non-profit corporation which receives charitable gifts to support Peru State, also is about to hire an Executive Director to provide leadership to that effort and all other activities of the Foundation.

PSC will be looking to its alumni for a new level of participation in this initiative.

College officials are planning a three-phase project that will renovate the Physical Plant (built in 1907 and once home to the industrial arts program), the Old Gym (built in 1905 as a chapel), and the library (built in 1906, with a second floor added in 1911).

This initiative, which may actually begin even before ground is broken on the Hoyt Science Hall project, will dramatically change the look and function of The Campus of A

Thousand Oaks.

The renovated Physical Plant will continue to house the steam heating system and offices and shops of the maintenance and custodial departments. The campus mail room and communication services office, the carpenter shop, campus security office and the automotive shop also will find a new home in what college officials propose to be called the Campus Services building. Moving out

The mail room/communication services office, the carpenter shop, campus security, physical education classrooms and a lab, and the art department will move out of the Old Gym where they are housed at present.

Into that building will come the PSC Library. By every conceivable measurement and standard, Peru State's library facilities are significantly smaller than they should be for a college of its size.

Yet repeated attempts to

gain approval and funding for an addition onto the current library have fallen short of their goal. In the meantime, the Old Gym has been underutilized since the Al Wheeler Activity Center was opened in 1980.

By converting the Old Gym into a library, PSC gains the badly needed additional space without building an additional structure. The plan reveals what will be an outstanding library facility that retains the character of the over 90-yearold building.

The last phase of the project will be the conversion of the library into a classroom/lab facility. The basement and main floor would be home to the art program; ironically, that building was home to the art department until 1963. The top floor will house classrooms and offices for math and computer science.

Buildings razed

As part of the effort to improve efficiency, three small

buildings - the college greenhouse, the Alumni/Foundation Building (once known as the Engineer's House), and the automotive shop - will be razed, as will the former coal bin (now used for equipment storage) adjacent to the Physical Plant.

Those are the principal projects that Peru State and State College officials believe will improve the teaching/learning environment at the college within the next couple of years.

Other changes, including a more comprehensive modernization of PSC's residence hall facilities, are just a few more years down the road.

No one individual or group deserves sole, or even primary, credit for these exciting developments, noted Dr. Leonard Skov, formerly the interim President of Peru State. It's been a shining example of a collaborative, group effort.

College faculty, staff and students have worked hard and

From Page 1

made sacrifices to realize these ·changes. People from across southeast Nebraska have been vocal in their support for Peru State College.

Continued support

Hundreds of alumni have taken active, leading roles in advocating support for Peru State College, too, Skov noted. They have had a tremendously positive impact, and must continue to do so.

Skov did cite the "heroic" efforts of State Sen. Floyd Vrtiska of Table Rock, Neb.; the unwavering support of Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns; the legislative efforts of State Sen. Roger Wehrbein of Plattsmouth, Neb.; and the renewed commitment of the Peru State College Foundation as key to paving the road to Peru's potential prosperity.

It will take much more hard work, vision, resources and support by all of Peru State's supporters - alumni in particular - for the college to take full advantage of this potential.

by Jim Krajicek ('86) Trustee, PSC Foundation

lf you are reading this article, you obviously have an interest in Peru State College. Chances are you probably had a positive experience with PSC itself, or have had positive interactions with one or more of its graduates.

I'm also sure you've heard and read all of the negative publicity regarding PSC over the last 24 months. To further put this experience behind us, PSC is in need of strong commitments from:

1. The State Legislature

2. The Peru State Community

I'm happy to say the Legislature has done its part and that PSC has received outstanding public commitment from Nebraska Governor Mike Johanns. Funds have been appropriated in the state budget for construction and renovation of the Hoyt Science Hall. Additional funds are also earmarked for major of other campus infrastructure.

Fulfill commitment

We, as members of the PSC Community, still must fulfill our commitment.

I'm writing today to tell you what our commitment must consist of and to share with you why I'm committed to PSC's future. Remember, commitment means to be emotionally or intellectually bound to an ideal or course of action.

I'm a farm boy from Nebraska and the last of seven kids. My folks didn't have a lot of money, and probably because of that fact, attending college and bettering myself was engrained in me at an early age. All of us kids attended college at either PSC or Wayne State.

l majored in Biology and played football at PSC. Not unlike many kids experiencing freedom for the first time, I did not let my coursework inteifere with my education during my first few semesters at PSC. Playing ball, partying, hanging out with the fellas, and chasing girls rated much higher on my priority list than attending Pre-Calculus (every day of the week I might add-sorry Mr. McKercher).

'Meeting of Minds'

The last game of the season my sophomore year I tore my knee up, had major surgery, and hobbled around campus with my leg in a full cast. My grades (or lack thereof) were catching up with me. Dr. Larry Pappas (Biology Prof) and Dr. Dave Pippert (Chemistry Prof retiring this spring) had an extended meeting of the minds with me.

They suggested some action plans ( changing my priorities and actually studying) which just might make it possible for me to be successful at PSC. I walked out of the meeting embarrassed and humbled and finished out the semester.

I went home for Christmas and discussed staying on the farm with my folks. They were struggling financially like many other farmers in the early-riid '80s and basically told me to go back to school and not screw up again. That spring semester, I actually studied, continued to play ball, and eventually

graauared on-time (i.e., in four years) in 1986.

The personal interest and effort my professors took in me literally made the difference for me. PSC made this marginal student successful and made many of my friends who were great students confident achievers. Many of us (including me) majoring in biology at that time went on to graduate school to Jim Krajicek ('86) obtain Masters and Doctoral Degrees. I can assure you, our time at PSC fully prepared us for graduate school.

More than ever

I believe that today, there are more students than ever before that need the Peru State experience. A low-cost small-college education is a great way to make good kids better kids (i.e., contributors to their communities), to expose small town and big city kids to new ideas and different cultures, all the while developing lifelong relationships. Going away to grow up with my peers on a residential campus was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I know many of you feel the same way.

In order for more students to choose the Peru State experience the school needs your commitment. The school has approximately 9000 living alumni. If each of us gives $100 annually that equates to almost $1,000,000. This breaks down to a little more than 25 cents/day, less than the price of a candy bar. If anyone has seen me lately, you know l could skip a few candy bars. Are there more of us out there?

You should also know that currently, our annual alumni pledge (phone-a-than) drive nets only $40,000. Obviously there is a big disconnect between the potential we have to give vs. our track record.

The time to give is now. The eyes of the Legislature are on us. State legislators fully expect us to contribute to building construction and renovation projects at PSC. Future renovation and expansion projects (e.g., library) will be funded by the Legislature without afight if we have cash on-hand to contribute for the project.

You should also know that the PSC Foundation has about $6,000,000 in assets. Most of the revenue from these assets is tied up for endowed scholarships. Very little revenue is currently available for capital construction projects. I realize that one of the most endearing things about PSC is that it has changed so little over time. Conversely, the antiquated facilities make it hard for potential students to envision attending and graduating from PSC.

If you believe as I do, that this school still has a purpose, and that purpose is educating and bettering people, then you better ante up now-I'm sure there are future PSC graduates that will add value to your community just as you have.

Phone-A-Thon rings up results

Peru State College supporters answered the call this spring during the annual PSC Foundation Phone-A-Thon.

The Foundation fundraiser saw pledges increase by a whopping 43 percent, according to Foundation President Lester Russell.

Equally encouraging was the fact that the number of donors grew by 23 percent, Russell noted. And the average gift pledge was up by a healthy 16 percent.

"We're happy to see such a positive response to the Phone-AThon, which we believe reflects the many positive things our alumni see happening at Peru State College today," noted Dr. Lester Russell, a retired PSC professor. "We're asking supporters to do more; this is one indication of the kind of response we believe we can expect."

PSC alumni and friends pledged a total of $44,043 during the campaign, compared to $30, 720 a year ago. The number of donors climbed from 916 last year to l , 129 this spring, Russell noted.

Just over 3,000 potential supporters were contacted during the Phone-A-Thon, he added. Those who were not reached via phone were contacted during a follow-up campaign through the mail.

The results impressed PSC' s interim President, Dr. Leonard Skov, too. He said it shows evidence that Peru State supporters are more willing than ever to assist the college.

"A consistent mark of a healthy, viable campus is a high level of support from its alumni," noted Dr. Leonard Skov. "This response of Peru State alumni already signals the appreciation of graduates for the quality education they received and the commitment they have to their on-going financial support to the college," he added.

Memorial Gifts Make A Difference

Memorial gifts to the Peru State College Foundation are a great way to pay tribute to both the person being memorialized, and to Peru State College.

These tributes typically take the form of scholarships (established, ongoing funds also called endowments) or memorials (one-time gifts).

Following is a list of such gifts received by the PSC Foundation during a period from mid-January to mid-May.

If you see a scholarship or memorial fund to which you would like to add a gift, please send it to: Peru State College Foundation, c/o Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010.

Dorothy Bacon Memorial

Rev. and Mrs. Floyd Butts

Merle Bauer Scholarship

Eugene McMullen

Adelaide Prokop Bernica

Memorial

Evelyn Lawton

Al Brady Scholarship

Susan Harpham Bose

John Christ Scholarship

Corwin Arndt

George Barrett

S.L. Clements Scholarship

Willard and Dorothy Cawthorne Shumard

Dr. Richard Flynn/Sen. Floyd Vrtiska Scholarship

Jack & Nancy Hardy

Hallstrom

Barney Oldfield

Omaha Alumni

Kent & Becki Young Propst

Otto Rath

Floyd & Doris Wagner Vrtiska

Terri Vrtiska

Glen and Verda Frary Scholarship

SaraBeth Donovan

Chris Haddad Scholarship

Betty Haddad

Kent & Becki Young Propst

A.V. & Wilhelminia Larson Scholarship

Leonore Larson Graf

Lyle McKercher Scholarship

Susan Harpham Bose

John Duder

Larry Eden

Larry Swett

(Continued on Page 5)

Flynn-Vrtiska Scholarship Established

The Peru State College Foundation has announced the establishment of the Dr, Richard Flynn-Senator Floyd Vrtiska Academic Scholarship. This new scholarship was created by PSC's Omaha Alumni Association, which donated to the fund.

Flynn served as interim President at Peru from August 1998 to February 1999. Vrtiska has been a strong supporter of PSC through the years, especially during the recent controversies involving the college.

The first award for $500 will be for the 1999-2000 school year. The scholarship will go to a full-time PSC student who graduated from a southeast Nebraska community high school in .the upper quarter of his or her class. The recipient must also reside in Nebraska's Legislative District #1.

Organizers of the scholarship hope that it can become an endowed, or permanent, scholarship. To reach that goal, donations are needed so that only the interest income is used to fund the annual scholarship.

For more information about the Flynn-Vrtiska Scholarship Fund call the PSC Foundation at (402) 8722304 or write to: PSC Foundation, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421.

New to PSCF Board

New members of the PSC Foundation Board of Trustees, who began three-year terms in April, included (front row form left) Beth Propst Mierau ('82), Loveland, Colo.; Connie Sims Edmond ('87), Lincoln, Neb.; Shelley McAdams-Cygan ('81), Lincoln, Neb.; (back row from left) Dr. Otto Rath ('51), Omaha; Doug Friedli, Nebraska City; Dr. Sharon Ocker ('53), Sioux City, Iowa; and Harley Rector ('53), Norfolk, Neb. (Photo by Kent Propst)

Foundation Looks Back And Ahead

The Peru State College Foundation held its annual meeting on the PSC campus; in April pausing to review the past year's activities and to plan for the year to come.

Over 70 Trustees and guests were on hand, one of the biggest crowds for an annual meeting in the over 40-year history of the Foundation. The PSC Foundation is the private, non-profit corporation that receives gifts and other support on behalf of the college.

Foundation President Lester Russell ('51) of Peru convened the meeting. Treasurer John Chaney of Auburn reported on the over $6 mil-· lion in Foundation assets and its expenditures and revenues for 1998.

State Sen. Floyd Vrtiska of Table Rock gave an update on legislative activities and the challenges which remain ahead for Peru State. John Lindsay, a lobbyist with the firm O'Hara and Associates, reported on their company's efforts on behalf of the Foundation.

Foundation Trustee R. Wiley Remmers ('38) of Auburn gave the recommendations of the nominating committee. All 1998 officers were re-elected, including Russell as President, Marv Gerdes ('53) of Auburn as Vice President, Chaney as Treasurer and Harvey Fraser ('65) of Humboldt as Secretary.

Eleven new Trustees joined the Foundation. Shelly McAdams-Cygan ('81) and Connie

Sims Edmond ('87) of Lincoln, Neb., Diane Coover Emanuel ('84) and D.r. Otto Rath ('51) of Omaha, Doug Friedli and Pat Simpson Ramold ('68) of Nebraska City, James Grant III of Auburn, Harley Rector ('53) of Norfolk, Nadine Adcock Fahrlander ('59) of Minden, and Beth Propst Mierau ('82) of Loveland, Colo., and Sharon Ocker ('53) of Sioux City, Iowa, all will serve threeyear terms on the Board.

Trustees re-elected to three-year terms include Barbara Bragg Clayburn ('51) of Apache Junction, Ariz.; Sara beth Donovan ('85), Jack ('50) and Nancy Hardy Hallstrom ('51) of Omaha; Jud Douglas and Lori Vrtiska Seibel ('84) of Lincoln; Marge Ely ('90), Bob Engles ('73), Marv Gerdes, Mike Gerdes ('88), and Brad Lockhart ('83) of Auburn; Lori Remmers Gerking ('95) of Brock; Harvey Fraser of Humboldt; Michelle Hess ('78) of Nebraska City; Dale Moore ('54) of Lakewood, Colo.; Lester Russell of Peru; Robert Smith ('47) of Johnson; Rodney Vandeberg of Falls City; and John Vanderford ('69) of Kansas City, Mo.

Between the re-elected Trustees and the new ones it brings the Foundation governing board to a total of 66 from six states, Dr. Russell said. Trustees who retired from the Board included Marcia Beisner Gilliam ('81) and Ken Majors ('59).

Bookstore Says, Shop by E-Mail

Alumni of Peru State College with an interest in buying PSC sweatshirts, t-shirts, caps and other items carried by the Bobcat Bookstore, but who aren't able to come to campus to shop, can do their shopping by phone or e-mail. ·

Deb Adams, manager of the Bookstore, reminds Peruvians they can call or e-mail for more information and Bookstore staff will be

happy to handle the order.

They'll describe items currently available in the Bookstore in the size and style you want. Have your credit card handy.

The phone number for the Bobcat Bookstore is (402) 872-2254, or e-mail them at: bookstore@bobcat.peru.edu

Get your PSC gear today!

Memorials ................ From Page 4

Larry Pappas Scholarship

PSC Biology Club

Jeff Wignall

Erv Pitts Memorial

Beth Propst Mierau

Paul and Loretta Kruse

Lester and Esther Holmes

Russell

George Schottenhamel Scholarship

Phillip Niemann

Ken Sims Scholarship

Linda Jeffers Kreimeyer

G. Holt "Pop" Steck Scholarship

William Fankhauser

Margery Evans Teel

Jerry Stemper Memorial

William Almond

Eugene McMullen

Dick and Jean Ruyle Rottman

Bill & Jeanne Tynon Scholarship

Mary Tynon Allgood

Nancy Tynon Bartek

Helen Tynon Pugh

Lisa Weis Scholarship

Lloyd & Marcella Weis

The PSC Foundation also has endowment funds for the following scholarships; again, you can add to these funds at any time, and your gifts are tax-deductible.

Laurine Anderson Tri-Beta

C.E. Andrews

Bath Family

E.C. Beck

Esther Delzell Brownell

Pearl Morgan Butler

Campus of A Thousand Oaks

Roy Chamberlain

C.C. Choyce

A.B. Clayburn

Dr. Crabtree

Ada Crooker

Davidson Estate

Phyllis Davidson

Elizabeth Dougherty

Mac Dunning

Lura Henricks Eichler

Loure Salzman Firoved

Elsie Fisher

Esther Cole Franklin

Clifford Harding

Benjamin Harrison

Arnold and Bertha Hilterman

Lena Huff

Harry and Mary Hutchinson

Dee and Kathleen Jarvis

Glenn D. Jenkins

Paul and Lillian Landolt

Art Majors

Charles Masopust

Hollis Masopust

Joe Masopust

John and Francis Schima

Masopust

Irene and Mason Miller

Joy Elmer Morgan

Evalyn B. Newton

Omaha World Herald

Lester and Maxine Metcalf

Pankonin

Dale and Evelyn Park

Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Pate

Dale Priest

Ernest Rawson

Wayne 0. and Adele

Penterman Reed

A.B. Ritchie Basketball

Clarence and Mildred Russell

Bernice Shackelford

Beatrice Spohn

M.O. Stevenson

Maude Vacek

Dr. John and Daisy Clark

Wear

Bereniece McHirron Weigand

Charles Weigand

Harold E. Willey

Jack D. and Eula M. Wolken

Zelma Wonderly

For more information call the PSC Foundation Office at (402) 872-2304.

President of PSC's Omaha Alu;mi chapter, had a chance to visit with a special guest at the '99 Omaha Reunion in April: Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns. Gov. Johanns and his wife Stephanie, along with State Sen. Floyd V11iska and his wife Doris, took time from their busy schedules to spend the evening with over I 00 loyal Peruvians at the get-together.

Omaha Reunion Star-Studded

In the last Stater we said the Omaha-Area Alumni Association would have a tough time topping its 1998 assembly.

Darned if they didn't do just that.

A hundred VIPs came together in late April for the annual get-together at the German-American Society Club. They were joined by four extra-special guests: Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns and his wife Stephanie, and State Senator Floyd Vrtiska and his wife Doris (Wagner '47).

The Governor and his wife came for part of the reception, stayed through dinner, addressed the chapter and reiterated his strong support for Peru State, and remained for part of the rest of the program.

Chapter Co-President Lynn Osterholm ('61) orchestrated the meeting, introducing special guests and college personnel in attendance. Also present were Dr. Les Russell ('51), President of the Peru State College Foundation, and Bob ('69) and Kathy

With Emphasis

&t

IKansas City-Area Chapter Ready to Rock & Roll

(Gregory '75) Kelly; Bob is President of the Lincoln Alumni Chapter.

The chapter was reminded of the approaching application deadline for the Omaha Alumni Association's $500 scholarship to PSC, for family members of Omaha-area Peruvians. The group also was told that the chapter had initiated the Dr. ·Richard Flynn-Sen. Floyd Vrtiska Scholarship through the PSC Foundation.

Jack ('50) and Nancy (Hardy '51) Hallstrom led the effort for another hugely successful raffle and auction that yielded well over $3,000 for the chapter treasury.

Sen. Vrtiska spoke to the group about legislative developments impacting the college, most of which were positive. Both Sen. Vrtiska and Gov. Johanns received standing ovations from the crowd.

Arlene Heinke Mitchell ('38) received an award as the· earliest alum at the Reunion, while Heather Wearing ('91) was honored as the most recent grad on hand. The

Hallstrom's also received special notice for their efforts on behalf of the chapter.

Lynn and Pauline (Kish '59) Osterholm, Myrt ('47) and Dee (Leonard '42) Hall, and Erik ('61) and Jo (Sharp '59) Torring, chapter officers for the past year, also were presented with gifts for their good work.

Leading the organization for the next year will be the Hall's as co-Presidents, Monty ('63) and Judy (Adams '62) Allgood as co-PresidentsElect, and Sara Donovan ('85) as Secretary-Treasurer. For more information, contact one of the Chapter Officers listed below.

Myrt ('47) & Dee ('42) Hall 9212 California Pl. Omaha, Neb. 68114 ·

Monty ('63) & Judy ('62) Allgood 16106 Ontario Circle Omaha, Neb. 68130

Sara Donovan ('85) 14012 Olive Circle Omaha, Neb. 68138

Secretary!Treasurer.

The Kansas City-Area Alumni Chapter is once again ready to rock & roll. Organizers are cranking things up for a Reunion set for Sunday, Oct. 17 at the everpopu lar Dick Clark's American Bandstand Grill. The food is great, the atmosphere is fun, and it's easy to find at I-435 and Metcalf in Overland. Park.

Chapter President Randy Hansen ('74) and the rest of the Reunion organizers encourage you to make a note on your calendar and to send in your reservation soon after you get your invitation this

fall.

For more information, contact any of these officers listed below.

Randy Hansen ('74) 13700 W. 8lst Terrace

Lenexa, Kan. 66215

Jim ('66) & Nancy ('67) Lyons 275 SW 2001 Kingsville, Mo. 64061

Bob ('50) & Elaine ('SO) Roberts

1341 S. Mulberry Ottawa, Kan. 66067

It's Full Speed Ahead For V-SN-12 Reunion

A Reunion of all of the student-athletes who made up one of the most interesting eras in Peru State sports history has been scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 4 (Labor Day weekend) at Peru State.

The Navy V-5/V-12 officer training programs were HQ'd in Delzell Hall during World War II. The Navy personnel singlehandedly kept Bobcat sports alive during that time.

The Bobcat football team will host arch-rival Doane College and PSC is holding its

annual Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremonies that day, too.

If you participated in both Bobcat sports and the Navy program during that time, please contact Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010 at your earliest convenience. Invitations will be sent shortly. Anyone else who remembers those programs should plan to be on campus that weekend as we salute the Navymen on Sept. 4!

(Photo by Kent Propst)

Lynn Osterholm ('61), co-President of the Omaha Alumni group this past year, makes a point during the get-together in late April.

(Photo by Kent Propst)

The Lincoln Alumni Chapter is beginning to plan for its fall reunion, set for Friday, Nov. 12 at The Knolls in southwest Lincoln.

If you want to get involved in the Lincoln Alumni chapter, contact one of the chapter officers listed below. See you this fall!

Vince Henzel ('86) 5301NW3rd Lincoln, Neb. 68521

Chapter officers include Bob Kelly ('69) as President, Vince Henzel ('86) as Vice President, and Cindy Hoffman ('82) as

Bob Kelly ('69) 6601 Teton Drive Lincoln, Neb. 68510

Cindy Hoffman ('82) 4921 Elk Ridge Road Lincoln, Neb. 68516

Northern Californians Celebrate in Style

The '99 Northern California " ·"' Alumni Reunion this past April drew one of its biggest crowds in recent years, and the group's enthusiasm matched its volume.

Expertly coordinated once again by Bob "Red" Wilson ('51), Carlos Harrison ('51) and Rex ('42) and Hope (Carter '42) Floyd, the event was held once again at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, thanks to arrangements made by the Floyd's.

After a long, casual and noisy social hour and registration, followed by lunch, Wilson called the meeting together and turned it over to Harrison, once again serving as Master of Ceremonies.

Introductions, news about other Peruvians in Northern California and elsewhere, and remarks about the current state of affairs at the college by PSC's Kent Propst ('81) occupied much of the afternoon.

Many nice prizes, including California wines selected by Bill Albright ('57), were dispensed. Propst presented special gifts to the Floyd's, Wilson and Harrison for their

Arizona 2000

It may still be over half a year away, but Peru Staters living in - or wintering in - Arizona shouldn't forget that the next Reunion will be here before you know it.

We'll publish more information about the Reunion, usually held in January or February, in the fall edition of the Peru Stater.

But if you want more information, or are willing to get involved with the chapter, contact one of the chapter officers listed below.

Annie Billings Berkheimer ('79)

6408 S. Pine Tempe, Ariz. 85283

Jerry Laflin ('67)

HCRBox204

Sells, Ariz. 85634

Alan Shipley ('66) 8647 E. Cambridge Ave. Scottsdale, A\iz. 85257

News about people you know 1920s

Minnie Edgington Bennett ('25) of'Hasti:igs, Neb. was featured in the Hastings newspaper, and mary others, this winter. Minnie celebrated her lOOth birthday la.st November. She began her teaching career in a one-room :;2hool near her home in Diller. After receiving her teaching degree, she taught in high school in Oxford, Neb. where sr::c met her husband, and later taught in Hastings.

1930s

Sorry, faithful readers of 1930s Peruviz,1ca.. It would appear no one is doing anything newsworthy i::;:::se days

1940s

Golden Grads

The Northern California Alumni chapter saluted three members of the 50-year Class of '49 during its annual rendezvous in Fairfield this past spring: (from left) J.B. Johnson of Auburn (Calif.), Phyllis Stever Redemann of Walnut Creek, and Ray Elwell

work on behalf of the chapter.

Ray Elwell, J.B. Johnson and Phyllis Stever Redemann, of the Class of '49, were given bronze medallions on the occasion of their being members of the 50-year class.

Bill Shumard ('35) received a prize for being the earliest alum in attendance, while Stacy Williamson Heller ('93) was honored for being the most recent grad at the Reunion.

The group set the date of April 15 for their Year 2000

Reunion, with plans to remain at Travis AFB in Fairfield.

The Chapter always welcomes new participants. For more information, contact:

Rex ('42) & Hope ('42) Floyd

417 Begonia Boulevard Fairfield, Calif. 94533

Carlos Harrison ('51)

724 Laurel Ave. #201 San Mateo, Calif. 94401

Bob "Red" Wilson ('51)

1650 Glenville Drive San Jose, Calif. 95124

Head for the Hills: Rocky Mountain. Aug. 14

The Rocky Mountain Alumni Reunion returns to the Denver area for the first time in several years - and the reunion is coming up fast!

Peru State College's Rocky Mountain Alumni chapter is planning for a Saturday, Aug. 14 reunion at The Old Neighborhood Restaurant, 7923 Allison Way (near 80th & Wadsworth) in Arvada, Colo. It will be a luncheon gathering according to Chapter President Ellen Hunzeker Hajek ('62).

The chapter encompasses Colorado, Wyoming, western Nebraskan and western

Kansas. For more information contact any of the officers listed below.

Please note the date on your calendar. Invitations will be sent in July.

Ellen Hajek ('62)

12750 W. 6th Place Golden, Co. 80401 ·

Mick ('51) and Pat ('52) Bornemeier 1923 26th Avenue Greeley, Co. 80631

Carol Duerfeldt ('52) 261 Mt. Alice Court Livermore, Co. 80536

Art Brophy ('49) of Loup City, Neb. was voted Valentine's Day King at the Sherman County Senior Center.

Ruth Walker Howe ('49) of Fort Smith, Ark. would have loved to be at the May Reunion with her classmates this past spring, but she and her husband both still work. She has "really put my Peru education to use - 47 years of teaching and no desire to retire." Ruth recently was honored with Fort Smith's "Spirit of the Frontier" award, the highest honor the city can bestow upon its citizens.

Bob Logsdon ('47) of Lincoln, Neb. has been appointed by Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns to a post on the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission. "I have known Bob Logsdon for many years and believe his experience gives him solid credentials to perform as an exceptional member" of the commission, Gov. Johanns noted.

Dr. Jack Maxwell ('46) of Scottsdale, Ariz. hosted a gathering of expatriot Peruvians this past winter. Included on the guest roster were Ansel ('52) and Barbara Bragg ('51) Clayburn, Rex Coatney ('50), Nancy Steck LaVigne, Claud and Rosalie Clarey, and Paul and Phyllis Cowell Menafee.

1950s

Robert Bohlken ('59) of Maryville, Mo. was presented with the International Listening Association's Special Recognition Award in March. The award is given for outstanding service to the ILA for an extended period of time or have provided a unique service to the promotion of listening. Bob, who taught at PSC from 1963- 70, has presented a program at 13 of the last 15 conferences. His wife, the former Mary Riley ('66), is a retired learning disabilities teacher.

Ray Ehlers ('58) of Lexington, Neb. was honored this spring with a "Retirement Roast". Ray was Activities Director at Lexington High School for 29 years. His career was highlighted in newspaper articles in the Lexington and Cozad newspapers, too.

Donald Gibson ('58) of Audubon, Iowa retired from teaching in the spring of 1998. Don taught 5-8 grade band for 40 years. The last 34 years were at the Audubon Community Schools.

William Lutz ('59) of Omaha has retired from the Omaha Public Schools.

(continued on page 9)

of San Jose.

(Photo by Kent Propst)

Home Run for May Reunion

The 1999 May Reunion was a big hit for the nearly fifty 50-year grads and guests who "came home" to Peru State for the annual event.

The two-day (May 7-8) rendezvous attracted alums from Alaska to North Carolina and all points in between. As is usually the case, the 50-year class (1949) had the most representation, with 16 class members present.

Events began Friday with casual strolls around the Campus of A Thousand Oaks and an informal meeting of the minds in the PSC Student Center. The group next moved over to the President's Home for a reception hosted by Dr.

and Mrs. Leonard Skov.

Dinner in the Student Center followed, and things wrapped up with a program at which the alumni did most of the talking (to the surprise of none).

A gorgeous spring Saturday in Peru started with a breakfast and more tales told out of school. Next on the agenda was special seating to watch Peru State confer degrees on its newest batch of alumni.

Lunch and farewells brought the busy weekend to an end.

Next year's May Reunion, which will feature the Class of 1950 as special guests, is scheduled for May 5-6, 2000.

The 49ers

The Class of '49 was well represented on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of its graduation from Peru State in May. Seated are (from left) Betty Nickols Moore, Sara Jane Lyons Hippe, and Jessie Rhoten. Standing are (from left) Bernard Bliefernich, Don Wagner, Willard Redfern, Floyd Heimbuch, Martin Svoboda, Jack Hippe; Robert Paap, Jerry Clayburn, Lloyd Darrow, Art Lindsey, Robert Schemmel, Ben Gillard, and Ollie Joiner.

Classics

Back to show the Class of '49 that the youngsters aren't to have all the fun at the May Reunion were these earlier grads including (front row from left) Ruth Ann Crook Steele ('48), Freddie Drexler ('46), Bob Weber ('39), and Mildred Knoflicek Weber ('39); and (back row from left) Louella Tiemann Adams ('46), Ruth Meister Lienemann ('47), Jean Mesiter Redfern ('48), Bonnie Aufenkamp Heimbuch ('48), Margaret Wellensiek Mann ('47), and Elaine Juilfs Bliefei"nich ('44). Not present when this photo was taken were Joan Thickstun Buhrmann ( '46), Margaret Spellman Harrold ('47) and Bill Rachow ( '47).(Photo by Kent Propst)

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New President ...... From Page 1

The 58-year-old Johnson has a bachelors degree from William Tyndale College, two masters degrees from Eastern Michigan University, and a doctorate from the University of South Florida. He has authored 17 books and some 60 articles; eight of his books are used as college textbooks.

"Dr. Johnson has successful experience with program development and administration, fund raising, community and continuing efforts, and distance learning," noted Dr. Al Gigstad of Nebraska City,

chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges.

"His background in fostering diversity and successful retention and recruitment of students was also a strong selling point. And he specifically talked about ways to extend the Peru State College -service region to encompass a fourstate area," Gigstad said.

"These are the kinds of forward-thinking initiatives we need in the next President of Peru State."

Getting a Preview ·

This group of Peruvians came to the May Reunion to get a preview of what it will be like when their classes celebrate their own 50-year reunions in the next couple of years (front row from left): Eddie Hanna ('50), Betty Rademacher Hanna ('50), Esther Holmes Russell ('51) and Lester Russell ('51), and (back row from left) Don McKim ('50), Ella Meister Johnson ('55), Ed Mincer ('50), and Rex Coatney ('50).

a laugh at the May Reunion breakfast recently were (from left) Margaret Spellman Harrold ('47), Joan Thickstun Burhmqnn ('46), and PSC' s interim President, Leonard Skov. (Photo by Kent Propst)

(Photo by Ken Propst)

(Photo by Kent Propst)

1950s (continued)

John Sweenie ('51) of Broken Bow, Neb. was featured in the local newspaper this past March for his pasttime of cooking. Sweenie's hobby has taken a high-tech turn recently, as he scouts the internet for many new recipes.

Jean Higgins Thayer ('52) of Nebraska City, Neb. has retired after 35 years of service to Otoe County. Jean worked 11 years in the assessor's office followed by eight years as the deputy register of deeds, and completed her service with 16 years as the register of deeds. Jean and her husband hope to spend some time traveling.

1960s

Judy Adams Allgood ('62) of Omaha was recognized this spring for 25 years of service to the Omaha Public Schools.

The Sounds of Excellence

Dr. Thomas L. Ediger, Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Peru State, is the 1998-99 PSC Teaching Excellence Award winner for his work in the classroom and on the stage. Dr. Ediger, who has served the college with distinction for 20 years, is shown directing rehearsal during one of his creations: the annual Piano Extravaganza held each April.

Teaching Excellence Award

To Dr. Thomas Ediger

Dr. Thomas L. Ediger, professor of music at Peru State College, has been awarded the 199899 Teaching Excellence Award for his outstanding work at the college.

Ediger received $1,000 from the Peru State College Foundation in conjunction with the award. The stipend is funded by an endowment created by the Class of' 40.

Ediger expressed his appreciation, saying, 'Tm very honored to receive any recognition of this type. I really like teaching and working with students. I'm very, very pleased to receive this award."

Since '79

Ediger joined Peru State College in 1979. Since 1987, he has been Director of Choral Activities there, serving as conductor of the PSC Concert Choir, the Madrigal Singers and the Misty Blues Show Choir.

He describes his primary goal when working with student choral ensembles as achieving "superior musicianship and that special 'group spirit'.

"I believe in setting high standards; then I work with students from where they are to bring them up to those standards," Ediger said. "It is important to me that students excel and remain excited about music and learning."

Under his leadership, PSC's student Music Educators National Conference (MENC) Chapter was selected as the 1997 Collegiate Music Chapter of the Year by the Nebraska Music Educators Association.

Extravaganza

Ediger is founder and director of the PSC Piano Extravaganza, which since 1990 has brought more than 200 pianists to Peru's campus for a special program each year.

He also coordinates an annual high school

show choir festival that involves show choirs from approximately 40 high schools.

Ediger serves as the president of the Nebraska Music Teachers Association and is a member of the National Advisory Committee for the Music Teachers National Association Commissioned Composers Program. Ediger has also served as State Convention Chair and Competitions Chair for the NMTA.

Ediger also is the current Chair of Peru State's Faculty Senate and has served as the Chair of the General Education Committee and as Chair of the Rank Promotion and Tenure Committee at Peru.

Provide opportunities

Ediger stated, "I believe excellence in teaching means active leadership in the college campus and in providing important opportunities on the campus for area high school musicians and our own students."

He credits various teachers with providing musical inspiration while he was growing up in Aurora, Nebraska. The son of a piano teacher mother, young Ediger sang in church and school and played the trumpet with various school bands.

His college education at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley found him drawn to vocal music and his "first love," the piano.

Ediger is a co-founder and performing member of Aeolian II, a PSC faculty trumpet and piano duo. He and Dr. David Edris, his Aeolian II partner, have performed often both on and off PSC's campus.

"For me teaching is very much like musical performance," Ediger said. "I hope I am always improving and always enthusiastic. It is a privilege to be a college teacher."

Jim Butts ('69) of Chesapeak, Va. has been named as TRW's Military Manager and primary coordinator to integrate the new Joint Simulation Systems (JSIMS) into multiple sites worldwide. JSIMS is becoming the Department of Defense's tool to train U.S. and multinational staffs using computers to simulate military forces moving, shooting and flying.

Louis Fritz ('66) of Verdon, Neb. left Nebraska at the end of March to begin a 19-day hiking trip on the Appalachian Trail. Louie, who retired as a physical education teacher at the Falls City Public Schools last year, was an outstanding runner for PSC.

Jane Givehand Glover ('69) recently helped open the Kente Cultural Center in New London, Conn. The Center offers cultural programs designed to promote AfricanAmerican artists while encouraging self-expression in children. For the last decade, Jane has been coordinator of children's services for the Groton, Conn. Public Library.

Mike Hunt ('69) of Tekamah, Neb. is taking early retirement from the Tekamah-Herman Public Schools, where he has worked for the past 27 years. He has taught PE and coached football and basketball.

James L. Kemp ('61) retired in 1996 after 25 years of teaching, the last years of which were dedicated to the Highland School District in Cowiche, Wash.

Bernice Marfice Kopetzky ('66) of Falls City, Neb. was selected "Woman of the Year" by the Falls City Jaycees. Bernice is a retired teacher. She was a Special Education teacher in the Falls City Public Schools for 27 years. She has also been active in many other organizations in the Falls City area.

Joseph Perina ('64) of Omaha has retired from the Omaha Public Schools.

Carol Nickels Pfister (summer '66) of Hiawatha, Kan. led her seventh grade basketball team to a perfect 11-0 season and Big 7 league championship. It was the first-ever unbeaten season for her Robinson Middle School girls program.

Wayne Shafer ('63) of Stella, Neb. has retired after 36 years in the education field. Wayne taught two years at McCook, Neb. before accepting a position at Southeast Consolidated where he was a Social Studies teacher. He also coached at Southeast and served as the Athletic Director for a number of years.

(continued on page I 0)

(Photo by Elizabeth Olsen)

Find 'Em Fast!

Keeping track of the 9,700 or so Peru Stater's on our mailing list is a tough job. We're hopeful that you might make our work a little easier.

Below is a list of alumni and friends who we have lost track of in recent months. Oftentimes, if we don't relocate them right away, they will remain on the dreaded "lost alumni" roster for years.

If you can help us with a current, home address on any of the following, please forward the information to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421; e-mail propst@bobcat.peru.edu, or call ( 402) 872-2225.

Thanks!

Suanne Larson Harmon - 1997

Edward Kauthen - 1997

Kelly Ward - 1997

Michael D. Rucker - 1996

Felicia L. Medley - 1994

Ryan Harshaw - 1994

Sara Grafton Pruitt - 1994

President Joy

Jerry D. Joy ('64), a southeast Nebraska native who taught and coached and was an administrator at PSC from 1975-90, has been named President of National American University, headquartered in Rapid City, S.D. (Photo contributed)

Jerry Joy Appointed President Of National American University

Jerry D. Joy ('64), longtime Peru State College coach and administrator, has been named President of the National American University main campus in Rapid City, S.D. Joy also will serve as Chief Operating Officer of NAU's extended learning sites in New Mexico, South Dakota, Minnesota, Colorado, and Missouri.

The Shubert, Neb. native returned to Peru State in 1975 after coaching at Doane College and at Friends University in Kansas. He is credited with turning around the Bobcat football program while compiling a 40-36-2 mark in eight seasons.

Joy also served as Athletic Director and as Chair of the Physical Education division. He left coaching after the 1981 season and spent over eight years as Dean of Student Services at Peru State.

Since 1990, Joy has been Vice President of Student and Community Affairs at Western New Mexico University.

Joy and his wife Christina (Banks '88), former manager of the Bobcat Bookstore at PSC, moved to Rapid City in June. His term at National American begins July 1. NAU has an enrollment of some 7,200 and a $24 million annual budget.

Lost at 25

A quarter of a century ago, these proud Peruvians went forth in search of success. And have they found it?

We can't tell you, because somewhere along the way these members of the Class of '74 became lost - as in, they were added to our "lost alumni" roster.

We'd like to get them back

on the Peru Stater mailing list. If you can help us out, we'd be grateful.

Send current, home addresses for any of these Peruvians to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or e-mail to propst@bobcat.peru.edu, or call (402) 872-2225.

Antsey, Dean Christman, Ronald W. Craft, Roger

Melissa Parsons - 1993

Bruce Combs - 1992

Cynthia Walla Mowery - 1992

Theresa Glockel Pyles - 1990

Scott Hoefs - 1989

Kevin Mowery - 1989

Jeff C. Spencer - 1989

Douglas Thewke - 1987

Deb Pfeil Miller - 1985

Thomas F. Michael - 1978

Robin C. Simmons - 1976

Richard D. Carlson - 1962

Alvin Guenther - 1962

Pat Shelly Carlson - 1961

Joan Schumaker - 1960

Elvin L. Clausen - 1956

Dorothy Coulter Boeche1951

Darlene Lutz Foged - 1949

Fred Cole - 1933

Wanda Willmore Gray - 1926

LaVerne Walker - no year Thanks, Detectives!

Thanks to these Peru Stater's who helped find lost alums: Curt Bachle ('79), Joyce Carman ('61), Margaret Spellman Harrold ('47), Elizabeth Jane Burlier Patterson ('70), and Kathleen Hagan Rhoten ('59).

Doxon, Joanne (Grosserode) Griffin, Penny Hillman, Cindy Hunter, William Jackson, Charles Kelly, Michael L. McLaughlin, Patty Montague, Ananias Nather, Ziyad Rakes, Merle K. Schofield, William Siems, Dennis V. Stukenholtz, Anna M.

1960s (continued)

Jim Sprague ('66) retired in June 1998 after 32 years of teaching in Michigan. His last 28 years were spent at Thornapple Kellogg High School in Middleville, teaching social studies and coaching basketball. Last August, Jim and wife Jennifer moved to Homer, Alaska where he coaches basketball at Community Christian High and also substitutes at schools on the Kenai Peninsula.

John Torpy ('69) has been appointed Technical Director for Midwest Laboratories in Omaha. He oversees technical operations of each department for the agricultural, food and environmental testing services. He has been with Midwest since 1975.

John Werner ('61) of Allen, Neb. is retiring this fall as Superintendent of the Allen Public Schools. He's been with Allen for 13 years. Prior to that he worked at schools in Nelson, Loup City and Raymond Central in Nebraska. His wife is the former Carol Downey ('58).

Roger Witt ('62) of Falls City, Neb. was selected "Boss of the Year" by the Falls City Jaycees. He is an elementary principal with the Falls City Public Schools.

1970s

Sue Weiler Antes ('79) of Syracuse, Neb. received the 1999 Syracuse-Dunbar-Avoca Education Association Community Service Award in May for her service to the school.

Sharon Norvell Bogle ('74) of Humboldt, Neb. will be retiring from Falls City public schools after 30 years in the classroom.

Jean Sachs Collins ('79) of Jacksonville, Fla. works in sales for a scuba equipment manufacturer. She does technical diving for the company as well.

Jon Fisher ('70) of Gering, Neb. has accepted a position as ESU #4 Administrator effective July 1. The Educational Service Unit office is located in nearby Auburn, Neb.

Mitzi Stehlik Hoback ('76) of Nebraska City, Neb. has been inducted into the Golden Cougar Hall of Fame by the Conestoga (Neb.) Public Schools Foundation. Mitzi is the gifted coordinator for the Conestoga schools and has led their gifted program since 1986.

Janet Nixon Kirkendall ('74) of Auburn, Neb. presented a workshop at the 26th annual Nebraska State Reading Conference in Kearney. The workshop was entitled, "Literature and the Arts: A Multicultural Connection." The workshop was presented to elementary classroom teachers.

Jim Patera ('71) has been appointed Superintendent of the South O'Brien (Iowa) school system. He had been high school principal in LeMars, Iowa. His wife is the former Cheryl Clayburn ('71).

Mark ('71) and Kathi Reuter ('81) Weiler of Syracuse, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Zane Michael, born in March. He was welcomed by brother Brett.

1980s

Susan Richardson Bassinger ('83) is a kindergarten and resource aide for the Nemaha Valley, Neb. school system.

(continued on page 11)

Steve Lewis Joins State College Board

by George Lauby Editor · Lexington (Neb.) Clipper-Herald

A Lexington man has been asked to serve on the governing board of the Nebraska State College system.

· Steve Lewis, director of administrative services at TriCounty Hospital, was asked by Gov. Mike Johanns to join the board. The appointment was approved by the Legislature.

'Tm honored, I'm humbled by it," Lewis said. "I think it's an honor when the governor selects you to do a job, and I hope to do it to the best of my ability."

Lewis attended his first board meeting, May 14, in Lincoln. He will serve a sixyear term.

The board oversees the operations of the three Nebraska state colleges: Peru, Chadron and Wayne. '79 Grad

Lewis is a 1979 graduate of Peru State, where he received a bachelor of science degree in medical technology. He obtained a master's degree in business administration from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in 1993. He is a member of the board of directors of the Lexington Foundation and an active member of the First Christian Church.

The Lewises moved to Lexington in 1981, where Steve took over as department head of the medical laboratory. He was named to his current post in 1995.

Lewis said he received a call of inquiry from state senator Floyd Vrtiska of Table Rock, who asked him if he would be willing to serve on the governing board. "I had been suggested to him by a source," Lewis said, "whom I still don't know. I said I would probably consider it."

The governor's call came a few days later.

Lewis replaced board member and former chairman Rick Kolkman from North Platte. Kolkman's term expired in January.

'Serve citizens'

"My goal is to make sure the state college system is the best it can be to serve the citizens of the state who are interested in higher education," Lewis said. "All three schools are excellent, and I will do

1980s (continued)

Mike Breault ('87) has joined the Omaha State Bank as an assistant vice president and manager of retail banking. He had been working with First National Bank of Omaha.

Rhonda Schroeder Chab ('84) and husband Jerry of Pleasant Dale, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Ryan Allen, born in January. He was welcomed home by a brother Robert Joseph.

Candace Cotton ('88) is a Field Executive-East/Outdoor Programs for the Homestead Girl Scout Council. She had previously worked for SITEL Corporation and Werner Enterprises in Omaha. Candy will be working with volunteers and girls in southeast Nebraska. She Jives in Auburn.

Mark Fankhauser ('84) and his wife Lynn are proud parents of daughter Kanani Kai. They live in Omaha.

Board Exoerience

Steve ('79) and Shirley (Patterson '79) Lewis of Lexington, Neb. will be enjoying an even closer relationship with their alma mater since Steve was appointed this spring to a six-year term on the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges. Steve is no novice in campus governance, having served as president of the student body during his days on campus; however, Shirley has even more direct knowledge of the workings of the system, as she worked in the Board Office several years ago.

what I can do to make them better.

"Sometimes the state colleges have suffered shortfalls for facility repairs, so I hope I can help see that the facilities are kept up."

The three state colleges are open-enrollment, open-access institutions that offer a full undergraduate program, with an emphasis in education, according to a state college system spokesperson.

In-state tuition - at $59.50 per credit hour - is the same at all three colleges and is the lowest of any four-year college program in Nebraska.

Total 1997-98 enrollment was 8,693 students.

Proud alum

Lewis described himself as a contributing alumnus of Peru State and a member of the booster club. He has visited with state senator Jim Cudaback, a member of the Legislature's state building committee, about the condition of the buildings. Cudaback told him there is some shortage of funds for building repairs and maintenance, Lewis said.

Vrtiska steered the debate

(Photo contributed)

over the relocation of Peru State to Nebraska City in 1998. Following a bill sponsored by Vrtiska, the Legislature near the end of the 1998 session voted to retain the campus at its· present location.

"I think the Legislature has worked things out," Lewis said. "It's been a tough two years, because of the uncertainty, but they're looking at a new beginning down there. They are Nebraska's oldest college, and that tradition will take them a long ways."

Lewis and his wife Shirley have lived in Lexington for 18 years. Shirley, who worked for the state college board of trustees from 1978-81, is an administrative assistant for the City of Lexington. They have two sons: Nathan 16, and Bryan, 13.

(Editor's Note: This article is reprinted with the permission of its author. Steve Lewis grew up in Superior, Neb. and was active in college affairs while on campus, and served as president of the student government).

Doug Goltz ('86) of Falls City, Neb. has completed another successful year of coaching. His Sacred Heart Irish boys basketball team won the Class Dl state championship this spring in Lincoln. Since taking over the Sacred Heart team he has had 13 winning season with a 264-43 record, won five state championships, 11 conference championships, and has been named the state's Coach of the Year by both the Lincoln Journal-Star and the Omaha World-Herald. Doug also coaches football at Sacred Heart and is an assistant for the track team.

Vince ('86) and Bonnie Mick ('86) Henzel of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Alex Michael, born in February. He was welcomed home by twin sisters.

Marla Moody Jones ('84) of Auburn, Neb. presented a workshop at the 26th annual Nebraska State Reading Conference in Kearney entitled "Literature and the Arts: A Multicultural Connection." Art and music provided the motivational background to a greater understanding of multicultural literature.

Carrie Nelson Krickbaum ('85) and her husband Bruce are proud parents of son Quinn Nelson, born in March in Fort Morgan, Colo. She is on leave of absence from her position with the Colorado State Forest Service.

Leigh Moss LaRosa ('87) of Plattsmouth, Neb. was an assistant girls basketball coach for the Lady Blue Devils this year. The team earned a spot in the Class B State Tournament with a 12-9 record. They were defeated in the first round of the tournament by the state champions.

Aaron B. Larson ('80) will have his first book published this fall. The Weird Western Adventures of Haakon Jones is a collection of 36 science fiction/fantasy/horror stories concerning adventures on the American frontier. Aaron, who. lives in Chamberlain, S.D., is the author of over a hundred published stories and poems.

Jack Moles ('80) of Cook, Neb. was coach for the Nemaha Valley Schools Academic Decathlon Team which won the·State Championship in February.

Mark Ortmeier ('85) of Harvard, Neb. led his Lady Cardinals basketball team to the Class D-1 State Tournament. They entered the tournament with a 20-2 record. and were defeated in the finals.

Scott Persigehl ('88) of Omaha was an assistant girls basketball coach for the Omaha Westside Warriors who entered the Class A State Basketball Tournament with a 20-2 record. The Warriors won the Class A title.

(continued on page 14)

For Jack Hamilton, retirement means a lot of what others look forward to. More time with family, golf, civic projects, fishing, hobbies, that sort of thing.

Oh yes, and three more years of work for Peru State College, too.

The longtime PSC business professor and current chair of the Division of Business has entered into a "phased retirement" agreement with the college he has served since 1972. He'll work one-third time for a third of his salary through the 2001-2002 academic year.

Hamilton displays obvious excitement about the additional free time his partial retirement will afford him - but tempers that enthusiasm when he looks at the near future for Peru State.

"I almost wish I weren't retiring," Hamilton admitted. With the changes ahead for the college, "We have a chance to put our stamp on Peru State like never before."

Ironically, Hamilton pointed to the often-agonizing process of developing goals or "benchmarks" for Peru State as a principal source of his unbridled optimism.

Excitement

"Sure it was tough," he said of the months-long process involving thousands of hours by campus and community personnel. "But when it came together I saw more excitement than I've ever seen on this campus."

Hamilton has experienced his share of ups and downs at Peru State. When he arrived in 1972, longtime President Neal Gomon was retiring and enrollment was getting ready to decline sharply in the wake of the Vietnam War. The col1e ge was faced with gut-

wrenching layoffs of personnel.

The next few years brought more tubulence and controversy for Peru State; no less than five administrators headed the college between 1972 and '78.

The arrival of President Larry Tangeman in 1978 ushered in an era of stability that led to growth in the 1980s and '90s.

But a series of events the last two years again plunged the campus into controversy and called the future of the college into question.

Focus attention

Hamilton views it all with his characteristic stoicism. The controversy has refocused attention on the college that will lead to additional resources and positive change, he believes, and has forced the college to focus its own attention on what it wants to be in the years ahead.

A strong supporter and advocate of Peru State's offcampus programs, that is where Hamilton will devote his one-third time to PSC in the next three years. He'll be recruiting and advising business students in the college's off-campus programs.

When Jack Hamilton arrived at Peru State in 1972, off-campus programs were just beginning. And Hamilton was himself teaching on the college level for the first time after stops at Kansas high schools in Altamont, Tribune and Hazelton.

'Saw opportunity'

"I saw a real opportunity here to help develop the business program," Hamilton said. Also, the Waverly, Kan. native "was looking for a home" and a place to raise his family along with his wife Ronda, who herself retired a couple of years ago from a teaching

career made possible by her degree earned at Peru State.

Their four children all earned degrees from Peru State - Elizabeth ('80, Kansas City, Mo.), Alice ('83, Highland, Kan.), Becky Girard ('90, Leavenworth, Kan.) and Dan ('95, Stanton, Neb.).

And make a home they did. Jack Hamilton has bee:Q extremely active in civic affairs, be it his work as a Boy Scout troop leader, serving on the local bank board, an appointment to the Nebraska Professional Practices Commission, membership on the Nemaha County Hospital board, or involvement with the local Kiwanis club or the Peru (Continued on Page 18)

IDave Pippert is someone who knows the importance of mixing together the right elements.

The longtime Peru State College chemistry professor and chair of the Science and Technology Division for 22 years has enjoyed the chemistry between faculty, students and staff.

But Dr. Pippert is· about to try a new formula. He retires from Peru State in early July.

Though he hasn't hit the ripe old age of 65, Dr. Pippert said "38 years is long enough," referring to a professional career spent entirely on the college level.

"There are lots of things I want to do, and I just haven't had the time," he added.

Two jobs

Pippert, born in Virden, Ill. and raised in Rock Island, Ill., ha; had only one other job in his career. He was with Upper Iowa University in Fayette from 1961- 77 before joining Nebraska's first college as Chair of the Natural Sciences Division, as it was then called.

"I thought my background and experience would be applicable to the needs of Peru State," Pippert said. "I felt I could make a difference here. And we liked the area and the people, too."

The "we" he spoke of includes his wife Ginny. Together they raised three sons - Greg, now in St. Cloud, Minn.; Chris, in Wichita, Kan.; and Tim, soon to move to Minneapolis. Not surprisingly, each has advanced degrees in

pethe sciences.

The right place

The move to Peru State 22 years ago clearly wasn't a spontaneous act on the part of the Pippert family. After 16 years at Upper Iowa, they were comfortable and would only move for the right reasons and the right opportunity.

"We came here for the long haul," Pippert said. "Roots are very important to us. We assumed that we would stay here (Peru State)."

Indeed, they have no plans to move from their Auburn home. But with family scattered around, it may resemble more of a "base camp" at times.

In terms of a base camp, plans to completely renovate and add to Peru State's 71year-old Hoyt Science HallPippert' s home base for all his 22 years - is "something I feel good about.

"I feel like I'm leaving on a high," he said. 'Tm leaving the division in really good shape - the best faculty we've had, a new .facility on the way.

Though the veteran educator and administrator has seen both the ups and the downs for Peru State over the years, one thing has remained a constant - the nurturing atmosphere of the college.

"The difference between Peru State and many other places is the good and caring faculty," he said. "The faculty get close to the students and challenge them to live up to their potential - that is one of

our greatest contributions to the state.

"We take students that have little self-confidence and who don't know what they are capable of, and help them to set goals higher than they knew were possible," he continued. "Most of those who went on to graduate school were not sure they could make it academically.

Finally, recognition

"Finally, people are recognizing the contributions Peru State College makes to the State of Nebraska," he added. "It's been a long time coming."

Unlike some of PSC's Division Chairs, Pippert never completely left the classroom despite his administrative duties.

"It's been my working with the students and feeling good about it that has kept me going," he said. "The highlight of my day always was teaching."

As one would expect, even when pondering retirement, Pippert approached it in what can only be described as a logical fashion.

"At the top of the list is time with our family," he said. "I particularly want to enjoy our grandchildren.

"I expect to keep busy. I don't want to tie myself down - I want to try new things and see what happens," he concluded.

That's the Dave Pippert formula for retirement success, and he's anxious to experiment with it.

Jack Hamilton

Dave Pippert

After spending over three decades teaching business on the college level, Peru State College's Russell Beldin thinks its about time he gets down to business.

Beldin retired from PSC at the end of the spring term. Actually, it was his second retirement from PSC; he had announced his retirement a year ago, but agreed to another year when the college was unable to fill his position.

Instead of lecture halls and late nights grading papers, Beldin now plans to shift his full attention to another interest - real estate.

Perhaps "full attention" isn't quite accurate; the veteran educator does intend to dodge the cold Midwestern winters by spending part of each winter in Hawaii.

One of the most popular of Peru State's faculty members, Beldin thus ends a teaching career that began at PSC in 1970. He doubted that he would even come to PSC those many years ago, much less finish his career here.

"After I interviewed with (former department chair) Dr. Vern Siegner and (former PSC Dean) Dr. Keith Melvin, I went away believing we might not be the right fit," Beldin recalled.

Short Stay Planned

As one might suspect of a business teacher, the issue boiled down to money. "But they met my salary requirement, so I came. I thought I would teach here two, three, maybe four years, get my doctorate and move on," Beldin said.

But instead of investing time and

money in a doctoral program, Beldin came to believe he'd yield a greater return investing his money in real estate. After all, he had studied real estate and taught classes in the discipline.

Teach it, do it

"One day I thought to myself, 'Why teach someone else to do what I can do myself?'," Beldin said. "So that is where I put my money. It's proven to be a lot of work but also financially rewarding - even though it diverted me from getting a doctorate."

Beldin owns property in both Nebraska and in his native South Dakota, including property near Madison, S.D. where he spends his summers. Beldin earned his Bachelors degree at the former Dakota State College in Madison.

Eventually, after about 10 years at Peru State, "I realized I wouldn't move on. I enjoyed the school, enjoyed the people, and I enjoyed most of all working closely with the students."

Much has changed in the years since then. The Assistant Professor of Business lately has taught a normal load of 12 credit hours, but recalls that "When I first came I taught 18 hours. It was crazy!

"In '73 I became department chair, and we started adding classes," he said. "We needed to build up the number of business students and couldn't afford to add faculty.

"So I taught virtually everything," he said. "I taught typewriting and real estate, money and banking, insurance, you name it. I'd add a new course and then assign it to myself."

Rise, fall & rise

In Beldin's early years at Peru . State, enrollment was at then-record levels - partially due to the Vietnam War, which drove many young people into college. When the war ended, enrollment declined at PSC and other colleges. It's now on the rebound again.

Beldin, who was second only to Dr. Daryl Long in years of service to Peru State, is anxious to "be more actively involved in the management of my real estate interests. "I have to be doing something with my time," he laughed.

At the same time, he knows he will miss "working with students and the close relationships with them that you can get only at a small school."

"I hope they will say of me that I cared about them and about their individual successes," he said. "I hope they feel that I did my very best to provide a quality education and to motivate them."

by Debbie Sailors

Peru State College students, faculty and staff lost their "daily dose of cheerfulness" on June 4 when Marilyn Sayer, longtime PSC mail clerk and switchboard operator, retired after 20 years of service.

The friendly "voice of Peru State College" since August 1979 will be missed greatly, as many fond wishes from the campus community indicated on a jumbo retirement card presented to Sayer.

Besides Sayer's cheerfulness, her ready smile and caring and kindness were mentioned often among the numerous messages, as well as her renowned baking skills. More than a few well wishers commented on how much Sayer's popular homemade cookies will be missed.

Sayer is also remembered on Peru's campus for lending a receptive ear or a comforting shoulder to students, faculty and staff, earning "a special place in our hearts," according to another card inscription.

Nancy Reeves, institutional research specialist at PSC for 25 years and a close friend of Sayer's, commented on Sayer's baking: "Marilyn has been feeding all of us for years and years and years. We're going to miss her baking for us." Reeves jokingly added that perhaps prospective applicants for Sayer's job be screened for adequate baking skills.

Award from students

Sayer was recognized by Peru's Student Senate for her service to the college with the first-ever Barb Lewellen Award. Student Senate chose Sayer to receive the award from nominations by Peru students, faculty and staff.

The Lewellen honor, named after the longtime and now-retired Student Programs Director, includes a commemorative trophy, a cash award and recognition on a plaque in PSC's Student Center.

Sayer considers herself lucky. "I've enjoyed my work. Most people cannot say that they love coming to work, but I have - every day." She says she has especially liked her time with the workstudy students assigned to her office each school year.

"I've had some great kids," she says. "I can't begin to name all the great kids we've had working ih this office."

Phone, mail

As PSC's switchboard operator, Sayer answered at least 200 incoming calls each day. Many alumni calling Pern took the opportunity to chat with Marilyn, updating her on marriages, births, new jobs and other news.

According to Sayer, PSC's mailroom, which offers services similar to a U.S. post office, processes several bags of mail and about 30 packages every day for delivery to approximately 125 campus mailboxes.

Sayer began her PSC career in the

Marilyn Sayer

basement of the Administration Building, where the mailroom and switchboard were located for 16 of her 20 years. The last four were spent in the present mailroom location in the Old Gym.

Sayer and her husband of 43 years, Tom, moved to Rising City after residing in Nemaha County all of their lives. Marilyn grew up in Auburn and graduated from Auburn High School before marrying Tom and moving to Peru with him, where they lived ever since. Tom is retired from construction work.

Time with grandkids

The couple raised three daughters in Peru: Linda, Kathy, and Cindy. Linda now lives in Denver and is engaged to be married this summer. Kathy married PSC graduate Bob Parsley ('80) and the couple lives in Rising City with their son, Jeremy.

Cindy, a 1989 graduate of Peru State, is married to Randy Peterson. They live in Bloomington, Ill., with their sons, six-year-old Trenton and fouryear old twins Bryce and Jake.

The Sayers, proud and devoted grandparents, have traveled to all of 17-year-old Jeremy's football games, sometimes making the five-hour roundtrip to Rising City in one night. The Sayer's move will make supporting their grandson's football team much easier.

Marilyn says that after all the years of working 40 hours a week, she's looking forward to just doing what she wants to do, without having any set schedule.

Fond farewells

However, Sayer was not looking forward to saying goodbye to all the friends she's made at Peru State College.

"The worst day will be when I pull out of here for the last time," she says. Asked if she' !I shed a few tears that day, she replied, "Heavens, yes! I already have," referring to a recent surprise retirement party given by her work-study students, who, she said, had tears in their eyes as well.

No replacement has yet been hired for Sayer. Reeves commented, "They're going to have a very difficult time finding a replacement for Marilyn Sayer - very difficult. Marilyn has been very good to the entire PSC campus."

And good for the college, too.

Russell Beldin

1980s (continued)

Becki Young Propst ('80) of Peru, Neb. was honored as the "Citizen of the Year" by the Peru Kiwanis Club. This award is given to a person who has contributed significantly and consistently to the betterment of the Peru community. Becki is active in many community organizations - Pres. of Peru Chamber of Commerce, financial adviser for Peru Historical Foundation, Board of Directors for the Nemaha County Development Alliance, PEO, and the Peru Community Church to name a few.

Jeff ('86) and Nancy Neels ('88) Reed of David City, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Travis Jeffrey, born in January. He was welcomed home by a brother Ryan and a sister Taylor.

Thesvians Pitch In

Several Alums responded when the call went out for help on PSC' s first theatrical production in four years this spring, including (clockwise from top left) Pat Venditti ('92) of Omaha, Sara Anton ('98) of Clarinda, Iowa, Heather Cohrs Stutheit

'The Mousetrap' Brings Theatre ·sack To PSC

The first mainstage theatrical production at Peru State College in four years was Agatha Christie's classic mystery "The Mousetrap."

A cast of eight Peru State College students presented the production April 8-11. Dr. Charles Harper, Professor of Speech and Theatre at Peru

State, directed "The Mousetrap" with help from Dr. Royal Eckert, Emeritus Professor of Speech and Theatre, and by theatre alumnus Heather Cohrs Stutheit ('95) of Humboldt.

The theatre program had. been suspended because of administrative decisions made

several years ago. Harper applauded former interim President, Richard Flynn and current interim President, Leonard Skov for supporting the return of live theatre at PSC.

Harper reported strong attendance figures for "The Mousetrap"'s four-day run.

PSC Benchmarks Provide Blueprint to Progress

A year ago when Nebraska's legislature instructed the state's Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education to conduct an indepth study of Peru State College and report its findings, no one was certain of the end result.

Late last November the CCPE presented its report. Of three options - relocating the college; closing the college; or maintaining and improving the college - the Commission opted for the latter, much to the delight of alumni, area citizens, and many others.

But strings were attached: the college was charged with developing a set of "benchmarks," or goals and objectives, to fundamentally alter and improve the way Peru State College operates.

And this sweeping document, which impacts literally every facet of Peru State College, had to be ready by April 1 - just four months.

The project, essentially a comprehensive and campuswide Strategic Plan, is as important to the future of Peru State College as any in its

132-year history.

Nine committees

So dozens of Peru State College faculty, students and staff, along with area officials, some alumni, and PSC Foundation members formed into nine different committees to formulate the plan. Dr. Jerome V. Martin, interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, was the principal coordinator of the project and author of its final report.

Individuals on the committees spent thousands of hours working on their piece of the puzzle. Methodically, each group built its own report; each report was reviewed by a steering committee and then incorporated into the final document.

PSC officials then presented it to the State College Board of approval and then to the Coordinating Commission. A few weeks later it was presented to the Legislature's Education and its Appropriations committees.

(Continued on Page 21)

Janine Uldrich Saltzman ('83) of Lincoln, Neb. recently accepted a position as Administrative Assistant with Brown's Best Foods/Innovative Grain Technologies in Lincoln. BBF/IGT are bean and grain plants that ship products all over the United States and abroad. Janine previously worked for Crete Carrier Corporation. She is the mother of Clarisa, Michele and Ethan and the step-mother of Michael and Robert.

Tom Shea, football coach at Peru State from 1985-9 l, has been named head football coach at William Penn College in Oskaloosa, Iowa.

Brad Smith ('89) of Omaha has joined Ryder, Rosacker, McCue & Huston Insurance as a life and health insurance specialist. He previously served as sales manager at Valmont Industries.

Cynthia Potter Stalder ('81) and husband Darwin of Humboldt, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Laura Ann, born in March. She was welcomed home by two sisters, Ashley and Jamie, and a brother Dustin.

Paula Kite Winkelman ('82) of Auburn, Neb. has been promoted to financial advisor with Waddell & Reed. Paula was previously an advertising manager at The Auburn Newspapers.

1990s

Val Richardson Adams ('97) has accepted a new position and will be teaching junior and senior high math for the Crete, Neb. public schools next year.

Violet Aden ('98) is a juvenile protection counselor for San Patricio County in Texas.

Travis ('97) and Amanda Mayfield (attd. '96-'97) Allgood of Essex, Iowa are proud parents of a daughter, Grace Nicole, born in May. She was welcomed home by a brother, Kody.

Kristi Cummins Baker ('95) has been awarded the Outstanding Local Adviser of the Year citation by the South Dakota Future Business Leaders of America organization. She will be chair of the state FBLA Board of Directors for 1999-2000. Kristi teaches in Kadoka, S.D., which is where her husband Dennis, a PSC student, will student teach next year.

Julie Ramsey Bauman ('95) of Falls City, Neb. was one of six finalists for the Nebraska Young Careerist award presented by the Nebraska Business and Professional Women. She works for Prosser Professional Corp.

(continued on page 15)

('95) of Humboldt, and Russ Crouch ('99) of Peru.

(Photo by Elizabeth Olsen)

Model builder discovers sailboats

by Karen Larson "Good Old Boat" Magazine

Tom Thomas ('79) is not a sailor - not yet - a fact that can be easily forgiven once you've met him. As an artist, he recognizes the beauty in sailboats, and his enthusiasm is so contagious you want to take him sailing.

He's been promised rides by sailors all over the country. Once he's cashed in all those IOUs, it's a sure bet Tom will be scheming to buy his own sailboat. For now, he builds models of sailboats.

While his artistic training is quite extensive, Tom's talents have turned toward model building in recent years. Of these, "I especially like the sailboats," he says, "They' re designed and built more in cooperation with the water and the forces of nature than a powerboat."

To understand what moves a man who understands sailing so well without having been on the water is to paint "a portrait of the artist as a young man." Tom was the kid next door (in Falls City, Neb.) who gathered up empty fruit crates from the corner market, dragged them home, and used the lumber and nails to create pirate ships, airplanes, and gokarts.

Art degree

He made balsa wood models of planes depicted in flying magazines. He took oil painting and watercolor lessons and went on to earn a degree in art.

"At the time, I hadn't really focused on art as a way of making a living but used it primarily for my own personal enjoyment. That's how I expressed myself when I was troubled or feeling good, or when I just needed to do something for myself," he says.

Tom worked for the Missouri Pacific Railroad during the summers between college terms, and the railroad was quick to hire him full time after he finished college. Art became a hobby one that didn't surface often until he hit a stressful period in his life when a job transfer caused a family relocation.

As Tom recalls, "I hadn't been doing any artwork for some time, and then all of a sudden, I couldn't do enough of it. When my wife, Lori,

Nautical

asked me to make her a birdhouse, that was the stimulus that inspired the model making. Of course, if you are going to do anything, you might as well go overboard, so I built a two-story colonial birdhouse."

Model home

Tom's neighbor liked the concept and hired him to build a model of his home for his wife for Christmas. Tom realized that he might unintentionally be creating a small business.

"A person's home, grandmother's house, barn, or church is a very personal place which invokes personal memories," Tom says. "I enjoy being able to capture those memories in a three-dimensional art form."

Creating models of buildings led to an interest in developing models of boats. "I've always been interested in boats of all kinds. My first model was rough, but I thought I had the right idea. I just needed more information.

"I started going to the library and reading everything I could find on boat design, boat history, early designs, and so on," he says.

Hobby, business

Meanwhile, Tom's hobby was becoming a nifty little part-time business. One thing seemed to lead to another. A model of a Victorian home for one client drew the attention of Victoria Magazine in New York City.

The feature editor asked Tom if they could photograph the model for their Christmas issue. Not too long after that the Kansas City Star magazine

1990s (continued)

Sue Baumann ('98) is a family development associate for the Southeast Nebraska Community Action Council in Nebraska City.

PSC baseball coach Mark Bayliss and wife Tammy are proud parents of a son, Seth Ryan, born in February. Seth was welcomed home by a sister, Kelsea. Tammy is the college nurse.

Jerry L. Breazile ('96) of Auburn, Neb. 'ed certification as an Economic Development ·tce Professional from the National Development Council. :rry is director for the Nebraska Business Development Ce PSC.

Jason D. Brewer ('92) of Gretna, N received his Master of Science in Education degn::e in Industrial Technology from PSC this spring.

featured Tom.

A hand-crafted sailboat requires hours of detail work, so the price of one of these models gives one pause. Customer Martha Trammell said, however, that she didn't experience an instant of hesitation about the project once she'd met Tom and seen his work.

Since it was his first sailboat commission, Tom says, "I was a little intimidated by the project at first, but once I got started I enjoyed it immensely."

Martha adds, "Tom is quite humble about his work. I have an art background and I can say with confidence that he is very talented."

Built to last

Tom's philosophy is, as he says, "to create something that is very special for the owner. I build my models entirely by hand. In today's modern world, there are too many mass-produced items available. I want to build something that will last.

The recipients of these special works of art often invite Tom to come along on a boat ride. Before long we sailors will have made him one of us. It's just a matter of time. Perhaps the real winner will be the lucky sailor who is able to introduce Tom to the passion we call sailing.

Tom's address is:

Spotwood Studio

P.O. Box 544 Kearney, MO 64060

816-628-4336

E-mail spotwood@qni.com

http://www.qni.com/-spotwood

John Campin ('98) is a fifth grade teacher in the Omaha Public School system.

Joanne Catlett ('93) of Auburn, Neb. received her Master of Science in Education degree in Pedagogy from PSC this spring.

Deitra Hartman Class ('94) and husband Jamie of Seneca, Kan. are proud parents of a daughter, Gwyneth Paige, born in March.

Todd Clobes ('93) recently was transferred from O'Neill, Neb. to Fremont, Neb., where he continues as a claims representative for Farm Bureau Insurance.

Crystal Leeds Craven ('97) is an English and stagecraft teacher for the Omaha Public Schools.

Alma Cross ('98) is working for the Doniphan County (Kan.) Education Cooperative. She lives in Hiawatha.

Randall Czech ('98) is a remodeling carpenter for Dillon Construction in Springfield, Neb., where he lives.

Paula Darling ('90) of Nebraska City has been hired by the Lied Conference Center as a conference coordinator. She had enjoyed a noteable career as Tourism Director for Nebraska City.

Chris Darnell ('99) has been hired by the City of Wymore, Neb. as a police officer.

Angela Petersen Dickey ('95) and her husband Aaron are proud parents of son Matthew Ryan, born last July.

Shane Dolph ('94) and wife Ann of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter born in February.

Jeremy Doty ('98) is teaching fifth and sixth graders in the Lawrence; Neb. public schools.

Terry Dugan ('97) received a first place sports story award and a third place sports column award in the annual Nebraska Press Assocation contest this spring. Terry earned his awards for his work with the Auburn (Neb.) Newspapers, but recently accepted a post working for the Sioux City (Iowa) Journal.

Clint Edwards ('98) is teaching English in the Columbus, Neb. public school system.

(continued on page 16)

Tom Thomas ('79) of Holt, Mo. has gained a national reputation and following for his model building, especially his work with sailboats. (Photo contributed)

Jfllil. Jl

1990s (continued)

Catherine Cave English ('91) of Aurora, Neb. was recognized by the Peter Kiewit Foundation this spring as a recipient of the Nebraska Teacher Achievement Award for excellence in classroom teaching.

Ben Essam ('98) is teaching social studies at the Beatrice (Neb.) Middle School.

Travis Evans ('98) is an adjustment counselor for a company in Florence, Ky.

Sean Flanegan ('98) is tending bar at Harvey's Casino in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He is attending graduate school at Creighton University in Omaha.

Femme Fete-als

Five Stater sleuths solved the myste1y of the freshmen "Ladies in Waiting" at the 1967 May Fete: (from left) Pat Smart, Nancy Krakowski, Marliss Cramer, Kathy Reed, Candy

Mysterious Ladies Revealed; Staged Photo Tough to Solve?

They were called the "Ladies-In-Waiting," a group of freshmen involved in that former celebration at Peru State known as May Fete.

In fact, a little detective work by a couple of sources even pinpointed the exact date when the photo was taken (May 5, 1967) and the fact that the photo can be found on page 138 of the 1967 Peruvian yearbook.

So although we didn't have a large number of Peru Stater's responding to the last "Mystery Picture," every one of the five respondents was 100% correct on their identification.

One of the detectives is in fact one of the subjects of the picture, Lynda Shanahan Moser ('70) of Fremont, Neb., who is at far right.

Others who ID'd the subjects were Mike Guilliatt ('67) of Fremont, Neb., who termed them "the best freshmen at PSC," Bob ('69) and Kathy Gregory ('75) Kelly of Lincoln, Neb., Mary Budler Morgan ('69) of Grand Junction, Colo., and Lois Rieschick ('70) of

Peru Players Provide Puzzle

Springfield, Neb.

Thanks to one and all for helping with the "Mystery Picture"!

And now for the identification, from left: Pat Smart, Nancy Krakowski, Marliss Cramer, Kathy Reed, Candy Gray, and Lynda Shanahan (Moser). Only the latter two are on the Peru Stater mailing list.

For the latest "Mystery Picture," we decided that resumption of theatrical productions at Peru State provided us with a perfect opportunity to run a photo of this group of thespians.

Your Peru Stater staff recognizes all of the faces but can't put names to all of them. We could ask the (surprisingly svelte) theater professors flanking the group, but thought the "Mystery Picture" route was much more fun.

If you can ID them, please forward the information to: Kent Propst, c/o "Mystery Picture," Peru State College, PO Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421, or call (402) 872-2225, or e-mail him at: propst@bobcat.peru.edu

Christine Michel Fritz ('98) is a high school at-risk teacher for the Rock Port, Mo. public schools.

Eric Gamble ('98) is a supervisor for Youth Emergency Services in Omha.

Dan Gauchat ('94) and wife Tiffanie of Millard, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Tate Christian, born in January. He was welcomed home by a brother, Gage.

Jennifer Gentert ('98) is a coordinator for Heartland Health Resources in Auburn, Neb.

Mark Gillan ('98) is Assistant to the Plant Manager at the Cooper Nuclear Station near Brownville, Neb.

Angela Gleason ('98) is an educational continuum team member for the AmeriCorps' Lincoln (Neb.) Action Program.

Tesa Goossen ('98) is a teacher for Central Christian School in Omaha.

Dan ('95) and Jennifer ('96) Hamilton of Stanton, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Noah Daniel, born in March.

Sarah Haneline ('98) of Nebraska City is a family support worker for Maplewood Counseling Associates in Ralston, Neb.

Diane Hardy ('98) is teaching in the Omaha Public Schools' Kellom Primary School.

Stacy Schroeder Hennerberg ('92) and husband Russell of Hollenberg, Kan are proud parents of an adopted daughter, Jenna Marie, born in January.

Stephanie Hetzel ('96) has been hired as an associate accountant for the Omaha firm of Seim Johnson Sestak & Quist.

Don Hogue ('97) of Falls City, Neb. has been named head basketball coach for Falls City High School for the 19992000 school year. He is a physical education teacher for the Falls City Middle School, and has been an assistant coach for football, girls' basketball and boys' basketball for the past eight years. Don and his wife, the former Terri Miller ('90) have two sons, Reese and Koner.

Dr. Merry Holliday-Hanson ('91) is director of the California Epdiemiologic Investigation Service. She had done a fellowship with the service. People in the one- to two-year program are responsible for completing a project in epidemiology at either the state or local health department level.

(continued on page 17)

Gray, and Lynda Shanahan Moser.

These six PSC students, along with their drama profs, spent a lot of time on the stage during their days at Peru State. Can you put names to the faces?

PSC student Julie Arnold of Lubbock, Texas and Steve Shafer have announced their engagement. Julie will graduate in December with a degree in business management. She also works part-time at First National Bank in Falls City, Neb.

Susan Bergmann ('96) and Scott Venter (attd. '93-'94) of Lincoln, Neb. will be married in July. Susan earned her Masters of Arts in Elementary Education through the CADRE project at the University of NebraskaOmaha in August 1998. She is teaching 5th grade at Cavett Elementary School in Lincoln.

Paula Bowers ('90) and Robert D. Ames Jr. were to be married in June in Lincoln. Paula is employed at North Topeka (Kan.) Animal Clinic.

PSC student Jon Dunlap of Falls City, Neb. and Tiffany Moerer ('98) of Falls City were married in April Tiffany is currently employed at Teri Jo's Restaurant in Falls City.

Leslie Dye.r (' of Nebraska City and Phil Penney of Percival, Iowa were married in April in Arizona. Leslie teaches in Nebraska City.

PSC student R. Dean Eckstrom of Lincoln, Neb. and Jama Obermiller are to be married in August in Grand Island, Neb.

Student

Leaders

Brenda Foster ('99) and Mike Wieckhorst were to be married in June in Nebraska City.

James Frerichs ('90) and Shanon Holtorf were married in April in Dunbar, Neb. He works for ConAgra.

PSC student Genny Harris and Joe Sides were to be married in early June in Indianoa, Neb.

Angela Hawley ('97) of Tabor, Iowa and Teddy Hetzel were to be married in June. Angie is currently a teacher at Lewis Central School in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and recently received her masters of science in education degree fromPSC.

Kristina Kreifels ('98) and Jason Bangs are to be married in August in Omaha. She attends Clarkson College in its physical therapist assistant program:

Michelle Marschman ('93) of Lincoln, Neb. and B.J. Luethke were married in Michelle is an adjustments specialist with UNIPAC.

Mike Maroney ('95) and Amy Feldman were married in April in Omaha.

Cyle Nolte ('90) of Bellevue, Neb. and Suzanne Petersen are to be married in July. Cyle is a teacher in the Bellevue Public Schools

at PSC

Danelle Pederson ('98) and Jeff L. Reed ('97) of Waverly, Neb. were married in May. Danelle is employed by the State of Nebraska as a social worker in Omaha. Jeff is a probation officer for the State of Nebraska in Lincoln.

Gennie Ptacek ('96) and Chad Larson were to be married in June in Lincoln, Neb. Gennie teaches special educati.on in the Nebraska City public schools.

Rhonda Puckett ('94) and Martin Swanson were married in May in Omaha. Rhonda is a travel agent for MIC Lincoln Travel.

Marcus Schmidt ('96) and Lisa Talbitzer were married in April in Malcolm, Neb. Marcus works for the Nebraska State Patrol.

Maureen Hazard Simmons ('97) of Lenox, Iowa and Michael D. Henry were married in April. Maureen is employed by First Community National Bank in Lenox.

PSC student Jonna Vanderfeltz of Blue Springs, Neb. and Dustin Adams are to be married in July. Jonna is an elementary education and special education major, and is employed part time at Martin Luther Home in Beatrice, Neb.

Anne Wieckhorst ('96) and Adam Bennett were married in May in Nebraska City. Anne teaches in the Plattsmouth, Neb. public schools.

Credentials

The PSC (>ffice •of Car.eer & Placement reminds all graduates that they· only keep credential fUes for 10 years after their last use.

If-an alum's credentials haven't been used for 10 years, those .files at'edestr.oyec}. any•··qllestfons, please.•.(!ontact •.•·the of Career Planning at (402) 872-2420• ·

1990s (continued)

Tiffany Holmes ('99) is attending graduate school at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Stephanie Hornung ('98) will be teaching physical education for the Atlantic (Iowa) Community Schools beginning this fall.

Julie Orton Howard ('98) is a teacher with the Northeast Kansas Infant Toddler Service in Hiawatha, Kan.

Dr. Martin Jacobsen ('92) and wife Patricia of College Station, Texas are proud parents of a daughter, Emma Marie, born in March. Marty successfully defended his doctoral dissertation at Texas A&M in February and received his Ph.D. in English. He will begin teaching in A&M's English Language Institute for university-bound international students.

Dave Jones ('92) of Kansas City, Mo. is recruiting engineers, accountants and management personnel for Manufacturing Technical Search.

Jeff Junker ('93) of Beatrice, Neb. was an assistant boys basketball coach for the Beatrice Orangemen who entered the Class B state tournament with a 2ff·2 record and were defeated in the semifinals. They ended their season with a No. 3 ranking in Class B.

Mark Junker ('96) of Falls City, Neb. was assistant boys basketball coach for the Sacred Heart Irish who won the Class D 1 State Tournament.

Tiffany Anderson Keithley ('96) and husband Joe are proud parents of a son, Emerson Joseph, born in January.

Arma Koskela ('98) is working in the.Plattsmouth, Neb. community schools.

Hannah Kroeker ('98) is substitute teaching in the McPherson, Kan. school system.

Amy E. Stukenholtz Kroll ('94) of Nebraska City, Neb. received her Master of Science in Education degree in Pedagogy from PSC this spring.

Lisa Urbaner Kuenzi ('91) and husband John of Bern, Kan. are proud parents of a daughter, Grace Leigh, born in April.

Gary Lester ('98) is a range support specialist for Lockheed Martin, working out of Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska.

Erin Mahlberg ('98) is the new softball coach for Boyer Valley, Iowa High School.

Jessica MaGill Manna ('98) is a sixth grade teacher at Trinity Cl)ristian School in Omaha.

Rachel Maxwell ('98) of Auburn, Neb. is working as an advocate/educator for Project Response, Inc. of Auburn, Neb.

Dawn Bowsman McCoy ('92) and husband Michael of Omaha are proud parents of a daughter, Grace Elaine, born in March. She was welcomed home by a sister, Hannah.

PSC student Elysia Smith McGill and husband Matt of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Madyson Sue, born in February. Elysia is a music major. Proud grandparents include PSC student Susan and Chuck Smith ('94) of Falls City.

(continued on page 18)

Julie Bixler (left) and Heather Speice are the new President and Vice President, respectively, of the Peru State College Student Senate. The pair was elected by the PSC student body.

(Photo by Tony Koso)

Charles C. Adams (attd. summer and fall '50) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in April. He worked for the US Post Office as a letter carrier in the Kansas City, Kan. area.

Geraldine Eads Wing Alexander (attd. '37-'38) of North Platte, Neb. passed away in February. She began her career as secretary at KODY Radio in 1944 and advanced to assistant manager. In 1969 she became the first executive director of NebraskaLand Days. She returned to KODY as general manager in 1976. Geraldine retired from North Platte (Western Nebraska) National Bank in 1993. She was very active in community affairs and received many honors throughout her career.

Jack Atkins ('41) of Omaha passed away in March.

Dorothy Myers Bacon ('33) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in January. She taught school for a short time, and then operated a greenhouse and nursery with her husband in Auburn.

Harold Boatman ('39) of Tarkio, Mo. passed away in February. He taught school for a few years, and then moved to Rock Port, Mo. where he and his late wife, the former Martha Clifton ('40), farmed until 1964. He was office Manager of the ASCS Office in Rock Port from 1954to 1962, and then was named director and First Vice

Hamilton

President of the Farmers and Valley Bank in Tarkio, Mo. He retired from that position in 1983. He was also very active in community activities.

John Boyer ('39) of Aurora, Neb. passed away in March. He was a school teacher and coach for many years, serving in Odell, DeWitt, York, Hampton and Omaha in Nebraska He was a Boy Scout leader, President of the State Drivers Education Association and also a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps. During his college days he was a member of the football and track team.

Mark Clark ('79) of Omaha passed away in March. He taught social studies at Kiewit Middle School in Omaha and was a junior high football coach.

Rachel Leona Bertwell Cline ('43) of Fellows, Calif. passed away in April. She

taught school in California for 20 years. Her husband, Fletcher, is a 1941 grad of PSC.

Harvey Cole ('32) of Kearney, Neb. passed away in May. His wife is the former Lois Metcalf ('36}.

Marie Erdmann Colgrove (attd. summer '22) of Colorado Springs, Colo. passed away in February.

Roland Cowell (attd. '38' 40) of Lewisville Texas passed away in March. He was a basketball and football player for PSC.

Doris Gray Cunningham ('39) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in April. She was retired from the University of Nebraska Athletic Department.

Maurine Ehlers Cyphers ('47) of Houston, Texas passed away in April.

(Continued on Page 19)

·tAl·L111Jni trhri;J Can Be·

As more a.rid more Peruvians log on t() World Wide Web, :W.}lnt to remind you that. it's .not for work and {;\s if Y<>U didn't already know Be sure to che.ck out the Pei-u. State College· for l()ts of information about the col;,. lege.

Then, scope out the ''Alumni· & News" section,

.

message i11 the gu.est: 9<>ok, and takl! a few lt)oment.s to play. the Alumni Trivia ConteSt. Each month. we post a new ques tion pertaining to. Peru State. From each correct answer, we draw <>ne win-, ner ·who gains a prize compliments of the Bobcat Bookstore.

It's easy and it's fun. Give it a try!

................................

Gandies hiking and biking trail group, to name a few.

When he first came to PSC

27 years ago, the business program was a part of the old Applied Arts division. The program's growth eventually led to it forming its own division, and Hamilton served a year as its first chair on a temporary basis.

Didn't really want it

About five years ago the chairmanship again became open, and Hamilton agreed to resume administrative workwith less than breathless anticipation.

"I didn't want to be Chair," he admitted. "I would have

preferred to finish up as a faculty member. You miss the constant interaction with students. Plus I've had to make a lot- of hard decisions. But as Chair, you're in the position to solve problems for students and colleagues - that's been very gratifying."

Hamilton believes the future is bright for Peru State and its business program.

'Can mushroom' "Our off-campus business program can mushroom if we want it to," he said. Peru State offers off-campus programming at all three Southeast Community College campuses (Beatrice, Lincoln and

1990s (continued)

Eric Mclnteer ('98) is a Family Development Specialist for Southeast Nebraska Community Action in Humboldt, Neb.

Susan Picray McLaughlin ('98) is the lead two-year-old teacher with Traditions Childrens Center in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Keith McWilliams ('90) and wife Tracy of Syracuse, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Mitchell Ross, born in March. He was welcomed home by two sisters, Tirsa and Mariah.

Lisa Bliss Meyer ('98) is office manager for Behavioral Medicine Clinic in Fairbury, Neb.

Cathie G. Miller ('91) of Plattsmouth, Neb. received her Master of Science in Education degree from PSC this spring. Her area of study was Instructional Technology.

Steve Moyer ('90) is Vice President for Atlas Awning in Omaha. The company was featured in a January issue of the Midlands Business Journal.

Kathryn Naprstek ('99) is working for Platteview High School near Springfield, Neb.

Jen Olsen ('98) is a Guest Services Representative for the Holiday Inn Express-Bristol Hotels in Salina, Kan.

Reid Olson ('98) is teaching health and physical education for the Lyle, Minn. school. '

Chester Oszust Jr. ('98) recently moved to Texas and is with the U.S. Air Force at its Lockland Air Force Base.

Lisa Othmer ('98) spent the spring term teaching music for the Table Rock-Steinauer (Neb.) schools. Next year she'll be teaching in the Humboldt, Neb. schools.

Dave Pleiss ('98) is a technician for Valmont Industries in Valley, Neb.

Teresa Goracke Plummer ('98) is a kindergarten teacher for the Papillion-LaVista (Neb.) school district.

.From Page 12.

Milford), at Offutt Air Force Base near Bellevue, in Falls City, in Ralston, in Omaha and in Nebraska City.

A refocusing of Peru State's economic development effort has the potential to pay even bigger dividends, both for the college and the region, Hamilton added.

But those initiatives will have to be left for others. Jack Hamilton is happy to be lightening his load by two-thirds, and even happier that he' 11 shed his administrative duties and get back to working directly with students.

"Students make you think a lot younger than you are chronologically," he chuckled.

Chris Raabe ('97) and his wife Melanie are proud parents of daughter Emma Diane, born in February. They live in Peoria, Az.

Holly Humm Riley ('97) and husband Ken of Auburn, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Krista Marie, born in April. Krista was welcomed home by brother Scott.

Alan Sampeer ('98) is employed by Werner Enterprises in Omaha.

'\.. Cheryl Sejkora ('89) of Burchard, Neb. received a Master of Science in Education degree from PSC this spring. Her area of study was Special Education.

Shawn Semler ('92) was hired as Omaha Marian High softball coach in April. He's also their computer coordinator.

Terri Shanks ('99) is working in the payroll department of the Nebraska State Historical Society in Lincoln. She will be.attending the Myotherapy Institute this fall.

(continued on page 19)

(From Page 18)

Claire Hicks Davisson ('30) of Seward, Neb. passed away in January. She was cofounder of the House of Davisson retail store, and was active in the Seward community.

Lucille Swanson Dermann (attd. summer '47) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in March. She was a former school teacher and was Lunch Room Manager for the Lincoln Public Elementary Schools. She was a volunteer for Meals On Wheels for 35 years.

Mildred Wilson Duckworth ('23) of Tustin, Calif. passed away in January.

Gladys Christy Evans (attd. '21) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in April.

Margaret E. Swan Garrison·(attd. summer '21) of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in January. She was active in several organizations in the Nebraska City area.

Delton Goerke ('41) of Medford, Ore. passed away in March. He served his country in the Air Force and received the Distinguished Flying Cross. He completed a total of 78 combat missions during WW II. After his service career, he was a trouble shooter for United Air Lines.

Velvette "Pat" Gottula ('62) of Tecumseh, Neb. passed away in March. She was a retired school teacher and taught in the Johnson County rural schools before accepting a position with the Gretna Public Schools where she taught for 12 years.

Norris Hale ('51) of Pella, Iowa passed away in March. He was a retired teacher and coach. He taught and coached in Nebraska and Iowa schools for 41 years, and served as Sports Information Director for Fort Hays State College in Hayes, Kan. He taught and was head football coach at Pella Community High School from 1972 until his retirement in 1995. He was a member of many organizations and received numerous awards during his distinguished career. His wife is the former

Martha Grindle ('72). Son, Mick ('87) of Glenwood, Iowa and wife Lisa (Moody) also attended PSC.

Inger M. Hansen (attd. summers '30, '33 and '35) of La Grange Park, Ill. passed away in February.

Word has been received of the death of Greg Hazen ('69) of Wood River, Ill.

Gary Henning (attd. '65'67) of Cedar Rapids, Iowa passed away in March. His wife is the former Carol Henderson ('67). Other family members include father, Charles ('47) of Peru, and siblings Alan ('71) and Fritz ('74) of Wichita, Kan., Judy Peterson ('71) of Omaha, Janice Smith ('74) of Peru, and Jodi Ferguson ('78) of Driggs, Idaho.

Word has been received of the death of Margaret Troyer Holmes ('33) of Summerdale, Ala. in August of 1997.

Word has been received of the death of John Horton ('39) of Castro Valley, Calif. in June of 1998.

Genevieve Gregg Hubbard ('19) of Washington, D.C. passed away in April. She was a longtime history, Latin and English teacher in schools in Nebraska and Washington, D.C.

Doraleah Bovey Hyland (attd. '26-'28) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in March. She was a retired school teacher having taught in the Lincoln Public Schools from 1948- 73. She was active in many organizations throughout her lifetime.

Lillian Ma.son Jackson ('26) of Edmond, Okla, passed away in March. She was a substitue teacher for many· years and also worked for Sandia Corp. in Albuquerque, N.M.

Helen Jones ('33) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in April. She was an elementary school teacher in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Hastings, Neb. before returning to Falls City.

Colleen Judd, who along with her husband Bob were

residence hall directors at the Centennial Complex for many years, passed away in March. Bob continues to work for Peru State.

Mildred Kenning ('54) of Fairbury, Neb. passed away in January. She was a retired school teacher.

Warren Kentopp (attd. '45) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in April. He was associated with the V-5/V-12 program while attending Peru. After serving in WW II, he bought and operated grain elevators in Shubert, Brownville and Howe, Neb. until his retirement in 1990.

Neta Estes Keown (' 40) of Anchorage, Ak. passed away in January. She taught school for a short time near Humboldt, Neb. and then received a degree in theology from Phillips University in Enid, Okla. She served as a Youth Education Minister in Ohio, Colorado and California before moving to Alaska in 1966. Before retiring she worked for the Alaska State Library and the Consumer Protection offices in Juneau.

Myrtle Weatherhogg Kuster ('17) of Hickman, Neb. passed away in March.

Dorothy Hill Leeka ('63) of Hamburg, Iowa passed away in February. She taught for over 50 years in Iowa.

Norma Cleary Ludwig (attd. '55) of Wesley Chapel, Fla. passed away in March. Norma taught in Nebraska for 11 years and then for the U.S. Department of Defense in Europe for 16 years. Her husband, Gerald ('58), survives her.

William Spencer Madden ('70) of Almena, Kan. passed away in April. He was in the banking business for 20 years and had worked for Wesco, Inc. of Norton, Kan. since 1990. He also owned Madden Trucking. Spencer was very involved in community activities.

Lyle· Mason ('42) of Seward, Neb. passed away in March. His wife is the former Christine Alger ('42).

(Continued on Page 20)

1990s (continued)

Scott Shepard ('91) of Lincoln, Neb. led his Lincoln Christian Crusaders boys basketball team to the Class C-1 boys basketball championship this spring. They ended their season with a 24-4 record.

David Sherwood ('98) is President of Phoenix Computer Services, Inc. in Beatrice, Neb.

Jeremy Shutts ('95) and wife Michelle of Nebraska City, Neb. are proud parents of a son born in January.

William R. Sipple ('98) is working for Communication Construction Inc. in Hamburg, Iowa. -

Ryan Smidt ('98) is a conservation officer and park ranger for the Kansas Wildlife & Parks agency. He is working in Osage City, Kan.

Kristine Sorenson ('98) is a graduate assistant in the human performance department at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. She is pursuing a masters degree in exercise science.

Michelle DeGraw Steadman ('98) is working for the Mutual of Omaha Insurance Co. in Omaha.

Robert Stewart ('98) is working for West TeleServices in Omaha.

Dana Briley Stovall ('93) and her husband Marty are proud parents of daughter Kelsie Lea, born in January. They live in Nebraska City, and Dana works at the Nebraska Lottery headquarters in Lincoln.

Tera NorveH Stutheit ('96) and husband Jeremy of Johnson, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Trey Lee, born in February.

Rose Suggett ('93) of Beatrice, Neb., a Certified Family Life Educator, is a therapist for Lutheran Family Services in the Auburn, Neb. area. She provides family, adolescent, pre-marital and marriage counseling as well as Supporting Children Through Divorce workshops.

Matthew Uher ('96) will be teaching English in the Falls City High School this fall. He had previously been with the St. Paul, Neb. school district.

Jason VanWesten ('98) is working for the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, and is based in Alexandria, Neb.

Jason Werner ('96) recently moved to Ebensburg, Penn. where he has accepted a position as counselor aide at the South Allegheny Academy in Portage, Penn.

Ivan Wineglass ('94) has been promoted by State Farm Insurance to the position of Claims Automation and Procedures Specialist. He has been relocated to their office in South Carolina.

Brian Woebbecke ('98) is a youth counselor for Youth Services Incorporated/Tarkio Academy in Tarkio, Mo.

Michelle Weddle Zoller ('97) is the new head volleyball coach at Nebraska City High School.Community College in Beatrice, Neb. as a Continuing Education coordinator and nursing secretary.

Indoor Football Bobcat Style

by Vince Henzel ('86)

Vern Thomsen isn't your typical retiree.

He's over 250 miles from home in Marshalltown, Iowa. He jokes about living out of his car. And he only sees his wife in person about once every six weeks.

Yet, those factors weren't enough to prevent Thomsen from experieficing a lifelong dream. The Peru State College graduate, Class of '61, is serving as head coach of the Lincoln Lightning, a first-year Indoor Football League (IFL) franchise.

Thomsen is one of three members of the '99 Lightning squad with ties to Peru State College. The team has two players - quarterback Jamie Stinson and wide receiver Zach Sangster - who are former Bobcats.

For Thomsen, the position

has allowed him to add the title "professional coach" to his resume of 40 years experience.

Prep Coach

He began his career in l 961 as head football coach at Enid, Ohio, followed by high school stints in Nebraska at Elmwood, Weeping Water and Wahoo.

In 1973, Thomsen left the high school ranks to serve one season as head coach at Fairbury Junior College, where he compiled a 9-1 mark. The Exeter, Neb., native went on to coach at Ellsworth (Iowa) College, where he guided them to the 1976 national juco championship. He also directed the football programs at Northwest Missouri State, Scottsdale (Ariz.) Junior College, and Iowa Central Community College.

When the opportunity to

coach the Lightning arose, Thomsen didn't hesitate.

"About three years ago some people approached me about coaching an indoor football team, but they said it would be sometime in the future," he said. "I was very interested but it had to be the right location. Shreveport, La., became available first but it wasn't the right location. Lincoln, Nebraska was the right location."

Eight-man

The IFL league is comprised of eight teams, consisting of a 31-man roster and 20 active players. Each team plays with eight players on the field, which Thomsen said makes for some unpredictable outcomes. The Lightning scored 86 points in one game, and leads the league in team scoring with a 63.6 points-pergame average. Stinson, who graduated in

Lightninf! Leaders

The Lincoln (Neb.) Lightning professional indoor football team has had a decidedly Peru State Bobcat flavor this spring. Wide receiver Zach Sangster ('99), Head Coach Vern Thomsen ('61) and quarterback Jamie Stinson ('99) all have enjoyed their experience.

December and has substituted as a teacher off the field, serves as the backup quarterback. He plays about 15 minutes per contest and holds on extra points ahd field goal attempts.

His best performance came in the second game of the seas on, when he threw for two

touchdowns and ran for another while playing the entire second half.

Stinson, a four-year starter at PSC who completed his career as the Bobcats' No. 2 all-time passer (8,500 yards), said his goal was just to make the final roster.

(Continued on Page 21)

I(From Page 19)

Dale G. Mayer ('92) of Humboldt, Neb. passed away in January.

Ted McCartney ('51) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in April. He was a retired educator and helped found the Bryan Alternative Educational Center in 1970. Bryan is an alternative to high school for students who were at risk of dropping out. He retired from the center in 1989 after 20 years as its director. He also served as a school administrator for Lincoln Public Schools for many years, and was extremely active in PSC's Lincoln Alumni chapter.

M. Garfield McCreight ('35) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in April. He was a retired associate professor at UNL where he taught agricultural education for 27 years. He was active in many civic and professional organizations during his lifetime.

Martha McDougal Melvin (attd. '30-'32, bachelors '55) of Scottsdale, Ariz. passed away in May. She was the widow of former PSC Dean of Students Keith Melvin ('32).

Esther McKnight Miller ('26) of Lincoln, Neb. passed

away in March. She taught in Elmwood and Lincoln for several years.

Richard Muth, Director of Admissions at PSC from 197780, passed away in March in Rapid City, S.D. He had been engaged in private business.

Zelda Nelson ('19) passed away in March. She was a resident of Bennet who taught in schools across the state, and a social worker for both state and federal agencies.

Greta Neubauer ('18) of Douglas, Wyo. passed away in March.

Word has been received of the death of Marjorie Niemann ('58) of Tarkio, Mo. in December of 1998.

Mildred Fisher Noyes ('21) of Yuma, Ariz. passed away in January.

Jean Schutte Nutzman (attd. summer '49) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in February. Jean taught school for a short time. She was very active in community affairs and served as a 4-H leader for 35 years.

Blanche Zajicek Palmer ('37) of Springfield, Mo.

passed away in January.

Betty Pancake ('34) passed away in January in Shenandoah, Iowa. She taught for awhile in Shenandoah, then travelled the world as a missionary for the Baptist Church.

Word has been received of the death of Marion Overholt Parson ('25) of Eugene, Ore.

Christine Fricke Pecha ('96) of Bellevue, Neb. passed away in May.

Lloyd Perry ('34) of Aurora, Colo. passed away in January. His wife is the former Faye Organ ('34).

Word has been received of the death of Berniece Krambeck Peters ('30) of Papillion, Neb. in January 1998.

Edna Grummert Petz (attd. '34-'36) passed away in January in Nelson, Neb. She was a schoolteacher in Nebraska.

Esther Bates Phillips year '58) of Atwater, Calif. passed away in March. She worked for Boeing Aircraft Company during World War II and later spent 30 years with Braniff Airlines. She was also

a volunteer at Merced Community Medical Center.

Victor Bruce Pigg ('30) of Bridgeport, Neb. passed away in April. He was a teacher and a school administrator.

Robert Ranck ('73) of Sidney, Iowa passed away in January.

Mary Monson Ross (attd. '25-'28) passed away in February in Sidney, Iowa.

Bernice Burch Rush ('21) of Sargent, Neb. passed away in January. She was a retired school teacher.

Leona Colson Sandrock ('34) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in April. She was active in several organizations in Falls City.

Katharine Schill ('20) passed away in February in Alliance, Neb. She taught school for nearly 50 years in Nebraska and Wyoming.

Mildred Shanek Spitsnogle ('38) of Odell, Neb. passed away in March.

J.B. Steele ('48) of Elbert, Colo. passed away in January. His wife is the former Ruth Ann Crook ('48). J.B. taught

English at Peru State from 1950-53 and was retired from Metropolitan State College in Denver.

Daniel Sullivan (attd. '60'61) passed away in February in Council Bluffs, Iowa. He worked for Union Pacific Railroad for most of his career.

Word has been received of the death of Roberta M. Growcock Thiessen ('38) of Valley, Neb. in February, 1998.

Alice Kaminska Tiemann ('36) of Beatrice, Neb. passed away in January. She taught school for a short time, and then worked with her husband in their residential building business.

Gene Walker (attd. '31'34) of Sioux Falls, S.D. passed away in March. He was employed by the John Morrell Company.

Zola Linnos White ('32) passed away in January in Prescott, Ariz.

Kathryn Brooks Wing ('67) passed away in March in Colmbia, Mo. She taught in southwest 'Iowa for many years.

(Photo courtesy Vince Henzel '86)

Bobcat Football '99

Bobcat Volleyball '99 Indoor Football ....... From Page 20

September September

4 DOANE, Hall of Fame Game, 1 p.m.

18 Dana at Nebraska City (Apple Bowl), 6p.m.

25 at Valley City, N.D., 1 p.m.

October

2 PANHANDLE

2-4 Mainland Challenge at Hilo, Hawaii

8 DOANE, 7:30 p.m.

10-11 College of the Ozarks Tourney, Point Lookout, Mo.

15 St. Mary at Leavenworth, Kan., 7p.m.

18 vs. Grand View College, in Nebraka City, 4:30 p.m.

21 Avila College at Kansas City, Mo., 7p.m.

24-25 BOBCAT FALL CLASSIC

29 at Hastings College, 7 p.m.

"I wanted to see what the next level was like and be a part of a new league," said Stinson, from Tecumseh, Neb. "I've worked hard to make the squad, and want to enjoy the opportunity to play when it comes around."

Wheeler actually "recruited" Thomsen twice - first as a football player to PSC in 1959, then to coach at Enid High two years later.

30 NORTHWEST OKLAHOMA, Senior Day, 1 p.m.

November

6 at Langston, OK., 1 p.m.

PSC Benchmarks

The process was difficult and accomplished under an incredibly tight time frame.

The effort initially met with mixed feelings on campus: there was general excitement about the opportunity to refocus Peru State's energies and chart a new course for the college. Yet many were concerned about committing to such sweeping change without a commitment on the part of state government to provide the resources to effect such change.

Excitement

As the process unfolded, those concerns abated dramatically and excitement built. The nine committees, each involving diverse representation from the campus community and in some cases, the off-campus community too, were energized by the tasks.

The final report featured seven "key outcome planning areas," that will guide how Peru State College operates for years to come.

These "KOPA"'s include: Improved educational service to Southeast Nebraska; Student enrollment and retention; Efficient and effective campus operations; Faculty & staff development; Campus governance; Alumni and Foundation support; and Community relations.

Progress will be monitored annually and reported to the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges, which will forward it on to the CCPE and the Legislature to make certain progress continues.

The full report is too lengthy to

October

1 Park College at Parkville MO., 7 p.m.

5 CONCORDIA, 7:30 p.m.

7 Baker University at Baldwin City, Kan.,

Three TD's Sangster, who graduated from PSC in May, has started one game for the Lightning, who won four of their first six contests. He had a season high four catches - three for first downs - against the Madison (Wis.) Mad Dogs.

When asked about the difference between playing small-colle ge football and the IFL, Sangster was quick to respond.

"It's the speed," he said. "It's taken a little time to get adjusted. There are some awfully good athletes on this team and in this league. I'm playing because I love the game. It's been a great experience."

Thomsen credits Peru State Hall of Fame legend Al Wheeler as one of three people who most influenced his coaching career.

Former Peru Player Thomsen, who once played professionally for the Lincoln Comets of the Pro Football League of America in 1966, describes his position with the Lighting as "the best job I've ever had."

"We're like a family," he said.

"We've got some players who were prominent players on small college level, and some with big time college backgrounds. In addition to Jamie and Zach from Peru, we've got players from Nebraska-Kearney, Doane and Concordia-Seward who have blended in perfectly with the rest of the team.

"They're all having a ball, and I'm having a ball as well. It's been a labor of love. It's like having your cake with ice cream and whip cream, too," Thomsen said.

From Page 14

duplicate in the Peru Stater. The essence of each of the seven KOPA's follows.

Educational Service to Southeast Nebraska

Peru State College will continue to develop and improve its existing strong academic programs - especially teacher education, business and biology - and, in collaboration with other educational institutions, assess the educational needs of its service area and develop programs that will fit those needs.

PSC commits to an annual review of educational programs, with analysis of the response to the needs of the service area, the development of learning center programs, the status of collaborative efforts, and the academic assessment activities.

Student Enrollment & Retention

Peru State College will develop programs that will improve enrollment numbers through freshman recruitment, transfers, and retention.

Peru State College commits to an annual review of the retention and recruitment of new students, including transfer students. The annual report will specifically track student categories, show trends, and compare the levels at PSC to national standards.

Efficient & Effective Campus Operations

Peru State College will develop plans and procedures designed to improve the efficiencies of facilities use and faculty assignments.

PSC commits to an annual review of campus efficiency and effectiveness measures, to include analysis of use rates for classrooms and laboratories and comparisons to national standards. After the Campus Master Plan is completed the annual report will include an evaluation of how developments support the master plan concept.

Faculty & Staff Development

Peru State College will develop plans and programs to enhance the quality of the teaching and mentoring done by the full-time and adjunct faculty and ensure that the campus creates the best possible nurturing learning environment for our students.

PSC commits to an annual review of faculty and staff development programs, and to an annual planning session between the appropriate administrators and the individual campus senates.

Campus Governance

Peru State College will emphasize the concept of shared governance, will ensure broad involvement in planning and decision making, and will improve campus procedures and policies to create a cohesive, inclusive, and supportive learning community.

PSC commits to an annual review of the status of shared governance and to a meeting to specifically discuss governance issues between the President, Vice Presidents, Dean of Students, and the three campus senates.

Alumni & Foundation Support

Peru State College will improve the level of support provided by alumni

and friends of the College through the Foundation.

The Foundation Executive Director will provide an annual report to the President of the College on the level of support provided to the College. If appropriate data is available, this report will compare the Foundation support to national, state, or peer group norms.

Community Relationships

Peru State College will improve the cooperation between the college and the local communities, especially the City of Peru, with the objective of improving support for the college and ensuring the college is a contributor to the cultural and economic development of the region.

A College-Community Coordinating Committee will submit an annual report on the status of support by the community and involvement of the campus in community and regional activities.

It's an ambitious plan, one that offers challenges unprecedented in the college's history. It will require support from across campus. Of equal importance is the support it requires, as never before, from the State, from southeastern Nebraska, and from alumni and supporters of PSC.

Best of all, achievement of the benchmarks will make Peru State College an institution living up to its full potential to the students and the region it serves. And it can put to rest questions about the viability of Nebraska's first college.

Bobcat Football Strictly Business This Fall

After a disappointing 4-5 season a year ago the Peru State football squad is prepared to improve this season. They have even seized the motto "Strictly Business" this season to help keep themselves focused.

Coach Dick Strittmatter said he has mixed feelings coming out of spring practice. He said the coaching staff got a chance to evaluate each position well.

Back in Action

Back in action at the '99 Alumni vs. Varsity football game in April were (from left) tight end Chad Beckman of Stromsburg, Neb. (#83 in white), who caught two TD passes; #45 Matt Hug of Auburn, Neb.; #55 Phil Wemhoff of Peru; and #44 Mike Patterson of Oklahoma City, Okla. The Alums held the Varsity to a single first-half score and the "old guys" led 8-6 at the midway point, but the Varsity rallied for the win.

Varsity Downs Alumni

In Spring Grid Test

The old-timers earned the respect of the 1999 Bobcat football squad, but the Varsity earned the win 19-8 in the spring game held April 24.

Sophomore quarterback

Tommy Aldana (Nebraska City) threw three touchdown passes, two to junior tight end Chad Beckman (Stromsburg, Neb.), to rally the Varsity to their second win in two years over an all-star Alumni squad in the series which was reinstituted a year ago.

The Alumni led 8-6 at the half on a 26-yard pass from quarterback Mark Fletcher ('79, Grant City, Mo.) to wide receiver Jamie Cason (' 97, Drakesville, Iowa) late in the first half. Kevin Hixson (' 86, Gallatin, Mo.) threw to Cason for the conversion and the lead.

The Varsity gained the lead for good midway through the third quarter when Aldana hooked up with Beckman for their second score of the game. Late in the third quarter, Aldana sealed the win with a 33 yard toss to senior wide receiver Todd Liberty (Falls City, Neb.).

Defensive back Mark Meadows ('95) of Omaha was named the Alumni Outstanding Defensive Player. He had eight tackles, two for loss. Hixson was honored as the Outstanding Offensive Player, dividing time between quarterback ( 4-6 passing for 75 yards) and fullback (seven

carries for 15 yards).

Cason and Russ Olsen ('99, Haigler, Neb.) each caught three passes. Fletcher completed five of 14 passes for 74 yards and a score. Phil Wemhoff ('87, Peru) had seven tackles and a sack for a 13-yard loss.

Aldana paced the varsity with seven completions in 11 attempts for 91 yards and three TDs. Terry Zessin (senior, Oakland, Neb.) carried seven times for 88 yards and Alex Reier (sophomore, Broken Bow, Neb.) had 13 carries for 72 yards.

The venerable tight end Jim Manning ('66, Shelton, Wash.) was honored as the "most veteran" alumni player participating in the contest.

No final decision has been made as to the date of the next Varsity vs. Alumni game; it could be in 2000 or it may be scheduled for 2001.

"We had a lot of improvement on both sides of the ball this spring. We wish we would have came away with a little more depth in many positions but we did have a lot of younger guys gain a lot of experience," he said.

Two veterans return to the quarterback position next fall. Strittmatter said he is comfortable with either senior Wes Haveman (Shubert, Neb.) or sophomore Tommy Aldana (Nebraska City) in the game. Haveman was 83 of 191 for 1,195 yards and II touchdowns a year ago. Aldana completed 17 of 44 passes for 218 yards and one touchdown.

In the backfield the Bobcats are young but have a lot of potential, according to Strittmatter. The fullback position will be anchored by senior co-captain Terry Zessin (Oakland, Neb.). He led the Cats in rushing a year ago with 380 yards on 90 rushes.

"Terry is a very hard worker. He should be a very good leader for us on the field this fall," Strittmatter said. Sophomore Nick Burge (Blue Hill, Neb.) provides relief for Zessin this fall.

Two young talents will battle for the runningback position this fall. Sophomore Alex Reier (Broken Bow, Neb.) and redshirt freshman Dana Long

(Plattsmouth, Neb.) are in contention for the starting role.

On the offensive front the Bobcats look very experienced. Three veteran tackles return, senior co-captain Travis Martensen (Neligh, Neb.) and sophomores Josh Smulling (Nebraska City) and Tom Wissman (Falls City, Neb.).

The guard position also looks solid. Juniors Dave Bishop (Milford, Neb.) and Nate Armagost (Lexington) lead the pack.

Senior Brian Kile (Omaha) returns as the Bobcats' center. Bishop will also bring some experience to the position as well.

The receiving corps has big play potential, according to Strittmatter. "These guys can catch the ball and are also good blockers." Senior Todd Liberty (Falls City) caught 27 passes for 455 yards and six touchdowns last season. He is currently No. 7 on the Bobcats' all-time receiving list with 1,682 career yards.

Strittmatter said the tight end position could be the most inexperienced group corning out of spring practice. Junior Chad Beckman (Stromsburg, Neb.) and sophomore Kirk Broders (Malcolm, Neb.) have worked hard in the spring according to Strittmatter and made the most improvement of any position.

The Bobcat defense looks to be as strong as ever. At defensive line the Bobcats return seniors Shane Rippen (Culbertson, Neb.) and Justin Thomalla (Lexington, Neb.).

The defensive tackles should be ready after a year under their belt, according to defensive coordinator Michael Carnes. Juniors Joe Martin (Glenwood, Iowa) and Jeff

Reeder (Bellevue, Neb.) along with sophomore Shane Maloley (Lexington) have gotten a lot stronger over the off-season but Carnes said they need to work on their footwork this fall to help the Bobcat defense be dominant.

Sophomore Andy Katz (Lincoln, Neb.) will be the leader of the Bobcat linebackers, according to Carnes.

Juniors Zach Navrkal (Pierce, Neb.), Jeremy Sykes (Lexington) and Ryan Young (Omaha) along with sophomores Travis Bangert (Lincoln) and Kye Myers (Lexington) will also contribute at the linebacker position.

The Bobcat secondary a1so looks salty. Senior Jamol Harris (National City, Calif.) returns to the strong safety position. He led the Cats with six quarterback sacks a year ago and was selected as a cocaptai n for the squad by his teammates this fall.

Junior Darin Garfield (Aurora) will start in the free safety position and will be relieved by sophomore Alex Schutzenhofer (Omaha).

Senior John Cress (Lincoln), junior Kyle Lee (Shelton, Neb.) and sophomores Jason Hurt (Centura, Neb.) and Marty Salcedo (Omaha) will tangle for the cornerback position.

Bobcat Football Finds Home

Starting this fall the Peru State football squad has found a home.

The Bobcats will join the newly formed Central States Football League (CSFL). Four other schools have also joined the conference: Northwestern Oklahoma State University, Lincoln University (Mo.), Haskell Indian Nations University (Kan.) and Langston University (Okla.). Four other independent NAIA schools have expressed interest in joining.

Although the conference is spread. from Nebraska into Oklahoma and possibly Texas it will allow the Bobcat student-ath·

letes more opportunities for athletic and academic recognition.

The CSFL Will. also .provide the Bobcats with a better system to qualify for the NAIA national playoffs.

League competition won't begin until the fall of 2000.

Meanwhile, the other five PSC sports (volleyball, men's and women's basketball, baseball and softball) are exploring membership in another league,.according to Tara Kreklau, interim Athletics Director.

(Photo by Elizabeth Olsen)

Success Returns To Baseball Diamond

Some people wouldn't consider a 20-38 record as a success. But after a 7-40 campaign a year ago, Coach Mark Bayliss is excited what is in store for the future of the Peru State baseball program.

The Bobcats, who lost in the championship of the Midwest Region Independent Section finals, only lose two key seniors off this year's squad.

This season the Cats were led by junior first basemen Brendan R a y b o u r n p· h · u p (·zr\ (Bellevue, Neb.). itc tng .1..1.as o_o l J

He batted '452 for Freshman pitcher Zenon Popii, one of several the and Canadj,ans on :he 1999.Bobcat squad, b k school tossed a one-hitter against St. Senarro College for hits in in Peru's 10-0 shutout wi'! in March. The you:h(80) Jul PSC squad made considerable progress this a season d h d. · .F d d bl ' season un er t e irectwn o1 secon -year ou es m a sea( 25 ) d Coach Mark Bayliss. (Photo by Kent Propst) son , an set the record for put outs in a season (378).

Raybourn ended the season with a .729 slugging percentage. He also led the Cats with 42 RBis. Bayliss expects Raybourn to improve on those numbers his senior season.

"Brendan is a great all-around student-athlete. He is our leader offensively and it will be good for our program to have him around one more season," Bayliss said.

Senior shortstop Christian Solaita (Pago Pago, American Samoa) also gave the Bobcats a boost offensively, according to Bayliss. He batted .343 with 39 RBis, the second highest total on the squad.

But the biggest improvement this season was on the mound. The Bobcats, who posted a 9.29 earned run average in 1998, posted a 5.44 ERA this year. They were led by two freshmen, a sophomore and a senior.

Freshman Derek Dallorto (St. Albert, Alberta) posted a teambest 3.72 ERA. He pitched 73.1 innings, the most of any hurler this season.

Another freshman Zenon Popil (Edmonton, Alberta) was among the Bobcat leaders. He set a school record pitching in 18 different contests. His 4.33 ERA was the second lowest on the team.

Senior Kris Mathews (Benkelman, Neb.) held a 4.71 ERA while pitching 71.1 innings in a solid senior season. ·

Sophomore Wes Haveman (Shubert, Neb.) returned to the diamond after taking a season off. He posted a 5.94 ERA for the Cats. Bayliss said the Bobcat hurlers were assisted by the presence of junior Tim Sealock (Lincoln) in the catching position.

"Tim was the second best improvement to our program besides the pitching staff," Bayliss noted. "He not only helped offensively but also gave us some experience and leadership for our young pitching staff."

Bayliss looks for the success on the newly renovated Peru State baseball field to keep rising. "This was a big improvement going from seven to 20 wins but I felt we should have been closer to the .500 mark," he said. "Next season I wouldn't be surprised if we tum our record around with all the young talent we have and the recruits that we should land. I think Bobcat baseball is on a steep incline."

Softball Ends Up With Short Stick

This spring the Bobcat softball squad wore the bridesmaids dress. Just short of a regional playoff bid, the Cats ended their season 26-24 without a chance to advance to the post-season.

Because there were only two independent schools in the NAIA Midwest Region this spring the section was not awarded an automatic bid into the regional tournament, meaning the Bobcats had to fight for one of the three atlarge bids.

The Bobcats were one spot away when the final poll was released. Coach Mark Mathews said although he was extremely disappointed his squad wasn't given the chance to advance he was proud how they rallied to end the season.

"It was very enjoyable to coach this team," Mathews said. "This team played and practiced hard. throughout the season."

Three seniors closed their seasons. Pitcher Melanie Tramp (Lincoln, Neb.) left her mark in the Bobcat record book. Tramp recorded 126 strikeouts this season, the most

of any Bobcat pitcher in a season ever.

Her 1.62 earned run average is also the best ever posted by a Bobcat hurler. Mathews said if Tramp wouldn't have been sick the first third of the season she could have had even more outstanding numbers.

Outfielders Krissy Tatum (Kearney, Neb.) and Amy Bachle (Daykin, Neb.) have also ended their Bobcat careers. Mathews said Tatum was once again one of the Bobcats' consistent players.

Bachle ends her third season with the Bobcats. Mathews said she will be missed next season, too.

"Amy is a very solid defensive player in centerfield. She had made tremendous improvements in the three years in our program. She always tried to keep the team upbeat and focused on the task at hand," he said.

Mathews was impressed by the play of three sophomores this season as well. Utility player Crystal Mahoney (Tecumseh, Neb.), shortstop Sara Roberts (Omaha) and infielder Ann Mornin

(Omaha) each solidified the Bobcats.

Mahoney's 49 stolen bases was the second highest mark in school history. She is nine steals away from the Bobcats' career mark. Mathews said her transition to the left side of the plate paid off this season. Roberts solidified the shortstop position, according to Mathews. "Her 'No holds barred' style of play and willingness to get dirty is a great example for the rest of the team," he said. "I count on Sara to also be a leader for the future of this team."

Momin split time between first and third base this season. Mathews said he could count on Momin every time she stepped on the diamond.

"I would characterize Ann as quiet consistency. She doesn't get all the credit she deserves for her play," he noted. "She is also a cornerstone for the team in the future."

With seven freshman breaking into the Bobcat lineup this season Mathews is excited about the future.

Bobcats Receive Post-Season Awards

Twelve Peru State student-athletes received post-season honors following the winter and spring seasons.

Sophomore men's basketball player Neil Hayhurst (Meriden, Kan.) was named AllRegion Scholar Athlete. He is the son of Neil and Carol (Tynon '71) Hayhurst.

Three women's basketball players received post-season honors. Senior Celeste Nolte (Falls City, Neb.) and junior DeeAnn Richardson (Tecumseh, Neb.) were both named NAIA All-Region, All-Region Scholar Athletes and All-America Scholar Athletes. Senior Amy Petry (Tarkio, Mo.)

was also named All-Region Scholar Athlete.

Two baseball players also received postseason at press time. Junior Brendan Raybourn (Bellevue, Neb.) and freshman Derek Dallorto (St. Albert, Alberta) were both named NAIA All-Section.

Six softball players also received AllSection honors.

They include seniors Krissy Tatum (Kearney, Neb.) and Melanie Tramp (Lincoln) and four sophomores, Crystal Mahoney (Tecumseh), Sommer Miller (Omaha), Ann Mornin (Omaha) and Sara Roberts (Omaha).

Men's Basketball Ends on High Note; Looks Toward Bright Future

There is nothing like saving your best until last.

The season that may appear to have been a disastrous one ended with the Peru State men's basketball squad one game away from the National Tournament.

The Bobcats finished the 1998-99 campaign with a 6-26 record and a lot of experience. With eight freshman set to return next season Coach John Gibbs is excited about the future of the program.

"After losing the (regional) championship game the guys were disappointed," Gibbs said. "I think whenever you lose the game that ends your season you are disappointed. They knew

they were 20 minutes away from going to the National Tournament."

The Bobcats, who won four straight before losing in the championship game of the Midwest Region Tournament, were led in the scoring column this season by junior forward Corey Scammen (Rock Port, Mo.) with 10.4 points a contest. Sophomore center Dan Stoakes (Bellevue, Neb.) chipped in 10.3 points a game as well.

"We took a lot of lumps this year. With the experience we gained and the talent we have returning this team is going to be fun to watch in the next few years," he said.

Women's Basketball Has Bitter Ending To Sweet Year

The Peru State women's basketball squad finished their successful campaign a little sooner than they had hoped this past season. Now the Bobcats have something to build on.

The Cats ended their season 19-10 and lost in the semi-finals of the NAIA Midwest , Region Tournament.

Two reasons for the Bobcats' success this season were the play of seniors, Celeste Nolte (Falls City, Neb.) and Amy Petry (Tarkio, Mo.). Nolte averaged 17.7 points a contest this season, the fourth highest average in school history.

She also moved into third place all-time on the scoring chart with 1,486 career points and her 762 career rebounds is sixth on the all-time list.

Petry was a deep threat for the Bobcats during her career. She leaves with the Bobcats' two career three-point field goal records, 158 makes and 491 attempts.

Six Bobcats who saw action in all 29 games are set to return next season including DeeAnn Othmer-Rkhardson (Tecumseh, Neb.) who averaged 11.9 points a contest. She is No. 17 on the Bobcat all-time scoring chart.

"We have come close to reaching the National Tournament the past few years," Kreklau said. "I feel with the experience we have returning and the strength of our recruiting class we should be able to accomplish our goals next winter."

Volleyball set to reach new heights in '99

With all but two players returning from last years' 2318 squad, the Peru State volleyball players don't know how high to set their goals in 1999, but a return trip to the NAIA National Tournament is in the picture.

Starting this fall the NAIA will change how team's qualify for post-season play but Coach Todd Jensen said the only thing that will change is how exact the Bobcats' goals are for next season.

"We won't know until August how the qualification process unfolds," he said. "Right now we have set some general goals for the court and in the classroom. We will see how it all unfolds next fall."

But looking at the Bobcat roster things look to be in check for a successful campaign. Jensen said the middle position looks to be the strongest after spring drills. The Bobcats return seniors Tracy Makovicka (Lincoln, Neb.) and Heather Schroeder (Liberty, Neb.) along with sophomore · Jenny PitzI (Omaha).

Makovicka has been voted co-captain by her teammates for 1999. Schroeder is the lone Bobcat who was a member of the 1996 National Tournament

squad. In 1998 she led the squad in blocking.

Two newcomers will also battle for playing time in the middle. Tonya Volk (Battle Creek, Neb.) and Meaghan Scanlan (Plattsmouth, Neb.) will join the squad this fall.

Scanlan is the lone freshman recruit this season for the Cats but Jensen said he expects Scanlan to jump in and contribute immediately in the middle or outside.

Only one outside returns from last year's varsity squad but Jensen has three experienced college players to pencil into the spot. Sophomore Janelle Findlay (Stella, Neb.) returns after being named second team All Midwest Region as a freshman. Jensen said her role this fall will be different than her rookie year.

On the rightside the Bobcats return three veterans as well.

Senior Julie Bixler (Raytown, Mo.) join juniors Randi Mayberry (Nebraska City) and Kelly Scheel (Columbus. Neb.).

Sophomore Amanda Kemling (Aurora, Neb.) returns to the setting position. She will be joined by ReeAnna Morgan (Lincoln) who redshi1ted last season after knee surgery. ·

Two defensive specialists should help the Bobcats this fall.

Senior Candy Kasi (Staplehurst, Neb.) and sophomore Sarah LeGresley (Lawrence, Kan.) possess tremendous hustle, according to Jensen.

Jensen said the chemistry on this year's squad may be the best since he has been in Peru. "I'm pretty confident this fall with how the team fits together."

The Bobcats start 1999 in Hawaii and face perhaps the most rugged schedule in PSC history.

He also is proud how his squad has come together in the classroom as well. The Bobcats will receive the American Volleyball Coaches Association's Team Academic Excellence Award for the third straight season.

"When I took the job at Peru in the fall of 1996 I swore I would make academics as much of a priority as athletics," Jensen said. "Although I have little to do with it, this retlects the level of commitment every member of the tem.i.1. bas to ow;; program. This award is as much a goal of ours as a National Tournament appearance."

Dan Johnson Heads PSC Foundation

In just four months since his arrival as the new Executive Director of the Peru State .College Foundation, Dr. Dan Johnson has made his presence known.

The powerful and positive impression Johnson makes on those he meets stems from his background, training and personality. But Johnson also credits it to the excitement he feels in coming to Peru State College.

A Rosy View

Peru State College's 25th President, D1: Ben E. Johnson, enjoys the view of The Campus of A Thousand Oaks from cemete1y hill. But his view of the future of Nebraska's first college is even brighta

Johnson: PSC's Best Years Are Still Ahead

by Kent Propst and Kristi Nies

On a late October morning, new Peru State College

President Ben E. Johnson sat down to discuss his early impressions of the institution, his aspirations for Nebraska's

first college, and to talk a bit about his own background and his preparations for the PSC presidency.

Dr. Johnson came to Peru State in June from Georgia, where he had been Vice President of Academic Affairs

and Dean of the Faculty at a private college. A native Iowan, he has worked in higher education from coast-tocoast in capacities from facutty to fundraiser to adniinistrator.

(Continued on Page 3)

Enrollment Beats Odds; Small Drop

Though enrollment for ·the fall semester at Peru State College is down, make no mistake about it: the numbers left college officials anything but discouraged.

After expectations of an enrollment drop in the double digits due to more than two years' worth of controversies involving Nebraska's first college, President Ben E. Johnson said enrollment as of the Oct. 15 reporting date reflected a decline of just 31 students, or 1.8 percent.

Mid-October enrollment at PSC was 1,664 compared to 1,695 atthe same time one year earlier. Off-campus enrollment actually reflected an increase, Dr. Johnson noted.

"Given all of the challenges Peru State faced over the past year or two, these numbers really are remarkable," Dr. Johnson said. "According to our Admissions Office staff, virtually every prospective student this past year had serious questions about Peru State's stability. It took hard work by college personnel, a lot of vocal support by alumni and friends, and a lot of faith by our students to get to where we are today."

Controversy surrounding the future of the campus has yielded two years of enrollment declines after several years of growth. Peru State still shows a net increase in enrollment over the past six years accord-

ing to Coordinating Commission for Postsecondary Education figures. Over that period of time, Peru State - and perhaps only Peru State - can make that claim.

Dr. Johnson and other PSC supporters are convinced the worst is over. A campaign to increase the student population, both on-campus and offcampus, is being readied.

"After anticipating much worse news on enrollment than has come to pass this fall, we' re positioned even better than we dared to hope to make the kinds of strides Peru State College is capable of achieving over the next two or three years," Dr. Johnson said.

"This institution has a destiny far in excess of anything it has realized to date," Johnson said. "If alumni want to know what Peru State can become, they only need to look at the best of public higher education in the country - they'll see a foreshadowing of what this institution can be."

The PSC Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation separate from the college itself. The Foundation's mission is to provide private support for the betterment of the College.

"I met with Dan just days after I had been appointed President of Peru State but even before I had come on campus," noted PSC President Ben Johnson (no relation). "I knew right away ·he was the person we needed. So did the search committee and the

Exceeded expectations

"If anything, Dan has exceeded my high expectations," President Johnson added. "His vision, his leadership and his approach to development work are a marvel to behold."

Johnson's principal task is to gain private funding and support for the College through the auspices of the 45-year-old PSC Foundation (formerly the Peru Achievement Foundation). It's governed by a 66-'member Board of Trustees made up of PSC supporters from across the nation. Dr. Les Russell ('51) of Peru is the PSCF President.

(Continued on Page 4)

First Call for May Reunion!

Get ready all of you "Cool 'Cats" .from the Class of 1950. We expect you to rally 'round this spring for the next "May Reunion" at Peru State College.

The Class of '50 will be the featured group when we get together on Friday and Saturday, May Now is the time for all of you class members to start calling and writing one another, encouraging people to attend.

We'll welcome the Class of '51 as special guests, so that they can come pay homage to their elders. And as is always the case, invitations will go to all who graduated between 1935-49, too - the May Reunion is for all of our "golden .grads," not just the 50-year group.

So let's get busy and start making plans now for the 2000 May Reunion. If you have questions, contact Kent Propst at Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421 or call (402) 872-2225.

(Photo by Kent Propst)

Dr. Dan Johnson Foundation board.

Peru State Develops College-Community Group

Peru State PerfectSave for Sea & Sushi

After l was appointed President but before arriving on the Campus of A Thousand Oaks last June, l will admit to a preconception of this college. Despite its travails over the last couple of years, I thought it was just about the most perfect opportunity for me imagineable.

Imagine my surprise as l have come to realize, l think I've underestimated the place.

Now, if Peru State only had an ocean, and a · good sushi bar, nearby

Please understand-! did a tremendous amount of research on Peru State before I would even agree to come for an interview. I spoke with people I've known who attended Peru State. As a native Iowan I knew, or thought I knew, .what to expect from the people.

I was well aware of the turbulence ihe college faced. But I've always been of the opinion that obstacles only create opportunities, if you just choose to approach it in that fashion.

Beyond expectations

I've been impressed beyond expectations with the people and the place. The students have been wonderful, warm and welcoming. It's apparent that those who came through the ·ordeal suffered every bit as much as did the faculty, staff, alumni and area citizens, but they have been remarkably resilient.

The faculty is a strong and sound one. What people too often forget, given the dynamics of the situation .in recent years, is that as the storm clouds rolled in and thundered, the essence of Peru State College's greatnessteaching and learning - continued unabated. I tip my hat to the faculty for their steadfastness.

The staff here, like the f acuity, is small and overworked. But their dedication to the mission of Peru State College shows in the good work they produce every day. And they, too, have been so supportive of me since my arrival that I've never for a moment felt like an "outsider."

I've only been to a few PSC alumni functions but I was warned in advance that Peru State alums are borderline fanatics. I'm not sure "borderline" is appropriate. I am anxious to meet more as I make the rounds of alumni activities; it heartens me to hear your stories of what this unique place has done for you and means to you.

Political support

Another surprise has been my experiences with Nebraska politicians. I was fairly certain the challenge of educating many of the lawmakers about the value of Peru State would be among my biggest and toughest chores. Instead, though there are expectations of Peru State - and there SHOULD be - every Senator I've met has made it clear: they want Peru State to not just succeed, but excel. We will.

Gov. Mike Johanns is among the chief supporters of Peru State; each time we meet, he makes ME feel good about the college rather than vice versa. And our area lawmakers, Sens. Floyd Vrtiska and Roger Wehrbein, are tireless workers on our behalf.

This beautiful campus has a bright future. Peru State has the air of a private, New England college but with the low cost and · strength of a state college. PSC facilities are

lovely, "period" buildings that deserve to be preserved for the next I 30 years and beyond.

In southeast Nebraska I find a "community of small communities" that have much, collectively, to offer. And the college is within easy reach of metropolitan areas and their resources. In the meantime, I enjoy the fresh air, peace and quiet, the friendly and polite

Dr. Ben E. Johnson President

people, and absence of traffic jams and rampant crime that I've experienced elsewhere.

I'm prepared

I have lived in small towns and big cities, and have worked at institutions large and small. I have experience at every level of higher education: professor, program director, department chair, division chair, dean, graduate dean, academic vice president, educational fund raiser, community activist, political lobbyist for education.

It's hard to imagine Peru State facing any problem of a nature that/ haven't encountered somewhere, sometime during my career.

Those of you who I am fortunate enough to meet will find me a genuine human being, filled with energy, enthusiasm and passion. What you see is what you'll get. ! like people, and I approach my craft with vigor and exuberance.

I've enjoyed living in the President's Home across the street from campus. It's a lovely place. But it's been a little more quiet then I care to have it; somethings been missing. Fortunately for me, that's about to change: My best friend

In just a couple of weeks from when you get this Stater, I will marry my best friend Dale Pepin. She's my "banker babe" from Thomasville, Georgia, who has her own rich and varied professional background. Dale is positively enamored with Peru and Peru State College, and her son Henry is anxious to begin his studies at Peru Elementary School. They will not only enrich my life, but will make their own marks in Peru soon enough.

I do have three grown children of my own, Steven, Susan and Shelley. All live in California. My daughters are married and have provided me with four wonderful grandchildren, Nathan, Savannah, Jaida and Nicholas. One daughter is an artist, one is a ' nurse, and my son is a writer. To them l say, "come visit, and bring the grandkids. And sushi."

So that's Ben Johnson and his preliminary take on Peru State College. I am compelled to tell you that much work remains to be done. Your alma mater will continue to find itself closely scrutinzed for the foreseeable future.

You, dear reader, play your own critical :rote as we shape that future. But what fun we will have! And what achievements we will create for this wonderful college!

The future of Peru State College has never been brighter.

Sixteen area leaders have agreed to serve Peru State College by serving on an advisory board, according to PSC President Ben E. Johnson.

The new CollegeCommunity Coordinating Committee held its inaugural meeting this past Sept. 14 on the Peru State campus. The group is expected to meet three to four times annually, Dr. Johnson said.

Committee members are expected to both represent their community's interests to Pres. Johnson and to carry information about the college back to those communities.

"The agenda for the committee will be broad and consist of presenting new ideas to it for reaction and feedback," Dr. Johnson said. He also

wants members to let him know how college initiatives are being received across the region.

Members of the new committee include John Chaney of Auburn, Sara Donovan ('85) of Omaha, Brenda Rausch Douglas ('83) of Humboldt, Jud Douglas (attd. '56) of Cook, Bill Farmer of Rock Port, Mo., Doug Friedli of Nebraska City, Russell Hicks ('63) of Johnson, Steve Kottich of Falls City, Janelle Rathe Moran ('95) of Sterling, Lori Vrtiska Siebel ('84) of Lincoln, Linda Smith of Beatrice, Dick Spiegel of Watson, Mo., Joe Stehlik of Pawnee City, Carol Ward of Plattsmouth, Mark Weiler ('71) of Syracuse, and Ardith Wininger of Peru.

Kansas City Cancelled

The 1999 Kansas City-Area Alumni Reunion scheduled for October set a precedent, but not one we want to see repeated.

The youngest of Peru State's alumni groups had to cancel its annual get-together because of lack of interest. It's the first time in years, perhaps ever, that a Reunion was called off in such a fashion. College and chapter officials will be attempting to determine· if we just picked a bad day or if KC-area alums aren't interested in supporting a chapter. If the latter, the chapter could be placed on the college's inactive chapter list.

Comments and suggestions are welcome; contact Kent Propst, Peru State College,

Lincoln Bash in November

The Lincoln-Area Alumni Reunion took place on Nov. 12, after the deadline for Peru Stater material.

Full coverage of the assembly will be included in the Spring issue of the Stater.

P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421 or e-mail him at propst@bobcat.peru.edu or call (402) 8722225.

President Dr. Ben E. Johnson

Editor Kent Propst ('81)

Features Kristi Nies

Assistants

Carolyn Bredemeier Jackie Baker Williams ('81)

Sports Chris Erickson

Photography

Elizabeth Olsen .C02)

The Peru Stater is published three times per year by Peru State College with the suppport of the PSC Foundation. The Stater is printed at the Beatrice (Neb.) Daily Sun. Send comments, news items and address changes to: The Peru Stater, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Nebraska 68421-0010. The Peru State College phone number is (402) 872-3815. Send e-mail to: propst@bobcat.peru.edu

Best Years Ahead

The personable, animated Johnson freely discussed his own often-troubled early years, how higher education proved to be his salvation, and his own aggressive and ambitious agenda for Peru State College. He clearly believes the best years for Nebraska's first college are yet to come.

KP. How has your upbringing and background shaped your approach toward education?

A. I was a rotten kid and even worse as a student, a very angry child and a very angry adolescent. That reflected itself in the way I treated school. I thought classes were things you had to go to, if you didn't they would put you in jail. So I suffered through elementary, middle school and high school. I was sort of a '50s equivalent of a juvenile delinquent, complete with a switchblade and leather jacket.

KN. What were you angry about?

A. Being different. My folks were foreigners, Norwegian, did not speak English very well, and were very poor. It set me apart from everybody else.

KP. What changed you?

A. Through a series of circumstances I started at a community college - I was forced to start at a community college one summer. My choice was either to be in more trouble or enter a program that was designed for kids at risk. There were four courses and I had three incredible teachers who would not let me fail. They would not let me apply my lazy learning skills and habits to my co_urses. They showed such concern for me that they would call me every single weekend to make sure that I was doing my homework, that I had read the assignment, that I had prepared the speech, was studying for the test, made sure that I actually attended class. The consequence of that attention was that I began to learn to learn. And while learning to learn, I discovered that as I learned, I liked what I was learning.

KN. You used the phrase "learn to learn." So you don't think learning is an innate skill, and that sorne have to be taught how to be students?

A. I think that some, for instance if your family is a "learning family" when you're

On The Run

a child, you grow up with a reverence and a respect for books, for acquiring information. If you don't have that basic start, then you get a different attitude towards learning and studying - that it's unnecessary, not important. If you have that negative attitude and you decide you want to learn, you may not be equipped to learn.

KN. What about your academic career up to this point has prepared you to be a college president?

A. I thought about this before I applied for the position. Was I ready for this kind of thing? My conclusion was yes - I'm tremendously well prepared for this position. That sounds a little egocentric but let me explain. I think you prepare in two ways. You prepare by personality, and you prepare by experience. Do you like the kinds of tasks you're going to have? Do you like meeting with people? Do you like fundraising? Do you like managing? Do you like working with boards and those kinds of things? And I would have to conclude that those are not things I'm unfamiliar with; I'd had much experience with all of those at every level. My personality lends itself to being a president and my experience gave me a pretty complete education on what it takes to be a president. I cannot imagine one problem coming up here at Peru that I have not had some exposure to in the past someplace else.

KN. You came to a troubled

Page 1

Joh.·nson..... For Assistance

When Dr. Ben Johnson assumed tile presidency of PSC, he knew that part of his rc>le .called for him· to be a ¢hange agent.

"It took a few. weeks to get rnY bearings,'' he said, ''but an important student financing problem soon attracted my attention."

What he found was that. during the most recent acade" mic. year, ;116 of 225 fresllmen (56 percent) received finanM cial. assistance (other •than ge>vernment programs based· strictly on aid formula.s} I;\$ compared to only 141of800upperdassment(17 percent). ..... ··.···

HThe·•reason is that we do ne>t help upperclassmen who need and Johnson .said. ·.·. <

He coJ]tinuet:t, ''This. aid de(idt Ila$ ·for the.students and the. college· jtself• Tbe borre>wing by our graduates is .··

"La$t year, for exalllple, the. average debt .ofour ating seniors who borrowed was J(lhns(ln said. "This directly related. to the lilllited finandalassistance avaifal>le as students move .into the upper cla.Sses at J>SC.

institution both externally and internally. Why would you choose the Peru State situation as your first presidency?

A. I wish that Peru had escaped all of those troubles and all those difficulties, but if that had been the case I would not have applied to be President here. I actually applied to three others besides Peru, and I was offered a position at all these other places. I turned one down simply because they had nothing for me to do. It had everything in place, everything was running just fine. All they really wanted was a figurehead to attend functions and socials. That doesn't lend itself to my personality and the vigor I have for getting involved in things. So I was not looking for an easy task; I was looking for someplace that needed me, needed the skills and qualities I have. Peru fit that need. But the kinds of issues that Peru has had to deal with are not troublesome problems to me. I see many things we must do. We must make sure we answer all the questions people might have. But that's normal, that's what you do at any college.

KP. You obviously did your homework on Peru before you ever got here, but did the situation match your expectations after you began work?

A. The impression that I got was. that people were relieved that they finally had a president, and now we can get started. I've been here four months now, and as those weeks have passed I've seen a range of emotions and feel-

"This aid imbalance makes it impossible fmt some to continue their edtJ.cation," he· added •. "I. would like to see every academically quaJified· student who :wants a· f.1:0.m .J.>er11 .state College be able to obb•in. 0ne, tive their financial situation. ·. ·.• > .·

'"t!iis Pt"oblein Coll.ege·. ; deiltsJcll"()P. their edt1.cation.1;tJ · out l"l;lte >' increases,. th11s· Jowering.the enrolhJle)]t/' ; .lower.· enrollment m.eans. th;,.t finiµlcirusupport •... ·· ·

HS9 l. ani·. appealing !o ·us

Fund• I have alulllili fund.s .. to tile PSC .. ..

cl.as...·smen" he said

exphdns the •problem. I·.Jme>w

ings. Some are still wondering, questioning "what's he going to be able to accomplish?" But the major emotion I have felt is acceptance and welcome. People have been extraordinarily supportive of everything I've suggested we might want to do. That is the result of the experience of the last couple of years; there were so many discouraging days, so many demands and surprises and negative issues that came up.. I've said it before: the worst thing that happened to this school is the past couple of years, but the best thing that happened to me as a new president is the past couple of years. Everybody seems so willing to contribute. Peru needed a presence on campus who could assure the college family that we're here, we're secure, we're not only going to stay in business but we're going to be aggressive in our actions - to build a strong campus based upon the

heritage and traditions of the , past. For now, much of my focus will be off-campus things, establishing our position once again in Nebraska and adjoining states. For my first 90 days I spoke to different organizations off-campus 62 different times.

KP. What else helped convince you that this was the place to be?

A. I love the way this campus looks. This is my ideal campus. It has the appearance and feel of a private East Coast college, but with the strength and financial stability of a state institution. That's a wonderful combination. It's also exactly the right size.

I've always said I'd love to be President of a college with about 2,000 students. However, now that I've been here for awhile I don't want it to stay that way. l want it to grow.

(Continued on Page 6)

President Johnson has spent much of his early weeks on campus as a sort of travelling ambassador for the College. Among his early appearances was the Rocky Mountain Alumni Association meeting in August, where he had a chance to meet Carol Duerfeldt Whitcomb ('52), one of the chapter officers. (Photo courtesy Beth Propst Mierau '82)

Ken Boxley was born and raised in Imperial Valley, California. He graduated from high school in 1943 during the midst of the Second World War. Wanting to become a pilot, Ken joined the Navy and passed the battery of physical and mental tests required for admission into the V-5 aviation cadet program. He was assigned to Peru State College where he spent nine months before being sent to the Great Lakes naval base and then on to the Pacific. Ken served out his time as a Navy signalman.

He has many fond memories of his athletic and academic experiences at PSC. While attending the Campus of A Thousand Oaks Ken was a football quarterback. He remembers playing the Second Air Force at Sioux City. Peru gained more passing yardage than the Air Force team, even though they were led by All American Glen Dobbs, a former University of Tulsa football star.

After the war Ken tried his hand at a number of jobs, eventually working himself into the publishing business. During the 60's, he became the Vice President, General Manager and a Director of Auto-Graphics, Inc., a public company on the leading edge of computer typesetting technology and database management.

In 1972 Ken began his own company, United Publishers Corporation, which sold advertising and published yellow pages Ken Boxley directories in Southern California and Portland, Oregon. With an ir,iitial investment of $1000, Ken expanded UPC from a one-man company to a profitable multi-million dollar corporation with six subsidiaries providing income for 300 families. He was UPC's CEO until it merged with NYNEX (now Bell Atlantic) in 1986.

Ken has continued to pursue his business interests. He was Chairman of the B&B Publishing Company which publishes yellow pages directories in Hawaii. And, he served as a Director of the Advanced Physics Corporation which developed the magnetic self-collider, a portable nuclear fusion power plant.

In 1990 Ken co-authored "A Sales Manager's Complete Manual of Forms, Agreements, Policies and Procedures". This extensive compendium was published by Prentice Hall's Professional Division.

Today, much of Ken's interest is devoted to philanthropy. With the belief that education provides the best opportunity for self-improvement, he established the Ken Boxley Foundation which assists deserving, needy graduate students. Through the Ken Boxley Community Leadership Scholarship Program at Rutger's University, he helps managers employed in government and non-profit organizations pursue the MBA degree.

The foundation has provided funding for advanced degrees to students at Columbia University, St. John's University, the University of Chicago, the University of Michigan, the University of Southern California, Columbia University's Teachers College and St. Benedict College.

In conjunction with the Project Excellence Program of journalist Carl Rowan, Ken provides funds for the PauJ Robeson Scholarship which he established at Rutger's University. The program supports undergraduate education · of the best African American high school graduates from Washington D.C. schools.

Every summer since 1988, Ken has sponsored young musicians in an intensive study program at the Ken Boxley Performance Institute at Rutger's University. The institute provides master classes to promising musical performers and allows them to participate in Rutger's annual Summerfest celebration.

Foundation & Alumni Office Send Survey; Response Sought

The PSC Foundation and the college's Alumni. Office are working together to mail a survey to college friends and alums this fall.

Dr. Dan Johnson, new Executive Director of the Foundation, said "It is vital for an institution to higher education today to know who its alumni are and involve them in helping to create the future. I was surprised upon arriving here this summer at how little we know about who Perµ State College's alumni are and what they do."

Kent Propst, who directs PSC's alumni program, explains that "people move around so much today that alumni files become dated in a very short time. Our last PSC alumni directory was published only a couple of years ago, and already 20-30 percent is incorrect.

"We plan to develop a new directory next year to remedy this situation," he added. "The problem is that we won't have a finished copy of that directory for two years. These things take a long time to complete when a college has

as many alumni as PSC does."

In the meantime, the Foundation and the Alumni Office are sending alumni surveys which will update files. "Current files benefit alumni," Johnson explained. "The College and the Foundation contact alumni several times throughout the year about collegiate events and issues. The Stater alone is mailed three times a year, not to mention other correspondence which is a vital link between the College and its alums."

Propst asked that "all alumni and friends of the College, please, complete and return the survey as soon as you receive it. It only takes a few moments to complete, but it will help us stay in touch.

"It is so easy for a college and an alumnus to lose track of one another," he added. "We currently have about a thousand alumni we are unable to contact. Filling out and returning the survey will prevent the list of lost alums from growing."

Johnson Heads PS F.

Dan Johnson came to Peru State after five highly successful years at Upper Iowa University in Fayette. During that time, Upper Iowa saw its endowment grow by 383 percent - the greatest growth by any of Iowa's 29 public and private colleges and universities.

"What I was looking for when I interviewed at Peru was a place with unrealized potential," he said. "I saw a significant opportunity to help make Peru State all that it can become."

A strong background. beyond successful fundraising caught the eye of College and. Foundation search committee members. Johnson had been President of two private colleges (Mt. St. Clare in Iowa and the former Marymount College in Kansas) for a total of 11 years.

Professor, dean

Married to JoAnn, who works in the PSC library, and with two grown children, Dan Johnson taught philosophy at the University of Kansas, from which he holds masters and doctoral degrees. He was a dean at both St. Francis College in Pennsylvania and at the University of Steubenville (Ohio).

Those experiences allowed him to hit the ground running when he came to the Campus of A Thousand Oaks last July 19. And he hasn't slowed down since.

"I've spent much of my first four months doing two things," Johnson said. "We

needed to make a broad assessment as to the potential for Foundation growth and to identify those who could help make it grow.

"Also, I've worked with President Johnson, the Foundation trustees and College staff to begin laying the foundation for a more structured approach to fundraising," he said.

"I think the ground is prepared for the implementation of professional fundraising. It's a fertile field, but there is a lot of work that needs to be done," he said.

As Johnson gets a more structured development approach in place he'll have more time to do the actual fundraising amongst alumni and other supporters of PSC. He's done some of that already, with enviable success.

Warm reception

"The reception I've gotten from alumni and other friends of the College has been very warm and supportive," Johnson said. "I've been quite impressed with the loyalty PSC alums manifest.

"The difficult times of the last couple of years have set the stage for a level of alumni involvement far beyond what it's been," he added.

Increased private support isn't just a goal, Johnson noted. It's an expectation, one clearly defined by both the state's hig'her education Coordinating Commission and by the Nebraska Legislature.

"It's absolutely essential that we respond to the chal-

From Page 1

Ienges of the last couple of years," Johnson noted. "In meetings that Pres. Johnson and I have had with some state senators, without fail each articulated an interest in the growth of the Foundation."

The benefits project across the entire campus, he explained.

"Our success in fundraising can help strengthen every program on campus - acade- · mies, student services, athletics, administrative," he said. "We can provide funds so those programs grow and flourish, and we can help involve appropriate alumni in these programs.

Alumni experts

"A fully-functioning Foundation, you see, brings not just funds but expertise and knowledge to an institution," he added.

It's apparent when visiting with Dan Johnson that Foundation work involves much more than raising dollars. Building lifelong support, installing sustainable development programs that will carry through for years, and enabling alumni involvement in the operation of the college are just some of the related benefits of a successful Foundation program.

"Peru State College and the PSC Foundation can do everything in terms of private support that the best similar-sized public institutions in the country can do," he insists. "I think we can do just as well as anyone, if not better."

Memorial Gifts Welcome Time!

Dozens of scholarship funds · have been established by Peru State College supporters through the years, and others will designate the PSC Foundation as a target for memorial gifts when they pass on, too.

Please remember that you can add to an established scholarship, or contribute to a memorial fund, at any time. It's a great way to target your gift to a specific purpose.

That's what people on the foilowing list have done, and the students at Peru State College are better off for it.

If you'd like to add to an existing scholarship or contribute to a memorial fund, or would like more information about doing so, contact Dr. Dan Johnson, Peru State College Foundation, P.O. Box· 10, Peru, Neb. 68421 or call (402) 872-2304.

Our appreciation to these recent donors:

Laurine Anderson

Tri Beta Scholarship

Moras Shubert

Merle Bauer Scholarship

Glen & Marilyn Tucker

Heywood

E.C. Beck Scholarship

Pauline Lyle Scott

Al Brady Scholarship

Susan Lunzmann Unruh

Evalyn Gilbert Christy Memorial

Harold Christy

Margaret Christy Piper

A.B. Clayburn Scholarship

Ansel and Barbara Bragg

Clayburn

S.L. Clements Band Scholarship

Robert A. Leahy

Kent Coleman Memorial

Jan Wilson

Bo Cowel Memorial

Kent and Becki Young Propst

Carol Grundman Dougherty Scholarship

Jack and Mary Dougherty

Gilman

Fern Dougherty Johanns

Elizabeth Dougherty Scholarship

Jack and Mary Dougherty

Gilman

Fern Dougherty Johanns

Helen Naeve Douglas Scholarship

Jud Douglas

Gerald Fichter Memorial

Family and friends

Richard Flynn/Floyd Vrtiska Scholarship

Marion "Butch" & Barbara Lasko Miller

Kent & Becki Young Propst

Dwight Wininger

Glen and Verda Frary Scholarship

SaraBeth Donovan

Kathryn Gamlin Memorial

Earl Gamlin

Chris Haddad Scholarship

Kent & Becki Young Propst

Angela Rohwer

Benjamin Harrison Scholarship

Tracy Gibbons Donner

Loew Family Scholarship

Norma Loew

L.B. Mathews Scholarship

Max Mathews

Lyle McKercher Scholarship

Diana Schneider Calabro

Larry Cotton

Martha Melvin Memorial

Lester & Esther Holmes Russell

Mr. and Mrs. W.R. Pate Scholarship

Louise Pate

Harold Patterson Memorial

Lester & Esther Holmes

Russell

Troy Rippen Scholarship

Angelia Rohwer

Freida Rowoldt Memorial

Maxine Russell Moore

Irene Rubenking Memorial

Marion Iversen

Ruth Russell Scholarship

Rita Russell Hanna

The PSC Foundation also has endowment funds for the following scholarships; again, you can add to these funds at any time, and your gifts are tax-deductible.

C.E. Andrews

Bath Family

George & Iva Seid Brown

Esther Delzell Brownell

Pearl Morgan Butler

Campus of A Thousand

Oaks

Roy Chamberlain

C.C. Choyce

John Christ

Dr. J.W. Crabtree

Ada Crooker

Davidson Estate

Phyllis Davidson

Mac Dunning

Lura Henricks Eichler

Loure Salzman Firoved

Elsie Fisher

Esther Cole Franklin

Emma Hart Fuller

Lovisa Glaze

Helen Hanika

Clifford Harding

Arnold and Bertha Hilterman

Lena Huff

Harry and Mary Hutchinson

Dee and Kathleen Jarvis

Glenn D. Jenkins

Victor Jindra

Pearl Kenton

Georgia Klasek

Paul and Lillian Landolt

A. V. and Wilhelminin Larson

Art Majors

Charles Masopust

Hollis Masopust

Joe Masopust

John and Francis Schima Masopust

Irene and Mason Miller

Joy Elmer Morgan

Evalyn B. Newton

Omaha World Herald

Nona Palmer

Lester and Maxine Metcalf

Pankonin

Larry Pappas

Dale and Evelyn Park

Elaine Gerdes Pratt

Dale Priest

Ernest Rawson

Wayne 0. and Adele

Penterman Reed

A.B. Ritchie Basketball

Clarence and Mildred Russell

Lester and Esther Russell

Vincent Sabatinelli

George Schottenhamel

Bernice Shackelford

Ken Sims .

Beatrice Spohn

G. Holt "Pop" Steck

M.O. Stevenson

Bill and Jeanne Tynon

Maude Vacek

Dr. John and Daisy Clark

Wear

Bereniece McHirron

Weigand

Charles Weigand

Lisa Weis

Al Wheeler

Paul and Margaret Wilcox

Harold E. Willey

Gil and Mary Ruth Wilson

Jack D. and Eula M. Wolken

Zelma Wonderly

William Wortman

CO)J]l

Pat Rooney spent his elementary and high school days in and about the Peru State College campus where he developed a close attachment to the "Campus of a Thousand Oaks." He was attracted to the Peru State campus through his athletic and music interests.

He attended the Brownville Schools from the first grade through the tenth grade and then moved with his family to Nebraska City in the fall of 1940, Upon graduation from Nebraska City High School in 1943, he entered and later graduated from the University of Nebraska.

Pat attended Peru State College and the University of Minnesota as a· United States naval cadet. He was actively involved in musical groups and athletic teams at both Peru and Minnesota. Due to his participation in football, basketball and track, he was selected .....-------------. in I 944 as the Peru State College Athlete of the Year as the recipient of the Bert Swenson Award.

He has maintained his abiding interest in Peru State and returns to the campus as often as his schedule allows. He is a steadfast supporter of Peru State College. He works closely with the administration of Peru State College in raising funds for the school.

He received his Master of Science in Educational Administration from California State University, Long Beach in. Dr. Pat Rooney 1953. He earned a Doctoral Degree from the University of Southern California in Educational Administration in 1959.

He has been a teacher, coach, and school administrator in the California public schools for 38 years. His last superintendency was in the 19,000 student Ventura Unified School District where he served as chief administrator for 21 years. Subsequent to retiring from the California public schools, he was a professor of educational administration at the University of Southern California for eight years.

For the past six years he has served as a professor of educational administration at Azusa Pacific University, a Christian university in southern California.

He has written numerous books and articles related to the management and operation of public schools. He has also lectured widely within and outside of the state of California. His most recent book is entitled, A Nebraskan's Memoirs of the Great Depression: The Life and Times in Brownville, Nebraska.

In September, 1999 he returned to Peru State College where he and other members of the V-5N-12 athletic teams were inducted into the school's prestigious Hall of Fame. He also presented a lecture to students and faculty about his most recent book about The Great Depression.

NorCal 2000: Don't Miss It!

April 15 isn't all bad. At least, not this coming year.

No, the IRS hasn't decided to lighten up ·and skip a year. But they are sharing their most important date with Peru State's Northern California Alumni Association.

That annual reunion/celebration/bash has been scheduled for Saturday, April 15 at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield. It's easy to get to, just off Interstate 80, and easy to find. And they always take very good care of the visiting Bobcats.

So make a note on that brand-new 2000 calendar you just got, and make plans to be in Fairfield on April 15. We promise the event won't be too taxing.

For more information, contact any of the following: Rex ('42) and Hope ('42) Floyd, 417 Begonia Boulevard, Fairfield, Calif. 94533; Carlos Harrison ('51), 724 Laurel Ave. #201, San Mateo, Calif. 94401 ; or Bob "Red" Wilson ('51), 1650 Glenville Drive, San Jose, Calif. 95124.

The Search·1s0n For 'Lost' Alums

One of the biggest lenges facing the staff of The Peru Stater is trying to keep tabs on over 9,000 alumni, friends and former faculty.

The majority of Peruvians keep us informed when they move, but sometimes pie forget. That's when they end up on the "lost alumni'' list.

Following is a list of people who have been added to ou:r lost list in recent months. We've found that we have some of our .best Juck reducing tbe lost list by finding '.em quick.

If you can provide us with a current, home address on any of the following please forward the information to: Kent Pro.pst, Peru State College, P.O .. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or e-mail him at propst@bobcat.peru.edu, or call him at (402) 8722225. '

We thank you ,.:._ and so will the "lost"!

Amy Carnes - 1999

Graham R. Murray1999

John Cash -1998

Denise L. Teten - 1995

Morris Freedman - 1993

Robert Wright - 1993

Tammy Kruse Huwaldt1989

Steve Orton - 1984

Phyllis Wiggins - ·1981

Tom Ballue -1976

Judi Moul Leonard - 1976

Iris Nather - 1973

Jerome Tepper - 1963

LelandSmith -1960

LeRoy L. Scheele·..:. 1959

R. Eileen DeFreece

Turner -1958

Virgil E. Skipton - 1957

Phyllis Gess Lamb.- 1955

Raymond E. Reichart1953

Marcella Geiger - 1943

Bonita Wert Tucker1940

Marcella Karpisek - 1938

Carla Mitchell - no year

Thanks to those who have helped us to find "lost" Peru Staters in recent months: Georgia

Bixby of Lincoln, Neb.,

Don McKim ('51) of Calif., · and Richaf:dJ;_tood {'48) of Grand Island, Neb.

Best Years

So, I liked the way the campus looked, I liked the size of it, I think the high quality and great reputation of the school has been there forever. I have friends who attended Peru State that I've taught with at other places, telling me what a wonderful place it was to get an education. So I was not completely unaware of Peru State College.

KP. What have been your biggest frustrations so far?

A. Making people believe that I mean what I say when I say to them, "you do it. And you don't need my permission." There's been a history at this college where the president made all of the decisions. It might have been the best way to do it atthe time, but it's not the way I'm comfortable working. We needed to untangle the administrative decision-making process here so there wasn't this elaborate way of getting any job done. My way is to find the best people possible, give them the authority to make decisions, and make them accountable for those decisions. People are beginning to respond, although it's been something of a weaning process from the old ways.

KN. There seems to be such a noticeable change in attitude on campus. Was that a conscious decision, to work on the attitude of the campus?

A. Very definitely. I am just tickled that the attitude seems much more open and out-going. Some campuses function very effectively with everybody keeping their mouths closed and giving and getting a good education. My personality lends itself toward having people speak their mind for good or evil. And then you deal with whatever the implications of that are. It gives people the opportunity to buy in and take a share of the effort and responsibility on campus.

KN. But ultimatelv the decision rests with you? -

A. If it's a wrong decision it comes back to me quickly. I don't think we've had any of those problems since I've been here where somebody has made the wrong decision; of course, I make a conscious effort to forget the disasters and remember the successes. On the other hand, when people make the right decisions, I'm the first to say "atta-boy," you know, "here's a pat on the back and thank you very much," to encourage more

good decisions.

KN. What is the role of a college President? A cheerleader, a paper signer, a visionmy?

A. I think there's a variety of those things that a college president needs to be, but this year I think one quality is more important than all others. For us, image is the most important thing this year. The President has to provide a rallying point, someone around whom everyone can take pride and ownership. "That's our President, look what he's doing," kind of thing.

KP. Speaking of image, one of the most noticeable changes has been the physical appearance of campus. How important is it to this institution?

A. The image of the President needs to be backed up by the image of the school, and you can't have a positive, upbeat college image if the campus appearance is slighted. It's almost as if we are a family expecting company at any minute. We've got to keep things looking good so that when visitors come to campus they will not only feel comfortable, but will want to stay.

KP. What are your early impressions of Peru State students?

A. They're a wonderful, delightful mix of students. We have those who can compete on any level anywhere, who would be award-winning, honor-roll students. In addition we have a lot of students who are just like I was, who come with our acceptance of them as people willing to try and work hard. And they find a home, a place where they find out they're not able to stay average. In fact there is a new book just out, entitled "100 Colleges Where Average Students Can Excel," and Peru is one of those 100 colleges. The authors havf'. identified qualities and characteristics that make these schools especially supportive of students who might be considered average. But as the book points out, "average" is a starting point for students as they move to excellence. We have small classes, we have the close attention of the faculty, and that close attention does not allow students to remain average.

KP. You've spent a lot of time visiting with people across the region. How have you been accepted?

A. My acceptance has been remarkable. People who don't know me have spent a great deal of time assuring me that they want to see Peru succeed and establish itself once again in the State of Nebraska with a reputation of being a premier institution of learning. It doesn't really have much to do with me, it has to do with the fact that Peru State has this wonderful history of providing great training and great graduates.

KP. Let's talk about your meetings with Gov. Mike Johanns and State Senators. How has that gone?

A. I've met with the Governor on two separate occasions. As you know the Governor has been very supportive of the college over the past year, and continues to be a major supporter of Peru State. The Senators I've met have also been very supportive, at least by the time I left their office, and probably most of them were supportive before I walked into their office. They wanted to know what I had in mind for Peru State, what my plans were for the school, and how we were coming along in progressing toward the goals and objectives that have been widely publicized. With no exceptions all of the Legislators have said "this sounds good, you have my support." Every indication I have is that the entire legislature is aware of what's going on here and is supportive of the direction in which Peru State is headed.

KN. There seems to be a slew of interim administrative positions. Where is the college in that regard?

A. The interims were necessary. If I could have given advice to the school two years ago, I would've said, "Don't hire permanent people until you hire a permanent President, because the President needs to have a share in evaluating and establishing whether or not there is a compati hl e mix." I think it was wise to maintain interim status in several areas. I hope within the next six months that we can eliminate all of the interim positions. We're very close to a decision on our Academic Vice President and very close on making some decisions on I suspect that by this summer there will be no interims on campus.

KP. People on campus have heard you talk often of dis-

tance learning. What do you see happening in that area for Peru State?

A. It will be a major area of concentration over the next several years. All of the research says the traditional college campus will continue to be peopled by younger, more traditional college-age students who want the experience living in a residence hall, attending functions, dances, parties, and football games. In addition there will be students attending class on campus who may not be of traditional college age but who live nearby. That's not where growth is going to be in the future. The future is going to be in customizing educational programs and extending them from the campus to other communities and places where people who are perhaps working full-time, or are full-time moms, people who will only be able to take courses at non-traditional times. I see distance learning as becoming more and more important at Peru State. Distance learning doesn't mean internet-delivered courses only, nor just two"way active video fiber-optic delivered courses, nor does it mean simply sending a live instructor. to some remote location to teach a course. It needs a combination of all of those. What I'm seeing for the future is tremendous growth in our extended campus programs. In fact we are in the process of seeking a new assistant/associate Vice President for Technology and Extended Campus. The obligation for this person will be to develop Peru State College's outreach in whatever form to as many people as possible.

KP. What about physical changes in the form of campus construction - what do you see in both the short-term and over the next several years?

A. One very obvious change will be the new Campus Services addition and renovation. We'll renovate the west part, built in 1907, and create an entire new wing - it will be a marvelous addition to campus. I've told the architects it needs to be an example of "millennium construction'', to be distinctive and reflective of the year 2000. In addition we're going to see work begin on the addition and renovation of Hoyt Science Hall about the middle of next year, with roughly $4 million to be spent on that project.

(Continued on Page 7)

Rocky Mountain Reunion Returns to Denver Area

After a couple of years in Fort Collins, Colo., the Rocky Mountain Alumni Reunion returned to ttie Denver metropolitan area for its 1999 gettogether in August.

The event marked the first PSC alumni reunion for new College President Dr. Ben E. Johnson and for the PSC Foundation's new Executive Director, Dr. Dan Johnson.

Appropriately, each table in the restaurant in Arvada, Colo; was decorated with a variety of Johnson & Johnson products such as shampoo, talcum powder and the like, donated by Pat Benford Bornemeier · ('52) of Greeley, Colo. and Beth Propst Mierau ('82) of Loveland, Colo.

Chapter President Ellen Hunzeker Hajek ('62) called the meeting to order after a reception and lunch. Dean Karr ('41) gave the invocation.

Pres. Hajek read notes from alums unable to attend, and thanked event planners and/or raffle donators Pere Schmelzer (' 48), Carol Duerfeldt Whitcomb ('52), Bo Cowel ('34), Beth Propst Mierau, and Sue Moore Johnson ('60) for their efforts.

PSC President Ben Johnson, who had been on the job just eight weeks at the time, gave an enthusiastic talk on his plans for the college. Johnson told the group he thought he was "born to be" the president of the college.

He spoke of plans to raise the college enrollment, to improve perceptions about PSC, and to assure people the

Eyes on the Prize

Rocky Mountain Alumni chapter President Ellen Hunzeker Hajek ( '62, right) extols the virtues of this PSC clock during the chapter's raffie fimdraiser this past fall. Obviously enjoying Ellen's salesmanship were (left) Pere Schmelzer ('48) and Dr. Dan Johnson, executive director of the PSC Foundation.

college is sound and strong. His remarks were followed by a question-and-answer session.

Dr. Dan Johnson, only with the college for a couple of weeks, was then introduced. He discussed fund raising strategies that he sees happening at the college, and encouraged· all to be sure to include PSC in their own estate plans.

A slate of officers was proposed and elected by unanimous vote to serve during 1999-2000. They include Mick Bornemeier ('51), President; Beth Propst Mierau ('82), Vice President; Carol Duerfeldt Whitcomb ('52), Secretary; and Pat

N.ews about

1910s

The late Alexander J. Stoddard ('16), who was the firstever recipient of Peru State College's Distinguished Service Award back in 1960, was featured in a summer edition of the Westchester (N.Y.) Historian magazine. Stoddard worked his way through college at Peru, later earned degrees from the University of Nebraska and from Columbia University, and enjoyed a legendary career as an educational administrator in New York, Rhode Island, Colorado and Pennsylvania before ending his career running the public school system in Los Angeles. He also chaired the National Education Association's prestigious Department of Superintendence.

1920s

The awards continue to accumulate for Marion Marsh Brown ('27) of Valley, Neb. Last spring the renowned educator and prolific author was accorded the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from the University of NebraskaOmaha in recognition of her career. Dr. Brown taught at UN-0, just as she taught at Peru State earlier in her career.

1930s

Benford Bornemeier ('52), Treasurer.

A PSC jacket provided by the Bobcat Bookstore was auctioned off, with Sue Moore Johnson claiming the prize and immediately donating it to Dean Karr. Bo Cowel ('34) and Edna Maystrick Fitch ('34) were honored for being the earliest grads on hand, while Lance Wilson ('78) received a prize for being the most recent alum in attendance.

The 2000 Reunion will once again be held in mid-August (Saturday, Aug. 12) at a location to be determined later.

Best Years Ahead ................ From Pages

We're also working on a plan to "celebrate" - and that's the word we're using, celebrate - the entrance to Peru State College from Park Avenue. We want to make it much more attractive. There will be other things that will pop up in the near future. For example, a new Oak Bowl. That doesn't mean we're moving the Oak Bowl, just working with the existing Oak Bowl to create a new stadium and facilities.

KP. What are your initial opinions about Peru State alumni?

A. They are enthusiastic, supportive, and want to assist

in the development of the college. Where our alumni are different than some college's alumni is, most haven't been asked to do a lot of things for the college, at least not on the scale they'll be asked to in the future. That may be a little scary for some. It's important that we assure them, we need more than cheerleading and applause. Peru State College alumni will play a critical role - perhaps THE critical role - in the future of this institution.

KP. What do you want PSC alums to tell others who ask about the College?

A. I think they should say "We've had an opportunity to

take a hard look at the direction in which this college is headed. The decision has been to grow, expand, enhance its facilities and services and programs. Peru State College values its traditions, but it won't be your grandfather's Oldsmobile " KP. What do you hope your legacy at Peru State College will come to be?

A. I just want people to be able to look back and say, "Wasn't it fun? Look at the good things we did, the great graduates we produced. The college that was filled with optimism, excitement and opportunities."

Harold ('38) and Alice Grush ('57) Johnson of Auburn, Neb. reached a milestone this summer when they celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary. Harold and Alice were both long-time educators in the area. They have quite a PSC history - daughters Ruth ('53), and Janice ('56), son-in-laws Marvin Gerdes ('53) and Tom Moen ('57), and grandson Mike Gerdes ('88) all attended Peru State College. Harold served Peru State College in various capacities from 1951 until retiring in 1982 as Professor Emeritus of Education.

Muriel Sugden Newhauser (attd. '35-'36) said' she was "appalled" that the '30s Peruviana section of last spring's Peru Stater was devoid of news. This active resident of Lamita, Calif. has been retired from the Los Angeles City School system since 1980 but she continues to work as a judge at dog shows across the country. "Some people may be sitting home in their rocking chairs, but here is one that keeps on going," she wrote.

Another who isn't letting any grass grow beneath his feet is Merl Peek ('35) of Tucson, Ariz. Merl recently was honored by that city's "Youth On Their Own" program for his dedication to this worthwhile cause. YOTO supports prevention of homelessness by young people, and provides support and guidance to some 500 youth in that area, After leaving PSC and serving in the U.S. Navy, Merl got a law degree from Georgetown University and lived and worked in Washington, D.C.; he was part of the Legal Department of UOP Inc., now jointly owned by Allied Signal and Union Carbide. He and his wife Jean have lived in Arizona since 1981, and he has served on boards including Boy Scouts and the American Cancer Society.

Beatrice Stoft Vossler ('34) of Friend, Neb. had as an October birthday wish a visit to her alma mater. She received a special motorized campus tour with PSC's Kent Propst, and we are counting on her to repeat the birthday treat next year!

Robert Weber ('39) of Shubert, Neb., continues to support his alma mater in many different ways. This fall he donated a four-volume set of books that were used by his father D.H. Weber ('10), who was once superintendent of schools in Humboldt, Neb.

(continued on page 8)

(Photo by Kent Propst)

Two Peru State Construction Projects Advance

Over $3.4 million worth of construction projects at Peru State College were given the green light this past summer, according to Dr. Ben E. Johnson, PSC President.

Just over $1.9 million will go to renovate what will come to be known as the Campus Services Building, now called the Physical · Plant and which once housed the manual/industrial arts program. Another $1.5 million is designated for improvements in residence halls, including internet access in each room and air conditioning in the Centennial Complex.

"These are two very visible and very important projects on our campus," Dr. Johnson noted. "Peru State College is moving forward in its efforts to provide quality facilities for students committed to preparing for the future."

Along with the approximately $3.5 million already approved by the Nebraska legislature to renovate W.F. Hoyt Science Hall, Peru State is getting set for a surge in construction and renovation after several years of very limited activity.

Quick payback

The $1.5 million in residence hall improvements will be paid for by the sale of short-term Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs). To be repaid over the next four to five years by student housing and conferencing revenue and improved energy efficiency, the work on various projects is expected to begin in January.

The projects should be done in time for the Fall 2000 semester, according to Erin O'Grady Sayer ('91), Director of Residence Life. The plan is to take one building at a time off-line at the Centennial C6mplex so that at least some of those facilities are ready by next summer for conferences, camps and workshops.

The first burst of activity will involve the Centennial Complex, with replacement of windows and dry-walling and insulation of bare cinder block walls. Wiring for the internetwith multiple outlets rather than just one per room to accommodate more than one computer per room - will take place at about the same time, and will involve Eliza Morgan and W.N. Delzell halls on the main campus, too.

Next will be replacement of the inefficient and outdated radiant heating units at the Complex with efficient heating and cooling units, providing Peru State with long-awaited air conditioned halls. Not only will students enjoy greater comfort during the school year,

this improvement will allow PSC to host more summer conferences than ever.

Convert to apartments

W.R. Pate Hall will be converted from a 26bedroom facility into 12 apartments open only to upperclassmen, Sayer said. Capacity in Pate will be reduced from 48 beds to 28 beds with the addition of a full kitchen in each suite, she noted. The rest of the BAN revenue will be used for re-carpeting and re-painting in various halls.

The Campus Services Building is another multifaceted project that will both upgrade facilities and streamline operations.

· A significant portion of the $1,912,720 cost will be repaid by student tuition income. Architectural work and the letting of bids is the first order of business, with construction expected to begin within the next couple of months. The project will be completed by January or February of 2001.

Some preliminary work already has begun, with the removal of the old.college greenhouse and razing of the Alumni/Foundation Building. Later, the mechanic's garage and an underground storage area that once housed the college coal bin also will be torn down.

Built in '07

The Campus Services building, built in 1907 and little changed since then, will be renovated. An addition will be built to the east to house operations that at present are scattered across campus, such as the auto. mechanic's garage, the carpentry shop, campus security, the mailroom and campus switchboard, and communication services/audio and visual office.

Better and more effective work space, safety issues, energy efficiency, and Americans with Disabilities Act deficiencies also will be addressed through the project.

The practical benefits of all three of these projects (Hoyt, Campus Services, and Residence Halls) to Peru State College is considerable. The psychological impact on the faculty, staff, students and prospective students of such major construction projects may equal or perhaps exceed those practical benefits, Dr. Johnson said.

"This is going to become a very exciting place in the next few years," Dr. Johnson predicted. "These construction projects reflect the optimism and growth PSC is experiencing."

PSC Website May Yield Rewards

Perusing the Peru State College world wide website (www.peru.edu) can be an entertaining and educational experience.

It can also be rewarding in a variety of ways, including by way of the monthly Alumni Trivia Contest.

About the middle of each month we post a new question dealing with the history and heritage of Peru State. It's a multiple-choice question so you have a 25 percent chance of being right even if you

1940s

Charles Henning ('47) of Peru, Neb. was elected commander of the Disabled American Veterans Department of Nebraska in June. He will also continue to serve on the Nebraska Veterans Council and the Inquiry and Review Board.

Marion Iversen ('49) of Fremont, Neb. was honored by the Fremont Public Schools this fall with its "Distinguished Friend of Education Award." She actually first worked for FPS in 1946, and at various times was an elementary teacher and principal, supervisor, and assistant to the superintendent in elementary education. She retired in 1985 but stays involved with the school district as a volunteer.

1950s

Corwin Arndt ('58) of Oshkosh, Neb. retired last spring from Chicago Northwestern/Union Pacific Railroad. He keeps busy as caretaker for four local cemeteries in the Oshkosh area.

Ray Ehlers ('58), who earned a roomful of honors as Athletic Director for the Lexington (Neb.) Public Schools, received perhaps his greatest award this past summer when he was selected as the National Athletic Director of the Year. He received the honor at the National High School Athletic Coaches Association banquet last June in San Diego, Calif. Ehlers spent 29 years serving the Lexington schools after ·teaching and coaching in Fullerto_n and Blair, Neb.

Richard Kumpf ('58) of Auburn, Neb. retired from Casey-Witzenburg Funeral Home this summer. He had been with the funeral home for 13 years. Upon graduating from PSC Richard began teaching at the Cook Community School and taught for a total of 25 years in various Nebraska schools before attending the Dallas Institute of Funeral Sen!ices.

Donna DeRoin Lape ('54) of Falls City, Neb. retired this spring from the _Falls City Public Schools where she had taught for the past 10 years.

Dr. Sharon Ocker ('53) of Sioux City, Iowa has published a history of the Men's Basketball program at Morningside College, where he taught for many years. Dr. Ocker wishes someone who lives in the PSC area would do a similar work on the Bobcat hoop program, saying he'd be happy to "contribute several good stories about Omer Meeker, Tom Hallstrom, Coaches Newt Kyle, Al Wheeler and others."

don't have a clue as to the answer.

From those eligible Peru Staters who correctly answer the question, we then draw one name - and that person wins a prize compliments of the college's Bobcat Bookstore.

Simply go to_ the Peru State website (www.peru.edu), then to the "Alumni & News" section. Click on the "Trivia Contest" tag and you're ready to play.

Good luck. And while you're there, leave a message

for your friends in the Alumni Guestbook - you may be pleasantly surprised at who you hear from!

Ron Paap ('55) of Charleston, Ill. was inducted into the Eastern Illinois University Hall of Fame in September. Ron began his teaching and coaching career at Palmer, Neb. and also taught for six years at Papillion. He began his career at Eastern Illinois in 1963 and retired in 1998 as associate athletic director. During that time he served as a teacher, coach and administrator with a variety of responsibilities. His wife is the former Lila Windle ('55).

Lucile Davis Sharp ('59) has retired from the Nebraska City Public Schools, where she taught at Hayward Elementary.

Del Stoltenberg ('57) has been honored as the Missouri Track Coach of the Year. The former Bobcat gridiron standout now coaches at nearby Rock Port, Mo. and lives in Tarkio. He has been coaching at Rock Port since '91 and his teams have won six state track championships. Actually, the state Track Coach of the Year award is getting to be old hat: Stoltenberg also received the honor in '94, '95, and '96.

(continued on page 9)

1950s (continued)

Marilyn Rhodes Stratton (attd. '56) of Weeping Water, Neb. retired this spring as an elementary teacher at Weeping Water Public School. She began teaching in September of 1956 after attending a PSC summer school session. For the last five years she has been a kindergarten teacher, and taught second grade for 21 years prior to the move to kindergarten. She also taught for 5 1/2 years in rural schools.

Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns proclaimed June 13, 1999 as "Marie Lyon Thornhill ('58) Day" in celebration of her 43year teaching career. She spent much of her career at Harmony School, between Peru and Nebraska City.

Dean Harshbarger

New Challenges for Ted Harshbarger

by Kristi Nies

Ted Harshbarger ('77) is excited - excited about his .new duties at Peru State College, excited about the renewed spirit at the college; excited about the future of PSC.

Harshbarger was named Dean of Student Services at PSC last June. He didn't have far to carry his boxes, though. He had been Director of Cooperative Education and Career Services at PSC since 1992, and has been on staff at the school since December 1989.

And by the way, the Humboldt, Neb. native is also a Peru State College graduate, Class of '77.

"I'm a blue-blooded PSC person," he said.

And his blue blood is boiling with enthusiasm right now for what the next few years hold for the college, and with the part Student Services plays in that future.

Broad spectrum

Student Services encompasses everything from recruiting to financial aid to residence life to tutoring to athletics. It's the whole package that brings a student to campus and keeps them on campus.

"We're here to work with not only the student but the faculty and staff to make (the student) a whole person," Harshbarger said.

That inclusion of faculty and staff is an important part of Harshbarger's philosophy of student services. Everyone

on campus - support staff, part-time employees, facultyplays a role in shaping a student's experience at Peru State College.

And they play a role in keeping that student on campus until graduation.

Customer service

There's an emphasis on looking at students as customers, and Harshbarger refers to much of. what Student Services does as customer service. That includes moves such as making the fee payment process quicker and planning for dormitory renovations. , That theme of customer service also extends to the stud en ts in PSCs off-campus programs, Hatsh\barger said. The of those programs spread through the school's 19-c:ounty service area, he explained, is to be aware of the services those students need and how to provide them. '

And while Peru State has a student body: as diverse as most other schools in the state college and university system, there is a renewed emphasis on maintaining and increasing that diversity. Bringing in a more diverse population means meeting more diverse student needs. Harshbarger wants the college to be ready to meet those needs.

In addition tQ his duties at Peru State, Harshbarger is also the state advisor for Phi Beta Lambda national business hon-

orary. He's a familiar face at PSC athletic events, often seated at the scorer's table, and is known across the region for his work as a high school volleyball official.

Community service

Serving the community is an important part of Harshbarger's life. He attributes that to his parents, who showed him the rewards of working in the community by their own example.

Staying in southeast Nebraska seemed natural to Harshbarger, who began his career in education with a teaching and coaching job in the Tecumseh, Neb. public schools.

He did spend about two years in Colorado as the manager for vocational student organizations in the state. Then the job of Director of Cooperative Education at Peru State was offered to him.

"When given the opportunity to come back to Peru 10 years ago, it seemed like a tough decision - but it really wasn't," he said.

When the Dean of Student Services position opened up, Harshbarger said he saw it as a chance to be able to make an impact not just on students, but on the campus as a whole.

"I was ready for some new challenges," he said.

Harshbarger lives on the family farm near Humboldt. That farm was recently named one of the state's Pioneer Family Farms.

Harry Weichel ('59) retired at the end of August from his post as Assistant Superintendent for the Ralston, Neb. public schools. Weichel recalls that when he began at Ralston in '59 the first graduating class had 25 students; this past year the suburban Omaha school had a senior class of over 200.

Corinne Libal Wilkinson ('54) of Lewiston, Neb. retired this spring after spending over 44 years in the teaching profession. Approximately 28 of those 44 years were spent at the Lewiston Schools. She taught in the elementary grades and also taught Chapter I for 16 years.

1960s

John Barton ('65) has retired from the Nebraska City Public Schools, where he was an American Government teacher.

Douglas Cramer ('68) of Rushville, N. Y. has been inducted into the Canandaigua (N.Y.) Academy Athletic Hall of Fame this past September. He helped found and develop the Finger Lakes Special Olympics, and was a coach for Team USA in the 1.993 Special Olympics Winter World Games.

Dennis Crawford ('64) of Falls City, Neb. retired as teacher and coach this spring. He had completed a second seven year tenure on the faculty at Falls City.

Eleta Eisenhauer ('69) is teaching math, science, social studies, art and health at the Elk Creek (Neb.) School this year.

Paul Horel ('69) is in his sixth year as President of Crop Insurance Research Bureau in Overland Park, Kan. The organization is involved in education, research, and federal affairs. He and his wife the former Yvonne Pfannebecker ('78) have four children.

Bev Leeper Jordan ('64) has retired from the Nebraska City Public Schools, where she taught in the Hayward Elementary School.

Jerry Joy ('64) of Rapid City, S.D. was inducted into the · 1999 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in September. The ceremony took place in Lincoln.

Gail Kopplin ('66) of Gretna, Neb. has retired from his position as Superintendent of the Gretna (Neb.) Public Schools. Kopplin, who worked his way through Peru State by teaching with a one-year certificate earned in '57, has. been widely hailed for his leadership efforts with the Gretna schools which he served for 37 years. Kopplin and his wife Mary Lou were honored as Gretna's "Citizens of the Year" for 1999, too.

(continued on page 10)

Ted L. Harshbarger ( '77) has enjoyed the challenges of his first months as Dean of Student Services at his alma mater. He's pictured here with Julie Bixler (center), President of the PSC Student Senate, and with Erin O'Grady Sayer ('91 ), Director of Residence Life, discussing upcoming construction projects on the PSC Campus. (Photo by Kristi Nies)

1960s (continued)

Jere ('60) and Jan Lillethorup ('60) Krakow of Salt Lake City, Utah paid a visit to their alma mater in late July. Jere is superintendent of the Long Distance Trails office of the National Park Service in Salt Lake City.

Larry Marcusson ('69) is the new Superintendent at the Clay Center (Neb.) Public Schools.

Carol Mehlin Nanninga ('67) of Humboldt, Neb. retired from the music classroom at the Humboldt Public Schools this spring. She was the elementary music teacher at Humboldt for the past several years.

Barbara Ogle Persinger ('67) of Grand Island, Neb. retired this spring after teaching for a total of 38 years. She began her teaching career in rural schools near Humboldt, Neb. and completed her career with 24 years at Jefferson Elementary at Grand Island.

PSC Welcomes You (Back)

Drs. Jerrold Hanson (left) and Wayne Davidson (right) found themselves back at work on the PSC campus this fall, rather than enjoying their retirements. Both agreed to return on an interim basis while the college conducted searches for an Education Division Chair and an Athletics Director, respectively.

·Retirements on Hold, Duo Returns to Assist Peru State

by Kristi Nies

This time of year, you'd normally find Dr. Wayne Davidson managing the golf course in Tarkio, Mo., and getting ready to head to Florida for the winter.

This time of year, you'd normally find Dr. Jerry Hanson at his custom-built home in the Colorado Rockies or traveling with his wife, DeAnn.

This year, you'll find both of them back at Peru State College.

"We are especially fortunate to have these two old friends of Peru State College back with us again, assisting us at a time of great activity and progress," said Dr. Ben Johnson, PSC's President.

Dr. Davidson began his early phase-out retirement from PSC in 1996, after serving 17 years in the Athletic Department, teaching and coaching. Dr. Hanson retired in 1995 after seven years at the school, his first six as chairman of the Education Division.

Fateful calls

Then came the fateful phone calls.

The search for a new chair for Peru State's Education Division was not bearing fruit,

Dr. Hanson was told, and there would be no one in place by the start of the 1999-2000 academic year. Would he consider coming back to Peru State and serving as interim chair of the Education Division?

"I chuckled," Dr. Hanson said of his reaction at the time.

"I'm perfectly happy (as a retiree). Why should I do this?"

He talked about the proposal with his wife, then called the school and said he'd be willing to do it if they could reach a satisfactory agreement.

"Then I forgot about it," he said, and he and his wife left their home in Ohio City, Colo., for a month in the Rio Grande Valley.

Not forgotten

Peru State College hadn't forgotten about it. Dr. Hanson checked his messages one day while travelling, and there was a call from the college.

And now here he is.

While serving as Education Division chairman in the late 1980's and early 1990's, he guided the division through its state accreditation process, and also had seen the division receive approval from the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE).

Dr. Hanson said he'd felt "some ownership of all that" and that feeling influenced his decision to return in an interim capacity. The division is again preparing for an NCATE approval visit, set for the spring of 2001.

He also just plain likes the place.

"There are good people here, and good faculty. If I can help them out, I will," he said.

Dr. Davidson's response to the fateful phone call from Peru State College was immediate.

School in need

Tara Kreklau had resigned her position as the college's Athletic Director just before the start of the 1999-2000 school term, and the school needed an interim AD while a search for a full-time replacement was mounted. Would he consider returning for a few months as interim Athletic Director?

"I really wanted to do this," Dr. Davidson said of his initial response. "The athletic program for the last seven years had really been dismantled, and this was a chance to put it back together." ·

(Continued on Page 11)

Charles P. Richards ('66) of Denver, Colo. has retired from the Community College of Denver, where he was Professor of English. He served the college for the last 23 years, and before that served in the Omaha Public Schools.

Steve Roberts ('64) has been appointed the new Chief of Police in Red Oak, Iowa. Roberts is a 24-year veteran of the department.

James ('62) and Marian Charles P. Richards Weber ('63) Thompson of Highland, Kan. celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a Hawaiian cruise on the S.S. Independence ocean liner. They are both retired school teachers.

Roger Witt ('62) retired from the Falls City Public Schools this spring. He had served as the elementary principal for the past six years.

Russel Workman ('63) has ended his 37-year music teaching career with his retirement from the Wilber-Clatonia (Neb.) Public Schools. He won countless awards during his career which took him to eight schools in Nebraska and one in Colorado.

1980s

Duane Arntt ('87) is the new elementary school principal for the Wymore (Neb.) Southern Public Schools.

Susan Richardson Bassinger ('83) is teaching elementary special education and computer education at the Johnson-Brock schools. Susan began her teaching career in Keya Paha County, and has also taught in the rural schools in Otoe County and as a substitute teacher. She was a teacher's aide at Nemaha Valley Schools prior to joining JohnsonBrock.

Carol Walker Bills ('84) and husband Jerry of Elkhorn, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Heather Elaine, born in July.

(continued on page 11)

(Photo by Kristi Nies)

Just 15 Lost from '79

The Class of 1979 has one of the smallest "lost alumni" rosters of any of Peru State College's We'd like to shorten it even more.

If you're able to provide us with a current home address for any of these Peruvians, we' 11 get them back on the Peru Stater mailing list.

Send any and all current, home addresses to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or via e-mail at propst@bobcat.peru.edu, or phone (402) 872-2225.

Clogston, Chester

Cole, Anita F.

Guerra, Lisa L. (Lloyd)

Henn, Tom

Higgins, Sue C.

Howlett, Francis T.

Howlett, Susan M. (Dempster)

Johnson, Willie L.

Jones, Thomas L.

Mahoney,, Cynthia A. (Smith)

North, Patrice

Rieschick, Lucinda A.

Sundeen, Thomas E.

Walter, Randy L.

Windle, Mary L.

Golden Anniversary Nears, But Class of '50 Has 'Lost'

The PSC Class of 1950 had a lot going for it, and a half century later it still does.

One of the things we'd like to change about the Class of '50 is the number of "lost alumni" on its roster. And we'd like to do it quick so these folks get invited back to campus next spring for their 50-year Reunion.

If you can provide Peru State with the whereabouts of any of the following, please forward the current home addresses to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. _Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or e-mail him at pi:opst@bobcat.peru.edu, or call him at (402) 872-2225.

Bloss, Phyllis J. (Urbauer) Brier, William Joseph Chrisman, Rogene Comstock, Devee (Reber) Ehlers, Fred Frerichs, LaVonna Glynn, Helen Grace, Maude (Fulton) Greger, Leadonna Heil, Corrine D. (Wiles) Herridge, Delores (Bobbitt)

Hesler, Jam es J. Howard, Harold E. Hughes, Louis K. Kroese, Mary C. (Meisinger) Little, Dorothy Marten, Babette (Kempton) Metzger, Ellyn (Becker) Michaelson, Robert E. Rhodes, Anna M. (Friedly) Ross, Jo Anne Russell, Jean B. Scheifelbein, Roy E. Schwab, Charlene (Patterson) Stillaha, Marlene (Flory) Vice, Gertrude Waddle, Jim Walker, Iola F. Wiszmann, Artis D. (Haswell) Wolford, Kenneth P. Wolkforth, Marilou (Warner) Yocum, Don

1980s (continued)

Billie Kay Bodie ('84) of Burchard, Neb. completed the 1999 Agricultural Lending School in Kearney, Neb. this summer. She is vice president and cashier at The First National Bank in Summerfield, Kan.

Bill Bruhn ('81) of Beatrice, Neb. was coach for the Lewiston girls track team. They were the Class D State runner-up in track and field events at the State Track Meet this spring. Bill also coached the Southeast Nebraska All-Star boys basketball game held in Beatrice in June.

Colleen Chapman ('85) has assumed the coaching duties for the Nemaha Valley Cardinals volleyball team. Colleen previously taught and coached for 14 years at Callaway, Neb. where she coached some very successful teams. Colleen teaches business and is FBLA sponsor, too.

Paul Crawford ('84) has accepted a teaching position in medieval history at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

Ardella Crawford ('84) is teaching English at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley during the Fall 1999 semester.

Doug Duis ('89) and wife Dawn of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Danielle Whitney, born in August.

Marilyn Bohling Ellingson ('88) and husband Jon of Gretna, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Joshua Jon Richard, born in May. He was welcomed home by two brothers, Justin and Jacob.

April Assembly An Omaha Tradition

The Omaha-Area Alumni Chapter always seems to outdo itself, but topping the reunion last spring will be a formidable challenge.

After all, having Nebraska Gov. Mike Johanns on hand, and conducting a fundraiser that brought in excess of $3,000 for the chapter, is a tough act to follow.

But officers and organizers will give it their best shot on Thursday, April 20 when the Year 2000 Reunion is held at the German-American Society Club (120th and I Streets in Omaha).

Retirements on Hold

He agreed to come back to the college for four months, while the search for a full-time AD is being conducted. He expected an announcement about a new AD to be made before he leaves at the end of November;

He was to be in Florida by December 1 to help officiate at a PGA tournament. Golf and other physical activities, such as swimming and walking, are the focus of his retirement years. He's a very fit and trim 65 years old.

Golf & hoops

In his work with the PGA, he's walked courses with golfers such as Jack Nicklaus,

If you live in Omaha or the surrounding area and haven't been to one of these events; don't you think it's about time you give it a try? And if you're a regular, you know what to expect from Peru State College's largest alumni chapter.

For more information contact any of these officers: Myrt ('47) and Dee ('42) Hall, 9212 California Pl., Omaha Neb. 68114; Monte ('63) and Judy ('62) Allgood, 16106 Ontario Circle, Omaha Neb. 68130; or Sara Donovan ('85), 14012 Olive Circle, Omaha Neb. 68138.

.................

Steve Pate, Davis Love III and Tiger Woods. He thinks of golf as a "gentlemen's sport"though in a gender-neutral fashion. He is, after all, the winningest women's basketball coach in Peru State College history.

"It's (golf) a game of courtesy and honor," Dr. Davidson said.

Like Dr. Hanson, he, too, just plain likes the place.

"I spent 17 years here," Dr. Davidson said. "I will always have a strong desire to see things go well for Peru State College."

In fact, he so much likes what he's doing that he's toyed

From Page 10

with the notion of staying around.

"I've been very happy," he said. "If I were a few years younger, I'd stay longer."

Neither Dr. Hanson nor Dr. Davidson regrets the decision they made when Peru State College pressed them back into service.

In fact, when both were asked if their decision to return was the right one, they both answered in the exact same way.

"Oh, yes."

PSC students, faculty and staff couldn't have said it better themselves.

Rhonda Hunt Epp ('84) of Blue Springs, Neb is teaching fourth grade at the Wymore Southern Schools.

Artis Plager Fisher ('87) and husband Danny are proud parents of a daughter, Alisha Danyell Kay, born in August.

Jack ('87) and Mary Neels ('84) Frary have left southeast Nebraska for a new home at Sutherland, Neb. Jack is a chemistry technician for the Nebraska Public Power District's Gentleman Station and has been with NPPD for nine years. Mary ended her 17-year association with UPS delivery service and is a "full-time, stay-at-home mom." They are expecting their sixth child this winter.

Pam Gerweck Frost (attd. '78-'80, '81-'82 and '87-'88) of Falls City, Neb. was promoted to Marketing Director at the Richardson County Bank and· Trust at Falls City. She has been employed at the bank since 1991, and will continue as Customer Service Representative. Pam is active in many community affairs.

Harold Groves ('88) is teaching junior and senior high industrial technology and coaching girls basketball and · junior high football for the West Monona County (Iowa) schools. ·

Deanna Stukenholtz Haverty ('82) of Nebraska City, Neb. is the third grade teacher at the Conestoga Public Schools near Murray, Neb.

Curtis ('88) and Kelly Witecki ('89) Hiatt of Omaha are proud parents of their third child, son Eric Mitchell, born last March. He was welcomed home by big brother Gary and big sister Lauren.

(continued on page 14)

Their Majesties

Queen Mother

Peru State· Homecoming '99 in Review

From Kings to Queen Mothers and a blowout football victory, Peru State College supporters Celebrated the during Homecoming '99 on Oct. 2.

With Celebrate the Century as the Homecoming theme, there were many looks back into history that day, especially during the Homecoming Parade. Two who will look back upon Homecoming '99 with special fondness will be· seniors Lance Kurz of Palmer,

Pre-Parade

Neb. and Brandi Buck of Murdock, Neb. who were crowned Homecoming King and Queen.

So will Ruby Douglas of Peru. The soon-to-retire and longtime campus cafeteria worker, who celebrated her 90th birthday in November, was surprised just before the parade to learn she had been named PSC's first-ever "Homecoming Queen Mother" by President Ben E. Johnson.

Mrs. Jo Davis of Nebraska City

presided as Grand Marshal over Homecoming events, riding in retired PSC Professor Everett Browning's classic Model T convertible during the parade.

An alumni group representing PSC's Northern California and Rocky Mountain chapters built the third place float.

For many, one of the biggest highlights was the Peru State Bobcat football team's 49-14 thumping' of

Panhandle (Okla.) State University in the Homecoming football game.

Other activities during the busy day included a Homecoming Hike on the new Steamboat Trace Trail, the Alumni vs. Varsity men's basketball game, the Homecoming Play, and the annual Homecoming Dance.

PSC officials have set the date for the next Homecoming, Saturday Oct. 21, 2000.

Celebrating in Style

Seniors Lance Kurz and Brandi Buck reigned as the '99 King & Queen.

Ruby Furnas Douglas was designated PSC's first-ever "Homecoming Queen Mother" during the October celebration. Ruby, a PSC cafeteria worker, is set to retire in December - at the tender age of 90.

With "Celebrate the Century" as the '99 Homecoming theme, some of the students paraded in style.

Lisa Parriott (left) of PSC:> support staff visits with Music Professor Dr. Thomas Ediger and '99 Homecoming Grand Marshal Josephine Davis (right) during the reception just prior to the Homecoming parade.

Three 'Cats, One Group Enshrined ln Hall of Fame

Peru State's 1999 Hall of Fame class included two former standout athletes, a long-time coach and athletic administrator, and one special group of former student-athletes.

Former Bobcat football star Ken Clark ('58), women's basketball great Connie Viner Blank ('89), former football coach and athletic director Jerry Joy ('64), and the 1943-45 era Navy V-5 and V-12 program studentathletes joined the Hall of Fame during festivities held Sept. 3-4.

A crowd of nearly 200 filled the PSC Student Center for Friday evening's Hall of Fame banquet, when President Ben E. Johnson presented certificates to each inductee. Interim Athletic

Director Dr. Wayne Davidson served as Master of Ceremonies.

The three individuals and the Navy group were formally inducted on Saturday (Sept. 4) at halftime of the PSC vs. Doane football game.

Brief biographies of the three individuals follow. For more information about the Navy group, see the related story.

Connie Viner Blank

Perhaps no other women's basketball star to date has made the kind of impact on the Bobcat program that Connie Viner Blank of Emerson, Iowa made.

Connie's 1,589 points and 339 assists are both second on the Bobcat all-time

chart. Tenacious and hard-working, she played on some of Coach Wayne Davidson's best Bobcat squads.

She was equally outstanding in the classroom, earning Academic AllAmerican honors.

Ken Clark

The rugged fullback on a string of unbeaten PSC squads in the early 1950s, Ken Clark was a four-year letterman for Coach Al Wheeler.

A retired teacher and coach, Clark was a three-time all-conference selection and registered PSC's first recorded 200-yard rushing game, against Doane in 1953.

Clark was Peru State's first NAIA

All-American football player. The Nemaha County native now lives in Nebraska City.

Jerry Joy

Jerry Joy returned to his alma mater in 1975 to take over a once-proud football program that had won just 29 ·games in the previous 13 seasons.

He is credited with returning the program to respectability and national acclaim. He posted a 40-36-2 mark in eight seasons and led the '79 squad· to Peru's first post-season appearance in 25 years.

Joy is now the Chief Operating Officer for National American University in Rapid City, S.D.

PSC's Contribution to Victory In The Second World War: The V-5 and V-12 Programs

By Dr. Dan Johnson Executive Director PSC Foundation

As America's role in World War II went into full swing in

Inducted

1942, the Navy and Marine Corps needed tens of thousands of officers to man the ships, fly the planes and command the troops.

To ensure a constant supply of well-trained, intelligent officers, the Navy initiated a training program at 131 colleges and universities across the nation. All told, 125,000 young men were enrolled in the program.

The V-5 component was for aviation cadets while the V-12 portion trained naval line offi_. cers.

In 1943 when 175 V-12s arrived on The Campus of A Thousand Oaks, the Peru student body, which consisted mostly of Nebraskans, was instantly diversified. Seventyseven of the men were from the West Coast, and seventeen members of the football squad were from Los Angeles.

Typical of the warm welcome accorded the V-12s was an air-campus reception given in their .honor four days after they arrived. All members of the faculty were there, and the presence of the coeds ensured a successful evening, which concluded with a dance. The Peru Pedagogian ·reported weekly on the school's activities,

which included many dances with music furnished by the Solid Macs, the Navy swing band.

The V-12s provided most of the football and basketball manpower. The Bobcats played full schedules against tough opposition. Intramurals were also prominent in V-12 life. The Peru V-12s achieved recognition in 1943 for the best average strength score of any unit in the Ninth Naval District.

The men were quartered in Delzell Hall, which was called "the ship." The mess hall was dubbed "Steiner's Diner" in honor of the cafeteria manager.

On New Year's Eve of 1943 the entire crew '.'mutinied" and celebrated the coming of the New Year in a fashion that brought ten days of restriction.

This fall PSC honored its V5 and V-12 athletes by inducting all of them into the College's Hall of Fame. The ceremonies began on Friday evening, September 3 with a gala . banquet during which President Ben Johnson award-

ed each Navy man present a certificate.

On the next day, before PSC's football game with Doane College, President Johnson dedicated a memorial plaque to the V-5 and V-12 athletes. The plaque is mounted on a brick pedestal along a path leading to the Oak Bowl.

During half time ceremonies President Johnson presented each Naval athlete with a medallion recognizing his contribution to Peru State College athletics.

The V-5 and V-12 athletes, spouses and guests in attendance were: Chuck and Lynn Martin of New Bern, NC, Rudy and Mary Jacuzzi of Lafayette, CA, Jack and Charlotte Mast of Zamora, CA, Jim and Janet Thornton and Sheila Osgood from Pensacola,. FL, Densel and Irene Fankhauser of Tecumseh, NE, Rex and Hope Floyd of Fairfield, CA, Leo and Betty Gamble of Manteca, CA, Harold and Bette· Jenkins of Kansas City, MO, John and

(Continued on Page 14)

Connie Viner-Blank with Dr. Wayne Davidson

Ken Clark

Jerry Joy

Jim Thornton, who was inducted into the Navy over 50 years ago and assigned to the Navy officer training program at Peru State, came back in September for another induction. This time he was one of the Navy group inducted into the PSC Hall of Fame. (Photo by Elizabeth

Salute to the Navy

·

The Navy V-5/V-12 contingent at Peru State's Hall of Fame celebration in September was a strong one. Among those returning from across the U.S. were (front r.ow from left) Jack Mast, John Leavitt, Rudy Jacuzzi, Bob Webber and Pat Rooney, and (back row from left) Leo Gamble, Jack Slaven, Jack Staples, Richard Mastain, Bob Widmark, Chuck Martin, Richard Hanson, Orlen Rice, Don Owen, Vince Petrucci, and Ken Boxley. Not pictured are Dense[ Fankhauser, Harold Jenkins, Mrs. Mark (Patricia Carmine) Russell and Jim Thornton.

V-5 and V-12 Programs

Vicky Leavitt of San Jose, CA, Dick and Mary Mastain of Ashland, OR, Don and Christine Owen of Wichita Falls, TX, Orlen and Caroline Rice of Minneapolis, MN, Dr. Pat Rooney and Kathy Crivello of Ventura, CA, Pat Carmine Russell (Mark's widow) of Broken Bow, NE and Dr. John Russell of Beatrice, NE, John and Joan

...............

Slaven of Woodland, CA, Jack and Diana Staples of Rocklin, CA, Bob and Iris Widmark of Scottsdale, AZ, Richard Hanson of Mission Viejo, CA, Vince Petrucci of Fresno, CA, Bob Webber of Bellevue, WA, and Ken Boxley of Beverly Hills, CA.

Historical information about the :t'!aval V-5 and V-12 program is taken from Jam es G.

Oak Bowl Memorial

1980s (continued)

Alvin Holder ('82) of Tampa, Fl. was inducted into the 1999 Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in September. Al was an outstanding running back during his college career at PSC.

Mark Hrabik ('82) has reGeived the Nebraska Coaches Assocation Level I Career Milestone Award. The boys basketball coach for Syracuse, Neb. qualified by having led his squads to 100 wins in team sports.

Jim Krohn ('89) is now the director of technology and information services for the Dodge City, Kan. public schools. His wife the former Nancy Viele Krohn ('83-'86) is bookkeeping for Fidelity State Bank in Dodge City.

Former Bobcat track standout Shari Paczosa Kucera ('85) of Omaha continues to excel in that sport. This past summer she won, for the fourth straight time, a 2.1 mile race in the Columbus (Neb.) "Downtown Runaround." Shari is Director of Strategic Development for First Data in Omaha.

Loren Lintner ('80) is teaching marketing and physical education in Underwood, Iowa where he is assistant football coach and head golf coach. He had been teaching in the Papillion-LaVista (Neb.) Schools.

From Page 13

Schneider's book The Navy V12 Program: Leadership For A Lifetime, published by the Houghton Mifflin Company, in 1987.

Profiles of two of PSC's V-5 and V-12 athletes appear in this edition of The Peru Stater. In future issues profiles of other V-5 and V-12 Hall of Fame members will be presented.

Nancy McKibbin (masters '88) of Peru, Neb. was selected to participate in the Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program in Japan this fall. She was one of 200 educators selected from over 2,500 applicants who spent three weeks studying in Japan.

Cheryl Urwin Monte de Rainos ('85) of Newport News, Va. is now a budget analyst for the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) at historic Ft. Monroe in Virginia. TRADOC is responsible for the training of all new and existing U.S. Army soldiers. "I actually work in a building inside of a moat right on the Chesapeake Bay," she writes.

Keith Mullins ('81) of Waterbury, Vt. has been elected President of the Vermont Driver and Traffic Safety Education Association. Aligning the group's curriculum with new Vermont education standards, and working for passage of a bill to get graduated licensing established in the state, are the two chief items on the group's agenda.

Bob Parsley ('80) is back teaching eighth to twelfth grade math for the Rising City (Neb.) public schools. He had been on a two-year sabbatical from his teaching duties there.

Leslie Dyer Penney ('89) is the new owner of the Jazzercise businesses in Nebraska City and in Sidney, Iowa. She has been a certified Jazzercise instructor since 1996. Leslie teaches physical education at Hayward School and at Nebraska City High School, too.

John Rainbolt ('89) is the new executive director of Beverly Healthcare in Fullerton, Neb. He has 18 years' experience working in nursing homes.

Laurie Graham Schulte ('83) of Auburn, Neb. is teaching music at the three elementary schools in the Auburn school system. She was previously a second grade teacher in the Peru facility.

Lori Vrtiska Seibel ('84) of Lincoln, Neb. is the new Executive Director of the Community Health Endowment of Lincoln. The Endowment was created from the sale of one of Lincoln's hospitals in 1997, and it has nearly $50 million in assets. The organization is dedicated to efforts to improve community health services in Lincoln.

(continued on page 15)

(Photo by Kent Propst)

Peru State's World War ll-era Navy officer training program was permanently memorialized in two ways this fall. First, the participants were inducted en masse into PSC's Hall of Fame. And secondly, a bronze plaque was dedicated in the Oak Bowl memorializing the program.

(Photo by Kent Propst)

Peru State Expands Opportunity and Recognition

Peru State College has expanded scholarship offerings for the 2000-2001 school year and is encouraging interested students to apply early, according to Robert Lopez, PSC's new Director Of Enrollment Management.

All high school seniors and students considering transferring from another college for the Fall 2000 semester are encouraged to apply for scholarships, Lopez said. Alumni also are encouraged to refer students to the college Office of Admissions.

As costs rise, scholarships have become an increasingly important part of funding a college education - even at institutions such as Peru State with costs well below national averages.

During the past year, Peru State officials made a commitment to substantially increase the amount of scholarship dollars - both in terms of the number of students who would receive scholarships, and in

the length of the award (in other words, making many of the scholarships renewable to continuing students).

"Peru State College wants to be in a position to assist as many students as possible, while also rewarding students for their academic achievement," said PSC President Ben E. Johnson.

It's never too early to begin looking for scholarship dollars, Lopez added. Interested seniors are encouraged to:

*Complete the PSC Application for Admission early; only those students who have applied for admission will be sent scholarship application forms and be considered for scholarships.

*Apply for scholarships early. Even with the new scholarship dollars, those funds are limited and once they are awarded, the opportunity is gone.

*Take the ACT (preferred) or SAT test during the fall semester, _and have those

1980s (continued)

Linnette Small ('88) of Horton, Kan. updated us with an address on a previously "lost" alum and updated us on herself as well. The former "non-traditional aged" student became a great-grandmother this past summer. Her son and classmate Mark Small ('88) lives and works in Manhattan, Kan. and officiates high school football and basketball games.

Margaret Spiers ('86) of Nebraska City has founded Inspirations Bridal Services in that community. She serves as a bridal consultant.

Kim Mehlin Standerford ('89) and husband Joe of Humboldt, Neb. are proud parents of a <laugher, Logan Joy, born in July. She was welcomed home by sisters Jessi and Cortny, and brother TJ.

Bob Lopez

scores forwarded to Peru State. *Do a great job in the completion of scholarship application materials. This does make a difference when the Scholarship Committee reviews competing appiications!

(Continued on Page 18)

Holtz Performs at Kennedy Center

In all probability, not many college English professors will ever be invited to take the stage at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Dr. Dan'Holtz of Peru State College is an exception.

Dr. Holtz presented his "Nebraska Through Song & Story" program at the Kennedy Center in July. He termed it both an honor and a thrill to be invited as Nebraska's representative as part of the Center's State Days Series, Holtz said.

Growing up in Ord, Neb., Holtz never dreamed he'd be at the Kennedy Center. He wanted to be a rock star instead.

"I played from about age 15 through the start of my teaching career," he explained. "We played clubs, wedding dances, things like that. As a kid you .always think that maybe you'll do something noteworthy."

His "Nebraska Through Song & Story" program combines three of Holtz's favorite things: music, Nebraska history, and Nebraska literature.

"I just like the idea of tying together those elements," Holtz said. "You get a sense of history out of reading (Mari) Sandoz or (Willa) Cather, but a song can give a different spin on things.

"The program involves trying to recreate the feeling of history, to let people know what Nebraska was like in earlier days," he added.

The program has been a popular one since he began taking it on the road over two years ago. Holtz estimates he averages two performances a month, at venues all across Nebraska and in front of all types of audiences. He credits a pair of noted Nebraskans, Dr. Robert Manley and

Dr. Dan Holtz

Roger Welsch, for having provided him with the impetus to create "Nebraska Through Song & Story."

Holtz's goal with his program, as one would expect of a professional educator, is to teach as well as to entertain. With his invitation to appear at the Kennedy Center, Holtz had the opportunity of a lifetime to reach a new set of "students."

Paul Stanosheck ('88) and wife Michelle are proud parents of a daughter, Sarah Elizabeth, born in June. They live in Beatrice, Neb.

Kevin Sterner ('80) of Cave Creek, Ariz. is now the westem regional manager for produce for Del Monte Foods. His wife the former Carmen Gerstenschlager {'80) continues to teach fifth grade.

Craig Stevens {'88) was named the_ head women's basketball coach at Morningside College in' Sioux City, Iowa this summer. Craig has been an assistant coach at Morningsideboth women's and men's basketball. Craig has also coached at Nebraska Wesleyan and Mid Plains Community College in North Platte, Neb.

Don Strecker {'86) and wife Kay of Columbus, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Mathew Joseph, born in September. He was welcomed home by a brother, Adam.

Don Urbanovsky {'86) and wife Patsy are proud parents of a daughter born in June. They live in Lincoln, Neb.

Scott Vanderveen {'88) has merged his Certified Public Accounting firm in Nebraska City to form Vanderveen & Goracke LLC. The business also maintains an office in Plattsmouth, Neb.

Mark {'87) and Pam Reid ('88) Williams of Auburn, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Brooke Taylor, born in September. She was welcomed home by a brother, Blake. Pam is employed by PSC and Mark is a state trooper.

Neil Wolfe {'84) of Gilbert, Ariz. and his wife Jo are proud parents of twin sons Jake Robert and Jarrett Donald, born in October. ·They join two sisters at home.

Brent Yaw {'88) and wife Theresa are proud parents of a son, Jackson Craig, born in April. He was welcomed the their Kearney, Neb. home by sisters, Cicely and Dilly.

1990s

Victoria Anderson {'97) of Weeping Water, Neb. is teaching fourth grade in the Weeping Water Schools.

David T. Baldwin ('98) is a white blood cell technician for Streck Laboratories, Inc. and lives in Ralston, Neb.

James ('90) and Stacy Montgomery ('90) Berringer are proud parents of a son, Dakota Laken, born in August. He was welcomed to their Lincoln, Neb. home by a sister and brother, Jaraka and Skyler.

(continued on page 16)

Peru Staters Welcome On Tour to Ireland

A late spring tour of the emerald isle and London is being planned by Peru State College's Continuing Education division, and they want everyone to know that alums are welcome to join in.

Dr. Charles Harper, Professor of Speech and Theatre, will lead the "Exploring the Irish and English Artistic Expression" tour next May 24June 7. Dr. Harper has led similar, success fol tours in the past.

The tour is scheduled to depart from Kansas ·City on May 24 for the overnight flight to Shannon, Ireland. Participants will spend seven full days in Ireland.

A few of the Irish highlights will include the sites in and around Limerick, Killarney, the Rings of Kerry, 2,000-year-old Staigue Fort, Blarney Castle, Waterford, Dublin, a production

at the Abbey Theatre, and much more.

The group also will travel by ferry to England for sightseeing, shopping, tours of London, Bath, Oxford, and more.

The tour price is $2,590 per person, sub-

ject to change. It includes round trip air, departure/arrival taxes, land transportation, many meals, entrance fees, lodging and more. Anyone wanting to take the tour for college credit will be required to pay additional tuition and fee expenses.

For more information or a brochure contact Dr. Harper at (402) 872-2238 weekdays.

1990s (continued)

David Bohling ('92) and wife Kelli of Johnson, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Benjamin David, born in September. He was welcomed home by a sister, Erin.

Joel ('92) and Natalie Kearns ('93) Bohlken of Nebraska City are proud parents of a daughter, Stacy Rose, born in July. She was welcomed home by a sister and brother.

Luke Boldt ('98) is teaching at the middle school in Auburn, Neb.

Tim Bowen ('93) and wife Lisa of Thurston, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Kailey Marie, born in June. She was welcomed home by a sister Brooke.

Todd Brauch ('90) and wife Lisa of Lincoln, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Justin Thomas, born in May.

JBecky Huppert Brewer ('91) and husband Mark of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Sydney Margaret, born in June.

Amy Krejci Baisley (attd. '93-'96) and Eric Hansen were to be married in November in Beatrice, Neb.

Carrie Barbaglia ('96) and Christopher Brunsvold were married last May in Columbus, Neb. Carrie works at Washington Trust Bank in Spokane, Wash.

Toni Bates ('91) and Michael Lootens were married in August. Toni works in software support at Modern Banking Systems in Omaha.

Branden Bender ('95) and Tesha Applebee were married in August in Nebraska City. Branden is a representative for the Principal Financial Group in Nebraska City. •

Robbin Broz ('88) and Colby Hergott were married in July in DeWitt, Neb. Robbin is an elementary school teacher in Humphrey, Neb.

PSC student Angela Dawn Burger of Dunbar, Neb. and Terry L. Bassinger were married in June. Angie is studying elementary and early childhood education at PSC.

Richard J. Carlson ('96) and Kristi Witherspoon were married in August in Aurora, Neb. He is assistant manager of Sun Mart in Hastings, Neb.

PSC graduate student Nikki Circo and Adam Kirshenbaum were married in August in Omaha. She teaches in the Omaha schools.

Michelle Coates ('93) of Beatrice, Neb. and Jeffrey Chenoweth were married in September. Michelle is employed as an insurance associate for Ed Easley State Farm Insurance. ··

Patricia Collins ('76) and David Gulseth were married in April in Fremont, Neb. "P.C." works for Pfizer Pharmaceutical Sales in Overland Park, Kan.

Crystal K. Craven ('97) and Jam es D. Gerdes ('99) of Nebraska City were married in August.

Genelle Czirr ('99) and Gary Wissing were married in September in Superior, Neb. They live in Hastings, Neb. where she works for the Spouse Abuse/Sexual Assault Crisis Center as a victim advocate.

Jason Deisley ('97) and Becki Wetjen ('96) were married last June in Madison, Neb. Becki, who has a masters from the University of NebraskaOmaha, works for NHSClarkson Hospital in Omaha; Jason is employed at Cornhusker Tile in Lincoln.

Andrew Donovan ('93) of New York, N.Y. and Alexandra Wijkman were married in June on the island of Mallorca, Spain. They are living and working in New York Ciry.

Diane L. Durman ('98) and John Motto were married recently. They reside in Auburn, Neb.

Jamie Flaugh ('95) and

Angela Gastro were married in July in South Sioux City, Neb. Jamie is an accounting supervisor at IBP Inc. in South Dakota.

Mike Frederick ('89) of Rulo, Neb. and Cherie Hahn were married in June.

Genelle Grossman ('87) and William Busch were married in July in Roswell, Ga. Genelle is a molecular biologist at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta.

Jaime Hahn ('98) and Jason Langley were married in September. They live in Fallbrook, Calif. and Jaime works for California Federal.

Jeff Henzel (attd. '89-'92) and Brenda Gall were married in June in Llncoln, Neb. Jeff works at Goodyear Tire & Rubber in Lincoln.

Scott Hoefs ('89) and Julie Ann Sellhorst were married in September in Dodge, Neb. Scott works for Arps Red-EMix in Blair. ·

Kara Jenkins ('97) of Lincoln, Neb; and Frank Savage were married in July. Kara is a second grade teacher at Norris Elementary• School in Firth, Neb.

PSC student Brian Johnson and Nicole Bonsall were married in September in Oakland, Neb.

Bob Kula ('98) and Abigail Rogers were married in August in Omaha. Bob is attending graduate school at Texas A&M.

(Continued on Page 17)

Jason ('92) and Nancy Overbeck ('90) Brewer of Gretna, Neb. are proud parents of son, Devin Alan, born in July.

Rebecca Bstandig ('99) is teaching music at the DawsonVerdon Schools in Dawson, Neb.

Amanda Cave ('99) is the new special projects manager for Triangle Pacific Corp. in Auburn, Neb.

Chris Cerveny ('98) continues his employment with the Nebraska Public Power District at its plant near Hallam, Neb.

Tana Chandler (attd. '95-'97) of Stella, Neb. graduated from Clarkson College in Omaha with an Associate of Science degree in Physical Therapy. She is employed as an assistant physical therapist at the Johnson County Hospital in Tecumseh, Neb.

Barry Chilton ('98) is an installation coordinator for Sensormatic Electronics Corp. of Omaha.

Lance Cohn ('98) is the membership director and office manager of the YMCA in Grand Neb.

Janet Lyons Cook ('93) is the new general education secretary for Central Community College's campus in Hastings, Neb. She had been activities director at Friendship Villa in Spalding, Neb. and did accounting work for South Central Behavioral Services.

Beth Cordry-Hookstra ('96) of Beatrice, Neb. is teaching special education at the Beatrice High School. She previously taught at the Martin Luther Home in Beatrice in a selfcontained multi-handicapped classroom.

Jon Critser ('99) is teaching industrial technology at Wymore (Neb.) Southern High School.

Todd Crownover ('92) and wife Candy of Tyndall, S.D. are proud parents of a son, Kaleb Robert, born in May. He was welcomed home by a brother, Lucas.

Jeffrey Dean ('99) is now a loan officer trainee for the Farmers Bank of Cook, Neb.

(continued on page 17)

Developer Aims to Aid Growth

by Kristi Nies

The future of Peru State College and the future of southeast Nebraska are one and the same, and Dr. Ken Lemke plans for both to be filled with growth and prosperity.

Lemke joined the staff of Peru State in mid-October as the new Director of Regional Development. He brings a wealth of experience including recently with the state Department of Economic Development and with Data Transmission Network (DTN) in Omaha.

"We are especially fortunate to have someone with Dr. Lemke's education, experience and interest in regional development join the Peru State College family," noted PSC President Ben E. Johnson.

Southeast Nebraska is looking for ways to navigate the challenges of an economy that is humming along across the nation but has left some sectors behind, especially agricultm:e.

Diversifying and providing potential employers with a skilled labor force will· be the key, Lemke explained.

"We need to manage the change," he said.

force is a chief task for the education institutions in southeast Nebraska, including the community colleges, the state universities in Lincoln ana Omaha, and Peru State College.

"There's a role for us all," Lemke said.

Lemke's immediate plans are to make himself and his office at Peru State known throughout southeast Nebraska's economic development community.

· Originally from West Virginia, Lemke earned his doctorate in economics from Kansas State University. He is retired from the U.S. Army Reserves, having earned the rank of lieutenant colonel.

1990s (continued)

Joe ('96) and Jennifer Froeschl ('97) Dunn of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Elizabeth "Libby" Ann, born in June. She was welcomed home by a three-year-old brother, Chaz. Joe is teaching physical education at Southeast Consolidated at Stella, Neb.

Yalana Schuette Edelman ('98) is teaching fourth grade for the St. Peter and Paul Catholic School in Seneca, Kan.

Sherlyn Ehmen ('95) is teaching PE and health at the Auburn Public Schools this year. She also is the head volleyball and girls basketball coach.

Kara Engles ('99) is teaching first and second grade at the Table Rock-Steinauer Schools in Table Rock, Neb. She is also coaching middle school volleyball.

(From Page 16)

Kimberly Lang (masters '98) and Kenneth Bunnell III were married in June in Elkhorn, Neb. She teaches in the Millard, Neb. school system.

Christopher Luebbe (attd. '93-'95) and Paulette Mihm were married in May in York, Neb.

Teri Maybee ('93) and Curt Stukenholtz were married in October in Nebraska City. She is resource developer for the Nebraska Health and Human Services office.

Shari Sanner McMahon ('89) and Lewis Cole were married in July in Grand Island, Neb. Shari is teaching fifth grade there.

Gina Meier ('94) and Robert Dolan were married in Treynor, Iowa in May. Gina is in business sales with AT & T.

Daryl Meints ('87) of Pocatello, Idaho and Cindy Brower were married in August. Daryl is employed as a wildlife biologist for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.

Anthony Mitchell ('94) and Nancy Junghaene were married in September in Omaha. He

Workers at all levels, including management, must understand that acquiring and developing new job skills will be a continuous part of their work lives. Developing that work works in the nuclear engineering division for the Omaha Public Power District.

Teri Moore (masters '99) and John Dom were married in April in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Teri is an elementary school teacher with St. John the Baptist School.

Julie Nykodym ('98) of Lincoln, Neb. and Patrick O'Brien were married in July. Julie works for Rural-Metro Medical Services of Lincoln.

Tad Nunley (attd. '85-'86) and Brenda Davis were married in July in Hastings, Neb., where he is a journeyman electrician.

Kimberly Payne ('98) and Timothy Zavala were married in Lincoln in August. She works at the Lied Center in Nebraska City.

Jessie Rhoten ('49) of Omaha and Ervin Johnson were married in August. Jessie is a retired school teacher with the Omaha School District. She taught English at the former Tech High and in Individualized Instruction Centers.

Angie Sellin ('97) and Greg Smit were married in September in Elkhorn, Neb. Angie works · for Enterprise Rent-A-Car in

"Part of what's going to make Peru State College a success is what's going to make southeast Nebraska a success," Lemke explained. "Economic' development will take a variety of forms in the future and prove to be a liberating force for southeast Nebraska." Omaha.

Terri Shanks ('99) and Jeff Wusk ('99) were married in October. Jeff is teaching Industrial Arts at the GenevaFairmont Schools, and Terri is attending Myotherapy Institute, School of Massage in Lincoln. She is also employed by Health and Human Services for the State of Nebraska. They reside in Crete, Neb.

PSC student Jill Smallfoot and Corey Collins were married in October in Lincoln, Neb.

Mike Stehlik ('90) and Jennifer Plager were married in June. They reside in Bellevue and work in the family business.

David Uldrich ('82) will marry Carol Manganaro next June. They will live in Laurel, Neb. Dave teaches, coaches and is activities director in Allen, Neb.

Chad Windeshausen ('94) and Chantel Glasshoff were married in October in Elkhorn, Neb. Chad teaches fourth graders at St. Pius the X/St. Leo Catholic School in Omaha.

Mark Zuck ('97) and Amy Yost were married in July in Grand Island, Neb. He works for Pella Windows Corp.

Jason Esser ('95) of Nebraska City has rejoined the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce's Economic Development department after spending a year with the Mills (Iowa) County Economic Development Foundation. His wife the former Kim Fey ('96) is teaching fourth grade at the Nebraska City Lourdes school.

Linda Estes ('95) is the new program director for Madison House in Norfolk, Neb. She oversees the staff and manages the assisted living marketing program. She is a former school nurse for Peru State.

Kyle Finke ('90) and wife Barbara of Auburn, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Taylor Ann, born in May. She was welcomed hoine by sister Meagan.

PSC student Bonnie Forney has received her first appointment to serve the Brock and Johnson United Methodist Churches. Bonnie became a certified lay speaker in 1994 and is presently continuing her studies at PSC with a major in history. Bonnie was originally from Oshkosh, Neb. and her family.now lives in Fremont, Neb.

Shawn ('98) and Audrey Fulton ('98) Gibbs of Stewartsville, Mo. are proud parents of a daughter, Hannah Marie, born ih August. She was welcomed home by a brother, Jacob, and a sister, Elizabeth.

Jim Gilbert ('93) and wife Stacy are proud parents of a son, Trey Michael, born in May. He was welcomed home by his brother Clay.

Angela Gleason ('93) has been chosen for the AmeriCorps Leadership program, one of only 30 selected out of 500 applicants. She is an Ashland, Neb. resident.

Tanya Goertzen ('99) is now teaching fourth grade for the Bellevue (Neb.) Christian Academy.

Brad ('94) and Rachel Rathe ('94) Goracke of Fremont, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Syndey Gene, born in May. She was welcomed home by a sister Erika.

Angela Guinn ('98) is now teaching school in Bellevue, Neb .

Shanda Hahn ('97) is the residential supervisor for South Central Developmental Services in Cozad, Neb. This past spring she received the organization's "Advocate of the Year" award.

Charles Hamilton ('93) graduated from the School of Law at Washburn University in Topeka, Kan. this spring. He is now living in Lincoln, Neb.

(continued on page 18)

Dr. Ken Lemke

PSC Class of '89 Needs Help

The Peru State College Class of 1989, quite simply, has a list of "lost alumni" that is entirely too long.

With your help we aim to shorten it significantly and to return its class members to our alumni roster.. So please forward any current, home addresses to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421-0010, or by e-mail at propst@bobcat.peru.edu, or by phone to (402) 872-2225.

Baker, Susan (Goldenstein)

Bennett, Paul A. Cellar, Russell H. Evans, Daryl T. Finley, Pamela J. Freerksen, Frances M. (Mayes)

Godinez, Janice M. Hewer, Diane J. Hinz, Jeff Hoefs, Scott D. Holdsworth, Deborah S. Holman, Davin B. Horn, Kitt ff Huwaldt, Tammy S. (Kruse)

Lanctot, Barbara E. (Hoyle) Levsky, Diana A. Maxent, Willie

McGrath, Michael J. Mittan, Kathleen (Mulcahy) Morris, Howdy L. Mowery, Kevin W. Newman, Julie R. (Ryder) Nix, James D. Notter, John C. Osmun, Mark W. Sexton, Cynthia R. Sillman, Arch R. Spencer, Jeff C. Stepanek, Alan J. Stryker, Janel R. Talbert, R. Steve Thomas, Michael A. Wilson, Kenneth E. Tom

1990s (continued)

Holly Harlan-Pretzer ('94) and husband Scott of Wakefield, Kan. are proud parents of a son, Reid Scott, born in July.

Pat Haxton ('90) is the new head football coach at Southeast of Saline (Kan.) high school in Gypsum, Kan.

Chad ('93) and Michelle Larsen ('95) Heath of Weeping Water, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Mason Drew, born in July. He was welcomed home by a brother, Collin. Chad is an Operations Manager for ITS, Inc. of Omaha and Michelle is a kindergarten teacher in Weeping Water.

Cindy Janssen Hrabik ('90) of Louisville, Neb. received a Doctor of Osteopathic medicine degree from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa this past June. She is now completing her residency at Clarkson Family Practice in Omaha.

Joy Huber ('99) of Seward, Neb. is the regional director for the Lincoln Division of the American Heart Association. Joy is responsible for a 15-county area in southeastern and central Nebraska. She does public relations and helps coordinate fund raisers for the association.

Chuck Humphrey ('93) and wife Rochelle of Bellevue, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Myranda Mae, born in July. She was welcomed home by two sisters, Matisyn and Makenzi.

Angie Haughton Hunzeker ('99) of Humboldt, Neb. is teaching special education at the Humboldt Public Schools.

Susan Hope Johnson ('99) is a research coordinator at the Creighton University School of Medicine. She plans to begin graduate school in January.

Arizona Rally Set For February 19

Peruvians living in Arizona, plus any retirees who plan to winter there, take note: catch the Peru State "winter tour" in the Phoenix area on Saturday, Feb. 19!

The planning committee is in the process of finalizing arrangements for the reunion. Invitations will be sent in just a few weeks.

PSC President Ben Johnson promises an upbeat and informative presentation. This is one meeting you won't want to miss!

If you're a winter resident of Arizona, be sure you provide us with your winter address

there so we can send you an invitation. Forward winter addresses to: Kent Propst, Peru State College, P.O. Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421, oremail him at propst@bobcat.peru.edu, or call him at (402) 872-2225.

For more information contact one of the officers: Annie Billings Berkheimer ('79), 6408 S. Pine, Tempe Az. 85283; Jerry Laflin ('67), HCR Box 204, Sells Az. 85634; George Peterson ('89), 907 E. Annette Drive, Phoenix, Az. 85022; or Alan Shipley ('66), 8647 E. Cambridge Ave., Scottsdale Az. 85257.

Expands Scholarships

The top award available at Peru State College is the Board of Trustees Scholarship, an award that carries FULL instate tuition and is renewable for up to four years. Believe it or not, every year some of these scholarships go unclaimed! BOT Scholarships are restricted to Nebraska residents who meet other criteria.

Applications for the BOT Scholarships are available

...............

through your local high school guidance counselor, or they can be downloaded from the state college website at www.nscs.edu. The application for BOT scholarships is Jan. 14.

There are literally hundreds of thousands of dollars of scholarships available from Peru State College, in addition to federal financial aid programs. Given Peru State's

From Page 1s

affordability, family income - or the lack thereofshould not be considered an obstacle to obtaining a great college education.

For a complete list of PSC and Peru State College Foundation scholarships for the 2000-2001 school year, check out the PSC World Wide Web page at www.peru.edu or call the Office of Admission at 1-800-742-4412.

Kristine Meeske Kapustka ('94) was featured last spring in the Lincoln (Neb.) Journal Star for her ongoing theatrical career which began as a Peru State sophomore. The actress has done. over 200 melodramas at the theater at Mahoney State Park in Nebraska.

Darrin Jones ('97) has joined the Pottawattamie (Iowa) County Conservation Board as assistant park ranger and lodge manager at its Hitchcock Nature Area. He had been working for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.

Louis Keim ('99) is teaching science in grades 10-12 at the Tecumseh High School. He is_also the wrestling coach.

Andy Kelsay ('99) is teaching Social Studies at Southeast Consolidated at Stella, Neb.

Jim Kleine ('91) and wife Carole of Elwood, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Katherine Elizabeth, born in June. Jim is a teacher and coach in the Elwood Public Schools.

Scott Kohout ('93) and wife Lisa of Martell, Neb. are proud parents of a son born in August.

Tricia Boeck Kruse ('96) is teaching seventh and eighth grade, and twelfth grade, English and Speech for the Nemaha Valley (Neb.) public schools. She also directs their one-act play production and is speech team coach.

Brett ('94) and Toni Adam ('94) Landenberger are proud parents of a son born in June. They are Plymouth, Neb. residents.

(continued on page 19)

1990s (continued)

Chuck Lanning ('99) is now living in Sarah, Miss. and is a security officer at the Badour Center there.

Jim ('88) and Ann LaHood ('89) Larsen of Beatrice are proud parents of a son, Maximillian Donald, born in June.

Allison Lewellen (attd. '87-'91) of Omaha was promoted to a Second Level Marketing Executive on the JC Penney Team for SITEL Corporation. Allison has been with SITEL since November of 1995. She still enjoys cosmetology as a hobby, but travels a lot with her full time job.

A Theatrical Mystery

Rather than a "whodunit," we ran this "whoisit" drama photo as our "Mystery Picture" in the last issue. And to our surprise, only one alum bothered to take a shot at identifying the perpetrators! Positively identified were (from left) Dr. Royal Eckert, Tim Delonge, ?, Kathy Mulcahy, ?, Pam Wertz-Whitworth, Roger Tupper, and Dr. Chet Harper.

Theatrical Mystery Bombs; Trio Bo'rn to Run?

If our last Mystery Picture was a Broadway play, it'd have closed after the first night.

It's a mystery to us why only one Peru Stater reader chose to take a shot at identifying the theatrical group pictured in the summer edition of The Peru Stater.

Rut we do thank Leslie Thomas Bratrsovsky ('88) of Auburn, Neb., who was able to put names to all but two of the faces. They include, of course, Professor Emeritus of Speech and Theatre Dr. Royal Eckert (left) and Professor of Speech and Theatre Dr. Chet Harper (right), both of whom are working hard to resurrect the college drama program after an hiatus of several years.

Leslie couldn't put a name to the first two in the front row but identified the one standing next to Dr. Harper as Roger Tupper. In the back row it's Tim DeJ onge, Kathleen Mulcahy, and Pam WertzWhitworth.

Thanks, Leslie!

On to this edition's mystery. These three lads were track and field participants at Peru State in bygone times. We know who they are, but the question is, do you?

If you can provide an ID, please forward the information to: Kent Propst, c/o "Mystery

Picture," Peru State College, PO Box 10, Peru, Neb. 68421, or call (402) 872-2225,

or e-mail him at: propst@bobcat.peru.edu

Jason Libal ('95) was the assistant coach for the Southeast Nebraska All-Star boys basketball game held in Beatrice, Neb. in June., Jason was the basketball coach at Southeast Consolidated at Stella last year and is now coaching at Wahoo, Neb.

Monta A. Wiltse Mackey ('98) is a protection and safety worker for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services in Auburn, Neb.

Erin Mahlberg ('98) is now teaching special needs students at Woodbine, Iowa.

Alex ('95) and Tracy Cochran ('97) Malcolm are proud parents of son Beau Alexander, born in July. They are Tabor, Iowa residents. ·

Matt Maxwell ('99) is the new high school social studies teacher and head boys basketball coach and assistant junior high football coach at Cambridge, Neb.

Candy McArdle ('99) is a third grade substitute teacher at Old Bridge Elementary in Woodbridge, Va. '

Sean ('98) and Susan Picray ('98) McLaughlin are keeping busy in the Des Moines, Iowa area. Sean works for Dilley Manufacturing and part-time for the Des Moines Menace soccer team and the Des Moine Dragons pro basketball team. Susan is substitute teaching in Des Moines and Ankeny and also works with the Des Moines Dragons.

Timothy Moore ('98) is a project engineer for the Trane Co. in Omaha.

Cindy Walla Mowery ('92) has been promoted to an officer in the Norwest Bank Nebraska's treasury management division in Omaha. Mowery, who is vice president of the Midwest Treasury Management Association, joined N orwest in 1994.

Debra Morris Neely ('93) is Director of Student Development at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. She advises the college's Greek system, yearbook, minority unity council, and develops leadership programs for MSU's student body.

Celeste Nolte ('99) is attending medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she is enrolled in the Surgical Physician's Assistant program.

Marlene Oaks ('96) and husband Doyle of Shubert, Neb. are proud parents of twin daughters, Addie Elizabeth and Emma Irene, born in July. They were welcomed home by two-year-old twin sisters, Cecilia and Dariann and a 17-yearold sister, Randi.

Jen Olsen ('98) is now the assistant manager at Schlotzsky's Deli in Salina, Kan.

State was never the same after this trio arrived on the scene. Can you identify these Jerry Stemper-coached thinclads?

Hall of Farner Bo Cowel Dies

Peru .State College Hall of Farner B.C. "Bo" Cowel passed away in October in Fort Collins, Colo. He was 87.

The popular and gregarious Cowel, an outstanding football player and track athlete before his graduation from Peru State in 1934, retired from Colorado State University in 1972.

He was an assistant coach at CSU, then created their intramural sports program. Cowel also both taught and developed some of CSU's coaching and physical education classes.

Bo&Edna

There were few things Bo Cowel enjoyed more than a good social event. Cowel, a PSC Hall of Famer who passed away in October, was on hand last August for the college's annual Rocky Mountain Alumni Reunion and enjoyed a good visit with his PSC classmate Edna Maystrick Fitch ('34) of

Frieda Rowoldt

Remembered

Longtime Peru State College business professor

Frieda Rowoldt, one of the college's best-loved educators, passed away in Lincoln, Neb. in June. She was 93.

Miss Rowoldt was a native of New York and taught at a number of elementary, junior high and senior high schools in Pennsylvania and in Nebraska before joining the PSC faculty in 1952.

She remained with Peru State until her retirement in 1970. Miss Rowoldt retained a vital interest in Peru State College until her passing and was active in PSC's Lincoln Alumni Association.

Fond of Frieda

Colorado State's intramural sports field was dedicated as "Bo Cowel Field" a few years ago. He was inducted into CSU's Hall of Fame last year. Cowel was active in Peru State's Rocky Mountain Alumni Association. He is survived by his wife Vera, four sons and one daughter.

1990s (continued)

Cari Ortmeier ('97) is teaching fourth grade at Blessed Sacrament schools in the Omaha area.

Denise Pahl ('99) of Diller, Neb. is teaching special education at Wymore Southern High School.

Steve Pelle ('99) is working in Mobile, Ala. for a hockey team as its director of group sales.

Lisa Peters ('99) of Tecumseh, Neb. will be teaching the first and second grade classes at St. Andrew's School in Tecumseh upon completion of her student teaching at the Humboldt Public Schools this fall. In addition to her teaching duties Lisa will also help with the school's computer system and the Christmas and spring programs. In her spare time, Lisa is taking classes to complete her special education degree.

Nick Preston ('91) is the new park officer for Manteno Park near Dunlap, Iowa.

Korey Reiman ('95) received his degree from the University of Nebraska College of Law in May. He is employed by the firm of Berry-Kelley-Hanson in Lincoln, Neb.

Holly Waring Rieschick ('94) and husband Ryan of Falls City, Neb. are proud parents of a daughter, Meg Alexandra, born in July. She was welcomed home by a sister, Maggy.

Melissa Rieschick ('99) is a child protective services specialist for the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services.

Christy Long Rikli ('93) and husband Tom of Red Wing, Minn. are proud parents of a daughter, Alexa Noelle, born in September.

Tom Riley ('97) is now a Deputy Sheriff for Sarpy County in Nebraska.

Teresa Frye Rischling ('92) is teaching health and physical education in the David City (Neb.) Aquinas and St. Mary's schools. She is assistant varsity girl's basketball coach, too.

Frieda Rowoldt (left) remained popular with her former students long after her retirement from PSC nearly 30 years ago. In this 1995 Homecoming photo, Frieda is pictured with Charlotte Hershberger

Nedrow ('68) of Waverly, Neb. (Photo

Helen Smith Barber (attd. summer '29) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in July.

Lela Bass ('44) of Atlantic, Iowa passed away in May.

Marjorie Ruth Dashner Bass ('35) of Malvern, Iowa passed away in July.

Louis Callahan ('36) of Dayton, Ohio passed away in April.

Ken Christensen ('78) of Guthrie Center, Iowa passed away in July.

Evelyn Gilbert Christy ('31) of Brock, Neb. passed away in June. She taught school for a short time, and gave piano lessons throughout her life. She was very active in community organizations. Family members include Margaret Piper (attd. '54) of Brock, Neb. and Harold Christy ('56) of Las Vegas, Nev.

James E. Clark ('69) passed away in July. He had been living in Roswell, N.M. He spent most of his career working for the U.S.

Department of Agriculture.

Lula Estep Clegg ('29) passed away in July in Gothenburg, Neb. She taught school in Haigler, Neb.

Joan Vertiska Collins ('55) of Stella, Neb. passed away in August. She was a school teacher for over 30 years and retired from the Auburn School system as their elementary music teacher. Her son, Mark Fankhauser ('84) lives in Omaha.

(Continued on Page 21)

Maggie Rother ('99) is now teaching high school science for the Norris (Neb.) Public Schools.

Cyndee Ruegge ('98) of Pawnee City, Neb. has been appointed an Administrative Officer with the Farmers Bank of Cook in Cook, Neb.

Sara Santo ('98) is a youth counselor for the Clarinda (Iowa) Academy.

John Sayer ('93) is now teaching chemistry and physics at the Schuyler (Neb.) CentrafHigh School. He taught previously in Auburn, Neb. and in Sabetha, Kan.

Todd Shanks ('97) of Salina, Kan. passed the CPA examination this summer. Todd is employed by Kennedy and Coe, LLC, Certified Public Accountants as a staff accountant.

Susan Slama ('98) is a Life Skills Trainer with Region V Services in Lincoln, Neb.

(continued on page 21)

Arvada, Colo.

(Photo by Kent Propst)

by Kent Propst)

(From Page 20)

Carol Stewart Siefken · Curnes ('70) of Galena, Mo. passed away in July. She was co-owner of Kimberling Hills Real Estate where she worked as a secretary. Her husband was Larry Curnes ('62).

Charmian Bloom Davies ('92) of Falls City, Neb. passed· away in October. She taught for awhile in the Falls City Public Schools, and was very active in local civic and church activities.

Lowell Decker ('32) of Silver Springs, Md. passed away in August 1998. He was a high school teacher at Brady, Neb. and Rapid City, S. D., and also taught at Vermillion S. D. He retired from the U.S. Post Office in Washington D.C.

Mildred Sprague Decker ('36) of Columbus, Ohio passed away in July.

Gerald Fichter ('39) of Shenandoah, Iowa passed away in May. He taught business for awhile and also worked for Douglas Aircraft and for United Air Lines.

Carrie Watton Fisher ('68) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in September. Carrie taught in several rural and elementary schools in Richardson County and retired after 35 years of teaching.

Joey Foster (attd. '97-'98) of St. Paul, Neb. passed away in September. ·

Kathryn Einung Gamlin ('30) of Lombard, Ill. passed away in March. She taught school for a short time and later was an accountant for Sears, Roebuck & Co. for 22 years.

Wendell Handley ('43) of Lead, S.D. passed away in July. The former Bobcat football star was a highly-regarded teacher, coach and school administrator in Hot Springs and Lead for 38 years. His wife is the former Verna Rogers ('45).

Lillian Chantry Haning ('53) of O'Fallan, Ill. passed away in June.

Word has been received of the death of Mildred Ferguson Hilton ('56) of Atascadero, Calif. in July of 1998.

Lillian Dahlke Jacobitz ('67) of Stella, Neb. passed away in July. She was a retired teacher and taught elementary grades at Southeast Consolidated for many years.

Robert Jewell ('40) of Tecumseh, Neb. passed away in August. He was an officer of the Johnson County bank in Tecumseh. for 35 years, and was active in community organizations.

Betty Enselman Jorgensen (attd. '42) passed away in June. She had been a resident of Arlington, Neb.

Berniece Palmer Juhl ('40) of Walnut, Iowa passed away in September.

Marcella .Karpisek ('38) of Wilber, Neb. passed away in August. She taught school for a short time.

Velma Fulton Kief ('75) of Plattsmouth, Neb., a retired teacher, passed away in October.

Maxine Reagan Kielsmeier ('30) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in May. She was a retired teacher and nurse. She began her career at Panama, Neb. where she taught for five years before entering nurse's training. After many years as a nurse she returned to teaching and taught math and psychology in the Salem and Falls City Public Schools for 11 years.

Myrtle Law Knapp ('27) of Vermillion, S.D. passed away in August. She was a retired school teacher and taught in schools in eastern Nebraska as well as South Dakota

Louise Hoefer Kuhlmann (attd. late '20s) passed away in September in Deshler, Neb.

Lucille Cummins Lechliter (attd. summers '33-'J4) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in July. She taught in rural schools for a short time, and also worked at the Auburn Public Library for 15 years.

Word has been received of the death of Erma Leighton ('63) of Cherokee Village, Ark.

Elma Taney Lingle (attd. '26-'27) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in August. She was a rural school teacher in Otoe County (Neb.) and later

worked at Miller & Paine in Lincoln.

Helen Duey Lowery (cert. '35) of Plattsmouth, Neb. passed away in July. She was active as a 4-H leader and Extension member while living at Dunbar, Neb. She also worked at Pendelton in Nebraska City before moving to Lincoln where she was an employee of Clark Jeary Manor and former owner of Lowrey Power Equipment, both in Lincoln, Neb.

Helen James Madsen ('33) of Nebraska City passed away in

Thomas J. Majors ('39) of Ericson, Neb. passed away in October. He taught, worked for a sporting goods company, served in the U.S. Air Force, was a contractor, and raised cattle.

Lyle Meier ('50) of Chico, Calif. passed away in October. The former Bobcat basketball player on some of PSC's finest teams was a retired Professor of Mathematics at Chico State University for 30 years.

Ruth Murray Meyer (attd. '23) passed away in Geneva, Neb. in September.

Lance Orton (attd. '84-'85) passed away in October in Topeka, Kan.

Ruth Wilson Osborne ('40) of Granbury, Texas passed away in June.

Lori Brown Peterson ('84) of Fairbury, Neb. passed away in July. She was a school teacher in the Fairbury School system. Her parents are Larry (masters '91) and Joan Brown, former staff members at PSC. A sister, Shannon Hansen ('91) lives in Fremont and brother Brad ('87) in Gretna.

Orma Sailors Ramer (attd. '49-'51) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in September.

Robert Ramge (attd. '65' 68) of Plattsmouth, Neb. passed away in July. He was a dairy farmer and later operated a school bus line in Bellevue and the Ramge Trailer Court near Plattsmouth.

Irene Schreiter Reese ('30) of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in September. She was a retired teacher.

(Continued on Page 24)

1990s (continued)

Jon ('95) and Kari Waldron ('97) Stallbaumer are proud parents of son Chase Austin, born last March. Kari teaches K-5 special education at Midway Elementary School and Jon is a case manager at Kanza Mental Health Center and they live in Hiawatha, Kan.

Mike ('92) and Juliane Sheppard ('93) Starner of Council Bluffs, Iowa are proud parents of daughter Josephine Kay, born this past September. Brothers Layne and Clayton welcomed her home.

Courtney Stewart ('98) is teaching kindergarten at Children's World Private Kindergarten in Tucson, Ariz.

Jamie Stinson ('98) is teaching elementary physical education classes in the Liberty Schools in Liberty, Mo.

Dowin Dandy Thiessen ('98) of Mayetta, Kan. is teaching third grade in Hoyt, Kan. this year.

Charles J. Toy ('98) is working for the U.S. Post Office in Omaha as a flat sorter machine operator.

Leo Trimmer ('98) is teaching computer science for the Iowa Western Community College campus in Clarinda this year.

Wendy Oliver Vice ('96) of Auburn, Neb. is a teacher aide at the Peru Elementary School.

Kim ('90) and Kris Kubert ('94) Vrtiska of Tecumseh, Neb. are proud parents of a son, Rudy Foale, born in July.

Chuck Wake ('96) and his wife Julie are proud parents of son Charlton Craig, born this past June. They live in Silver City, Iowa.

Andrea Walker ('98) is teaching elementary school art for the Plattsmouth, Neb. community schools.

Robert J. Waltos, Jr. ('91) has been appointed general agent of Northwestern Mutual in Orange County, California. Waltos joined Northwestern in 1983 as a college agent in Lincoln, Neb. He became assistant regional director in the home office in Milwaukee, Wis. in 1991. From 1996 to 1998 he was director of agency recruitment and in 1998 was named managing director in the Life Marketing department.

Jason Werner ('96) recently moved to Lowell, Mass. where he is a counselor advocate with Short Stop, Inc. He works for Social Services and determines placement for court referred use.

Debra Wherry ('95) of Tecumseh, Neb. is the vocal music teacher in the Auburn Public Schools.

Tait Wharlow ('99) is teaching algebra, geometry, applied math and calculus for the Norfolk (Neb.) Catholic schools.

Cynthia Wingert ('97) is teaching high school math at Coon Rapids-Bayard Junior-Senior High in Coon Rapids, Iowa. She also is the flag corps and winter guard coordinator and yearbook advisor.

Kellie Johnson Workman ('94) and her husband Doug are proud parents of their third daughter, Chloe Louise, born in October. They live in Humboldt, Neb.

Men's Hoop Squad Full of Young Veterans

It isn't often a team with so much experience is so young. This season's Peru State basketball squad looks to use last year's experiences to notch wins and hopefully reach the national tournament.

Almost everyone returns from last year's 6-26 squad which made it to the regional finals. Coach John Gibbs said advancing to the regional finals a year ago was a key to this year's squad.

"We wanted to get to the finals so the players had the experience of playing in a big game when they were young," he said.

And they were young. Seven of 12 players on the roster were listed as freshman. Only two upperclassmen had any college playing experience.

Nearly the whole team does this season. Only five new players are on the squad this season. Two will likely redshirt."

Right now we only have three players learning our system. Last year we had to spend most of the year putting in our playbook," Gibbs said.

He is optimistic with all five starters returning this season. "We still are basically a young team but we will be much better. Going into the year it is tough to predict how many games we will win because we haven't seen the competition. I think we are a better team and hopefully that translates into more wins."

But with everyone returning · from a year ago, Gibbs is confident this group is headed back to the top. They are deep at every position, Gibbs said.

Sophomore Corneal Conn Scamman (Rock Port, Mo.) (Kansas City, Mo.) returns as a joined the squad mid-season point guard. He averaged 4.9 last year and led the Cats with points, 2.6 rebounds and 3.4 10.4 points a contest. Gibbs assists as a rookie. "Corneal said Scamman brings more has come back this year a bet- than his scoring ability to the ter shooter and more comfort- floor. "Cory is a good shooter able running our offense. He is and a very smart player." a great defensive player."

Sophomore B.J. Winton

Junior David Reed (Papillion) and junior John (Lawrence, Kan.) transferred Wafel (Kennesburg, Colo.) from Neosho County also return to the small forCommunity College and will ward position. Winton averplay both point and off-guard aged 9.0 points as a rookie and for the Bobcats'. Gibbs has his athleticism is an asset, been impressed with Reed's Gibbs said. grasp of the Bobcat system Freshman Nick Hyde (Peru) this fall. will redshirt this season. Gibbs

Freshman Brian Lemerond believes Hyde's athletic ability (Falls City) will make an will be beneficial in the future. impact in his first year at the Many big men return and college level, according to should give the Bobcats a Gibbs. "Before his career is boost inside. through he will be a fine play- Sophomore Steve er for us. He does everything VanDerKamp (Auburn) also well. If he continues to returns. He averaged 3.5 progress, he has the potential points and 3.1 rebounds his to be one of the best players in rook campaign. Gibbs said school history." VanDerKamp is the best pass-

Freshman Erick Martinez ing big man on the squad. (Dawson) will redshirt this Senior Josh Brandt season. Gibbs is excited what (Council Bluffs, Iowa) returns Martinez will bring in the to the Bobcat program after future. sitting out last season. He

Junior Neil Hayhurst played with an injured ankle (Meriden, Kan.) returns to the throughout most of his junior off-guard position. He started season. He will play both the 26 of 29 games and averaged big forward and center posi6.8 points and 2.0 rebounds a tions. year ago. Gibbs said Hayhurst Three centers also return. shoots the ball well. "He is an Senior Koe Jones (Dallas, excellent leader and has been Texas), junior Dan Stoakes improving on his defense." (Bellevue) and sophomore

Sophomore Scott Gibbs Dan Stevens (Plattsmouth) (Peru) also returns to the off- provide the Cats with experiguard position. Last year · ence and strength on the inside Gibbs averaged 1.3 points off .Jones set a school record by the bench but was counted on making 35 straight free throws for his defense. in the post-season last year.

Three small forwards return Gibbs said Jones, the strongest for the Bobcats. Senior Cory player he has ever coached, is

Tough Schedule Hinders Football Success

The Peru State football squad stumbled this fall after facing many salty opponents.The Bobcats were 3-5 heading into the final two games of the season. All five losses were to teams ranked in the NAIA top 25 as the 'Cats faced perhaps the toughest schedule in the NAIA

Sophomore Chad Beckman (Stromsburg) has been among the nation's leaders in punting. He averaged 41.7 yards per punt through the first seven games.

The Bobcats also had one of the best passing defense in the country. Opponents gained only 144 yards per game through the air in the first seven contests.

Senior wide Todd Liberty (Falls City) continued to climb the all-time receiving charts for the squad, catching passes from injury-plagued senior Wes Haveman (Stella) and from promising sophomore Tommy Aldana (Nebraska City).

The Bobcats posted wins over Dana College, Panhandle (Okla.) State University, and Dakota Wesleyan (S.D.). Doane, Valley City (N.D.), Huron (S.D.), and unbeaten Hastings and Northwest Oklahoma State have posted wins over the 'Cats.

The latter two squads are expected to be strong contenders for the NAIA national title.

A full season recap will appear in the Spring edition of the Peru Stater.

Young Veterans

Many seasoned veterans return this season for the Bobcat men's basketball squad. Sophomore Corneal Conn (#14) should be one of the team leaders as he returns to the point guard position this winter.

by Kent Propst) still learning the game and should take advantage of both last year's experience and his size this season.

Knowing a trip to the national tournament will be tough this year being an independent, Gibbs feels the Cats have the potential to once again be one of the best small college teams in the state.

"One of the biggest goals

r.·ea111•1j•1:oc··

for us this year is to bring back Bobcat tradition," Gibbs said. "We want to regain our place as one of the top teams in Nebraska. We want to get back to the top.

"We have been disappointed because recently we have been good for a couple seasons and struggled for a year. We need to get back to consistently being a tough team."

The registration should in the mail in 2000•. In the Jlleantime, ca'n be ·

or to• $ports Director Cbtjs 402 872'-2441). · ·

(Photo

Women Cagers Learn New Style; Look to Continue Winning Tradition

by Cord Cos/or, Sports Information Intern

A new coach. A new style. But this year's Peru State women's basketball squad hopes to carry their winning tradition into the next century.

Under the leadership of first-year coach Tab Jefferson, the Bobcats look to continue their recent success and improve upon last years 19-10 record.

Using a well rounded attack anchored by experience and molded by Jefferson's style, the Bobcats are hopeful their combination of quickness and size may be the ticket they need to enter the National Tournament.

"Our expectations are high. With Peru winning 19 games

last year everyone expects us to win over 20 games. But this is a whole new year. The players had learn a whole new playbook," Jefferson said.

He believes the learning process this fall has been aided by the Bobcats' attitude, work ethic, discipline, and chemistry.

"It will take some getting used to my style and philosophy," he said. "I care about the players and they are accepting my ways of doing things. I am not saying my way is the right way but it may be different from what they are used to."

Using an uptempo sty le of game, Jefferson says the Bobcats are well-suited for the press, fast-break offense, and player-to-player defense he

Volleyball Season 'Downer'

Many college volleyball teams would be thrilled with a solid winning record heading into the final part of the '99 campaign. Not the Peru State

Digit

Volleyball standout ReeAnna Morgan (#7), ajuniorfrom Lincoln, Neb. digs the ball while teammates Tracy Mackovicka (#11, senior from Lincoln) and Janelle Findlay (#13, sophomore from Stella, Neb.) await the result. The team posted an 18-12 mark. (Photo by Elizabeth Olsen)

squad.

The Bobcats' post-season . chances were very slim with three matches remaining in the final week of the season.

Coach Todd Jensen said four key losses held the Bobcats from post-season potential late in the year.

"We had a great group of players. We had a great start of the season with the trip to Hawaii," when the 'Cats faced some of the toughest smallcollege programs in the nation.

"Although we have a 17-10 record now, the coaching staff and players would probably characterize this season as a downer at this point."

That's the result of high expectations and a talented lineup with good experience. And though the 'Cats do lose four seniors - Heather Schroeder (Liberty), Candy Kasi (Staplehurst), Julie Bixler (Raytown, Mo.) and Tracy Mackovicka (Lincoln) - Jensen played numerous younger players during the season.Thus the cupboard for the 2000 season looks wellstocked.

has implemented. He hopes to use eight to ten players throughout the season.

"We can go small and quick or go big and strong. We have a few players who can help us out both inside and outside," Jefferson said.

The Bobcats have many seasoned guards this season.

Senior guard DeeAnn Richardson (Tecumseh) is strong in all facets of her game, Jefferson said. Last season she contributed 11.9 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.

"DeeAnn is a taller guard which should cause some mismatch problems for the oppo. sition," Jefferson said.

Senior guard Marcy Krolikowski (Loup City) adds intensity, quickness, and experience to the lineup and should be a major contributor this season, Jefferson said. Senior Angela Stiens (Ravenwood, Mo.) will play both outside and inside for the Cats. "Angela is a guard that can post up to get mismatch prob1ems. She shoots the ball extremely well," Jefferson said.

Junior Alicia Millard (Lincoln) has been a two-year starter at the point guard position for the Bobcats. After two season she has 256 assists, the fifth-best career mark in school history. She is only 110 off Denise Cave's (1989) school record. Junior Lexi Ehlers (Superior) averaged 4.3 points and 2.6 rebounds a season ago. Jefferson said her quickness and excellent shooting touch will be her biggest assets this season.

Two newcomers should also contribute in the backcourt for the Cats this season. Junior Tiffany Volk (Battle Creek) redshirted at the University of Nebraska-Omaha last season. She in an excellent shooter with ball handling skills, Jefferson said. Another freshman, Brooke Placke (Grand Island), will also rotate into

the Bobcat lineup. Jefferson said her shooting and ball handling abilities along with her quickness are strong qualities for a freshman.

The Bobcats also have a mix of veterans and newcomers in the post. ·

Senior Brandi Buck (Murdock) will continue to be a role player for the Bobcats. Jefferson said she has good instincts around the basket.

Juniors Tammi Christensen (Harlan, Iowa) and Sarah Dorrel (Bolckow, Mo.) are the returning threats on the inside for the Bobcats.

"Tammi is an all-around athlete. She can whatever is asked of her. Sarah is a strong post player who runs the floor well," Jefferson said.

Two newcomers should also contribute this season.

Sophomore Tonya Volk (Battle Creek) also transferred from the University of Nebraska-Omaha. Jefferson is pleased with positive attitude and looks forward to seeing her everyday in practice after volleyball season concludes. Freshman J aci Ide us (Beatrice) has picked up the system quickly, Jefferson said. "She has adjusted the college game well. She plays her heart out."

Jefferson knows every game matters this season. The Bobcats will have to gain an at-large bid into the national tournament with the new regional alignment implemented by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

"We are expecting to win every game we play to hopefully gain a spot into the National Tournament," Jefferson said. "We feel we have to win over 20 games to have a chance."

But wins are only part of the game. We are trying to instill on our players some character. They may think· we are hard on them but I am trying to give

them discipline they can take with them after basketball and the college days are over."

Jefferson 'Tabbed' Women's BB Coach

Peru· State College welcomed Tab Jefferson to campus in early September, naming him the head women's basketball coach. Prior to coming to Peru State, Jefferson was the head women's basketball coach at Shelton State Community College (Ala.). Interim Athletics Director Wayne Davidson said Jefferson brings a sound knowledge of the game to Peru State. "He has an understanding of what it takes to recruit the quality players needed for a successful program."

Coach Jefferson has the experience of winning on both the high school and college level. He has won three Alabama junior college state titles and one Alabama High School state championship. Jefferson has also been part of two teams which reached the National Junior College tournament, both teams finishing in the NJCAA "Sweet 16."

Jefferson's wife is Nikka and they reside in Auburn.

Peru State Spring Sports Optimistic After Fall Ball

After successful fall camps there seems to be a lot of optimism among the Peru State softball and baseball squads entering the 2000 season.

Softball coach Mark Mathews said he was able to evaluate this year's squad. "This fall demonstrated some areas needing improvement but also showed us areas we are strong."

He said the infield looks to be the Bobcats' strongest area. "We are very solid all the way around the infield," Mathews said.

The pitching staff is also solid,

according to Mathews. "This could be the best pitching staff since I have been here. We have five pitchers who threw very well."

Mathews also said the only weak links this fall was the outfield and catching depth. "We just need to find the right combinations in the outfield. Our catching experience is also a concern."

A challenging schedule awaits the Bobcat softball squad. 'We are very optimistic for another winning record. We have a very difficult schedule but

hopefully it will challenge our team to play at their highest level consistently."

Baseball prospects

The Bobcat baseball squad is also optimistic after a successful fall campaign. Baseball coach Mark Bayliss was pleased with the Bobcats' play.

"We had a good group of players returning. With the transfers and freshman we added to the squad this fall we have some good talent," Bayliss said.

Bayliss said the coaching staff feels comfortable heading into the spring.

"There are a few positions up in the air but we have depth at about every position."

The biggest improvement entering next spring is the Bobcat pitching staff. "Now we have seven or eight quality pitchers available," Bayliss said.

The Bobcats are looking to continue to rise. The Bobcats registered a 20-38 season a year ago. "We are looking to continue on our success. This season we are looking hoping to win over 30 games and advance to the regional tournament."

Tab Jefferson

(From Page 21)

Deloris Hill Rieke ('33) of Elmwood, Neb. passed away in June. She was a retired teacher.

Ruth Caldwell Ritchie ('26) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in July. She taught school for a short time in Iowa and Nebraska, was active in her church and taught piano lessons for 40 years. She and her husband, the late A.B. Ritchie ('27) were active supporters of PSC and were instrumental in providing funding for the Al Wheeler Activity Center.

Iva Hansen Roby ('47) of Talmage, Neb. passed away in June. She was a former school teacher, and also worked in Social Services in Omaha. She retired from Child Protective Services in Pima County (Ariz) in. 1981.

Word has been received of the death of Marcia Johnson Crum Rose ('68) of Riverton, Iowa.

Irene Schomerus ('58) of Nebraska passed away 3n She was a retired

teacher from the Nebraska School for the Visually Handicapped.

Delores Schneider (attd. passed away in Lincoln, Neb. in May. She was retired from the University of Nebraska Division of Continuing Education.

Emma Fisher Schock ('68) of Falls City, Neb. passed away in July. She taught school in the Falls City School system and later was employed by DoIT Funeral Home. She was active in many community organizations.

Word has been received of the death of Lois Workman Jenkins-Shearon ('56).

Crista Durst Smith (certificate '34) of Portland, Ore. passed away in August. She was a substitute elementary school teacher for the Portland Public Schools from the early 1960's until retiring in 1983.

Word has been received of the death of Gladys Sears Sopher ('30) of Owensboro, Ky. in

1 ('40) of Rock Port, Mo.

Kathryn Staack ('72) of Orleans, La. passed away in August. She owned a bakery for over 20 years.

Margaret Iverson Steiner ('46) passed away in September. She had been living in Sauk City, Wis.

Robert Swinney ('61} of Blue Springs, Mo. passed away in October. He was a warehouse manager for the Lipton Tea Company until his retirement in 1993.

Hiroshi "Harry" Tabata, a business professor for Peru State since 1989, passed away in July.

Gladys Degenhardt Templin ('26) passed away in September in Hebron, Neb.

Shari Vaughn Teten {'85) of Auburn, Neb. passed away in June. She was formerly employed by the Physical Plant at PSC, and had more recently worked as a nuclear instructor at Cooper Nuclear Station at Brownville, Neb.

Nellie Kalberg Vanderford ('28) of Sabetha, 'Kan. passed away in May. Family members include Bonnie Robbins ('63) of Lincoln, Barbara McCoy ('64) of Forest City, Iowa and John ('69) of Kansas City, Kan.

Ron Vrba ('55) of Convent Station, N.J. passed away in October. He created the state slogan "New Jersey And YouPerfect Together," and was elected to the state's Advertising Hall of Fame 10 years ago. Survivors include his wife the former Joan Reimers ('54).

Claire Codington Warman ('29) of Newark, Calif. passed away in July.

Inez Pettinger Warren ('34) of Syracuse, Neb. passed away in May. She was a retired elementary school teacher.

Gary W. Weiss ('60) of Beatrice, Neb. passed away in August. He retired from Old Home Bread after 23 years as a truck driver.

Winifred Smith Wignall (certificate '35) of Wymore, Neb. passed away in May.

The Rev. Dr. Al Winseman, Jr. ('57) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in September. He was a retired United Methodist minister and had served churches in both Omaha and Lincoln. He began his career as a teacher, principal and coach at Dunbar, Neb. and was later on the faculty at Southeast Community College in Milford, Neb. and Nebraska Wesleyan University in Lincoln. He and his wife the former Nancy Taggart ('57) have been very involved in PSC alumni affairs.

Olin Witt ('34) of Lincoln, Neb. passed away in June. He retired as a major with the State Safety Patrol in 1971. ·Before joining the Safety Patrol, he taught in a rural school in Otoe County and in the junior high school in Syracuse, Neb. from 1934 to 1937. In 1939 and 1940 he taught the first high school driver education courses in Nebraska in the Omaha school system. His wife is the former Inez Peterson ('32).

Gladys Updike June. He was a teacher.

Earl Whipple ('38) of Word the death been received of Pickens, S.C. away in

Juanita A. Young (attd. '18'19) of Nebraska City, Neb. passed away in September.